April 2020

Mercedes AMG GT C Roadster combines performance, elegance

By Paul Borden
MotorwayAmerica.com

(May 1, 2020) While it is an outstanding vehicle that takes performance to the extreme, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster is not for everyone, and not just because of its six-figure price tag. This is a vehicle that requires you to give your full attention to matters behind the wheel, which is not all bad but sometimes you just want to relax and cruise along without worrying about running over some unsuspecting ecobox in your path, not to mention an occasional cyclist.

Karma showcases extended range E-Flex platform for utility van applications

(May 1, 2020) IRVINE, Calif.  — Karma Automotive has announced its E-Flex utility van platform with extended range electric vehicle (EREV) architecture. The new platform is one of five demonstration projects designed to illustrate Karma’s technical direction and capabilities through the use of highly versatile EREV and battery electric (BEV) chassis systems.

Karma’s new EREV E-Flex Van platform provides the ability to have flexible all-electric range up to 200 miles, and combined range of over 400 miles depending upon configurations and commercial applications.

Volkswagen steps up development of industrial cloud

(April 30, 2020) WOLFSBURG, Germany — To further improve the efficiency of its plants and reduce production costs, the Volkswagen Group is forging ahead with the integration of its plants into the Volkswagen Industrial Cloud. The first three plants were already linked up in 2019. “In 2020, we intend to bring the Cloud to 15 further plants,” says Gerd Walker, head of Production of the Volkswagen Group.

Styling Specification sharpens Bentley's sporting edge

(May 1, 2020) CREWE, England — Bentley customers can add an extra sporting edge to their Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible or Bentayga with the addition of the Styling Specification. Crafted by hand to exact tolerances following an extensive development program, the Styling Specification includes a front bumper splitter, side skirts with metallic Bentley badges, rear diffuser and boot lid spoiler in high gloss carbon fibre. The Bentayga package also includes a bi-plane tailgate spoiler and rear screen strakes, again all in high gloss carbon fibre, with the additional options of front air blades, wing vents and mirror caps in a matching finish.

GM postpones May 20 reveal of Hummer electric vehicle

(April 30, 2020) DETROIT — General Motors has postponed the debut of the GMC Hummer high-performance electric pickup because of the coronavirus. GM planned the debut for May 20 at a GMC dealer meeting in Las Vegas, but the event has been canceled. The spokesman said GM will look at all options, including a virtual event, when it reschedules the reveal "as the pandemic continues to affect all parts of business."

Volkswagen reassesses production restart; new date not announced

(April 30, 2020) CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.  — Volkswagen Chattanooga has reassessed plans to resume production May 3. Before setting a new start date, Volkswagen will weigh the readiness of the supplier base, as well as market demand and the status of the COVID-19 outbreak. The company will continue the work to start production from an organizational perspective, and refine and strengthen the health and safety measures to safeguard our employees.

This 1941 Buick is for sale



The last full-year of Buick production before the U.S. entered World War II was 1941. In that year, Buick was the fourth best-selling brand behind Chevrolet, Ford and Plymouth with sales of 374,196. The owner of this 1941 model found in Kinston, N.C., apparently thinks it has some life remaining with a For Sale price of $3,795. Prices for a new Buick in 1941 ranged from about $1,300 to $1,800.
(Photo by Jim Meachen)

Volvo Cars to eliminate 1,300 white-collar jobs in Sweden

(April 30, 2020) Volvo Cars has announced plans to "accelerate its transformation to effectively position the company for long term growth" by giving notice for a reduction of 1,300 white-collar positions in its Swedish operations, plus a continued review and reduction of consultancy contracts. The exact nature and amount of job reductions will be decided over the coming months in negotiations with the unions. The company’s manufacturing operations will not be affected.

Take a walk back in time with the first MotorWeek show

(April 29, 2020) Most people who have an even passing interest in automobiles have watched at some point over the past 39 years  MotorWeek — "Television's original automotive magazine" — and host John Davis, who originated the show and remains the host and executive producer.

New BMW 4 Series Coupe enters final phase of dynamic testing

(April 30, 2020) MUNICH, Germany — The concept of sporty driving pleasure in the premium midsize segment is being redefined and will soon be available to experience in the new BMW 4 Series Coupe. Following a series of exhaustive test drives held as part of the development process to prepare it for series production, the latest incarnation of the two-door model is now embarking on the final phase of dynamic testing.