March 2017

All-new Lexus LC performance coupe opens new chapter for brand

(March 22, 2017) The emotional designs and high-performance models issued by Lexus in the last few years prefaced a new chapter for the brand, one that begins now with the arrival of the 2018 LC flagship performance coupe. A concept car come to life, the Lexus LC combines stunning design, scintillating performance, long-distance comfort and premium craftsmanship to join an elite group of international grand touring coupes.

Toyota donates engineering lab building to create education center

(March 21, 2017) ERLANGER, Ky. — Creating an enduring gift to fuel the economic engine of the Tri-State, Toyota has announced that it is donating its Quality and Production Engineering Laboratory on its campus in Erlanger to develop a STEAM-focused education center to serve the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati region. The vision, a collaborative endeavor involving state and local leaders, is world-class STEAM education that inspires the next generation to be creative and engaged, highly skilled, tech-savvy and work-ready problem solvers.

Volkswagen launches new 'Luv Bug' advertising campaign

(March 21, 2017) HERNDON, VA — Volkswagen of America has announced today the release of “Luv Bug,” the first TV spot featuring the all-new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, which is scheduled to arrive at showrooms later this spring. Debuting during Primetime on March 20th, “Luv Bug” heralds the arrival of Volkswagen’s expanded SUV lineup by sharing the story of a couple whose blossoming relationship results in the growth of both their family and their vehicle.

BMW announces pricing for highly anticipated K 1600 B Bagger

(March 20, 2017) WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — BMW Motorrad USA has announced pricing and product highlights for its much-anticipated K 1600 B, the BMW bagger developed specifically with American riders and great open American roads in mind. The 2018 Model Year K 1600 B will have a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $19,995 (plus a $495 destination fee).

Toyota Research Institute delivers a hands-on experience

(March 20, 2017) LOS ALTOS, Calif. — What is it like to compete in a car race that isn’t about speed, but rather fuel efficiency? As more than 100 people found out on March 3 at the Sonoma Raceway: really fun.

A broad cross-section of the Silicon Valley community participated in Toyota Onramp 2017, an annual event hosted by Toyota Research Institute (TRI). The cornerstone of the event was the Prius Challenge, where the teams competed to see how efficiently they could drive nine laps at Sonoma Raceway.

Dendrobium EV hypercar: The musical

By Christopher A. Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(March 20, 2017) In the movies from the 1930s and early 1940s, whenever the youthful performers got together to think of something to do, inevitably someone blurted out with great enthusiasm. “Hey kids, let’s put on a show!” Today that throw away line seems to be, “Hey kids, let’s build a hyper performance electric vehicle!”

2018 Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo — European 'shooting brake'

By Christopher A. Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(March 19, 2017) The production Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo broke cover at the Geneva show. Available in four versions — Panamera 4, Panamera 4S, Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and Panamera Turbo — the new model is every inch the sporting European “shooting brake” that combines attributes of a station wagon and coupe.

Ford Focus Electric gets 'Outrageous Green' for 2018 model year

(March 18, 2017) DEARBORN, Mich. — In celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day and in line with Pantone’s 2017 Color of the Year, Greenery, Ford introduces its new Outrageous Green Metallic tinted color for the 2018 Focus Electric.