CARSCOOP |  |
- How Does the Alfa 4C Stack Up Against the Toyota GT 86 / Scion FR-S and Porsche Cayman?
- How Does the Alfa 4C Stack Up Against the Toyota GT 86 / Scion FR-S and Porsche Cayman?
- How Does the Alfa 4C Stack Up Against the Toyota GT 86 / Scion FR-S and Porsche Cayman?
- Redditor Shares Guide to In-Dash Integration of Nexus 7 Tablet in BMW 3-Series E46
- Get a 2015 Mustang Revell Model Kit for Free at Ford's Detroit Auto Show Stand [w/Video]
- Meet the World’s First Drivable Pickup Truck Made of Ice
- Nissan Has Plans to Double Sports Car Range in Coming Years
- Spy Shots: Ford Focus Hatch and Station Wagon Undergo a Facelift
- Automotive Industry at the Forefront of Technology, Full Stop
- Rumors of Cadillac ATS V with 425hp V6 Turbo and ATS V+ with a V8
- Porsche Flaunts New 911 Targa in Latest Promo Video
- Spy Shots: New BMW X1 Switches to FWD Platform and Gains 3-Cylinder Engines
- Michael Schumacher’s Condition Remains Stable, Still in a Coma
- Kia GT4 Stinger Could be Built as a Scion FR-S and Mazda MX-5 Rival
- Low Rider or Broken Rider? Squatted Lada is Unfit for Dagestan Village
- Honda Announces New Vision XS-1 Crossover Concept for Delhi Auto Expo
- Mayor Boris Johnson Takes a Ride in New Range-Extender Cab Proposed for London
- New Seat Leon ST Gains 4Drive AWD Versions, Available Only with Diesel Engines
- Did Ticket-Free Cecilia Abadie Take These Google Glass Videos and Shots While Driving?
- A Digital Interpretation of What a Dacia Coupe Could Look Like
- Judge Dismisses Google Glass Driving Ticket
- 1962 Alfa Romeo Giulia Spider Veloce 1600 is a Reminder of Italy’s Finest
- Scoop: New Porsche Cayman GTS and Boxster GTS Caught Undisguised
- Callaway Ushers Out 2014 Corvette Stingray S610 Supercharged Tune
- Seriously, Overload is a Huge Understatement with Public Bus in Cuba
| How Does the Alfa 4C Stack Up Against the Toyota GT 86 / Scion FR-S and Porsche Cayman? Posted: 17 Jan 2014 05:11 PM PST  As the newest arrival and first sensibly priced (affordable might be kind of a stretch) rear-wheel driven Alfa Romeo since, well, the days of the Spider in the 1990s, the new mid-engine 4C has attracted some well-deserved attention from the press and gearheads alike, but does it make the cut against the competition? That's what Autocar magazine's Steve Sutcliffe set to find out, at least partially, and by that, we mean on a twisty track. Taking into consideration its mechanical layout and entry price in the UK at £45,000 (equal to $73,900 / €54,600), the 237hp Alfa 4C's direct competitor is a no brainer: the £41,616 ($68,400 / €50,500) Porsche Cayman (you can see how Carscoops readers voted in a poll between the two models here). Just to shuffle things up and make the video review a bit more intriguing, Sutcliffe also brought along the Toyota GT 86 (Scion FR-S in North America). While not a real challenger to the 4-cylinder Alfa, it does have an excellent fun-to-price ratio that's really hard to overlook. Since you don't like spoilers, we'll just let take a look at the video below and then by all means, head to the comments for your thoughts. Screenshots via Autocar/YouTube            |
| How Does the Alfa 4C Stack Up Against the Toyota GT 86 / Scion FR-S and Porsche Cayman? Posted: 17 Jan 2014 05:11 PM PST As the newest arrival and first sensibly priced (affordable might be kind of a stretch) rear-wheel driven Alfa Romeo since, well, the days of the Spider in the 1990s, the new mid-engine 4C has attracted some well-deserved attention from the press and gearheads alike, but does it make the cut against the competition? That's what Autocar magazine's Steve Sutcliffe set to find out, at least partially, and by that, we mean on a twisty track. Taking into consideration its mechanical layout and entry price in the UK at £45,000 (equal to $73,900 / €54,600), the 237hp Alfa 4C's direct competitor is a no brainer: the £41,616 ($68,400 / €50,500) Porsche Cayman (you can see how Carscoops readers voted in a poll between the two models here). Just to shuffle things up and make the video review a bit more intriguing, Sutcliffe also brought along the Toyota GT 86 (Scion FR-S in North America). While not a real challenger to the 4-cylinder Alfa, it does have an excellent fun-to-price ratio that's really hard to overlook. Since you don't like spoilers, we'll just let take a look at the video below and then by all means, head to the comments for your thoughts. Screenshots via Autocar/YouTube    |
