September 2012

Rolls-Royce celebrates the Art Deco era

(September 27, 2012) PARIS — Taking inspiration from one of the defining movements of the 20th century, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars presented a selection of Ghost and Phantom family cars that celebrate the Art Deco era.

The highly bespoke Phantom Series II Saloon, Phantom Series II Drophead Coupé and Ghost models were unveiled at the Paris Motor Show 2012, in homage to the 1925 Paris Exhibition or Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes that gave the movement its name.

McLaren P1 Supercar makes global debut in Paris

(September 27, 2012) NEW YORK — McLaren Automotive will use its first ever international motor show appearance to preview its next generation ultimate supercar – the McLaren P1 – which takes much of its technological and spiritual inspiration from the company's Racing division. The McLaren P1 has one simple goal: to be the best driver's car in the world on road and track.

Toyota breaks ground for V6 engine expansion

(September 27, 2012) HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Toyota broke ground this week on the expansion that will support increased V6 engine production at its Huntsville engine plant.
 
“We are so pleased to see our plant grow yet again,” said Jim Bolte, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama.  “Not only are we adding more jobs and investing in the local economy, we’re also playing a role in Toyota’s philosophy to build more engines where we sell them.  I can’t wait to see more Toyota vehicles with our engines here in our community.”

California’s governor signs driverless car law

(September 26, 2012) MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — California Gov. Jerry Brown rode to Google headquarters in Silicon Valley in a self-driven Toyota Prius before signing driverless car legislation today. Google is leading the charge to develop the promising technology. "Today we're looking at science fiction becoming tomorrow's reality, the self-driving car," Brown said.

Cadillac ATS 2.0-liter turbo gets 31 mpg highway rating

(September 26, 2012) DETROIT — Cadillac’s 2013 ATS sport sedan with the new 272 horsepower 2.0-liter Turbocharged engine today received an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 city and 31 highway mpg, evidence that its lightweight and aerodynamic design marries high performance and fuel efficiency.

Ford to debut six new fuel-efficient Fiesta engines in Paris

(September 26, 2012) PARIS — The new Ford Fiesta will target best-in-class fuel economy with six powertrains for the UK offering both sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions and returning from 65.7 mpg (54 mpg U.S.).

“Ford’s new Fiesta is taking compact car fuel efficiency to new heights, with the help of advanced new technologies,” said Glen Goold, new Fiesta global chief program engineer, Ford of Europe.

Tesla unveils Supercharger network for its Model S

(September 26, 2012) Tesla Motors this week unveiled its highly anticipated Supercharger network. Constructed in secret, Tesla revealed the locations of the first six Supercharger stations, which will allow the Model S to travel long distances with ultra fast charging throughout California, parts of Nevada and Arizona.

Tesla says that after three hours of 60 mph driving the Model S can be recharged in just 30 minutes.


GM touts new aluminum welding technology

(September 25, 2012) DETROIT — General Motors Research & Development has invented an industry-first aluminum welding technology expected to enable more use of the lightweight metal on future vehicles, which can help improve fuel economy and driving performance. GM’s new resistance spot welding process uses a patented multi-ring domed electrode that does what smooth electrodes are unreliable at doing – welding aluminum to aluminum.

Hyundai launches immersive digital 'test driving' experience

(September 25, 2012) COSTA MESA, Calif. — Is your driveway in need of a makeover? The front of your home lacking a little pizzazz? Imagine dressing them up with a Hyundai Elantra, with the simple click of a mouse. Hyundai Motor America has made that vision a reality launching its “Driveway Decision Maker.”

Britt Myers and fellow pro bass anglers dream up the ultimate fishing rig

(September 25, 2012) TORRANCE, Calif. — Bassmaster Elite Series pro angler Britt Myers knows a thing or two about bass fishing. And as a well-known builder of custom Toyota Tundras for his fellow anglers, he had an idea or two for a singular Tundra with everything an Elite Series pro could imagine — plus a little more.