racepay.com http://racepay.com Car Racing Blog Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:01:00 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.7.1 en hourly 1 http://racepay.com http://racepay.com/wp-content/plugins/maxblogpress-favicon/icons/favicon-57.ico racepay.com Report: Detroit automakers head to Congress to talk Japanese, Korean currency manipulation http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-detroit-automakers-head-to-congress-to-talk-japanese-korean-currency-manipulation/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-detroit-automakers-head-to-congress-to-talk-japanese-korean-currency-manipulation/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:01:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/report-detroit-automakers-head-to-congress-to-talk-japanese-ko/ Filed under: , , , , , ,



We can't even pretend to know the first thing about currency manipulation, so we won't bother trying to explain how artificially depreciated currency can help imports into the U.S. market. But American manufacturing groups have long accused the governments of China, Japan and South Korea of manipulating their currency to gain an bigger foothold in the U.S. market, and domestic automakers say Japan and South Korea in particular have been artificially depreciating their currency for years. Earlier this month, The American Automotive Policy Council, which represents General Motors, Ford and Chrysler, met with Obama Administration auto task force head Ron Bloom about the manipulation of the Japanese yen and Korean won, and now the AAPC is talking with members of Congress.

A report from The Detroit News shows that Japan added $56 billion to a "currency interventions fund" last week - a fund that apparently has a substantial cash reserve. Further, Japanese Finance Minister Naoto Kan told the Japanese Diet that his government is ready to manipulate currency by depreciating the yen. The AAPC claims that the actions of the Japanese and Korean governments put American manufacturing jobs at risk, adding:

"American auto companies will consider intervention in foreign exchange rate markets by the Japanese government that weakens the yen as unfair competition directed at the American automotive market and American workers as the industry begins to recover from the economic recession."

The DetNews claims representatives from the Japanese government were not available to comment on the group's claims. For its part, AAPC says that the goal of meeting with Congress is action:

"we urge you to make clear to the governments of Japan and Korea that the U.S. Congress considers such interventions unacceptable and that any decision to proceed with or continue such interventionist policies will be strongly and directly challenged by the United States in defense of fairness and American jobs."

Another area of concern for the AAPC is what they allege is the inherently closed nature of Asian auto markets. The Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development claims that the two countries are currently the most closed out of the 30 markets with auto industries. The ECOD also notes that domestic automakers in those countries account for 95.5 percent of all auto sales.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Report: Detroit automakers head to Congress to talk Japanese, Korean currency manipulation originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , , , , , ,



We can't even pretend to know the first thing about currency manipulation, so we won't bother trying to explain how artificially depreciated currency can help imports into the U.S. market. But American manufacturing groups have long accused the governments of China, Japan and South Korea of manipulating their currency to gain an bigger foothold in the U.S. market, and domestic automakers say Japan and South Korea in particular have been artificially depreciating their currency for years. Earlier this month, The American Automotive Policy Council, which represents General Motors, Ford and Chrysler, met with Obama Administration auto task force head Ron Bloom about the manipulation of the Japanese yen and Korean won, and now the AAPC is talking with members of Congress.

A report from The Detroit News shows that Japan added $56 billion to a "currency interventions fund" last week - a fund that apparently has a substantial cash reserve. Further, Japanese Finance Minister Naoto Kan told the Japanese Diet that his government is ready to manipulate currency by depreciating the yen. The AAPC claims that the actions of the Japanese and Korean governments put American manufacturing jobs at risk, adding:

"American auto companies will consider intervention in foreign exchange rate markets by the Japanese government that weakens the yen as unfair competition directed at the American automotive market and American workers as the industry begins to recover from the economic recession."

The DetNews claims representatives from the Japanese government were not available to comment on the group's claims. For its part, AAPC says that the goal of meeting with Congress is action:

"we urge you to make clear to the governments of Japan and Korea that the U.S. Congress considers such interventions unacceptable and that any decision to proceed with or continue such interventionist policies will be strongly and directly challenged by the United States in defense of fairness and American jobs."

