Porsche gives the 918 Spyder hybrid the "green" light

When the Porsche 918 Spyder Concept made its debut in Geneva and China this year, it looked "ready for primetime." Public response has been better than expected for this modern interpretation of the supercar, so Porsche management said, "yes." The 918 Spyder is a hybrid supercar posting insane speeds while delivering fuel economy numbers that an economy car would envy (94.1 mpg on the European cycle). Porsche's Board has given the green-light for the 918 Spyder to be developed and eventually enter limited production. The 918 Spyder is the spiritual successor to the Carrera GT that recently stopped production. While the car looks ready to go, further development is necessary to meet worldwide efficiency and safety demands. Expect to see a production model within the next couple of years, so start putting away your supercar-purchase money now. (Note the concept's green brake calipers reminding us of the car's "green" credentials.)

Source: Porsche - Press release after the jump.

Nissan announces Leaf roll-out details

In a move similar to GM's Volt announcement, Nissan is releasing more details and information regarding the market roll-out of the Leaf EV. The Leaf is a zero-emissions electric vehicle that can run about 100 miles on a battery pack charge. Those consumers that pre-ordered or registered with Nissan will receive emails from the automaker regarding the availability of their new EV. The first Leaf deliveries will begin in December to customers in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona and Nissan's home state - Tennessee. The Leaf will be available nationwide by the fall of 2011. The Leaf will retail for around $32,000, but the charged Nissan is eligible for the same government tax incentives as the Volt of up to $7,500/Federal and up to $5,000 from some states. Nissan is matching GM's warranty with the Leaf battery pack covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles. Leaf fun facts: blue (shown ) is the most popular color followed by silver; more than 74 percent of early orders are for the top SL trim level; 75 percent of Leaf purchasers own their own home; energy independence, environmental consciousness, and cost/fuel economy were the most common reasons given by consumers for the consideration of a new Leaf. (Get it. New Leaf. As in turning over a...sorry.)

Source: Nissan - Press release after the jump.

Volt pricing and order details revealed

GM and its Chevrolet division announced that the new Volt would be priced at $41,000 plus taxes, license and fees. The price drops to $33,500 when the current Federal tax rebate of $7,500 is deducted (several states also provide tax incentives of up to $5,000 to further reduce prices). The Volt is a hybrid EV that runs on electric power at all times, but has an on-board engine that is used to recharge the battery pack. The Volt can run for 40 miles on electricity alone before the engine is required for recharging, adding an additional 300 miles in range. The Volt roll-out begins later this year in selected markets like California, New York, and Texas before a nationwide introduction in 2011. To further incentivize early purchasers, Chevy will offer On-Star service free for five years, an 8-year/100,000 mile battery pack warranty, and a Volt advisor that will be available 24 hours a day by phone or internet. (For general Volt information, Chevrolet will have a team of Volt advisors available to answer questions at 1-888-VOLT-4-YOU or 1-888-865-8496). To find the Volt dealer near you, go to http://www.getmyvolt.com. The dealer will begin the order process, which will be followed up by contact from a dedicated Volt advisor who will be available to answer any questions and keep the customer apprised of the progress of their order. It will be interesting to see how well the Volt does when the government tax credits expire, since this is one of the vehicle types for our automotive futures. Let's hope that Chevy offers an interior that is less gimmicky and more in keeping with cars in this price class.

Source: GM - Press release after the jump.

Audi unveils new A7 Sportback

The burgeoning sedan/coupe market is adding a new member, the Audi A7 Sportback. Mercedes Benz started the craze with the popular CLS which was later joined by the Volkswagen CC, Porsche Panamera, and the Aston Martin Rapide. The A7 is closer to the Panamera and Rapide in execution due to its five-door configuration. Yes, technically the A7 is what used to be called a hatchback and Audi is using the Sportback moniker. No matter, the A7 is an elegant looking five-door coupe that will turn heads wherever it goes. The five-door configuration just ups the utility and usability quotient. The A7 Sportback sits between the top-of-the-line A8 and the A6 mid-size luxury sedan in the Audi line up. So no, it won't be cheap (approximately $67,000 at today's exchange rates). The A7 Sportback will initially be fitted with V6 power and a CVT transmission (front-wheel drive) or the seven-speed S Tronic transmission when the A7 is fitted with Quattro all-wheel drive. No word on the availability of a diesel V6 (two are available in Europe) or when the high(er) performance S7 will make it to US shores with probable V8 power. Expect all of the luxury touches one would expect at this price point such as Audi's MMI infotainment system, leather seating, an optional 1,300 watt Bang & Olufsen, standard Bose audio, Audi pre sense safety system, Bi-xenon headlamps, LED taillights, a WLAN hotspot is used to connect mobile devices, and more. Other options include climate control, massaging front seats, and a park assist system. More information and US specs will be made available closer to the A7 Sportback's on-sale date later this year.

