10th Anniversary Victory Vision sells out in 7 minutes
Click above for high-res gallery of 10th Anniversary Victory VisionThe classic touring bike style has seen only minor revisions since the 1940s or so, but that doesn't mean something spicy and different can't shake up the segment from time to time, as proven by the Victory Vision. Introduced last year, the Vision sports futuristic styling that's also very effective at keeping the wind and elements at bay -- exactly what you want from a long-legged steed. That the Vision is equipped with an extremely powerful 106-cubic-inch (over 1,700cc) air-cooled engine with 92 horsepower and 109 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed transmission is icing on the cake. To celebrate its 10th Anniversary, America's other motorcycle manufacturer threw everything but the kitchen sink at the Vision and ended up with a $29,000 two-wheeler bedecked in metallic red, black and chrome. Apparently, riders liked the result enough to snatch up all 100 Anniversary editions in the first seven minutes it was made available for purchase online. With that kind of response, maybe they should make a big deal about the 11th anniversary next year...Gallery: 10th Anniversary Victory Vision[Source: Victory Motorcycles]Press Release:The Limited Edition 10th Anniversary Victory Vision Sells Out In 7 Minutes!How special is the 2009 10th Anniversary Victory Vision® Tour? So special that all 100 of these extremely limited-edition models sold out in just 7 minutes online! We have notified the 100 very excited riders who will receive these special models and they'll take delivery of their bikes in the near future. To see its features, photos, videos and to download wallpapers click here.Even though the 10th Anniversary Victory Vision® is sold out, Victory has plenty of other great models that await you. Check out the complete line of eighteen 2009 models that were just introduced in July, including the all-new Kingpin Low, as well as the more powerful Hammer®, Hammer® S and Vegas Jackpot® - with the new Freedom® 106/6 V-Twin that produces 97 hp and 113 ft/lb of torque!
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GT Academy competition to put GT5 Prologue player in real race
This is either the stupidest idea ever or the most brilliant co-promotion for two brands in the history of mankind. Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, the distributor of Gran Turismo 5 Prologue across the pond, and Nissan are joining forces to host a competition that could place a really good gamer behind the seat of a real Nissan 350Z at a very real 24-hour endurance race in Dubai. The competition is called GT Academy, and the first round will be an online GT5 Prologue tournament hosted on the PLAYSTATION Network (for Europeans only, we presume). Based on the picture provided, it appears that entrants will be racing a Nissan GT-R in a special livery when the competition begins later this month. The rest of the competition will span some eight months, at the end of which the winner will receive a four-month training program to earn actual racing licenses. With his or her newfound knowledge of real physics and how actual damage occurs, the winner will then be given a stint behind the wheel of a Nissan 350Z in the 24-hour endurance race in Dubai. Based on the press release after the jump, we're a little unclear exactly how GT Academy will whittle down all of these entrants over eight months or how much driving the winner will actually be doing in Dubai. Having raced GT5 Prologue online using the PLAYSTATION Network, we can't imagine qualifying is going to be a pretty sight. There are always plenty of jerks willing to brake late in a corner and buddy bump you into the wall regardless of the game's imposed penalties, especially if they know that seat time in a real 350Z is beyond their own reach. [Source: Nissan, SCEE]PRESS RELEASEPLAYSTATION & NISSAN UNVEIL GT ACADEMYOpportunity to drive for the Nissan team at the 24H Dubai endurance race – courtesy of PlayStation, Nissan and Gran Turismo 5 Prologue ™London, 6 May 2008: Industry leaders PlayStation and Nissan have come together to create the ultimate competitive driving test - GT Academy. The eight-month, pan-European competition sees virtual and real-life racing merge to make the wildest dreams of two aspiring race drivers come true. The prize: a four-month training programme to earn their racing licences, followed by a real-life race driving a Nissan 350Z as part of the Nissan team at the 24H endurance race in Dubai in January 2009.To earn a place in GT Academy, candidates will face a series of elimination-based competitions on and off the racetrack - starting at a national level with an online GT5 Prologue tournament hosted on PLAYSTATION®Network.GT Academy builds on the long-standing partnership between PlayStation and Nissan that began with Nissan working with Gran Turismo developers Polyphony Digital. Nissan provided vehicles, racing drivers and feedback to help perfect the game's ultra-realistic driving simulation.Roles were reversed in 2007 when Nissan called upon Polyphony Digital to design the interface for the onboard computer for the GT-R, Nissan's new supercar. The 'multifunction meter' provides drivers with updates on the car's performance and systems – a collaboration recognised as a motoring industry first. In the latest game, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue on PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™), Nissan's GT-R joins a garage filled with 71 dream cars including seven other top Nissan sports cars.Speaking at PlayStation Day, David Reeves, President and CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe said:"Gran Turismo is one of the most successful global gaming franchises of the last decade and is renowned for its realism, quality of design and in-car physics technology. PlayStation is now part of the global motor sport community from its games to its Gran Turismo TV channel – and now the GT Academy. The academy brings the real and virtual worlds of racing together and is the ultimate test to see if virtual drivers have what it takes to race in a competitive environment where there isn't the option to play again."Simon Sproule, Corporate Vice President, Global Communications, Nissan Motor Ltd, added:"We're delighted to build on the close relationship between Nissan and Sony PlayStation. This represents the competition prize of a lifetime for racing enthusiasts; a prize that brings the worlds of gaming and racing even closer together. We look forward to welcoming our new team drivers for the race in Dubai."GT Academy goes live at the end of May. Entrants must register, via their PS3s, on the PLAYSTATION®Network (PSN) to compete in the special online tournament. Gran Turismo 5 Prologue on PS3 has sold over one million units since its launch, with the Gran Turismo franchise now having sold more than 50 million units worldwide.
