Friday 1 December 2017

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Arcimotor Unveils SRX Fun Utility Vehicle In California

Posted: 01 Dec 2017 04:30 AM PST


What you're looking at is apparently the world's first 'Fun Utility Vehicle' (FUV), dubbed the Arcimotor SRK and revealed at the LA Auto Show.

As you can see, the SRX is half motorcycle and half car. It consists of two seats, traditional motorcycle controls, two wheels at the front, and one wheel at the rear. The SRX is also fully-electric.

According to the company, founded a decade ago, the SRX features a dual electric motor system that accelerates the trike to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 7.5 seconds and through to an 80-mph (128 km/h) top speed. The base model will travel roughly 70 miles (112 km) on a single charge while the extended range option bumps that up to 130 miles (209 km).

The base price for the SRX starts at $11,900 and deliveries have just commenced.

Speaking about the completed FUV, Arcimotor founder and president Mark Frohnmayer said it was the culmination of 10 years of work.

"I am insanely stoked today to accept the keys to our first-ever Arcimoto FUV production unit. To do so on the eve of one of the world's most prestigious auto shows where we can share the fruits of our labors with so many forward-looking vehicle enthusiasts is a truly powerful moment for our company and our industry."

PHOTO GALLERY

Opel Grandland X Gets New Diesel Engine With 8-Speed Auto, "Ultimate" Trim

Posted: 01 Dec 2017 03:57 AM PST


Opel have expanded the Grandland X family by launching a new diesel version and a novel, range-topping trim.

The engine is a 2.0-liter unit, which is mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission and puts out 177PS (175hp) and 400Nm (295lb-ft) of torque. According to Opel, this version of the Grandland X will sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.1 seconds and top out at 214 km/h (133 mph), while turning out an average fuel consumption of less than 5 lt/100 km (56 UK mpg / 47 US mpg).

Pricing for the Grandland X equipped with the new oil burner and automatic gearbox starts from €37,320 ($44,227) in Germany, tax included.

As for the new grade, its called the "Ultimate" and is billed as a premium trim that sits at the top of the new crossover's range. Pricing starts from €34,240 ($40,577) in Germany, with other markets to follow shortly.

Setting the Opel Grandland X Ultimate apart from the rest of the models are 19-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails and diamond black roof and side mirrors on the outside, while in the cabin there are new seats, leather trim, a Denon premium audio system, OnStar personal connectivity and service assistant and smartphone integration.

PHOTO GALLERY

Renault Kwid EV Plugs Into The Digital Realm

Posted: 01 Dec 2017 03:28 AM PST


Renault's head honcho Carlos Ghosn has already confirmed that the French automaker will introduce a zero-emission version of the Kwid, and here's a take on how it might look like.

Penned by Kleber Silva, it sets itself apart from the regular models by getting redesigned headlights, fog lamps and a new front bumper, in addition to the plug port that's positioned of the brand's diamond logo.

Of course, the artist should have also removed the fuel filler car, as the electric Kwid won't have an internal combustion engine. There are, however, new taillights with a clear pattern, new alloys and a special badge to the tailgate to emphasize its zero-emission status.

Τhe Kwid EV will be sold exclusively in China, where prototypes are already being tested, but if everything goes as planned, then it will be launched, at a latter date, into emerging markets such as neighboring India and Brazil.

Apart from the Kwid, Renault is also developing, together with Nissan and Mitsubishi, several zero-emission cars for Western markets as well, which will share the same platform, electric motors, and batteries between them, though each is supposed to have its own identity.

PHOTO GALLERY

1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Racer Is Expected To Fetch More Than $12 Million

Posted: 01 Dec 2017 02:55 AM PST


Major collector-car auctions take place around the world and throughout the year. Scottsdale is surely one of (if not the) highlight of the year, though – and this car is bound to be the toast of next year's events.

This Jaguar D-Type was the lead car in the British automaker's effort at Le Mans in 1954, driven by the legendary Sir Stirling Moss.

