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Posted: 15 Dec 2012 12:47 AM PST


Llamadas a revisión: 911 GT3, Panamera, Cayenne y Prius
Filed under: Porsche, Toyota Volvemos al ataque con llamadas a revisión por parte de los fabricantes, y lo hacemos hoy con tres modelos de Porsche para empezar. El primero de ellos es el 911 GT3 que en Estados Unidos ha sido llamado al taller por "posibles problemas con los rodamientos de las ruedas traseras" en las unidades fabricadas entre el 15 de mayo de 2009 y el 11 de febrero de 2010. Huelga comentar lo que puede ocurrir si se parte el buje o el rodamiento de una rueda, ¿verdad? Así que los afortunados propietarios de este genial coche, si no quieren que su rueda trasera se despegue del vehículo, deberán pasar por el taller oficial para que se tomen medidas, gratuitas eso sí, para solucionar el problema. Por el momento este aviso se reduce a Estados Unidos, ya que en la Unión Europea no aparece dicha llamada a revisión. Pero dado que, en principio, el buje es idéntico en la versión europea y en la norteamericana, no nos extrañaría que pronto llegue la llamada también para Europa.Continue reading Llamadas a revisión: 911 GT3, Panamera, Cayenne y PriusLlamadas a revisión: 911 GT3, Panamera, Cayenne y Prius originally appeared on Autoblog Español on Sat, 15 Dec 2012 03:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 15 Dec 2012 12:00 AM PST


Tesla Model S: quasi 700 chilometri con una sola ricarica!
La Tesla Model S potrebbe guadagnare una menzione nel libro del Guinness World Record. Lo statunitense David Metcalf ha infatti percorso 423.5 miglia (pari a 681.5 chilometri) con una sola ricarica,[...]

Posted: 15 Dec 2012 12:00 AM PST


Ventas noviembre 2012: Europa
Filed under: Industria Ayer Guille nos traía un pequeño adelanto sobre el mercado europeo durante el pasado mes de noviembre. Hoy completamos la información con un resumen más detallado con los datos de las marcas más demandadas y los resultados por países. La caída total en el viejo continente fue de 10,1% (UE27 + EFTA), con un total de 965.918 unidades vendidas. Por países los más destacados fueron:SUBEN Irlanda +13,5% Reino Unido +11,3% Islandia +32,6% BAJAN Rumania -44,6% Grecia -47,4% Chipre -39,6% Continue reading Ventas noviembre 2012: EuropaVentas noviembre 2012: Europa originally appeared on Autoblog Español on Sat, 15 Dec 2012 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 06:57 PM PST


Automakers score 8 out of top 20 most-watched ads on YouTube [w/videos]
Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Audi, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Honda, Toyota, Humor, Fiat, TV/Movies Who would have ever thought there'd be a day where people are able to skip television commercials only to go to websites to watch them later? Such is the joy of a DVR and YouTube. AdWeek tabulated the 20 most-watched ads on YouTube, and found that nine were car-related including eight coming from automakers.Volkswagen continued its Star Wars theme with two ads in the top 20, including the highest-ranking car commercial The Bark Side spot at number three with almost 18 million views, which doesn't even have a single car in it. Some of our favorites are from Chrysler with Clint Eastwood in It's Halftime in America and House Arrest with Charlie Sheen for the Fiat 500 Abarth. Chevrolet, Honda, Audi and Toyota were the other automakers in the top 20, but we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention one of the coolest ads on the list, the Hot Wheels corkscrew jump. Of all the car videos, only the Fiat ad wasn't played during a Super Bowl. Check out all eight videos - in order - after the jump. Nike took the top spot with its My Time is Now ad that has been seen online more than 20 million times with Pepsi's Uncle Drew posted up in the runner-up; some of the other videos include four Old Spice commercials and an ad in which Snoop Dogg is pedaling Hot Pockets.Continue reading Automakers score 8 out of top 20 most-watched ads on YouTube [w/videos]Automakers score 8 out of top 20 most-watched ads on YouTube [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 05:23 PM PST