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Sony picks GT Academy winners to race in Dubai 24 Hours
First art imitates life and now video games do the same, with Sony Computer Entertainment Europe and Nissan having joined forces to create the GT Academy. Over the course of eight months, the academy culled a group of wannabe racers from a field of entrants who posted the best lap times in GT5 Prologue. Then, for five days at Silverstone, the finalists competed in the game and on the actual track, watched by ex-F1 racer Johnny Herbert and a panel of five judges. The two winners were just announced, and Top Gun status went to Lars Schlomer and Luis Ordonez. Schlomer is a taxi driver in Bonn, Germany; Ordonez is an MBA student from Spain. Now that they've won, they'll be thrown into boot camp for four months to learn to how to race for real silver: in four months, they'll have to earn their racing licenses and get ready to drive a factory-backed Nissan 350Z in the 24 Hours of Dubai this coming January.The rest of us will have to be content with GT5 Prologue for now...[Source: Sony]
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VIDEO: Autoblog playing with KITT, having too much fun
You may have seen our In the Autoblog Garage report from earlier today about a very unique car: the KITT Shelby GT500 KR. When someone offers you the keys to what is essentially a supercharged V8-powered prop, you make the most of your time together. The above video shot and produced by Chris Shunk shows you exactly how we spent our all-too-short time with KITT, which is to say, we peeled out a lot and pretended to be a young loner on a crusade to champion the cause of the innocent, the helpless, and the powerless.Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: KITT Shelby GT500 KR
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Knight Rider: The Liveblog
Click image for high-res galleryWell, as Dan Roth just put it in an IM that popped onto my screen, someone has to take one for the team, and that someone, my friends, is me. I'll be your host this evening as I provide live-ish commentary during the airing of the new Knight Rider telemovie. Note that I'm watching in the Eastern time zone, so you West Coast types, be advised: this contains spoilers. They'll all be after the jump, though, so you should be safe until you click through. To punish prepare myself for this epic (in NBC's opinion, anyway) television event, I bought Hoff-infused Knight Rider Season 1 on DVD. I watched the pilot episode for the first time in eons and came to the conclusion that what I thought was cool at age 10 was not necessarily...you know...good. As for this new edition, well, let's just say there's cause for concern.And with that, let's continue after the jump.February 17, 2008Knight Rider on NBCAll times are Eastern8:56: Watching the end of American Gladiators, which just ran a long KR promo. My friend Vin, seated to my left, comes out with, "There's no way this can be good." We agree that the car is cool, at least. Stand by for the real deal.9:00: Here we go.9:01: Note to white-haired dude, random guys showing up at night with a truck should never be invited in. 9:02: Death toll: 1 Roomba9:03: I wish someone would shoot the nerdy bad guy already.9:04: Old KITT! I feel no nostalgia.9:05: New KITT says," Adios MFers!" Well, not really, but he's out. 9:06: New KITT goes like a land speed record car, apparently. Metallized theme not so good.9:08: Mike has two chicks in bed. My friend just screamed, "RIDICULOUS!" at the TV. Oh, and Deanna Russo's character has glasses, therefore, she is a brilliant scientist.9:10: KITT sounds like Val Kilmer. Oh, wait...9:11: KITT, inaddition to being fast and Mustangy, is also omniscient, telling Sarah that this security guard could be "one of them."Commercial break #1: This is not very good so far. Shocker, Mustang commercial leads the break.So, we have Mike Traceur in a threesome, a lesbian FBI agent, and wooden acting. Is this Knight Rider or a 70s porno movie?9:16: We're back, unfortunately.9:18: Can someone tell me why KITT runs from the bad guys instead of running them over? He is indestructable.9:21: Apparently, the bad guys have the world's fastest Ford Edge, as they're all over KITT's ass.9:22: KITT safely navigates through Ford and Ford-owned vehicle traffic as horrible dialogue takes place in his cockpit. It occurs to me that if the show ended right now, I would be completely okay with it. Commercial break #2: Take a breather everyone. Or maybe change the channel.9:27: Deanna Russo will not be winning an Emmy, and KITT just turned into a regular Mustang GT. 9:30: Man, everyone in the FBI looks like an actor. When did the bad guys get themselves a Huey? Bad guys dumb. They are fooled by magic transforming KITT.9:31: We're driving to see Mike Traceur. KITT transforms into winged battle mode so he can go 200 mph and find Mike, who is 600 miles away. Contrary to popular belief, cheeseball ground effects DO make you faster.Commercial break #3: Oh look, a Focus commercial. It's still ugly. 9:36: KITT's voice thingy turns blue, and he gets all Dr. Phil w/ Sarah. Complete with soft music. Who greenlighted this?9:37: KITT says, "That does...suck." Yes KITT, much like this program. 