Spotted: Cadillac ELR!

It's not too often here in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania that we get the opportunity to see a new car from Detroit being tested in full camo. In Michigan, especially around Detroit it's even a rare sight. But today one of our readers spotted what has been confirmed as a Cadillac ELR being tested. What is the ELR? Well, it's going to be Cadillac's electric hybrid like the Volt. Based on the Cadillac Converj concept. And mechanically, it's going to be essentially the same as the Volt. "T" shaped lithium ion battery with full electric main drive and an extended range gasoline motor. A big Thanks to eagle eyed reader Kevin Kurtz for snapping these shots.

By: Austin On 20:08

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Detroit Preview: Hummer HX Concept

Here are some design sketches of the up coming Hummer HX Concept which we will see in Detroit next Month.

Three months worth of sketching and sculpting went into this concept before it was given the go ahead by GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz. The concept is designed with the future of off roading in mind, with a flair for the youth market which loves the Hummer brand. The HX Concept will feature removable body panels and roof, similar to the Jeep Wrangler. And like most of GMs more recent concepts, will be powered by E85 Ethanol FlexFuel.

Should be interesting to see the finished project next month.

Source: GM

PRESS RELEASE:

Three Young Designers Shape Future Of HUMMER Through HX Concept

DETROIT – Scheduled for introduction at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, the HUMMER HX concept reflects the innovative minds of three new GM designers - David Rojas, Min Young Kang and Robert Jablonski - whose first assignment was to provide a vision for the future design of off-road vehicles.

Fresh out of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Mich., the designers' first test in GM was to design a fun, nimble and innovative HUMMER concept.

"HUMMER appeals to young people globally and served as a perfect first assignment for our newest talent," said Ed Welburn, vice president of global design and product planning. "Today's graduates from top design schools are ready to hit the ground running. The HUMMER design challenge gave our newest designers an opportunity to sprint."

The task presented numerous challenges to the new designers, from creating a vehicle for a brand known around the globe for its iconic design, to ensuring the model would live up to the market's expectation of HUMMER off-road capability.

To help ensure designs were true to the HUMMER brand, these designers were given limited design direction by Carl Zipfel, an ex-professional motocross racer and director of the HUMMER design studio.

"Carl definitely set the tone," said Rojas. "While he gave us creative liberty and challenged us to develop innovative ideas, he also defined three HUMMER proportions – wheelbase, approach and departure angles, and stance – and assigned one to each of us. It gave us a chance to collaborate, but also take our own direction."

While sketching and sculpting together in the HUMMER studio, these recent graduates drew upon the creative energy of each other, further improving their individual designs, as well as that of the final concept.

"We drew inspiration from one another," said Kang. "As you're designing and sketching you try to absorb what the other designer is doing and try to make it better."

David, Min Young and Robert's collaboration inspired the HUMMER HX concept, which presents extraordinary efficiency without sacrificing the unique essence of the HUMMER brand, the world's most capable off-road vehicles.

"While we took inspiration from the HUMMER heritage and DNA, we each wanted to evolve it in a new way," said Jablonski. "We agreed it should be contemporary, compact and definitely open air. It came out great."

After three months of sketching and sculpting theme work for the new HUMMER concept, each designer had the opportunity to present scale clay models to Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman and Ed Welburn, who chose which design would ultimately become the HX concept.

In its final concept form, the E-85 FlexFuel capable HUMMER HX embodies the off road spirit of HUMMER in a fully customizable package. The HX offers an open-air driving experience via a pair of removable roof panels above the driver and front passenger and a modular, removable rear roof assembly enabling a quick conversion from closed vehicle to open vehicle SUT. It also features a slant back assembly with removable doors and fender flairs.

"Working as a team, you realize it's more than one person influencing the vehicle," said Rojas. "You can see the inspiration from each of our designs in the final concept vehicle. We're all proud to have the chance to see our sketches become reality."

By: Austin On 13:42

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The 2010 VW Beetle?

VW has been pretty tight lipped about the fate of the VW Beetle come 2010 when the New Beetle is due for a major overhaul. We do know that the powers that be in Wolfsburg have said there will be a replacement car to carry on the legacy and name of the Beetle. These pictures come to us from German rag AutoZeitung.


There's not much supporting info, but judging bye these artist renderings, it looks very similar in size to the up! concept car. There are hints of a rear engine when you look at the air inlets on the front of the rear fenders. And you can't deny the Beetle looks in the styling. Especially when compared to the current New Beetle.







Source: AutoZeitung.de

By: Austin On 16:33

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Essen 2007: Volkswagen Golf Variant Rave 270 Concept

Seems that Volkswagen is out to break all the rules saying that wagons aren't cool. Seems they are doing a pretty good job, as this is one hot little wagon.