Report: Automakers score 8 out of top 20 most-watched ads on YouTube [w/videos]
Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Audi, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Honda, Toyota, Humor, Fiat, TV/Movies Who would have ever thought there'd be a day where people are able to skip television commercials only to go to websites to watch them later? Such is the joy of a DVR and YouTube. AdWeek tabulated the 20 most-watched ads on YouTube, and found that nine were car-related including eight coming from automakers.Volkswagen continued its Star Wars theme with two ads in the top 20, including the highest-ranking car commercial The Bark Side spot at number three with almost 18 million views, which doesn't even have a single car in it. Some of our favorites are from Chrysler with Clint Eastwood in It's Halftime in America and House Arrest with Charlie Sheen for the Fiat 500 Abarth. Chevrolet, Honda, Audi and Toyota were the other automakers in the top 20, but we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention one of the coolest ads on the list, the Hot Wheels corkscrew jump. Of all the car videos, only the Fiat ad wasn't played during a Super Bowl. Check out all eight videos - in order - after the jump. Nike took the top spot with its My Time is Now ad that has been seen online more than 20 million times with Pepsi's Uncle Drew posted up in the runner-up; some of the other videos include four Old Spice commercials and an ad in which Snoop Dogg is pedaling Hot Pockets.Continue reading Automakers score 8 out of top 20 most-watched ads on YouTube [w/videos]Automakers score 8 out of top 20 most-watched ads on YouTube [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 04:37 PM PST


Video: BMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe Concept
Filed under: Videos, Hatchback, BMW, Electric, Luxury For those still trying to figure out what the BMW i3 Coupe Concept is about, the Munich brand has provided an explanation in moving pictures, as well as a much better look at the interior. The result of 40 years of tinkering with electric cars, the production version of the i3 Coupe Concept will be the public's first taste of BMW's i brand and a prelude to the i8. Word is that it will go on sale next year and, if it sticks close to the concept, should offer something like 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque being pushed to the rear wheels. That should get the high-sided hatch from zero to 60 kilometers - not miles - per hour in four seconds. For the rest of the skinny, have a watch of the video below.Continue reading BMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe ConceptBMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 04:37 PM PST


Video: BMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe Concept
Filed under: Videos, Hatchback, BMW, Electric, Luxury For those still trying to figure out what the BMW i3 Coupe Concept is about, the Munich brand has provided an explanation in moving pictures, as well as a much better look at the interior. The result of 40 years of tinkering with electric cars, the production version of the i3 Coupe Concept will be the public's first taste of BMW's i brand and a prelude to the i8. Word is that it will go on sale next year and, if it sticks close to the concept, should offer something like 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque being pushed to the rear wheels. That should get the high-sided hatch from zero to 60 kilometers - not miles - per hour in four seconds. For the rest of the skinny, have a watch of the video below.Continue reading BMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe ConceptBMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 04:37 PM PST


ETC: Customize a Scion, make it out of paper [w/video]
Filed under: Etc., Scion, Toys/Games, Design/StyleShin Tanaka is a "Japanese artist, graffiti writer, paper toy creator, designer" with Kennedy Center credentials - his Paper Shaper sneakers are especially popular. Scion has done a DIY collaboration with Tanaka that can get you every one of Scion's five models as a Paper Shaper. There are two ways to get in on the auto origami, the first being to stop by the Scion booth if you happen by one of the coming season's auto shows. Since that's a lot of work and waiting to acquire a perforated sheet of paper, you can also download the Scion Paper Shaper app from iTunes. In the app you can customize your model, complete with custom paper sneakers on the custom paper base, then print it out and build it yourself. If you have any more questions, well, the video and photos below will put it all together for you.Continue reading Customize a Scion, make it out of paper [w/video]Customize a Scion, make it out of paper [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 03:46 PM PST


Report: Subaru axes WRX and STI in UK
Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Performance, Subaru, UKAuto Express reports Subaru will stop selling the Impreza, WRX and WRX STI in the UK starting next year. A spokesperson with the company said Subaru has been evaluating the Impreza and its performance in the UK for the past year and has finally decided to pull the plug. That means all of the model's performance iterations will also drop off of dealer lots, including the WRX and the STI. The unnamed spokesperson said Subaru UK currently has no plans to to bring more stock of either model once the current supply sells out. That means buyers in the UK have until around early summer 2013 to get their hands on an STI. The move comes in response to slow demand, which has trickled off in the face of competition that best the machine in terms of refinement, performance and emissions. Moving forward, the automaker says it will focus its sales efforts on models like the XV Crosstrek, Forester and Outback, as well as the company's new BRZ sports coupe.Subaru axes WRX and STI in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 03:46 PM PST


