Paris Preview: Exagon Furtive e-GT is a range-extended super-electric coupe [w/video]

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Europe, Technology, Paris Motor Show, Electric

Exagon Furtive e-GT – Click above to watch the video after the jump

Born of Exagon Engineering, constructor of many a race car (including the eight ice-melting machines that contested the Trophée Andros Electrique last season), Exagon Motors has uncloaked a new street machine for a handful of French journalists, and the car’s performance numbers will probably raise more eyebrows than its looks.

The 2+2 is said to achieve a Tesla Roadster-beating 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds with twin Siemens motors producing 340 horsepower. The all-important, all-electric range is similar to the Silicon Valley speedster as well, with 400 kilometers (248.5 miles) claimed as the distance possible before the need for its on-board gasoline motor to kick in to take you the next 400 kms.

It appears the French manufacturer could begin production as soon as 2012. As far as the price goes, we’re going to guess this is is one of those, “if you have to ask, you can’t afford it” type of deals. Still, we’ll ask anyway when we check it out for ourselves in the metal. Or carbon fiber. Or whatever it is. In the meantime, you can get a great look, inside and out, in the video reveal awaiting you after the break.

Gallery: Exagon Furtive e-GT

[Sources: Zer Customs, Turbo.fr]

Continue reading Paris Preview: Exagon Furtive e-GT is a range-extended super-electric coupe [w/video]

Paris Preview: Exagon Furtive e-GT is a range-extended super-electric coupe [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris Preview: Citroën teases DS3 WRC car (w/video)

Filed under: Motorsports, Paris Motor Show, Citroën, Racing

Citroen DS3 WRC

Citroën DS3 WRC teaser – Click above to watch video after the jump

Citroën’s DS3 WRC entrant, the car they’ve chosen to adapt to the new regulations, will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next week. Among the deluge of pics and videos teasing all manner of creations we’ll be seeing on the French floor, the Gallic firm has strung together a few shadowy snippets of the hot hatch that Sébastien Loeb will pilot next year (according to him, his final year) in his attempt to win yet another title. He’ll have to beat the new Mini Countryman WRC along the way. Follow the jump to be teased. Hat tip to Dan

[Source: YouTube via WRC.com]

Continue reading Paris Preview: Citroën teases DS3 WRC car (w/video)

Paris Preview: Citroën teases DS3 WRC car (w/video) originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 Sep 2010 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Stig’s favorite car is… the Toyota Aygo? [w/video]

Filed under: Europe, Celebrities

Toyota Aygo

Click above to view the videos after the jump

Just when you thought there wasn’t any more news to be drained from Stig-gate, Ben Collins has come out and announced his favorite car from his time beneath the white helmet. Surprisingly enough, it’s not some high-dollar sports machine. Instead, Collins says that the most fun he ever had behind the wheel while employed with the BBC was in a Toyota Aygo. He and a gaggle of other race drivers spent an afternoon playing car soccer with the Aygo, and after a full day of abuse, the little Toyota just kept on chugging along.

But if Collins is choosing a piece of high-end metal to adore, the guy said that the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport helped form some of his best memories of Top Gear. Yeah, we can see that one.

The former tame racing driver’s least favorite car? Well, that’s a surprise, too. That honor goes to a Koenigsegg. Collins infamously binned one of the ultra-rare machines during shooting – the only car to suffer damage while in his care. Videos of both segments are available after the jump.

Publisher HarperCollins plans on releasing Collins’ autobiography, The Man in the White Suit: The Stig, Le Mans, The Fast Lane and Me soon. Thanks for the tip, Kris!

[Source: The Daily Telegraph]

Continue reading The Stig’s favorite car is… the Toyota Aygo? [w/video]

The Stig’s favorite car is… the Toyota Aygo? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris Preview: Five-door Range Rover Evoque caught prepping for show [w/video]

Filed under: Spy Photos, Paris Motor Show, Crossover, Land Rover, Luxury

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque five-door

When Land Rover officially revealed the Range Rover Evoque they didn’t include a single shot of the five-door baby crossover utility. Thankfully, someone with early access to the upcoming Paris Motor Show floor decided that was some kind of crime, and so they took shots of the more family-minded Evoque occupying the Land Rover stand. The secret snapper also got images of the cabin, and we think it’s beautiful distillation of the Range Rover Sport’s interior language. We can’t wait to see it ourselves next week.

For now, have a look at the link below for more shots of the Evoque five-door, and be sure to hit the jump for a video of the two-door.

