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Maker Faire Detroit 2010: Power Racing Series, as grassroots as it gets [w/Video]

Power Racing Series – Click above for high-res image gallery

One of the highlights of this weekend’s Detroit Maker Faire was the Michigan premiere of a new grassroots racing event: the Power Racing Series. The brainchild of Jim Burke, the Power Racing Series is like LeMons in that the machines have budgets limited to just $500 not including safety equipment. Unlike LeMons, the Power Racing Series vehicles are based on Fisher-Price Power Wheels or Little Tykes toys that have been modded to support the mass of adult drivers and larger 12-volt lead-acid car batteries.

This weekend’s competition features three individual events including a drag race, a 15-lap road race and a one-hour enduro on Sunday afternoon. The drag race was won by Royce Pipkins, president of the Milwaukee Maker Space, in his Grave Digger. When the 15-lap event began on Saturday afternoon, the #3 car built by the crew at the I3 Detroit hacker space clearly had more speed than any other vehicle. Unfortunately, about halfway through the race, the car ground to a halt. A key connecting the rear wheel to the axle had sheared the soft metal of the axle. The crew repeatedly tried pounding in new keys, but the car would only run another lap or two before running into trouble. Ultimately Pipkins had the durability and speed to finish 15 green-flag laps before anyone else. Look for the Power Racing Series at a parking lot near you soon.

Update: On Sunday afternoon, the Power Racers went back to the track for the one hour enduro and the extra distance took its toll on the field. Royce Pipkins and his Grave Digger pulled into the pits after 35 minutes with two burned out motors.The i3 Detroit also came at about 40 minutes and had to do some rewiring to bypass a failed motor controller. Meanwhile the OmniCorp Detroit team motored on to complete the most laps. The I3 Detroit machine ran third on the track but accumulated enough Moxie Points from the crowd to finish first overall and capture the 2010 Power Racing Series championship. Check out some video highlights after the jump.

Gallery: Maker Faire Detroit 2010: Power Racing Series

Continue reading Maker Faire Detroit 2010: Power Racing Series, as grassroots as it gets [w/Video]

Maker Faire Detroit 2010: Power Racing Series, as grassroots as it gets [w/Video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Aug 2010 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog gets seat and simulation time with Toyota’s newest safety technology [w/video]

Filed under: Hybrid, Japan, Safety, Technology, Videos, Lexus, Toyota

Inside Toyota’s Higashi-Fuji tech center – Click above for high-res image gallery

Sitting in the shadow of Mount Fuji, Toyota’s Higashi-Fuji technical center is part proving grounds and part engineering center. But unlike most facilities, Higashi-Fuji includes an array of engineering and research offices employing over 3,000 employees, and an assortment of non-track test facilities.

The Higashi-Fuji campus opened back in 1966 and has grown to encompass nearly 2.7 millionsquare feet of facility floor space. We were given the rare opportunity to visit the facility where we witnessed one unique crash test, tried out one of the world’s most advanced driving simulators and sampled an assortment of new safety features, including a brake override system, enhanced pre-collision braking, pedestrian detection and updated ABS calibrations for the Prius. Make the jump for the full report.

Gallery: Inside Toyota’s Higashi-Fuji tech center

Continue reading Autoblog gets seat and simulation time with Toyota’s newest safety technology [w/video]

Autoblog gets seat and simulation time with Toyota’s newest safety technology [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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X Games 16 Preview: Autoblog rides shotgun with the stars of Rally Car [w/video]

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Hatchback, Ford, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Celebrities, Racing

X Games 16 Subaru Practice Session – Click above for high-res image gallery

It was just a short time ago – five years, to be exact – that rallying was introduced as a competition in the X Games. The first event started out in spectacular fashion, with Travis Pastrana beating out the late Colin McRae after the former World Rally Championship winner rolled his car with just a few turns to go.

Since then, the competition has become stronger and car manufacturers have increased their involvement as interest in the sport has increased thanks to ESPN’s mainstream audience. This year looks to be one of the most exciting events yet with a host of new cars, new drivers, new rules and even a new event. Follow the jump to learn about what to expect for this year’s X Games 16 and what it’s like to ride shotgun in a 500-horsepower rally car.

Gallery: X Games 16 Rally Preview – Subaru

Gallery: X Games 16 Rally Preview – ACP Racing

Continue reading X Games 16 Preview: Autoblog rides shotgun with the stars of Rally Car [w/video]

X Games 16 Preview: Autoblog rides shotgun with the stars of Rally Car [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes-Benz unveils 2011 S63 AMG with twin-turbo 5.5L V8 [w/video]

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG – Click above for high-res image gallery

Engine downsizing has now come to the almost top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG with the adoption of AMG’s new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8. The new direct-injected V8 bumps output up from a mere 518 horsepower to 571 horsepower along with generating 663 pound-feet of torque between 2,250 and 3,750 rpm. That’s sufficient to propel this behemoth to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds in normal trim or 4.4 seconds if you opt for the AMG sports package.