Primeras imágenes en vivo del Ford Transit Connect para Estados Unidos
Filed under: Ford, Vehiculos industriales ligeros, comerciales y Pick Ups, Familiares Haz clic en la imagen para saltar a la galería Tras la presentación de los Ford Tourneo Connect para el mercado estadounidense hace unas semanas, ahora le toca el turno a la versión más comercial y trabajadora. Responde a la denominación Transit Connect y llega con muy buenos argumentos para hacerse con una buena cuota del segmento. Nuestros compañeros de Autoblog en Estados Unidos ya han podido verlo en persona y conocerlo más en detalle. Más turismo que nunca, la versión comercial disfruta de un puesto de conducción muy parecido al de los monovolumen de la marca pero con ciertos detalles menos cuidados. Esto es algo lógico dado que lo primordial es contener los costes. La zona de carga puede pedirse guarnecida o con chapa vista, además de con un largo listado de accesorios que pueden transformar por completo esta zona. La gama mecánica estará formada por un 2.5i 16v DOHC con cambio automático como opción de acceso y el estupendo 1.6 Ecoboost, también con cambio automático.Gallery: Ford Transit Connect, en vivo (Estados Unidos)Continue reading Primeras imágenes en vivo del Ford Transit Connect para Estados UnidosPrimeras imágenes en vivo del Ford Transit Connect para Estados Unidos originally appeared on Autoblog Español on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 03:46 PM PST


Report: Reuss says GM "fundamentally" behind diesel in US, promises more models
Filed under: Technology, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, DieselGeneral Motors is sometimes faulted for poisoning demand for diesel engines in the US. But 30 years later, The General is warming to the idea of consumer-targeted oil burners again. GM President Mark Reuss tells TheDetroitBureau.com that if he has a say, his company will again sell a bunch of diesel-powered passenger cars in the US. "There is, fundamentally, a place for diesel here," Reuss told TDB after Thursday's Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra intros. When asked directly about a diesel future for GM, Reuss answered, "more to come." Reuss went on to say new technologies are making cleaner-burning diesels that should make meeting US emissions requirements easier, though he cautions they could push prices up beyond what buyers would be willing to pay. An anonymous GM exec says in the story that consumers have shown an interest in diesel and were willing to pay extra for the greater fuel economy - but not enough to cover actual costs of the technology. GM's heavy-duty pickups currently offer a diesel engine, but the future of diesel-powered, light-duty cars from GM will likely depend heavily on the market performance of the upcoming diesel Chevrolet Cruze. If it can hit the mythical 50 mpg mark, it could be a hot enough seller that it triggers new conversations in GM's boardroom about developing other oil-burners for North American consumption. Could the future include diesel versions of GM's light-duty pickups? It would appear that the notion has at least one very powerful champion in Reuss.Reuss says GM "fundamentally" behind diesel in US, promises more models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 03:46 PM PST


Reuss says GM "fundamentally" behind diesel in US, promises more models
Filed under: Technology, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, DieselGeneral Motors is sometimes faulted for poisoning demand for diesel engines in the US. But 30 years later, The General is warming to the idea of consumer-targeted oil burners again. GM President Mark Reuss tells TheDetroitBureau.com that if he has a say, his company will again sell a bunch of diesel-powered passenger cars in the US. "There is, fundamentally, a place for diesel here," Reuss told TDB after Thursday's Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra intros. When asked directly about a diesel future for GM, Reuss answered, "more to come." Reuss went on to say new technologies are making cleaner-burning diesels that should make meeting US emissions requirements easier, though he cautions they could push prices up beyond what buyers would be willing to pay. An anonymous GM exec says in the story that consumers have shown an interest in diesel and were willing to pay extra for the greater fuel economy - but not enough to cover actual costs of the technology. GM's heavy-duty pickups currently offer a diesel engine, but the future of diesel-powered, light-duty cars from GM will likely depend heavily on the market performance of the upcoming diesel Chevrolet Cruze. If it can hit the mythical 50 mpg mark, it could be a hot enough seller that it triggers new conversations in GM's boardroom about developing other oil-burners for North American consumption. Could the future include diesel versions of GM's light-duty pickups? It would appear that the notion has at least one very powerful champion in Reuss.Reuss says GM "fundamentally" behind diesel in US, promises more models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:59 PM PST


Official: Japan-market Nissan Leaf uses smaller amounts of rare earth metals [w/video]
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Nissan, Japan We're not sure what "grain boundary diffusion" means, but it has something to do with the Nissan Leaf all-electric vehicle substantially cutting its use of rare-earth minerals in its electric motor, so we're all for it. The Japanese automaker says that, starting in November, it began building electric motors for the Leaf that use 40 percent less of the rare-earth mineral dysprosium than before. Dysprosium was used to make the fast-spinning magnets inside the electric motor more heat resistant, but Nissan found a way around much of that use, hence the super esoteric terminology "grain boundary diffusion." The development marks good press for Nissan because it lessens the need for rare earth metals to be extracted from places such as China. Smaller amounts of rare earth metals also means lower cost, which can be a big help. In November, Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn said the automaker would miss its goal to sell 20,000 Leafs in the US this year. Nissan has, however, somewhat closed the gap between this year's sales and last year's during recent months. US Leaf sales in November more than doubled from a year earlier, and are down just 4.5 percent year-to-date. Read Nissan's press release below, and check out its two-minute video here.Continue reading Japan-market Nissan Leaf uses smaller amounts of rare earth metals [w/video]Japan-market Nissan Leaf uses smaller amounts of rare earth metals [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:59 PM PST