9:39: KITT arrives in Vegas. Finds Mike Traceur in a casino, because there is no system he can't tap into. So much for civil liberties!9:41: Mike Traceur plays poker with Phil "The Unabomber" Laak. Goes all in. Beats him. What a bunch of crap. Sarah arrives, says something that I think is code for, "Even though I'm hot, I have no boyfriend, which will make it easier for us to hook up in hour 2."Commercial Break #4: Bionic Woman is Goodfellas compared to this. 9:46: I'm surprised NBC hasn't worked in a Las Vegas (the Tom Selleck show) tie-in for this scene.9:47: Bad guy fights Mike Traceur. Mike wins, continues angry banter with KITT. You can cut the sexual tension between those two with a knife, man...9:50: I spoke too soon. It IS the Montecito from Las Vegas!Commercial break #5: SYNC commercial with Traceur driving a Focus. KITT calls on the Bluetooth. Best line: "I've got a date tonight, KITT. I didn't want you tagging along." Yeah dude, because showing up in a Focus is way cooler than rolling up in a KR. There's still an hour of this to go?9:55: Flashback. We see Graiman and his doppelganger plan his escape from the opening attack.9:57: Blackriver = Blackwater. There's NBC trying to make KR all current events topical. Leave that stuff to Russert. This is about magic talking cars.9:58: Sarah, "I'm not running from this." Yes, but viewers are running for their remotes. I'm glad I'm getting paid for this. 9:59: The Sheriff's dirty. Shocker. Not.10:00: Too much people talking. My friend notes that this Mike guy kinda looks like Tom Brady. Brady is probably a better actor. 10:02: The evil congressman from X-Men, I mean Graiman, does a B&E. Goes to sit a spell, and someone racks a shotgun and puts it to his head. Rough night for this dude. And the viewers.Commercial break #6: Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.10:07: False alarm! He knows the gun-toter. For the record, the old Knight Rider OWNS this crap, and that's saying a lot. 10:08: Mike reconciling with Sarah. He totally wishes he had another chick with them...10:10: VINTAGE RANCHERO! Jalopnik will be pleased. 10:11: Sarah, in one sentence, hammers the hydrogen fuel argument. So, The KITT GT500KR goes 200 mph AND gets 167 mpg? AWESOME. Ford Australia must've built him.10:13: The bad guys have an endless supply of different black helicopters. Oh, and KITT asked Mike if he was gay. Again with the man-car sexual tension.Commercial break #7: Another KITT/Mike/Focus SYNC commercial. "It's a nice car." Someone kill me. 10:18: We're back. I'm waiting for Graiman to turn into Mystique (if you didn't see X-Men, you won't get that. Sorry.). Then Mike can have the 3-way he so obviously yearns for. 10:24: Can someone explain to me how these tools on the Bad Guy team are tracking KITT? Fake suspense as Mike and a bad guy both go to open doors in a motel. NBC goes to commercial to up the drama. Which it would have done if there was any drama to begin with. Commercial break #8: Can we get to the Hoff's cameo already?10:25: Mike's mom almost shot him. Almost. Dammit!10:28: Let me fill you in on the history of KITT while we evade the gun-wielding baddies, Mike. Mike learns that Knight Rider is his dad. Thank God, its the FBI. Maybe KITT will ask her if she's gay. 10:30: Get in the car, people. KITT is getting hacked. So much for his awesomeness. 10:31: Damn. Mike's mom got popped. She was the toughest of this group...and...she dies. So much for this being a death-free A-Team affair. 10:33: Always talking before an execution. Is it curtains for Mike? No. There's a half-hour left.Commercial break #8: KITT SYNC commercial...and it's actually amusing. KITT asks blond babe, "Would you like to ride in me? I have keyless entry."10:37: Sydney Portier's daughter won't win an Emmy either. Big surprise, they get away. Mike doesn't kill his mother's killers. Ridiculous. 10:38: KITT blower whine = cool. Chasing the evil GMC Denali.10:39: No computer, no bulletproof KITT. Mind that automatic fire there, Mike. 10:41: Computer on. Attack mode KITT is Denali-proof. Denali looks like the smart that 5th Gear crashed. Look, Graiman wore his seat belt. He's OK.10:45: Funeral time. Tie up loose ends. Set up the weekly series that should not, under any circumstances, happen.10:46: Recovered hard drives. Blah blah blah. Here comes the "We want you to drive" line that was shown in all the commercials. 10:47: "The world is insane." No, me sitting through 2 hours of this is insane. 10:49: At the funeral. This is taking forever...especially for a character who was on screen for like 10 minutes. We're supposed to care?10:48: THE HOFF. Get ready for the charisma. We go to break. Final commercial break: Last SYNC commercial. The Knight Rider theme music is still cool, at least.10:53: The Hoff approaches. Reveals his identity to Mike. "I'm your father." Touchy-feely crap. Tells Mike, "she loved you." Thank you, Captain Obvious. Hoff: "One man can make a difference."10:55: "Am I gonna see you again?" Hoff: "I hope so." Unsaid: "I could use the work. Pray for a weekly gig, kid."10:57: Mike gets his new mission. Coming next Fall on NBC. FBI agents missing in Prague. My friend: "KITT can drive to Prague?"10:58: Theme music. More browbeating hints that a series is coming. Battle Mode KITT exits taxiing C-130 (or other such transport plane).Epilogue: Gratuitous Hoff/America's Got Talent promo. The Hoff is unstoppable. I'm out. Thanks for suffering with me reading!P.S.The answers to the NBC Sweepstakes questions are: Purple Gasoline Michael Knight Knight Industries Three Thousand
