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[New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz Unimog, the superhero villain of the off-road world that's just waiting to make the jump to Transformer, has been completely upgraded for its new generation. There are ten models, expanding the range and getting new designations across the traditional all-terrain series and the implement-carrier series. Panoramic cabins get more visibility, multifunction steering wheels and better dash clusters, improved HVAC and a three-mode central tire inflation system. Outside, there are new items like LED headlights and daytime running lamps in the bumper, roof-mounted windshield wipers and a front-camera monitor for the implement carrier.

The new engine lineup is compliant with Euro VI, featuring four- and six-cylinder BlueEfficiency engines putting out anywhere from 156 horsepower to 354 hp. Powerplant placement has also been tweaked, the chassis members getting a revised curve to place the engine a bit further back and lower, maintaining off-road clearance and lowering the Unimog's center of gravity. The new location of the engine means the cabin has more room, and the wheelbase is shorter. Combined with a higher turning angle, the Unimog has a smaller turning radius than before.

The implement carrier gets what's called a "synergistic traveling drive," the bonus being that drivers don't need to stop in order to use an attachment - a hydrostatic transmission works with the regular manual transmission at up to 31 kilometers per hour for seamless switching.

Those are just a tiny number of the changes in the new monsters from Mercedes-Benz. You can find out enough about them in the two videos and three press releases below to become a certified dealer.

Continue reading New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]

New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes-benz unimogmercedes unimogmercedes-benzmercedes-benz unimogtruckSat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/20549771/article-detail.xml 20549771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog.jpg <![CDATA[Who sold the most small/midsize pickups in 2012? <i>PickupTrucks.com</i> investigates that, too]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

2013 Toyota Tacoma - front three-quarter view, on mountain

PickupTrucks.com has taken another look at the sales of its favorite vehicle bodystyle as part of an ongoing series. According to registration data from R.L. Polk, the Toyota Tacoma easily took the crown as America's best-selling mid-sized pickup, with 133,477 units rolling into new homes in 2012. For comparison, the second-place Nissan Frontier only saw 50,566 registrations.

We feel compelled to point out that before Ford pulled the plug on its ancient Ranger, the company was moving some 75,000 units per year. That number had shriveled to 15,662 by 2012, which was still enough to surpass the Honda Ridgeline. Interestingly enough, one person brought home a brand-new Hummer H3T as well. But mid-sized trucks represent only a fraction of total pickup sales. Dealers sold a total of 241,471 midsizers last year compared to 988,326 half-tons.

That segment was dominated by General Motors with 533,814 sales followed by Ford at 478,204. Ram Trucks trailed behind in third with 241,204 units with Toyota close behind at 229,769. Nissan, meanwhile, remains a distant fifth. Head over to PickupTrucks.com for a closer look at the breakdown in each segment.

Who sold the most small/midsize pickups in 2012? PickupTrucks.com investigates that, too originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota tacomageneral motorsgmpickup salespickup truck salespickupstacomatoyotatruckWed, 27 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20480921/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/20480921/article-detail.xml 20480921 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/toyota-tacoma-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/toyota-tacoma-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Toyota Tundra appears with revised styling, same mechanicals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-toyota-tundra-chicago-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-toyota-tundra-chicago-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-toyota-tundra-chicago-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Toyota Tundra Platinum

Toyota has pulled the curtain back on its 2014 Tundra, showing a truck that has gotten its most significant refresh since its launch as a 2007 model. For better or worse, however, the changes that Toyota has made to the fullsize pickup are mostly cosmetic, with the underpinnings of the vehicle staying unchanged.

The most obvious revision for 2014 is to the bluff front fascia of the truck. There's a new, taller squared-off grille decorating the Tundra's nose, along with a revised, three-part front bumper design. The optional black grille-frame strikes us as an acquired taste, to say the least, but other models, like the Limited above, is all clad in chrome. Fenders and wheel wells are more square than in the out-going truck, too. Perhaps most significant is the revised bed design, which Toyota calls "all-new," with new sheet metal on the sides, a revised tailgate and a very subtle integrated spoiler.

Inside, Toyota has given buyers some new seats and a new-look instrument panel. A backup camera (always handy on big trucks) is now standard equipment on all grades, as is Bluetooth connectivity. Blind spot monitoring is a new, optional feature as well. In all, as with the exterior mods, the changes in-cabin are far more evolutionary than revolutionary.

