Honda CR-Z Concept

Honda Civic

2011-05-02T00:48:00.000-07:00

SHORTER WHEELBASE: BETTER HANDLING… WITH MORE INTERIOR ROOM?

With exterior dimensions that are the same as last year’s model, the Civic actually gets a shorter wheelbase. Honda credits this for more agile handling, although the difference is too minute to make any real difference. It is good, however, and a serious track test would be required to distinguish it from the Ford Focus or Hyundai Elantra – the latter of which we were able to compare on the auto-cross and thought the two equal mostly equal, although Honda’s traction control system is less-invasive, particularly when it comes to re-applying power after a low-traction situation such as an emergency manouver.
Being one of the few compact cars with a fully independent suspension front and rear, the Civic retains its ability to corner in the real world when the road surface isn’t a glass-smooth parking lot. Another improvement in this area, as well as in both performance and fuel economy, is a reduction in weight, with models dropping anywhere from 20 to 58 lbs.
A shorter wheelbase would normally indicate less interior room. That, however, is not the case, with Honda engineers somehow managing to increase rear seat legroom by 1.6-inches. Reasonably good before, it’s actually suitable for the legs of 6-foot adults now, although we could use a little extra headroom. Cargo room hasn’t been compromised due to the added space either and has actually grown, slightly, from 12.0 cu-ft to 12.5 cu-ft – although that’s still well short of many in the segment.
The other usual down side to a decrease wheelbase is downgraded ride quality. That hasn’t happened here, as it’s comparably smooth to its predecessor, while added sound deadening, improved aerodynamics and hushed machanicals make for a quieter ride.

Honda Accord Crosstour

2011-04-19T00:17:00.000-07:00

From its too-high stance to its odd, bulbous profile and protruding grille, the look is wrong on many levels.For one Massachusetts driver, though, Honda's own design wasn't quite wrong enough. No, this misguided owner took his Crosstour from pretty ugly to downright terrifying, all with the simple application of badges and decals. Starting with an ill-advised Type R badge up front, the madness didn't stop until there were matching Apple decals adorning the rear deck.In between, the front and rear got red Type R-style Honda emblems, red pinstriping and, as if all that weren't enough, what appears to be a "V6" badge on the grille – you know, to flaunt the 3.5-liter underhood.

Honda Civic Coupe

2011-03-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

The Japanese concern has been peddling Civics since 1972 and a two-door version with a proper trunk since 1992. And since inception, the car has sold rather well. Since its last substantial makeover, for the 2006 model year, the coupe, which forms part of Honda’s eighth generation Civic, continues to find a sizeable number of buyers; people who seem to be looking for a set of wheels that’s dependable, decently put together and can deliver a dash of sportiness without breaking the bank.

Honda Civic Coupe After a mild update for 2009, which saw the edition of a new front fascia, more aggressive grille with a honeycomb texture, plus mild rear end tweaks and updated interior features (including a USB interface in the console), predictably, Honda’s junior coupe is little changed for 2011. Honda Civic Coupe Trim levels comprise base DX, LX, EX, EX-L, and Si, with prices ranging from a MSRP of $15,605 for the entry level DX, to $21,955 for an EX-L automatic, up to $24,205 for the sporty Si, completed with satellite navigation and performance rubber.

Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition

2011-02-09T20:28:00.000-08:00

If you look at the very pinnacle of the automotive market, you'll mostly find exotic sportscars and luxury sedans. There are plenty of high-end SUVs out there too, but not quite at the same level. But demand for luxury sport-utes continues to rise in "developing" luxury markets like Russia and the Persian Gulf, prompting automakers to dial up their high-riding game time and time again. And the latest ne plus ultra comes courtesy of Land Rover.

Called the Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition, this top-of-the-line SUV is exactly that: the ultimate. It's billed as the most luxurious Range Rover ever, and that's no mean feat. To get there, Land Rover has outfitted the SUV with a veritable first-class cabin that includes four individual buckets, separated front and back by middle console with aluminum tray tables and a drinks cooler in the back. The rear-seat passengers also get the use of a pair of Apple iPads docked into the front seatbacks, and the cargo area gets a yacht-inspired teak deck. Of course the leather is top notch, offset by Kalahari wood veneers.

Danny Thompson will attempt to waltz past the 300 mph

2010-09-26T22:36:00.000-07:00

Plenty of us that grew up around a drag strip know the name Mickey Thompson, but fewer of us realize that the guy was more than a name on the sidewall of some seriously sticky rubber. He was also responsible for setting plenty of land-speed records in his day, including being the first guy to break the 400 mph barrier on the salt. His son, Danny Thompson, is no slouch behind the wheel, either. Last year, the younger Thompson managed to set the fastest land speed for any Ford Mustang. With a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 swilling down E85, the Thompson clicked off 252 mph, and this year, he's going back for more.

Danny Thompson will attempt to waltz past the 300 mph barrier with another Mustang owned by Brent Hojek. This car, like the last, will run off of E85, but will pack somewhere close to 1,300 horsepower. The new pony also wears soy-based carbon-fiber body work and unique soy-based yellow paint in an attempt to ecologically justify a supercharged V8. Hey, we aren't complaining. Head over to Stang TV for a closer look at the blown 5.4-liter.

