Ferrari California - new production line

Production of the Ferrari California has commenced, and for the occasion a new assembly line has been inaugurated at Maranello. The program called “formula Uomo” (a play on words meaning “formula man”) started in 1997 and was designed to render the factory work more comfortable and streamlined for staff. A new futuristic restaurant has also been opened at the facilities.

In the meantime, the wait for the little one from Ferrari is becoming nervous and the photos and video are a terrible tease coming up to the Paris debut in October.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 in Brazil

Commanding one-two win for Volkswagen: At the Rally dos Sertões the factory duos Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz as well as Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford captured first and second place overall.

The Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 powered by a 280-hp TDI diesel engine thus managed a successful maiden race in Brazil. On the tenth and last leg from Mossoró to Natal, de Villiers/von Zitzewitz reached the finish on the Atlantic coast as the stage winners yet again, while Miller/Pitchford finished the stage in fourth place. All of the ten possible stage wins at this extremely varied and demanding rally across a total distance of 4,500 kilometres across Brazil thus went to the “Dakar” prototype from Wolfsburg. This overall victory and second-place finish increase the tally of the Race Touareg sporting the distinctive, blue Red Bull livery to nine overall wins and a total of 28 podium places at 23 races since 2004.

For Volkswagen, the Rally dos Sertões marked another step in its preparation for the 2009 Dakar Rally, which will lead through Argentina and Chile from 03 to 18 January. After the desert classic, the 10-leg rally across Brazil has been the second-longest for the Volkswagen squad, which ventured onto new territory in terms of the geographic location as well as from a sporting perspective. The cross-country rally through Brazil held new types of routes in store for both driver pairings and put drivers and co-drivers to the test with technically demanding terrain and difficult navigation. In addition to fast sections across service roads, slow, trial-like rocky passages and slippery mud, the rally’s profile featured extremely deep water passages. The highly demanding routes thus posed a new challenge for Volkswagen and the entire team.

After winning the prologue and clinching seven subsequent stage victories, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz took the overall lead from the outset, with the Volkswagen drivers competing against seasoned local rivals. With three stage wins and consistently high speed, Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford constantly maintained contact to their team-mates. However, due to a 48-minute time penalty after a delayed start to the penultimate special stage, they were deprived of the chance to fight a direct duel with them. Nevertheless, the advantage of the factory teams at the finish was significant: In the end, after 4,500 kilometres, overall winners de Villiers/von Zitzewitz were three, and runners-up Miller/Pitchford two hours ahead of the third-placed local Mitsubishi team Reinaldo Varela/Marcos Macedo.

© Source: germancarscene
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Ferrari at Tour Italy

Red Travel Italia has upgraded their Ferrari tours we first mentioned last year. At the wheel of the Ferrari of your choice - their new models include the 430 Scuderia F1, 599 GTB Fiorano F1, F430 Spider, and 612 Scaglietti F1 - you can tour regions such as Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio, and cities such as Milan, Rome, Florence and Naples, with five-star stops along the way.

Itineraries ranging from one to eight days are custom-tailored for a "subtle blend of art, gastronomy, fashion, architecture, and spectacular scenery." And now an assistant in an Alfa-Romeo will follow at a discreet distance to attend to your every need and make sure you don't get lost en route. Visit www.red-travel.com for more.

© Source: luxist
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2009 Porsche 911 Carrera & Carrera S Coupe & Convertible

(from Porsche Press Release) New Porsche 911 with Direct Fuel Injection and Double-Clutch Gearbox

Stuttgart. Starting on 5 July, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is introducing the next generation of the 911 model series. The four new models – two Coupйs and two Cabriolets – with classic rear-wheel drive offer an even higher standard of dynamic performance thanks to their all-new flat-six power units displacing 3.6 and, respectively, 3.8 litres. And the introduction for the first time of direct fuel injection on a Porsche sports car, together with the optional double-clutch gearbox Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK), makes the new 911 even more sporting and dynamic.

