Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[VIDEO: Mythbusters annihilate a car near the speed of sound]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-mythbusters-annihilate-a-car-near-the-speed-of-sound/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-mythbusters-annihilate-a-car-near-the-speed-of-sound/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-mythbusters-annihilate-a-car-near-the-speed-of-sound/#comments Filed under: ,

Mythbusters make us smile - click above to watch the video

This one is good. Previously Adam and Jamie smashed a car to smithereens between two semi trucks. Which was fun, but hardly fun enough. So, they get a two-stage rocket sled and ram it into some poor, defenseless Ford Aspire -- at 650 mph! As gets pointed out in the video, the word "awesome" is thrown around all too easily these days. That said, this is AWESOME! Maybe double awesome. Make the jump to watch the video while giggling like a ten-year-old.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mythbusters annihilate a car near the speed of sound

VIDEO: Mythbusters annihilate a car near the speed of sound originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> MythbustersRocketRocket SledRocketSled Sun, 06 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: That's a Wrap! Ferrari F430 Spider gets the vinyl treatment]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-thats-a-wrap-ferrari-f430-spider-gets-the-vinyl-treatme/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-thats-a-wrap-ferrari-f430-spider-gets-the-vinyl-treatme/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-thats-a-wrap-ferrari-f430-spider-gets-the-vinyl-treatme/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


Ferrari F430 Spider goes under the knife - Click above to watch the video

It can't really be that simple, can it? Well, it seldom is. But experts in any given field tend to have a knack for making complex procedures look deceptively simple. Take this video, for example, from Creative FX. The British firm specializes in vinyl wraps, and they make it look all too easy.

Wraps are growing into a popular choice for exotic car owners looking to give their rides a new look. Rather than repainting the entire car, specialist shops like Creative FX apply what essentially amounts to giant decals. That's how most of the matte-finish cars we see - including this particular Ferrari F430 Spider - end up that way. You have to figure it'd be a very tricky operation. Follow the jump to watch the video and judge for yourself.

[Source: Creative FX]

Continue reading VIDEO: That's a Wrap! Ferrari F430 Spider gets the vinyl treatment

VIDEO: That's a Wrap! Ferrari F430 Spider gets the vinyl treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> creative fxCreativeFxf430 spiderF430Spiderferrariferrari f430ferrari f430 spiderFerrariF430FerrariF430Spidervinylvinyl wrapVinylWrap Sun, 06 Dec 2009 18:33:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Old Dirty Bastards - The glory of Group B]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-old-dirty-bastards-the-glory-of-group-b/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-old-dirty-bastards-the-glory-of-group-b/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-old-dirty-bastards-the-glory-of-group-b/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Group B Quattro
The gorgeous insanity of Group B - Click above to watch the video

You know, there's a reason people talk about Group B racing - and the drivers who participated in it - in practically hushed tones. After all, we're currently in an era where motorsports news is just as likely to be about ever-more-restrictive regulatory efforts or the deranged hooker fantasies of the F1 illuminati as it is about, you know, racing. But during Group B's brief, crazy tenure, it was the regulations that fostered the lunacy, giving us unforgettable, insanely-powered cars and legendary drivers.

Of course, immense power and infinitesimal margins for error meant that the dangers were high -- for the drivers, obviously, but also for the spectators, who were, in their own ways, as bonkers as the factory pilots they idolized and flocked to see, forming masses of humanity that routinely spilled onto the circuits as the hyper-powered rally cars flew by. Eventually, those dangers led to tragedy, which, in turn, led to the abrupt end of the Group B era. But it's not easily forgotten, and every so often, someone posts a reminder why.

Follow the jump for eleven minutes of heaven, edited together (miraculously) without a lick of crappy, distracting music. The only soundtrack you'll hear is the one coming from Group B cars engineered to explore the limits, piloted by drivers who routinely (and expertly) exceeded them. It is, in a word, beautiful. Thanks to Danijel for the tip.