Unfortunately, it didn't make it to the finish line, retiring in the middle of the night with brake trouble - but before it did, it set a new record when it reached 172.97 miles per hour down the Mulsanne Straight.

Pictured here by Patrick Ernzen for RM Sotheby's, OKV 2 went on to compete in numerous other events, but arguably even more important was the role it played in developing Jaguar's future Le Mans winners. For the next three years, subsequent D-Types would go on to complete a hat-trick of victories in the famous endurance race, cementing Jaguar's place in the history of motor racing.

With so much history behind it, RM Sotheby's projects this D-Type will sell for more than $12 million when the gavel drops at the Arizona Biltmore on January 18-19. And the auction house should know, having sold another of its kind just last year for over $20 million.

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The Next Toyota Supra Might Not Even Be Called 'Supra'

Posted: 01 Dec 2017 01:33 AM PST


We know that a next-generation Toyota Supra is edging closer to becoming a reality but according to the Japanese automaker, the sports car may not even be dubbed the 'Supra'.

While at the LA Auto Show, group vice president and general manager of Toyota, Jack Hollis, revealed that the Supra name isn't set in stone for the new vehicle.

"Yes, we have other ideas, and yes, the Supra name is in consideration.

"I think that there is some discussion because the heritage of Supra is so strong. The name decision will not be made until next year as well. There are some other candidates for some other reasons that are really pretty strong," Hollis revealed to Auto Guide.

Hollis's statements perhaps indicate that Toyota has some trepidations about using the Supra name for its new sports car, just in case it fails to live up to its predecessor.

Nevertheless, Hollis did say that the Supra name is a "leading candidate" and reiterated what we already suspected, the release date of the new sports car remains undetermined.

According to Hollis, Toyota has yet to even settle on a two-to-three-month window to unveil the car but did confirm that more information about the vehicle will be released in 2018.

PHOTO GALLERY

Half Of Porsche Sales To Be From Plug-Ins By 2025

Posted: 01 Dec 2017 12:02 AM PST


More than half of all Porsche sales will be from plug-ins by the time 2025 rolls around.

According to Porsche North America president and chief executive Klaus Zellner, demand for the company's six plug-in hybrid models will result in a dramatic expansion of its EV portfolio.

Speaking to Green Car Reports, Zellner said half of Porsches sold in 2025 will either be plug-in hybrids or all-electric vehicles. Of those, approximately 70 to 75 per cent will be plug-in hybrids but further down the road, "battery-electric vehicles will take over," he said.

A key component of Porsche's EV future will be the Mission E, its first all-electric vehicle. Zellner has revealed that the sedan will be offered in two configurations, one of which will feature fast-charging that can recharge the battery to 80 per cent of its capacity in just 20 minutes.

Making such rapid charging possible will be powerful charging stations, set to be initially introduced to all of the company's 189 dealerships in the United States before the Mission E arrives.

Additionally, the VW Group is embarking on a $2 billion project to build charging infrastructure across the United States. Porsche will also take a leaf out of Tesla's playbook by introducing destination chargers at hotels, restaurants, and other locations throughout the United States.

PHOTO GALLERY

VW Wants To Build EVs In The U.S.

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 08:42 PM PST


Volkswagen says it wants to build some of its future all-electric vehicles in North America.

During discussions with members of the media at the LA Auto Show, the German automaker said that it would like to build the production-spec I.D. Crozz in the U.S., as well as a fleet of future derivatives.

"The idea from the beginning is to have a high utilization of manufacturing, (making sure) one plant is fully loaded before you go on to additional capacity somewhere else," said Volkswagen North American Region & Volkswagen Group of America chief executive Hinrich Woebcken.

"Of course we also are looking into this most likely option of industrialization in the United States. (But) nothing has been finally decided yet."

VW will initially start constructing its I.D. range of models in Germany with the entry-level hatchback model in 2019. A number of other vehicles that also use the brand's MEB platform will be built in the brand's home country.