Source: Audi - Press release and pics after the jump.

Just For Fun - 2011 Ford Explorer videos

Source: Ford - Previous Explorer post.

Ford attempts to reinvent the SUV with the 2011 Explorer

Ford is attempting to reinvent the sport-utility vehicle with the 2011 Explorer by turning it into a crossover or CUV. The typical SUV is usually based on a truck chassis and has a separate frame. Crossovers are usually "butched-up" versions of car chassis that feature a unibody platform (like the Jeep Grand Cherokee has for years). CUVs benefit from being (generally) lighter allowing for better economy and efficiency. Ford's new Explorer attempts to bring the SUV class into the 21st century with light weight and smaller engines, but with plenty of room and towing capacity (up to 5,000 lbs.). The big news is the absence of a V8 from the Explorer line-up and the addition of an EcoBoost four-cylinder engine (yes, you read that right, an inline-four).

The V6 is Ford's 3.5-liter engine that makes 290 hp for Explorer duty. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost four is currently rated at 237 hp and 250 lb.-ft. of torque but that seems low for the turbocharged and direct-injected engine (this engine will be seen in numerous Ford vehicles in the future). Both engines will come mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and Ford predicts fuel economy increases of more than 20 percent for the six and more than 30 percent for the EcoBoost four (over previous Explorers). During the SUV craze, I owned a Mercury Mountaineer (Explorer clone) that had a V6 that was horsepower rated lower than the EcoBoost four is currently and it had more than enough power and got decent mpg numbers (not to mention a heavier body).

The 2011 Explorer will come in "base," XLT, and Limited editions (where's the Sport and Platinum models) and will come with front- (later) or all-wheel drive. The Explorer will also feature all of Ford's electronic goodies like MyFord Touch with Sync, curve control, terrain response system, all of the safety equipment you could want (and more), and three-row seating. More information will spew forward closer to the Explorer's on-sale date later this year. My question is, "where is the EcoBoost V6 with 350 hp and all-wheel drive and will that come later in a Sport model?" Let's hope so, cuz Ford's new Explorer is a good-looking addition to the SUV class. More to come...

Source: Ford - Press release and additional pics after the jump.

MO - Lincoln to offer free hybrid option

As the song lyric goes, "this could be the start of something big." OK it's an old lyric, but it fits. Lincoln announced that the hybridized version of their luxury sedanlet, the MKZ, would not be sold with a price premium for the hybrid powertrain. This goes against expectations where hybrid models generally cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 more than a regular gas-engined counterpart. The MKZ Hybrid will retail for just over $35,000 very well equipped. The V6 gas-engined "regular" MKZ will have the same base price. So your choice is more performance (V6) or excellent fuel economy (hybrid - 41 mpg city). In fact, the MKZ Hybrid gets better mileage than the only other near-luxury hybrid, the Lexus HS 250h, and is cheaper to purchase. As the cost of alternative automotive power sources comes down, we should see wider acceptance (of the newer drivetrains) and improved overall US vehicle fleet economy. Better fuel economy and efficiency, less imported oil or oil from offshore wells and lower pollution levels. Definitely a "win, win" situation. Now lets hope that dealers get the memo and don't jack up prices over sticker. It will be interesting to see how this works out. Several questions arise. Does Ford have the supplies (batteries, etc.) to make enough vehicles if demand is high? Will more luxury carmakers follow Mercedes' lead and make their first tier (base) models hybrids (the base S-Class, the S400, is a hybrid)? Will US buyers continue to shun hybrids and other power alternatives while gas prices are (relatively) low? All of these are good questions. I hope the answers are yes, yes, and no, but then that's just My Opinion.