[Source: YouTube via MyCarVid]

Continue reading VIDEO: Old Dirty Bastards - The glory of Group B

VIDEO: Old Dirty Bastards - The glory of Group B originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> group bGroupBnostalgiaracingrallyRally CarRallyCarrallyingvideo Sun, 06 Dec 2009 10:55:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: STR8 Weird: Euro cologne TV spot sounds like Mopar, looks like Chevy, but mostly stinks]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-str8-weird-european-cologne-commercial-sounds-like-mopar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-str8-weird-european-cologne-commercial-sounds-like-mopar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-str8-weird-european-cologne-commercial-sounds-like-mopar/#comments Filed under: , ,

STR8 Cologne TV commercial
STR8 Challenger cologne TV commercial -- Click above to watch the video

According to one of the YouTube commenters for the STR8 Challenger cologne commercial embedded after the jump, it was made for Polish television. Which , of course, makes perfect sense, since the whole thing's in English. Regardless, the ad features Captain Generic Macho driving a Chevy Camaro, which gradually transforms into a giant robot tsunami of cologne that deposits him into the arms of Random Desert Babe. Frankly, "STR8 Challenger" sounds a lot more more like a certain Mopar than some quasi pheromone for European dudes. Check out the video after the jump to see how you too can have it "STR8 My Way." Or, at least, smell like you do. Or something. Hat tip to our man in Poland, Rafal!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: STR8 Weird: Euro cologne TV spot sounds like Mopar, looks like Chevy, but mostly stinks

VIDEO: STR8 Weird: Euro cologne TV spot sounds like Mopar, looks like Chevy, but mostly stinks originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> advertisingcamarocolognecommercialpolandvideoyoutube Sat, 05 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-helicopter-chases-two-lamborghini-gallardos-around-los-an/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-helicopter-chases-two-lamborghini-gallardos-around-los-an/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-helicopter-chases-two-lamborghini-gallardos-around-los-an/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Gallardo fun and frolic, with unfortunate rock soundtrack
Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos - click above to watch the video

While not quite as in your groin face as Samuel L. Jackson's Snakes on a Plane, the following video is as honest in its title to content ratio. Yes, a camera crew in a helicopter follows two Lamborghini Gallardos (one hardtop and one Spyder) up and down Pacific Coast Highway and through some of the Southland's best canyon roads. Nearly perfect, right?

Well, there's an issue or two. First is the thumping, blasting "butt-rock" soundtrack. Second, that soundtrack is annoying and obscures the glorious fury of the Gallardo's 5.2-liter V10 -- a motor that can make a four-year-old to burst into tears when cranked from a cold start (true story -- we saw it happen in person). Truly, a beast of an engine.

Had it been our video then, we would've killed the royalty-free-Nickelback soundtrack and instead stuck mics on the Lambos as if they were pincushions. Then we'd have tailed the two blue bulls to Kanan Dume Road. Why Kanan? Tunnels -- three of them. Not to get all David E. Davis on you, but you really haven't lived until you've heard Lambo's V10 at 8,250 rpm in a confined space. Glorious. With that said, make the jump to watch the video.

Continue reading VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles

VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Kana Dume RoadKanaDumeRoadKananLamborghiniLamborghini Galladro SpyderLamborghini GallardoLamborghini Gallardo LP560-4LamborghiniGalladroSpyderLamborghiniGallardoLamborghiniGallardoLp560-4Los AngelesLosAngelesLP560-4MalibuV10 Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:20:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Chrysler ad gets political, advocates for release of Myanmar Nobel Peace Prize Laureate]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/video-chrysler-ad-gets-political-advocates-for-release-of-myan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/video-chrysler-ad-gets-political-advocates-for-release-of-myan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/video-chrysler-ad-gets-political-advocates-for-release-of-myan/#comments Filed under: , ,