Another area of concern for the AAPC is what they allege is the inherently closed nature of Asian auto markets. The Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development claims that the two countries are currently the most closed out of the 30 markets with auto industries. The ECOD also notes that domestic automakers in those countries account for 95.5 percent of all auto sales.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Report: Detroit automakers head to Congress to talk Japanese, Korean currency manipulation originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-detroit-automakers-head-to-congress-to-talk-japanese-korean-currency-manipulation/feed/ Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 http://racepay.com/2010/03/scion-xb-restyled-and-repriced-for-2011/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/scion-xb-restyled-and-repriced-for-2011/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 22:29:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/scion-xb-restyled-and-repriced-for-2011/ Filed under: , , ,


2011 Scion xB - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Scion brand's poster car, the boxy xB, gets a freshened face for the 2011 model year, as well as some minor interior upgrades. Overall, the exterior changes give the econobox a more aggressive appearance - a good thing, since the second-generation xB wasn't appealing to the young, hipster crowd nearly as much as the automaker would have hoped. (We much prefer the first-generation car, for what it's worth.)

Up front, the revised fascia features slightly redesigned headlamps, as well as a honeycomb grille and larger outer vents on the bumper. Around back, the single rear backup lamp has been integrated into the taillamps, which cleans up the car's back end rather nicely. Other cosmetic changes include the addition of two new metallic paint colors - Army Rock and Elusive Blue.

Moving inside, the xB's front seats have been given more bolstering for better overall comfort and support. Additionally, a new center console has been added that offers better storage solutions, as well as a sliding armrest, and the steering wheel now offers with both tilt and telescope adjustments (a simple feature that we wish were standard fare on every make and model).

Pricing for the new xB starts at $16,000 for the manual transmission model and $16,950 if you prefer a conventional automatic - increases of $150 over the 2010 car. The 2011 xB will make its way to a Scion dealer near you later this month. Hit the jump to read Toyota's official press release, and click through our attached gallery to see dozens of high-res shots of the new xB.


Gallery: 2011 Scion xB


[Source: Scion]

Continue reading Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011

Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , , ,


2011 Scion xB - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Scion brand's poster car, the boxy xB, gets a freshened face for the 2011 model year, as well as some minor interior upgrades. Overall, the exterior changes give the econobox a more aggressive appearance - a good thing, since the second-generation xB wasn't appealing to the young, hipster crowd nearly as much as the automaker would have hoped. (We much prefer the first-generation car, for what it's worth.)

Up front, the revised fascia features slightly redesigned headlamps, as well as a honeycomb grille and larger outer vents on the bumper. Around back, the single rear backup lamp has been integrated into the taillamps, which cleans up the car's back end rather nicely. Other cosmetic changes include the addition of two new metallic paint colors - Army Rock and Elusive Blue.

Moving inside, the xB's front seats have been given more bolstering for better overall comfort and support. Additionally, a new center console has been added that offers better storage solutions, as well as a sliding armrest, and the steering wheel now offers with both tilt and telescope adjustments (a simple feature that we wish were standard fare on every make and model).

Pricing for the new xB starts at $16,000 for the manual transmission model and $16,950 if you prefer a conventional automatic - increases of $150 over the 2010 car. The 2011 xB will make its way to a Scion dealer near you later this month. Hit the jump to read Toyota's official press release, and click through our attached gallery to see dozens of high-res shots of the new xB.


Gallery: 2011 Scion xB


[Source: Scion]

Continue reading Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011

Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/scion-xb-restyled-and-repriced-for-2011/feed/ You’ll never guess which midsize sedan wins MT’s latest comparo… http://racepay.com/2010/03/youll-never-guess-which-midsize-sedan-wins-mts-latest-comparo/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/youll-never-guess-which-midsize-sedan-wins-mts-latest-comparo/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:55:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/youll-never-guess-which-midsize-sedan-wins-mts-latest-comparo/ Filed under: , , , , , , , ,



Ah yes, the good ol' midsize sedan. Bastion of the American family car set and holder of most automaker's sales crowns, as well as that of the best-selling automobile in the United States. As pointed out by Motor Trend, only three car nameplates have held the top sales spot in America in the last 20 years: the Ford Taurus, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

Of course, the current midsize sedan sales leader is none other than the aforementioned Camry. Unless you've been living under a rock for the last few months, you're certainly aware that Toyota has found itself in the hot seat with numerous claims of unintended acceleration and two separate recalls that are meant to deal with such safety defects.