What VW did was create a wagon that enhances the fun of the GTI and R32, while beating both with horsepower. The engine is a 2.0 Turbo derived from the GTI, with the horsepower bumped to 270hp. Followed up by the 4Motion all wheel drive system found in the R32 and a DSG transmission. 0-60 is a surprisingly quick 5.8 seconds.

The exterior has been completely redesigned. Volkswagen developed a new design line for all the add-on body parts. The bumpers, radiator grille, side skirts, taillights, headlamps, and even the mirrors were modified. This helps to set the Rave 270 apart from the crowd. The suspension was lowered 20 mm. To round out the package, 19 inch Zaragoza wheels were used.

Inside you will find a relatively stock interior. There are sport seat bearing the Volkswagen Racing "R" logo. The interior is also packed with 1,400 Watt stereo system to bump out your favorite techno music tracks. The 13 speakers are powered by three amplifiers, and 3 subwoofers. Two 12 inch monitors in the back as also supplied for visual entertainment.

The Rave 270 concept was built entirely in house at Volkswagen Individual GmbH. They have come out with some exciting concepts for the European market, and I wish we could get some of them here stateside.

Source: Volkswagen

By: Austin On 10:25

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It's a go. 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 pricing announced

We have anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new Challenger since we saw the Concept in Detroit in 2006, and had some time to spend with the concept again in Pittsburgh this past spring.

The look of this car is spot on. It has everything that the Mustang lacks. And now with the pricing finally announced by Chrysler for 2008. It proves to be quite a bargain too. At just under $38,000 you will score yourself a 2008 Challenger SRT8. For 08, all Challengers will be SRT8s, with V6, RTs, and over options following for the 2009 model year.

Each 2008 will be a limited edition. Available in Silver, Black, and of course the concept car's Hemi Orange. Each car will also carry the carbon fiber racing stripes on the hood. And each will be individually numbered. And all will be powered by the 6.1 liter Hemi V8.

Dodge dealers will begin accepting orders starting Monday, December 3rd. And the first cars will begin to arrive in the spring. We'll be back later, we're going to go camp out down at the Dodge Dealer...........

As an added bonus, here is the new Challenger TV commercial.

Source: Dodge

PRESS RELEASE:

Dodge Announces Pricing for All-new 2008 Challenger SRT8®

Dodge Challenger SRT8 available for $37,995

• The American muscle coupe is back, packed with modern technology and innovation


• Demand for contemporary version of iconic pony car drives Dodge to accept orders for the 2008 Challenger SRT8® beginning Dec. 3, 2007


• Introduction begins with limited-edition Dodge Challenger SRT8 models – each with numbered dash plaque


• Complete, broader Challenger lineup details and pricing still to come


• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 models feature 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 and are available in Black, Silver or HEMI Orange

Auburn Hills, Mich. – Dodge announced pricing today for the modern interpretation of the American muscle coupe. The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8® will arrive in showrooms next spring at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $37,995 (which includes $675 destination).

Due to unprecedented demand, Dodge dealers will begin taking orders on Dec. 3 for the limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 models. Each will feature a numbered dash plaque and a 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 engine. 2008 Challenger SRT8 models will be available in Black, Silver and HEMI Orange. All will feature dual "carbon-fiber" hood stripes, harkening back to the original Dodge Challenger.

"The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers pure American pony-car muscle," said James Press, Vice Chairman & President – Chrysler LLC. "With styling that stays true to Challenger's original heritage, an abundance of modern amenities and cutting-edge technology, the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 will deliver the SRT credo of benchmark performance at a tremendous value.

"The Challenger SRT8 is only the beginning of the story, as we'll soon follow with a complete lineup of Challenger models that will offer a wide array of features and deliver outstanding value for our customers," Press added.

Customers may begin placing orders at their Dodge dealer on Monday, Dec. 3. They can expect to take delivery of their vehicle next spring.

The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 will be built at the Chrysler Canada Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ontario, on the same assembly line with the Dodge Charger, Charger SRT8, Magnum, Magnum SRT8, Chrysler 300 and Chrysler 300 SRT8 vehicles.

Pricing for the complete all-new Dodge Challenger lineup will be announced at a later date.

SRT performance vehicles – including the Dodge Viper SRT10, Dodge Caliber SRT4, Dodge Magnum SRT8, Dodge Charger SRT8, Chrysler 300C SRT8, Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT8, and now, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 – are engineered by Chrysler's in-house performance organization: Street and Racing Technology.

The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 showcases the renowned, five key aspects of every SRT vehicle: exterior styling that resonates with the brand image; race-inspired interiors; world-class ride and handling characteristics across a broad range; benchmark braking; and standout powertrain. The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 will unquestionably deliver in all five areas.

Dodge Brand

With a U.S. market share of 6.4 percent, Dodge is Chrysler LLC's best-selling brand and the fifth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2006, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market. In the highly competitive truck market, Dodge has a 15 percent market share.