Nissan considering Leaf-based EV sportscar

2010-07-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

Nissan is reportedly considering building a sports car based on the electric drive hardware from its new Leaf EV. From a business perspective, it would likely make sense for Nissan to follow the same path set forth by Toyota/Lexus with premium hybrid models, and indeed, the Leaf is already pegged to get a pricier sibling at Infiniti. A premium battery electric vehicle could be sold a significantly higher price point, helping to subsidize the cost of more mainstream models like the Leaf.

The big question is what platform to use. Mercedes-Benz and Audi are both developing electric versions of their respective supercars. Nissan could do a battery powered version of the 370Z, which has both its positives and negatives. The Z is relatively lightweight for a modern car, although its small size could make packaging the battery problematic. A more likely scenario might be a version of the 2009Infiniti Essence concept which was originally shown as a hybrid. The larger car would allow for more battery and range.

A third possibility that might actually be the best option is a new car based on the Leaf platform but with the motor moved to the rear axle. The compact size of the electric motor could make packaging easier than with an internal combustion vehicle, and much of the rest of the hardware could stay the same.

Jay Leno reviews the 2011 Ford Mustang

2010-06-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

Jay Leno reviews the 2011 Ford Mustang – Click above to watch video after the jump

It was only a matter of time before Jay Leno got his hands on the new 2011 Ford Mustang GT. It's no secret that the guy is a fan of Detroit ponies – he owns a minty 1965 Shelby GT350 that he claims is one of his favorite cars to drive. Now it looks like he's added the newest generation 5.0 to the flock. As you might expect, he's been so kind as to share his impressions with the interwebs via an episode of Jay Leno's Garage.

You might be surprised to hear what the comedian has to say about the car. On more than one occasion, he compares the new Mustang to high-end metal from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. This isn't the first time we've seen that connection drawn. Hop the jump to see the video.

Mahindra pickups could hit U.S. in under 90 days

2010-05-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

Mahindra pickup – Click above for hi-res image gallery

Plagued by a series of setbacks, delays, and that little thing called "the chicken tax," Mahindra has yet to receive EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 federal emissions certification for its TR20 and TR40 pickups. But man, they must be getting really close. Right?

John Perez, CEO of Global Vehicles USA, Mahindra's exclusive U.S. distributor, says that all the emissions testing on the trucks has been completed and the paperwork is being submitted to the EPA for final approval. Approval itself is expected to take about 30 days. At that point, Global Vehicles could begin importing the trucks to the United States. They'd arrive on our shores 30 to 60 days later.

By our math, that sounds like we could have Mahindra pickup trucks on U.S. roads before the end of August, but neither Perez nor Mahindra's corporate offices are talking sale dates yet. Experience has probably taught them not to make predictions, but with 330 dealers signed up and raring to go, we're sure that official sales date can't come soon enough for any of the parties involved.

When they eventually go on sale, Mahindra pickups will be offered in two configurations: a two-door regular cab, the TR20, and a four-door crew cab, the TR40. Both will offer Mahindra's slightly modified version of the mHawk 2.2-liter inline-four-cylinder diesel engine. Official EPA numbers obviously haven't been determined yet, but the trucks are expected to have fuel economy ratings around 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Not too shabby considering their 1.3-ton hauling capability. Pricing is expected to start around $22,000.

Gallery: Mahindra Pik-Up

Honda CR-Z Hybrid 2011

2010-03-03T20:24:00.000-08:00

Shifting to smaller and lighter-weight vehicles is about the quickest and easiest way to reduce the environmental impact of our cars. But compact cars have never been big sellers in the United States. Could Americans be seduced to downsize their vehicles with an attractive and sporty compact hybrid?

First unveiled two years ago at the Tokyo Motor Show, the sporty two-passenger Honda CR-Z Hybrid is back again in Tokyo in 2009. This time, Honda is closer to a production model—about “95 percent” of the way according to company officials. Honda has committed to introducing a range of small hybrids, with both the CR-Z Hybrid and Honda Fit Hybrid due out in 2010. It’s too early for mileage or pricing info, but we expect mpg in the high-30s and a price tag in the low $20,000s.

The Honda CR-Z’s 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to Honda's proprietary Integrated Motor Assist technology and a six-speed manual gearbox. That would make the CR-Z the only hybrid on the market with a manual transmission.

Light, sporty and futuristic are the keywords. The design features an oversized front grille with small openings on each side of the front panel. The CR-Z clearly borrows its overall shape from the Honda CRX sports car, a version of the Civic that was produced from 1984 to 1991. The CRX used a small and light profile to translate directly into sporty and speedy. “CR-Z” stands for “Compact Renaissance Zero,” which is meant to signify the company’s desire to give birth to a new era for compact highly efficient vehicles.

Honda CR-Z engineer discusses development

2010-03-03T20:23:00.000-08:00

Honda’s long-anticipated CR-Z hybrid sports car has made its world debut at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. A natural successor to the popular CRX of the 1980s and 90s, the CR-Z promises a blend of fuel economy and a sporty driving dynamic.

As expected, the production version of the CR-Z which debuted at the Detroit Auto Show closely mirrors the concept shown earlier at the Tokyo Motor Show. The road-going version of the CR-Z retains the show car’s overall shape, but does lose the concept’s futuristic headlights.