Speaking about the possibility of constructing certain MEB-based models in North America, executive vice president and chief engineering officer for the North American region, Matthias Erb, said a decision has yet to be finalized.

"We (in) the North American region are fighting to get production here. Obviously, there would be more potential in terms of delivery times from the factory and so on. I think we can make it happen," Erb said.

While the company's Chattanooga factory is the most likely candidate, it is possible that the facility in Puebla, Mexico could be tasked with building the I.D. Crozz and other models.

PHOTO GALLERY

BMW's Huge X7 iPerformance Concept Arrives In LA

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 08:02 PM PST


Alongside the BMW i Vision Dynamics Concept at BMW's LA Auto Show booth sits this, the X7 iPerformance, unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

As the name implies, the concept has been created as a preview for the impending X7 and bring with it an eye-catching design radically different than any current production SUV built by the automaker.

The front is unquestionably the most talked-about aspect of the vehicle. BMW designers have fitted a truly ghastly chrome kidney grille which may actually make you feel sick in the stomach. The huge grille has divided opinion among those to see the concept in person and we can't help but think it needs to be refined for the production model.

Looking beyond the questionable grille, the rest of the X7 iPerformance's exterior design is quite appealing. It includes slim headlights, big wheels, thin A-, B-, and C-pillars, and a seductive rear-end with narrow LED taillights.

While we don't know how similar the road-going X7 will look to the concept, we understand that the SUV will be sold with at least three different engines, including a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with roughly 445 hp.

PHOTO GALLERY

Nissan Prepares For Star Wars: The Last Jedi At LA Auto Show

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 07:32 PM PST


As Star Wars: The Last Jedi inches closer to its release date, Nissan has gone stir crazy in promoting the film, creating seven bold concept cars for the LA Auto Show.

Nissan first joined forces with Lucasfilm, the production company behind Star Wars, for the release of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, some 14 months ago. That film went on to gross in excess of $1 billion at the box office and there are high hopes that the latest film will be able to exceed the magical $1 billion mark too.

With this in mind, Nissan decided to create The Last Jedi-themed versions of the Rogue, Rogue Sport, Altima, Maxima, and Titan. Before you ask, no, the creations won't be offered for sale.

2018 Nissan Altima – Special Forces TIE Fighter



First up is a heavily-modified Altima inspired by the First Order's elite Special Forces pilots. Compared to a typical Altima, the sedan stands out thanks to a matte black and red wrap, custom wheels, a windshield inspired by the Special Forces TIE Fighter, and large speakers at each corner, designed to mimic the sounds of the TIE Fighter.

2018 Nissan Maxima – Kylo Ren



The first of three concepts based around the Maxima, the car has been inspired by Kylo Ren and therefore mimics the look of his mask with black and silver accents on the front fascia. Elsewhere, the car includes red headlights, underbody lighting, and modified body panels.

2018 Nissan Maxima – Kylo Ren's TIE Silencer



The second Maxima-based concept is also inspired by Kylo Ren, more specifically his TIE Silencer. The car has been equipped with distinctive wings, red lighting on the front grille, headlights, and fog lights. The car also produces all the characteristic sound effects of Kylo Ren's TIE Silencer.

2018 Nissan Maxima – Captain Phasma



Last but not least for the Maxima concepts is the Captain Phasma variant. Baring a striking resemblance to the popular female character in the film, the car features silver armor across its exterior, made from aluminum. Additionally, there are red and black elements in the paint scheme.

2018 Nissan Rogue – Poe Dameron's X-wing with BB-8



What we have hear is possibly the craziest concept of all. The SUV has been equipped with expansive wings on either side, as well as quad laser cannons, and illuminating thrusters. On the roof you'll find a BB-8 astromech droid with functioning lights, motion, and sound.

2018 Nissan Rogue Sport – A-wing



Another interesting concept is the Rogue Sport A-wing. Designed to resemble the A-wing, the SUV includes faux thrusters at the rear and a set of prominent fins on the roof. Additionally, Nissan has fitted a set of blue wheels and laser cannons.