At the same time these new technologies enhance the already outstanding efficiency of the 911 to an even higher level than before: Featuring PDK, the Carrera Coupe offers outstanding fuel economy of 9.8 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 28.8 mpg imp. And with all new Carreras remaining significantly below the fuel consumption benchmark of 11 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 25.7 mpg imp, CO2 emissions are down by up to 15 per cent.

Maximum output of the 911 Carrera with its 3.6-litre power unit is up by 20 bhp to 345 bhp (254 kW). Output on the 911 Carrera S with its 3.8-litre power unit is equally impressive, up by 30 bhp to 385 bhp (283 kW). With this extra power, the Carrera S Coupй now offers a top speed of slightly over 300 km/h or 186 mph.

The new generation of the 911 is available for the first time with the new Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK), Porsche’s double-clutch gearbox. Offering no less than seven forward gears, the new gearbox combines the driving comfort of a converter automatic transmission with the dynamic gearshift of a sequential racing gearbox. And since PDK also boasts an automatic gearshift function, it replaces the former Porsche Tiptronic S automatic transmission on both the Carrera and Carrera S. Through its optimised and adaptive gearshift programs, PDK improves the car’s acceleration and reduces fuel consumption to a level even lower than before.

Porsche developed this gearshift principle featuring two clutches to shift gears without the slightest interruption of traction and pulling power and without even the slightest break in between gears no less than 25 years ago for motorsport. Porsche works drivers benefiting from this technology were able to accelerate faster than their competitors and keep both hands on the steering wheel while shifting gears, thus avoiding even the slightest distraction while shifting.

Prices start at Euro 69,600.- for the Carrera (Euro base price). The Carrera Cabriolet and Carrera S both retail at Euro 78,000.- (Euro base price), and the Carrera S Cabriolet is entering the market at Euro 88,000.- (Euro base price).

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Cobra Venom V8 Concept

(from Cobra Venom Press Release) True spiritual successor to the classic AC/Shelby Cobra has finally arrived.

Based in Surrey, UK, designer Jamie Martin is proud to reveal the new Cobra Venom V8 concept; a celebration of the great Anglo-American partnership that produced one of the most iconic racing cars of the last Century. With it's combination of unmistakable looks, raw performance and muscle-car spirit, the Cobra Venom V8 brings the power and charisma of the racing classic into the 21st Century.

Providing all of the the thrills that the name has made legend, a supercharged Ford V8 block offers projected performance figures of 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds, and a top speed of 214mph. The Cobra can once again proudly sit alongside the top marques of the World.

The original Cobra's story begins in the 1960's with the production of the Ace roadster by specialist Surrey-based British sports car company AC. Wanting to find a competitor for the Chevrolet Corvette, American ex-racing driver Carroll Shelby requested AC modify the Ace to accept a small block V8 engine, and the resulting car was re-named the Cobra. It was an instant success, and soon became a legendary race winner in both Europe and America.

When upgraded with bigger and more powerful engines, the Cobra became a fearsome and truly unbeatable racing car. Along with the mechanical alterations made to enable the original Ace to be fit for racing, the necessary bodywork alterations provided the Cobra with it's now unmistakable muscular appearance. The AC/Shelby Cobra has since become a true classic of the motoring world, as both a roadster and racing car - cementing it's iconic place in history.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Mazda3 – Next generation

The Mazda3 has been a compact darling ever since its introduction in 2004, and even though its current design is nearly five years old, it still wins many comparison tests. Since its near the end of a design cycle, a new Zoom Mazda is on its way, and some interesting renderings have been published online of what the new Mazda3 could look like.

The design theme is decidedly Mazda6-based up front, with similarly angled LED headlights and the same basic shape, but this unofficial Mazda3 is far more "in your face." The large front air dam looks more like something from the MazdaSpeed collection, and its large opening doubles as the Mazda3's grille. The side view features clean, flowing lines and the same basic shape as the current Mazda3 hatch. Out back, football-shaped LED tail lamps give this rendering a touch of class, and the similarly-shaped in-set dual exhaust looks like a concept-only touch. Due to the surprising success of the current model, the next Mazda3 has to be very, very good or it will be a big disappointment. If the next 3 looks as good as these renderings, we wouldn't be disappointed at all.