All of the oily/functional bits of the Tundra carryover from the existing lineup. A 4.0-liter, 270-horsepower 278-pound-feet of torque V6 is still the base engine, while two V8s - a 310-hp, 327-lb-ft 4.6-liter and a 381-hp, 401-lb-ft 5.7-liter - round out the offerings. The V6 hooks up to a five-speed automatic transmission, while both V8s make use of six gears.

Considering Toyota's recent lackluster performance versus the American truck competition, we're not sure this facelift will give the Tundra enough of a push to overtake the likes of all-new models from GM and Ram, or the segment-leader Ford F-150. Time, and shoppers' dollars, will tell.

Continue reading 2014 Toyota Tundra appears with revised styling, same mechanicals

2014 Toyota Tundra appears with revised styling, same mechanicals originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 toyota tundrachicagochicago 2013chicago auto showfeaturedpickup trucktoyotatrucktundraThu, 07 Feb 2013 11:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20452537/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/07/2014-toyota-tundra-chicago-2013/20452537/article-detail.xml 20452537 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-toyota-tundra-platinum-chicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-toyota-tundra-platinum-chicago.jpg <![CDATA[Watch this strongman set a world record for pulling a truck... with his ear]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/01/watch-this-strongman-set-a-world-record-for-pulling-a-truck-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/01/watch-this-strongman-set-a-world-record-for-pulling-a-truck-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/01/watch-this-strongman-set-a-world-record-for-pulling-a-truck-w/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Man pulls truck with ear - video

When I was a teenager, people thought I was crazy because I started slowly gauging my ears (full disclosure: I didn't get very far). But that doesn't even compare to the absurdity that you'll find in this video.

Lasha Pataraya, a Georgian strongman, has reportedly set a new world record for pulling a truck with his ear. The truck weighed more than eight tons, and Pataraya managed to drag it a full 70 feet with a rope tied around his ear while a crowd cheered him on. Being a super-strong dude is one thing, but deciding to do something like this is just... well, we'll leave that for you to decide.

If the description above doesn't make you cringe enough (my ears hurt just thinking about it), scroll down to watch all the action unfold.

Continue reading Watch this strongman set a world record for pulling a truck... with his ear

Watch this strongman set a world record for pulling a truck... with his ear originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 01 Dec 2012 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eargeorgiaLasha Patarayarussiastrong mantruckvideoworld recordSat, 01 Dec 2012 19:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20392049/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/01/watch-this-strongman-set-a-world-record-for-pulling-a-truck-w/20392049/article-detail.xml 20392049 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/earvideo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/earvideo.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Nissan Titan gets modest updates, priced from $28,820*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/2013-nissan-titan-gets-modest-updates-priced-from-28-820/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/2013-nissan-titan-gets-modest-updates-priced-from-28-820/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/2013-nissan-titan-gets-modest-updates-priced-from-28-820/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Those looking for a full-size pickup alternative to what is offered by the American Big Three have two choices; the Toyota Tundra and the Nissan Titan. The latter of the two has received subtle updates for the 2013 model year, and its pricing has been announced.

Base MSRP for the 2013 Nissan Titan is $28,820. For that, you'll get the Titan S King Cab Short Wheelbase 4x2 model. Four-wheel drive will bring the price up to $31,670 for the same trim level, while a 4x2 Crew Cab model starts at $31,370. For the off-road crowd, the PRO-4X starts at $37,040, while the SL Crew Cab 4x4 sits atop the lineup and carries a base price of $42,740. All of these prices are *excluding the $995 destination charge.

As for the updates, most prominent is the new tailgate design that features an integrated rear spoiler. Other exterior and interior tweaks are subtle, and include now-standard side step rails, and a newly styled wheel for the S model. For 2013, the PRO-4X gets revised graphics and "Titan" seat embroidery.

All models of the Titan receive Nissans 5.6-liter V8, making 317 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque. Coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission, the full-size pickup is capable of 9,500 pounds when properly equipped.

To read more on the updated Nissan Titan, check out the press release below.

Continue reading 2013 Nissan Titan gets modest updates, priced from $28,820*

2013 Nissan Titan gets modest updates, priced from $28,820* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan titan4x4nissanpickuppro-4xtitantruckMon, 12 Nov 2012 09:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20376448/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/12/2013-nissan-titan-gets-modest-updates-priced-from-28-820/20376448/article-detail.xml 20376448 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-nissan-titan-628-1352663141_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-nissan-titan-628-1352663141.jpg <![CDATA[Coral Gables, FL votes to scrap 50-year-old pickup ban]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/10/coral-gables-fl-votes-to-scrap-50-year-old-pickup-ban/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/10/coral-gables-fl-votes-to-scrap-50-year-old-pickup-ban/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/10/coral-gables-fl-votes-to-scrap-50-year-old-pickup-ban/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford F-150

For 50 years, residents of Coral Gables, Florida weren't permitted to park pickup trucks in their driveways due to a local ordinance aimed at preserving the community's classy aesthetic. As you may recall, police began enforcing the rule last year by handing out citations with a $100 fine to anyone caught parking trucks on their property overnight. The fines could climb as high as $500. Former resident Lowell Kuvin waged an eight-year legal battle with the city to get the law repealed, but the Florida Supreme Court ruled in 2011 that the municipality had the authority to control its aesthetics.