Besides its recent safety woes, Toyota has had to deal with constant pressure from every other automaker seeking to dethrone the Camry as the midsize sales leader. So, the natural question is whether or not the segment stalwart can maintain its edge in the face of such stiff competition and a newly sullied reputation. MT sought the answer in its latest comparo.

These days, Ford's numero-uno midsize sedan is the Fusion, which was significantly redesigned this year, and that car won the coveted Motor Trend Car of the Year Award for 2010. Also new-for-2010 (as a 2011 model) are the Hyundai Sonata, which features swoopy new duds and a high-tech four-cylinder powertrain, and the Subaru Legacy, which is the only model in the segment to come standard with all-wheel drive.

Though not all-new for '10, the Chevrolet Malibu and Nissan Altima are certainly perennial power players in the midsize sedan segment, and as such were included in MT's comparison test. With introductions out of the way, who do you think could have grabbed the top spot in Motor Trend's comparison test of these seven leading midsize sedans? Hint: See the photo above. Suffice it to say... we were a bit surprised. Click here to see for yourself.

In related news, the boys from Inside Line have gone a slightly different route with a much smaller midsize sedan comparison, pitting the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2010 Mazda6 and 2010 Honda Accord together in a winner-takes-all fight. Click here for the results.

Do you agree with either MT or IL, or would you rank them totally differently? Have your say in 'Comments.'

[Sources: Motor Trend, Inside Line]

You'll never guess which midsize sedan wins MT's latest comparo... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , , , , , , , ,



Ah yes, the good ol' midsize sedan. Bastion of the American family car set and holder of most automaker's sales crowns, as well as that of the best-selling automobile in the United States. As pointed out by Motor Trend, only three car nameplates have held the top sales spot in America in the last 20 years: the Ford Taurus, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

Of course, the current midsize sedan sales leader is none other than the aforementioned Camry. Unless you've been living under a rock for the last few months, you're certainly aware that Toyota has found itself in the hot seat with numerous claims of unintended acceleration and two separate recalls that are meant to deal with such safety defects.

Besides its recent safety woes, Toyota has had to deal with constant pressure from every other automaker seeking to dethrone the Camry as the midsize sales leader. So, the natural question is whether or not the segment stalwart can maintain its edge in the face of such stiff competition and a newly sullied reputation. MT sought the answer in its latest comparo.

These days, Ford's numero-uno midsize sedan is the Fusion, which was significantly redesigned this year, and that car won the coveted Motor Trend Car of the Year Award for 2010. Also new-for-2010 (as a 2011 model) are the Hyundai Sonata, which features swoopy new duds and a high-tech four-cylinder powertrain, and the Subaru Legacy, which is the only model in the segment to come standard with all-wheel drive.

Though not all-new for '10, the Chevrolet Malibu and Nissan Altima are certainly perennial power players in the midsize sedan segment, and as such were included in MT's comparison test. With introductions out of the way, who do you think could have grabbed the top spot in Motor Trend's comparison test of these seven leading midsize sedans? Hint: See the photo above. Suffice it to say... we were a bit surprised. Click here to see for yourself.

In related news, the boys from Inside Line have gone a slightly different route with a much smaller midsize sedan comparison, pitting the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2010 Mazda6 and 2010 Honda Accord together in a winner-takes-all fight. Click here for the results.

Do you agree with either MT or IL, or would you rank them totally differently? Have your say in 'Comments.'

[Sources: Motor Trend, Inside Line]

You'll never guess which midsize sedan wins MT's latest comparo... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/youll-never-guess-which-midsize-sedan-wins-mts-latest-comparo/feed/ Report: NUMMI and UAW seeking closure through cash http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-nummi-and-uaw-seeking-closure-through-cash/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-nummi-and-uaw-seeking-closure-through-cash/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:27:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/report-nummi-and-uaw-seeking-closure-through-cash/ Filed under: , ,



Thanks to the hard work and solidarity of the United Auto Workers union, Detroit automakers have for years known that it is extremely expensive to offer early retirements, entice workers to walk away from their jobs or permanently close the doors at a plant. And even though NUMMI is an independent company, Toyota, too, is now fully aware of the financial pain involved in mothballing a factory for good. The Freemont, California NUMMI plant became expendable after General Motors cut ties with the company during its bankruptcy proceedings, leaving Toyota with more capacity than it needed.