Powered by a gasoline-hybrid engine, Honda says CR-Z stands for ‘Compact Renaissance Zero.’ However Honda explains how they ended up with the CR-Z name, the car is an obvious successor to the popular CRX hatchback of the 1980s and early ’90s.

The CR-Z features a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid technology. Overall output of the system is 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. Despite those rather meager figures, the CR-Z achieves just 36/38mpg city-highway in CVT form, with the standard manual transmission dropping those numbers to 31/37. Still, the CR-Z is slightly more efficient than your typical sporty hatchback.

One of the CR-Z’s more unique features is its three-mode drive system. This allows the driver to tailor the driving experience to actual conditions or personal preference. Some drivers may prefer to conserve fuel at all times. Some drivers may prefer to have all of the CR-Z’s power on tap at all times, while other drivers may prefer to have a combination of the two but with the option to pick either, depending on the situation.

The CR-Z’s interior follows the design theme of “Hi-tech and Sporty,” achieved by a very futuristic instrument panel. The CR-Z’s gauge cluster can glow in three different colors, depending on which driving mode is activated (Econ, Normal or Sport). Honda also designed the interior to seem very airy and spacious by using mesh material on a simple framework. Overall, the CR-Z’s interior looks similar to that of the Honda Insight.

Pricing has yet to be officially announced, but expect pricing to start in the low $20,000s. We will report back with more on that front as we near the CR-Z’s launch date later this year.

For now, enjoy the recently released video by Honda in which Terukazu Torikai, the chief chassis dynamics engineer, discusses the development of Honda’s next sporty offering in the CR-Z. Torikai points out the sources of inspiration for the development of the CR-Z, which not surprisingly included a Mini Cooper, but possibly more surprising – also included a Lotus Elise.

Honda CR-Z Wraps come off new hybrid sports car at Detroit Motor Show

2010-03-03T20:15:00.000-08:00

Here's the car that Honda hopes will finally make hybrids cool! This is the CR-Z – which made its world debut in production form at the Detroit Motor Show and will go on sale in the UK in the summer, priced at around £17,000.

Billed as the world's first hybrid sports car, it is powered by Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, which is shared with the Insight. However, the CR-Z gets a larger, 1.5-litre engine with 102bhp and a 20bhp electric motor. Together the system produces 122bhp and 174Nm of torque.

The engine drives the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. It emits 117g/km of CO2, returns 56.4mpg and does 0-60mph in around nine seconds.

The styling mixes cues from the Civic with those of the Insight and although the sharpness of the production model has been toned down compared to the original concept car, it still stands out. Inside, the cabin borrows further themes from the Insight, with a dashboard that glows blue.

What's more, drivers can choose from three driving modes which change throttle response, steering, idle stop timing, climate control and the IMA’s assistance.

Underneath the skin is a shortened version of the Insight’s platform with a wider chassis and a shorter wheelbase. Honda says the 2+2 layout means there's room in the back for children or small adults. Unique spring and damper settings also feature, in an attempt to make the CR-Z as sporty to drive as possible.

A high performance Mugen version is expected to go on sale in 2011.

Honda CR-Z promises

2010-03-03T20:13:00.000-08:00

2011 Honda CR-Z – Click above for high-res image gallery

After a few weeks worth of leaked images and brochure fluff, Honda has finally pulled the covers off its next new production hybrid hatchback. The Japanese automaker claims the CR-Z will bring back the kind of driving joy that hasn't been felt since the CRX last left dealer lots in 1991, saying that owners will embrace this new mild hybrid with both their hearts and minds. We certainly hope they're right.

While we're really digging the looks of the CR-Z and the way it hearkens back to the classic CRX and even the original Insight hybrid, we've gotta admit that we're a tad bit disappointed with the specifications. With 122 horsepower on tap and just 128 lb-ft of torque from the 1.5-liter VTEC four-cylinder with Integrated Motor Assist, shouldn't we expect more than 36 miles per gallon in the city and 38 on the highway from the CR-Z?

Let's just hope that the car's driving dynamics live up to the lofty standards to which Honda is eluding – at least there's an optional six-speed manual transmission to go along with the expected CVT automatic. We'll know soon enough know how it goes down the road, as the 2011 CR-Z is slated to hit the ground running in the summer. In the meantime, check out our live images below and click past the break for the press release.

2011 Honda CR-Z

Honda CR-Z Sports Hybrid

2010-03-03T20:11:00.000-08:00

TOKYO — Honda launched its sporty new hybrid CR-Z on Thursday, vowing to uphold quality amid spectacular safety woes at its archrival Toyota.

Japan's No. 2 automaker said it hopes the sleek two-door hatchback will appeal to a younger set or empty-nesters who want a "green" car with a bit of pizazz. The car will go on sale in Japan on Friday and in the U.S. and Europe by midyear.

"Product quality is extremely important to us," Chief Executive Takanobu Ito said at a news conference.

Ito declined to comment on the troubles facing Toyota Motor Corp., whose president Akio Toyoda faced questioning Wednesday by lawmakers in Washington over massive recalls that total about 8.5 million vehicles globally. Toyoda partly blamed the problems on expanding too rapidly.