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Knight Rider premiering online Sept. 17th, a week before broadcast
Hey kids, don't forget: the new, not-at-all-improved Knight Rider becomes a weekly series on Wednesday, September 24th. As was the case during the pilot that aired back in February, I'll be on my couch with my laptop, liveblogging the proceedings and adding much-needed "perspective" each week, right until the show's cancellation. Maybe you couldn't care less about the liveblog, though. Or maybe you're just a glutton for punishment. If that's the case, you're in luck -- the Peacock is posting the season premiere online at NBC.com and Hulu.com on September 17, a week before the network broadcast. I'm gonna pass on the sneak peek, because I don't want want to taint my initial reaction to KITT's new Attack Mode (above). That, I'm saving for you guys. Mark your calendars. In the meantime, I'll watch this again instead. Gallery: The new KITT - OFFICIAL PHOTOS[Source: Inside Line]
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Honda announces new CBR600RR and CBR1000RR Fireblade for U.K.
Click above for more shots of the 2009 Honda CBR600RRWhen it was introduced in 2008, the brand-new Honda CBR1000RR, known as Fireblade across the pond, won accolades from the the press and regular riders alike. Considering its market domination over the last year, we wouldn't be surprised if Honda simply left things pretty much alone for '09. There is one new feature, though, and it's a biggie: optional ABS brakes. This will be the first application of anti-lock brakes in a machine of this caliber, and early reports indicate that people are seeing improved lap times as a result. In addition to the brakes, expect to see some color changes and a Repsol race edition.Moving on to Honda's smaller-bore machine, the CBR600RR will also get optional C-ABS along with engine changes designed to improve torque right in the middle of the power band, between 8,000 and 12,000 RPM. Along with these changes comes revised styling with flashy colors pulled straight from the mid-'90s. Apparently, neon green and electric blue are back. Why didn't somebody tell us sooner? Update: Title fixed. Thanks!Gallery: 2009 Honda CBR1000RR FirebladeGallery: 2009 Honda CBR600RR[Source: Honda]Press Release:First of Honda's 2009 Motorcycle Models AnnouncedHonda today announces the first of its exciting motorcycle model line-up for the 2009 model year.New and updated models include the class-winning and still breathtaking CBR1000RR Fireblade and CBR600RR Supersport machines, both of which will be available with Honda's all-new electronically-controlled Combined ABS as an option.Meanwhile, in the Off-Road category, the new 2009 CRF450R raises the bar further with an all-new lightweight fuel-injection and ignition system, while the 250cc version, the CRF250R, offers even greater technical refinements and style.CBR1000RR FirebladeThe 2008 CBR1000RR Fireblade has astonished the media and public alike since its unveiling and launch last year. During 2008 it has won national and international races and magazine awards for its unique mix of power, performance, poise and controllability – qualities the Fireblade has been famous for since it was first launched back in 1992.For 2009, Honda's engineers were charged with extending the Fireblade's capabilities even further by adding increased safety to an already impressive level of dynamic ability and control – but without losing the Fireblade's razor-sharp edge. Honda has achieved this goal thanks to the addition of its all-new electronically-controlled 'Combined ABS' on the CBR1000R Fireblade C-ABS version. Developing a Combined ABS system capable of matching the performance demands of a bike such as the Fireblade was always going to pose a challenge, but it has been met and exceeded with no loss to the Fireblade's ultimate sporting philosophy and, with a minimal weight penalty.This marks the first time a Supersport machine has been capable of delivering the highest levels of speed and performance, while also benefiting from the confidence and peace of mind provided by Combined ABS. Tadao Baba – the designer of the original Fireblade used to strive for 'Total Control' for the CBR-RR. This now comes with the enhanced safety feature of Combined ABS, adding up to a new era in sportsbiking.The compact engine now sports an intense matt black colour, enhanced with a new shape-hugging black engine cover, and features new black brake callipers (standard version only). The Combined ABS version's engine is also black, with new Sherry Topaz Brown Metallic brake callipers.The C-ABS model also integrates additional bodywork features to neatly cover the ABS system components. The independent front power unit near the engine is housed by a sleek continuation of the front fairing. Similarly at the rear, an attractive, black underseat cowl covers the ECU unit.The CBR1000RR