Source: Lincoln - Press release after the jump.

Just for Fun: 2011 Mazda2

Source: Mazda

Jeep and Mopar to offer sleeping accommodations for the off-roader

File this one in the kinda cool section. Jeep and Mopar are offering trailer accommodations for the serious and casual off-roader. The trailer itself looks like the aft end of a Jeep Wrangler that opens and expands to sleep four adults and features a queen-size bed, sofa with stowable table, built-in aluminum cabinet, 110-volt power supply, and a premium canvas enclosure. Two variations are offered, the light(er) duty Jeep Trail Edition that retails for $9,995 and the Extreme Trail Edition that will set you back $11,995. The Jeep Trail Edition camper features lightweight all-aluminum construction, 32-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, 12 inches of ground clearance, trailing-arm suspension, diamond-plated aluminum covering, and available 360-degree axis pintle hitch (a $735 option that allows your Wrangler and camper to go just about anywhere). The Extreme Trail Edition camper ups the ante with a heavier frame, 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, 15 inches of ground clearance, full-underbody skid plate, high-mounted fenders, and the available 360-degree axis pintle hitch. The campers come in four Jeep colors (Bright Silver Metallic [with black], Flame Red, Mango Tango pearl, and Natural Green Metallic) and come with Jeep wheels. The campers will be available in August through participating Mopar and Jeep dealers. No word on financing or warranties. Check out the press release after the jump for more info and options.

Source: Jeep/Mopar - Press release after the jump.

Subaru adds Wi-Fi to 2011 Outback

Subaru makes some of the more capable go-anywhere, do-anything vehicles and they have now added Wi-Fi access to the do-anything side of the equation. For the 2011 model year, you can now outfit your Outback with the Subaru Mobile Internet system for just $499 (plus a $35 activation fee) as a dealer- or port-installed option. The service is offered in conjunction with Autonet Mobile and requires a $29 monthly fee. Subaru includes three months of service free with the purchase of you new Mobile Internet-equipped vehicle. Your Subaru Wi-Fi hotspot will allow access to ten users who are within 150 feet of the vehicle. Subaru Mobile Internet allows users to check email, surf the web, listen to Internet radio, stream video, and post to social networking sites. Multiple passengers can simultaneously use the Wi-Fi connection for their separate devices, including Wi-Fi capable laptop computers, netbooks, smart phones, and game controllers. I guess this gives new meaning to gathering around the campfire.

Source: Subaru - Press release after the jump.

BMW Classic Center returns first complete restoration

If you have a classic car or treasured older vehicle, who better than the original manufacturer to restore your conveyance to its former glory (in this case BMW). Some time ago, I posted about the creation of BMW's restoration center and the first fully restored vehicle has been returned to its owner. The vehicle in question is a 1972 3.0 CSi (above) that needed some TLC and lots of work. The car had body damage and problems associated with aging. The customer also wanted the car converted to an automatic transmission from its four-speed manual gearbox and brought back to a "perfect state." “The successful restoration of the BMW 3.0 CSi shows that we are on the right track and that, together with our partners within the BMW Group network of facilities, we are capable of restoring vehicles to the highest quality standards and to individual customer specifications,” said Ralf Vierlein, Head of Sales and Aftersales at BMW Group Classic. “We have the theoretical knowledge of the vehicles, the technical expertise, Original BMW Parts, and the requisite infrastructure to systematically link it all up.” BMW also holds a Classic Customer Workshop for owners and enthusiasts who want to own a vehicle that is as true as possible to the car's original state and best possible running condition. Of course this takes bucks and you've got to deliver the car to BMW, but like they say, "where there's a will there's a way." Go to www.bmw-classic.com for more info.

Source: BMW - Press release after the jump.

