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UK company markets caravan pulled by mobility scooter [w/video]

Filed under: Etc., Europe, Videos, Specialty, Electric

2011 ETA QTVan

2011 ETA QTVan – Click above to view video after the jump

Mobility scooter owners now have a new way to make sure they’re first in line for the early-bird special or senior discount day with the QTVan, a mobility scooter-towed mini caravan. The trailer was designed by English company Environmental Transport Association as a convenient way to dodge lines, or a handy place to stay should your Rascal crap out on you. With the Royal Wedding fast approaching, ETA is touting the mini camper as a perfect way to beat the crowd in comfort and style.

It’s no Airstream by any means, but manages to fit a raft of features into a package just over six feet long. Inside, there’s a full-size bed, a tea service, a full bar and a 19-inch flat-screen television. It’s even available for short vacations, though with a 30-mile range and six-mph top end, it won’t get you much further than the park.

For those with a green-sensitive mindset, the ETA says the QTVan is 100-percent carbon neutral, provided you use sustainable energy sources to charge it. Conveniently, ETA will also sell you a mobility scooter ~~roadside~~ curbside assistance plan, covering everything from loss of charge to flat tires. Between the QTVan and the breakdown coverage, ETA has all your mobility scooter needs in hand.

The QTVan is available now to English customers, with a starting price of £5,500, or about $9,000, not including the scooter itself. Breakdown coverage will run you £49.99, or around $82, per year. Click past the jump to check out an epically awesome video of the QTVan in action.

[Source: YouTube via ETA]

Continue reading UK company markets caravan pulled by mobility scooter [w/video]

UK company markets caravan pulled by mobility scooter [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video]

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Europe, Videos, Hatchback, Misc. Auto Shows, Racing, Fiat

Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230

Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230 – Click above for image gallery

There’s a grand tradition to mid-engined hatchbacks that blend exotic layout with utilitarian bodystyle, and as promised, that tradition has now embodied itself in the Fiat 500.

Developed by Lucarelli Monza – a new tuning house eager to make its mark – the Abarth 500 Motore Centrale is a substantial re-engineering of the Italian retro hatch. The engine has been moved – apparently to a glass display case – in the rear, and extensively modified in the process. With a new turbocharger and intercooler, new catalytic converter and pistons, the 1.4-liter turbo four now drives 230 metric horsepower to the rear wheels, aided by an electronic limited-slip differential.

While the front MacPherson struts have been left intact, a new wishbone suspension has been crafted for the rear, joined by upgraded brakes with four-pot calipers all around and some revised bodywork with ducting fitted to help keep the engine cool in its new orientation. Aznom, meanwhile, has been brought on board strictly to outfit the interior with Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara.

The road-going R230 is quoted for a 4.7-second sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) and a 240 km/h (150 mph) top end. An R280 Pista version is also available with an extra 50 horses and 220 fewer pounds, plus a mechanical diff, full roll cage, adjustable suspension and data recorder, dropping its sprint down to 3.9 seconds and raising its top end up to 260 km/h (160 mph). No word on pricing, but you can bet that getting a budget hatchback to reach those kinds of numbers isn’t a cheap proposition.

Have a closer look in the gallery below, and follow the jump to see and hear the pocket rocket zipping around the streets of Monte Carlo thanks to Marco at Marchettino. Thanks to all for the tips!

Gallery: Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230

[Source: MotoreCentrale.com via Italiaspeed]

Continue reading Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video]

Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge and Apex concepts bow in New York [w/video]

Filed under: Concept Cars, New York Auto Show, Hybrid, Sedan, Performance, Suzuki

Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge

Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki is building a car that we wish more people knew about – the Kizashi. The automaker’s mid-size sedan was featured in Suzuki’s first-ever Super Bowl ad, a modified version set a Bonneville speed record and the stock car traveled a grueling trail from Tokyo to Los Angeles. Now, Suzuki has prepared two new concept versions, showing us what might be in store for the Kizashi down the road. And believe us, are fingers are crossed that these two make it to production.