| How Does the Alfa 4C Stack Up Against the Toyota GT 86 / Scion FR-S and Porsche Cayman? Posted: 17 Jan 2014 05:11 PM PST As the newest arrival and first sensibly priced (affordable might be kind of a stretch) rear-wheel driven Alfa Romeo since, well, the days of the Spider in the 1990s, the new mid-engine 4C has attracted some well-deserved attention from the press and gearheads alike, but does it make the cut against the competition? That's what Autocar magazine's Steve Sutcliffe set to find out, at least partially, and by that, we mean on a twisty track. Taking into consideration its mechanical layout and entry price in the UK at £45,000 (equal to $73,900 / €54,600), the 237hp Alfa 4C's direct competitor is a no brainer: the £41,616 ($68,400 / €50,500) Porsche Cayman (you can see how Carscoops readers voted in a poll between the two models here). Just to shuffle things up and make the video review a bit more intriguing, Sutcliffe also brought along the Toyota GT 86 (Scion FR-S in North America). While not a real challenger to the 4-cylinder Alfa, it does have an excellent fun-to-price ratio that's really hard to overlook. Since you don't like spoilers, we'll just let take a look at the video below and then by all means, head to the comments for your thoughts. Screenshots via Autocar/YouTube    |
| Redditor Shares Guide to In-Dash Integration of Nexus 7 Tablet in BMW 3-Series E46 Posted: 17 Jan 2014 04:29 PM PST  A recent Reddit post from forum member Brake_L8 elaborates on how it was possible to transplant a Nexus 7 Android tablet into the center dash of a BMW 3-Series E46. The photos provided prove it looks pretty good once done up and it apparently works really well too. The author goes into more detail about how it uses custom software that is activated upon turning the ignition key, as well as the need to move the climate control unit to make room for the touchscreen. It looks fairly easy to do, but make sure you know what you're doing before you set out to dismantle your dashboard. If you're not sure of how, explain your idea to somebody who is more handy (i.e. a friend or a professional audio installer) and pay them a menial amount to do it for you. The problem with buying an older car, say from the early 2000s, is that while it may still be desirable today and still competent from an engineering standpoint, it will lack most of the connectivity features that are now commonplace. Any car similar to the E46 is still a nice, modern car to own, however the same problem of nonexistent infotainment persists (not limited to BMW) and given the more unusual shapes of the center stack's openings, a great solution is difficult to find – plopping a tablet in in this way is definitely one way to go! By Andrei Nedelea Story References and Photo Credits: Reddit/Brake_L8           |
| Get a 2015 Mustang Revell Model Kit for Free at Ford's Detroit Auto Show Stand [w/Video] Posted: 17 Jan 2014 04:00 PM PST  Visitors of the Detroit Auto Show who can't afford a real 2015 Ford Mustang won't go home empty-handed. That's because toy manufacturer Revell is giving away the first official 2015 Mustang model kit free of charge to those who visit Ford's booth. To commemorate 50 years of Mustang, Revell will host a "Make 'n Take" event at the Ford stand during the show. At the event, children of all ages (yes, you too) and enthusiasts will be able to build and take home their own free Auto Show Edition 2015 Ford Mustang model before the real pony car even hits the road. "For nearly 50 years, kids of all ages have been configuring and building their own personal full-size and small-scale Mustangs, and now they can build a new dream car and take it home," said Steve Ling, Ford car marketing manager. Revell's 2015 Ford Mustang model kit can be easily assembled in minutes. "I am thrilled Revell has the opportunity to work with Ford this year and provide kids and enthusiasts a chance to make and then take our 2015 Ford Mustang models home with them," said Lou Aguilera, Revell vice president and general manager. Revell introduced its first scale model of the Ford Mustang in 1968 and has produced more than 3 million small-scale Mustangs ever since together with sister brand Monogram, in scales ranging from 1/64 to 1/12. The Detroit Auto Show is open for the public from January 18 to January 26. By Dan Mihalascu     |
