zeniatakken

AUTOS: Fantasy Bids More Than Doubled During Barrett-Jackson

2012-02-23T04:00:00.001-08:00

Nearly 1.6 million players vied for prizes during the Scottsdale auction, with a new Shelby GT500 presented as the grand prize.

Source: http://automotive.speedtv.com/article/autos-fantasy-bid-more-than-doubled-during-barrett-jackson/

Christian Goethals Paul Goldsmith José Froilán González Oscar González Aldo Gordini Horace Gould

TSTC Alerts Drivers to Costs of Transit-Free Tappan Zee

2012-02-22T23:00:00.001-08:00

The Tri-State Transportation Campaign is looking to enlist car commuters in the fight for transit on the Tappan Zee Bridge.
Two radio spots sponsored by Tri-State are airing on 1010 WINS this week, in advance of draft environmental impact statement�(DEIS) hearings scheduled for February 28 and March 1. Here’s the copy:
It?s now or never to tame [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/21/tstc-alerts-drivers-to-costs-of-transit-free-tappan-zee/

Danny Kladis Hans Klenk Peter de Klerk Christian Klien Karl Kling Ernst Klodwig

Brian Scott, 2012 NNS DRIVE4COPD 300 Race Preview

2012-02-22T20:00:00.001-08:00

Brian Scott 2012 Dollar GeneralBrian Scott / No. 11 Dollar General Toyota Preview Drive4COPD 300 at Daytona International Speedway� No. 11 Dollar General Toyota News and Notes: � � � � �BRIAN SCOTT BACK ON TRACK WITH JGR:�The�2012 season marks Brian Scott?s second full season with Joe Gibbs Racing. In 2011, the 24-year-old Boise, Idaho...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/21/brian-scott-2012-nns-drive4copd-300-race-preview/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=brian-scott-2012-nns-drive4copd-300-race-preview

Randy Joseph Lajoie Kevin Paul Lepage William Ashton Lewis Jr Sterling Burton Marlin Mark Anthony Martin Jeremy Allan Mayfield

INDYCAR: Filippi Hoping To Make Switch To America

2012-02-22T17:00:00.001-08:00

Italy?s 2011 GP2 runner-up tells SPEED.com he?s now focused on joining the IZOD IndyCar Series, and hopes to do so as teammate to Takuma Sato.

Source: http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/indycar-luca-filippi-hoping-to-make-switch-to-america/

Bruno Giacomelli Dick Gibson Gimax Richie Ginther Yves Giraud Cabantous Ignazio Giunti

Report: Hertz urges government to oversee rental car recalls

2012-02-22T14:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Government/Legal, Safety

In the rental car industry, if a vehicle is on the lot it isn't making any money. The same is true for any vehicle in the shop for repairs, including vehicles that are recalled by automakers. That has created a bit of a conundrum for rental car companies, and the drive for profits can lead to vehicles getting rented that should be getting repaired.

The Detroit Bureau reports that Hertz is trying to change that. In fact, Hertz has taken the drastic step of asking the government to enact new regulations to place a priority on getting recalled vehicles repaired as soon as possible. Hertz has had to take this step because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration currently has no authority over the industry. NHTSA has been watching the rental car companies from afar since a 2010 accident that occurred as a result of a vehicle defect that didn't get repaired because of rental demand.

The Hertz pitch may just work, as a pair of high-ranking legislatures will reportedly introduce legislation to regulate the rental car industry. It makes sense that Hertz is looking to level the playing field, since the rental company already has a policy in place that stipulates that recalled vehicles must be fixed before being rented out.

Hertz urges government to oversee rental car recalls originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/hertz-urges-government-to-oversee-rental-car-recalls/

Cuth Harrison Brian Hart Gene Hartley Masahiro Hasemi Naoki Hattori Paul Hawkins

Kenny Wallace No. 09 Family Farmers Toyota Camry Daytona International Speedway Preview

2012-02-22T11:00:00.001-08:00

Kenny Wallace - Photo Credit: Tom Pennington / Getty Images for NASCARKenny Wallace No. 09 Family Farmers Toyota Camry Event Preview Fact Sheet Event / Date: DRIVE4COPD 300 – February 25, 2011 Venue: Daytona International Speedway Notes: This Week’s Family Farmers Toyota … Kenny Wallace will pilot RAB Racing Chassis No. 38 in the DRIVE4COPD...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/21/kenny-wallace-no-09-family-farmers-toyota-camry-daytona-international-speedway-preview/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=kenny-wallace-no-09-family-farmers-toyota-camry-daytona-international-speedway-preview

Frank Gardner Billy Garrett Jo Gartner Tony Gaze Geki Olivier Gendebien

Nothing to Fear But Drivers? Lack of Fear

2012-02-22T08:00:00.001-08:00

Recently, I shared with a car enthusiast friend that I would never enjoy driving as much as he did, in part because cars scared me a little. I had experienced crashes and lost loved ones to them, I explained, which had a lasting effect. This struck him as both silly (who?s afraid of cars?) and [...]

Source: http://dc.streetsblog.org/2012/02/17/nothing-to-fear-but-drivers-lack-of-fear/

Michael Duane Bliss Kurt Thomas Busch Kyle Thomas Busch Jeffrey Tyler Burton Richard Allen Craven Kerry Dale Earnhardt

New Season and High Expectations for New Nationwide Series Team at Kyle Busch Motorsports

2012-02-22T05:00:00.001-08:00

Kyle Busch (L) and Kurt Busch (R) drivers of the No. 54 Monster Energy Toyota Camry For Kyle Busch Motosports In The NASCAR Nationwide Series For 2012MOORESVILLE, N.C. (February 21, 2012) -�Kyle Busch is anxious to see his team’s hard work pay off in the season-opening DRIVE4COPD 300 at Daytona International Speedway this Saturday. Expectations...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/21/new-season-and-high-expectations-for-new-nationwide-series-team-at-kyle-busch-motorsports/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-season-and-high-expectations-for-new-nationwide-series-team-at-kyle-busch-motorsports

Gregory Jack Biffle David Lee Blaney Michael Duane Bliss Kurt Thomas Busch Kyle Thomas Busch Jeffrey Tyler Burton

Video: Watch this hapless Porsche 911 get extracted from wet cement

2012-02-22T02:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Videos, Porsche, Humor

Yes, that is a Porsche 911. Yes, that is fresh concrete. No, this is not some uber-powerful aftermarket-tuned car that just liquified the San Francisco pavement underneath - the Porsche was driven into this predicament.

Now before we start passing judgment on this poor soul, a driver who has so obviously burned more than his share of karmic bridges, let's just pause to thank him or her, both for providing us the enjoyment of this video and also for upholding certain reputations.

And let us also remember that the next time we're stuck in traffic because of road construction, to just put some Michael McDonald on the stereo and chill out, rather than trying to pass everyone by driving through the construction lane and getting stuck in fresh concrete.

To watch the whole video, which does contain some NSFW language, click past the jump.

Continue reading Watch this hapless Porsche 911 get extracted from wet cement

Watch this hapless Porsche 911 get extracted from wet cement originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/watch-this-hapless-porsche-911-get-extracted-from-wet-cement/

Horace Gould Jean Marc Gounon Emmanuel de Graffenried Lucas di Grassi Cecil Green Keith Greene

Brian Scott, 2012 NNS DRIVE4COPD 300 Race Preview

2012-02-21T23:00:00.001-08:00

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/21/brian-scott-2012-nns-drive4copd-300-race-preview/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=brian-scott-2012-nns-drive4copd-300-race-preview

Bobby Grim Romain Grosjean Olivier Grouillard Brian Gubby André Guelfi Miguel Ángel Guerra

Cuomo Willing to Wait for Tappan Zee Loan, But Not for Tappan Zee Transit

2012-02-21T19:00:00.001-08:00

Andrew Cuomo inspecting the Tappan Zee Bridge in 2010. The governor seems willing to delay construction on its replacement to get a federal loan, but not to add transit. Photo: Angel Franco/Newsday
Using a federal loan to finance $2 billion of the cost of the Tappan Zee Bridge could delay construction work significantly, warns trade journal [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/16/cuomo-willing-to-wait-for-tappan-zee-loan-but-not-for-tappan-zee-transit/

Dick Gibson Gimax Richie Ginther Yves Giraud Cabantous Ignazio Giunti Timo Glock

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-21T16:00:00.001-08:00

Botched NYPD Investigation a Gift for Unlicensed Driver Who Killed Clara Heyworth (Gothamist)
Hit-and-Run Killer of Staten Island Cyclist Ronald Tillman Still at Large (Advance)
Off-Duty Police Sergeant Hits Parked Car in the Bronx, Refuses to Take Breath Test (News)
Tri-State Launches Radio Campaign for Tappan Zee Transit (MTR)
Bronxites Wary of Truck Traffic From FreshDirect Harlem River Yards [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/21/todays-headlines-1329/

Hubert Hahne Mike Hailwood Mika Häkkinen Bruce Halford Jim Hall Duncan Hamilton

MAKE Motorsports Heads ?Eastbound & Down? for Daytona NNS Event

2012-02-21T13:00:00.001-08:00

NNS No. 50 Eastbound & Down / MAKE Motorsports ChevroletHBO sponsors Shelby-based team at Daytona in celebration of the comedy series? season three New crew chief Zakalowski, sponsor Gulfcoast Software join team� SHELBY, N.C. (February 21, 2012) ? On February 25, NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) team MAKE Motorsports will kick off the 2012 season with...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/21/make-motorsports-heads-eastbound-down-for-daytona-nns-event/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=make-motorsports-heads-eastbound-down-for-daytona-nns-event

Virgil Ernest Irvan III Kenny Dale Irwin Jr Dale Arnold Jarrett Jimmie Kenneth Johnson Kasey Kenneth Kahne Matthew Roy Kenseth

CUP: Kahne Arrives At The Top

2012-02-21T10:00:00.001-08:00

Long considered a major player, Kasey Kahne finally gets his best shot at Hendrick Motorsports?

