July 2018

3D printing cited in success of Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak record run

(July 25, 2018) It is less than four weeks since Romain Dumas and the I.D. R Pikes Peak set a new all-time record of 7:57.148 minutes for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. For the Volkswagen Motorsport engineers, the race against the clock lasted far longer — about eight months. In motorsport, this is an extremely short period in motor racing terms, yet this is all the technicians were given to develop Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car.

Ford creates autonomous vehicles group to push self driving business

(July 25, 2018) DEARBORN, Mich. — Ford today announced it has created Ford Autonomous Vehicles LLC, a new organization charged with accelerating its AV business to capitalize on market opportunities. The company also detailed key organizational changes designed to improve its operational fitness and drive profitable growth.

2019 Honda HR-V gets new look, new technology starting at $21,515

(July 25, 2018) The 2019 Honda HR-V began arriving this week in dealer showrooms around the country with a starting price of $21,515 including destination charge. For 2019, HR-V expands its appeal with the addition of new Sport and Touring trims, refreshed styling, new technology, and a more refined driving experience, adding to an already established reputation as a versatile and sporty 5-door subcompact SUV.

Don’t even think about fat-shaming this widebody

By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica

(July 24, 2018) Since Dodge reintroduced the Challenger for the 2008 model year, both the Mustang and Camaro muscle cars have undergone complete refreshes. Further, Camaro is expecting another update for 2019. By contrast, the Challenger has basically remained unchanged for the past 11 years, except for one minor mid-cycle refresh back in 2015. Still, sales keep climbing and thus far in 2018, it is outselling the three-year-old Camaro.

Kia reveals updated Sportage with enhanced design, new technology

(July 24, 2018) Kia Motors has revealed details of the upgraded Kia Sportage, the brand’s global best-selling vehicle. The new model boasts a refreshed exterior and interior design, as well as new safety and infotainment technologies. The mid-sized crossover utility vehicle (CUV) also offers buyers a range of new or upgraded powertrains that deliver high levels of efficiency.
 

Speciality Vehicle Engineering announces 1,000-horsepower Corvette

(July 24, 2018) TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Specialty Vehicle Engineering, Inc. has to announced the availability of its all-new, outrageously fast, 2019 YENKO/SC Stage II  Corvette, powered by a custom built 1000 horsepower  6.8-liter supercharged LT-1-based engine.  Only 25 of these Limited Edition YENKO/SC  Stage II cars will be built.

Texaco gas hauler of the '40s



This 1941 Chevrolet AK Series truck hauled Texaco gas in Texas during the 1940s. Chevrolet introduced the new and rather unique truck design in 1941.  It was replaced by the Advance Design truck in 1947, introduced as the company's first new truck after WWII. The AK had a "modern front end design" with horizontal bevelled grille bars in the upper section, vertical bars below, and headlamps sunk partly into the front fenders. Peter Hubbard found the truck in Liano, Texas, for his Junkyard Dog collection.
(Photo by Peter Hubbard)

Detroit Auto Show moving to June in 2020

(July 24, 2018) The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced that starting in 2020 the show would make a transformational move to June and will start the week of June 8. The ability for participating brands to deliver dynamic exhibits and experiential opportunities outside of the show’s four walls for attending journalists, industry members and consumers, will provide new avenues to showcase the products and technologies on display.

Toyota adds 86 TRD Special Edition for 2019

(July 24, 2018) In a competitive field overflowing with sports cars, therein shines Toyota 86, a stylish 2+2 rear-wheel drive coupe adhering to the fundamentals of automotive athleticism — optimal power-to-weight stats, a cunning design, superb balance and feel. In 2019, 86 sheds none of its distinguished moxie, and gains an even sharper edge through its newest grade: the limited production, 86 TRD Special Edition.