Fireblade for 2009 comes in the stunning Pearl Sunbeam White HRC Tri-colour, Repsol Race Replica livery, Achilles Black Metallic and Pearl Siren Blue.CBR600RRNow in its fourth generation, the 2009 machine builds on the heritage of blistering pace and supreme control set in 2003 by the first CBR600RR. When the all-new CBR600RR was launched in 2007, Honda once again was at the forefront of the 600cc Supersport class – the most intensely fought in motorcycling – with a machine which was the most advanced in the category.For 2009, the goal for Honda's development team has once again been to enhance a machine capable of fast, intense track riding while also delivering a controllable, easy-going road-riding experience. Adding to this experience is the inclusion of Honda's Combined ABS on the CBR600RR C-ABS version. The highlights of the technical enhancements to the 2009 CBR600RR include: * Changes to piston, cylinder head and exhaust which lead to improved torque from 8,000-12,000rpm for increased engine flexibility and driveability * Fairing improvements to enhance stability and reduce wind noise * Electronically controlled Combined ABS for better braking performance along with increased safety and all-round rider confidence (optional) * 184kg kerb weight to keep the machine the lightest in its classTo enhance the new performance and mild aesthetic update, a new colour range has been introduced to make the most of these changes, to include a limited-edition Pearl Sunbeam White design with electric blue fairing and front and rear cowling graphics, a Pearl Sunbeam White design with white/red/blue Tricolour, as well as Graphite Black with Bright Lime Green Metallic and Graphite Black with Italian Red.CRF450RThe amazing CRF450R has impressed in Supercross, Motocross, desert racing, enduro, flat-track and Supermoto – now the updated 2009 model is ready to raise the bar further still. The new-for-2009 CRF450R is slimmer, lighter and more powerful than its predecessor and includes an all-new and lightweight fuel-injection and ignition system, which features a revolutionary fuel-injection indicator with engine stop switch to show the pre-race condition of the fuel-injection system – a first for Honda.The fuel-injection system also delivers the same engine characteristics at all altitudes thanks to new settings, as well as improved fuel consumption, which allows the fuel tank size to decrease by 1.5 litres. Chassis changes include a fifth generation cast aluminium, rather than two-part forged frame, which gives less weight and increased stiffness, a longer swingarm and wider rear tyre, HRC settings for the suspension, along with a new steering damper – which has been re-valved for more linear damping – and changes to the overall dimensions of the CRF, which allow for better traction out of the corners, improved acceleration and increased ground clearance.In addition to the performance, there are new plastic body parts, which feature new Honda Racing inspired colours and graphics and thanks to their slim, aggressive styling, this allow the rider to move easily around the bike. Overall the new machine is around 1.8kg lighter than the 2008 machine and has proved its impressive speed and agility in recent track tests. The colour sports Honda's Extreme Red with white number-boards.CRF250RHonda's CRF250R is further refined for 2009, with improvements coming directly from its bigger brother - the 450R. To allow its commanding presence to continue in both the Motocross and Supercross arenas, the CRF250R welcomes an even smoother power delivery from its updated and advanced 249cc Unicam engine. The whole engine itself is lighter and more compact and has a newly designed cylinder head for improved power delivery – especially in the low to mid power range.Gearbox modifications will provide smoother changes with less clutch action needed, while suspension and steering damper settings have been altered as well. Updates to the brake disc covers and the design of the front and rear discs reduce weight further, all contributing to the '09 model being 100g lighter than its predecessor.The styling is edgy with more compact lines to reduce weight wherever possible along with 'works' style handlebars with longer grips for slip-free operation. To complement the increased performance and styling, in comes a new limited-edition black version with black seat, rims, engine cover and front mudguard. The black shroud also features a unique flame graphic.Prices and UK availability dates are yet to be finalised for each of the 2009 models, but these four new models will be on display on the Honda stand (1D20 – Hall 1) at the International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at the NEC in Birmingham, from 28 November – 7 December.For further information about Honda's great range of scooters and motorcycles call 0845 200 800, visit www.honda.co.uk, or visit your local dealer. Honda motorcycle dealers can be located using the 'Dealer Search' facility within the motorcycles area of www.honda.co.uk, where you can also find all the latest news and information, offers, genuine parts and accessories and forthcoming events.
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Rumormill: VW Microbus back on the table?