First up, the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept is a hybrid sedan that adds a touch of style to a segment rarely getting that extra dash of curb appeal. (Sorry, Ford Fusion Hybrid – you aren’t nearly as pretty as this thing.) Traditional gasoline oomph is provided courtesy of a 2.0-liter inline-four, while a 15-kilowatt motor and 115-volt, air-cooled, lithium-ion battery give the EcoCharge its electric giddy-up. Suzuki says the combination is good for a 25 percent increase over the standard Kizashi’s 30-mile-per-gallon highway fuel-economy rating. But it’s not just the hybrid powertrain providing the MPG lift – the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept is fitted with start/stop, has regenerative braking and wears low-rolling resistance tires.

To help it stand apart from its standard Kizashi siblings, Suzuki has gussied up the exterior of the EcoCharge. Unique headlights, LEDs in the fascia and a white satin paint job communicate that this Kizashi has something else going on. The LEDs also help communicate that this is still a concept, since we don’t think the local authorities would be too fond of the blue lights up front (they’re illegal, y’all).

The EcoCharge wasn’t the only sedan on the stand. On the other end of the spectrum, the automaker debuted something more focused on outright performance rather than efficiency.

Continue reading Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge and Apex concepts bow in New York…

Continue reading Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge and Apex concepts bow in New York [w/video]

Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge and Apex concepts bow in New York [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Ford Taurus SHO looks better, but no bump in power [w/video]

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedan, Ford

2013 Ford Taurus SHO

2013 Ford Taurus SHO – Click above for high-res image gallery

Those of you hoping for a 400-horsepower Ford Taurus SHO are about to be severely disappointed. The 2013 Taurus SHO will continue to produce 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque from its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. Sure, that’s still plenty of oomph for the SHO, but with rumors of a higher-output version now dashed, all we can say is, “shucks.”

Let’s not dwell on that, though. There are still plenty of improvements for the 2013 SHO to talk about.

Much like the rest of the refreshed Taurus line, the SHO features styling tweaks at both the front and rear. Unlike the base model, the SHO uses a unique mesh grille pattern up front and adds a new rear spoiler out back, as well as chrome-tipped dual exhaust pipes. A new 20-inch dark wheel option is also part of the SHO package, matching the black finish found on the mirrors and body trim. We like what we see.

There may not be a bump in power, but the 2013 Taurus SHO does get a new performance package option that is said to improve the car’s performance prowess. Most notably, a 3.16:1 final drive ratio means initial acceleration is enhanced, and revised suspension tuning features new dampers and springs specific to this package. Additionally, the electronic steering system has been tuned, the stability control now has a track mode with a true ‘off’ setting and performance brake pads are now available with unique, “track-tuned” calipers. Still, we’d love to see an additional 40-ish horsepower.

Hit the jump for the official SHO details, and be sure to click through our high-res image gallery to see the tweaked design for yourself. Ford’s B-roll footage of the SHO is available for your viewing pleasure post-jump, as well.

Gallery: 2013 Ford Taurus SHO

2013 Ford Taurus SHO

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2013 Ford Taurus SHO looks better, but no bump in power [w/video]

2013 Ford Taurus SHO looks better, but no bump in power [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Ford Taurus gets 2.0L EcoBoost four, styling tweaks [w/video]

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedan, Ford

2013 Ford Taurus

2013 Ford Taurus – Click above for high-res image gallery

Upon taking the wraps off of the 2013 Ford Taurus, Derrick Kuzak, the automaker’s group vice president of global product development, said the styling tweaks were wholly influenced by the new Audi A6. Sure, the new front fascia and LED square around the taillamps are total Audi knock-offs, but what’s important to learn from this is that Ford is using the A6 as its target for the Taurus, and with a host of updates for the 2013 model year, Ford’s flagship gets one step closer to being an Audi alternative.