Life Ball Mini Countryman sold

The Life Ball event to benefit amfAR (the Foundation for Aids Research) was held on July 17 and Audi donated a trio of vehicles for the event's auction. Each of the vehicles was re-styled by a noted fashion designer for the event. The vehicle auctioned off was the Mini Countryman designed by Francisco Costa of the Calvin Klein Collection that featured matte black paint, reflective logos on the doors, and tinted windows. The Countryman sold for 40,000 Euros and the other two vehicles will be sold by the charity at a later date (all three vehicles, with designers, shown below). Dr. Wolfgang Armbrecht, Senior Vice President MINI Brand Management, said, “We can now look back on a successful ten-year partnership with the Life Ball. The event is an excellent platform for the MINI brand, while our involvement allows us to contribute further to the fight against HIV/AIDS.” Congratulations to all involved and one lucky driver.

Source: Mini - Press release after the jump.

Tesla tapped by Toyota

Way back in May, Toyota purchased a $50 million stake in electric vehicle maker Tesla Motors not only as an investment, but to access the Palo Alto company's EV expertise. This week it was announced that Tesla would develop an electrified RAV4 (2009-10 model shown right) for introduction in 2012. Prototypes will be made combining the Toyota RAV4 model with a Tesla electric powertrain. Tesla plans to produce and deliver a fleet of prototypes to Toyota for evaluation within this year. The first prototype has already been built and is now undergoing testing. This is good business for both companies. Toyota gets access to EV tech and Tesla gets a capital infusion and development fees to further their own vehicle plans.

Source: Tesla Motors/Toyota - Press Release after the jump.

Geely begins to absorb new Swedish division

Zheijang Geely Holding Group Co. LTD. announced that its chairman Li Shufu (right) will become Chairman of the Volvo Board upon the completion of the acquisition of Volvo from Ford. Geely also named Hans-Olov Olsson (below, a former Volvo chief executive) as Vice-Chairman. Rumors have been circulating that VW of America President Stefan Jacoby would be named the president of the Swedish automaker. Additional credence was given to those reports when Ford announced that several executives (including current Volvo CEO Stephen Odell) would be staying with Ford taking positions with Ford of Europe. Li Shufu said: "We have made significant progress in assembling the team that will develop Volvo Cars under Geely's ownership. Today's board appointments underline my personal commitment to this famous company." Li Shufu added: "The dual roles of Chairman and Vice-Chairman will combine my own knowledge and network from the Chinese market with Hans-Olov Olsson's extensive international experience from the automotive industry and Volvo Cars." Let's hope that things work out for Volvo, especially now that they have some really nice cars in showrooms. I worry that Volvo's new owners might somehow cheapen their products. We shall see. I'm sure further announcements will come once the sale has been completed in the coming weeks.

Source: Volvo/Geely - Press Release after the jump.

GM to guarantee Volt batteries for 8 years

As GM and its Chevrolet Division get ready to introduce the ground-breaking Volt (and Opel/Vauxhall Ampera in Europe), news continues to dribble out - this time regarding the battery-pack warranty. GM is building their own battery cells and packs in their Michigan plant which helps the automaker control quality and volume. You may remember that insufficient battery supplies were the reason that some hybrids were available in limited quantities (also demand exceeded expectations). GM will cover the batteries in the Volt for 8 years or 100,000 miles which means that we can expect to see "battery warranty wars" as more pure electric and range-extended electric vehicles hit the market. Right now the Tesla Roadster and one-offs and EV conversions are carrying the electric vehicle torch, although that will change dramatically in the next year when the Nissan Leaf and the Ford Escort and Transit Connect EVs make it to market. This may be smart marketing by GM to ease consumer concern regarding EVs. We shall see.

Source: GM, Chevrolet - Extensive press release after the jump.

Ford to limit Shelby GT500 production

Every carmaker should have this problem. Ford is announcing that the 2011 Mustang Shelby GT500 is almost sold out. Ford allocated a maximum production limit of 5,500 (coupe and convertible) for the high-performance ponycar. Since the 2011 model was introduced a few weeks ago, Ford has received more than 3,300 orders from dealers and consumers. “We are pleased with the pace of retail orders for the 2011 Shelby GT500,” said Fritz Wilke, Mustang brand manager. “The car continues to be popular with sports car enthusiasts and collectors who are blown away by the increase in horsepower and performance.” The new 5.4-liter aluminum V8 engine produces 550 hp (a 10 hp increase) yet weighs 102 lbs. less than last year's engine for better weight distribution and performance. Those ordering the first of the 2011 Shelby GT500s are loading their cars with options including the glass roof (right). More than 70 percent are ordering the Electronics Package which includes voice-activated navigation, HD radio, Sirius Travel Link, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The SVT Performance Package is popular with coupe buyers and it includes an updated suspension that utilizes Goodyear's Eagle® F1 SuperCar G2 tires with 19-inch alloys in the front and 20s in the back. The GT500 isn't cheap but you do get one of the fastest regular production cars in the world. They're going fast, so get your order in today or wait for the next model year.