But the citizens of Coral Cables put the ordinance on this year's ballot and voted to repeal the law. While residents seemed divided on the issue, most agreed the ban now served more as a class issue than anything else. Large SUVs, for instance, were entirely acceptable under the old ban.

Coral Gables, FL votes to scrap 50-year-old pickup ban originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Nov 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coral gablescoral gables pickup truckscoral gables trucksgovernmentlawlegalpickuppickup truckpickup truckstruckSat, 10 Nov 2012 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20375577/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/10/coral-gables-fl-votes-to-scrap-50-year-old-pickup-ban/20375577/article-detail.xml 20375577 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-f-150-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-f-150-628.jpg <![CDATA[Boat passes car on highway in - where else - Russia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/boat-passes-car-on-highway-in-where-else-russia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/boat-passes-car-on-highway-in-where-else-russia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/boat-passes-car-on-highway-in-where-else-russia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Boat passes truck in Russia

We've had some close calls while towing, though we've been fortunate enought to never have to deal with a calamity like the one you see above. From what we can tell, the driver of the truck in the video below was calmly driving along when his boat and trailer decided to blaze their own trail. We don't know if the trailer or the hitch failed, or if the rig simply wasn't secured properly, but the result is properly dramatic.

Fortunately, it doesn't look as if anyone was hurt in the chaos, though we're guessing both boat and trailer will need some substantial work. Let the video below serve as a reminder to check your hardware before hitching up. Scroll down to check it out for yourself.

Continue reading Boat passes car on highway in - where else - Russia

Boat passes car on highway in - where else - Russia originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boatrunaway boatrussiarussia boat videotowtowingtruckvideoMon, 23 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20283920/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/23/boat-passes-car-on-highway-in-where-else-russia/20283920/article-detail.xml 20283920 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/boat-pass-628-1343062073_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/boat-pass-628-1343062073.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler VP of product planning sees slot for small pickups]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/06/chrysler-vp-of-product-planning-sees-slot-for-small-pickups/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/06/chrysler-vp-of-product-planning-sees-slot-for-small-pickups/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/06/chrysler-vp-of-product-planning-sees-slot-for-small-pickups/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2002 Dodge M80 small pickup concept - yellow - front three-quarter view

"There is a vacuum left in the small pickup category," says Jesse Toprak, vice president of market intelligence for TrueCar.com in a new Detroit Free Press report. And as we all know, the automotive industry abhors a vacuum.

Joe Veltri, VP of product planning for Chrysler, sees that vacuum as a potential for profits.

"Based on our data, young males still aspire to own a pickup," Veltri says in the story. "Historically, if you go back to the '80s, the compact or midsize pickup segment was bigger than the full-size segment."

So why are small trucks no longer popular? Veltri and others argue that as the sticker price of smaller pickups got bigger, larger pickups began to look more affordable. Why buy a small pickup for $20k when a full-size truck is only a couple thousand more? We might add: Why by a small pickup when they've gotten so large that they're not much easier to drive or park than their full-size contemporaries?

Veltri says nothing has been finalized, but the company has been talking about a new small pickup for ages now. In fact, way back in 2002, they rolled out the blazing yellow Dodge M80 concept shown above. We loved it then, we like it now. A little bit retro, a whole lotta masculine. Build it on a unibody platform for better fuel economy, price it well below the full-size Ram and, bingo, vacuum filled. Like the Honda Ridgeline, it would give non-traditional truck buyers a more economical choice. If it were properly executed, well-priced and managed appreciably better fuel economy, we think it could be a strong seller seller (a trick that has thus far eluded the Ridgeline).

News stories the past few years have suggested that Chrysler has been investigating a unibody pickup as a replacement for its now-deceased Dakota midsize truck for several now, but we haven't heard much about the possibility since CEO Sergio Marchionne admitted in January that there's a "Better than 50-percent chance" that the next Dakota will rely on unibody construction.