Source: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-kasey-kahne-arrives-at-the-nascar-top-with-hendrick-motorsports/

Gene Hartley Masahiro Hasemi Naoki Hattori Paul Hawkins Mike Hawthorn Boy Hayje

Video: Mazda CX-5 joins the cast of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax

2012-02-21T07:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Crossover, Mazda

Aston Martin has the chap Bond, Acura has its Avengers and now Mazda has its own movie vehicle, Dr. Seuss' The Lorax. The computer-generated film from Universal will feature a "Seuss-ified" Mazda CX-5 rolling through a forest of lollipop-like truffula trees.

It's a slightly strange movie for a car company to call its own, since the original book was a enviromentalist tale and the Lorax - who spoke for the truffula trees against the industrial ambitions of the Once-ler - complained even more when trucks began rolling into the forest. The case is aided by the fact that Universal got rid of that storyline almost completely, and Mazda's Skyactiv credentials are what's really in play here.

Follow the jump for Mazda's 45-second commercial for the CX-5 and the movie, as well as a press release on its donations to the National Education Association.

Continue reading Mazda CX-5 joins the cast of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax

Mazda CX-5 joins the cast of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/20/mazda-cx-5-joins-the-cast-of-dr-seuss-the-lorax/

Richie Ginther Yves Giraud Cabantous Ignazio Giunti Timo Glock Helm Glöckler Paco Godia

INDYCAR: Barber Test Update, Monday

2012-02-21T04:00:00.001-08:00

Team Penske's Will Power goes fastest on Day 1 as Dario Franchitti emerges unhurt after ending his day against the Turn 1 barrier.

Source: http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/indycar-barber-test-update-monday/

David Lee Blaney Michael Duane Bliss Kurt Thomas Busch Kyle Thomas Busch Jeffrey Tyler Burton Richard Allen Craven

NYPD?s Lax Crash Investigations May Violate State Law

2012-02-21T01:00:00.001-08:00

Deputy Chief John Cassidy, executive officer of NYPD's transportation bureau, and other department higher-ups at today's City Council hearing on traffic enforcement. Photo: John del Signore/Gothamist
Unacceptable. Absurd. “Next to useless.”
Those were just a few terms employed by City Council members today describing the NYPD approach to traffic enforcement. During a four-hour hearing, so packed with [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/15/nypds-lax-crash-investigations-may-violate-state-law/

William Clyde Elliott Jeffrey Michael Gordon Charles Robert Hamilton IV Charles Robert Hamilton V Kevin Michael Harvick Virgil Ernest Irvan III

Chicago: U.S. Army's CERV puts a machine gun on a "green" military vehicle

2012-02-20T22:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Military

It used to be that we couldn't even find a picture of the U.S. Army's Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle (CERV), but times have changed.

At the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, the Army's Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) displayed the CERV, which uses a diesel-hybrid "Q-Force" powertrain from Quantum that Quantum says, "saves taxpayer dollars and - most importantly - saves Soldiers' lives."

With a top speed of 80 miles per hour and a "run-silent" range of eight miles (we assume this means all-electric range), the CERV prototype can produce over 5,000 pound-feet of torque and go up hills with up to 60-percent grades. It does all this while using 25 percent less fuel, which is critical when you have to pay up to $400 a gallon to use the stuff in theater.

The Army says that today's soldier uses an average of 22 gallons of gasoline a day. In World War II, it was one gallon a day.

Continue reading U.S. Army's CERV puts a machine gun on a "green" military vehicle

U.S. Army's CERV puts a machine gun on a "green" military vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/us-army-cerv/

Eddie Keizan Al Keller Joe Kelly Dave Kennedy Loris Kessel Bruce Kessler

Report: Analyst predicts Fisker's demise; spokesman says that's premature

2012-02-20T19:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Government/Legal, Earnings/Financials, Rumormill, Fisker, Electric

Hiccup or death knell?

That's what watchers of California-based automaker Fisker Automotive are trying to figure out after the maker of the Karma plug-in luxury sedan laid off about 65 workers and contractors in Delaware and California while renegotiating loan details with the U.S. Department of Energy. Fisker, which was to receive a $529 million loan from the DOE, has received less than $200 million of that, with the fate of the balance in question because Fisker has not met certain loan conditions due to production delays.

Here's the death knell perspective: With the Obama Administration under political pressure to reduce spending, Fisker is unlikely to receive the remaining $336 million, Wunderlich Securities analyst Theodore O'Neill said in an interview with the Boston Globe. Without that funding, Fisker will go out of business, O'Neill said, adding that A123 Systems, which makes lithium-ion batteries for Fisker, will also likely go under.

But no, say others, the problem is temporary. Investment advice site Seeking Alpha, for example, says A123 is a "buy." Fisker also downplayed the issue, with its spokesman, Roger Ormisher, calling the shutdown a "bump in the road" in an interview with The Wall Street Journal. Ormisher said production of the Karma hasn't been impacted, nothing that Fisker has delivered about 250 vehicles, and that the remaining DOE funds are to be used purely for the lower-priced Fisker Nina vehicle.

Fisker said in a statement last week that the company, which most recently received cash from the loan last May, is in talks with the DOE and raised $260 million in equity in late 2011. Fisker is pursuing "alternative funding sources," the company said in a Feb. 6 statement.

Additionally, the Orange County Register reported last week that a Fisker investor is suing the company for fraud. The plaintiff, Daniel Wray, invested $210,000 in Fisker and said the company informed him in January that he had to invest another $84,000 or risk losing the rights he gained with the original stock purchase. Ormisher told the newspaper at the time that he wasn't aware of the lawsuit.

Analyst predicts Fisker's demise; spokesman says that's premature originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/analyst-predicts-fiskers-demise-spokesman-says-thats-prematur/

Chris Irwin Jean Pierre Jabouille Jimmy Jackson Joe James John James Jean Pierre Jarier

Video: Mazda debuts "Revolution" ad to promote new Skyactiv tech

2012-02-20T16:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Technology, Videos, Crossover, Mazda

Mazda hasn't turned its back on "Zoom-Zoom" in the least, but from now on the double onomatopoeia takes its orders from the company's SkyActiv technologies. Mazda has been prepping us for the suite of engineering innovations that it plans to use to make its cars, like the 2013 CX-5, more Earth-friendly but just as much fun to drive, and company CEO Takashi Yamanouchi got big into it during the LA Auto Show.

The first commercials to publicize SkyActiv are here, in 30- and 60-second flavors, and you'll find them along with a press release after the jump.

Continue reading Mazda debuts "Revolution" ad to promote new Skyactiv tech

Mazda debuts "Revolution" ad to promote new Skyactiv tech originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/20/mazda-debuts-revolution-ad-to-promote-new-skyactiv-tech/

Parker Kligerman Trevor Bayne Out! Pet Care Toyota Jason Leffler David Carl Allison Gregory Jack Biffle

Official: Mini reveals Clubvan Concept ahead of Geneva debut

2012-02-20T12:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Work, Hatchback, Mini

It's a Mini. It's a van. But it's not a minivan. That's because the sort of van we're talking about here is a panel van - think of the Ford Transit Connect or recently departed Chevrolet HHR Panel - a vehicle with two seats up front, a partitian behind the cockpit and nothing but a flat load floor in back. These little workaday runabouts are immensely popular in Europe, and Mini has decided to get in on the action with its latest concept, the Clubvan, which will officially debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Seeing this concept confirms earlier rumors about a potential Clubman-based panel van, and aside from the removal of the rear seats and the addition of a stainless steel honeycomb partitian, there isn't much else to separate the Clubvan concept from its passenger-friendly Clubman kin. That makes us think this concept could rather easily make it to production.

But unlike more work-focused vans, the side walls and load floor of the Clubvan are lined with anthracite-colored cloth rather than a durable plastic compound. Then again, Mini is touting the Clubvan as the perfect fleet vehicle for fashion designers and gallery owners rather than drywall contractors or heating and cooling repairmen. The Clubman's five-door layout (that's a driver's door, passenger door, passenger-side suicide door, and dual barn doors out back) remains intact, and Mini has added six attachment loops throughout the rear cargo area to secure goods while they're being transported.

So, why a panel van? The company states that the Clubvan "combines the driving fun for that Mini is renowned with increased load-carrying capability," and that, "The Mini experience will therefore find its way into new areas of life, the brand's distinctive character gaining new popularity among target groups not previously on the Mini radar." We'll definitely be checking this one out in Geneva in a few weeks, but in the meantime, hit the jump for the official press release and scroll through our attached image gallery to see the Clubvan concept inside and out.

Continue reading Mini reveals Clubvan Concept ahead of Geneva debut

Mini reveals Clubvan Concept ahead of Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/18/mini-reveals-clubvan-concept-ahead-of-geneva-debut/

Olivier Gendebien Marc Gené Elmer George Bob Gerard Gerino Gerini Peter Gethin

VIDEO: Robin Miller's IndyCar Update On SPEED Center

2012-02-20T09:00:00.001-08:00

SPEED's Robin Miller visits with SPEED Center host Adam Alexander to discuss some of the most recent topics of interest in the IZOD IndyCar Series.