Report: Could Michigan going "Right To Work" status revitalize its auto production?
Filed under: Government/Legal, Plants/Manufacturing, UAW/Unions The Midwest has lately been at the center of battles between unions and the politicians contesting them, and the union side hasn't been doing so well. Michigan is the latest rust-belt state to lob a legislative grenade into union ranks, the state governor signing two right-to-work bills that prohibit mandatory union dues in the state's workplaces. Some context: This isn't like Indiana or Wisconsin, two other nearby states that have recently waged government vs. union battles (unions lost in both states), Michigan is a marquee union haven. It is the birthplace of the United Auto Workers, the richest union in the nation, and has ties to the International Brotherhood of Teamsters that still make front page news. It has the fifth-highest union membership of any state, but it has the greatest number of union members by percentage of the population. And as for that fifth-placed membership placing, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2011 the states ahead of Michigan were New York, Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington. Reaction from union representatives and supporters has, naturally, been damning. More than 12,000 people from Michigan and surrounding states marched outside the state Capitol, the Teamsters president called the bill "shameful" and "divisive," and 260 teachers - members of another powerful union - called in sick on the say of the vote. Reaction from outside the unions has been mixed: The hope is that the legislation will give Michigan a better chance to compete for corporate dollars now that the specter of compulsory unionization has been removed. But it doesn't change existing union contracts - the current UAW labor agreement with the Big Three expires in 2015 - and it doesn't stop attempts to unionize. Michigan also has other issues like its tax on manufacturing equipment that make it an expensive place to do business. No one is expecting cash to suddenly be funneled back into Michigan in ways it hasn't been for decades, and it will take a few years to gauge the results. The narrative, rather, seems to be more about the future of unions and the momentum turning even more forcefully against them, as opposed to a sudden revival of Michigan's fortunes because of the legislation.Could Michigan going "Right To Work" status revitalize its auto production? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


España: Llegan las primeras unidades del Porsche Panamera "Platinum Edition"
Filed under: Porsche, Cupés, Segmento F berlinas de representación superior Haz clic en la imagen para saltar a la galería Ya están disponibles en el mercado español los Porsche Panamera "Platinum Edition", una serie especial de este particular coupé de cuatro puertas que incrementa la dotación con un equipamiento específico y que fue presentado a finales del mes de octubre. Se ofrece tanto en versiones de gasolina como con el diésel de seis cilindros y las primeras unidades ya están en los concesionarios. Entre otras cosas los nuevos integrantes de la gama Panamera incluyen la mitad inferior de los espejos, lamas de la parrilla frontal, entradas de aire laterales, moldura en el portón y difusor posterior en "Gris Platino". Además reciben las entradas laterales de la versión Turbo y las molduras del contorno de las ventanillas en negro lacado. Las pinturas selecionadas para su carrocería son cinco, dos de ellas sólidas y tres metalizadas (con coste adicional). En el habitáculo encontramos el tapizado en piel para asientos, puertas y salpicadero, volante deportivo en cuero, insignia de Porsche bordada en los apoyacabezas y molduras de las puertas con el logo "Platinum Edition". Los precios recomendados, te recordamos, son de 92.592 € para el Panamera, 101.280 € para el Panamera 4 y 91.927 € para el Panamera Diésel.Gallery: Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition Share TweetEspaña: Llegan las primeras unidades del Porsche Panamera "Platinum Edition" originally appeared on Autoblog Español on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


Dit weekend Race of Champions, dit zijn de auto's
Een motorsportfestijn waar alleen maar kampioenen in meerijden. Oud, jong, rally en Formule 1 coureurs, allemaal gewend om te winnen en in strijd voor de titel 'Champion of Champions'. Dit jaar, dit weekend wordt de race verreden in Bangkok. In welke vierwielers de kampioenen ten strijde trekken? Opnieuw een uiteenlopend veld pk-kanonnen waarvan sommigen niet [...]verwante verhalenVideo: dit doet Rusland met 'andersparkeerders'Audi R8 GT650: dikker dan Bultrug Johannes/je moeder*Volvo 240 station V8 is de bruutste drifter ooit [video]Techniek: vierwielaandrijving van Mercedes en BMWSmart ForTwo is, vreemd genoeg, klaar voor Dakar