Chrysler VP of product planning sees slot for small pickups originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Jul 2012 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdakotadodgedodge m80dodge rampagejoe veltriM80midsize pickupmidsize truckpickupsmall pickupsmall trucktruckFri, 06 Jul 2012 15:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20273057/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/06/chrysler-vp-of-product-planning-sees-slot-for-small-pickups/20273057/article-detail.xml 20273057 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2002-dodge-m80-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2002-dodge-m80-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Truck driver shortage means a longer wait for your packages]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/truck-driver-shortage-means-a-longer-wait-for-your-packages/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/truck-driver-shortage-means-a-longer-wait-for-your-packages/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/truck-driver-shortage-means-a-longer-wait-for-your-packages/#commentsFiled under: ,

semi truck driver

The news may be flooded with stories about the lagging U.S. economy and disappointing jobs reports, but it appears there is at least one profession that could use a few more applicants. USA Today reports that there is a genuine shortage of truck drivers, and the problem is leading to pricier deliveries and longer waits on packages.

There are plenty of reasons for the driver shortage, with a raft of retiring baby boomers and the $4,000 to $6,000 price for a six-week training course being among the main culprits. Another potential issue is a requirement for trucking companies to publish their safety records, which has reportedly led to some companies looking only for drivers with clean records. And the problem could become worse in the next year as the federal government enacts strict federal limits on the time drivers can spend behind the wheel of a big rig.

The good news is that drivers at least 21 years of age have plenty of opportunities for employment. Pay has gone up as well, with compensation jumping five percent year-over-year to an average of $50,000 per year. And with pay jumping that fast, a few thousand dollars worth of training becomes more of an investment.

Truck driver shortage means a longer wait for your packages originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driverhiringjobrigsemisemi drivertrucktruck driverwagesTue, 03 Jul 2012 08:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20266919/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/03/truck-driver-shortage-means-a-longer-wait-for-your-packages/20266919/article-detail.xml 20266919 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/truck-driver_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/truck-driver.jpg <![CDATA[Watch a house fall off a truck and hit a car head on]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/watch-a-house-fall-off-a-truck-and-hit-a-car-head-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/watch-a-house-fall-off-a-truck-and-hit-a-car-head-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/watch-a-house-fall-off-a-truck-and-hit-a-car-head-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

House falling off truck video

Oh dear. Now, we'll admit to seeing a semi-truck carting a modular home and thinking, "Hmm... I wonder how well-secured that house actually is," but we usually shrug it off after we've safely passed the wide load. Sadly, accidents happen, and one Russian driver recently experienced that very incident that we try our best not to think about.

Thanks to the magic of the dash cam, the entire experience was caught on tape, and we can't even imagine what sort of pants-soiling reaction the driver of the unsuspecting car had when faced with an obstacle of that size. Scroll down to see the big crash for yourself. We apologize in advance for the awful video quality.

Continue reading Watch a house fall off a truck and hit a car head on

Watch a house fall off a truck and hit a car head on originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crashhousetruckvideoThu, 07 Jun 2012 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20254088/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/07/watch-a-house-fall-off-a-truck-and-hit-a-car-head-on/20254088/article-detail.xml 20254088 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/truckhouse_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/truckhouse.jpg <![CDATA[Truck crashing through bar definitely spills a few drinks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/02/truck-crashing-through-bar-definitely-spills-a-few-drinks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/02/truck-crashing-through-bar-definitely-spills-a-few-drinks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/02/truck-crashing-through-bar-definitely-spills-a-few-drinks/#commentsFiled under: ,

truck crashes bar

Patrons at Gordie's Place in Little Canada, Minnesota are lucky to be alive after a driver crashed her pickup into the bar. Six adults were taken to the hospital, including the driver, who apparently suffered a medical condition while behind the wheel.

Two patrons were seriously injured, and after looking at the video, which is posted below, it's incredible that anyone survived the violent impact at all. The truck also ran down a telephone pole before hitting the bar, but as you can see in the video, it did little to slow the pickup.

Continue reading Truck crashing through bar definitely spills a few drinks

Truck crashing through bar definitely spills a few drinks originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentbarcrashgordies placeminnesotatruckSat, 02 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20249153/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/02/truck-crashing-through-bar-definitely-spills-a-few-drinks/20249153/article-detail.xml 20249153 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/pickup-slam-bar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/pickup-slam-bar.jpg <![CDATA[New Fuso Canter can canter in selectable 4x4 mode]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/new-fuso-canter-can-canter-in-selectable-4x4-mode/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/new-fuso-canter-can-canter-in-selectable-4x4-mode/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/new-fuso-canter-can-canter-in-selectable-4x4-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fuso Canter 4x4

If you're in the market and mood for a 6.5-ton cab-over truck that also offers power to all its wheels, Fuso would like you to have a look at its new Canter 4x4. With the addition of selectable four-wheel drive, Fuso is hoping to expand the 4x2 Canter's traditional market into unpaved uses like construction and municipal services.