2018 Nissan Titan AT-M6



In a bid to best replicate the huge AT-M6, Nissan has used the Titan as a base, transforming the large pickup truck with a cannon in the tray and a custom body wrap. Furthermore, the pickup benefits from a 1-foot lift kit and a comprehensive sound system that includes an 18-inch subwoofer and delivers 5,000 watts of power.

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Camaro Moves Closer To Aussie Launch With Trademark Application

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 07:05 PM PST


It seems increasingly likely that the Chevrolet Camaro will be sold in Australia, following confirmation that General Motors has filed to trademark the Camaro name in the country.

As discovered by Car Advice, GM's trademark application covers all basis, from protecting the Camaro name for use on stationery through to clothing, footwear, advertising, and most importantly, for the use of the name on vehicles.

While it is not uncommon for car manufacturers to trademark model names simply to protect them from other companies, the extent to which GM has ensured it holds the rights to the Camaro name indicates that it is serious about launching the pony car Down Under.

In early October, reports surfaced indicating that Holden had been spurred on by the local success of the Ford Mustang and wanted a slice of the pie. Consequently, it is thought that the Camaro will be shipped to Australia and converted to right-hand drive by HSV, Holden's high-performance sub-brand.

While this is sure to thrill local Camaro fans, it will come at a cost. In fact, the Camaro SS could cost as much as $90,000 AUD, over $30,000 more than a Ford Mustang GT.

PHOTO GALLERY

GM To Introduce Fully-Autonomous Ride-Sharing Fleet By 2019

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 06:28 PM PST


General Motors has detailed some of its ambitious self-driving plans, revealing its intent on launching a fully-autonomous ride-sharing service by 2019.

The American carmaker has yet to provide specifics about its plan but says the self-driving fleets will be introduced in "multiple cities." If the targeted launch year is achieved, GM will have a significant head start on its rivals, including Uber.

GM currently operates a pilot programme in San Francisco through its Cruise Automation unit that allows employees to take test rides in the fleet of self-driving prototypes. However, these prototypes require a GM engineer behind the wheel at all times but by the time 2019 comes around, GM hopes to eliminate the need for a human driver as backup.

Beyond announcing its plans for an autonomous ride-sharing fleet, the brand's president, Dan Ammann, said the cost of proprietary sensors that will make a car self-driving could eventually fall to as little as $300, thanks in part to GM's recent purchase of LiDAR specialist Strobe.

According to Ammann, autonomous cars are the biggest business opportunity since the invention of the internet.

VIDEO

Porsche's Panamera Hybrid Wagon Is An Impressive Piece Of Tech

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 06:06 PM PST


The Porsche Panamera lineup continues to grow as the company has introduced the new Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo.

Besides having one of the longest names in Los Angeles, the car packs a high-tech plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, a 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, and electric motor that develops 136 PS (100 kW). This enables the car to produce a combined maximum output of 680 PS (500 kW) and 850 Nm (626 lb-ft) of torque.

Those are impressive performance figures for a plug-in hybrid and they show at the track as the all-wheel drive wagon can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds before hitting a top speed of 310 km/h (192 mph).

Those aren't the only good numbers as the model consumes 3.0 L/100 km (78.4 mpg US / 94.1 mpg UK) and can travel up to 49 km (30.4 miles) on electricity alone. Of course, to get the best mileage, owners will have to keep the battery charged and that can take between 2.4 and 6 hours.

While the car's powertrain carries over from the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the real advantage of the Sport Turismo variant is its larger luggage compartment which can hold 1,295 liters (45.7 cubic feet) of cargo when the rear seats are folded down. The car also has a "4+1 seating configuration" which is a fancy way of saying the rear seat can accommodate up to three people.

The Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo will begin arriving at U.S. dealerships next spring and pricing starts at $188,400.

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2019 Aria FXE Is America's Newest Hybrid Supercar And It Has 1,150HP

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 05:45 PM PST


Say hello to the 2019 Aria FXE, a hypercar born and bred in the U.S. that wants to rival the very best from Europe.

Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, the car will be offered in two configurations. The first, dubbed the FE, will use a naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine. The small company hasn't said how much power this variant will delivery but we know power will be sent through the rear wheels.

As for the range-topping Aria FXE, it will pair a 720 hp V8 to a pair of axial-flux induction electric motors providing an additional 540 hp. This will result in a total of roughly 1,150 hp and 1,316 lb-ft of torque. A 10 kWh lithium-ion battery pack will also be fitted. Aria has yet to choose a transmission to complement the hybrid system but Xtrac is expected to provide either a seven- or eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Aria claims the FXE will accelerate to 60 mph (96 km/h) in a brisk 2.7 seconds and reach a 210 mph top speed.

Beyond the powertrain, the vehicle will use a carbon fiber monocoque, a host of carbon body panels, and numerous 3D-printed titanium components.

Aria intends on selling no more than 400 examples of the FE and FXE and wants to commence deliveries in late 2019. Prices are tipped to start at over $1 million.

PHOTO GALLERY

2018 Saleen S1 Offers 450HP From Four-Cylinders For $100,000

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 05:30 PM PST


Saleen has unveiled the 2018 S1 sports coupe at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Set to be launched next summer, the S1 features a stylish carbon fiber body that is bound to draw attention. The front of the car is dominated by a protruding nose which is flanked by large air intakes and distinctive LED headlights. The model also features a ventilated hood, a rakish windscreen, and a double bubble roof.

The unique styling continues at the rear as the S1 has a prominent spoiler and a stylish LED brake light strip. Both components reside above a center-mounted dual exhaust system and an aggressive diffuser.

Saleen only released a few photos of the interior but we can see the cabin will have two-tone upholstery and a three-spoke steering wheel. Other highlights include a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system.

Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 450 hp (336 kW) and 350 lb-ft (474 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a six-speed manual transmission which enables the 2,685 lbs (1,218 kg) coupe to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds before hitting a top speed of 180 mph (289 km/h).

The Saleen S1 will be priced from $100,000 and the company is currently accepting for orders with a $1,000 deposit.

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2019 Kia Sorento Debuts With Cross GT-Inspired Facelift And 8sp Auto, Loses Turbo Four

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 06:25 PM PST


The facelifted Kia Sorento has been brought to the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show, for its North American premiere.

Following hot on the heels of the updated Sorento that debuted in Korea and Europe earlier this year, the SUV carries similar visual updates, inspired by the Cross GT Concept, from 2013.

Taking your family on vacation will be easier with the 2019 Kia Sorento, which now gets standard three-row seating, with space for up to seven passengers, on all trims. The standard 40/20/40 second- and 50/50 third-row folding seats are joined by heated and ventilated front seats, with electric adjustment, and heated rear seats, in upper models

Inside, users will also find other enhancements, such as the revised steering wheel and shifter knob, tweaked instrument cluster with improved graphics, and some changes made to the air vents and center console design. Upgraded AVN 5.0 infotainment, wireless smartphone charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, premium sound system, and others, come with higher grades.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 has been dropped from the engine lineup, which includes a 2.4-liter inline-4 GDI, rated at 185hp and mated to a revised 6-speed automatic gearbox, and a 3.3-liter V6 GDI that makes 290hp, connected to a new 8-speed automatic transmission, which comes from the Cadenza. The latter version has a towing capacity of 5,000lbs (2,268kg), when equipped with AWD.

Another novelty is the addition of new Smart Shift & Drive feature, which replaces the Drive Mode Select setup on all trim levels. The system can automatically activate the optimum driving mode, based on the driving style or driver's preference, and choose from Eco, Sport and Smart.

Finally, Kia has made the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems standard on the EX grades and higher, and continues to offer standard active safety features such as ESC, traction control, brake assist, hill-start assist, and electronic brake force distribution.

The 2019 Kia Sorento will go on sale next year in five trim levels, called L, LX, EX, SX and SXL. Pricing will be announced in the coming months, but expect a slight bump over the 2018MY, which can be had from $25,800.