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


Video: Brazilian woman destroys cheating husband's car in public
Filed under: Sedan, Etc., Videos, Honda, South America It's a tale as old as time. Boy meet girl... boy cheats on girl... girl goes to town on boy's car with a hammer. Wait, what? Okay, maybe not the most orthodox of love stories, but according to the poster of this video, it's exactly what happened in Sao Paulo, Brazil last week. The description claims that the fiery redhead was enraged by her husband's apparent infidelity, leading her to take out her frustrations on what looks like a '90s fifth-generation Honda Accord. She wailed on the defenseless Honda with a hammer, hitting the hood, windshield and completely destroying the rear window as many looked on in a mix of curiosity and amusement. At no time did anyone intervene or try to calm the woman down, but she was, after all, wielding a hammer. When enough damage had been done, the scorned lover picked up her bag and strutted off to the sound of applause and whistling. Check out the (admittedly shaky and grainy) video of the destruction, and let it serve as a warning to all cheaters out there - hell still hath no fury like a woman scorned.Continue reading Brazilian woman destroys cheating husband's car in publicBrazilian woman destroys cheating husband's car in public originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


Lamborghini recalls Aventador over headlamp problem
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Safety, Technology, Lamborghini, Luxury The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a bulletin over a recall for up to 144 examples of the 2012 Lamborghini Aventador here in the States. The affected models, built from July 15, 2011 to April 20, 2012 have headlights that apparently don't conform to US federal motor vehicle safety standards. The lamps can be aimed horizontally but not vertically, which can reduce their usefulness for the driver and blind oncoming traffic if aimed improperly. Lamborghini is expected to begin notifying affected owners next week, at which time they can take their Aventadors to their dealers for a fix free of charge. The complete bulletin from NHTSA is below.Continue reading Lamborghini recalls Aventador over headlamp problemLamborghini recalls Aventador over headlamp problem originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


Smart ForTwo is, vreemd genoeg, klaar voor Dakar
Bijna het einde van het jaar dus bijna tijd voor Dakar! De offroad uitputtingsslag die je mee wilt maken en dit jaar doet er zelfs een Smart mee. Een eenzitter Smart ForTwoForOne. We hebben video van dit aparte creatuur. Op straat valt een Smart nét in de categorie 'auto', in de Dakar rally is het [...]verwante verhalenVideo: dit doet Rusland met 'andersparkeerders'Audi R8 GT650: dikker dan Bultrug Johannes/je moeder*Volvo 240 station V8 is de bruutste drifter ooit [video]Techniek: vierwielaandrijving van Mercedes en BMWDit weekend Race of Champions, dit zijn de auto's

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


Report: Audi boss talks about possible diesel-electric LeMans-inspired supercar
Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Europe, Technology, Audi, Electric, Diesel, Luxury Word has it Audi is hard at work on a new diesel-electric supercar. Auto Express reports Wolfgang Durheimer, head of technical development for the company, is planning a road vehicle that will make the most of the lessons learned from the automaker's 24 Hours of Le Mans efforts. Durheimer says the supercar will be very different from the current R8 and will offer buyers state-of-the-art technology. Specifically, the as-yet-unnamed model will be able to best the current McLaren P1 around a race track. Details are, of course, scarce, though the company's recent past could point to what we can expect to see from such a machine. The Audi R8 TDI LeMans Concept from the 2008 Detroit Auto Show promised the world an R8 with a V12 TDI diesel behind the front seats. With 500 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque, the machine would undoubtedly have been a blast to drive, but Audi shuttered any thought of a production model a year later. Odds are a modern interpretation of that machine would feature a smaller displacement diesel engine paired with a hybrid system for additional thrust.Audi boss talks about possible diesel-electric LeMans-inspired supercar originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