Click above for a hi-res gallery of the '01 VW Microbus conceptThe 2001 VW Microbus concept was really cool; so much so that it looked like it was headed for 2005 production. Then the project started getting expensive at the same time the U.S. dollar began to hit the skids. So, then-boss Bernd Pischetsrieder swung the axe, and it was curtains for the retro breadbox. Fast-forward to the present. Instead of a spiffy new Microbus, we now have the Routan, which is fake German for "Dodge Caravan." Not very exciting, to say the least. A revival of Flower Power's official vehicle seemed hopeless -- until now. The Sydney Morning Herald reports that VW's entertaining the possibility of a 21st-century Microbus built on the same platform as the new sedan that'll pe produced at VW's Chattanooga, TN facility. An unnamed "senior Volkswagen official" told the paper that European production's basically a non-starter, and Volkswagen Group of America's Jill Bratina played it coy, saying only that a second vehicle line out of Chattanooga is "conceivable in the foreseeable future." A locally-built, car-based Microbus is an idea that certainly piques our interest. How about yours?(Oh, and by the way, should you ever decide to move to Brazil, you can still kick it old-school down there in the meantime.) Gallery: 2001 VW Microbus Concept[Source: Sydney Morning Herald via Squob.com]
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Free gas promotion for video game goes awry in UK
Automakers and car dealerships have used the old "Free Gas" promotion to good effect, so it's not surprising that companies outside the industry might try it, too. Electronic Arts gave it a go recently to promote its new Mercenaries 2 video game in the UK by taking over a gas station in North London and giving away £20,000 ($35,000) worth of free gas. The free fuel was pumped by actors wearing military garb (with bandoliers!) in £40 increments to any who drove up. While those receiving the priceless petrol were thrilled, area residents and motorists just trying to drive by called the PR stunt "irresponsible and dangerous". Locals had their driveways blocked for hours and were forced to listen to a symphony of horns from exasperated drivers trying to negotiate the giant queue of cars. Beginning at 6:30 in the morning, the promo was supposed to go on until all £20,000 worth of gas had been pumped, but authorities shut it down just four hours later. While EA may have peeved the locals, news of its blunder has spread across the web like wildfire and given Mercs 2 more free exposure than it would've gotten otherwise.[Source: BBC via Joystiq]
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Pics Aplenty: the production Toyota iQ
Click above for more high-res shots of the European Toyota iQBy naming its impending city car the iQ, Toyota makes no bones about who it's after. And with an extra set of seats fitted into its diminutive little runabout, the Japanese auto giant looks to one-up the smart fortwo with a vehicle that measures about the same size. Ahead of its European release, Toyota decided to release a few new shots of the production iQ, and we've gone ahead and assembled them into a high-res gallery for your viewing pleasure. After looking things over again, we like what we see. The look is obviously Toyota and we think that the flowing but angular lines translate a bit better in this small package than in some of the marque's larger vehicles. There are four seats inside, though Toyota considers the iQ a 3+1 seater, as the fourth seat is suitable only for wee children. Production will begin shortly and vehicles will begin showing up in Europe at the start of the new year.Gallery: Production Toyota iQ[Source: Toyota]
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First Hyundai Genesis Coupe commercial hits Korea, pricing revealed
Click above to watch the videoToday is the day reservations become available for the Hyundai Genesis Coupe in Korea. To celebrate, Hyundai has released a new commercial which you can watch after the break. Those placing orders now should begin taking possession of their new two-door, rear-wheel drive coupe on September 26. Pricing for the new hotness from Hyundai is very reasonable for the Korean market with a base price of 25,360,000 WON (about U.S. $23,000). Stepping up to the "Stylish Pack" (seriously?) nets you 19-inch rims, a limited slip diff and optional Brembo's for 26,920,000 WON (U.S. $24,500). Well worth it in our estimation. A loaded 3.8-liter V6 Genesis Coupe will go for 33,150,000 WON (U.S. $30,100), which buys you over 300-horsepower and a full leather interior.Hit the jump for a full rundown of pricing and options for the Coupe in Korea. According to our tipster, the Genesis sedan with the 3.8-liter V6 is selling for about $70K in its home market. This being the case, it's pretty hard to draw any conclusions as to what this means for U.S. Genesis Coupe pricing when it goes on sale sometime in 2009. We can hardly wait. Thanks for the tip, Sam![Source: blog.daum.net]Video: Genesis Coupe 2.0 GL- 210HP Theta 2.0 TCI RS engine, dual airbags, 6-speed MT, 18 alloys, ABS, VDC, starter button, seat warmers, Bluetooth handsfree systemOptions: 5-speed AT, sunroof, reverse parking aid (?) (probably backup sonar), side and curtain airbagsPRICE - 25,360,000 WON (~US$23,000)Genesis Coupe 2.0 Stylish Pack- GL base options, 19 inch alloys, LSD, HID headlights, leather seats, full-auto climate control, reverse parking aidOptions: 5-speed AT, sunroof, side and curtain airbags, Brembo brake systemPRICE - 26,920,000 WON (~US$24,500)Genesis Coupe 2.0 GLS- Stylish Pack base options, Brembo brake system, active headrests, 6-CD CD changer, aluminum pedals, JBL sound system, Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tiresOptions: 5-speed AT, sunroof, side and curtain airbagsPRICE - 30,690,000 WON (~US$27,900)Genesis Coupe 3.8 GLS- 2.0 GLS base options, 303 HP Lambda 3.8 RS engine, Brembo brake system, LSD, 19 alloys, reverse parking aid, leather seatsOptions: ZF 6-speed AT, sunroof, side and curtain airbagsPRICE - 33,150,000 WON (~US$30,100)