PHOTO GALLERY

VW I.D. Crozz Concept Makes U.S. Debut Before 2020 Launch

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 05:04 PM PST


VW has confirmed that the I.D. Crozz Concept will spawn a production model to be sold in the United States in 2020.

Set to be shown to attendees at the LA Auto Show alongside the I.D. Buzz and original I.D. hatchback concept, the Crozz will play an important role in kick starting the German carmaker's EV revolution in the United States.

VW first unveiled the I.D. Crozz Concept at April's Shanghai Auto Show and then updated it for the Frankfurt Auto Show a couple of months ago. In concept guise, it uses a pair of electric motors, one on each axle, to deliver a combined 302 hp. When mated to an 83 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, this allows the I.D. Crozz to travel roughly 300 miles on a single charge.

When it reaches production, VW will equip the I.D. Crozz with a quick-charging function that will top up the battery to 80 per cent of its capacity in 30 minutes through a 150 kWh DC charger.

Elsewhere, the concept includes an advanced autonomous driving system which VW intends on deploying to production vehicles in 2025.

The system consists of four laser scanners that pop up from the roof, side area view cameras, a front camera, and ultrasonic and radar sensors. It can be activated through a simple voice control system or by pressing on the VW logo on the steering wheel for three seconds.

VW has previously confirmed that the I.D. Buzz will also be sold in the United States but hasn't said if the hatchback will make it stateside.

Article updated with live images from the LA Auto Show

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Consumer Reports Buy A 2018 BMW X3, Are Quite Impressed

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 04:49 PM PST


Consumer Reports are conducting a long-term test of the new BMW X3, as they have just bought an xDrive30i model.

Despite its 30i badge, this version of the premium compact SUV is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 248 horsepower and not a 3.0-liter six-cylinder, but it's supposed to offer the same performance with better fuel economy, so that explains the confusing designation used by BMW.

Out in the open, the 2018 X3 was found to be quite comfortable even with the somewhat firm suspension and 19-inch wheels. Its handling is sharp and agile, the steering is direct, and you also get a quiet ride inside, as road and wind noise are kept to a minimum.

Speaking of the cabin, CR praised the premium materials used throughout and the good build quality. They also gave extra points the infotainment system, which comes with a 10-inch+ display as an option, as it is easy to control, be it from the rotary dial or straight from the touchscreen.

CR will compare their new BMW X3 with other SUVs in the segment, including the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, as they have bought an example of Alfa's first SUV in Ti trim, which is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 280hp.

VIDEO

At $150,000, Vantage Is Your Cheapest Way Into A New Aston Martin

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 04:28 PM PST


The Aston Martin Vantage has landed in Los Angeles following its debut earlier this month.

Looking a production version of the DB10 and sitting under the larger and pricier DB11 and Vanquish, the Vantage features a bold design which has proven to be controversial with a number of fans. Regardless of where your opinion rests, Aston Martin says the design been carefully crafted to generate a "significant level of downforce."

Moving into the cabin, drivers will find heavily bolstered sports seats, a free-standing infotainment system, and a push-button ignition.

An AMG-sourced twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine resides under the hood and produces 503 hp (375 kW) and 505 lb-ft (685 Nm) of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission which allows the Aston to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds before topping out at 195 mph (313 km/h).

Speaking of performance, the Vantage is equipped with an electronic rear differential which uses inputs from the electronic stability control system to deliver a composed feel during cruising and cornering. The model also features active dampers and an aluminum architecture which is loosely based on the one that underpins the DB11.

The Aston Martin Vantage is currently available to order and pricing starts $149,995. However, it will be hard to get your hands on one as reports have suggested the first year's production allotment is almost sold out.

Photo Gallery

2017 Ford GT Adorned In Classic Gulf LiveryIs Pure Lust

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 04:02 PM PST


Just when you thought the bright green and blue 2017 Ford GTs were the epitome of bold, we've stumbled upon images of a new GT with a retro Gulf Racing livery.