Report: Audi boss talks about possible diesel-electric LeMans-inspired supercar
Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Europe, Technology, Audi, Electric, Diesel, Luxury Word has it Audi is hard at work on a new diesel-electric supercar. Auto Express reports Wolfgang Durheimer, head of technical development for the company, is planning a road vehicle that will make the most of the lessons learned from the automaker's 24 Hours of Le Mans efforts. Durheimer says the supercar will be very different from the current R8 and will offer buyers state-of-the-art technology. Specifically, the as-yet-unnamed model will be able to best the current McLaren P1 around a race track. Details are, of course, scarce, though the company's recent past could point to what we can expect to see from such a machine. The Audi R8 TDI LeMans Concept from the 2008 Detroit Auto Show promised the world an R8 with a V12 TDI diesel behind the front seats. With 500 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque, the machine would undoubtedly have been a blast to drive, but Audi shuttered any thought of a production model a year later. Odds are a modern interpretation of that machine would feature a smaller displacement diesel engine paired with a hybrid system for additional thrust.Audi boss talks about possible diesel-electric LeMans-inspired supercar originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 02:13 PM PST


Techniek: vierwielaandrijving van Mercedes en BMW
Kou, regen, veel troep op 's lands wegen en als finishing touch ook nog sneeuw. Ook/juist in de winter kom je het beste weg met een vierwielaandrijver. Reden genoeg voor Mercedes en BMW om ook in de kleinste modellen 4Matic en xDrive aan te bieden. Hoe werkt dat dan? Het is zo simpel: naar de [...]verwante verhalenVideo: dit doet Rusland met 'andersparkeerders'Audi R8 GT650: dikker dan Bultrug Johannes/je moeder*Volvo 240 station V8 is de bruutste drifter ooit [video]Dit weekend Race of Champions, dit zijn de auto'sSmart ForTwo is, vreemd genoeg, klaar voor Dakar

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 01:13 PM PST


El 'Festival Internationale de l'Automobile' elige los supercars y concept cars del año. Y vosotros también
Filed under: Aston Martin, BMW, Citroën, Ferrari, Conceptuales, AlpineEl Bertone Nuccio es uno de los concept cars que optan al premio del FAI 2012. Del 30 de enero al 3 de febrero de 2013 se celebrará una exposición de concept cars organizada en el marco del Festival Internationale de l'Automobile (FAI) en París. Curiosamente, este festival abre la temporada 2013 haciendo un repaso a lo mejor de 2012... Durante el certamen se entregan una serie de prestigiosos premios, siempre relacionados con el automóvil, como el mejor anuncio, el mejor libro o el mejor habitáculo. Pero los premios con mayor repercusión mediática y prestigio son los de "supercar del año" y "concept car del año". En la categoría de los supercars nos encontramos con el Aston Martin Vanquish, el BMW serie 6 Gran Coupé, el Ferrari F12 berlinetta y el Jaguar F-Type. Mientras que en la categoría del concept car más bonito del año, sólo se toman en cuenta criterios puramente estéticos, el Citroën Numéro 9, el Peugeot Onyx, el Renault Alpine A110-50 y el Bertone Nuccio, el cual fue diseñado por el español Carlos Arroyo. Este certamen incluye además, dos nuevos premios. El "Créativ'Experience" (creación e innovación en el campo de la conectividad, navegación, multimedia e interfaz hombre-máquina) y el de "Young Talent Designer". Éste último premio, en colaboración con BMW, recompensa un estudiante de una escuela de diseño. Los premios se entregarán en una ceremonia el 29 de enero en el prestigioso Dôme des Invalides, en Paris. Por eso nos pareció una buena idea proponeros hacer una votación paralela a la del evento y ver si nuestros gustos coinciden con los de nuestros vecinos galos. Os recordamos que, al igual que en el FAI, sólo se valora la estética del coche.Continue reading El 'Festival Internationale de l'Automobile' elige los supercars y concept cars del año. Y vosotros tambiénEl 'Festival Internationale de l'Automobile' elige los supercars y concept cars del año. Y vosotros también originally appeared on Autoblog Español on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 01:13 PM PST


Report: Ford F-150 to counter new GM pickups with 3-mpg improvement
Filed under: Truck, Ford A new battle is brewing among fullsize pickup trucks. On top of boasting horsepower or towing capacity figures, it seems the next generation of pickup trucks will also be getting pretty serious about fuel economy. With General Motors and Ram recently unveiling their latest pickups, Automotive News is reporting that Ford is working on the next-generation F-150, which is expected to include a lighter curb weight and higher fuel economy. Reports of Ford cutting weight and using aluminum to do so on the next F-150 aren't new, but the AN article is finally putting a possible target fuel economy to go along with the expected 700- to 750-pound weight reduction. Currently, the F-150 with EcoBoost delivers the best highway mileage of up to 23 miles per gallon, which is off the pace of the 2013 Ram 1500 that stands as the fuel economy leader (for now) with up to 25 mpg on the highway. But Ford may be looking at a three-mpg gain on its new truck; official EPA ratings for the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra have not been released yet. The article also mentions small-displacement (2.9 liters) engines and a shared Toyota hybrid technology, but it isn't clear if either would be used in the 2016 F-150. Until then, AN says that Ford is planning to bring an eight-speed automatic to its fullsize truck within the next couple of year.Ford F-150 to counter new GM pickups with 3-mpg improvement originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 01:12 PM PST