Chrysler 300 in political spot - click above to watch the video

This is... different. To summarize, a new commercial by Chrysler is agitating for the release of Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's (a.k.a. Burma's) pro-democracy leader and lightning rod who has been under one form of house arrest or another for twenty years. The thirty-second spot was originally created to be part of sister-brand Lancia's sponsorship of the 10th World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates. Says Oliver Francis, the new President and CEO of Chrysler and Managing Director of Lancia:
"We produced the TV film in honor of all those who put their lives at stake in the hopes of making the world a better place. In particular, those men and women who are still prisoners, like Aung San Suu Kyi. For Chrysler, this is a chance to use our brand image to join with others in the fight for peace and to knock down the walls that divide us. We at Chrysler believe in doing the right thing and making a difference."
The spot opens with a Chrysler 300 driving next to the some still-standing sections of the Berlin Wall. It then passes by a mural of Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela. We then see three Nobel Laureates getting out of the back of 300s: Muhammed Yunus, founder of the micro-lending Grameen Bank in Bangladesh, Polish union leader and president Lech Walesa and former leader of the USSR Mikhail Gorbachev.

As to whether or not a car company should be advocating in favor of peace and democracy, all we'll say is we're glad Chrysler is not fighting against 'em. Be sure to check out the video and press release after the jump.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading VIDEO: Chrysler ad gets political, advocates for release of Myanmar Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

VIDEO: Chrysler ad gets political, advocates for release of Myanmar Nobel Peace Prize Laureate originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Chrysler 3002010 Chrysler 300C2010Chrysler3002010Chrysler300c300300CAung San Suu KyiAungSanSuuKyiChryslerChrysler 300chrysler adChrysler300ChryslerAdGrameen BankGrameenBankLanciaLech WalesaLechWalesaMikhail GorbechevMikhailGorbechevMuhammed YunusMuhammedYunusnobel laureatenobel prizeNobelLaureateNobelPrizeOliver FrancisOliverFrancis Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/video-2011-ford-mustang-with-305-hp-v6-gets-seen-and-heard-in-m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/video-2011-ford-mustang-with-305-hp-v6-gets-seen-and-heard-in-m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/video-2011-ford-mustang-with-305-hp-v6-gets-seen-and-heard-in-m/#comments Filed under: , ,


2011 Ford Mustang - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The 2011 Mustang is only one year removed from a major refresh, but that didn't stop Ford from adding a host of upgrades, especially to the V6 model, to better-compete against its new pony car competition. While we certainly don't discount the V6 Stang's new suspension and packaging updates, the big story resides under its bonnet. The new 3.7-liter V6 packs 305 horsepower mated to a six-speed auto tranny (a six-speed manual is also available, but you lose 1 mpg) giving the new Mustang a big advantage over its predecessor while reportedly delivering the 30 mpg efficiency the masses are looking for.

We got our hands on some b-roll video of the new Mustang V6, with both static and moving shots. If that's not a good enough reason to watch there is also some aural pleasure courtesy of the new 3.7-liter V6. Unfortunately, the engine sounds are only audible when the Stang is in park but it still sounds pretty meaty when inside the cockpit. Hit the jump to see and hear the 2011 Mustang V6 in action.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion

VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 ford mustang2011 ford mustang v62011 mustang2011FordMustang2011FordMustangV62011Mustang3.7l v63.7lV6305 hp305Hpfordford mustangford mustang v6FordMustangFordMustangV6mustangmustang v6mustang videoMustangV6MustangVideovideo Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Lexus LFA illicitly investigated by fanboy in secret warehouse]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/video-lexus-lfa-illicitly-investigated-by-fanboy-in-secret-ware/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/video-lexus-lfa-illicitly-investigated-by-fanboy-in-secret-ware/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/video-lexus-lfa-illicitly-investigated-by-fanboy-in-secret-ware/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Motor Mavens sneaks a look at Lexus LFA - Click above to watch video after the break

If Motor Mavens legitimately got a call from a well-placed friend and truly snuck in to fiddle with a $400,000 car that's ostensibly in trustworthy care, we apologize, but it smells really staged from here. It doesn't matter, though, the LFA looks fantastic in this video, and the LCD gauges are cool to watch in action. That's the real value of this video, watching the interior come alive like the bridge of some kind of spaceship.