| Meet the World’s First Drivable Pickup Truck Made of Ice Posted: 17 Jan 2014 03:31 PM PST  To demonstrate that its Motomaster Eliminator Battery will resist temperatures of minus 40 degrees Celsius (-40 Fahrenheit), retail chain 'Canadian Tire' mounted the battery on a pickup truck made of blocks of ice. The truck was built by Hensall, Ontario-based Iceculture, a company specializing in ice sculptures, using a real truck chassis and running gear. The team then welded the suspension solid and used 11,000 pounds (4,989kg) of blocks of ice to shape the bodywork. What's interesting about the ice pickup truck is that it's drivable – or at least it was before it melted… On December 12, 2013, the truck set a world record for "the first self-propelled ice creation to drive", covering a mile (1.6 kilometers) at an average speed of 20 km/h (12.4 mph). Scroll down to see the commercial and then to watch an interesting behind the scenes documentary on how the truck was built. There's also a video of the truck's testing, another of its world record attempt, and, finally, a reverse video of it… melting. By Dan Mihalascu Story References: Canadian Tire via Autoblog-com    |
| Nissan Has Plans to Double Sports Car Range in Coming Years Posted: 17 Jan 2014 02:59 PM PST  Nissan's Andy Palmer recently announced on the sidelines of the Detroit motor show that the Japanese manufacturer was on track to double its sports car range in the next few years, up from two to four models. The plan is to have new versions to replace the current GT-R and 370Z, as well as a couple of additional cars, previewed by the two IDx and Bladeglider concepts. Palmer was quoted as saying: "The IDx will be at one end of the spectrum and the Bladeglider at the other, and in the middle we will have a lower-end sports car and a new GT-R. With the GT-R, we will do a renewal each year and there will be a new one. It will retain the mechanical look of the current car, but with more of the cues from the latest Nissan design. It will still be very aggressive." In regards to the successor to the 370Z, he said that its powertrain had already been lined up and that it would employ smaller displacement and turbocharging. "There will be normal and Nismo versions" too, he said. The Bladeglider would be a full-electric vehicle, while the production IDx's possible powertrain choices have already been detailed. The move on Nissan's part was reportedly prompted by the strong response they got from the two concepts and the desire from within the company to "find a way of re-engaging with youth who are not interested (in driving and getting their license) at all. I don't want to make these cars attractive to me but to them," according to Palmer. By Andrei Nedelea Story References: Just-Auto           |
| Spy Shots: Ford Focus Hatch and Station Wagon Undergo a Facelift Posted: 17 Jan 2014 02:37 PM PST  Ford is applying a makeover to the entire range of its Focus series, which our spies seized in five-door and hatchback forms on separate occasions while undergoing tests in Europe. The front of the car will take the brunt of the cosmetic touchup, likely adopting Ford's familiar gaping grille that brings to mind Aston Martin models. The cover-up of the hatchback's other side suggests changes to the rear as well, though, we don't know if they'll be as extensive as the front. Whether Ford will do the same to the tail of the station wagon model remains to be seen, as this prototype did not sport any updates. Previous spy pictures of the interior indicate a refreshed center console and new buttons on the dashboard. We've also heard rumors about the return of the high-performance RS model to the range after the presentation of the facelift wearing a tuned version of the 2015 Mustang's 2.3-liter turbocharged engine with somewhere around 350hp. Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS              |
| Automotive Industry at the Forefront of Technology, Full Stop Posted: 17 Jan 2014 02:15 PM PST  In spite of the fact that the automotive industry is a profit-driven and -making machine, it still inherently brings about technological progress, as companies try to outdo one another. It's not the best way to bring it about, but at least it sort of works. In fact, the automotive industry is easily one of the leading sectors and is "frequently a leader," according to a CAR (Center for Automotive Research) report, quoted by GreenCarCongress. It acknowledges that it's difficult to raise one's head and keep it up given the state of the industry and the ever changing conditions, economic or otherwise, and that some $100 (€73) billion are spent on research globally every year, of which around $18 (€13) billion in the US alone – that equates to $1,200 spent