Report: Ford F-150 to counter new GM pickups with 3-mpg improvement
Filed under: Truck, Ford A new battle is brewing among fullsize pickup trucks. On top of boasting horsepower or towing capacity figures, it seems the next generation of pickup trucks will also be getting pretty serious about fuel economy. With General Motors and Ram recently unveiling their latest pickups, Automotive News is reporting that Ford is working on the next-generation F-150, which is expected to include a lighter curb weight and higher fuel economy. Reports of Ford cutting weight and using aluminum to do so on the next F-150 aren't new, but the AN article is finally putting a possible target fuel economy to go along with the expected 700- to 750-pound weight reduction. Currently, the F-150 with EcoBoost delivers the best highway mileage of up to 23 miles per gallon, which is off the pace of the 2013 Ram 1500 that stands as the fuel economy leader (for now) with up to 25 mpg on the highway. But Ford may be looking at a three-mpg gain on its new truck; official EPA ratings for the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra have not been released yet. The article also mentions small-displacement (2.9 liters) engines and a shared Toyota hybrid technology, but it isn't clear if either would be used in the 2016 F-150. Until then, AN says that Ford is planning to bring an eight-speed automatic to its fullsize truck within the next couple of year.Ford F-150 to counter new GM pickups with 3-mpg improvement originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 12:16 PM PST


Quick Spin: 2013 Subaru WRX Special Edition
Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Subaru, Quick Spins Two months ago, I was carving pumpkins in a canyon - last week I was carving canyons in a pumpkin. I genuinely prefer the latter. It's hard to miss the 2013 Subaru WRX Special Edition. The twins (the automaker is offering the package on both the WRX and its higher-performing STI sibling - just 300 copies in total) arrive in Tangerine Orange paint with Jet Black wheels, black exterior mirrors and black front fender badges. The purely cosmetic upgrades are carried inside the cabin with black cloth upholstery contrasted with orange stitching on the seats, doors, shift boot and piping on the floor mats. After a day, I completely forgot about the controversial orange paint (you either love or hate its burnt pumpkin color) and focused on the simple joy of driving Subaru's rally-inspired WRX. The turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four is a gem of an engine. It pulls soundly from the low end of the tachometer yet willingly runs to fuel cutoff at redline. Unfortunately, the note coming from the quad exhaust pipes resonates and booms from within the cabin. I liked it, but many of my passengers complained. While the industry has moved to six-speed manual transmissions (as has the STI), few realize just how wonderful a competent five-speed gearbox really is. Despite giving up a bit in acceleration and fuel economy (the 6MT has a lower first gear, and a taller six gear), the 5MT will easily run to 60 miles per hour without a shift to second gear. This also translates to less clutch work around town. During a spirited run up Decker Canyon and Mulholland Highway, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive kicked serious tail in the corners. It absolutely refused to let go of the pavement, regardless of how much power was going to the wheels. The suspension of the WRX is a bit softer than I expected. While it translated to a much more comfortable highway ride, it came across a too squishy for really hardcore flogging. For upgraded suspension, brakes and a more capable all-wheel drive system, consumers need to look at the STI. The cloth bucket seats are comfortable, supportive during aggressive driving maneuvers and heated. What more can one ask for? The WRX won't let anyone forget its Impreza roots. The cabin appointments are budget-oriented, with no-frills hard plastic on the dashboard and doors, minimal digital instrumentation (no trip computer or fuel distance-to-empty display) and a lackluster audio system (one of the worst I have experienced in years). Keep in mind that Subaru has already replaced its Impreza with an all-new fourth-generation model - the WRX (and STI) are still on the third-generation platform - expect their high-performance replacements to emerge within a year. 2013 Subaru WRX Special Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 12:15 PM PST