Damon talked about the way the gauges animate to display different information, but watching the display slide around makes us want to be the guy sitting in the driver's seat, twiddling all the buttons with meaty, indiscriminate paws. The entirety of the car is as worthy of "dude, check this out" as you'd expect from a supercar-class vehicle. Check it out after the jump, and let us know if we're being too suspicious.

We're just having trouble with details like interested-looking parties reflected in the window of the opening shot, and the fact that it's supposed to be poor quality, but looks pretty decent and apparently, when you drop everything and run out of the house, you take the time to call a cameraman. Now, if you'll excuse us, we have to go line our winter hats with tinfoil. Thanks for the tip, Michael!


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Lexus LFA


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

Continue reading VIDEO: Lexus LFA illicitly investigated by fanboy in secret warehouse

VIDEO: Lexus LFA illicitly investigated by fanboy in secret warehouse originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> lexuslexus fanLexus LF-ALexusFanLexusLf-aLF-Alfalfa fanLfaFan Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009 LIVE VIDEO: Bob Lutz Keynote address]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-live-video-bob-lutz-keynote-address/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-live-video-bob-lutz-keynote-address/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-live-video-bob-lutz-keynote-address/#comments Filed under: ,

Click above to view the live video feed after the jump

With Fritz Henderson's resignation termination as General Motor's CEO, the General's generals had to pull a last-minute swap with today's keynote speaker at the LA Auto Show. None other than Maximum Bob Lutz will be manning the podium in a few minutes and in addition to live-blogging the proceedings (coming in 5...4...3...), we've got streaming video of the address after the jump.

Continue reading LA 2009 LIVE VIDEO: Bob Lutz Keynote address

LA 2009 LIVE VIDEO: Bob Lutz Keynote address originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bob lutzbob lutz video la auto showBobLutzBobLutzVideoLaAutoShowlala 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowvideo Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: The Mustang skates in latest episode of Unleashed]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/video-the-mustang-skates-in-latest-episode-of-unleashed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/video-the-mustang-skates-in-latest-episode-of-unleashed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/video-the-mustang-skates-in-latest-episode-of-unleashed/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Mustang Unleashed Session - Click above to watch the video after the break

Though we all owned skateboards in our younger years, we can admit that we were never really any good at riding them. That doesn't mean we didn't fantasize about all the great stunts we wished we could perform. And were there any among us who don't remember sitting in the back seat of a car watching the scenery go by at speed and thinking of all the sweet jumps and flips cars should be able to do?

Filmmaker Jeff Richter undoubtedly has such memories, and Ford was kind enough to let him unleash those inner fantasies with a brand-spanking-new 2010 Mustang. Also along for the ride are street skater Pat Duffy and X-Games gold medalist Jake Brown. A quick blip pops up at the start of the film letting the watcher know that some of the scenes are real and others are computer generated... we don't think you'll have too much trouble distinguishing one from the other. Hit the jump to watch the video.


Gallery: Mustang Unleashed Session


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Mustang skates in latest episode of Unleashed

VIDEO: The Mustang skates in latest episode of Unleashed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fordford mustangford mustang unleashedFordMustangFordMustangUnleashedJake BrownJakeBrownmustangmustang sessionmustang unleashedmustang unleashed sessionMustangSessionMustangUnleashedMustangUnleashedSessionpat duffyPatDuffy Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:59:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/video-bmw-m1-in-mule-style-camo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/video-bmw-m1-in-mule-style-camo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/video-bmw-m1-in-mule-style-camo/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Camouflaged BMW M1
BMW M1 in camouflage - Click above to watch the video

For the life of us, we can't figure this. BMWblog has posted a video of what surely looks like an O.G. BMW M1, dressed up in that ubiquitous swirlydelic camouflage du jour and parked on a Munich street. It's either a very clever gag being put on by someone, or something potentially awesome is afoot. Either way, we can dig it. See for yourselves after the jump. Thanks to Mike S. for the tip!

