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Nissan Esflow concept is a sporty RWD Leaf [w/video]

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Geneva Motor Show, Technology, Nissan, Design/Style, Electric

Nissan Esflow concept rendering

Nissan Esflow concept rendering- Click above to watch the video after the break

Nissan has just announced it’s bringing a new sports car concept called the Esflow to the Geneva Motor Show next month. The released images show a vehicle with classic sporty proportions, but we’re advised its potential for shrieking rubber has been tempered by the environmental credentials that electric propulsion can bring.

The Esflow uses tech developed for the mass-market Leaf EV hatchback, but uses a separate motor to turn each rear wheel and should hit 60 miles per hour from a standstill in under five seconds. The laminated lithium batteries are mounted low to help out the center of gravity and are said to be good for 150 miles (240 km) per charge. Any weight penalty of the energy storage system is offset by an rollbar-integrated aluminum chassis swathed in a composite shell.

While we doubt this particular concept will find a home in dealerships or driveways, it’s nice to see Nissan isn’t just concentrating their electric efforts on its more pedestrian platforms, and it could point the way to a sportier EV future for the brand. Hit the jump for a little video of the concept cruising the rendered road in animated action.

Gallery: Nissan Esflow concept

Nissan Esflow concept

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan Esflow concept is a sporty RWD Leaf [w/video]

Nissan Esflow concept is a sporty RWD Leaf [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chicago 2011: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the fastest, most powerful ever [w/video]

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – Click above for high-res image gallery

The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 was a performance monster, featuring an all-aluminum engine displacing 427 cubic inches that was originally intended for racing. Just 69 units were built, and they are highly coveted by collectors today. Perhaps it shouldn’t come as a surprise, then, that Chevrolet chose to resurrect this classic moniker for what it is calling the fastest and most technologically advanced Camaro ever built.

At this point, specifications are still preliminary, but Chevrolet is estimating that its supercharged and intercooled 6.2-liter LSA V8 engine will put out around 550 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque. Those ponies will be sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission using a dual-disc clutch that’s necessary to properly harness all those horses. There’s also a dual-mode exhaust system that alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm.

Chevrolet tells us that its goal was to build “a Camaro intended to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and excellent driving dynamics on the street.” To that end, the 2012 Camaro ZL1 will be fitted with a new electric power steering system and Magnetic Ride Control that will offer both Tour and Sport modes. Brembo brakes measuring 14.6-inch (370 mm) in the front (with six-piston calipers) and 14.4-inch (365 mm) at the rear (with four-piston calipers) bring it all back down from speed.

Naturally, there’s an updated body kit to differentiate the ZL1 from lesser machines. Most notable are the redesigned fascia that features a front splitter, vertical fog lamps and air intakes designed for brake cooling. There’s also a new aluminum hood with a raised, satin black-finish carbon fiber insert that uses a unique air extractor that is said to increase downforce by directing oncoming air over the car. There’s also a spoiler at the rear of the car and new 20-inch aluminum wheels fitted with specially developed Goodyear Supercar F2 tires.

Chevrolet promises to have the Camaro ZL1 on dealer lots in the beginning of 2012, and it will be available in any color offered on the Camaro. We can hardly wait. In the meantime, check out all the details in the video and press release after the break, and feel free to drool over the high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: Chicago 2011

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Gallery: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading Chicago 2011: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the fastest, most powerful ever [w/video]

Chicago 2011: 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the fastest, most powerful ever [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Zero Motorcycles 2011 lineup reveals dramatic changes [w/video]

Filed under: Performance, Motorcycle, Electric, Off-Road

2011 Zero S pulls a stoppie on a pier

2011 Zero S pulls a stoppie on a pier – Click above to watch video after the jump

Zero Motorcycles has just unveiled its lineup for 2011, and while the model names remain the same, the changes in each are striking. The company seems to have done a good job of listening to customer feedback and have rethought and reengineered their entire range. The bikes that begin shipping in March will not only have upgraded brakes, wheels and other components, they will also all be capable of charging in half the time with an optional J1772 connecter that is now the public charging station standard. And that’s just for starters.

Both the 2011 trail-riding X and its more hardcore brother, the MX, are now available in fully-homolugated street versions with lights, mirrors and different gearing for higher speeds. The MX has been given a beefier Agni motor and is good for 57 miles per hour in full road-going dress. Both still retain the same quick acceleration as their dirt-bound brothers.

The dual-sport and street machines from Zero have their own surprises. Both the DS and S are now quieter and require less maintenance, having traded in their chains for a belt drive set up. As well, their batteries have gained 12.5 per cent more capacity and both have an EPA UDDS range of 43 miles with maximum distance listed as 58 miles. The S has also been lowered two inches to enhance its handling.