[Source: 0-100.ro]

Continue reading Paris Preview: Five-door Range Rover Evoque caught prepping for show [w/video]

Paris Preview: Five-door Range Rover Evoque caught prepping for show [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler UAW employees work hard play hard; busted for drinking, smoking weed during break [w/video]

Filed under: Etc., Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Plants/Manufacturing, Videos, Chrysler, UAW/Unions

Chrysler plant workers enjoying an extended break

Chrysler workers enjoying a break – Click above to watch video after the jump

Making your way in the world today takes everything you’ve got. Taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot. Wouldn’t you like to get away…? Some members of the UAW, employed at Chrysler’s Jefferson North Plant in Detroit, feel the need to do just that. The team at My Fox Detroit received a tip about some auto workers who were using their breaks to catch a little buzz before heading back to the line. The video, which you can watch after the jump, shows several plant employees meeting in a parking lot and throwing back some cold ones. The camera also catches a few folks enjoying some of Michigan’s finest herb. Maybe this is how you respond to working after winning the lottery?

Make the jump for the video and responses from Chrysler and the UAW.

[Source: My Fox Detroit]

Continue reading Chrysler UAW employees work hard play hard; busted for drinking, smoking weed during break [w/video]

Chrysler UAW employees work hard play hard; busted for drinking, smoking weed during break [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston-Martin One-77 world’s most powerful normally-aspirated road car? [w/video]

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Aston Martin, UK, Luxury

Aston Martin One-77

2011 Aston Martin One-77 – Click above to watch video after the jump

Aston Martin continues to march forward with its One-77. The soon-to-be-ultra-rare hypercar is closer than ever to production, and according to the minds behind its creation, when it hits the street, it will boast the world’s most powerful naturally-aspirated production car engine. With 750 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque, the 7.3-liter V12 is a marvel of automotive and acoustic engineering.

Despite the company’s plans to produce just 77 examples of its halo model, Aston Martin says that it’s bent on making sure that each and every one of the vehicles can stand up to the same level of abuse as the rest of its production fleet. That means that somewhere out there, a One-77 prototype is being flogged in the world’s most brutal climates.

Aston Martin has released the fourth installment of its video series on the One-77, complete with all of the long, slow-motion shots your little heart could possibly desire and a glorious soundtrack. If you’re lucky enough to have secured a One-77 for yourself, the company says that deliveries should begin during the first half of 2011. Hit the jump to take a look and for a quick read over the press release.

Gallery: Aston Martin One-77 at Galpin Motors

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2009 AOL

[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston-Martin One-77 world’s most powerful normally-aspirated road car? [w/video]

Aston-Martin One-77 world’s most powerful normally-aspirated road car? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Carl Edwards, Travis Pastrana will represent U.S. at Race of Champions [w/Video]

Filed under: Motorsports, Videos, Racing

Race of Champions 2010 - Travis Pastrana and Carl Edwards

Carl Edwards and Travis Pastrana represent US at ROC 2010 – Click above to watch video after the jump

The 2010 Race of Champions, a motorsports event with global intrigue, is scheduled for November 27-28 and will be held at the ESPRIT arena in Düsseldorf, Germany. There are currently eight confirmed drivers gunning to be the number one worldwide wheelman.

Representing the United States will be 2007 NASCAR Champion Carl Edwards and 11-time X-Games Gold Medalist Travis Pastrana. Edwards ran in the 2008 ROC event along with Tanner Foust, who replaced Patrana after the rally-racer broke his hip a week prior to the event. Pastrana has competed in the Race of Champions as far back as 2005, including a stint in 2006 where he drove every round for the Stars and Stripes. Both Jimmie Johnson and Scott Speed were injured that year with no replacements lined up. Pastrana still managed to come in second that year.

The Race of Champions was started back in 1988 by rally extraordinaire Michèle Mouton and IMP president Frederik Johnsson. The goal was to find out who was the best rally driver, but the competition has expanded to allow competitors from all types of motorsport disciplines. In addition to Pastrana and Edwards, we know that Michael Schumacher, Alain Prost, Sébastien Loeb, Sebastian Vettel, Tom Kristensen and Andy Priaulx are all confirmed for the 2010 ROC.

Mark the date on your calendars now because that lineup (plus more drivers to be announced) is sure to provide plenty of breathtaking displays of driving precision, and hit the jump for a video.

Gallery: Race of Champions 2009

[Source: ESPN, Race of Champions]

Continue reading Carl Edwards, Travis Pastrana will represent U.S. at Race of Champions [w/Video]

Carl Edwards, Travis Pastrana will represent U.S. at Race of Champions [w/Video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gran Turismo 5 reveals virtual X1 prototype racecar to warp minds and stretch imagination [w/video]

Filed under: Etc., Videos, Toys/Games, Specialty

Gran Turismo 5 X1 Prototype teaser

Gran Turismo 5 X1 Prototype – Click above to watch video after the jump

At some point in the future, Gran Turismo 5 will be available for purchase. And yes, it’s taken too damn long. But making the wait that much more painful is news fresh out of Tokyo that a special vehicle will be available for thumb-thrashing fun.

It’s not some uber-exotic that you pine for while staring longingly at photos on the web, nor is it some championship racecar from today or a bygone era. It’s nothing you’ve seen or heard about before – its called the X1 Prototype.