per vehicle. It also makes up 16 percent of the total worldwide research and development funding, using around 4 percent of its revenues in this way, though that percentage can be and usually is higher. The study mentions the following: "The electronics content in modern automobiles has climbed dramatically, enabling the expansion of features that has improved safety, performance, and efficiency. An average vehicle contains around 60 microprocessors to run electric content—four times as many as a decade ago. More than 10 million lines of software code run a typical vehicle's computer network—more than half the lines of code that reportedly run Boeing's 787 Dreamliner." By Andrei Nedelea     |
| Rumors of Cadillac ATS V with 425hp V6 Turbo and ATS V+ with a V8 Posted: 17 Jan 2014 01:29 PM PST  The ATS has been garnering a lot of positive attention for Cadillac and consequently, GM as a whole, beginning with the initial launch of the sedan and continuing with the classy-looking Coupe revealed earlier this week. There's still more to come, including different body styles and more importantly, a V version. Or make that two "V" versions, if we're going to believe a report from Motor Trend magazine that says Cadillac will offer a base ATS V equipped with a slightly uprated version of the CTS V Sport's 3.6-liter V6 making 425 hp, and later on, an ATS V+ (plus) with an even more powerful V8, though, there are no more details on that. Strangely, the report mentions plans for the availability of three gearboxes, including a seven-speed manual, an eight-speed auto, and a dual-clutch transmission – the latter doesn't exist yet in a production model. Finally, it's mentioned that the next CTS V won't get the Corvette Z06's supercharged LT4 6.2-liter V8, but a new twin-turbo version of the Corvette's LT1 V8 " that's also slated for the next Corvette ZR1" – you know, the one that won't be offered in the C7, according to another recent report… We probably don't need to tell you, but we will anyway: take all information with a grain or two of salt until we hear something more concrete from an official source.              |
| Porsche Flaunts New 911 Targa in Latest Promo Video Posted: 17 Jan 2014 01:01 PM PST  There's no doubt that the roof of the Porsche 911 Targa will be the main reason people will buy the car. Why would anyone bother with the 911 Targa when the 911 Coupe promises to offer a sharper driving experience and the 911 Cabriolet a lot more open sky above the passengers' heads? A homage to the original 1965 Porsche 911 Targa, the new model really nails it in terms of design – not to mention the sophisticated, but let's be frank, rather pointless roof opening mechanism. And since you know all the details about the 991 Targa, Porsche released a promotional video whose single purpose is to make you want to buy a 911 Targa. Well, as long as you have set aside $101,600 in the U.S. (the price of the base 911 Targa 4 model) or €109,338 in Germany, Porsche would be more than glad to have you in their showrooms. Scroll down to watch the Porsche 911 Targa in action. By Dan Mihalascu    |
| Spy Shots: New BMW X1 Switches to FWD Platform and Gains 3-Cylinder Engines Posted: 17 Jan 2014 12:35 PM PST  The closer BMW edges to being a…Volkswagen brand of this world instead of an exclusively premium manufacturer, the more mainstream some of its products become, and you can see this from the designs to the expansion into popular segments and the adoption of front-wheel drive platforms for models like the X1. Truth to be told, from a mainstream buyer's perspective, it makes a lot of sense for smaller SUVs and crossovers that won't necessarily be ordered with all-wheel drive to come with a front-wheel drive layout as this solution offers reduced costs, increased fuel economy, less weight and more driver-friendly handling. As such, the second generation X1, expected to be revealed at next year's Frankfurt Motor Show, will abandon the current model's older (E91) 3-Series Touring's platform with RWD and AWD, switching to the BMW Group's UKL1 architecture shared with the new Mini models like the hatch, which utilizes transversely mounted engines powering the front- or optionally, all-four wheels. For its motivation, the X1 will also share the same engine lineup with the new Mini range, comprising 1.5-liter three-cylinder and 2.0-liter four-cylinder mills, all turbocharged. Unlike the current model, the new X1 will not be available with six-cylinder engines. The competition for the X1 when it hits the market in 2016 will include the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Audi Q3, both of which will be offered in the States this year. Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS           |