Don’t forget to hit the jump to watch each bike’s own (music-free, thank you) video along with three more high-res image galleries and the official press release. If that’s not enough to satisfy your curiosty, there is lots more info over at Zero’s website.

Gallery: 2011 Zero DS

[Source: Zero Motorcycles]

Continue reading Zero Motorcycles 2011 lineup reveals dramatic changes [w/video]

Zero Motorcycles 2011 lineup reveals dramatic changes [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Meet Max Page, Volkswagen’s Darth Vader [w/video]

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Volkswagen, Celebrities

Volkswagen Vader

Volkswagen’s “The Force” Super Bowl ad – Click above to watch video after the jump

Volkswagen was responsible for one of the more memorable Super Bowl ads Sunday night with its spot for the 2012 Passat thanks largely to the efforts of one tiny Darth Vader. As it turns out, the pint-sized Sith lord was played by none other than six-year-old Max Page. The actor got his start last year by playing Reed Hellstrom on The Young and the Restless soap opera, and according to Volkswagen, the junior thespian was nothing but professional during the Super Bowl ad shoot. Tim Ellis, Volkswagen of America vice president of marketing, said that the instant they began shooting, he knew the commercial was going to make waves.

Page is special for more than one reason. Despite a recurring role on daytime television and some excellent comedic timing, he also has a congenital heart condition that has required care at a Los Angeles Children’s Hospital. Hit the jump to check out the spot one more time.

[Source: USA Today]

Continue reading Meet Max Page, Volkswagen’s Darth Vader [w/video]

Meet Max Page, Volkswagen’s Darth Vader [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GT Academy flaw exposed by cheaters who currently top the podium [w/video]

Filed under: Videos, Toys/Games

GT Academy

GT Academy cheaters – Click above to watch video after the jump

A handful of Gran Turismo 5 players are currently battling it out for a shot at becoming a real-world race car driver in Polyphony’s GT Academy, but according to GT Planet, there may be a bit of an issue. Currently, the top three drivers are using a less-than-sanctioned route to get around the track by dipping off of the asphalt and cutting two corners entirely to come up with a significantly quicker lap time than everyone else.

To put it simply, the three players who are on the podium right now are cheating.

Now, cheating is a staple of both video gamedom and the hallowed halls of racing, so it should come as no surprise that someone has figured out a way to get around a track quicker than everyone else by ~~bending~~ obliterating the rules. Still, it kind of ruffles our feathers to know that the top award could go to the shadiest man (or woman) standing.

So far, there’s no word on whether or not Polyphony will step in to quell the competitor’s cheating ways. Hit the jump to have a look at the videos for yourself.

[Source: GT Planet]

Continue reading GT Academy flaw exposed by cheaters who currently top the podium [w/video]

GT Academy flaw exposed by cheaters who currently top the podium [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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McLaren MP4-12C enters production, Hamilton and Button celebrate [w/video]

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos

McLaren MP4-12C at Goodwood – Click above to watch the video after the break

The very first McLaren MP4-12C built for public consumption has begun to make its way through the production process. Chassis 01 isn’t quite finished yet, as you can see by our high-res image gallery below, but it will be soon enough and McLaren plans to build up to 999 more in 2011.

Starting at $229,000, the MP4-12C is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 that produces 600 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Prototype versions have been out running at various locations and events, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed and a very snowy Top Gear Test Track.

To celebrate Chassis 01 entering production, McLaren has put together a short clip that highlights its past year of testing. Click past the jump to watch Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button put the McLaren MP4-12C through a set of workouts.

Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C enters production

McLaren MP4-12C enters production

[Source: McLaren, YouTube]

Continue reading McLaren MP4-12C enters production, Hamilton and Button celebrate [w/video]

McLaren MP4-12C enters production, Hamilton and Button celebrate [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It’s The New Black: Cadillac unveils Black Diamond Edition CTS-V [w/video]

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Wagon, Cadillac, Luxury

Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition

Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition – Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors has just unveiled its new take on the mighty Cadillac CTS-V called the Black Diamond Edition. Available on all iterations of the supercharged beast (sedan, coupe and wagon), the appearance package dips the company’s muscle-bound luxury fleet in new, proprietary SpectraFlair paint. The final product is achieved through a three-coat process that includes flakes of aluminum encapsulated in magnesium fluoride. The result is a paint that’s as gorgeous as it will undoubtedly prove impossible to repair.

This is not a car that’s to be left anywhere near a shopping cart.

The paint is joined by a set of Satin Graphite 19-inch wheels and yellow Brembo brake calipers outside. Slide yourself indoors and meet an interior that boasts microfiber suede Recaro seats and Midnight Sapele wood accents littered throughout the cabin. GM says that the whole package is meant to invoke images of a well-tailored tuxedo.