A handful of original Ford GT40s once raced with the iconic blue and orange Gulf Racing livery and in 2006, the automaker unveiled the Ford GT Heritage Edition, complete with the same livery and restricted to just 343 examples worldwide.

As it stands, the 2017 Ford GT has yet to release a limited-edition variant available in a Gulf Racing livery. Not dissuaded by this, a brave customer headed to Protective Film Solutions in the U.S. to have a bespoke wrap applied.

For the most part, the livery closely mimics what was found on the '06 GT Heritage Edition. Consequently, the front bumper is orange and there is an orange strip running down the center of the supercar. The orange elements are then contrasted by baby blue and the number 68 has been applied to the hood and both doors.

Ford has so far celebrated both its 1966 GT40 and 1967 GT40 with special Heritage Edition versions of the 2017 and 2018 GT respectively. While they're cool, they're no match for this one-off.

PHOTO GALLERY

Man Selling Rolls-Royce Ghost Not For Gold, But Bitcoins

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 03:58 PM PST


In case you've always wanted to spend your digital currency on a luxury limousine, this lavish gold Rolls-Royce Ghost might be worth considering.

According to the Auto Trader ad, the private seller willing to let the car go is looking to get paid only in Bitcoin for the equivalent of £117,995 (US$159,600), making this a first for the UK's used car market.

"With the meteoric rise in popularity and value of Bitcoin in recent years, it comes as no surprise that sellers are now attempting to trade this way, it's a huge trend and currently holds a high value," stated Auto Trader's editorial director, Erin Baker.

"That said, Auto Trader won't be releasing a 'search by Bitcoin' function anytime soon. Our focus is very much on our 'search by monthly payment' product that launches next month for car buyers."

As for what makes this car special, other than its badge and eye-catching silky gold body color, there's a 360-degree overhead camera system, active cruise control system, automatic braking, free view television and a "007" license plate.

The seller also claims that this is the only Rolls-Royce on the market with a rear refrigerator and champagne flutes.

PHOTO GALLERY

Daimler Refuses Geely Offer To Buy Stake In German Brand

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 03:32 PM PST


Daimler has refused an offer from Chinese automaker Geely to purchase a 5 per cent stake in the company.

According to Reuters, Geely offered to purchase 5 per cent of Daimler through a discounted share placement in a deal which would cost approximately $4.5 billion at market prices.

Insiders believe Geely wants to gain access to Daimler's electric vehicle technology as tough new emissions laws are passed in China. Upon refusing the offer, Daimler said Geely can buy shares in the open market.

Although Geely has failed to comment on the reports, a Daimler spokesman said it is welcome to new investors with long-term interest in the company.

If Daimler did accept Geely's offer, the Chinese firm would have become Daimler's third-largest shareholder behind the Kuwait Investment Authority and BlackRock.

Daimler already has joint ventures with Chinese carmakers BAIC Motor Corp and BYD.

PHOTO GALLERY

Want The First Production 2019 Corvette ZR1? Head To Arizona In January

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 03:03 PM PST


If you can't wait for Chevy to officially launch the 2019 Corvette ZR1 next year, then you may want to check out the Barrett-Jackson auction, on January 20.

Held in Scottsdale, Arizona, the event will host the first production unit of the supercar, with proceeds benefiting the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, whose work supports wounded veterans through the 'Building America's Bravest' program.


"GM and Chevrolet are proud to honor and support the brave men and women of our armed forces. With the proceeds from the auction of the Corvette ZR1, we will be able to offer additional support to some of our most severely wounded veterans, through the Building for America's Bravest effort", said GM's VP of US sales and Service, Steve Hill.

The estimated selling price of the first production Corvette ZR1 is unknown, but with 755hp and 715lb-ft (969Nm) of torque available on tap, in addition to other modifications, it should fetch a pretty penny.

If you're in LA, you can also catch a glimpse of the ZR1's convertible sibling that will also launch next year at an, as of yet, undisclosed price.

PHOTO GALLERY

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