Source: http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/video-robin-miller-indycar-update-on-speed-center/

Jim Hurtubise Gus Hutchison Jacky Ickx Yuji Ide Jesús Iglesias Taki Inoue

VIDEO: Robin Miller's IndyCar Update On SPEED Center

2012-02-20T06:00:00.001-08:00

SPEED's Robin Miller visits with SPEED Center host Adam Alexander to discuss some of the most recent topics of interest in the IZOD IndyCar Series.

Source: http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/video-robin-miller-indycar-update-on-speed-center/

Helmuth Koinigg Heikki Kovalainen Kevin Harvick Armour Vienna Sausage Kroger Chevrolet Clint Bowyer Zaxby s Chevrolet

Report: Small town up in arms over armored transport vehicle purchase [w/video]

2012-02-20T03:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal, Military

Despite tight budgets at all levels of government, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is still giving local law enforcement agencies military vehicles. According to a report in The Huffington Post, a small town in New Hampshire was set to receive an armored personnel vehicle before one local resident launched a petition drive to block the acquisition.

The Keene, NH, police department was going to get its own Lenco BearCat, a vehicle the town's mayor reportedly described as a "tank." However, citizens in the town of 23,000 revolted, according to the article, with nearly 100 of them packing a city council meeting in opposition. Critics said the vehicle promoted violence, and cited a promotional video for the BearCat that shows gun-wielding cops using one of the armored trucks to knock down the door of a house and spray tear gas inside. The issue is scheduled to come up again at next month's meeting.

A $285,933 grant from DHS would pay for the eight-ton military truck. The Huffington Post cites a report from the Center for Investigative Reporting stating that $34 billion of similar grants have been issued since Sept. 11, 2001.

A Lenco spokesman criticized some of the citizens who spoke out against his firm's vehicle, calling them "crazy" and saying, "When a Lenco Bearcat shows up at a crime scene where a suicidal killer is holding hostages, it doesn't show up with a cannon. It shows up with a negotiator. Our trucks save lives," according to the article.

Click past the jump to watch the Lenco BearCat promotional video, featuring AC-DC's "Thunderstruck."

Continue reading Small town up in arms over armored transport vehicle purchase [w/video]

Small town up in arms over armored transport vehicle purchase [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/small-town-up-in-arms-over-armored-transport-vehicle-purchase-w/

Jean Marc Gounon Emmanuel de Graffenried Lucas di Grassi Cecil Green Keith Greene Masten Gregory

JD Motorsports to field second NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2012

2012-02-20T00:00:00.001-08:00

JD MotorsportsGAFFNEY, S.C. (February 8, 2012) ? To better strengthen its overall program, JD Motorsports will field a second car for the 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series season. Johnny Davis, owner of JD Motorsports, will race a No. 4 Chevrolet to double their efforts on the track this season. Mike Wallace will continue to drive the...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/08/jd-motorsports-to-field-second-nascar-nationwide-series-team-in-2012/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jd-motorsports-to-field-second-nascar-nationwide-series-team-in-2012

Elmer George Bob Gerard Gerino Gerini Peter Gethin Piercarlo Ghinzani Bruno Giacomelli

Cuomo Willing to Wait for Tappan Zee Loan, But Not for Tappan Zee Transit

2012-02-19T21:00:00.001-08:00

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/16/cuomo-willing-to-wait-for-tappan-zee-loan-but-not-for-tappan-zee-transit/

Yuji Ide Jesús Iglesias Taki Inoue Innes Ireland Eddie Irvine Chris Irwin

NYC?s Most Irresistible Street Safety Campaign

2012-02-19T18:00:00.001-08:00

Are these New York’s youngest traffic safety advocates?
Budding filmmakers Benny, Joseph and Yunhee have created an appeal for safer streets that is equal parts poignant, funny and Dylan-inspired ? and entirely adorable. Take a look.

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/17/nycs-most-irresistible-street-safety-campaign/

Willi Heeks Nick Heidfeld Theo Helfrich Mack Hellings Brian Henton Johnny Herbert

Productive Exchange of Ideas Breaks Out at Fort Greene Plaza Workshop

2012-02-19T15:00:00.001-08:00

This piece of alarmism was produced by an entity known as FACT, believe it or not.
The reports are in, and it seems like Fort Greene residents were able to have a productive workshop with NYC DOT and the Fulton Area Business Alliance (FAB) last night to discuss the new public plaza planned for Fowler Square. [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/17/productive-exchange-of-ideas-breaks-out-at-fort-greene-plaza-workshop/

Paul Hawkins Mike Hawthorn Boy Hayje Willi Heeks Nick Heidfeld Theo Helfrich

F1: Mercedes Team Tests At Barcelona

2012-02-19T12:00:00.001-08:00

Mercedes makes up for lost time with private W03 test...

Source: http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-mercedes-team-tests-at-barcelona/

Beppe Gabbiani Bertrand Gachot Patrick Gaillard Divina Galica Nanni Galli Oscar Alfredo Gálvez

Video: Mercedes-Benz co-opts car keys for clever interactive subway ads

2012-02-19T09:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Truck, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

It's quite apparent that technology, in addition to helping us avoid advertising (thank you, DVR), has simultaneously enabled much more of it, and in many more places. And when used properly, technology has made some ads a lot more interesting.

Mercedes-Benz constructed an interactive ad for its Viano minivan in Berlin's Friedrichstrasse subway station. To promote the chasmic space inside the people-hauler, the ad allowed riders waiting for trains to open the door of a virtual Viano using their own car keys, then watch what kinds of things climbed out and how many of them there were. Follow the jump to check out the video.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz co-opts car keys for clever interactive subway ads

Mercedes-Benz co-opts car keys for clever interactive subway ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/18/mercedes-benz-co-opts-car-keys-for-clever-interactive-subway-ads/

Helm Glöckler Paco Godia Carel Godin de Beaufort Christian Goethals Paul Goldsmith José Froilán González

T.A. Calls For Interagency Traffic Safety Task Force at City Council Hearing

2012-02-19T06:00:00.001-08:00

The City Council is holding a first-of-its-kind hearing on NYPD crash investigations today, a joint effort of the transportation and public safety committees. Based on the early reports via Twitter, it sounds like council members are holding NYPD’s feet to the fire for failing to investigate serious crashes and letting motorists off the hook for [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/15/t-a-calls-for-interagency-traffic-safety-task-force-at-city-council-hearing/

Ignazio Giunti Timo Glock Helm Glöckler Paco Godia Carel Godin de Beaufort Christian Goethals

Tappan Zee Costs $1.4 Billion More in Cuomo?s Loan App Than in Cuomo?s EIS

2012-02-19T03:00:00.001-08:00

Andrew Cuomo inspecting the Tappan Zee Bridge in 2010. Since then, Cuomo has taken transit off the plans for the bridge. Now, costs for the highway-only bridge appear to be rising again. Photo: Angel Franco/Newsday
As part of an application for a $2 billion federal loan to help pay for a replacement Tappan Zee Bridge that [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/15/tappan-zee-costs-1-4-billion-more-in-cuomos-loan-app-than-in-cuomos-eis/

Phil Hill Peter Hirt David Hobbs Gary Hocking Ingo Hoffmann Bill Holland

Tonight: Help Shape the Future of Fort Greene?s Fowler Square

2012-02-19T00:00:00.001-08:00

There just aren't many reasons to drive on the block of South Elliott Place between Fort Greene Park and Fowler Square. Image: Google Maps
NYC DOT, Council Member Tish James, Community Board 2, and the Fulton Area Business Alliance are hosting a community workshop tonight to gather ideas for a new plaza at Fowler Square — [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/16/tonight-help-shape-the-future-of-fort-greenes-fowler-square/

Yuji Ide Jesús Iglesias Taki Inoue Innes Ireland Eddie Irvine Chris Irwin

Productive Exchange of Ideas Breaks Out at Fort Greene Plaza Workshop

2012-02-18T21:00:00.001-08:00

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/17/productive-exchange-of-ideas-breaks-out-at-fort-greene-plaza-workshop/

Dale Arnold Jarrett Jimmie Kenneth Johnson Kasey Kenneth Kahne Matthew Roy Kenseth Alan Dennis Kulwicki Travis Wade Kvapil

Study: Teen driver deaths increase despite decrease in overall fatalities

2012-02-18T18:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Safety

This past December we reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had found traffic fatalities in 2010 were at their lowest level since 1949. Unfortunately, another study released yesterday by the Governors Highway Safety Association reveals that the number of 16- and 17-year-old driver deaths is headed in the opposite direction.

While NHTSA has yet to release overall numbers for motor vehicle deaths in 2011, projections for the first six months have overall fatalities declining 0.9 percent. The number of teen driver deaths during that time, however, increased 11 percent from 190 the year before to 211, according to the report. The study is based on preliminary data from all 50 states and the District of Columbia that counts the number of drivers in this age group who died behind the wheel during the first six months of 2011. The states with the highest increase in teen driver deaths during that time were Florida, Texas and North Carolina.

While data for the last half of 2011 wasn't included in the report, if the trend continued through New Year's, it would mark the end of eight straight years of decline fatalities for this age group. As for why it's happening, the researchers behind the study specifically cite the benefits of Graduate Driver Licensing laws, which have been around in many states since the '90s, finally leveling off.