Far from gloating about Toyota's struggles, Ito highlighted the challenges facing automakers as they expand abroad. When Honda grew rapidly around the world in the 1990s, it also experienced an increase in complaints from customers, he said.

Honda Motor Co. said the Japan price for the CR-Z is a relatively affordable 2.268 million yen ($25,300) for the basic model and 2.498 million yen ($27,900) for the top-end model. Prices elsewhere haven't been decided yet.

The car is Honda's attempt to bring a bit of flair to the hybrid market. Designs have been dominated by the boxy lines and sloping roofs of four-door sedans like Toyota's Prius, which was Japan's best-selling car last year. The CR-Z features a compact profile and roadster look.

Its debut comes two weeks after Toyota recalled nearly 440,000 Priuses and other hybrids for faulty brakes amid complaints about a slight delay in the brakes working in cold conditions or on bumpy roads. Toyota has since begun fixing the problem by reprogramming the brake software.

Honda says its braking system for hybrids uses different technologies from Toyota's, and it has not received complaints from owners of hybrid cars that their brakes don't work properly.

Honda CR-Z: 21st-Century CRX

2010-03-03T19:49:00.000-08:00

Honda's CR-Z hybrid coupe remains on track as a 2011 model, on sale in late 2010. Honda wants sports-car enthusiasts to buy it not because it's green, but because it's fun. The carmaker considered doing a non-hybrid version of the CR-Z, but it desperately wants to be seen as a hybrid supplier on par with Toyota and believes it needs a range of dedicated hybrid-only models to achieve that.
2011 Honda CRZ Side View
Click to view Gallery

So the CR-Z gets a lively 140-horse, 1.8-liter Civic-derived engine. The IMA system -- motor, battery, electronics -- will be like the Insight's, as will the platform, to save cost. A senior engineer says, "It must be fun to drive, must remind you of the original CRX." And a manual gearbox will be offered. "CVT is fine for the market, mostly. But we are Honda! We must have a manual!"

As a two-seater, the CR-Z's smaller body mass versus the Insight should make up for the weight of the bigger engine, brakes, and tires. So a 2800-pound total, with lots of electric-assist torque and a revvy gasoline engine, should make it the real deal as a pocket performance coupe.

Honda has trimmed back its sports cars. President Takeo Fukui said the company has canceled the Acura NSX replacement, though engineers say it may simply be deferred. And the rear-drive Acura range has been canceled. Honda is out of Formula 1. So the CR-Z must be to Honda in the 2010s what the CRX was to Honda in the 1980s.

The other leg of Honda's small-car hybrid tripod, the Fit hybrid, also is going ahead for a '10 release. To give the Insight a lower overall height than the Fit, for reduced aero drag at highway speeds, the fuel tank was moved from under the front seats in the Fit to under the rear seats in the Insight. Speeds in the EPA test aren't high enough to make aerodynamics a factor, so the Fit hybrid may match the Insight's fuel economy label, and offer more space and versatility, for less money. It will interesting to see how the marketing guys handle that one.

Here's a supercar that's rising up against the competition - it's the Fenix

2010-01-07T22:53:00.000-08:00

Here's a supercar that's rising up against the competition - it's the Fenix! The work of Leicestershire-based sports car maker, Lee Noble, it's the first model to come from his new company, Fenix Automotive.

The as-yet-unnamed supercar features a basic design that is reminiscent of the Noble M600 and M12. However, the Fenix gets aggressive and angular lines, similar to those of the fighter jet-inspired Lamborghini Reventón.

“The M12 was hugely successful, but we needed to move the game on in terms of design,” said Noble. “The new car’s styling owes nothing to what I’ve done before and has quite literally been a ‘clean sheet’ exercise from the start. It’s edgy, with powerful lines, and aerodynamically will be in another league to any of my previous cars.”

Under the bonnet is a choice of two Corvette engines, giving 480bhp and 638bhp. The latter is lifted from the supercharged ZR1, and with a kerbweight of 1,200kg, is said to propel the Fenix from 0-100mph in just under seven seconds on its way to a 200mph top speed.

“Our first prototype is now in build and development will start in around one month’s time,” said Noble. “We’ll be hot-weather testing the first prototype on the mountain roads around Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where the car will be manufactured. But I’m itching to get the car back to the UK where I can set it up on roads I know well.”

Prices will be confirmed when sales start in 2011.

Hands on with MyFord Touch and SYNC

2010-01-07T22:26:00.000-08:00

Hands on with MyFord Touch and SYNC App Ecosystem – Click above for high-res image gallery

You've read the PR, seen the press shots and probably snickered a little at the quote from Ford's Derrick Kuzak indicating that his company's latest tech "will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again." After getting a chance to play with a few entrants into the company's so-called SYNC App Ecosystem, and getting behind the wheel of a MyFord Touch-equipped mockup vehicle, we're not laughing – but we are smiling. It's impressive tech, so follow the jump to see some videos and check our impressions.

Ford Sync App Ecosystem and MyFord

Dubai Motor Show Audi tuner PPI Automotive Design revealed

2010-01-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

At this year’s Dubai Motor Show Audi tuner PPI Automotive Design revealed a new edition of their Razor GTR based on Audi R8, in which every panel of the body is made of unpainted carbon fiber , just like Mansory’s Aston Martin Cyrus. This feature alone is super cool, and now with the Razor Widebody kit, it’s just outstanding.