[Source: YouTube via BMWblog]

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo?

VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw m1BmwM1camouflagem1mulemunich Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:48:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: <i>Titan</i> trailer celebrates the glory that is the Nürburgring]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-titan-trailer-celebrates-the-glory-that-is-the-nur/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-titan-trailer-celebrates-the-glory-that-is-the-nur/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-titan-trailer-celebrates-the-glory-that-is-the-nur/#comments Filed under:

Titan movie teaser - Click above to watch video

As any parent knows, when a child finds a video he likes he can watch it a kabillion jillion times with undiminished joy. That's exactly the kid we turn into any time you cut up race footage and set it to classical music and exhaust notes. This time it's the preview of the movie Titan, by French director Stephane Benini, which strings together action from the 1000 KM of the Nürburgring and features modern and vintage racers and motorcycles.

The movie has its own Facebook page if you really want to declare your love, or you can do the secret admirer thing and just enjoy the 6-minute HD clip from YouTube after the jump. The sound of the GT2 Corvette and DB9R is nothing short of knee-trembling. Follow the jump for the clip, and try not to spill your pureed peas...

[Source: Clash Productions]

Continue reading VIDEO: Titan trailer celebrates the glory that is the Nürburgring

VIDEO: Titan trailer celebrates the glory that is the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> clash productionsClashProductionsmovieNurburgringtitanvideoyoutube Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:59:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Audi tracks down the last Horch... in Texas?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-audi-tracks-down-the-last-horch-in-texas/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-audi-tracks-down-the-last-horch-in-texas/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-audi-tracks-down-the-last-horch-in-texas/#comments Filed under: , , ,

The search for the last Horch -- Click above to watch video

You have August Horch to thank for Audi. A former engineer for Karl Benz, Horch started the second oldest company of the original four companies that merged to form Auto Union (the first was Wanderer). But it was Horch whose name, translated into Latin, became "Audi."

The last Horch was built in Ingolstadt in 1953, and Audi wanted to find it. They put their vintage car locator, Ralph Hornung, on the case and he ended up in a field in West Texas. Follow the jump to view a video explaining the search and how the once mighty V8 found its way to a lonely Lone Star pasture. And on a side note, Hornung has a most awesome job... Thanks for the tip, Alex!

[Source: Audi TV via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Audi tracks down the last Horch... in Texas?

VIDEO: Audi tracks down the last Horch... in Texas? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiAuto UnionAutoUnionchasing classic carsChasingClassicCarsclassic carclassic carsClassicCarClassicCarshorchIngolstadtRalph HornungRalphHornungtexasvideo Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:19:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Formula for Safety? Abu Dhabi Police unveil the F999]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-formula-for-safety-abu-dhabi-police-unveil-the-f999/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-formula-for-safety-abu-dhabi-police-unveil-the-f999/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-formula-for-safety-abu-dhabi-police-unveil-the-f999/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Abu Dhabi Police F999 - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Wednesday evening before the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last month, crowds gathered along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi's seafront boulevard. Two police cars sped down the road, swerved to a stop, an officer got out, pulled out his gun and began opening fire at a masked man pulling a checkered flag off a formula racing car. A driver climbed into the cockpit and drove off down the closed-off street to the applause of the gathered crowd as a marching band played on and a helicopter flew overhead. The point? Why, to promote road safety, of course!