Teen driver deaths increase despite decrease in overall fatalities originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/teen-driver-deaths-increase-despite-decrease-in-overall-fataliti/

Graham Hill Phil Hill Peter Hirt David Hobbs Gary Hocking Ingo Hoffmann

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-18T15:00:00.001-08:00

Jasmine Herron Killer on Trial, But Only For Driving With Suspended License (News)
Transpo Experts: Progress, Congestion Pricing, Must Outlast Sadik-Khan, Bloomberg (Capital)
DOT Will Install and Evaluate Fowler Square Plaza (Patch)
Joan McDonald Continues to Cite�Unexplained $5B Cost�For Tappan Zee Transit (City/State)
After Years of Advocacy, NYS DOT Agrees to Make Hempstead Turnpike Safer (MTR)
Subway Service Essential to [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/17/todays-headlines-1327/

Masten Gregory Cliff Griffith Georges Grignard Bobby Grim Romain Grosjean Olivier Grouillard

VIDEO: SX - Dallas Preview

2012-02-18T12:00:00.001-08:00

Ralph Sheehen called into SPEED Center to preview Saturday night's Monster Energy Supercross round from Dallas.

Source: http://moto-racing.speedtv.com/article/video-sx-dallas-preview/

Eddie Irvine Chris Irwin Jean Pierre Jabouille Jimmy Jackson Joe James John James

Followup: Lexus launches TORI 500 iPhone app racing game [w/video]

2012-02-18T09:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Sedan, Etc., Lexus, Toys/Games, Celebrities, Luxury

Apparently, being the Official Automotive Marketing partner of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit property was just the excuse Lexus needed to get in touch with swimsuit model Tori Praver. And we can hardly blame them.

But what could Praver's statuesque body and perfectly feminine features have to do with cars, you ask? That's a very good question, and it's one we're sure the Lexus marketing team spent hours considering. The answer, interestingly enough, is all in the curves.

Following up on the video Lexus brought us showing two racers drifting a 2013 Lexus GS F Sport around a makeshift track drawn around the gigantor-size body of Ms. Praver, the luxury wing of the Toyota conglomerate has delivered a video game of similar intent for Apple's ever-popular range of iDevices.

The TORI 500 racing app allows players to pilot GS sedans around digitized 3D renderings of Praver's body. Sounds... curvy. Check out the official press release after the break, where we've also reposted the video of Praver and the (real-life) racing drivers.

Continue reading Lexus launches TORI 500 iPhone app racing game [w/video]

Lexus launches TORI 500 iPhone app racing game [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/lexus-launches-tori-500-iphone-app-racing-game-w-video/

Kevin Michael Harvick Virgil Ernest Irvan III Kenny Dale Irwin Jr Dale Arnold Jarrett Jimmie Kenneth Johnson Kasey Kenneth Kahne

T.A. Calls For Interagency Traffic Safety Task Force at City Council Hearing

2012-02-18T06:00:00.001-08:00

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/15/t-a-calls-for-interagency-traffic-safety-task-force-at-city-council-hearing/

Kyle Eugene Petty Floyd Anthony Raines Scott Russell Riggs Hiroshi Fushida Beppe Gabbiani Bertrand Gachot

CUP: Truex Grabs Bud Shootout Pole

2012-02-18T03:00:00.001-08:00

Martin Truex will start from the pole in Saturday night?s Budweiser Shootout...

Source: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-martin-truex-grabs-bud-shootout-pole-daytona-nascar/

Beppe Gabbiani Bertrand Gachot Patrick Gaillard Divina Galica Nanni Galli Oscar Alfredo Gálvez

2012 NNS Daytona Media Day Q&A with Dodge Motorsports Driver, Sam Hornish, Jr.

2012-02-18T00:00:00.001-08:00

Sam Hornish Jr. - Photo Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCARSAM HORNISH JR. (No. 12 Alliance Truck Parts/WURTH Dodge Challenger R/T) WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ENTERING THIS SEASON? �?I?m really excited about it. �I feel like we?ve got a great opportunity with our Alliance Truck Parts and WURTH Group Dodge Challenger. �I just feel like...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/16/2012-nns-daytona-media-day-qa-with-dodge-motorsports-driver-sam-hornish-jr/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2012-nns-daytona-media-day-qa-with-dodge-motorsports-driver-sam-hornish-jr

Matthew Roy Kenseth Alan Dennis Kulwicki Travis Wade Kvapil Robert Allen Labonte Terrence Lee Labonte Randy Joseph Lajoie

What It Looks Like to Walk the Length of the BQE

2012-02-17T21:00:00.001-08:00

Here’s a project we’re glad not to be doing (but we’re thrilled someone is). Gallery owner Robert Hult is spending today walking the route of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, not on the highway but as close alongside it as possible, and posting regular photos to his Twitter account.
Taken collectively, the snapshots create a real vision of [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/17/what-it-looks-like-to-walk-the-length-of-the-bqe/

James Christopher McMurray Casey James Mears Juan Pablo Montoya Joseph Francis Nemechek III Ryan Joseph Newman Kyle Eugene Petty

2012 NNS Daytona Media Day Q&A with Toyota Motorsports Driver, Travis Pastrana

2012-02-17T18:00:00.001-08:00

Travis Pastrana, action sports legend and co-owner of as well as driver for Pastrana Waltrip Racing, speaks with the media - Photo Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCARTRAVIS PASTRANA How does the ankle injury you suffered last year compare to other injuries you’ve experienced? “This is the longest injury I’ve ever had. I know...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/16/2012-nns-daytona-media-day-qa-with-toyota-motorsports-driver-travis-pastrana/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2012-nns-daytona-media-day-qa-with-toyota-motorsports-driver-travis-pastrana

Floyd Anthony Raines Scott Russell Riggs Hiroshi Fushida Beppe Gabbiani Bertrand Gachot Patrick Gaillard

HendrickCars.com To Sponsor Phoenix Racing, JR Motorsports And Richard Childress Racing In Select 2012 NASCAR Events

2012-02-17T15:00:00.001-08:00

Richard Childress Racing (RCR)CHARLOTTE, N.C., February 13, 2012 – HendrickCars.com will sponsor three NASCAR teams in select races in early 2012. The sponsorships will promote the new-look retail automotive website, which re-launched Feb. 1, and coincide with the HendrickCars.com “2012 Indy Dream Weekend” sweepstakes. The program will kick off during Speedweeks in Daytona Beach, Fla.,...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/sprintcup/02/13/hendrickcars-com-to-sponsor-phoenix-racing-jr-motorsports-and-richard-childress-racing-in-select-2012-nascar-events/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=hendrickcars-com-to-sponsor-phoenix-racing-jr-motorsports-and-richard-childress-racing-in-select-2012-nascar-events

Clint Bowyer Zaxby s Chevrolet Brad Keselowski Ruby Tuesday Dodge Carl Edwards Copart Ford

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-17T12:00:00.001-08:00

Read All About NYPD’s Failure to Investigate Crashes (Gothamist, NYT, News, CapNY, WNYC, NY1, VV)
Post Readers Get the In-Depth Story
Erika Lefevre: “I Do Not Believe Drivers Who Cause Deaths Should Be Able to Walk Away” (Bklyn Paper)
NYPD Issued More Summonses to Cyclists Than to Truckers Last Year (TransNat)
Tri-State: State Docs Don’t Show How “Future Transit” [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/16/todays-headlines-1326/

Dick Gibson Gimax Richie Ginther Yves Giraud Cabantous Ignazio Giunti Timo Glock

Report: Chrysler abandons plan seeking more federal loans

2012-02-17T09:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Government/Legal, Chrysler, GM, Earnings/Financials

The Detroit News reports Chrysler is walking away from the company's pursuit of low-interest Department of Energy loans. The automaker originally applied for an $8.55 billion loan when it was still under Cerberus Capital Management, though the figure had since shrunk to $3.5 billion. The DOE, meanwhile, said it was considering a much smaller $2 billion loan with additional restrictions than were previously negotiated. The loan period would also be significantly shorter. Chrysler had sought the funds as a way to reduce the company's interest payments, which would have dropped by nearly 5 percentage points had the deal gone through.

Instead, Chrysler will use its own funds for capital improvements. The report says the company has nearly $11 billion in liquidity, though that figure includes $1.3 billion in an undrawn private loan.

Chrysler isn't the only automaker to walk away from DOE loans. General Motors pulled its application for a $14.4 billion loan last January. The funds would have gone toward retooling. The DOE and the Obama Administration have been hesitant to hand out more government money after the solar panel company Solyndra LLC received around $528 million loans before going bankrupt.

Chrysler abandons plan seeking more federal loans originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/chrysler-abandons-plan-seeking-more-federal-loans/

Stefan Johansson Eddie Johnson Leslie Johnson Bruce Johnstone Alan Jones Tom Jones

Cardin-Cochran Amendment Would Boost Local Control of Bike-Ped Funding

2012-02-17T06:00:00.001-08:00

Image: America Bikes
We mentioned it briefly last week, but the amendment to the Senate transportation bill from Maryland Democrat Ben Cardin and Mississippi Republican Thad Cochran is a critical one to track. The amendment would give local governments, rather than state DOTs, access to most federal bike-ped funding.
The way the Senate transportation bill, MAP-21, is [...]