Source: Ford - Press release after the jump.

Abarth unleashes hi-po 500C

Fiat, and its subsidiary Abarth, have released information and pics of the UK version of the "little car that could," the high(er)-performance Abarth 500 (in this instance the C or drop-top version). Abarth is the performance division of Fiat just like Mercedes' AMG and BMW's M-Division. By stepping up to the Abarth 500C you get more horsepower, upgraded fitments, a 128-mph top speed, and excellent fuel economy (43 mpg in the Euro combined cycle). As a top-of-the-line model, the Abarth 500C comes with an electric-powered drop-top, 16-inch allow wheels (17-inch alloys optional), ABS, Electronic Brake Assist, stability control, and more. Options include automatic climate control, uprated audio, two-tone paint, and leather seats and accents. Why do we care in the US? Cuz the 500 will go on sale in the US in the next few months (production is ramping up in Mexico, at the old PT Cruiser site, as you read this) and reports have stated that the Abarth editions of the 500 will make it to our market. Of course, the steering wheel will be on the "right", er... left side for us.

Source: Abarth - Extensive ress release, additional pics, specs and UK pricing after the jump.

Chevrolet creativity

I received an email from a friend with pics of billboards supposedly placed around Detroit. Some of them are funny, others are ironic (like the bodywork/plastic surgery ad. Wouldn't bodywork on a Corvette be plastic surgery?), some incite nostalgia, but all are creative. Anybody have any idea if these are still up in the Motor City, or is this an old campaign? Clever regardless. More "boards" after the jump.

BMW shows 2011 X3 SAV

BMW released new info (Euro only) and pics of the 2011 X3 SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle). The new X3 moves up a bit in size (almost the size of the current X5) to allow room for BMW's upcoming X1 SAV at the bottom of the automaker's crossover line up. The new X3 will have new features (some optional or in packages) such as a rear-view camera with top view, Internet access, eight-speed automatic transmission, electric power steering, Damper and Dynamic Drive Control, all-wheel drive (xDrive) with Performance Control, ConnectedDrive options, head-up display, and improved ride and handling dynamics to name a few. The US market should expect engine offerings similar to what we have today with the X3 xDrive28i with the 3.0-liter six with 248hp and the X3 xDrive35i with the 3.0-liter six making 306 hp. No word on a diesel engine option (a 2.0-liter four diesel with 184 hp is available in Europe), but wouldn't the diesel six out of the X5 be great? More specific information about the US-market X3 will be available closer to the vehicle's intro date later this year. Check out the video in the next post.

Source: BMW - Press release after the jump.

Just For Fun - 2011 BMW X3 video

Source: BMW

Ford updates SYNC with a little Nuance

Ford is constantly updating the SYNC system, the automaker's infotainment juggernaut that has caught much of the auto industry by surprise and in the dust. SYNC allows driver's of Ford and Lincoln vehicles to access numerous on-board systems and technologies in a point and choose or voice recognized manner. The latest update utilizes Nuance Communications' voice recognition software to increase the number of recognized commands, to increase acceptable vocabulry, allow for more direct voice control (such as saying "call John Doe" without first accessing the phone menu, etc.), decrease menu requirements, and increase the number of first level commands to over 10,000 (which is up from just 100 when SYNC was introduced in 2007). The addition of Nuance tech will also allow the system to better understand your voice and allow for numerous accents. “The power of the SYNC voice control system is its ability to understand and respond to more natural language commands – and the advanced adaptability of the speech recognition technology enables the system to train itself with each successive use,” said Michael Thompson, senior vice president and general manager, Nuance Mobile. “The adaptability of SYNC is pretty remarkable – a feature functionality Nuance and Ford worked hard to develop to ensure seamless customer interaction with the system every time it starts up. So even if the car owner has a cold or someone borrows the car, SYNC will adapt to the changed voice and process spoken commands without missing a beat.” Sync will also adjust temperature on climate-control-equipped vehicles and you can access favorite radio stations by just using the station name. This is an amazing update to a remarkable system. According to recent reports,  voice command is expected to become the primary in-car communication interface and it also increases safety by allowing driver's to access functions without removing your eyes and attention from the road (some SYNC features are blocked when the vehicle is in motion for safety reasons). For more info, read the detailed press release after the jump.