The F999 - a formula racer decked out with emergency lights on the rear wing and police livery - is a project of the Abu Dhabi Police, and could very well be the fastest police car the world has ever seen. It's part of a public awareness campaign that sought to capitalize on the fever that swept the gulf emirate leading up to its first F1 race. The F999 is only the most recent in a slew of special police vehicles in the emirate that has recently included a police-spec Nissan GT-R, Chevrolet Camaro and a customer chopper, to name just a few. It's Abu Dhabi's way of getting people excited about road safety, and while it may seem counterintuitive to the rest of us, it's certainly garnered its fair share of attention. Follow the jump to watch video footage of the F999's unveiling and read more in the press release. Thanks for the tip, Ali!

[Source: Abu Dhabi Police]

Continue reading VIDEO: Formula for Safety? Abu Dhabi Police unveil the F999

VIDEO: Formula for Safety? Abu Dhabi Police unveil the F999 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> abu dhabiabu dhabi grand prixabu dhabi policeabu dhabi police f999AbuDhabiAbuDhabiGrandPrixAbuDhabiPoliceAbuDhabiPoliceF999f999formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnepolice Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-inside-the-cockpit-of-the-viper-acrs-record-lap-at-lagun/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-inside-the-cockpit-of-the-viper-acrs-record-lap-at-lagun/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-inside-the-cockpit-of-the-viper-acrs-record-lap-at-lagun/#comments Filed under: , ,


Dodge Viper ACR laps Laguna Seca - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Pushing a performance monster like the Viper ACR around a race track at ten tenths takes some pretty massive cojones. But few tracks require the testicular fortitude of Laguna Seca.

The iconic circuit in Northern California is packed full of decreasing radius corners, off-camber turns, and the indomitable corkscrew. Fortunately, Dodge test driver Chris Winkler was up to the task, and pushed the ACR around dry lagoon to a record-breaking lap time of 1:33.944, edging out its cousin the Devon GTX in the process to claim the fastest road-car lap time around the track.

Now we've got footage that takes us inside the cockpit for the record run, which may seem like old hat to the video game crowd, until you realize this was happening in real life. Follow the jump to check it out.

[Source: Chrysler via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca

VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chris williamschris winklerChrisWilliamsChrisWinklerdodge viperdodge viper acrdodge viper acr laguna secaDodgeViperDodgeViperAcrDodgeViperAcrLagunaSecalaguna secaLagunaSecalap recordlap timeLapRecordLapTimevideoviperviper acrViperAcr Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:44:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Chevrolet Volt tests driver-controlled audio warning system with the blind]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-chevrolet-volt-tests-driver-controlled-audio-warning-syst/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-chevrolet-volt-tests-driver-controlled-audio-warning-syst/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-chevrolet-volt-tests-driver-controlled-audio-warning-syst/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



As the popularity of hybrids has grown over the last few years, advocates for the blind have been raising a red flag about noise, or -- more to the point -- the lack of it. Because electric-drive vehicles emit much lower levels of sound on the street, blind pedestrians who've relied on the noise emitted from traditional vehicles lose a major source of information when navigating the streets and sidewalks.

There have been movements in various legislatures to mandate some minimum sound level from electric vehicles to ensure that blind pedestrians can tell when they're approaching, and General Motors recently conducted a test session at its Milford Proving Grounds with a group of the visually-challenged to assess the audible warning systems on the Chevrolet Volt.

The engineers have employed the car's horn to emit a series of warning chirps when a pedestrian is in proximity to GM's gas-electric hybrid, evaluating the nature and level of the warnings to alert pedestrians rather than startle them. GM spokesman Rob Peterson tells us that on the first generation Volt the warnings will be manually activated by the driver, although future iterations are likely to incorporate some sort of active system. Currently, the biggest hurdle is developing an active system that can distinguish a pedestrian from another vehicle. Otherwise, without a reliable detection system, the horns would be going off at all times, increasing noise levels and making it largely useless.