© Source: autoblog
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2008 Edo Competition Lamborghini Gallardo SLE

(from Lamborghini Press Release) With the modified Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera Edo Competition Motorsport has now added a second high-profile Italian racer to its tuning program after the Murcielago LP 640. Like its bigger brother, this sports car with the bull in its logo excels through its highlighted racing genes and more aggressive appearance after being modified at edo competition.

The most remarkable feature is the sensational acceleration. Edo Competition achieves these figures thanks to the installation of a massive air box, high flow catalytic converters which are a completely new design and a recalibration of the engine electronics. All components together raise the power output to 560 hp (411 kW) at 8,250 rpm. The power increase of 30 hp / 22 kW boosts the top speed by about 6 km/h (4 mph) to 320 km/h (199 mph). Another highlight: The sound volume of the modified exhaust system can be adjusted via remote.

The sporty concept of the Edo Gallardo Superleggera is rounded off with 19“ three-piece racing wheels with an artificially-aged cast center-section, hand-polished outer rims and 39 stainless steel screws.

The front wheels are shod in stock-sized or (on request) 245/35 ZR 19 rubber while 305/30 ZR 19 Dunlop Sport Maxx tires are used on the rear axle. With this solution Edo competition enables its customers to reuse the factory tires on their new wheels.

Edo Competition treats the masculine stance of the Gallardo Superleggera to an additional testosterone injection by lowering the suspension by a good 15 mm and through the use of corner-weighting. With these upgrades, the Lambo sticks to the road so firmly and unflappably that it would take an earthquake to upset its poise.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Holden Barina spied

The upcoming Holden Barina facelift has been spied on the streets of Sydney - and it looks very happy to say the least.

Recently released in Europe as the Chevrolet Aveo, the new Barina is the creation of General Motor’s Korean design team.

The exterior changes are more than obvious, sporting a completely new front end design with new headlights, grille and bumper.

The new Barina is expected to make its official Australian debut in the coming weeks.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Smart Fortwo 13 Contortionists

(from smart Press Release) Thirteen proves lucky for smart

How many people can you fit into a diminutive smart fortwo?

The amazing answer is 13 following a car cram staged to help celebrate smarts 10th anniversary. Owners and visitors to the annual smart Destination Brooklands event held at Mercedes-Benz World, the UKs leading automotive brand experience centre at Weybridge, were invited to take up the smart-packing challenge.

With the drivers and passengers of 1,200 smarts attending the event there was no shortage of potential participants but the winners proved to be the aptly-named smart car-tortionists, a group of body-bending specialists chosen for their gymnastic feats. They included Iona Luvsandorj, semi-finalist in this years Britains Got Talent TV series.

With remarkable flexibility, a total of 13 contortionists managed to climb aboard the micro smart which measures just 2.7 metres long by 1.6 metres wide, proving that the fortwo is small on the outside and big on the inside.

Said Iona afterwards: The interior of the smart is tardis-like and I think we exceeded the crowds expectations of how many people we could fit inside it.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Pontiac Vibe GT Review

The 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT doesn't win the statuette for enthusiasts' favorite in its category. That honor still belongs to the Mazda Mazda3, which has long delivered world-class driving dynamics that are unmatched in this price segment. Still, the Vibe GT's performance is incredibly engaging relative to most others in its class, and it trumps the 3 when it comes to cargo room and passenger space. The hardworking Pontiac Vibe GT deserves a starring role, but whether it's an ideal pick for you will depend on which attributes you value most in a wagon.

Paired with the optional five-speed automatic transmission, our Vibe GT test car's 2.4-liter engine powers the wagon from zero to 60 mph in an invigorating 8.9 seconds — a fairly impressive showing for its class. Around town, this willing engine makes the GT zippy and acquiescent, allowing it to easily finesse city and freeway traffic like a surfer on the crest of a righteous wave. The Vibe's transmission proves a capable match for this torquey inline-4.