Lamborghini presentará un misterioso nuevo modelo en 2013
Filed under: Lamborghini, IndustriaLamborghini prevé lanzar un nuevo modelo en 2013 para celebrar los 50 años de la marca. Al parecer, la marca de Sant'Agata Bolognese presentará un modelo único y especial para la ocasión. Stephan Winkelmann, CEO de Lamborghini, no quiso dar detalles acerca de ese nuevo modelo. Se limitó a explicar que "no será una evocación [de un modelo antiguo] o un diseño retro". Por suerte, ya no falta mucho para que empiecen las celebraciones de este aniversario y podamos ver la nueva máquina. Este misterioso modelo, no es lo único que Lamborghini tiene previsto para su aniversario. Ya ha invitado a muchos clientes de la marca a participar con sus coches en una ruta turística por la Toscana, Roma y Boloña antes de terminar en la factoría de la marca. Lamborghini goza de buena salud a pesar de un clima económica bastante deprimido. Sus ventas se mantienen a un buen nivel y ya hay una lista de espera de 18 meses para el Aventador, ya sea cupé o roadster. [Fuente: AutomotiveNews] Share TweetLamborghini presentará un misterioso nuevo modelo en 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog Español on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 12:15 PM PST


Report: Volkswagen Routan production halted, could lead to vehicle's demise
Filed under: Minivan/Van, Plants/Manufacturing, Volkswagen The Volkswagen Routan has quietly been out of production since July, but with a new three-row crossover on the way and a recent back-and-forth spat between Volkswagen executives and Sergio Marchionne of Fiat, it's probable that the 2012 model year could be the last for this minivan. The current agreement for Chrysler to build the Routan in Windsor, Ontario lasts through 2014, but Automotive News is reporting that VW might be looking to renegotiate the deal early next year. Aside from any of the political issues going on between the two automakers, the truth of the matter is that the Routan just isn't selling well. So far this year, VW has sold just 9,923 units of the badge-engineered minivan, down 17 percent from last year. Almost all of the other entrants in the segment have enjoyed double-digit sales increases this year including the Chrysler trio of vans (Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town and Country and Ram C/V), Honda Odyssey and Nissan Quest. Overall, the Grand Caravan remains the top-selling minivan through November with 127,308 units sold, and Chrysler as a whole continues to dominate the segment it created with total minivan sales of 236,195 across its Dodge, Chrysler and Ram brands. To make matters even worse for the Routan, the minivan market is about to add another (admittedly left-field) competitor into the mix when Ford returns to the segment with the long-wheelbase 2014 Transit Connect.Volkswagen Routan production halted, could lead to vehicle's demise originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 11:32 AM PST


Official: Ford shows off commercial version of new Transit Connect
Filed under: Minivan/Van, Work, Ford, Specialty We recently showed you the updated Ford Transit Connect Wagon in all its refreshed glory. Well here is the new 2014 Transit Connect (note the lack of "Wagon" in name, for its commercially minded purpose), and it's the small Ford van of choice for your tougher jobs. Ford says this van is ideally suited for small businesses and fleets looking to prioritize fuel economy. Two gasoline-powered four-cylinder engines have been announced, as well as the availability of compressed natural gas-powered mill with the CNG prep package. The base engine is a 2.5-liter DOHC inline-four, while the uprated engine is a 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four. Ford is anticipating 30-plus miles per gallon from the latter. Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The Transit Connect comes with all of Ford's latest collection of goodies, including an available 6.5-inch touchscreen with Sync and MyFordTouch, as well as Ford's MyKey programable key system. However, the key feature of the Transit Connect is capability, and this van appears to have it in spades, including a max 1,600-pound payload and over 130 cubic feet of cargo space. When properly equipped, it can also tow up to 2,000 pounds. Ford sees global commercial vehicle sales growing by 4.8 million units next year, and wants to capitalize on that by employing its One Ford program. To that end it will be selling the Transit Connect in 66 international markets, making it a truly global vehicle. If your interest has been piqued by the Transit Connect, feel free to read on to the press release below.Continue reading Ford shows off commercial version of new Transit ConnectFord shows off commercial version of new Transit Connect originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Posted: 14 Dec 2012 11:32 AM PST


Volvo 240 station V8 is de bruutste drifter ooit [video]
Nee, er is weinig waar je mij gelukkiger mee kan maken dan een goed uitgedoste en/of aangeklede eighties Volvo. Een station met een V6 turbo of V8? Dan heb je goud. Het geluid alleen al, heerlijk! Ongekend sterk, achterwiel aangedreven en standaard heeft 'ie al een ongekend grote stuuruitslag. Velen geloven het niet of willen [...]verwante verhalenVrije opdracht: verzin de meest belachelijke autoniche [updated]Blauw/Turquoise: kan de 911 Carrera 4 GTS 't hebben?Knipperend groen verkeerslicht voor oranje: goed idee?Video: dit doet Rusland met 'andersparkeerders'Audi R8 GT650: dikker dan Bultrug Johannes/je moeder*