October 2019

2020 Nissan Titan XD gets freshened design, new technology

(October 22, 2019) Following the successful launch of the redesigned 2020 Nissan Titan full-size pickup, the 2020 Titan XD takes its turn in the spotlight with a full slate of upgrades and enhancements for the new model year. The new Titan XD shares many of the new features and technologies with the half-ton Titan, but is built on a unique reinforced, fully boxed, full-length ladder frame — with sturdy braking provided by a 4-wheel disc system featuring substantial rear ventilated discs with hydraulic power assist.

Austin city limits

Austin is a British car company that dates back to the early years of the 20th Century. The name is perhaps best known in North America for manufacturing the Austin-Healey roadster. But its main emphasis was on family cars. An example is this circa 1950 Austin A70 discovered in a Texas salvage yard. It was built from 1948-1950. A sub-compact by today's standards with a wheelbase of 96 inches and a length of 163 inches. (Photo by Peter Hubbard)

Hyundai develops machine learning smart cruise control technology

(October 21, 2019) SEOUL — Hyundai Motor Group has announced the development of the world’s first Machine Learning based Smart Cruise Control (SCC-ML), a technology that incorporates the driver’s patterns into its self-driving behavior, creating a custom experience for the driver.

The technology, an industry first, incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) within the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) feature. The system is planned for implementation in future Hyundai Motor Group vehicles.

Bloodhound desert spec car seeking world record is revealed

(October 21, 2019) The Bloodhound Land Speed Record (LSR) team today revealed the car aiming to claim a new World Land Speed Record next year, seen for the first time in completed desert spec as it begins its high speed testing program in the Hakskeenpan desert, Northern Cape, South Africa.

It’s the first time the car has been seen with its precision machined solid aluminum wheels, made specially to withstand the stresses of traveling at supersonic speeds. For this first test session, the wheels will be tested up to 500+ mph.

EV builder Rivian hosts pickup truck preview near its Illinois plant

By Casey Williams
MyCarData

(October 21, 2019) NORMAL, Ill. — What can travel 400 miles without gasoline, runs 0-60 mph in 3 seconds, and can grille dinner for a week?  It can also ford three feet of water, tow 11,000 pounds, and haul 1,764 lbs. of payload.  It’s the all-electric Rivian R1T pickup that was previewed recently in Normal, Ill. near where the trucks will be built alongside the similar R1S SUV and Amazon delivery van.

New Nissan Titan adds style to the Nashville skyline

(October 20, 2019) NASHVILLE, Tenn. — No flags on this play. The new 2020 Nissan Titan was successfully craned into Nissan Stadium last week, replacing the 2016 Titan XD that previously inhabited Nashville’s most coveted tailgating spot. In total, three new 2020 Titan pickup trucks were added throughout Nissan Stadium — two on the south end and one at “Titan Gate 4.”

The new Mini Cooper SE: In Green Mode through the 'Green Hell'

(October 18, 2019) The North Loop of the Nürburgring, 12.9 miles of motor-sport history, was once named the “Green Hell” by three-time Formula 1 World Champion Jackie Stewart. It is still the regular venue for ultimate endurance tests even 43 years after the last Grand Prix race for automobiles was held there.

Every new model of the Mini brand has to put its performance characteristics to the test on the challenging circuit located in the Eifel mountains of Germany.

Ford tricks up Escape, Explorer and Expedition for SEMA

(October 19, 2019) DEARBORN, Mich. — The all-new 2020 Ford Escape and Explorer make their debut at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association show, joining Ford Expedition with tricked-out builds highlighting the latest trends in customization.

“There’s a growing hunger for consumers to personalize their SUVs, which have a huge range of possibilities from lowered street rides to off-road overlanding,” said Eric Cin, global director, Ford vehicle personalization and accessories.

New Mojave Sand Package offered on 2019 Ram 1500

(October 18, 2019) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Ram Truck has unveiled the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Warlock Mojave Sand Package, which includes a sport performance hood, black-painted 20-inch aluminum wheels and Mojave Sand exterior color.

“The Ram 1500 Classic Warlock continues to prove that value never goes out of style,” said Reid Bigland, head of Ram Brand. “With the addition of the popular Mojave Sand exterior paint option, this truck will continue to resonate positively with buyers.”

Ford announces new charging network, at-home charging options

(October 18, 2019) DEARBORN, Mich. — Ford is giving future all-electric vehicle customers the confidence to enjoy a hassle-free electric lifestyle. Ford says, "by providing easy access to more electric vehicle public charging stations in North America than any other automaker, Ford will make it easier for customers to find a place to charge when the company starts delivering new models next year."