| Michael Schumacher’s Condition Remains Stable, Still in a Coma Posted: 17 Jan 2014 12:10 PM PST  It's been more than two weeks since Michael Schumacher's unfortunate skiing accident left him in an induced coma. But there may be a ray of hope for the seven-time Formula One world champion and his family, as for the first time the word "critical" was not used in an official statement from Schumacher's manager Sabine Kehm. The champion remains in stable condition following the skiing accident that left him with severe head injuries since December 29, Kehm said on Friday. Since the accident, Schumacher has been in an induced coma in a Grenoble hospital in France. "Michael's family is very happy and confident with the work of the team of doctors treating Michael, and they trust them completely. Michael's condition is still considered as stable," Kehm said in an emailed statement, according to an ABC News report. However, the manager stressed that any information regarding Schumacher's health not coming from the doctors who treat him or his management "must be treated as pure speculation." The swift reaction comes after German weekly news magazine Focus reported Schumacher might remain in a coma for the rest of his life. Doctors treating Schumacher at the Grenoble hospital have not commented on his condition since January 6, when they said his condition was still critical. We can only hope we'll hear better news soon. By Dan Mihalascu     |
| Kia GT4 Stinger Could be Built as a Scion FR-S and Mazda MX-5 Rival Posted: 17 Jan 2014 11:47 AM PST  The Kia GT4 Stinger concept, displayed at the Detroit motor show, was arguably one of the venue's highlights. It is wacky-looking enough to thoroughly deserve being called a concept, but it has a proper powertrain configuration and engine, plus it is painted orange to attract as many gazes as possible, and it looked a bit like an Audi, so also it caused a bit of welcome controversy. All these factors played in its favor and it garnered quite the interest; now AutoExpress magazine even says it may materialize into a production car by 2016. Speaking to Tom Kearns, the designer behind the GT4 Stinger, explained that "it's a total concept, but when we do these cars we have in the back of our minds that if we decide to make it, we don't have to change it too much." If built, it would retain the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, rear-wheel drive architecture and styling cues and be priced to compete with the Toyota GT-86 and even the upcoming Mazda MX-5 (and the Alfa Romeo Spider, inherently). However, the 300+ hp figure would likely be cut down, especially given the fact that it would be proposed as a more affordable buy from a value-oriented manufacturer. In regards to the overall look, Kearns said "I'd love it to be like this. It looks sporty and muscular without looking like an angry transformer. We have a new version of our signature grille – a face with a simplicity of design." If it is to come true, a convertible model could also be made out of it. By Andrei Nedelea                        |
| Low Rider or Broken Rider? Squatted Lada is Unfit for Dagestan Village Posted: 17 Jan 2014 11:24 AM PST  Hey, there's nothing wrong with lowering the stance of your car even if you decide to follow Japanese extremes, as this is purely a subjective matter of personal preferences and taste, but if you're going to go that way, you just might want to take into consideration the condition of the roads you'll be rolling around on. The owner of this low-riding Lada from a village somewhere in Dagestan, which is a federal subject (a republic) of Russia, found that out the rathe, hard way… To the amusement of the lad holding the camera, he had to remove the front bumper and lay some wooden planks on the ground to get the vehicle moving up the dirt road. Watch how it played out for yourself in the following video.    |