Source: http://dc.streetsblog.org/2012/02/14/cardin-cochran-amendment-would-boost-local-control-of-transpo-spending/

Kenny Dale Irwin Jr Dale Arnold Jarrett Jimmie Kenneth Johnson Kasey Kenneth Kahne Matthew Roy Kenseth Alan Dennis Kulwicki

After Hearing, Vallone and Vacca Support Strengthening Careless Driving Law

2012-02-17T03:00:00.001-08:00

This morning’s City Council hearing on traffic crash investigations is already having an impact. Public Safety Committee Chair Peter Vallone, Jr. and Transportation Committee Chair James Vacca announced today that they will introduce a resolution in support of Albany legislation to make it clear that the police can enforce the state’s careless driving law.
Right now, [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/15/after-hearing-vallone-and-vacca-support-strengthening-careless-driving-law/

Loris Kessel Bruce Kessler Nicolas Kiesa Leo Kinnunen Danny Kladis Hans Klenk

HendrickCars.com To Sponsor Phoenix Racing, JR Motorsports And Richard Childress Racing In Select 2012 NASCAR Events

2012-02-17T00:00:00.001-08:00

Trevor Bayne Out! Pet Care Toyota Jason Leffler David Carl Allison Gregory Jack Biffle David Lee Blaney

JR Motorsports Signs Sponsorship Deal With Ingersoll Rand

2012-02-16T21:00:00.001-08:00

“Partnership with global industrial company to be evident on and off the track” JR MotorsportsMOORESVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 15, 2012) ? JR Motorsports announced today the beginning of a strategic sponsorship with Ingersoll Rand, a world leader in creating and sustaining safe, comfortable and efficient environments. The sponsorship features a one-race primary sponsorship of the No....more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/15/jr-motorsports-signs-sponsorship-deal-with-ingersoll-rand/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jr-motorsports-signs-sponsorship-deal-with-ingersoll-rand

Peter Gethin Piercarlo Ghinzani Bruno Giacomelli Dick Gibson Gimax Richie Ginther

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-16T18:00:00.001-08:00

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/16/todays-headlines-1326/

Piercarlo Ghinzani Bruno Giacomelli Dick Gibson Gimax Richie Ginther Yves Giraud Cabantous

Official: Subaru Canada commissions brand-inspired artwork for contest

2012-02-16T15:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Etc., Subaru, Canada, Design/Style, Toronto Auto Show

Subaru Canada ran a contest with the artist web site deviantART to see how wild imaginations would treat the theme of Driving Confidence. For three weeks, creators in any medium were asked to upload "original creations that celebrate the bold design, superior handling, and meticulous engineering that Subaru vehicles are renowned for."

The contest specifically instructed artists to "push your creativity to the limit," which is why there are plenty of images out of our species and galaxy. The first place winner (pictured) won $2,500 for "Born to Rally in the Snow," the second place getter got $1,000 for "Unleash the Beast," third place took $500 for "Subaru Slot Car Set," and the runner-up was "Subaru Impreza WRC Rally 'The Pass 2'."

All of the entries are on display now in a "space-defying gallery" in Subaru's booth at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toroto, and in our gallery of high-res images.

Subaru Canada commissions brand-inspired artwork for contest originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/subaru-canada-commissions-brand-inspired-artwork-for-contest/

Jim Hurtubise Gus Hutchison Jacky Ickx Yuji Ide Jesús Iglesias Taki Inoue

Study: University study shows recalls have hardly hurt Toyota

2012-02-16T12:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Car Buying, Etc., Recalls, Safety, Toyota

If you think Toyota is still reeling from negative opinions stirred up by the company's rash of recalls in 2009, North Carolina State University has some news for you. According to a new study conducted by researchers at the institution, the recalls had "little to no impact" on how buyers see the Japanese automaker. Robert Hammond, an assistant professor of economics at NCSU, says the research specifically looked at the used car market to negate the impact of outside factors like incentives, marketing campaigns and models not associated with the recall to begin with.

The idea was that examining average prices of models affected by recalls associated with sudden acceleration would give researchers an idea of how willing buyers were to pay for the vehicles. Overall, used cars covered by the recall campaigns saw their price decline by a mere two percent. The figure is within the statistical margin of error for the study.

So, what's behind the slow in Toyota sales? Despite an abundance of fleet sales last month that saw the company's figures swell by 7.5 percent over January 2011, Toyota still fell well behind the industry average. With production back on track after last year's earthquake tragedy, the company may have some explaining to do. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading University study shows recalls have hardly hurt Toyota

University study shows recalls have hardly hurt Toyota originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/university-study-shows-recalls-have-hardly-hurt-toyota/

Paco Godia Carel Godin de Beaufort Christian Goethals Paul Goldsmith José Froilán González Oscar González

MAKE Motorsports to run full 2012 NNS season with T.J. Bell

2012-02-16T09:00:00.001-08:00

MAKE Motorsports ThumbnailMAKE Motorsports? #50 Chevrolet will be competing for the 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) championship with driver T.J. Bell and crew chief Brad Parrott. The team, owned by Mark Beaver and Tracy Lowe, has been participating in NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) since 2010 and did a partial NNS season in 2011....more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/02/make-motorsports-to-run-full-2012-nns-season-with-t-j-bell/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=make-motorsports-to-run-full-2012-nns-season-with-t-j-bell

Charles Robert Hamilton V Kevin Michael Harvick Virgil Ernest Irvan III Kenny Dale Irwin Jr Dale Arnold Jarrett Jimmie Kenneth Johnson

Teased: Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera preparing new Disco Volante concept for Geneva

2012-02-16T06:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Alfa Romeo

Mention the names Disco Volante and Touring to connoisseurs of classic Italian automobiles and you're going to need to start handing out bibs.

The Disco Volante, for the uninitiated, is not a rave held inside a convertible Aston Martin, but one of the most beautiful Alfa Romeos ever made. Officially know as the C52, the 1950s-era Alfa prototype - of which only four were ever made - was named Flying Saucer (in Italian) because of its aerodynamic shape. It was based on the Alfa Romeo 1900 but rebodied to its streamlined shape by - you guessed it - Carrozzeria Touring.

That coachbuilder had long since disappeared into obscurity, but was more recently revived to give us some very alluring designs, from concept cars like the Gumpert Tornante and Maserati A8 GCS to coachbuilt conversions of existing vehicles like the Maserati Quattroporte Bellagio Fastback and - perhaps most enticing of all - the Bentley Continental Flying Star.

Now the reborn Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera is preparing to reinterpret the Disco Volante in modern form. The show car set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month is reportedly based on the 8C Competizione (another one of the most beautiful Alfas ever made) so we're expecting the 450 horsepower, 4.7-liter V8 to carry over, though reportedly mated to a paddle-shift transmission.

What we're looking forward to, however, is the form that aims to modernize the design believed by many to have inspired the Jaguar E-Type. All we have to go on for now is the rendering above, but we'll be watching for more.

Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera preparing new Disco Volante concept for Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/carrozzeria-touring-superleggera-preparing-new-disco-volante-con/

Brian Hart Gene Hartley Masahiro Hasemi Naoki Hattori Paul Hawkins Mike Hawthorn

Official: Tesla takes 500 Model X reservations worth $40M, Model S sales also spike

2012-02-16T03:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Crossover, Tesla, Electric

If the prevailing opinion of a new design can be judged by initial sales, then the jury is in on the Tesla Model X. They like it. They really, really like it. From the time the electric crossover was driven out on stage at Tesla Design Studios late Thursday night/early Friday morning until Valentine's Day four days later, the company says it has received over $40 million worth of reservation love.

What that means is that over 500 people have plunked down a significant amount of cash - $5,000 for regular production version or $40,000 for a Signature package - to reserve a vehicle that won't even begin serious production until 2014. Think about that for a moment. Nobody, except a lucky few employees, has even driven the X prototype. Hell, barely anyone has ever taken the wheel of the Model S, with which it shares its platform.

While some of the orders did come from people switching their Model S reservation to the X, Tesla says sedan sales weren't cannibalized. In fact, the company says, sales of the S saw a boost of 30 percent following the big event.

Another indication of sentiment for publicly traded companies like Tesla Motors (TSLA) is its stock price. If you panicked and sold off shares a month ago when the price plunged 20 percent on news of the departure of a couple personnel, you may want to begin kicking yourself now. (Go ahead, we'll wait.) From that $22.79 low, it has climbed to $33.17 (as of this writing). Now, we're not financial experts, but that would seem to indicate that the market likes the company's outlook.

Make your way past the break to read the press release and, if you were unable to see the live presentation of the Model X on Tesla's website, we have that official footage waiting there as well.

Continue reading Tesla takes 500 Model X reservations worth $40M, Model S sales also spike

Tesla takes 500 Model X reservations worth $40M, Model S sales also spike originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/tesla-model-x-reservations-model-s-sales-40-million/

Howden Ganley Frank Gardner Billy Garrett Jo Gartner Tony Gaze Geki

House Transpo Bill Turns Communities Into Collateral Damage

2012-02-16T00:00:00.001-08:00

There’s been a lot of analysis and explanation of how bad the House transportation bill is from a policy standpoint. This proposal takes sound transportation policy, covers it with oil, sets it on fire, and then dances on the ashes.
Seattle transit riders would feel the pain of the House transportation bill, with Sound Transit standing [...]

Source: http://streetsblog.net/2012/02/14/house-transpo-bill-turns-communities-into-collateral-damage/

Kyle Busch Toyota Kimmy Z Line Designs Toyota Parker Kligerman Trevor Bayne Out! Pet Care Toyota

Ford's clever Sports Illustrated Swimsuit ad features phantom model

2012-02-15T21:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Marketing/Advertising, Ford, Design/Style

Capitalizing on the allure of attractive models for automotive advertising is anything but a recent phenomenon. Inventing a supermodel, on the other hand, is one of the more inspired tactics we've stumbled across in recent memory.

According to the marketing gurus at Adweek, Ford has placed a full-page advertisement in the 2012 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition that includes a beautiful blue Mustang posing alongside what appears to be an equally beautiful and scantily clad model named Dalena Henriques. A quick Google search on her name, not surprisingly, brings up dalenahenriques.com as the top result.

Here's where things get a bit tricky. It seems Dalena Henriques may not be a real person at all. A visit to her website shows the stunning brunette in pose after pose with the 2013 Mustang, and her face is never fully in the frame. The Mustang, though, is front and center in every single image. Clever, Ford. Very clever.