Power comes from a 3.0-liter, four-cylinder turbodiesel with 175 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. A stop/start system is also used to improve efficiency. Standard features include a locking rear differential, exhaust brake, approach and departure angles that are nearly doubled over the 4x2 model, and a 40,000-kilometer maintenance interval. Options are plentiful, including single or crew-cab bodies, two wheelbase choices, payload up to 3,725 kilograms, 320 millimeters of ground clearance and 100 plain, metallic and pearl-finish paint colors.

For truck fans, there's a press release below and a high-res gallery of the Canter 4x4 in all kinds of poses.

Continue reading New Fuso Canter can canter in selectable 4x4 mode

New Fuso Canter can canter in selectable 4x4 mode originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 May 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cantercanter 4x4daimlerfusofuso canterfuso canter 4x4truckSat, 19 May 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239874/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/19/new-fuso-canter-can-canter-in-selectable-4x4-mode/20239874/article-detail.xml 20239874 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/fusocanter4x4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/fusocanter4x4.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz launching new Antos short-radius distribution truck]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-launching-new-antos-short-radius-distribution-truc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-launching-new-antos-short-radius-distribution-truc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-launching-new-antos-short-radius-distribution-truc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz Antos

If you thought Mercedes-Benz has expanded its range of luxury automobiles to gargantuan proportions, well... you're right. But its commercial vehicles division hasn't been missing a step, either. The German truckmaker is still in the process of launching the new Citan urban delivery van, and is already working on its next offering to the truckers of the world: the Antos.

Designed from the get-go as a short-radius distribution truck, the Antos pioneers a new class of maneuverable and versatile workhorse. Still in the development phase, the Antos will be revealed in full at the Commercial Vehicle IAA this coming September, at which point it will be made available in a staggering array of configurations. Mercedes-Benz plans to offer the Antos in two cab styles, with no fewer than thirteen powertrain options (ranging from 238 horsepower up to 510) and a whopping 67 wheelbase lengths to make it almost infinitely adaptable to whatever use its owners and operators have in mind.

The possibilities with a truck like this are virtually endless, extending to refrigerator boxes, flat beds, high cubes and beyond. Scroll down below to read more about it in the full press release.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz launching new Antos short-radius distribution truck

Mercedes-Benz launching new Antos short-radius distribution truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antosdelivery truckmercedes-benzmercedes-benz antosshort-radius delivery trucktruckMon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235584/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-launching-new-antos-short-radius-distribution-truc/20235584/article-detail.xml 20235584 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/webantos1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/webantos1.jpg <![CDATA[Safety groups file lawsuit against new U.S. trucking standards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/safety-groups-file-lawsuit-against-new-u-s-trucking-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/safety-groups-file-lawsuit-against-new-u-s-trucking-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/safety-groups-file-lawsuit-against-new-u-s-trucking-standards/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Semi truck crash test

A range of safety groups are calling for judicial review of federal rules for truck drivers' hours of service. According to a lawsuit filed by Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, Public Citizen, the Truck Safety Coalition and two truck drivers, the new rule doesn't protect the public from tired truckers. The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration recently ruled drivers could only work 70 hours within a seven-day period, down from a previous limit of 82. Truckers must also take a break of at least 30 minutes after an eight-hour shift.

That's a step in the right direction, but drivers are still allowed to travel up to 11 hours in one day. Those who reach their hourly limit in a week may then restart the clock by taking a 34-hour break, but that may only be done once within a seven-day period.

The concerned parties want a judicial review of the rule to eliminate the 34-hour restart provision and cut consecutive drive hours to 10, saying that truck crash fatalities increased by nine percent in 2010.

Safety groups file lawsuit against new U.S. trucking standards originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>federal motor carrier safety administrationpublic citizensemisemi trucktrucktruck drivertruck safety coalitionFri, 09 Mar 2012 08:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20181480/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/09/safety-groups-file-lawsuit-against-new-u-s-trucking-standards/20181480/article-detail.xml 20181480 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/semi-crash-test_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/semi-crash-test.jpg <![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 -1 2