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Nissan Nuvu concept, Pixo city car, revised Note headed to Paris
Click above for high-res gallery of Nissan's Paris Motor Show lineupNissan is bringing a trio of vehicles to the city of lights for the 2009 Paris Motor Show: a new concept called the Nuvu, an all-new production car car called the Pixo and a revised Note. We don't have an image of the Nuvu yet, but Nissan says it's a compact all-electric city car with 2+1 seating. It takes its green theme seriously with solar panels shaped like tree leaves on the roof that channel the sun's power through a "tree trunk" conduit in the center of the vehicle. Next up is the Pixo, a new production car for the city with four-doors and a rear hatch that's powered by an eency-weency 1.0L three-cylinder engine. Built in collaboration with Suzuki, the new A-class car will obviously be geared towards fuel economy and low emissions when it goes on sale in Europe in the spring of 2009.Finally, Nissan will have a revised version of its Note compact car that features a new, sleeker front end. New wheels, colors, a revised suspension and an available 1.5L dCi engine round out the changes. The Note also gets Nissan's new in-car nav/infotainment system called Nissan Connect. It comes with everything the market demands including a touch-screen navigation system, connectivity for digital audio players and Bluetooth connectivity.Gallery: Nissan at the 2009 Paris Motor Show[Source: Nissan]PRESS RELEASENISSAN AT THE 2008 PARIS INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOWA world premiere of a futuristic concept car and of an all-new production car, as well as a heavily revised version of an existing model will be the stars of Nissan's 2008 Paris Motor Show.All the stars of the show share a philosophy of tackling the reality of mobility in and around the city, today, tomorrow and in the more distant future.NuvuNissan's vision for the future of urban transportation is encapsulated in Nuvu, literally a 'new view' of the type of car we will be driving in the middle of the next decade. Compact – it's just 3 metres long – Nuvu is a concept vehicle with unique 2+1 seating. It is aimed at urban dwellers who don't want to compromise on their personal freedom or their comfort, yet who appreciate that there is a need for a dramatic change in the way we move around our cities.Nuvu is an electric vehicle, is agile, easy to drive and even easier to park. It represents Nissan's commitment to electric vehicle technology, considering that Nissan has already announced that it will present a production-ready EV at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, with sales due to start in Japan and North America in 2010. Whilst Nuvu is not that car, it does share some of the technology that will feature in the planned production vehicle.The vehicle shown at Paris Motor Show incorporates a witty representation of its green credentials: across its all-glass roof are a dozen or so small solar panels. Shaped like leaves on a branch, the power they generate is fed to the battery using a 'tree trunk' within the car as a conduit. Nuvu also uses natural, organic and recycled materials within the cabin.Nuvu is compact on the outside yet roomy on the inside. Built on a unique platform, it's just 3 metres long and sits on a wheelbase of 1980 mm but is 1700 mm tall and 1550 mm wide to create a large and airy cabin.These dimensions provide all the interior room needed for the vast majority of city journeys. Nuvu has two regular seats and a third occasional chair that can be folded down when required. But, unlike some two-seater city cars currently on the market, it is a thoroughly practical proposition with an integral luggage area providing sufficient space for a typical supermarket or shopping expedition."Nuvu is a concept car, for sure, but it is an entirely credible vehicle," says Francois Bancon, General Manager, Exploratory and Advanced Planning Department, Product Strategy and Product Planning Division, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd."It is light, clean and easy to drive. It is practical and a sensible size, yet it also embodies an element of fun: the future doesn't look so bad, after all."PixoContinuing the theme of compact urban motoring, with outstanding green credentials – but this time for the more immediate future, Pixo is an accessible city car which offers low emissions and consumption at an extremely accessible price.Pixo is a five-door, four-seater with a roomy interior and generous luggage space thanks to its efficient design and packaging. It has a lively highly efficient three cylinder 1.0-litre engine. Thanks to its brand new lightweight construction, with resulting benefits in performance, very low fuel consumption and emissions, Pixo will be among the best value eco-cars in the small city car category.Pixo is 3565 mm long, 1470 mm tall and 1600 mm wide. It has a wheelbase of 2360 mm.Built in collaboration with Suzuki Motor Corporation, at state-of-the art facilities in Delhi, India , Pixo is a brand new four-seater competing in the fast growing A-segment. Unlike some of its immediate rivals, however, Pixo is far from a micro car. It has five doors to ease ingress and egress to and from the rear seats but remains sufficiently compact to be agile to be ideal for city driving.Unusually in this class, Pixo is also available with a full four-speed automatic, reinforcing its suitability as a town car that's perfectly capable of longer journeys when needed.Sales start from late spring 2009.Revised NoteTo maintain its place as one of the most innovative, space-efficient and popular