All in, the design tweaks give the Taurus an added sense of aggressiveness, though the car is still immediately recognizable as a successor to the all-new flagship that debuted for the 2010 model year. The trapezoidal grille has been tweaked, and now features active air shutters to improve overall fuel economy. The hood has been fully resculpted, and out back, tweaked taillamps with LED running lights blend into a slightly revised rear fascia. Dual exhaust tips are now standard across the board, as are new 20-inch wheel options.

The big enhancements for 2013 are the Taurus’ powertrains. Ford’s trusty 3.5-liter V6 still serves as the base engine, though its output has been bumped up to 290 horsepower – a full 27 more horses than the outgoing car. New for 2013, though, is the addition of the automaker’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, rated at 237 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. With the EcoBoost engine underhood, the Taurus is estimated to achieve up to 31 miles per gallon on the highway.

Inside, there’s a new steering wheel and more soft-touch materials have been added to the dash and center console, which now uses the automaker’s MyFord Touch infotainment system. Other new enhancements include the addition of Ford’s curve control system – first seen on the Explorer – that enhances cornering capability and braking control. Speaking of brakes, the Taurus also gets a larger brake master cylinder, meaning braking feel should be substantially better.

Pricing will be announced closer to the car’s on-sale date in early 2012, and while the 2013 Taurus might not be a perfect competitor to Audi’s A6, it’s sure to offer similar content (and style) at a much lower price-point. Check out all the details for yourself in the press release after the jump, as well as some B-roll footage of the new car. We’ll have plenty of live photos and impressions from the car’s official New York Auto Show debut, as well.

Gallery: 2013 Ford Taurus

2013 Ford Taurus

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2013 Ford Taurus gets 2.0L EcoBoost four, styling tweaks [w/video]

2013 Ford Taurus gets 2.0L EcoBoost four, styling tweaks [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Think you’re ready for an EV? The BMW EVolve app has the answer [w/video]

BMW EVolve App for iPhone – Click above for high-res image gallery

I want an EV. Call me an early adopting sucker, but I’ve been actively considering an electric vehicle after spending a week with the Tesla Roadster Sport. But the Tesla is way beyond my meager means and the Nissan Leaf is just too pedestrian for my gearhead tastes. So what’s left? Not much. The Focus Electric makes a strong case for itself, but it’s still a ways out, and while the Tesla Model S certainly has styling, size and geeky sex-appeal on its side, like the Roadster, it’s beyond my budget.

So there’s one option left. And it’s a good one. With rear-wheel drive, a reasonable range and a lease price that – ~~while yet to be set~~ $499 a month with a $2,250 downpayment – I’ve been assured should be within reach of a full-time blogger. I’m talking about the BMW 1 Series-based ActiveE. And if BMW’s latest app for the iPhone and Android is any indication, the ActiveE could be the perfect fit for me. But what about you?

Continue reading Think you’re ready for an EV? The BMW EVolve app has the answer…

Gallery: BMW EVolve iPhone App

Continue reading Think you’re ready for an EV? The BMW EVolve app has the answer [w/video]

Think you’re ready for an EV? The BMW EVolve app has the answer [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Citroën DS5 revealed in Shanghai [w/video]

Filed under: Hybrid, Wagon, Europe, Videos, Hatchback, Citroën, Shanghai Motor Show, Design/Style, Diesel

Citroen DS5

Citroën DS5 – Click above for high-res image gallery

Citroën has taken the digital wraps off of its upcoming DS5 as part of its debut at this week’s Shanghai Motor Show, and from the looks of things, the new model is about as sexy as a small wagon/hatch can be. There’s plenty of influence from the smaller DS3 thanks to an aggressively swept nose and curvaceous flanks, though expect to find a lot more interior room on board. The new production Citroën takes dead aim at manufacturers like BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz, albeit with a uniquely French sensibility.

Technically, the DS5 is based on the Peugeot 508 platform, which means that the Citroën will likely inherit some of that sedan’s favorable driving characteristics. Drivetrain options are still up in the air at the moment, though word has it that buyers will be able to get their hands on a hybrid version once the car sees showrooms. In that guise, the wagon will boast around 200 horsepower thanks to a diesel engine up front and an electric motor out back.