Source: Ford - Press release after the jump. Previous video post.

Just For Fun - My Ford Touch Voice Recognition Video

Source: Ford

Multi-hued Evoque prototypes spotted...on purpose

It doesn't take a genius to figure out that the new Range Rover Evoque is important to Land Rover (Land Rover is the company and lower-tier models and Range Rover is the top-tier name). The Evoque is important in today's newly ecologically conscious times as each automaker, in this case Land Rover, attempts to improve the fuel economy and efficiency of their various people movers. Since Land Rover is a "truck" company, they can't just make a small econobox and balance their corporate fuel economy and CO2 requirements. Well they could (like Aston Martin has with the Toyota iQ-based Cygnet), but what would be the fun in that. The other cool thing is that the Evoque is still a two-door, cuz we all like options. And, it's good-looking as well. Can't wait to see it in the flesh. Maybe at the LA Auto Show?

Source: Land Rover - Press release after the jump. Previous post.

Just For Fun - 2011 MB CL-Class Coupe

Source: Mercedes Benz

Fiat to offer 500 "Prima Edizione 500s" to devoted American fans

Fiat announced the availability of 500 limited-edition Cinquecento (500) "Prima Edizione" models for American fans of the Italian marque. The announcement was made at the Club Fiat-Lancia Unlimited convention held in Asheville, NC. “The Fiat Cinquecento Prima Edizione was developed especially with the Fiat fans in mind,” said Laura Soave, Head of Fiat North America, who personally presented the opportunity to the Fiat aficionados. “For over a quarter of a century, the members of this Club have kept the spirit of the Fiat and Lancia brands alive in North America through their unique and passionate support for true Italian design.” These "First Edition" 500s were designed as collector vehicles with sequential VIN numbers and exclusive badging. These First Edition 500s will be available exclusively in three colors: Bianco (White), Rosso (Red) and Grigio (Gray) and will be equipped with a manual transmission (Euro 500s shown). Orders were taken at the event but non-club members will be able to order their own vehicle at www.ciaofiat.com until all 500 500s are spoken for. No delivery date was given, but the Cinquecento is set to be available later this year.

Source: Fiat - Press release after the jump.

Opel Meriva to star in 3D ad

Opel (GM's German division) and their popular new Meriva people mover have attained a new first. The Meriva will appear in the first 3D commercial (from an automaker) that will air before 3D screenings of Toy Story 3 and Shrek 4 in European theaters. “The Meriva 3-D special is one further way we can show off the incredible creativity of the Opel brand. We wanted to introduce such an innovative vehicle as the new Meriva in an equally innovative way,” says Michael Hartwig, Executive Director, Brand Marketing for Opel/Vauxhall. The 3D spot was created for use on the internet, in movie theaters, and in electronics stores and will use different technical methods to achieve the 3-D look. While the internet spot uses a classic 3-D style, the spot produced for theaters was made with the same polarization technique that was used for the award-winning Avatar movie. To experience the 3-D effect, viewers need to use different glasses. Glasses needed to view the internet spot can be ordered from Opel. With the spreading acceptance of 3D TVs, we can expect more 3D commercials. Do satellite and cable providers broadcast in 3D yet? Anyone? If they don't now, they will so get ready.

Source: Opel - Press release after the jump.

BMW to support iPod Out feature in BMWs and Minis

BMW has announced that their in-dash infotainment system will support the new iPod Out feature of Apple's new iOS4 operating system that comes in new iPods and iPhones. The integration feature of iPod Out allows you to control your tunes through the vehicle's main infotainment display (see Mini - right and BMW - below) and allows access to playlists and the Genius function. This new integration feature is part of BMW's ConnectDrive strategy to allow drivers access to their infotainment devices in a less distracting way. ConnectDrive iPod Out requires an iPhone 3G, 3GS, 4 or iPod Touch (two latest versions) and of course the BMW. No mention of any effect or changes with bluetooth or video functions.