| Honda Announces New Vision XS-1 Crossover Concept for Delhi Auto Expo Posted: 17 Jan 2014 11:02 AM PST  Honda has trying to be active in the Indian market and will continue to do so at the upcoming India Expo Mart in Greater Greater Noida, Delhi (from February 5 to 11), where it will host the world premiere of a new concept model named the Vision XS-1. The Japanese carmaker offered very little in the way of information on the Vision XS-1, simply stating that it's a new crossover model that features "sporty styling and outstanding utility space based on Honda's unique packaging technologies". Joining the mystery concept model will be some of Honda's most recent conceptual and production cars including the Mobilio and Jazz that will receive their local premiere, the NSX Concept, Accord Hybrid, City, Brio, Amaze and CR-V. Story References: Honda via Worldcarfans       |
| Mayor Boris Johnson Takes a Ride in New Range-Extender Cab Proposed for London Posted: 17 Jan 2014 10:29 AM PST  Thankfully, the seemingly Mitsuoka-styled Nissan London Cab won't be the only way for future tourists and locals to travel the city, as it will not be the sole next-gen taxi to be used. The new Metrocab, that borrows its name and shape from the old British-built Metrocab (1987 – 2000), is a range extender that has been in the works since 2007. Developed by UK-based Frazer-Nash subsidiary Ecolive Ltd., it uses two electric motors driving the wheels at the back, plus a petrol engine of unspecified capacity to top up the battery when almost out of power. It will be even cleaner than the Nissan NV200, with its 1.6-liter petrol engine, offer seating for six and excellent all-round visibility for all passengers (including a panoramic glass roof). Moreover, its looks are nowhere near as ridiculous as those of the bug-eyed Japanese van and actually kind-of work as a design proposal that also serves more of a practical role (of being cavernous inside). Reports suggest that it could hit 75+ mpg UK (62.5 mpg US or 3.76 l/100km). The video posted below shows the current mayor of London, Boris Johnson, having a go in one of these new Metrocabs that are said to begin working trials this month, and getting the tour from those who created it. Check it out by scrolling down to after the virtual jump. By Andrei Nedelea    |
| New Seat Leon ST Gains 4Drive AWD Versions, Available Only with Diesel Engines Posted: 17 Jan 2014 09:59 AM PST  The new Seat Leon ST is now available in "4Drive" all-wheel-drive versions. Making its debut at the Vienna Auto Show (January 16-19), the Seat Leon ST 4Drive is offered with two diesel engines: a 104hp/105PS 1.6-liter and a 148hp/150PS 2.0-liter. The 4Drive system is a permanent all-wheel-drive system that uses a newly developed multi-plate clutch with hydraulic actuation and electronic control – a fifth-generation Haldex clutch. The AWD system works in conjunction with the four-wheel EDS dynamic control system consisting of electronic differential locks on both axles, the extended electronic differential lock for better traction while cornering (XDS), the electronic stability program and the multi-collision brake. In normal operation, the clutch sends most of the engine power to the front wheels, but when traction suffers, the torque is diverted to the rear as well. The two TDI engines are mated to a six-speed manual transmission, with average fuel economy standing at 4.5 l/100 km (52.2 mpg US) for the 1.6-liter and 4.8 l/100 km (49 mpg US) for the 2.0-liter. CO2 emissions are rated at 119 and 124 grams per kilometer, respectively. Both models are fitted as standard with a start/stop system and braking-energy regeneration. The 2.0 TDI model sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.7 seconds, while the 1.6 TDI does it in 12 seconds. Top speed is rated at 211 km/h (131 mph) and 187 km/h (116 mph), respectively. The Seat Leon ST 4Drive 1.6 TDI will be introduced in Europe this April, with the 2.0 TDI model to arrive in summer. By Dan Mihalascu              |
| Did Ticket-Free Cecilia Abadie Take These Google Glass Videos and Shots While Driving? Posted: 17 Jan 2014 09:28 AM PST  Now this could become a little awkward for Cecilia Abadie, who was just cleared for driving while wearing Google Glass in California because there was not enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the she had them turned on when stopped by an officer last October. After we reported about the story of a California judge dismissing the ticket she received in October, we looked at her Google Plus and YouTube pages where we found some interesting pictures and videos shot with Google Glass. Now, while there's no question whether the photos depict Google Glass with apps running behind, we can't be absolutely sure that Abadie, a software developer in profession, is the one wearing them in all instances. For example, the second video contains a slideshow with a