At a combined 19.3 mpg, reported fuel economy is unimpressive, and dips below EPA estimates. Those estimates peg the 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT at 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. These numbers trail those achieved by competitors like the Mazda3 and Honda Fit, and mark the GT as somewhat of a laggard in this category.

The artificially low limits of its non-defeat stability control system serve to hamper the Vibe GT's performance in skid pad and slalom testing. On the skid pad, the wagon managed an unspectacular 0.75 g, with abundant body roll. On the slalom, its average speed was a lackluster 59.1 mph. However, our test-driver did note that while the Vibe feels tall through transitions, it never feels dangerous, as its limits are kept in check. When driven less aggressively around town, the GT's steering is reasonably responsive, and the wagon tackles corners with poise.

Pontiac's wagon offers ride quality that manages to be most things for most people. It's taut enough to satisfy those seeking some connection with the tarmac, but not so stiff as to put off those whose mandate is comfort.

© Source: edmunds
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2010 Saab 9-4 X spied

If you’re into the spy shot scene you may have noticed some earlier pictures of this car scattered on the web, but our European photographers have just gotten up close and were able to verify – 100% – the true identity of this masked prototype.

We first saw this bodystyle at the Detroit Auto Show, being touted at as the 9-4X BioPower Concept, but Saab is obviously serious about bringing this to the marketplace in a timely fashion.

Codenamed GMT168, the Saab 9-4X will arrive in time for the 2010 model year. Sharing the platform with the upcoming Cadillac BRX, the Theta-Epsilon based Saab will be built in at the Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico.

Unlike the U.S. based 9-7X, this will be sold globally. Styling – as you can easily see – will be very close to that of the concept, and powerplants will include a range of gasoline, as well as a new 250-horsepower diesel.

The 9-4X will also offer Saab’s XWD all-wheel-drive system.

© Source: caradvice
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BMW X5 hot news

This is the new big-mouthed X5 from Hartge, a firm world-renowned for its subtle tuning programmes for BMWs.

Like the Z3M Coupe or 1-Series, it's built with a whacking great 5.0-litre V8 under the bonnet.

The new car, nicknamed Road Runner, is based on the diesel X5 and features a new front spoiler, rear skirt and two-piece side sills.

A modified ECU 'performs absolute miracles', according to Hartge. By which we assume it means boosting power rather than turning diesel into wine.

The 3.0d goes up from 235bhp to 275bhp, while the torque increases from 384lb ft to 443lb ft. 0-60mph comes up in just under 7.4 seconds - a second quicker than the standard car.

A 30mm suspension drop and a set of 22-inch wheels complete the Hartge's mentalism, and if you really, must, honestly have one, it'll cost you around £60,000.

© Source: topgear
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2008 Hamann Porsche 911 Turbo Stallion

(from Hamann Press Release) A thoroughbred stallion with 630 horse powers: The HAMANN STALLION based on the Porsche 911 Turbo.

Like an Arabian stallion collecting its attention for a jump. Concentrated and full of dynamic body tension. This is how the silhouette of the super sports car called STALLION presents itself. But the latest development of the premium refiner HAMANN MOTORSPORT offers far more than a fascinating new aerodynamics concept. The efficiency boost to 630 hp and the HAMANN-sport chassis turn the STALLION into one of the most powerful and fastest sports car in the whole world.

The core of the Stallion is its modified engine. The Hamman motor technicians enhance the 3.6 litres Boxer Biturbo motor from standard 480 hp / 353 kW to 630 hp / 463 kW at 6,300 rpm. The upgrade also includes two larger VNT (variable nozzle turbochargers), a sport air strainer, a stainless steel exhaust system with metal catalytic converters and a new motor management.