Recently, Dodge introduced the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan with 35 new or improved features including the newest innovation, the Swivel 'n Go™ seating system. Dodge is entering key European volume segments with Nitro, Caliber and Avenger. The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey will debut in 2008 calendar year, and will be available outside North America in both left- and right-hand drive in mid-2008. Also in 2008, Dodge will introduce its modern muscle car the all-new Dodge Challenger.

By: Austin On 09:48

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LA 2007: Volkswagen Space up! blue

We mentioned last night that VW was going to unveil a new variation of the up! concept vehicle. Well here it is. The new VW Space up! blue concept. the Space up! blue is a full zero emissions car and features the worlds first high temperature fuel cell. The new up! is the ideal city commuter car. When driven on full electric power, a range of up to 65 miles is possible. When combined with the fuel cell, a range of 220 miles is possible on one charge.

Also new to the up! is a solar panel which recharges the 12 lithium-ion batteries. It supplies a 150 Watts of energy. The new high temperature fuel cell is entirely new and was developed in house at Volkswagen in Germany. One of the key advantages is the lower weight and lower price. Thus making a turning point in the future of fuel cell development and mass production.

The overall size of the Space up! blue makes for an ideal city car that can seat four. Overall length is just 144.9 inches, width 64.2 inches, and a height of just 61.8 inches. The engine is housed in the rear of the car, with the batteries under the rear seat. Just like the classic air cooled beetle. The styling of the Space up! blue is totally California. One quick glance and you spot the references to the classic micro bus of the 60s. With the skylight windows in the roof

After seeing all three variants of the up! come on to the scene in that last month or so. I have to say that I think we will definitely see this car in production at some point in the next few years. Especially for VW to develop 3 concepts so quickly.

PRESS RELEASE:

To the Point: The space up! blue Clean Drive Revolution "Made in Germany"

Volkswagen presents the first car in the world with high-temperature fuel cell space up! blue covers downtown distances with pure battery drive

Wolfsburg / Los Angeles, November 2007.

Powertrain revolution in California: Volkwagen is presenting the space up! blue concept car at the Los Angeles Auto Show (November 14 to 25) as a world exclusive – a compact, self-confident zero emissions van in the style of the legendary Volkswagen Samba Bus. On board: the world's first high temperature fuel cell and an array of twelve lithium-ion batteries. When the electric motor (45 kW / 61 PS) of the space up! blue is driven exclusively by battery, a range of 65 miles is possible – enough to handle nearly all distances in downtown areas. In the scenario of tomorrow's world, the four-seat Volkswagen is advancing to become the ideal vehicle for anyone who wants to drive – completely emissions-free – to work, recreation, school or university or just shopping.

Energy is "refueled" either via an electrical outlet or by the Volkswagen high-temperature fuel cell. In the latter case, the car's range is extended an additional 155 miles. This makes it possible to drive up to 220 miles on a single "energy charge". Aside from this, the microvan utilizes another energy source: the sun. And indeed with a large solar panel on the roof. It supplies up to 150 Watt of energy that is also fed into the battery.

With its new high temperature fuel cell (HT-FC) Volkswagen is introducing a system that represents a turning point in research on fuel cells for mass production. That is because, the HTFC offers crucial advantages compared to all other fuel cell systems: considerably lower weight, significantly greater everyday utility, substantially lower price, and therefore clearly the better chances of becoming a reality someday as a mass produced technology. The high temperature fuel cell was developed at a dedicated research center founded by Volkswagen in Germany.

With its concept car being shown in Los Angeles, Europe's most successful car producer is introducing the third variant of its "New Small Family" within just two months. Like the city specialist, the up!, already introduced at the IAA in Frankfurt, and the space up! presented in Tokyo, the space up! blue is a small space wonder too. Over a length of just 144.9 inches, a height of 61.8 inches and a width of 64.2 inches, it offers the space of a considerably larger vehicle. The clever space concept of the space up! blue – which is 1,090 kilograms "light" despite the fuel cell and batteries – is largely due to the layout of the powertrain. Its emissions-free electric motor operates – as did the engines of the Beetle and the Bulli (Microbus) at one time – in the rear. Also housed in the rear, under the rear seat to be exact, are the lithium-ion batteries. The high temperature fuel cell, on the other hand, is located at the front of the car.

Source: VW

By: Austin On 12:51

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Volkswagen up! wins Autocar's Concept Car of the Year

The Volkswagen up! and its variant the Space up! and another that will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this week has won the Concept Car of the Year award from Autocar magazine.

Autocar editor Charles Hallett said the up! was "a brilliant concept car – but, importantly, a concept car that will become a reality. We like to think of it as a 21st Century Beetle – a stylish car that will provide affordable motoring for all, both here and in the developing world."

VW has been pretty tight lipped about the upcoming up! variant that will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week. But what thing's for sure. It whould be a head turner. Look for updates later this week.

Source: Autoblog green.

By: Austin On 21:09

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