accessible compact cars on the market, a wide range of changes and improvements have been made to Note.The most obvious changes can be found to the exterior design, where the front end benefits from a completely new design of grille, bumper and headlight, lending the Note a more premium and sleek appearance.At the rear, the signature 'boomerang' lights are now darker, another discreet change which adds to the Note's premium feeling. Two new designs of alloy wheels – 15" and 16" – are available, while a new eye-catching pale green exterior colour called Cider has been developed.For the driver, a new combi-meter has been introduced, giving improved legibility and clarity and there is also a new central instrument panel, giving a cleaner appearance to the centre console.Under the skin, improvements have been made to the Note's suspension to improve ride comfort, while improving responsiveness, knowing that customers consider driving enjoyment a key priority.Following revisions to its engine and gearbox ratios, September will see the introduction of a 1.5-litre dCi powered Note which produces CO2 of just 119g/km. This follows the introduction of a diesel particulate filter on the 1.5-litre diesel engine earlier this year.Additionally, from October, customers will benefit from reduced CO2 emissions from the Note's 1.4-litre petrol engine. Thanks to revised gear ratios, it will produce 139g/km.Nissan ConnectThe updates to the Note also herald the introduction of Nissan Connect, Nissan's all-new combined satellite navigation, audio entertainment and communication system.It was conceived to offer the level of convenience and user-friendliness normally found on portable navigation devices with the added convenience of full integration into the centre console.With touch-screen technology, Nissan Connect combines a satellite navigation system (in nine languages), with an audio system capable of playing CDs (including MP3 and WMA CDs), as well as music via an auxilliary input, USB plug and Bluetooth streaming.The system also provides Bluetooth phone connectivity for hands-free communication.Nissan Connect will be available on Note from January 2009 and will be extended to other Nissan models during the course of 2009.As well as these 'stars of the show', Nissan will also have its Crossover icon, the all-new Murano, on display and its baby brother the Qashqai+2 - the 'family Crossover' - which takes the Qashqai concept and offers extra interior space and convenience for those buyers who are uninspired by the traditional MPV options.
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GM: Production Chevy Volt will be unveiled this month
Click above to view gallery of the production Chevy VoltExcitement around the production version of the Chevy Volt is reaching a fever pitch. Last week we brought you spy video and images of what appeared to be a production Volt on the set of Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen, and while General Motors has since revealed that what we saw was not necessarily the series hybrid's final form (and that it was actually a rebodied, gas-powered Malibu), it nonetheless proved that the Volt's design is nearing the end of its gestation. Today GM revealed to Automotive News that the production Volt will, in fact, be unveiled this month as part of the automaker's 100-year anniversary celebration. The main events for the celebration are Monday, Sept. 15th and Tuesday, Sept. 16th, so we expect the car to be unveiled on one of those two days. Ford Motor Company celebrated its centennial in 2003 and used the occasion to debut an equally exciting yet very different vehicle: the Ford GT. Fast forward five years and the hottest vehicle on everyone's mind is not a supercar, but a series hybrid. Times have certainly changed.Gallery: Production Chevy Volt[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]
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GM launches Facts and Fiction site to correct what's written on the bathroom wall
There's a lot of smack talk about Detroit automakers these days, and while some of it is spot on, other myths are no more credible than what's written in the men's john. General Motors is apparently tired of fielding questions surrounding this bathroom fodder and the embattled automaker is busting out its own Sharpie to dispel what it feels are untruths. GM has created a Web 1.0 site called GM Facts and Fiction on which are several statements often said in the media and around the water cooler that its feels are untrue. For example, much talk has come up concerning government bailouts, and GM Facts and Fiction counters that the federal money would not be a bailout but rather low-interest loans earmarked for developing fuel-efficient vehicles. Other topics of purported myth include fuel economy, product desirability and the Chevy Volt. Hit the link below to see GM's latest five fact-and-fiction posts, and let us know if you think the automaker is on the mark or just scribbling lavatory graffiti of its own.[Source: GM Facts and Fiction]
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Mobileyes live traffic for the iPhone
The coding wizards at 3rd Dimension, Inc. have released an iPhone app that provides a live video stream of traffic in selected areas, allowing commuters to view conditions before they make the trek to and from work.Currently, the application is only available for Detroit, Harford, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Knoxville, LA, New York and Washington D.C., but more cities will be added in the future.The application is a free download through the iTunes store (search for "traffic" and you'll see the available cities), and after checking out the New York feeds, we're astounded at how many traffic cameras are available in the Big Apple.[Source: 3rd Dimension via TCC]
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