A report from the Silicon Valley Mercury News indicates that the UAW and NUMMI have reached a tentative agreement on a separation package valued at $281 million, or about $60,000 for each and every member of the 4,700 worker plant. The original proposal was valued at $253 million, with $168 million for hourly workers and $85 million for salaried employees.

While $60,000 sounds like a king's ransom to simply walk away from a job, the number isn't as impressive when considering national unemployment at close to 10 percent. After all, it's not exactly as though there are plenty of quality manufacturing jobs out there - even when times are good.

With NUMMI scheduled to shutter on April 1, we can see why some workers are anxious to close the deal. NUMMI employee Scott MacMillan reportedly told the SVMN that workers are dissatisfied with the amount of information the UAW is giving workers, adding "that has caused a lot of frustration for the employees." NUMMI UAW workers are scheduled to vote on the separation package later today.

[Source: Silicon Valley Mercury News | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Report: NUMMI and UAW seeking closure through cash originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , ,



Thanks to the hard work and solidarity of the United Auto Workers union, Detroit automakers have for years known that it is extremely expensive to offer early retirements, entice workers to walk away from their jobs or permanently close the doors at a plant. And even though NUMMI is an independent company, Toyota, too, is now fully aware of the financial pain involved in mothballing a factory for good. The Freemont, California NUMMI plant became expendable after General Motors cut ties with the company during its bankruptcy proceedings, leaving Toyota with more capacity than it needed.

A report from the Silicon Valley Mercury News indicates that the UAW and NUMMI have reached a tentative agreement on a separation package valued at $281 million, or about $60,000 for each and every member of the 4,700 worker plant. The original proposal was valued at $253 million, with $168 million for hourly workers and $85 million for salaried employees.

While $60,000 sounds like a king's ransom to simply walk away from a job, the number isn't as impressive when considering national unemployment at close to 10 percent. After all, it's not exactly as though there are plenty of quality manufacturing jobs out there - even when times are good.

With NUMMI scheduled to shutter on April 1, we can see why some workers are anxious to close the deal. NUMMI employee Scott MacMillan reportedly told the SVMN that workers are dissatisfied with the amount of information the UAW is giving workers, adding "that has caused a lot of frustration for the employees." NUMMI UAW workers are scheduled to vote on the separation package later today.

[Source: Silicon Valley Mercury News | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Report: NUMMI and UAW seeking closure through cash originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-nummi-and-uaw-seeking-closure-through-cash/feed/ Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose… http://racepay.com/2010/03/video-this-truck-driver-has-got-something-on-his-nose/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/video-this-truck-driver-has-got-something-on-his-nose/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:59:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/video-this-truck-driver-has-got-something-on-his-nose/ Filed under: , , , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

Is this a highway or the set of a new Bruce Willis flick? What appears to be a cell phone-wielding cameraman has captured some timely highway footage of a truck driver hauling more than just a few dozen tons of potentially hazardous liquid. We have no idea how a vehicle, apparently a Renault Clio, could possibly find itself in such a precarious and perpendicular position, but we're even more puzzled as to how the truck driver could possibly pass other vehicles in traffic without noticing a 3,000 pound vehicle on its nose.

Assuming this is real and not some sort of staged stunt, we're sure hope the driver of the Clio escaped this unfortunate incident unharmed, because otherwise we would feel really guilty about the fact that we laughed at the fact that the brake lights were flashing on and off. Like that was going to do anything. Check out the video for yourself by hitting the jump. The video footage is admittedly less than great, but we feel the bizarre nature of the subject matter is worth a look.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose...

Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , , , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

Is this a highway or the set of a new Bruce Willis flick? What appears to be a cell phone-wielding cameraman has captured some timely highway footage of a truck driver hauling more than just a few dozen tons of potentially hazardous liquid. We have no idea how a vehicle, apparently a Renault Clio, could possibly find itself in such a precarious and perpendicular position, but we're even more puzzled as to how the truck driver could possibly pass other vehicles in traffic without noticing a 3,000 pound vehicle on its nose.