Ford's clever Sports Illustrated Swimsuit ad features phantom model originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/fords-clever-sports-illustrated-swimsuit-ad-features-pha/

Ignazio Giunti Timo Glock Helm Glöckler Paco Godia Carel Godin de Beaufort Christian Goethals

Matt Carter Teams Up With Lone Survivor Foundation With Clear Mission; Intent

2012-02-15T18:00:00.001-08:00

Lone Survivor Foundation (LSF)DENVER, North Carolina (February 3, 2012) – - Officials from Matt Carter Racing (MCR) announced today that NASCAR Nationwide Series veteran Matt Carter has teamed up with the Texas-based Lone Survivor Foundation, which will be his charity of choice for the 2012 season. The upcoming season commences with the season opener on...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/03/matt-carter-teams-up-with-lone-survivor-foundation-with-clear-mission-intent/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=matt-carter-teams-up-with-lone-survivor-foundation-with-clear-mission-intent

Armour Vienna Sausage Kroger Chevrolet Clint Bowyer Zaxby s Chevrolet Brad Keselowski Ruby Tuesday Dodge Carl Edwards

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-15T15:00:00.001-08:00

NBBL Keeps Acting Like Nobody Knows Their Lawsuit Was a Cynical PR Stunt (Bklyn Paper, Observer)
Cyclist Slain By Hit-and-Run Driver on Staten Island Identified as Ron Tillman (News, Post)
On Behalf of the Subway-Riding Class, Clyde Haberman Takes Down House Transpo Bill (City Room)
More on the NYC Region’s Bipartisan Alliance Against the House Attack on Transit [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/14/todays-headlines-1324/

Frank Gardner Billy Garrett Jo Gartner Tony Gaze Geki Olivier Gendebien

House Transpo Bill Turns Communities Into Collateral Damage

2012-02-15T12:00:00.001-08:00

Source: http://streetsblog.net/2012/02/14/house-transpo-bill-turns-communities-into-collateral-damage/

Duncan Hamilton Lewis Hamilton David Hampshire Sam Hanks Walt Hansgen Mike Harris

CUP: Patrick Confident Approaching First Daytona 500

2012-02-15T09:00:00.001-08:00

Danica Patrick figures she?ll have a shot at winning in her Sprint Cup debut?

Source: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-danica-patrick-confident-approaching-first-nascar-daytona-500/

Alan Dennis Kulwicki Travis Wade Kvapil Robert Allen Labonte Terrence Lee Labonte Randy Joseph Lajoie Kevin Paul Lepage

MacDonald Motorsports Announces Jason Bowles as Driver and American Majority as Primary Sponsor for the Entire 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series Season

2012-02-15T06:00:00.001-08:00

NNS No. 81 American Majority/PledgeToVote.com Dodge Challenger R/T with Driver Jason Bowles(MOORESVILLE, NC) February 9, 2012 ? MacDonald Motorsports is proud to announce that former NASCAR K&N West Series Champion and 2011 Toyota All Star Showdown winner Jason Bowles will pilot the American Majority/PledgeToVote.com No. 81 for the entire 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series season. In...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/09/macdonald-motorsports-announces-jason-bowles-as-driver-and-american-majority-as-primary-sponsor-for-the-entire-2012-nascar-nationwide-series-season/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=macdonald-motorsports-announces-jason-bowles-as-driver-and-american-majority-as-primary-sponsor-for-the-entire-2012-nascar-nationwide-series-season

Kyle Eugene Petty Floyd Anthony Raines Scott Russell Riggs Hiroshi Fushida Beppe Gabbiani Bertrand Gachot

This Week: City Council Probes NYPD Crash Investigations

2012-02-15T03:00:00.001-08:00

Even with new laws on the books designed to hold dangerous motorists accountable, NYPD still, by and large, allows drivers who maim or kill other people to get right back behind the wheel with little or no repercussions. Stories abound of police failing to follow up with crash witnesses, neglecting to use the legal tools [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/13/this-week-city-council-probes-nypd-crash-investigations/

Ignazio Giunti Timo Glock Helm Glöckler Paco Godia Carel Godin de Beaufort Christian Goethals

JD Motorsports signs G&K Services for Daytona, Phoenix and other races

2012-02-15T00:00:00.001-08:00

“Daytona car will also have country artist Chris Cagle on decklid” JD MotorsportsGAFFNEY, S.C. (February 14, 2012) ? JD Motorsports will have a familiar look on their car for the season opener at Daytona with G&K Services returning to the fold for the 2012 season. Mike Wallace will open the NASCAR Nationwide Series driving the...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/14/jd-motorsports-signs-gk-services-for-daytona-phoenix-and-other-races/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jd-motorsports-signs-gk-services-for-daytona-phoenix-and-other-races

James Hunt Jim Hurtubise Gus Hutchison Jacky Ickx Yuji Ide Jesús Iglesias

Video: Creative SUV axle repair not MacGyver approved

2012-02-14T21:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Etc., Humor

Proving once again that you never know what you're going to come across on the road in Eastern Europe is the video we've pasted after the break. In it, you'll see an old beat-up SUV of unknown origin plodding its way through a residential area in Kazakhstan, a former member of the USSR. Sounds pretty normal, no?

Wait, what's that? Why is the driver-side rear wheel sticking several feet too far out of the wheel well? We have no idea. Whether simply the result of a broken axle or a quick-and-dirty, less-than-ideal roadside repair, the result is predictable.

We don't want to spoil the ending for you, so we suggest you hit the jump to see how it all goes down.

Continue reading Creative SUV axle repair not MacGyver approved

Creative SUV axle repair not MacGyver approved originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/creative-suv-axle-repair-not-macgyver-approved/

Jim Hurtubise Gus Hutchison Jacky Ickx Yuji Ide Jesús Iglesias Taki Inoue

79 New York City Execs Tell House to Kill Anti-Transit Bill

2012-02-14T18:00:00.001-08:00

New York City companies know their employees depend on transit to get to work. At rush hour, Grand Central is packed with transit riders. Photo: Corey Wise/Lonely Planet.
The hits keep coming against the Republican House of Representatives’ radical transportation bill, especially its unprecedented attack on dedicated transit funding. In New York, the region’s Congress member [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/13/79-new-york-city-execs-tell-house-to-kill-anti-transit-bill/

Oswald Karch Narain Karthikeyan Ukyo Katayama Ken Kavanagh Rupert Keegan Eddie Keizan

This Valentine?s Day, Declare Your Love For the Most Beautiful Street

2012-02-14T15:00:00.001-08:00

Vote for which street is the most beautiful.
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, here is a new and interesting way to compare streets. At www.beautiful.st, you can compare 200 randomly selected streets in Philadelphia, plucked from Google Street View, two at a time. Vote for the most beautiful and two more images pop up for [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/14/this-valentines-day-declare-your-love-for-the-most-beautiful-street/

Al Keller Joe Kelly Dave Kennedy Loris Kessel Bruce Kessler Nicolas Kiesa

HendrickCars.com To Sponsor Phoenix Racing, JR Motorsports And Richard Childress Racing In Select 2012 NASCAR Events

2012-02-14T12:00:00.001-08:00

Boy Hayje Willi Heeks Nick Heidfeld Theo Helfrich Mack Hellings Brian Henton

Kellogg Company, Pop-Tarts� and Rice Krispies Treats� to Sponsor Roush Fenway No. 6 Ford Mustang at Daytona

2012-02-14T09:00:00.001-08:00

Ricky Stenhouse Jr., driver of the No. 6 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the NASCAR Nationwide Series, speaks with the media during the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway on Tuesday in Concord, N.C. - Photo Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCARCONCORD,...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/13/kellogg-company-pop-tarts-and-rice-krispies-treats-to-sponsor-roush-fenway-no-6-ford-mustang-at-daytona/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=kellogg-company-pop-tarts-and-rice-krispies-treats-to-sponsor-roush-fenway-no-6-ford-mustang-at-daytona

Juan Pablo Montoya Joseph Francis Nemechek III Ryan Joseph Newman Kyle Eugene Petty Floyd Anthony Raines Scott Russell Riggs

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-14T06:00:00.001-08:00

Hit-And-Run Driver Kills Staten Island Cyclist Near Wagner College (Advance,�News)
Luis Rosado, Great-Grandfather, Killed By Hit-And-Run Livery Cab Driver in Harlem (News, Post)
Dawn Affoumani, 45, Killed By Hit-and-Run Driver While Crossing Bronx Street (Post)
Bronx Helpers Get Daily News Attention for Their Slow Zone Bid
Parents Request Speed Bumps, Mirrors to Help Them Cross Hicks Street (Bklyn Paper)
Queens [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/13/todays-headlines-1323/

Olivier Gendebien Marc Gené Elmer George Bob Gerard Gerino Gerini Peter Gethin

Are you the Infiniti Emerg-e concept?

2012-02-14T03:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Spy Photos, Coupe, Hybrid, Geneva Motor Show, Infiniti

For an automaker whose lineup is made up of more crossovers than anything else, Infiniti sure does seem to like doing two-door show cars. The 2006 Coupe Concept showed the way forward for the G37 coupe, the 2009 Essence concept showcased a new design direction, the Etherea concept of 2011 may have been a five-door hatch but tried its damnedest to look like a coupe, and now the Japanese luxury marque is preparing to roll in to Geneva with a new sports car concept altogether.

Dubbed Emerg-e, the concept car has so far only been teased with a handful of close-up detail shots tinted such a deep purple we were half expecting them to break out into a rendition of "Smoke on the Water" - which was, come to think of it, set just across the lake from where the concept is set to be unveiled just a few weeks from now. But we digress. The point is that a series of what appear to be patent renderings have leaked their way online to give us a much better idea of what to expect.