These are measures which certainly hit their target. The Hamman Stallion accelerates to 100 km/h in only 3.3 seconds and is therefore six tenth of a second faster than its serial counterpart. The new maximum speed tag is sensational. With its efficiency boost and the reduced air resistance by Hamman -Aerodynamics, the Stallion achieves a maximum speed of 359 km/h.

Only the most precious materials can be found in the interior. Stallion The Hamman upholsterers only use selected leather for covering the fittings and sport seats. Aluminum gear shift and aluminum pedals make the cockpit gleam in a noble look and perfectly match with the carbon parts of the interior set. Precisely applied embroideries of the Hamman logo in the floor mats and headrests set further creative accents. All of these features complement one another in a stylish symbioses of motor sports flair and lifestyle.

© Source: seriouswheels
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$2 Million Motorcycle Auction

On 29 June, Bonhams would be auctioning off its astonishing compilation of classic bikes valued around $2 million at the Royal Air Force Museum in London. The collection details the largest single-owner collection of motorbikes ever reached the auction block, all 300 machines coming from the Professor Fritz Ehn Motorcycle Museum in Austria. The two wickedly fast and attention-inviting models include British-made Vincents: the 1955 998cc Black Prince and a 1952 998cc Black Shadow anticipated to fetch $56,000-$64,000 and $44,000 - $56,000 respectively.

Other highlights of the motorbikes include a 1935 Brough Superior 1,096cc 11-50hp, aka. The “Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles” as driven by T. E. Lawrence ($50,000 - $60,000); a 1927 BMW 500cc R47 ($36,000-$44,000); a 1937 Ariel 995cc Square Four Model 4G ($20,000-$24,000) adjoined by popularly known models by Harley Davidson, Ducati, Triumph and more. So, all you there with passion for antique and wheels shall rush now to invest their spare amount of dough by inking this neat deal.

© Source: elitechoice
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2008 ENCO 550 GT Biturbo based on Porsche Cayenne

(from ENCO Press Release) ENCO 550 GT Biturbo – Noble SUV based on the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.

The latest creation of the Saxon designer is the ENCO 550 GT Biturbo and is based on the face-lifted Porsche Cayenne. Precise craftsmanship and a perfected technology are the hallmarks of the masculine aerodynamics pack as well as the powerful motor acceleration. Striking, black lacquered XXL-rims enclose the boosted sport brake system which matches the advanced requirements.

The designer outfit makes the ENCO 550 GT Biturbo an eye-catcher on the road, and off-road as well. Accurate fabrication and perfect surfaces document the quality of the ENCO aerodynamic pack. Another component of the dynamic front is a far more sportive front apron with larger cooling slots. The very light bonnet which is strengthened by carbon has two slots, the “Powerdome” for additional fresh air supply for the front motor. The ENCO 550 GT Biturbo obtains its strong masculine accent by its broadened side wings. With its additional side spoiler the side body swells up to 1,999 mm. The ENCO rear spoiler with its integrated diffuser completes the superior appearance and makes space for the four stainless steel end pipes with its sonorous sport exhaust.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Dodge Zeo Concept Video

Dodge's entry in the 2008 Detroit Auto Show concept sweeps is the new ZEO, a concept that is perhaps the polar opposite of the Viper. The four-door, four-seat sport-wagon has the typical Dodge aggression but, like its partners this year, big eight- and ten-cylinder engines are out the picture. The ZEO is a battery EV with a claimed 250-mile range courtesy of a lithium ion battery pack. It will be interesting to see if this one is a runner like most Chrysler concepts or just a mock-up.


© Source: youtube
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This Weekend Astor Collection Auto Auction

Renowned entrepreneur and broadcast veteran Art Astor is selling off part of his famous car collection in Anaheim, California this weekend. The sale, conducted by RM Auctions, mainly features American cars with a few classic imports of the kind we're partial to thrown in. We're particularly fond of this 1970 Jaguar XKE Series II Roadster, for example, which with an estimate of only $40,000 - $60,000 is something of a bargain.