Hit the jump to check out the full video unveil and to check out the official press release. Thanks for the tip, Walter!

Gallery: Citroen DS5

[Source: Citroën via Autoblog.it]

Continue reading Citroën DS5 revealed in Shanghai [w/video]

Citroën DS5 revealed in Shanghai [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Viper ACR breaks Miller Motorsports Park production car lap record [w/video]

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Dodge

Dodge Viper ACR at Miller Motorsports Park

Dodge Viper ACR at Miller Motorsports Park – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Dodge Viper ACR is no longer in production, but it remains one of the most impressive sports cars ever built as evidenced by a recent trip to Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah. Dodge Motorsports brought a 2010 Viper ACR to the track along with road racer Kuno Wittmer, and the result was a record-smashing lap time of 1:59.995 – nearly four seconds faster than the previous record of 2:03.86 held by a Corvette ZR1 driven by Jan Magnussen.

This isn’t the first time the Viper ACR has broken a track record for a production car. In 2008, Dutch driver Tom Coronel piloted a Viper ACR to a record 7:22.1 lap time around the Nürburgring, and one year later, an SRT vehicle dynamics engineer broke the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca lap record with a time of 1:33.92.

You can read more about the Dodge Viper ACR’s lap record at Miller Motorsports Park as well as watch video footage of the car on track after the jump.

Gallery: Dodge Viper ACR at Miller Motorsports Park

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Dodge Viper ACR breaks Miller Motorsports Park production car lap record [w/video]

Dodge Viper ACR breaks Miller Motorsports Park production car lap record [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Belated April Fools? Audi A5 leans into corners like a motorcycle [w/video]

Filed under: Etc., Videos, Audi

audi a5 prototype

This Audi A5 thinks it’s a motorcycle – Click above to watch video after the jump

We recently tried to find all the April Fools-related automotive items that the Internet served up for 2011. We thought we had ’em all… but we may have just found one more to add to the list, courtesy of Spanish-language site Cochesafondo.com.

It reports that Audi is working on a suspension system that allows a car to lean into a turn. It’s installed the setup into an A5, prompting a pair of engineers to bring a very stable cup of coffee along for a test ride. Of course, one bump and your lap would be pain soup regardless of the suspension being tested.

Click past the jump to watch the clip. Then sound off in the Comments and let us know if you think this is real or not.

[Source: Youtube via Cocheafondo.com]

Continue reading Belated April Fools? Audi A5 leans into corners like a motorcycle [w/video]

Belated April Fools? Audi A5 leans into corners like a motorcycle [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lingenfelter at work on new World’s Fastest Camaro [w/video]

Filed under: Aftermarket, Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Videos, Chevrolet

Lingenfelter Black Chevrolet Camaro

Lingenfelter Chevrolet Camaro – Click above to watch video after the jump

The best thing about drag racing is that fast is never fast enough. After building a Chevrolet Camaro that comfortably waltzed down the quarter mile in under nine seconds, the crew at Lingenfelter are hell-bent on making the machine do the deed in even less time. As a result, the mad wrenches have worked up a 427-cubic-inch LSX engine with a pair of ported LS3 six-bolt heads. All projections have the mighty beating heart churning out somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,200 horsepower with the locomotive grunt getting channeled to the rear wheels via a TR6060 gearbox.

The company hasn’t taken its new quarter-mile king to the track just yet, but it has been so kind as to slip the internet a peek at the machine on the dyno. According to the video after the jump, what you’re seeing is a wide-open-throttle shift from third to fourth with both stages of nitrous in full glory. We’re nearly positive that eons ago, this is why man tamed fire. Hit the jump to check out the action for yourself.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continue reading Lingenfelter at work on new World’s Fastest Camaro [w/video]

Lingenfelter at work on new World’s Fastest Camaro [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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