The 2011 S63 also swaps out its previous torque converter automatic transmission for the multi-clutch unit from the SL63, a move which should lend it a more sporting feel. Just as other automakers get both performance and efficiency benefits from boosted direct-injected engines, the S63’s combine fuel economy numbers have jumped from 16.3 miles per gallon (U.S.) to 22.4 mpg on the EU test cycle. The EPA numbers aren’t yet available, but we would expect a similar real-world increase from the 2010 model’s 14 mpg, though perhaps a bit smaller since the EPA’s testing methodology won’t show any benefits from the S63’s new automatic start-stop feature. Official press release and driving footage video after the jump, spanking new high-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz unveils 2011 S63 AMG with twin-turbo 5.5L V8 [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz unveils 2011 S63 AMG with twin-turbo 5.5L V8 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Man spends nearly $200,000 to win right to park truck in his own driveway [w/video]

Filed under: Truck, Etc., Government/Legal, Videos, Work, Ford

Man pays nearly $200,000 to park truck in his own drive – click above to watch the video

Beware of the home owner’s association. Considered this country’s most basic, ruthless unit of government, HOAs are typically organized and manned by retirees with little better to do than tell you what to do with your property – something A.J. Vizzi recently learned the hard way. When Vizzi purchased his home in Odessa, Florida, he was told he would be allowed to park his Ford F-350 Super Duty in his home’s driveway, even though the neighborhood’s rules forbade keeping vehicles anywhere other than the garage. The truck didn’t fit in the home’s garage.

The local HOA soon changed its mind, and before long a lawsuit ensued. In 2008, a judge ruled in Vizzi’s favor, but the association quickly appealed the decision. In March, a second judge sided with Vizzi, and the courts awarded him $187,000 in legal fees to be paid by the HOA. In total, the association claims that the ordeal has cost over $300,000, including the cash it now has to pay to Vizzi. Take a look after the jump to watch a local news report on the legal battle. Thanks for the tip, Sea Urchin!

[Source: My Fox Tampa Bay]

Continue reading Man spends nearly $200,000 to win right to park truck in his own driveway [w/video]

Man spends nearly $200,000 to win right to park truck in his own driveway [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan reveals new object detection, rear-collision avoidance systems [w/video]

Filed under: Safety, Technology, Nissan

Nissan object detection and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist Concept – click above for high-res image gallery

Vehicles from an increasing number of automakers are becoming more aware of their surroundings than the drivers that operate them. The latest is Nissan, which has announced several new safety technologies set to be added to its lineup, including a Forward Collision Avoidance Assist Concept. The system works like similar systems from other manufacturers including Acura, Lexus, Ford and Mercedes-Benz, but evolves the concept even further.

A front-mounted radar sensor detects when the vehicle is closing too quickly and first warns the driver and then applies the brakes automatically to avoid or minimize the effects of a crash.

Additionally, the moving object detection uses the surround-view camera system to determine if there are pedestrians or other objects moving in proximity of the vehicle. Unlike pedestrian detection systems from Volvo and Lexus, this system only functions at very low speeds and doesn’t apply the brakes. Instead, the driver gets an audible and visual warning of anything moving around them. No specific vehicle applications or timing have been announced, but it’s safe to assume we’ll be seeing this tech featured on Infiniti’s wares sometime next year.

Gallery: Nissan object detection and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist Concept

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan reveals new object detection, rear-collision avoidance systems [w/video]

Nissan reveals new object detection, rear-collision avoidance systems [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Recycling Gone Wild: Turn your VW Jetta TDI into a Smyth Performance G3F [w/video]

Smyth Performance G3F concept – Click above to watch the video after the jump

Reduce-Reuse-Recycle is the tri-directive that could help us become more sustainable as a society. Soon, a kit for the G3F from Smyth Performance – a new venture by Factory Five Racing co-founder Mark Smith – will follow those guidelines, enabling you to convert a previously-enjoyed Volkswagen Jetta into something you can really look forward to driving. The finished product will be lighter, faster and burn less biodiesel than the original vehicle, offering up to 60 miles per gallon and boasting a very naughty top speed of 140 miles per hour. All for about $10,000 and less than 100 hours of labor.

It’s a simple recipe. You start by procuring a TDI diesel Jetta four door sedan. Cut away about 800 lbs of metal, reusing a large chunk of the chassis, including the entire safety structure. The engine gets chipped, modded and moved from in front of the driver to behind. Add the body, seats, wheels and all the other included bits from the kit and voila! You now own a recycled VW that increases your joy of driving while reducing the amount of petroleum product you’ll need to pump.