Also included in the sale: a 1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom I "Playboy" roadster which was used as a movie car and has been driven by Bette Davis and Robert Redford, est. $175,000 - $250,000; a 1968 Jaguar XKE Series I.5 2+2 Fixed Head Coupe, est. $30,000 - $40,000; a 1961 Jaguar XK150 3.8 Roadster, est. $80,000 - $120,000; a rare 1941 Chrysler Town & Country Nine-Passenger Estate "woody" wagon, est. $250,000 - $300,000; and a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster. est. $125,000 - $150,000. More info via: LiveAuctioneers.com.

© Source: luxist
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Burberry Maserati Quattroporte spotted in Saudi Arabia

The unison of Italian manufacturer, Maserati and the British fashion house Burberry could never be this hideous. But some stinky rich loser in Saudi Arabia with awful taste has plastered his Maserati Quattroporte in a Burberry plaid gift-wrap paper.

I thought that type of a print only went over fragrance cartons and Burberry handbags, but this dreadful magnum opus seeks to open new gates for future gruesome innovations. The Italian maker shouldn’t turn a blind eye to this horrid attempt at blemishing its scrupulously established reputation.

© Source: luxurylaunches
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United States vs Europe: The battle of car sales

The U.S is a very big car market, as is Europe, particularly Russia, Germany and the UK. I have gathered some sales figures for this year, from Europe and the U.S. during the first five months of the year (January - May) and compiled a list with the top 10 best selling vehicles from each side of the Atlantic. The results will start from the most popular model.

U.S:

Ford F-Series - 235,924

Toyota Camry - 198,309

Chevrolet Silverado - 197,030

Honda Accord - 166,158

Honda Civic - 164,994

Toyota Corolla - 152,308

Nissan Altima - 133,465

Chevrolet Impala - 122,281

Dodge Ram - 112,795

Ford Focus - 105,499

EU:

VW Golf - 208,800

Peugeot 207 - 204,379

Ford Focus - 176,698

Vauxhall/Opel Corsa - 174,667

Renault Clio - 162,816

Vauxhall/Opel Astra - 161,166

Ford Fiesta - 151,050

Fiat Punto - 151,050

Volkswagen Polo - 125,427

BMW 3-Series - 114,203

Related link:

Top 10 selling cars in Europe

BMW working on a larger SUV than the X5?

BMW may build its extra-large X7 SUV. The newcomer is suppose to rival the Mercedes GL-Class, which itself has proved fairly popular. Judging by the name, the X7 could be based off the 7 Series sedan, like the X5 is based on the 5 Series.

Sources within BMW are saying that the project is currently snoozing because BMW wants to see what happens with the U.S SUV market. At the moment, things aren't looking good as most customers are converting to more fuel efficient cars like the Honda Civic. This could make the German car-maker cancel the project.

The SUV segment is under extreme fire from environmentalists and generally anti-SUV groups, hence why the BMW X3, X1 and Mini SUV are arriving. The X7 would only work if alternative fuels like hydrogen and hybrid technology become more mainstream.

Train plows into a parked BMW 5 Series (Estonia)

At the moment, its unknown how this train rammed into a BMW 5 Series in Tallinn, Estonia. Whether is a human error or mechanical fault is anyone's guess. The fact is that this train that arrived to the Tallinn station in Estonia from Moscow, Russia, didn’t stop where it was supposed to. As you can see in these pictures, the train came to a halt just inches away from the Tallinn station building. The owner of the BMW 5-Series that was parked in front of the station wasn’t so fortunate as the train rammed the driver’s side of the car.

Skoda's receive low-rider treatment (Czech Republic)

A transporter carrying nine brand new Skoda vehicles hit a bridge connecting to two buildings in the Czech Republic, when its driver underestimated the height of the transporter and its good. From what we can tell, at least six of the nine Octavias and Fabias on board were in one way or another damaged.