Assuming this is real and not some sort of staged stunt, we're sure hope the driver of the Clio escaped this unfortunate incident unharmed, because otherwise we would feel really guilty about the fact that we laughed at the fact that the brake lights were flashing on and off. Like that was going to do anything. Check out the video for yourself by hitting the jump. The video footage is admittedly less than great, but we feel the bizarre nature of the subject matter is worth a look.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose...

Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/video-this-truck-driver-has-got-something-on-his-nose/feed/ BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models http://racepay.com/2010/03/bmw-confirms-plans-for-front-wheel-drive-models/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/bmw-confirms-plans-for-front-wheel-drive-models/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:29:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/bmw-confirms-plans-for-front-drive-models/ Filed under: , ,



If there's one thing that's certain in this crazy world, it's that Ultimate Driving Machines are driven by their rear wheels. Sure, there's an occasional all-wheel-drive model thrown in for good measure, but even those revert to the tried-and-true RWD when extra traction from the front two contact patches isn't deemed necessary or desirable. Well, alert the media (oh, wait...): BMW has confirmed the rumors that it will build front-wheel-drive automobiles.

At the Annual Accounts Press Conference for 2010, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, had this to say:
[The small car] segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future.
Heresy, BMW fans? We wouldn't worry too much - there seems little chance that BMW will make a wholesale switch from powering the rear wheels to the fronts, especially for its mainstream models like the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series - but the addition of a FWD chassis will make it easier for the automaker to share platforms with other companies and to "reduce [its] fleet's carbon-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020."

In fact, take it from Reithofer himself:
BMW will continue to be a sport-inspired brand. We at the BMW Group continue to deliver maximum performance, tackle new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge.
Click past the break for the complete text of Reithofer's speach.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models

BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , ,



If there's one thing that's certain in this crazy world, it's that Ultimate Driving Machines are driven by their rear wheels. Sure, there's an occasional all-wheel-drive model thrown in for good measure, but even those revert to the tried-and-true RWD when extra traction from the front two contact patches isn't deemed necessary or desirable. Well, alert the media (oh, wait...): BMW has confirmed the rumors that it will build front-wheel-drive automobiles.

At the Annual Accounts Press Conference for 2010, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, had this to say:
[The small car] segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future.
Heresy, BMW fans? We wouldn't worry too much - there seems little chance that BMW will make a wholesale switch from powering the rear wheels to the fronts, especially for its mainstream models like the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series - but the addition of a FWD chassis will make it easier for the automaker to share platforms with other companies and to "reduce [its] fleet's carbon-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020."

In fact, take it from Reithofer himself:
BMW will continue to be a sport-inspired brand. We at the BMW Group continue to deliver maximum performance, tackle new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge.
Click past the break for the complete text of Reithofer's speach.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models

BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/bmw-confirms-plans-for-front-wheel-drive-models/feed/ Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC http://racepay.com/2010/03/video-tanner-foust-drifts-mulholland-drive-in-his-600-horsepower-scion-tc/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/video-tanner-foust-drifts-mulholland-drive-in-his-600-horsepower-scion-tc/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:58:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/video-tanner-foust-drifts-mulholland-drive/ Filed under: , , , ,


Tanner Faust tears up Mullholland Drive in his Scion tC - click above to watch the video

Look for the tire tracks. If you've ever been around drift cars, you know that with all that gumption, these beasts tend to break the tires loose. And when they cut loose, they leave synchronized patches of molten rubber in their wake. In the case of Tanner's NASCAR V8-powered Scion tC, we're talking about 600 horsepower and an equally crazy amount of torque. Probably to the wheels. Meaning that Tanner's car doesn't just burn rubber, the little Scion incinerates it.