Razor’s kit includes a new front bumper, front spoiler, front bonnet, front fenders, sideskirts, sideblades (or as PPI now calls them, Aeroblades), rear fenders, rear bumper, rear diffuser, rear spoiler, and a new rear engine cover with air channels that can be fitted with a Polycarbonate, scratch-resistant and UV coated glass in solid or slotted form. The best thing about is that due to use of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials, the car becomes much lighter (250 Kg) than the standard R8.

PPI also offers various performance upgrades for both V8 and V10 models. As for the V8s, there are two stages which add either 40 or 200 hp. And for the V10 engine, they can increase 60 or 80hp in stage 1 and 2, but there’s also a stage 3 in which they have no boundaries and will extract as much horsepower as you want out of that engine!

The most powerful variant can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of over 323 km/h.

They also offer a bespoke package for the interior. You get very fine black leather upholstery with sport seats, sport steering wheel and lots of carbon fiber on hand-brake lever, door sill protectors, driver and radio console surround, door trim, center console inserts, kneepad trim.

The car also comes with with 9 x 19 and 11 x 20 forged aluminum wheels, with 265/35 19, and 335/30 20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2, but you may as well order special carbon fiber wheels (9 x 19″ and 12 x 20″) which are custom-tailed to drivers driving-style!

Former Saab PR manager Jan-Willem Vester succumbs

2009-12-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

We here at Autoblog want to pass along our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Jan-Willem Vester who passed away last night. Until last spring, Jan-Willem was the communications manager for Saab USA. In that role, the amiable Dutchman was always extremely helpful and prompt in answering our queries about Saab's products and business.

Beyond being a great PR guy, Vester was a singularly wonderful advocate for the troubled brand, and we had hoped he would find a prominent position with the Swedish automaker should it ever find a new owner. He wasn't just a hired gun, but a true longtime fan, owning an older 900 back in the Netherlands and new 9-5 Sportcombi for carting around the family. In recent months, Vester had been fighting an inoperable brain tumor to which he finally succumbed.

Jan-Willem is survived by his wife Mariska and their three children.

Government Played No Role in Departure of GM’s Henderson

2009-12-08T14:55:00.000-08:00

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle say the ouster of General Motors Co. CEO Fritz Henderson was a decision that was rightly made by the auto maker’s board of directors, and not the government.

But speaking during an event here to announce GM’s $336 million investment in Chevrolet Volt assembly at the auto maker’s Detroit-Hamtramck plant, Michigan Congressmen Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI) and Sander Levin (D-MI) tell Ward’s last week’s decision to remove Henderson should not be a mystery.

“Henderson’s departure raised more questions, especially for the working families, than it answered,” McCotter says on the sidelines here.

“People that work at GM should have been told, and I think they need to know the reasons. Because your whole livelihood depends on working at GM on the line or in the boardroom, you want to know what’s going on, and this created more anxiety in an already uncertain time.”

But while taxpayer support requires GM to be accountable, the government should keep its distance from the auto maker’s day-to-day operations, Levin says.

Ron Bloom, head of the government’s autos task force, “wasn’t going to get into this,” Levin adds, noting “it’s not up to members of Congress or the White House to tell (GM) what to do. Once we start down the road of involving ourselves in these decisions, there’s no end to it. It’s up to them, and we made it very clear.”

GM Chairman Ed Whitacre, who temporarily has assumed the CEO post while a search for Henderson’s replacement gets under way, reportedly says he would like someone from outside the auto industry to assume the position.
GM invests $336 million in Detroit-area plant where Chevy Volt will be built.

However, pundits suggest federal pay restrictions likely will discourage talents such as Ford Motor Co. CEO Alan Mulally, who was lured from aerospace giant Boeing Co. with a multi-million-dollar compensation package.

Levin is more confident. “There are other ways to compensate executives, including issuing stock options,” he says. “Essentially, we more and more want people to be paid for performance.

“I think GM ought to be able to attract someone and pay them within the cap and say, ‘Help with the transformation of this company, and you’ll be adequately compensated if you succeed. If you fail, you won’t receive as much as you would have.’”

Meanwhile, GM’s investment announcement today brings combined Volt-related expenditures in Michigan to $700 million, covering eight state facilities.

The Detroit-Hamtramck facility will be the final assembly location for the Volt extended-range electric vehicle. The site will utilize tooling from Grand Blanc,; lithium-ion batteries from GM’s Brownstown Township, battery-pack manufacturing plant; camshafts and connecting rods from Bay City, and stampings and the Volt’s 1.4L engine-generator from Flint.

The $336 million investment announced today will pay for upgrades at the Detroit-Hamtramck plant, says Jon Lauckner, GM vice president-global planning.
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“We’re in the phase of installing the machinery and equipment in the body shop, in the paint shop and in general assembly,” he tells Ward’s. “It’s a brand-new vehicle based on our global compact-car architecture, so there’s a fare amount of work that needs to be done.”

Lauckner says Volt development is on schedule and product and process validation vehicles are scheduled to roll off the line in the spring.

GM says it hopes to sell some 8,000 Volts in 2011, and eventually ramp up volume to 60,000 units annually.