Via Skodaoctavia

Man rigs fuel pump so friends can have free gas

Thanks to surging fuel prices, an unidentified man managed to unlock a gas pump at a Citgo station in Southern Florida, allowing his friends to steal an estimated 100 gallons of petrol. The thefts happened on Friday night, just after midnight and according to the owner of the petrol station Frank Veloso, seven cars managed to get away with free petrol. The owner believes that the man used a master key to open up the gas pump.

"It's not our fault that the prices of petrol have gotten so expensive, but now because of the expenses that we have to incur to protect ourselves, it only makes sense that we're going to have to raise prices even more," said Frank Veloso Jr., the owner's son.

In related news, the police have revealed an huge rise in the number of fuel thefts from cars, as petrol prices continue to soar. Petrol thefts have increased by an enormous 75% this year, with criminals siphoning fuel from other motorist’s tanks.

4 days ago, a farmer’s wife from County Durham died of a heart attack after her husband confronted a man who was stealing diesel from the couples farm.

Petrol now costs an average of 118p per litre but with diesel hitting 131p, the fuel siphoning gangs are targeting the tanks of large agricultural vehicles, and static tanks that farmers have on site.

A recent AA survey revealed that two out of three drivers plan to vote against Labour if petrol rises above £1.25 per litre. President of the AA Edmund King commented; “All political parties should remember that there are thirty-two million driving licence holders out there and most of them have the vote.”

The deepening crisis comes after PM Gordon Brown attended a fuel summit in Saudi Arabia where he argued for an increase in oil production to stem the rising costs of refined fuel.

13 people squeeze into a Smart ForTwo Brabus

Who said the Smart ForTwo was only for 2 people? Well, if there’s no need to drive, the ForTwo can actually fit 13 people. This was proven during the annual Smart Destination Brooklands event held at Mercedes-Benz World at Weybridge in the UK.

With more than 1,200 Smarts attending the event, there was no shortage of participants but the winning team was the ‘smart car-tortionists’, a group of body-bending specialists chosen for their gymnastic feats. The flexible ‘smart car-tortionists’ managed to squeeze 13 people. Just for the record, there were more women than men in the team.

This follows when a popular kids show back in 2006 managed to squeeze 25 kids into the previous ForTwo.

Daihatsu fan purchases entire line-up within 3 years (UK)

A big fan of the Japanese carmaker, John MacKay from Axminster, UK has managed to buy all four models of Daihatsu’s current line-up in 2 and a half years. It all started when Mr. MacKay and his wife came to pick up their new Copen Vivid roadster from a Daihatsu dealer. During the visit, the couple not only left with the Copen but they also placed an order for the Sirion hatchback.

1 and half years later, the Daihatsu loving duo replaced their Copen with a new Terios SUV in April 2007, they brought yet another Sirion. Finally, in March 2008, following his retirement from the army, Mr. MacKay purchased the latest model, the Scion-esque Materia MPV.

Nissan Maxima pricing announced (U.S)

Nissan has announced the pricing on its all-new, Maxima sedan. The flagship sedan is only offered exclusively with a 290 bhp 3.5-litre V6 engine that is mated with a CVT transmission.

The entry level 'S' model will start at $29,290, rising to $31,990 for the range-topping 3.5 SV.

If you like to accessorise your car, the Maxima is also available with a series of new option packages, including the Sport Package which is only available with the 3.5 SV. The Sports Package comes with sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, paddle shifters and more while the Premium Package, again only available with the range-topping 3.5 SV comes with dual panel sunroof, 7-inch color monitor with RearView camera, Eucalyptus wood-tone trim and more.

Related link:

Nissan Maxima production starts

Nissan starts 24 hour production at Sunderland plant (UK)

Nissan UK has announced plans to begin 24-hour production at its Sunderland factory. The 24hr production allows 800 new jobs to be created during the night-shift in the area and will allow Nissan to meet demand for its popular Qashqai crossover.

Extra capacity is needed at Sunderland to accommodate the forthcoming seven-seat variant of the Qashqai, when it launches in this August.

When production reaches maximum speed, Nissan says it will build 6100 Qashqais per week at the plant.