Why are we harping on this point? Why are we encouraging you to watch the video looking for tire tracks? That's a tough question to answer without giving away the video, so we'll just say that despite being fully within the city limits of big, bad, mega-metropolis Los Angeles, Mulholland Drive is a pretty pristine place. Er, it was before Tanner Foust sunk his smoky, rubber claws into it. Make the jump to watch how great Top Gear USA could have been and read the press release.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC

Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , , , ,


Tanner Faust tears up Mullholland Drive in his Scion tC - click above to watch the video

Look for the tire tracks. If you've ever been around drift cars, you know that with all that gumption, these beasts tend to break the tires loose. And when they cut loose, they leave synchronized patches of molten rubber in their wake. In the case of Tanner's NASCAR V8-powered Scion tC, we're talking about 600 horsepower and an equally crazy amount of torque. Probably to the wheels. Meaning that Tanner's car doesn't just burn rubber, the little Scion incinerates it.

Why are we harping on this point? Why are we encouraging you to watch the video looking for tire tracks? That's a tough question to answer without giving away the video, so we'll just say that despite being fully within the city limits of big, bad, mega-metropolis Los Angeles, Mulholland Drive is a pretty pristine place. Er, it was before Tanner Foust sunk his smoky, rubber claws into it. Make the jump to watch how great Top Gear USA could have been and read the press release.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC

Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/video-tanner-foust-drifts-mulholland-drive-in-his-600-horsepower-scion-tc/feed/ 2011 Ford Mustang V6 to pace NASCAR race at Bristol http://racepay.com/2010/03/2011-ford-mustang-v6-to-pace-nascar-race-at-bristol/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/2011-ford-mustang-v6-to-pace-nascar-race-at-bristol/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:29:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/2011-ford-mustang-v6-to-pace-nascar-race-at-bristol/ Filed under: , , ,

2011 Ford Mustang V6 Pace Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

Historically, pace cars have been limited to the highest performing models of each brand. That's about to change this weekend when the new 2011 Ford Mustang V6 will serve as the pace car for NASCAR's Food Land 500 at Bristol International Speedway. This will be the second time a Mustang has paced a NASCAR race this year after the new 5.0-liter Mustang GT led the pack at the Daytona 500 in February.

Despite being the least powerful Mustang available for 2011, the V6 model will be more than capable of carrying out its duties thank to its new 3.7-liter engine and six-speed transmission. With 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, it should have no trouble setting the pace on Bristol's half mile oval. The budget pony car will undoubtedly be one of the most efficient pace cars in history as well, with the V6 officially rated at a record 31 mpg on the highway. You can see the new 2011 Mustang V6 pace car in action by tuning into Fox this Sunday at 1:00 pm EST.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6


[Source: Automobile Magazine]

2011 Ford Mustang V6 to pace NASCAR race at Bristol originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Ford Mustang V6 Pace Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

Historically, pace cars have been limited to the highest performing models of each brand. That's about to change this weekend when the new 2011 Ford Mustang V6 will serve as the pace car for NASCAR's Food Land 500 at Bristol International Speedway. This will be the second time a Mustang has paced a NASCAR race this year after the new 5.0-liter Mustang GT led the pack at the Daytona 500 in February.

Despite being the least powerful Mustang available for 2011, the V6 model will be more than capable of carrying out its duties thank to its new 3.7-liter engine and six-speed transmission. With 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, it should have no trouble setting the pace on Bristol's half mile oval. The budget pony car will undoubtedly be one of the most efficient pace cars in history as well, with the V6 officially rated at a record 31 mpg on the highway. You can see the new 2011 Mustang V6 pace car in action by tuning into Fox this Sunday at 1:00 pm EST.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6


[Source: Automobile Magazine]

2011 Ford Mustang V6 to pace NASCAR race at Bristol originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/2011-ford-mustang-v6-to-pace-nascar-race-at-bristol/feed/ U.S. Grand Prix to return to Indy? http://racepay.com/2010/03/us-grand-prix-to-return-to-indy/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/us-grand-prix-to-return-to-indy/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:01:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/us-grand-prix-to-return-to-indy/ Filed under:



During the Bahrain Grand Prix last weekend, Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone was quoted as saying that a return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway was under consideration. Not so fast, say spokesmen for the speedway, who say that while the facility is interested in bringing the U.S. Grand Prix back, talks are not currently taking place.

Since the first "American Grand Prize" was held in 1908, the United States Grand Prix has been staged at a wide variety of locations across the country, including Savannah, Milwaukee, Santa Monica, San Francisco, Riverside, Sebring, Watkins Glen and Phoenix, to say nothing of the individual races in Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit and Dallas, or the years when the Indy 500 counted towards the Formula One World Championship. But in between, there have been huge gaps: the race was not held between 1917 and 1957, 1981-'88 or 1992-'99.