1962 Corvette C1-RS is a worthy Goodguys Street Machine of the Year

2009-11-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It takes a lot to win the the Goodguys Street Machine of the Year award, but this custom 1962 Corvette convertible you see here easily deserves the honor. The car not only looks incredible, but it posted the fastest time at the Goodguys autocross track as well! Every single one of the body panels on the car has been modified, and the majority of the components are constructed either of aluminum or carbon fiber.

Powering the C1-RS is an LS7 V8 putting out more than 600 horsepower, but we were most impressed with the eight carbon fiber intake trumpets on either side of the engine that bring air into the intake manifold. The interior was beautifully crafted as well, with a custom fabricated aluminum dash and console and Alcantara and leather seats. Check out the high-res gallery below to see all the details yourself, or follow the jump to read more about the car.

1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1-RS

Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended

2009-11-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended acceleration recall that was attributed to pesky floor mats? It appears defective floor mats doesn't tell the whole story, as the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration declared in a statement that "this (unintended acceleration) matter is not closed," adding "removal of the floor mats is simply an interim measure, not a remedy of the underlying defect in the vehicles."

Up to 2,000 Toyota customers claim to have experienced a sudden surge of acceleration, and some reportedly told ABC News that they didn't even have the recalled floor mats in their vehicles. Even more disturbing are the results of an ABC News investigation that reportedly found "hundreds" of accidents and up to 16 deaths as a result of unintended acceleration.

Four of those deaths occurred in August when an off-duty California Highway Patrol Officer, traveling with his wife, daughter and brother in-law, were killed after their Lexus accelerated uncontrollably. The driver's brother in-law called 911 and said that the brakes didn't work before the vehicle reached an intersection, struck another car, went into a ditch and caught fire. Some Toyota owners feel there is an electronic glitch in the system that controls the throttle and the ABC report shows that there is some anecdotal evidence which illustrates that incidents rose after the system was put into place in 2002, but so far, NHTSA has found no evidence to support those claims after six investigations.

ABC News caught up with Toyota Vice President Yukitoshi Funo (pictured second from left) and asked him if Toyota was covering anything up. Funo replied "It is not part of the Toyota culture and Toyota way to cover up anything," adding that the Japanese automaker is working with NHTSA to come up with an agreement on how to proceed going forward.

If you own a Toyota or Lexus and you are concerned about this issue, it appears that there is little that will be done in the short term other than tie down or remove the floor mats. If you do experience the acceleration issue, Consumer Reports suggests shifting your vehicle into neutral, pressing the brake and holding it down in an effort to bring your vehicle to a stop. This post and video from CR demonstrates how to effectively resolve the situation, and the risks of pumping the brakes. Turning off your vehicle could be a bad idea, as turning off the engine will also result in the loss of power steering and power brakes.

Grunewald Racing Camaro sets its sights on 2010 Formula Drift season

2009-11-06T15:35:00.000-08:00

2010 Grunewald Racing Camaro - Click above for high-res image gallery

Conrad Grusewald has been an occasional participant in the Formula Drift series for the past several years with a supercharged C5 Corvette as his vehicle of choice for piloting around clipping points and narrowly missing concrete barriers while in opposite lock. For the 2010 season, however, he plans to step up the efforts with an all new 2010 Camaro built specifically as a drift car with Hankook Tire as the lead sponsor.

In addition to providing the Camaro for Grusewald, Chevrolet also pitched in an LS-A crate motor from GM Performance Parts that should produce more than 600 horsepower at the wheels. The car also features an Eibach suspension, carbon fiber body panels from Seibon, Forgeline aluminum wheels and more. Expect to see more of this car when the Formula Drift season starts in April, but until then you'll have to settle for our gallery of high-res photos below.

Grunewald Racing Camaro

Renault board considering following Toyota out of F1

2009-11-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

Things have never been this bad for the Renault F1 team. Their performance is light-years behind where it used to be, their star driver is bolting once again, their top management has been thrown out of the sport in disgrace, and its biggest sponsors are leaving en masse. And now, following months if not years of speculation, the French automaker could be preparing to cut its losses and shut down its racing team altogether.

Reports indicate that Renault's board of directors is currently weighing its options, with possibilities including maintaining its full participation in the series, reverting to acting as an engine supplier for other teams (like Red Bull), or following Toyota and BMW out of the sport before next season. However reports that the FIA is considering taking legal action against Toyota for breach of contract which locked the company into the series through 2012 could make the decision a little more difficult.

The anticipation must be especially gut-wrenching for Robert Kubica, who just signed with Renault for next season after BMW Sauber exited the series. One way or another, the company is expected to announce its decision in the coming days.

Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator

2009-10-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa could be back in the saddle as early as Monday. Massa hasn't been in an F1 car since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, when a spring from another car flew up and hit him above his eye, fracturing his skull.

The first time he has even been back on track was last week when he took the wheel of a kart. Because of testing bans in place this season in F1, Massa can't drive the current car he was running until Hungary. As he gets back up to speed, the FIA has granted him permission to drive a 2007-spec car fitted with GP2 tires.

Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator. Word has it he's already mastered Barcelona and is working hard at beating the Interlagos circuit now. Before taking the wheel of the 2007 car, he still needs to pass an examination, but once he's cleared, he could be on track in Italy by Monday. This will be testing only as the driver isn't expected to compete for Ferrari any more this season.