Production of the Micra, which is also built at Sunderland, will shift to China in 2010, but replacing the Micra at the plant will be a smaller crossover the sits below the Qashqai instead.

Related link:

Nissan announces new crossover

Smart ForTwo joins the police force (UK)

The Metropolitan Police will be fighting crime a Smart Electric Drive (ED) city cars from next month, as part of a new trial. Four police versions of the zero-emissions two-seater will be deployed on routine police patrols in central London and Heathrow airport.

The aim of the trial is to gather data about the Smart ED's performance in everyday life. The car is powered by a 41bhp electric motor, does a top-speed of 60mph and has a range of 70 miles. Police will then have to recharge the Smart ED's batteries from a standard three-pin plug.

This isn't the first time the police have used a Smart car on patrol. The City of London used the first generation of the city car as an emergency response vehicle in 2002. Local councils also controversially use Smart cars fitted with CCTV cameras to monitor central London streets. Dermot Kelly, managing director, Mercedes-Benz Cars, said, "This Smart ED market trial is an important part of our commitment to sustainable mobility".

Road deaths at all-time low (UK)

The number of people killed on British roads last year fell to an all-time low. Child deaths, which were down 20 per cent in 2007, were also at a record low of 121, the Department for Transport statistics showed.

Total fatalities in 2007 were 2,943 - 7 per cent lower than in 2006 - with deaths and serious injuries down in all categories of road user except motorcyclists. There were also fewer road accidents involving personal injury last year in figures that will hearten road safety campaigners.

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "These figures are extremely encouraging. They show that for the first time since records began in 1926 the number of people killed on our roads has fallen below 3,000.

"We've cut the number of people killed or seriously injured each year by more than a third since the mid-1990s. That means almost 17,000 fewer deaths or serious injuries on our roads last year.

"But these figures make us determined to do even more. Far too many people are still dying and we will continue to do everything we can to improve road safety and further reduce the numbers of people killed or injured."

Nissan FF Hybrid - rumours about sport car

With the reign of the Japanese sports car well and truly on track to make a return, new rivalries are appearing such as the new Honda NSX is to the Nissan GT-R.

The most recent and unique addition to this bitter rivalry is Nissan’s new FF Hybrid sports car - with the Honda CR-Z squarely in its sights.

An entry-level coupe to slot into the Nissan range just below the FR, the 2+2 front-wheel drive FF coupe will feature a hybrid drivetrain, aiming to be both fuel efficient and a spirited drive.

It will be based on the existing Nissan ‘B’ platform as used on the Tiida, and follow on from new styling trademarks established on both the new Maxima and upcoming 370Z.

Lightweight aluminium panels are likely to be used extensively to keep weight below 1100kg, and its possible a flat bottom panel similar to that on the GT-R could be employed to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

It’s expected the FF coupe will be powered by a revised hybrid version of the HR15DE 1.5-litre four cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed DSG gearbox.

© Source: caradvice
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2009 Toyota iQ spied

We first saw the Concept Car iQ at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show and were somewhat confused as to what Toyota was actually thinking. Nonetheless the Toyota iQ will go into production later this year. So it’s no surprise them to find it out and about being tested.

Toyota plans to complete with the Smart fortwo and take a chunk of the compact urban transportation market share.

However unlike the fortwo, the iQ has the capability to seat up to three passengers - and it’s less than three metres in length. Plus you can still fit a child or luggage.

Toyota has spent considerable engineering hours working this on out, but the company believes it will be a success and hailed as a breakthrough in space innovation.

© Source: caradvice
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STRUT BMW X5 Cologne

(from STRUT Site) STRUT BMW X5 Cologne Options

- Primary Grille

- Front Air Dam Intake

- STRUT Insignia

© Source: seriouswheels
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STRUT Chevrolet Tahoe Cheyenne

(from STRUT Site) STRUT Chevrolet Tahoe Cheyenne Options

- Primary Grille

- Lower Grille

© Source: seriouswheels
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