After eight races held at Indianapolis between 2000 and 2007 - including a dismal showing in 2005 when Michelin boycotted the event leaving six cars on the grid - the race has been off the calendar for the past three years running. Automakers still competing in the series (following the recent withdrawals of Honda, Toyota and BMW) have been clamoring for a return, as have American racing fans, among them a good portion of the Autoblog team.

[Source: ESPN]

U.S. Grand Prix to return to Indy? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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During the Bahrain Grand Prix last weekend, Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone was quoted as saying that a return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway was under consideration. Not so fast, say spokesmen for the speedway, who say that while the facility is interested in bringing the U.S. Grand Prix back, talks are not currently taking place.

Since the first "American Grand Prize" was held in 1908, the United States Grand Prix has been staged at a wide variety of locations across the country, including Savannah, Milwaukee, Santa Monica, San Francisco, Riverside, Sebring, Watkins Glen and Phoenix, to say nothing of the individual races in Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit and Dallas, or the years when the Indy 500 counted towards the Formula One World Championship. But in between, there have been huge gaps: the race was not held between 1917 and 1957, 1981-'88 or 1992-'99.

After eight races held at Indianapolis between 2000 and 2007 - including a dismal showing in 2005 when Michelin boycotted the event leaving six cars on the grid - the race has been off the calendar for the past three years running. Automakers still competing in the series (following the recent withdrawals of Honda, Toyota and BMW) have been clamoring for a return, as have American racing fans, among them a good portion of the Autoblog team.

[Source: ESPN]

U.S. Grand Prix to return to Indy? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> http://racepay.com/2010/03/us-grand-prix-to-return-to-indy/feed/ Report: Congressmen spending thousands of dollars a month to lease ordinary vehicles http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-congressmen-spending-thousands-of-dollars-a-month-to-lease-ordinary-vehicles/ http://racepay.com/2010/03/report-congressmen-spending-thousands-of-dollars-a-month-to-lease-ordinary-vehicles/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:29:00 +0000 admin http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/report-congressmen-spending-thousands-of-dollars-a-month-to-lea/ Filed under: , , , ,



Remember when Congress got all up in the grilles of Detroit automaker chief executives for traveling to Washington in luxury courtesy of the companies private jets? It appears our lawmakers are less than perfect when it comes to sourcing their own cost-effective transportation, as Politico is reporting that at least 10 members of the House of Representatives have monthly vehicle leases that exceed $1,000 per month in taxpayer money.

But those leases, they're for specialized, bulletproof SUVs to keep our elected officials safe, right? Well, not so much. A little digging from Politico shows that members of Congress just don't know how to shop around. Of the top five lease prices listed, the most exorbitant monthly outlay at least appears to come with the best excuse. Missouri Democrat Emanuel Cleaver pays a reported $2,900 a month for a mobile office equipped with wifi and a wheelchair lift. Representative Cleaver justifies the hefty price tag by arguing that he uses the vehicle as his mobile office, foregoing the off-site office many other representatives have. Oh, and the mobile office runs on used cooking oil.

Other congressmen have less credible excuses, but it apparently isn't stopping them from giving it the old college try. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas) $1,628 to lease a GMC Yukon. Reyes blames short lease terms and fuel efficiency regulations on the high lease prices. Meanwhile, we suspect that every other American with decent credit can choose from dozens of CUVs or SUVs with 24-month leases for less than $600 per month.

Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick (D-Mich.) rolls in a $1,230 per month Chevrolet Tahoe. A spokesperson for Cheeks Kilpatrick claims the 13th District rep. leases the vehicle because General Motors headquarters resides within her district. Ironically, Cheeks Kilpatrick's son, Kwame Kilpatrick, the former Detroit mayor who left office in disgrace after being found guilty of perjury, caught plenty of flack a few years back for spending $1,000 per month for a taxpayer-funded Lincoln Navigator.