Digital Polyphony has teamed up with Adrian Newey from Red Bull Racing to ask: What would happen if a top-tier racecar was freed from any and all technical regulations? What speeds could it achieve, what would it look like and what automotive records could it devour? The answer to those questions, and possibly many others, could be found with the X1 (virtual) prototype vehicle.

The team who produces Gran Turismo is known for their attention to detail and the realistic tracks, while cars and driving dynamics are a major part of the popularity behind this series. So it’s safe to assume that the drivable concept sticks to the laws of physics while pushing technology to the limit. Think of it as a return to the turbocharged 80s-era F1 cars, with some Group B rally monsters thrown in along with a heaping helping of cutting edge technology.

Our interest in the return of GT5 has been waning after the dozens of delays, but the X1 has our interest seriously piqued, and the crew from Joystiq has snagged video of it in action. We also have a trailer video which shows off lots of the cool (real) cars, the amazing tracks and the dynamic weather we can look forward to. Take a look at both clips after the jump.

[Source: Joystiq]

Continue reading Gran Turismo 5 reveals virtual X1 prototype racecar to warp minds and stretch imagination [w/video]

Gran Turismo 5 reveals virtual X1 prototype racecar to warp minds and stretch imagination [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford introduces airbags with enhanced crash protection, debuting on 2012 Focus [w/video]

Filed under: Safety, Technology, Ford

Ford's next-gen airbag system

Ford’s next-generation airbag technology – Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford has given us a sneak peek at its production-ready 2012 Focus, and while our lips may be sealed about its specs and our impressions, we can now give you the lowdown on the Blue Oval’s new airbag technologies that will debut in its forthcoming C-segment stunner.

For the driver, the new steering wheel airbag uses a tether system that pulls in the lower section of the bag back toward the dashboard. This creates a small pocket that Ford engineers say will soften the blow of the airbag to the driver’s chest and ribs, reducing the threat of bodily injury in a frontal crash.

The side airbags also work to prevent injuries to the driver and front passenger by adding shoulder vents that stay open during inflation, reducing pressure for smaller occupants. Taller folks will block these vents with their shoulders, and this added pressure can actually prove to be helpful.

Along with the shoulder vents, Ford has used an adaptive venting system in its passenger-side front airbag, which diverts some of the inflation gas outside of the bags. This better protects passengers by enhancing head and neck protection by matching inflation force with the size of the occupant, which is monitored by the weight sensors already built into the seats.

As you’d expect, these safety features won’t just be limited to the 2012 Focus. Ford says that this technology will quickly spread to the rest of its model range within the next few years. To see exactly how these systems work, follow the jump to watch an instructional animated video, as well as actual crash test footage. Ford’s press release is available for your reading pleasure, as well.

Gallery: Ford’s Next-Generation Airbag Technology

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford introduces airbags with enhanced crash protection, debuting on 2012 Focus [w/video]

Ford introduces airbags with enhanced crash protection, debuting on 2012 Focus [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi S4 named Esquire Car of the Year [w/video]

Filed under: Etc.

2010 Audi S4 - Esquire 2010 COTY

Esquire’s 2010 COTY is the 2010 Audi S4 – Click above to watch video after the jump

Esquire, the purveyor of printed pages packed with ads and male-centric eye-candy, has released its list of 2010 automotive award winners. The top award is the Car of the Year and the magazine is handing that title to the 2010 Audi S4. Esquire makes a strong statement behind its reasoning, and it’s hard to argue with its logic.

Numbers and stats are starting points, but we believe that the Esquire Car of the Year should make you feel something deep in your gut. You should lust for it and dream about it, but it shouldn’t be an impossible goal. It must be attainable for the average man. It should sit in front of your house or office without drawing attention to itself and tackle four seasons of day-to-day transportation with ease. Yet crucially, sometimes, without warning, it must make you snatch the keys off the wall, haul off to the country and just drive.

After putting our own butts in the driver’s seat, we felt the B8 S4 was a wonderful leap forward over the past B6 and B7 iterations, particularly with the new supercharged V6 and trick torque vectoring sport differential.

Esquire hands out more than just a COTY award as well. The magazine scoured the current crop of automotive excellence and handed out check pluses for: Domestic Car of the Year, Hybrid of the Year, Most Awe-Inspiring Car Built This Year, Compact Car of the Year, Most Beautiful Car of the Year, Truck of the Year, Diesel Car of the Year, Best Foreign Comeback, Best Domestic Comeback and Best Expression of Automotive Passion. Who wins? You’re going to have to make the jump to find out. And there’s a nice little video of the Audi S4 happily accepting its award.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi S4

Photos copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Esquire]

Continue reading Audi S4 named Esquire Car of the Year [w/video]

Audi S4 named Esquire Car of the Year [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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