So what should we expect? Well, based on the renderings, the show car is looking rather curvaceous. In some cases, we'd say, a little too much so, with a face that makes us think of a fat man trying to fit into a small bathing suit, and that's never a good image (so, um... sorry about that). We'll reserve final judgement for when we see it up close and personal next month.

Are you the Infiniti Emerg-e concept? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/are-you-the-infiniti-emerg-e-concept/

Kyle Eugene Petty Floyd Anthony Raines Scott Russell Riggs Hiroshi Fushida Beppe Gabbiani Bertrand Gachot

Go Canada Racing to become GC Motorsports International

2012-02-14T00:00:00.001-08:00

Go Canada Racing Toronto, ON, Feb 3rd, 2012? Effective Feb15th, 2012 Go Canada Racing will become GC Motorsports International (GCMI). ?The name change is a result of numerous developments in the off-season and more clearly represents our company, our partners, drivers and sponsors going forward.? said team owner Steve Meehan. In 2012 the team will...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/07/go-canada-racing-to-become-gc-motorsports-international/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=go-canada-racing-to-become-gc-motorsports-international

Loris Kessel Bruce Kessler Nicolas Kiesa Leo Kinnunen Danny Kladis Hans Klenk

Video: Twin-engined, sixteen-cylinder Mazda MX-5 Miata, anyone?

2012-02-13T21:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Convertible, Videos, Mazda, Specialty

As far as two-seaters go, they don't get much farther apart than the Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 and the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The Mazda is as cheap as the Bugatti is expensive, and the Veyron has as many turbochargers - and digits in its output figures - as the Miata has cylinders. But this homegrown example aims to bridge the gap.

Someone, it seems, has stretched out their Miata's wheelbase and fitted a pair of eight-cylinder engines (which is essentially what powers the Bugatti) under the extended hood - or where the hood used to be, anyway. The result, as you can see from the brief clip after the jump, is rather rumblesome. Here's hoping the next vid has a bit more action...

Continue reading Twin-engined, sixteen-cylinder Mazda MX-5 Miata, anyone?

Twin-engined, sixteen-cylinder Mazda MX-5 Miata, anyone? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/twin-engined-sixteen-cylinder-mazda-mx-5-miata-anyone/

Kerry Dale Earnhardt Ralph Dale Earnhardt Sr Ralph Dale Earnhardt Jr Carl Michael Edwards III William Clyde Elliott Jeffrey Michael Gordon

Six Lies the GOP Is Telling About the House Transportation Bill

2012-02-13T18:00:00.001-08:00

The transportation-plus-drilling bill that John Boehner and company are trying to ram through the House is an attack on transit riders, pedestrians, cyclists, city dwellers, and every American who can’t afford to drive everywhere. Under this bill, all the dedicated federal funding streams for transit, biking, and walking would disappear, leading to widespread service cuts [...]

Source: http://dc.streetsblog.org/2012/02/09/six-lies-the-gop-is-telling-about-the-house-transportation-bill/

Beppe Gabbiani Bertrand Gachot Patrick Gaillard Divina Galica Nanni Galli Oscar Alfredo Gálvez

Report: BMW agrees to pay $3M fine for late reporting of recalls

2012-02-13T15:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Government/Legal, Recalls, Safety, BMW, Motorcycle, Luxury

BMW is handing over $3 million in fines to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration over the way it has handled recalls. NHTSA began an investigation of BMW's practices in 2010, looking at 16 recalls that covered more than 300,000 of the company's cars and motorcycles going back in some cases to 2002.

In levying the fine, NHTSA found that "BMW appears to maintain a practice, by design or habit, in which it provides little information in its initial (recall) filings." Of the instances which garnered fines, however, BMW said all but one of them concerned its motorcycles, not its cars. The NHTSA said that BMW would eventually provide the information but only after what the NHTSA termed an "inordinate amount of time."

To address the issue, BMW is changing its methods for how it provides information to the government and how it deals with recalls.

BMW agrees to pay $3M fine for late reporting of recalls originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/bmw-agrees-to-pay-3m-fine-for-late-reporting-of-recalls/

Carl Edwards Copart Ford Denny Hamlin Z Line Toyota Kyle Busch Toyota Kimmy

CUP: Release The Hounds

2012-02-13T12:00:00.001-08:00

2012 season cranks up this week at Daytona International Speedway?

Source: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-release-the-hounds-nascar-sprint-daytona-500/

Johnny Herbert Al Herman Hans Herrmann François Hesnault Hans Heyer Damon Hill

Matt Carter Teams Up With Lone Survivor Foundation With Clear Mission; Intent

2012-02-13T09:00:00.001-08:00

Jackie Holmes Bill Homeier Kazuyoshi Hoshino Jerry Hoyt Nico Hülkenberg Denny Hulme

Supermodel Maryeve Dufault Joins NASCAR

2012-02-13T06:00:00.001-08:00

Maryeve DufaultRising up from ARCA stock car racing to the NASCAR Nationwide Series, there is a new reason why people may tangentially care about NASCAR. Her name is Maryeve Dufault and this is everything you need to know about this model-turned-badass. When I say that Dufault has become a badass now that she has a...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/arca/02/07/supermodel-maryeve-dufault-joins-nascar/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=supermodel-maryeve-dufault-joins-nascar

Mike Hailwood Mika Häkkinen Bruce Halford Jim Hall Duncan Hamilton Lewis Hamilton

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-13T03:00:00.001-08:00

Tappan Zee DEIS Fails to Explain Cost of Transit or How to Fund Bloated Road (MTR)
Quinn State of the City Doesn’t Mention Transportation, Urban Planning (NYT)
Tappan Zee Bidders Are Same Companies With Massive Cost Overruns on Nearby Projects (LoHud)
Andrea Bernstein Explains How House Transpo Bill Would Batter NYC (WNYC)
Port Authority Audit Intended to Allow Governors [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/10/todays-headlines-1322/

Virgil Ernest Irvan III Kenny Dale Irwin Jr Dale Arnold Jarrett Jimmie Kenneth Johnson Kasey Kenneth Kahne Matthew Roy Kenseth

CUP: Great American Grid Coming Soon

2012-02-13T00:00:00.001-08:00

SPEED will set the grid for the 43 top Daytona 500 performers...

Source: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-great-american-grid-coming-soon-nascar-sprint-daytona-500/

Peter Gethin Piercarlo Ghinzani Bruno Giacomelli Dick Gibson Gimax Richie Ginther

House Transportation Bill Too Extreme for Some Republicans

2012-02-12T21:00:00.001-08:00

The House GOP’s transportation bill is legislation only Big Oil can love. By eviscerating dedicated transit funds, killing programs that support safe streets, and linking transportation funding to oil drilling in the Arctic, the bill has managed to alienate everyone from environmental advocates to the ultra-conservative Club for Growth.
Steven LaTourette, an Ohio Republican, said he [...]

Source: http://dc.streetsblog.org/2012/02/08/house-transportation-bill-too-extreme-for-some-republicans/

Brad Keselowski Ruby Tuesday Dodge Carl Edwards Copart Ford Denny Hamlin Z Line Toyota

INDYCAR: Schmidt, Hamilton Working On Partnership

2012-02-12T18:00:00.001-08:00

SPEED.com has learned that Davey Hamilton and Sam Schmidt are close to expanding the SSM operation from one car to two this season.

Source: http://auto-racing.speedtv.com/article/indycar-schmidt-hamilton-working-on-partnership/

Oswald Karch Narain Karthikeyan Ukyo Katayama Ken Kavanagh Rupert Keegan Eddie Keizan

CUP: 10 Drivers Who Need To Man Up

2012-02-12T15:00:00.001-08:00

Kyle Busch needs to prove he can contend for a Sprint Cup championship...

Source: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-10-drivers-who-need-to-man-up-nascar-sprint/

Graham Hill Phil Hill Peter Hirt David Hobbs Gary Hocking Ingo Hoffmann

Official: 276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva

2012-02-12T12:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Vauxhall

Vauxhall has three big reveals planned for the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, one of them being the 280-horsepower Vauxhall Astra VXR that was announced last November as the Opel Astra OPC. That means the 2.0-liter turbo four lives underhood, and in addition to 276 ponies, it dishes out 295 pound-feet of torque. Handling is aided by the limited-slip differential for the front axle, the HiPerStrut suspension and the "fully adaptive FlixRide system."

Vauxhall's also got a concept "pedelec" bicycle called the "RAD e" headed to the show. Taking some of its cues from the Opel RAK e Concept shown at Frankfurt, the RAD e attaches a 250-watt electric motor to a bicycle to assist the rider. The motor is good for a range of 37 to 90 miles. Finally, the Vauxhall Mokka crossover - their version of our Buick Encore - will make its formal debut in Geneva.

Follow the jump for the press release highlights, and have a look at the trio in the photo gallery.

Continue reading 276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva

276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/

Charles Robert Hamilton V Kevin Michael Harvick Virgil Ernest Irvan III Kenny Dale Irwin Jr Dale Arnold Jarrett Jimmie Kenneth Johnson

JD Motorsports to field second NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2012

2012-02-12T09:00:00.001-08:00

Dave Kennedy Loris Kessel Bruce Kessler Nicolas Kiesa Leo Kinnunen Danny Kladis

Today?s Headlines

2012-02-12T06:00:00.001-08:00

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/10/todays-headlines-1322/

Ernst Klodwig Kamui Kobayashi Helmuth Koinigg Heikki Kovalainen Kevin Harvick Armour Vienna Sausage Kroger Chevrolet

CUP: Kahne Set To Step Up

2012-02-12T03:00:00.001-08:00

Kasey Kahne will try to give Rick Hendrick his 200th victory by winning the Daytona 500...