collection of photos shared from other drivers around the world. She does have one video on YouTube, believed to show herself and a friend driving and recording in what looks to be a Toyota Prius, with the same car appearing in one of the two shots tagged #throughghlass. In that image, we can be certain it's her because she commented the following: "I just received a message from Noble while driving. Can't wait to see what you're on to!" The other picture, which is from a different vehicle, taken on October 10, 2013, is featured next to her profile photo. If you're wondering, she was ticketed while driving Interstate 15 near Aero Drive on October 29. We don't know the exact workings of Google Glass, which were handed out to some 30,000 beta testers called "explorers" before they become widely available to the public later this year, but do keep in mind that, most devices of this kind usually track and keep a history of use. As previously reported, the legal framework remains murky at this time and it really depends on the officer and the state laws whether Google Glass wearers behind the wheel should be stopped, warned or ticketed. What do you think about the use of Google Glass and other types of wearable devices when driving a vehicle or a motorcycle? Do you feel comfortable knowing that drivers may be using Google Glass apps on the road, and is it worse or better than cell phones? If you want my initial opinion on the matter, I believe this is an important safety issue that certainly needs to be discussed and carefully and comprehensively studied. Share your thoughts in the comments that follow. By John Halas Screenshots: CeciliaAbadie/Google Plus       |
| A Digital Interpretation of What a Dacia Coupe Could Look Like Posted: 17 Jan 2014 08:34 AM PST  While the rumors of a possible sporty two-door built by Renault's Romanian arm, Dacia, have died down, being dismissed and criticized almost as soon as they were launched, that has absolutely no relevance in the world of PhotoShop. Digital manipulator of automotive photos X-Tomi has taken it seriously and has created a stylish if slightly exaggerated interpretation of the idea. Starting off with the plain Logan Sedan, he removed the doors, changed the flanks, bumpers and side skirts, before finishing it off with a set of rims (the over-the-top part of the proposal). Those familiar with the shape will also spot the shorter and wider tail lights and more pronounced boot lid spoiler too. It does kind-of work looking at these renderings, but do you think this would ever sell? It would surely be a hit in its home market, but I don't think it would not be particularly sought-after elsewhere… By Andrei Nedelea Story References: X-Tomi      |
| Judge Dismisses Google Glass Driving Ticket Posted: 17 Jan 2014 07:58 AM PST  You may remember the case of Cecilia Abadie, a California woman who was cited last October for speeding and driving while wearing Google Glass by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The highly publicized case went to court and a San Diego judge ruled that Abadie was not guilty for either charge. Commissioner John Blair stated that there was not enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the Google Glass device, which features a thumbnail-size transparent display above the right eye, was turned on while Abadie was driving the car. "There is no testimony it was operating or in use while Ms. Abadie was driving," he said during the hearing, according to a Chicago Tribune report. This is considered the first time someone has been cited for wearing the device while driving an automobile. Abadie also had her speeding ticket dismissed because an expert did not appear to court to testify on the calibration of the officer's speedometer. For those of you who wear Google Glass in your car, you need to keep in mind that the dismissal of the case does not give you a free pass nor does it set a precedent. CNN reported that Google Glass wearers behind the wheel of a car could still be pulled over and cited by a cop. "Whether they get a warning or a ticket will be up to the individual officer. Getting a charges dismissed will then be up to individual traffic court judges", said the report. ![Untitled-2[3]](http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nh2VkB3RQGI/UtlSzh0SogI/AAAAAAAP0NQ/ZO2Ri7SrSz8/s1600-h/Untitled-2%25255B3%25255D%25255B3%25255D.jpg "Untitled-2[3]")    |