Cars and Coffee roadshow headed for New England

2009-10-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

Cars and Coffee, the informal and inclusive wheeled hootenanny originated in Irvine, California has been spreading across the country faster than swine flu. There's no stage with bad cover bands, not a trophy in sight, but you're always likely to see some astounding vehicles.

Herb Chambers, New England dealership juggernaut, has thrown his support behind a New England gathering. "Herb himself is a super car enthusiast," says John Covell, Director of Marketing for the Herb Chambers Companies, "He thought that others would enjoy it." A new BMW dealership in Sudbury, MA, where the event is being held this Saturday, October 10th, is a supporting cast member.

Cynics may dismiss this as another ploy akin to inflatable dinosaurs, but when was the last time you were invited out by a car dealership to drink free coffee and ogle a McLaren F1 on a Saturday morning? Running from 7-10 AM, the inaugural event will be over before many people's days get under way. "Herb is passionate about cars and he's passionate about this business. If our customers understand that we share their passion, that's a good thing," sums up Covell. Hey, if he doesn't mind us drooling all over his McLaren, we'll agree.

New GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas 2009

2009-06-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.

It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.

You can hear the question and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN.

Tokyo Auto Show Preview: Honda CR-Z

2009-04-07T01:14:00.001-07:00

The CR-Z, according to Japanese media reports, is a precursor of a new gas-electric hybrid model that Honda plans to introduce by 2009 in Japan and North America. The company will say only that the concept is a "design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car."

The CR-Z is a follow-up to two recent Honda concepts, the Small Hybrid Sports shown earlier this year at Geneva and the Remix displayed at last year's Los Angeles show.

However, the CR-Z's design looks more fully realized and, judging from the official images, the car appears to be virtually production-ready. And, more important, it exudes considerable sex appeal.

Among the scant details in the press release, Honda says the car will feature LED headlamps and 19-inch wheels and tires. The cabin is trimmed in a mesh material on a simple framework, while blue-neon-lit gauges are mounted in what Honda describes as "a piece of glass artwork."

There are no further details on the hybrid powertrain, but it is expected to be an update on the IMA system that powers the Civic Hybrid.

What this means to you: If this is the future of hybrids, call us futurists.

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Honda CR-Z's name stands for Compact Renaissance Zero, but the reference to the old CRX is clear. (Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Company, Inc.)

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Honda CR-Z appears close to production ready. (Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Company, Inc.)

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The company says the CR-Z is a "design research model" but Japan media are saying it'll be seen in production form as a 2009 model. (Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Company, Inc.)

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Honda CR-Z will have 19-inch wheels and tires. (Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Company, Inc.)

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The Honda CR-Z concept has blue-neon lit gauges on a "glass artwork" background.

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The Honda CR-Z follows two recent Honda concepts, the Small Hybrid Sports and the Remix. (Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Company, Inc.)

Europe Gets Honda's CR-Z Hybrid Before The Rest of Us.

2009-04-07T01:12:00.000-07:00

Europeans get all the cool cars - the Fiat 500, the Peugeot 207, the Ariel Atom and now the Honda CR-Z hybrid sports car.

That's right. Honda will build the spiritual sucessor to the CRX but will offer it only in Europe - at least to start. According to Automotive News Europe, Honda is gearing the car toward a Continental market, with Honda UK leading the design effort while Honda's people in Germany work out the engineering.

Honda's poised to make a big push to unseat the mighty Toyota Prius as the very definition of hybrid technology, and to that end the company plans to release three new hybrids during the next several years. The goal, according to company president Takeo Fukui, is to have hybrids account for about 10 percent of Honda's sales by 2010. Reaching that goal will require selling about 400,000 hybrids a year, and there's no way the Civic Hybrid will hit a number that big. Honda will need more hybrid models.

Enter the CR-Z, the first of Honda's new hybrids.

The CR-Z - Compact Renaissance Zero, whatever that means - concept pictured here makes its European debut next month at the Geneva Auto Show. Honda plans to roll out the CR-Z in 2009 or 2010, but how much it resembles the concept is an open question. The concept looks great from the back, but that grille opening is a bit too catfish-like. Still, the CR-Z nicely updates the second-gen CRX.

It will have a mild hybrid drivetrain called Integrated Motor Assist with an electric motor between the gasoline engine and transmission. According to Motor Trend, the CR-Z won't be cable of electric-only operation. Honda says it will consider a full-on fossil-fuel burning model if the demand is there. It won't be cheap, either - look for the base model to come in at 25,00 Euros ($36,785 at today's exchange rate). Load it up with options and you're looking at 28,000 Euros ($41,199).

Look for the CR-Z to come to America about a year or two after Europe gets it.

2011 Honda CRZ: 21st-Century CRX

2009-04-07T01:09:00.000-07:00

2011 Honda CRZ: 21st-Century CRX

Honda's CRZ hybrid coupe remains on track as a 2011 model, on sale in late 2010. Honda wants sports-car enthusiasts to buy it not because it's green, but because it's fun. The carmaker considered doing a non-hybrid version of the CRZ, but it desperately wants to be seen as a hybrid supplier on par with Toyota and believes it needs a range of dedicated hybrid-only models to achieve that.

CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY

So the CRZ gets a lively 140-horse, 1.8-liter Civic-derived engine. The IMA system -- motor, battery, electronics -- will be like the Insight's, as will the platform, to save cost. A senior engineer says, "It must be fun to drive, must remind you of the original CRX." And a manual gearbox will be offered. "CVT is fine for the market, mostly. But we are Honda! We must have a manual!"

As a two-seater, the CRZ's smaller body mass versus the Insight should make up for the weight of the bigger engine, brakes, and tires. So a 2800-pound total, with lots of electric-assist torque and a revvy gasoline engine, should make it the real deal as a pocket performance coupe.

Honda has trimmed back its sports cars. President Takeo Fukui said the company has canceled the Acura NSX replacement, though engineers say it may simply be deferred. And the rear-drive Acura range has been canceled. Honda is out of Formula 1. So the CRZ must be to Honda in the 2010s what the CRX was to Honda in the 1980s.

The other leg of Honda's small-car hybrid tripod, the Fit hybrid, also is going ahead for a '10 release. To give the Insight a lower overall height than the Fit, for reduced aero drag at highway speeds, the fuel tank was moved from under the front seats in the Fit to under the rear seats in the Insight. Speeds in the EPA test aren't high enough to make aerodynamics a factor, so the Fit hybrid may match the Insight's fuel economy label, and offer more space and versatility, for less money. It will interesting to see how the marketing guys handle that one.

	Honda showing CR-Z hybrid sports concept, bizarre, touchable PUYO, new Fit at Tokyo Honda is bringing two new concepts to Tokyo for 2007: One is sporty, one is touchy-feely. Check them both out here.
	2007 Tokyo: Honda CR-Z Concept Video Angus MacKenzie tours Honda's CR-Z concept that sports a mechanical package likely to be the forerunner of a range of all-new production hybrids Honda will launch in 2009.

Honda CR-Z Hybrid Concept Car Too Awesome to Be a Honda

2009-04-07T01:08:00.000-07:00

The Honda CR-Z hybrid concept is designed to the nines. The reality check, even if this is just a concept, it's a concept built around Honda's current-gen hybrid in this generation's Civic Hybrid/Accord. No matter—the LED headlights, body lines, and dash are kind enough on the eyes:

[Full gallery at Jalopnik]

Honda Announces Automobiles to be Displayed at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show 2007
TOKYO, Japan, October 9, 2007-Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will exhibit production and concept automobiles and a number of technologies at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show (sponsored byJapan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc.), to be held from Saturday, October 27 to Sunday, November 11, 2007, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.

The theme for Honda's automobile booth for this year is: "For the endless joy of mobility on our earth". Based on this theme, Honda will display a variety of advanced environmental technologies that address environmental issues such as a reduction in CO2 emissions, together with the fun of mobility.

Two concept models will make their world premiere at the motor show. The CR-Z is a next-generation lightweight sports car equipped with Honda's original gas-electric hybrid system which achieves both clean performance and a high level of torque. The PUYO is a fuel cell vehicle which was designed based on out-of-box thinking to provide fun for both the vehicle owner and people around them as well. Also on display will be a model of the i-DTEC next-generation diesel engine, first announced in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show, which delivers both outstanding environmental performance and engine performance characteristics.

CR-Z
'CR-Z' stands for 'Compact Renaissance Zero'-an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals.

This design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car features advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle's environmental footprint.

Exterior design
Designed to be 'Futuristic and Dynamic', the CR-Z combines powerful performance in a compact form with a futuristic image. For its frontal view, an over-sized grill with a high-performance look is offset by openings on each side that lighten the overall feel. In the rear, tube-shaped rear combination lamps ensure better rearward visibility. Design details emphasizing the CR-Z's advanced image include door mirrors that provide high visibility in a stylish form, LED headlights patterned after luminous bodies to convey a sharp impression, and jauntyfin-shaped

Interior design
The key words for the CR-Z's interior design are 'Hi-tech and Sporty'. The goal was to create an all-new sporty interior that fuses the liberating feel of airy spaciousness with an advanced interface that brings out the fun of the drive. Mesh material on a simple framework construction is used throughout the interior to convey a light, sophisticated image without being oppressive. In the cockpit, the meter unit conveys the image of advanced technology ensconced in a piece of glass artwork, offering the functionality of immediate recognition while enhancing the driving experience with a futuristic and exhilarating feeling.

Honda CR-Z – Hybrid Concept Car – Official Web Site

2009-04-07T01:07:00.000-07:00

Futuristic styling. Hybrid power. Advanced interior design. And it’s all wrapped up in a lightweight, fun-to-drive package. What a concept! It’s the Honda CR-Z concept, to be exact—and it made its North American debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

Shorthand for “Compact Renaissance Zero,” the CR-Z is a forward-thinking exercise in inspired design and environmental technology. The CR-Z draws its inspiration from a need to deliver spirited performance in an efficient manner. It is our goal to deliver a small CR-Z-based hybrid in the near future as part of our commitment to help effect positive environmental change. So keep on the lookout for more details about the CR-Z.

Honda CR-Z Concept

2009-03-23T08:44:00.001-07:00