Okay, maybe we’re making it sound a little easier than it actually is, but Smith is confident there is enough interest to make a go of it with a line of depositors already being formed. Despite deliveries (optimistically) planned for September, the original prototype is still under construction. The operation doesn’t have an official website either – that’s coming this fall – but you can follow the progress of both car and company on both Facebook and the unofficial Factory Five forum. Hit the jump for video of Mr. Smith explaining his concept and tell us what you think.

[Source: Boston.com]

Continue reading Recycling Gone Wild: Turn your VW Jetta TDI into a Smyth Performance G3F [w/video]

Recycling Gone Wild: Turn your VW Jetta TDI into a Smyth Performance G3F [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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OnStar expands smartphone control to most 2011 General Motors vehicles [w/Video]

Filed under: Technology, GM

OnStar mobile applications – Click above for high-res image gallery

Early this year, General Motors’ OnStar telematics unit unveiled a smartphone application it had developed for the Chevrolet Volt that allows drivers to remotely manage the charging, locking and unlocking of their vehicle and pre-warm or cool it while plugged in. OnStar is now extending that basic concept to nearly the entire General Motors lineup for 2011.

One of the key hardware differences between OnStar and Ford’s Sync technology is that GM integrates cellular radios into the car while Ford relies on the driver’s existing phone connected via Bluetooth or a cable. This allows Ford to offer services like turn-by-turn directions without charging a subscription fee. OnStar has long struggled to find a way to convince customers to continue paying the subscription after the initial complimentary period expires.

The integrated cellular radio allows OnStar to offer services like remote starting, car location and lock/unlock from anywhere that can’t be done with Sync or just a short-range key fob. The applications will also provide access to vehicle data like tire pressures and oil levels, and allow owners to call an OnStar adviser or schedule service appointments with a dealer. The applications will be available for Androids and iPhones. You can check out a video after the jump.

Gallery: OnStar mobile applications

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading OnStar expands smartphone control to most 2011 General Motors vehicles [w/Video]

OnStar expands smartphone control to most 2011 General Motors vehicles [w/Video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Car and Driver launches ‘Save the Manuals!’ campaign [w/video]

Filed under: Etc., Humor

Car and Driver wants to Save the Manuals – Click above to watch the video after the break

The minds at Car and Driver have anointed themselves the champions of the manual transmission. In order to defend the three-pedal way of life from the onslaught of apathetic automatics out there, the magazine has initiated a new awareness campaign under the “Save the Manuals” banner. The plan is more of an awareness movement than anything else, complete with PSA videos, stickers and buttons. Watch out slushboxes, this is a no-holds barred assault.

We’ve heard all of the arguments about why the age of the manual transmission is coming to a close – more efficient automatics, the rise of the double-clutch cog box, etc – but we still love rowing our own gears. Car and Driver has brought up an interesting point by saying that manuals can actually help cut down on distracted driving. How? It’s bound to be quite a bit more difficult to text while driving something with a third pedal.

Whether that’s true or not, we’ll let you decide, but if you want to get in on the campaign to save the manual transmissions from the icy claw of extinction, you can hop over to Car and Driver to see what you can do. You may just get your very own sticker to announce your pride. Hit the jump to watch the PSA. Hat tip to Rokas!

[Source: Car and Driver]

Continue reading Car and Driver launches ‘Save the Manuals!’ campaign [w/video]

Car and Driver launches ‘Save the Manuals!’ campaign [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MTE rolls out 785-hp Volkswagen Golf R32 [w/video]

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen

MTE Volkswagen Golf R32 BiTurbo – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Volkswagen scientists at MTE recently decided that their Golf R32 BiTurbo just wasn’t quite up to snuff. While the company had already managed to drag staggering amounts of power out of the little German hatch, the project simply lacked that certain muchness that a true tuner purebred needs in order to stand out of the crowd. The solution? Yank 785 horsepower and 586 lb-ft of torque from the car – a 55 horse jump over the previous iteration of the project.

Yeah, we think that’ll do just fine.

How’d they do it? For starters, there’s a pair of mammoth Garrett G28/71 turbos under the hood pushing on forged internals. The team also reworked the cylinder heads, bolted on a water/methanol-injection intake manifold and unique cast-iron exhaust manifold. The whole kit breathes through an up-sized stainless steel exhaust system, and MTE says that it has limited the wicked little Golf at 193 mph. In order to cope with that kind of speed, the VW wears Brembo six-piston calipers and KW Variant 3 coilovers along with semi-slick tires. Hit the jump for a look at the car back when it was in its lowly 730-horsepower guise.

Gallery: MTE Volkswagen Golf R32 BiTurbo

[Source: MTE via Inside Line]

Continue reading MTE rolls out 785-hp Volkswagen Golf R32 [w/video]

MTE rolls out 785-hp Volkswagen Golf R32 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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