| 1962 Alfa Romeo Giulia Spider Veloce 1600 is a Reminder of Italy’s Finest Posted: 17 Jan 2014 07:35 AM PST  While Alfa Romeo is gearing up (for the past…10 years) to become a global premium carmaker with the help of all-new products like the upcoming rear-wheel-drive Giulia sedan, it's good to take a trip back in time to see a bit of the Milan-based carmaker's fabulous heritage. In 1962, Alfa Romeo launched the Giulia sedan, along with the Giulia Sprint (coupe) and Giulia Spider (roadster). The latter two models were actually rebadged and updated versions of earlier Giulietta models, featuring 1.6-liter engines instead of 1.3-liter units. The Giulia Spider also had a performance version called Veloce (Italian for fast), and that's exactly the type of car featured in the latest episode from Petrolicious. The following video serves as a reminder of Alfa Romeo's special place in the history of the automobile, and it's also a pleasant way to find out what an automotive work of art like the Giulia Spider is like to own and to drive.    |
| Scoop: New Porsche Cayman GTS and Boxster GTS Caught Undisguised Posted: 17 Jan 2014 07:08 AM PST  We first came to learn about the upcoming GTS versions of the related Porsche Cayman coupe and Boxster roadster through a leaked dealer presentation document last September, and now, we can give the first camouflage-free photos of the two models. Much like the existing GTS variant of the Panamera saloon, the new editions of the Cayman and Boxster are based on their respective "S" models and will gain slightly more potent engines, chassis improvements and some limited styling revisions. In the spy shots, we can see the redesigned front bumper with re-trimmed and modified air channels, and at the back, a new rear diffuser. While the two testers were wearing 19-inch wheels with winter tires, the production cars will feature different 20-inch rims. Some minor upgrades to the interior trim and colors are also to be expected. The presentation document that surfaced online last year mentioned a humble 15hp bump for both cars, with the Cayman GTS rated at 340PS (335hp) and the Boxster GTS at 330PS (325hp), plus standard PASM damper control. The same paper said Porsche will host the world premiere of the two GTS models at the 2014 China Auto Show in Beijing this April with sales to kick off this summer. Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS                  |
| Callaway Ushers Out 2014 Corvette Stingray S610 Supercharged Tune Posted: 17 Jan 2014 06:36 AM PST  Can't wait for the new Corvette Z06 and its 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with over 625 ponies? No problem, as the aftermarket industry has you covered with Callaway releasing its S610 tuning program that promises to turn the regular 2014 Corvette Stingray into a…Z-like beast. At the heart of the tune is the addition of a supercharger that relies on an Eaton TVS four-lobe, high-helix rotor pack, with Callaway also meddling with the exhaust system to give the LT1 V8 a peak output of 610hp at 6,400 rpm and 556 lb-ft (753Nm) of maximum torque at 4,500 rpm, up from 455hp and 460 lb-ft (624 Nm). Callaway quotes a 0-60mph (100km/h) time of 3.4 seconds and the quarter mile in 11 seconds flat at an exit speed of 125mph (201km/h). The S610 package also adds embroidered floor mats, door sill panels, an underhood build plaque and a bespoke key fob, while there are plenty of optional parts to further enhance the look and performance of the C7, including a coil-over suspension, carbon fiber aero bits and different wheels.       |
| Seriously, Overload is a Huge Understatement with Public Bus in Cuba Posted: 17 Jan 2014 06:10 AM PST  After watching the following video, purportedly recorded in Cuba's capital city of Havana, you'll have a very good idea of what the phrase "packed like sardines" means when it comes to public transportation. People are literally pushed and shoved on each other to fit as many passengers as possible, with some even jumping through the side windows – forget about safety and other such trivial considerations… At least in Cuba, it's not like the people can go out and buy a car and avoid public transportation, even if the government supposedly liberalized the market. You see, four out of five people work for the state averaging just $20 a month when at the same time, the cost of vehicles is prohibitive, not only for Cubans, but even for your average Westerner in North America, Europe or Japan, as a subcompact model like the older generation Peugeot 206 retails for almost $80,000 (€58,000)!    |
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