Source: BMW - Press release after the jump.

Rolls-Royce on a roll

Rolls-Royce is announcing strong demand for their automotive conveyances with all models sold out until September of this year. RR is currently building fifteen cars a day and has seen sales increase more than 200 percent in the first six months of this year (including a 400 percent increase for June). The new Ghost model (above) is expected to increase sales dramatically at the British luxury carmaker and become the marque's biggest seller. Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said, “This is an excellent interim result and we are well on our way to meeting our target of at least doubling our 2009 sales result. At the same time, both Phantom and Ghost continue to be the most exclusive super luxury cars in the world.” He continued, “I am also delighted with the progress in one of my first tasks as CEO - the stabilisation of the production process for our new model series, Ghost - and this is reflected in the smooth delivery of cars to our dealers and our customers around the world.” Recession, schmession. Who said that there was an economic downturn? Certainly not Rolls-Royce buyers. Of course, the new Ghost is less expensive than the Phantom and...

Source: Rolls Royce - Press release after the jump.

Audi enters R8 e-tron in rally

Audi has entered an e-tron testbed electric vehicle that is cloaked in an R8 skin in the Silvretta E-Auto Rally Montafon 2010. e-tron is the name given to Audi's electric vehicles (EVs). The R8 was chosen for its light aluminum frame, it's available and in production, and looks good racing and rallying. Audi has already announced production of an EV with the R8's good looks, but of course you all remember the adage about counting chickens... The R8 e-tron features four electric motors, two on each axle, for full "Quattro" all-wheel drive. The e-tron control system can direct power to the wheels that need it to maximize range and control. The water-cooled, lithium-ion battery pack is located behind the driver for improved weight distribution. The R8 e-tron can hit 62 mph in 4.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 124 mph. The R8 e-tron has a range of just over 100 miles (range will vary according to driving style and conditions). It has been said that "racing improves the breed" and Audi is using this event to further develop and to showcase their technologies.

Source: Audi - Press release after the jump.

Acura TL to get refresh

According to Autoblog and the spy photographers at KGP Photography, the Acura TL is in for a little revision, call it a nose job if you will. Acura's TL was the brand's big seller, but sales have tapered off since the redesign introduced the hawk-beak grille several years ago ( I know, I've complained enough. Here's a link to a previous post where my local dealer tried to lessen the damage.). Of course the economic downturn didn't help either, but I wonder how much Acura's sales would have differed if the new corporate schnoz wasn't so darned, well ugly (to most eyes). These pics show that a revision is in the works and it does appear more acceptable. Where are the days when Acura's were cars that you desired or lusted after? Where are today's NSXs, Legend coupes, and Integras? Oh well. Hit the link below to jump to Autoblog and see the full series of pics.

Source: KGP Photography via Autoblog

Chevy Volt completes Freedom Drive

Chevrolet took the new range-extended Volt hybrid out for a little spin over the Fourth of July weekend. The trip Allowed Chevy to "shake-down" the new vehicle in real world conditions.  The trip started July 1st in Little Rock, Ark. and continued with stops in Waco, Tx.; Salem, Va.; Fairfax, Va. (where the car participated in the town's Independence Day parade); Philadelphia, Penn; Washington D.C.; and finished the trip in New York City on July 4th. The Freedom Drive covered 1,776 miles (cute, huh) and underscored the Volt's capabilities. “The Freedom Drive proved the Chevrolet Volt can be your primary vehicle, whether you are commuting across town or across the country,” said Tony Posawatz, vehicle line director, global electric vehicles and Chevrolet Volt. The trip saw the Volt stop at numerous points of interest like the Volt restaurant in Washington D.C., a hotel stop that was located on Electric Avenue, the Dr. Pepper Museum, and the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame to name a few. Now all they needed was baseball and apple pie to complete the trifecta (from Chevy's old commercials).

Source: Chevrolet - Press release after the jump.