Source: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-kasey-kahne-set-to-step-up-nascar-sprint/

Clint Bowyer Zaxby s Chevrolet Brad Keselowski Ruby Tuesday Dodge Carl Edwards Copart Ford

Q Poll: Chris Quinn?s Parking Agenda Out of Touch With New Yorkers

2012-02-12T00:00:00.001-08:00

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and her city-owned Chevy Suburban in 2008. Photo copyright Steven Hirsch.
To hear Christine Quinn tell it, New Yorkers are crying out for relief from unjust parking policies. Over the last two years, it seems that when City Council members weren’t flogging legislation to add layers of bureaucracy to DOT’s street [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/09/q-poll-chris-quinns-parking-agenda-out-of-touch-with-new-yorkers/

Armour Vienna Sausage Kroger Chevrolet Clint Bowyer Zaxby s Chevrolet Brad Keselowski Ruby Tuesday Dodge Carl Edwards

Official: 276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva

2012-02-11T21:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Vauxhall

Continue reading 276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva

276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/

Ruby Tuesday Dodge Carl Edwards Copart Ford Denny Hamlin Z Line Toyota Kyle Busch

Randy Hill Racing Announces 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series Plans

2012-02-11T18:00:00.001-08:00

Randy Hill Racing (RHR)MOORESVILLE, North Carolina (February 1, 2012) – - Officials from Randy Hill Racing (RHR) announced today that they will once again return to the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) with their No. 08 Randy Hill Racing Ford Mustang beginning with the 2012 season-opener, the DRIVE4COPD 300 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on Saturday,...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/nationwide/02/01/randy-hill-racing-announces-2012-nascar-nationwide-series-plans/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=randy-hill-racing-announces-2012-nascar-nationwide-series-plans

Jim Hall Duncan Hamilton Lewis Hamilton David Hampshire Sam Hanks Walt Hansgen

Exclusive: Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"

2012-02-11T15:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Kia

Expect the next Soul to look something like the Track'ster, with Kia deploying more than one variant.

Kia's Track'ster Concept is one of the big hits of the Chicago Auto Show, one of the rare concepts that just screams, "Build me!" But after a thorough interrogation of Kia's PR team and an interview with design chief Peter Schreyer, we realize that's just wishful thinking. We do, however, expect the next Soul to look something like the Track'ster, with Kia deploying more than one variant when the second generation appears in a few years.

"If the Soul were to evolve into a family, it would be nice," Schreyer told us.

Kia spokesman Scott McKee repeatedly said the Track'ster was just a concept and not intended to be production feasible, all the while issuing the standard auto company disclaimer, "Every concept car we do is about gathering information from consumers and media."

One of the big pieces of information Kia is likely looking for is whether performance cars from Kia would play with the notoriously cliquish enthusiast community. Even more importantly, however, Kia will be gauging interest in additional body styles for the Soul. Schreyer said he thinks the Soul would be "more substantial" if it were also offered in a two-door version, or in a more performance-oriented flavor. All-wheel drive is a feature Schreyer also specifically mentioned as being on his wish list.

Continue reading Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"

Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/

Robert Allen Labonte Terrence Lee Labonte Randy Joseph Lajoie Kevin Paul Lepage William Ashton Lewis Jr Sterling Burton Marlin

New Nissan Versa recalled for problem with shifter

2012-02-11T12:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Government/Legal, Safety, Nissan

Some 36,000 Versa owners will soon be getting mail from Nissan. Automatic transmission-equipped 2012 Versas built between June 9, 2011, and January 13, 2012, may have defective shifter knobs or shifter assemblies, which could allow the car to be shifted out of park without first pressing the brake pedal.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report says that the defect increases the risk of crash or injury to pedestrians. The recall campaign is scheduled to begin on February 20, and concerned owners can call Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

To read the full recall report, click past the jump.

Continue reading New Nissan Versa recalled for problem with shifter

New Nissan Versa recalled for problem with shifter originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-nissan-versa-recalled-for-problem-with-shifter/

Mark Anthony Martin Jeremy Allan Mayfield James Christopher McMurray Casey James Mears Juan Pablo Montoya Joseph Francis Nemechek III

Will Michael Grimm Reject the House GOP Attack on His Constituents?

2012-02-11T09:00:00.001-08:00

Staten Island Congressman Michael Grimm touts his support for transit on his website and represents a district where 38 percent of people take transit to work. Will he support the anti-transit, anti-urban House transportation bill? Image: house.gov
It isn’t only Democrats blasting the House Republican transportation bill, which would eliminate dedicated federal transit funding, cost the [...]

Source: http://www.streetsblog.org/2012/02/09/will-michael-grimm-support-the-house-gop-attack-on-his-constituents/

Naoki Hattori Paul Hawkins Mike Hawthorn Boy Hayje Willi Heeks Nick Heidfeld

Teased: Bertone releases sketches of Nuccio Concept ahead of Geneva

2012-02-11T06:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Geneva Motor Show, Specialty, Design/Style, MISC

Turin-based styling house Bertone has released a couple of sketches teasing its upcoming Nuccio Concept car. To be debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the Nuccio will reportedly be based on a mid-engine platform and is meant to commemorate the company's 100-year anniversary.

The Nuccio is named after founder Giovanni Bertone's son, who took over the company and separated it into two divisions, one for building cars and one for designing them for clients. Giuseppe "Nuccio" Bertone died in 1997 and was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Detroit in 2006, having led his eponymous company through its most successful years.

The Nuccio Concept will be a berlinetta (Italian for little saloon) of classic Bertone design, sporting a pronounced wedge shape that sits very low to the ground. No real details were provided with the two sketches, so we'll have to wait until the Geneva festivities kick off for any hints on the powertrain or seating configuration.

Bertone releases sketches of Nuccio Concept ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/bertone-releases-sketches-of-nuccio-concept-ahead-of-geneva/

François Hesnault Hans Heyer Damon Hill Graham Hill Phil Hill Peter Hirt

First Drive: 2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video]

2012-02-11T03:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Hybrid, Hatchback, Toyota, First Drives

Baby Of The Family Will Play A Big Role

Toyota's new 2012 Prius C doesn't look like a math problem, but that's what it is.

Hidden behind its attractive hatchback body and Toyota Synergy Drive hybrid powertrain, the Prius C is just a bunch of numbers. Numbers like the car's miles per gallon rating, its MSRP, how many can be produced and how many Toyota hopes to sell. Toyota ran these numbers through its "Do we build it?" formula, which is what caused the Prius C to come into being, but the good news is that this smallest of Prii adds up to more than what was put into it, and even introduces a bit of fun to the appliance-like Prius driving experience. Not much, mind you, but enough that its target audience - young people who want to buy the most efficient gas-powered vehicle on the market today - should take notice.

Here are some of the calculations that Toyota is making for its new Prius family. Instead of selling 136,463 "normal" Prius Liftbacks as it did last year (down from 140,928 in 2010), the Japanese automaker believes that three new models - the bigger V, the smaller C and the Plug-In version - will push cumulative Prius sales up to 220,000 in 2012 and then go up from there.

Last year, Toyota's group vice president for U.S. sales, Bob Carter, said he expects the Prius to be the automaker's number one nameplate by 2020. Sure, the Prius continues to sell well in green car circles and has been the best selling car in Japan for a year and a half, but for Carter's statement to come true, the Prius family would have to outsell the almighty Camry. Think about that. Think about the ambition - and challenge - behind those words. This is the equation that the Prius C needs to solve.

Continue reading 2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video]

2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/

Ralph Dale Earnhardt Jr Carl Michael Edwards III William Clyde Elliott Jeffrey Michael Gordon Charles Robert Hamilton IV Charles Robert Hamilton V

MacDonald Motorsports Announces Jason Bowles as Driver and American Majority as Primary Sponsor for the Entire 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series Season

2012-02-11T00:00:00.001-08:00

Olivier Gendebien Marc Gené Elmer George Bob Gerard Gerino Gerini Peter Gethin

Exclusive: Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"

2012-02-10T21:00:00.001-08:00

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Kia

Expect the next Soul to look something like the Track'ster, with Kia deploying more than one variant.

Continue reading Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"

Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/

Jean Pierre Jarier Max Jean Stefan Johansson Eddie Johnson Leslie Johnson Bruce Johnstone

Randy Hill Racing Announces 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series Plans

2012-02-10T18:00:00.001-08:00

Taki Inoue Innes Ireland Eddie Irvine Chris Irwin Jean Pierre Jabouille Jimmy Jackson

Brad Keselowski Announces Twitter Contest For Fans Around Season-Opener NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Race

2012-02-10T15:00:00.001-08:00

Brad Keselowski Racing (BKR)MOORESVILLE, NC (Jan. 30, 2012) – Brad Keselowski announced today that he and Brad Keselowski Racing (BKR) will conduct an online contest that will provide fans an opportunity to have their Twitter handle featured on the No. 19 BKR RAM that Brad will pilot in the season-opening NASCAR Camping World Truck Series...more»

Source: http://www.catchfence.com/2012/sprintcup/01/30/brad-keselowski-announces-twitter-contest-for-fans-around-season-opener-nascar-camping-world-truck-series-race/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=brad-keselowski-announces-twitter-contest-for-fans-around-season-opener-nascar-camping-world-truck-series-race

Travis Wade Kvapil Robert Allen Labonte Terrence Lee Labonte Randy Joseph Lajoie Kevin Paul Lepage William Ashton Lewis Jr