[Source: ChevroletVoltage.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Chevrolet Volt tests driver-controlled audio warning system with the blind

VIDEO: Chevrolet Volt tests driver-controlled audio warning system with the blind originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevy-VoltChevyVoltElectric carelectric carselectric vehicleElectricCarElectricCarselectricityElectricVehicleev noiseEvNoise Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:13:00 EST <![CDATA[<i>Top Gear</i> builds Hammerhead Eagle i-Thrust, an ER-EV to answer the Chevy Volt]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/top-gear-builds-hammerhead-eagle-i-thrust-an-er-ev-to-answer-th/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/top-gear-builds-hammerhead-eagle-i-thrust-an-er-ev-to-answer-th/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/top-gear-builds-hammerhead-eagle-i-thrust-an-er-ev-to-answer-th/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Click above to watch videos after the jump

Many electric vehicle fans out there are constantly complaining about how long it's taking automakers to bring plug-in vehicles to market. We've had commenters on this site claim that automakers should be able to bring EVs to the street in six months. Apparently even six months is too long for the crew at Top Gear.

For those unfamiliar with the format of the show, most episodes involve the producers giving a challenge of some sort to hosts Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond. The most recent episode, aired this week on the BBC in the UK, included just such a challenge. The boys were tasked to build their own answer to the extended-range EV Chevrolet Volt.

In a mere 18 hours they transformed a TVR Chimaera (interesting choice since a chimaera is a mythological creature composed of parts of a number of animals) into the Hammerhead Eagle i-Thrust pictured above. Once the i-Thrust was completed, it was turned over to Autocar magazine for an independent road test. As you might guess based on the photo, the results were not surprising and are a testament to perhaps taking all the time you need when developing a car. You can grab a copy of AutoCar's full road test as a PDF or just watch the entire Top Gear segment and video of the Autocar road test after the jump.

[Source: Autocar]

Continue reading Top Gear builds Hammerhead Eagle i-Thrust, an ER-EV to answer the Chevy Volt

Top Gear builds Hammerhead Eagle i-Thrust, an ER-EV to answer the Chevy Volt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> er-evextended range electric vehicleextended range EVextended range vehicleExtendedRangeElectricVehicleExtendedRangeEvExtendedRangeVehicleHammerhead Eagle i-ThrustHammerheadEagleI-thrusttop gearTopGear Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:45:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR makes the rounds at Laguna Seca, sets track record]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/video-2010-dodge-viper-acr-makes-the-rounds-at-laguna-seca-set/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/video-2010-dodge-viper-acr-makes-the-rounds-at-laguna-seca-set/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/video-2010-dodge-viper-acr-makes-the-rounds-at-laguna-seca-set/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Dodge Viper ACR - Click above to watch the video

The Dodge Viper is many things to many people. An object of unparalleled lust to some, a big-mouthed, truck-engined Corvette ripoff to others. And an ankle burner to still others. But no one ever thought of Dodge's V10 quarter-mile thug as a serious track car. Until the Viper ACR showed up.

Lighter (especially in Hardcore Package guise) and producing ten times as much downforce as the "regular" SRT10 Viper, the ACR model set off some pretty big waves when the big-winged snake debuted (especially in the Nurburgring record community), even though most of the rippling came from the street-legal slicks. But never mind all that, the new 2010 Dodge Viper ACR is here, and it's even better than the 2009 version.

Why? Well, it's faster (top speed is now 202 mph) and quicker (it can reach said top speed a whole 14 seconds sooner than the 2009 model). How? Gearing, specifically 5th gear, which has been revised from 0.741 to 0.796. Also, the end caps on the giant wing have been revised, resulting in that higher top end. Some new colors, too. We have tons of videos of it rumbling/blasting around Laguna Seca for your perusal, after the jump. Hat tip to Ryan!