Prices start at $69,190 for manual transmission models and $70,490 for the automatic, including destination. Those figures mark a $4,850 bump over the standard CTS-V, and buyers can expect some fluctuation depending on whether they opt for the sedan, coupe or wagon body style. Follow the jump for the official press release and to see GM folks explain the Black Diamond Edition in a video.

Gallery: 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading It’s The New Black: Cadillac unveils Black Diamond Edition CTS-V [w/video]

It’s The New Black: Cadillac unveils Black Diamond Edition CTS-V [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Subaru’s reborn rally team beaten by privateer at season-opening Sno*Drift [w/video]

Filed under: Motorsports, Sedan, Performance, Videos, Hatchback, Subaru, Racing

Sno Drift Rally

Sno Drift Rally – Click above to watch the video after the jump

After losing both Ken Block and Travis Pastrana last year, Subaru’s American rally efforts are undergoing a bit of rebuilding. The factory-backed Pleiades team took to the stages for the first time this season at Sno*Drift 2011 in Atlanta, Michigan, and despite a solid effort, driver Dave Mirra found himself three minutes and 53.1 seconds behind the father and son team of Travis and Terry Hanson in their 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Their win made United States rallying history as the duo became the first Super Production class effort to win a National Rally America event.

Day one saw Sno*Drift favorites Antoine L’Estage and David Higgins both forced to retire, leaving the Hanson duo to widen the gap between themselves and their closest competitors. Mirra, meanwhile, was handicapped by a tire puncture that saw the factory Subaru team fall all the way to fifth place before clawing its way back to take the silver.

The Hanson team was joined on the podium by Joseph Burke, another Super Production class contender. Burke was last year’s Rookie of the Year, and managed to give Mirra a solid fight for second place despite limited experience on snow and ice. Hit the jump for an excellent recap video.

[Source: Rally-America]

Continue reading Subaru’s reborn rally team beaten by privateer at season-opening Sno*Drift [w/video]

Subaru’s reborn rally team beaten by privateer at season-opening Sno*Drift [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vaughn Gittin Jr. takes flight in the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor [w/video]

Filed under: Performance, Truck, Etc., Videos, Ford, Celebrities

Vaughn Gittin Jr. in the Ford F150 SVT Raptor

Vaughn Gittin Jr. in the Ford F150 SVT Raptor – Click above for high-res image gallery

By now, news that the Ford F150 SVT Raptor can get you over the river and through the woods to grandma’s house is older than the dirt splattered down the pickup’s side. Still, that doesn’t mean that we’re above taking a second to watch Vaughn Gittin Jr. put the FoMoCo beast through its paces. As you may recall, Gittin Jr. is the talented hellion who took the 2010 Formula Drift title, so the man knows a thing or two about stretching a vehicle to its limits and beyond.

Gittin Jr. teamed up with the crew from Wrecked Magazine to bash through the sand outside of Las Vegas when someone threw open the gates to the local CORR track. That’s when things got really interesting. The drift guru set to vaulting the pickup to ever loftier heights. At one point, re-entry causes the Raptor’s frame to flex enough to cause the tail gate to pop open on contact with terra firma – impressive given what this bruiser was engineered to withstand. Hit the jump to see the video for yourself.

Gallery: Vaughn Gittin Jr. in the Ford F150 SVT Raptor

[Sources: YouTube, Wrecked Magazine]

Continue reading Vaughn Gittin Jr. takes flight in the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor [w/video]

Vaughn Gittin Jr. takes flight in the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hot Wheels Video Racer coming this Fall for $60 [w/video]

Filed under: Technology, Videos, Toys/Games

Hot Wheels Video Racer

Hot Wheels Video Racer in action – Click above to watch the video after the break

In case you hadn’t noticed, we’re firmly entrenched in the year 2011. Clearly, it’s high time for the little 1:64-scale cars your fathers were playing with when they were your little boy’s age to get an update, and Hot Wheels has just stepped up to the plate in a big way.

Come Christmas time, you’ll be able to fill stockings with the Video Racer, which, as its name suggests, adds a tiny camera to the front of your favorite little micro-sized motorer. Even cooler is the itty-bitty LCD screen you see when you flip to the bottom of the car, where you can then watch up to 12 minutes of recorded footage.

You can also use a USB connection to hook the Video Racer to your computer, and the little cars come equipped with attachments that allow them to be worn on the wrist (for covert spy work?), helmet, bicycle, skateboard or anything else that suits your fancy.

For $59.99 (we’ll let you be the judges on the value proposition), you’ll be able to purchase one of these little jewels this fall, and that price includes video editing software that works on Windows-powered PCs. Well done, Mattel. Check out a video of the Video Racer after the break.

[Source: Pocket-Lint, YouTube via Inside Line]

Continue reading Hot Wheels Video Racer coming this Fall for $60 [w/video]

Hot Wheels Video Racer coming this Fall for $60 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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