Rep. Harry Teague (D-N.M.), reportedly worth more than $36 million dollars, pays $1,266 per month for a Chevrolet Malibu. That's right, folks, a Malibu. Not a bad vehicle by any stretch, but $1,266 per month? Really? Other high lease offenders include Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.), who rides in a $1,259 per month hybrid Toyota Highlander, Rep. Lacy Clay (D-Mo.), who trolls the St. Louis streets in $1,059 a month Ford Escape hybrid and Rep. Paul Kanjorski (D-Pa.) with his $1,026 per month Mercury Mariner hybrid. Not to be left out, Rep. Sam Johnson (R-Texas) apparently also spends $1,143 every month for an unspecified leased vehicle, and multimillionaire Rep. Gary Miller (R-Calif.) leases a Lexus RX400h for $843 taxpayer-funded dollars a month, reportedly arguing that he needs the vehicle's bigger accomodations because he's over six-feet tall and has to make an hourlong commute twice a week.

Head over to Politico to read more about congress and the expensive vehicles they lease on your dime. We're thinking there are thousands of Autoblog readers who can help their congressmen procure a more cost effective lease vehicle than some of the ridiculous prices you just read about. Any volunteers?

[Source: Politico]

Report: Congressmen spending thousands of dollars a month to lease ordinary vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Filed under: , , , ,



Remember when Congress got all up in the grilles of Detroit automaker chief executives for traveling to Washington in luxury courtesy of the companies private jets? It appears our lawmakers are less than perfect when it comes to sourcing their own cost-effective transportation, as Politico is reporting that at least 10 members of the House of Representatives have monthly vehicle leases that exceed $1,000 per month in taxpayer money.

But those leases, they're for specialized, bulletproof SUVs to keep our elected officials safe, right? Well, not so much. A little digging from Politico shows that members of Congress just don't know how to shop around. Of the top five lease prices listed, the most exorbitant monthly outlay at least appears to come with the best excuse. Missouri Democrat Emanuel Cleaver pays a reported $2,900 a month for a mobile office equipped with wifi and a wheelchair lift. Representative Cleaver justifies the hefty price tag by arguing that he uses the vehicle as his mobile office, foregoing the off-site office many other representatives have. Oh, and the mobile office runs on used cooking oil.

Other congressmen have less credible excuses, but it apparently isn't stopping them from giving it the old college try. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas) $1,628 to lease a GMC Yukon. Reyes blames short lease terms and fuel efficiency regulations on the high lease prices. Meanwhile, we suspect that every other American with decent credit can choose from dozens of CUVs or SUVs with 24-month leases for less than $600 per month.

Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick (D-Mich.) rolls in a $1,230 per month Chevrolet Tahoe. A spokesperson for Cheeks Kilpatrick claims the 13th District rep. leases the vehicle because General Motors headquarters resides within her district. Ironically, Cheeks Kilpatrick's son, Kwame Kilpatrick, the former Detroit mayor who left office in disgrace after being found guilty of perjury, caught plenty of flack a few years back for spending $1,000 per month for a taxpayer-funded Lincoln Navigator.

Rep. Harry Teague (D-N.M.), reportedly worth more than $36 million dollars, pays $1,266 per month for a Chevrolet Malibu. That's right, folks, a Malibu. Not a bad vehicle by any stretch, but $1,266 per month? Really? Other high lease offenders include Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.), who rides in a $1,259 per month hybrid Toyota Highlander, Rep. Lacy Clay (D-Mo.), who trolls the St. Louis streets in $1,059 a month Ford Escape hybrid and Rep. Paul Kanjorski (D-Pa.) with his $1,026 per month Mercury Mariner hybrid. Not to be left out, Rep. Sam Johnson (R-Texas) apparently also spends $1,143 every month for an unspecified leased vehicle, and multimillionaire Rep. Gary Miller (R-Calif.) leases a Lexus RX400h for $843 taxpayer-funded dollars a month, reportedly arguing that he needs the vehicle's bigger accomodations because he's over six-feet tall and has to make an hourlong commute twice a week.

Head over to Politico to read more about congress and the expensive vehicles they lease on your dime. We're thinking there are thousands of Autoblog readers who can help their congressmen procure a more cost effective lease vehicle than some of the ridiculous prices you just read about. Any volunteers?

[Source: Politico]

Report: Congressmen spending thousands of dollars a month to lease ordinary vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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