UPDATE: Looks like Dodge, the Viper ACR and driver Chris Winkler just broke the Laguna Seca single-lap record with a time of 1:33.944. Those of you with longish memories will remember that a Devon GTX (powered by a Viper motor) recently set the (now) old record at Laguna -- 1.35.075. In other words, the new Viper ACR just beat the previous record by more than a second. Impressive. And yet another video, after the jump.

UPDATE 2: Gallery of images from the 2010 Dodge Viper ACR's day at the track added.

UPDATE 3: Chrysler just twittered: "To honor Viper's record-breaking lap at Laguna Seca, Dodge will rollout a Laguna Seca Special Edition Viper." Now that's planning product on your feet!


Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR at Laguna Seca



[Source: Red Letter Dodge]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR makes the rounds at Laguna Seca, sets track record

VIDEO: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR makes the rounds at Laguna Seca, sets track record originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 dodge viper2010 Dodge Viper ACR2010DodgeViper2010DodgeViperAcrDodgedodge viperDodge Viper ACRDodgeViperDodgeViperAcrLaguna SecaLagunaSecaViperViper ACRViperAcr Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:26:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Why? Dude blows up diecast cars in slow-mo]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-why-dude-blows-up-diecast-cars-in-slow-mo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-why-dude-blows-up-diecast-cars-in-slow-mo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-why-dude-blows-up-diecast-cars-in-slow-mo/#comments Filed under: , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

We'll tell you exactly why, because it's a lot of fun. We know, because we had a similar experience in late adolescence, but we used GI Joe vehicles (even the awesome hovercraft) and firecrackers. But what we didn't have back then was a 600 fps camera, but lucky for us, people do now... and they have YouTube to share it with the rest of us.

After the jump is video of diecast cars getting blown sky high with what appears to be some relatively large explosive. What makes this little experiment so much fun is that our mini pyrotechnician friend captured the carnage 20 times slower than conventional video, giving us a crystal clear picture of every blast. And to make the one minute video that much more entertaining, the creator cut his masterpiece to one of the best pieces of music any aspiring video editor can use in a disaster sequence; Ode To Joy. Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself, and keep in mind that blowing things up can lead to blowing off fingers and shrapnel in the eye, so don't try this at home!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Why? Dude blows up diecast cars in slow-mo

VIDEO: Why? Dude blows up diecast cars in slow-mo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> blow up carBlowUpCardie-cast carnagedie-cast carsDie-castCarnageDie-castCarsdiecast carsDiecastCarsexplosionfireworkshot wheelsHotWheelsmatchbox carsMatchboxCarsslo-mo explosionsSlo-moExplosionsslow motionslow-moSlowMotion Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/#comments Filed under: , , ,


2011 Lexus LFA at California Speedway - Click above to view the video after the jump

The lease-only 2011 Lexus LFA supercar has been getting a lot of exposure lately. We had a chance to drive it a few weeks ago and just showed you some pics of the matte black car when it showed up at Cars & Coffee in Irvine this Saturday, but now we have something even better. LeMans-winner and Jay Leno Show racing coach, Justin Bell, heads out onto Fontana's California Speedway with this very same LFA, getting some instruction himself from fellow racer Scott Pruett before taking the better seat for a lap.

The segment was shot for the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage, the Jay Leno webshow that highlights a different car every week, sometimes with Jay driving and sometimes with Justin doing the heavy lifting. Follow the jump to see the video for yourself and be sure to check out Jay's Garage regularly if you don't already. Listening to this thing rip up to 9,000 RPM is worth the nine-minute investment of your time, trust us. Thanks for the tip Gabriel!

[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage

VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 Lexus2011 lexus lf-a2011 Lexus LFA2011Lexus2011LexusLf-a2011LexusLfacalifornia speedwayCaliforniaSpeedwayjay lenojay leno showjay lenos garageJayLenoJayLenosGarageJayLenoShowJustin BellJustinBelllexusLexus LF-Alexus lfaLexusLf-aLexusLfaLF-AlfaScott PruettScottPruett Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST