Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[LA 2009: Toyota debuts its plug-in Prius for North America]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-prius-plug-in-hybrid-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-prius-plug-in-hybrid-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-prius-plug-in-hybrid-los-angeles-2009/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,


Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota rather unceremoniously parked their plug-in Prius hybrid prototype at its North American market debut during the LA Auto Show, while their new Sienna minivan got a royal welcome at its coming out party. At a show that saw the production-ish Chevrolet Volt appearing in public for the first time, it might have seemed likely that Toyota would have made a bigger deal of this model, but we just sort of stumbled upon it while checking out its big brother, the Lexus LFA.

The company did issue a press release, which you can read in its entirety after the jump. In it, they announce that a global demonstration program will start this month in Japan and that the first batch of 500 Lithium-Ion batteries for those vehicles is moving down the assembly line as we speak. The 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive package but adds their first generation lithium-ion battery so it can go all-electric further and more quickly than a traditional hybrid. The electric-only range is just 13 miles, but the Prius PHEV will be able to run all the way up to 60 mph in electric-only mode.

Beyond that, the plug-in Prius reverts to regular hybrid mode with the gas engine and electric motor trading off depending on load and demand. The gas engine is important on this Prius PHEV and cars like the Volt because it lessens the "range anxiety" drivers might feel in a pure electric - That uneasiness that comes from thinking you could be stranded when the batteries run down.

Japan and Europe split the first batch of 350 vehicles, but early next year, the next 150 examples are coming Stateside. These first PHEV vehicles will serve as a test program for real world driving needs, kind of like the MINI E program going on right now. Toyota has already announced that Boulder, CO is going to be the first community to get some of these plug-in hybrids - a surefire way for Toyota to see how cold temps affect battery performance. You can read the rest of the presser after the jump and there's a gallery available by clicking any image below.


Gallery: LA 2009: The plug-in Prius


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading LA 2009: Toyota debuts its plug-in Prius for North America

LA 2009: Toyota debuts its plug-in Prius for North America originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowplug inplug in hybridplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in priusPlug-inHybridPlug-inPriuspluginPlugInHybridtoyota priustoyota prius hybridtoyota prius plug intoyota prius plug in hybridToyota Prius plug-inToyotaPriusToyotaPriusHybridToyotaPriusPlug-inToyotaPriusPlugInToyotaPriusPlugInHybrid Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Mazdaspeed2 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

As cool as some of those custom Ford Fiestas are at the LA Auto Show, these even tidier Mazda2 customs really jumped out at us. Okay, maybe not all of the concepts so much as the "Mazdaspeed2" you see above. The Active2 Surf and Active2 Snow barely registered when we saw this green and grey fun machine. Dubbed the 2Evil Special and not really an official Mazdaspeed2 at all, this concept blends weekend track car with urban commuter in just the right proportions.

The other two concepts aren't quite as eye-catching as the 2Evil, but are fun nonetheless. The Active2 Surf has a slightly restyled exterior, 17-inch wheels, an H&R coil over suspension and was painted a bright green with MINI-like white wheels and mirror caps. We really dug the carbon fiber surfboard in the Thule roof rack, too. The Active2 Snow gets similar bodywork tweaks, along with the 17-inch wheels and the H&R setup with another Thule roof rack sporting matching snowboards.. Both cars also wear Active2 graphics. These two cars look like they are going to be easily duplicated by accessing the Mazda Accessories catalog.

Meanwhile, the 2Evil sits even lower thanks to its H&R coil-over setup, and is visually lowered even more courtesy of the aggressive body kit with its curb-scraping front lip and deep side skirts. The 2Evil also includes a new diffuser and spoiler in the back, limo-black windows, Le Mans-winning Mazda 787B tribute graphics, 17-inch wheels wrapped in Yokahama Advan tires, and a Magna performance exhaust system. The green highlights really bring the whole thing together to make it look like a spec series racer. Now if Mazda could just shoehorn in the Mazdaspeed3 turbo mill, they'd really be onto something. We can just imagine Grand-Am adding a CC (commuter car) class for fun little runabouts like this Mazda2, the MINI Cooper, Fiesta, Fiat 500, Honda Fit and the like.


Gallery: LA 2009: Custom Mazda2 Concepts


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA

LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2Evil2Evil Special2evilSpecialActive2Active2 SnowActive2 SurfActive2SnowActive2Surfla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowmazdamazda2mazdaspeed2 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST <![CDATA[Ford accepting applications for Fiesta Movement 2]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ford-accepting-applications-for-fiesta-movement-2/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ford-accepting-applications-for-fiesta-movement-2/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ford-accepting-applications-for-fiesta-movement-2/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2011 Ford Fiesta - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford finally unveiled the U.S. version of its B-Segment Fiesta yesterday at the LA Auto Show, and thanks to some clever marketing, the Blue Oval's newest small car is already well-known to prospective buyers. Ford's ingenious "Fiesta Movement" marketing initiative, which put 100 Euro-spec subcompacts in the hands of socially advanced "agents," resulted in over six million YouTube views, 740,000 Flickr views and 3.7 million Twitter impressions. All that traffic has apparently resulted in a 60-percent vehicle recognition score in Ford's survey findings - a number that would be good for a vehicle that has already been on the market a few years.

The first Fiesta Movement was created to get the Fiesta in front of the car-buying public while engaging in customer-driven dialog. Connie Fontaine, Ford brand content and alliances manager, says that wave two will focus on "driving unparalleled consideration." In other words, Ford wants customers to be excited to buy a new Fiesta. Given the fact that Ford generated 80,000 "hand-raisers" with Fiesta Movement number one, another group of Fiesta agents probably isn't a bad idea.

Ford is looking now for 20 teams of agents to participate in getting the word out about its new small car. Interested parties can apply via video on fiestamovement.com between now and January 31. Round two begins in mid-February. Winning contestants will need to be "socially vibrant" and "in-tune with the latest happenings in their neighborhood." Winners will be chosen based on public reaction to their video presentations... though it probably wouldn't hurt to look young and Millenialish. Hit the jump to check out Ford's official press release.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Ford Fiesta


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford accepting applications for Fiesta Movement 2

Ford accepting applications for Fiesta Movement 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 ford fiesta2011FordFiestafiestafiesta movementfiesta movement marketing campaignFiestaMovementFiestaMovementMarketingCampaignfordFord FiestaFordFiestaus spec fiestaUsSpecFiesta Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:28:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the LA Auto Show this morning, the Audi A3 TDI was crowned the 2010 Green Car of the Year, wresting the title away from last year's winner, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Even though three hybrids made this year's list of finalists, the A3's win marks the second year in a row that a TDI diesel car took top honors in the Green Car Journal competition.

The judges selection kind of meshes with AutoblogGreen readers, who overwhelmingly picked the VW Golf TDI from the list of five finalists. The other contenders were the Honda Insight, the Mercury Milan Hybrid (we still don't get why this car beat out the better-selling and nearly identical Ford Fusion Hybrid) and the Toyota Prius.

Each year, Green Car Journal picks the five finalists and then hands over selection duties to celebrity jurors (Jay Leno, Carroll Shelby, and the Sierra Club's Carl Pope, to name a few). During the award ceremony, Green Car Journal editor Ron Cogan said that the five finalists are notable because they are all mainstream vehicles that are available today. They exist because that's what the market is asking for. Whaddya think? Is the A3 TDI this year's rightful Green Car of the Year?


Gallery: Audi A3 TDI - 2010 Green Car of the Year


[Source: Green Car Journal]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat

LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2010 audi A32010 Audi a3 tdi2010AudiA32010AudiA3Tdia3a3 tdiA3Tdiaudiaudi a3audi a3 tdiaudi dieselAudiA3AudiA3TdiAudiDieseldieselgreen cargreen car journalgreen car of the yearGreenCarGreenCarJournalGreenCarOfTheYearla 2009la auto showla showla2009LaAutoShowLaShowlos angeleslos angeles 2009LosAngelesLosAngeles2009tdi Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST <![CDATA[Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Geek Squad i-MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

While Mitsubishi didn't unveil any new vehicles at the LA Auto Show today, company president Osamu Masuko did announce the latest step in his company's plan to bring plug-in vehicles to North America. The vehicle - well, one of them - is an all-electric i-MiEV plastered with Best Buy's Geek Squad logo. The electronics giant will start using them in January (after they're shown off at CES) at some Geek Squad locations in California. Details have not yet been totally worked out, but the Geek EVs will start with a fleet of four vehicles and then expand and rotate to other stores over the course of three years. Most likely, the i-MiEVs will be doled out in pairs and the probable early cities where these vehicles will make house calls include Chicago, New York, Portland and San Francisco.

Best Buy plans to use the i-MiEVs just like any other fleet car, with the exception that they will be right-hand drive. Best Buy's Senior Vice President of emerging business, Rick Rommel, told AutoblogGreen that the idea is to learn "how these will fit into a Geek's daily life." The plug-in vehicle tests with Geek Squad are unrelated to how select West Coast Best Buy stores are selling electric bikes. That said, Rommel admits that the key thing is that Best Buy likes to conduct new experiments, and these EVs fit into that general concept.


Gallery: Best Buy Geek Squad i-MIEV


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowbest buybest buy electric vehiclesbest buy evsBest Buy Inc.Best Buy StoresBestBuyBestBuyElectricVehiclesBestBuyEvsBestBuyInc.BestBuyStoresGeek SquadGeekSquadi-mievimievla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowlashow2009mievmitsumitsubishimitsubishi imievMitsubishiImievosamu masukoOsamuMasukoPX-MiEVrick rommelRickRommel Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:58:00 EST <![CDATA[UPDATE: U.S. bound Mitsubishi Colt will be an all-new global small car]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/breaking-u-s-bound-mitsubishi-colt-will-be-an-all-new-global-s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/breaking-u-s-bound-mitsubishi-colt-will-be-an-all-new-global-s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/breaking-u-s-bound-mitsubishi-colt-will-be-an-all-new-global-s/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Yesterday, we reported that Mitsubishi is bringing its small, B-segment Colt to our shores. And that's true, mostly. What we've learned between now and then is that Mitsu isn't bringing over the current Colt, but rather the replacement for the current Colt, i.e. the next Colt. In fact, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. President Osamu Masuko said as much during last month's Tokyo Motor Show. Here's what he told Automotive News:
"Mitsubishi will follow that with a global small car in 2012. That car will be smaller than the Colt, which is sold in Japan and Europe, and will have a 1.0- to 1.3-liter gasoline engine. A plug-in hybrid version and all-electric version of the global small car are scheduled for 2013. Mitsubishi is studying which of those would best suit the United States.
The scoop, then, is that this new global small car will be called Colt. As opposed to say, Havasu.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

UPDATE: U.S. bound Mitsubishi Colt will be an all-new global small car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ColtLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowmitsuMitsubishiMitsubishi ColtMitsubishi Global Small CarMitsubishiColtMitsubishiGlobalSmallCarOsamu MasukoOsamuMasuko Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

So often, the tag of "Special Edition" comes with a not-so-special price increase. Fortunately for Subaru fans, the newly-introduced Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is actually less costly. At $32,995 it's actually $2,000 cheaper than the base price of the standard STI.

Of course, buyers of the Special Edition will have to go without certain features, namely HID headlights, premium audio, and automatic climate control. It's not just a de-contented package, though, as the car also comes with the suspension from the spec C model in Japan that includes a thicker rear stabilizer bar, stiffer bushings and stiffer springs.

Initially, each car will be painted in Aspen white with the charcoal-colored 14-spoke wheels also cribbed from the spec C. Just 125 examples will be built in the first quarter of 2010, although Subaru says that more will be available later in the year in additional colors. High-res gallery below, pricing press release available after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive

LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 subaru2010 subaru impreza wrx sti2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition2010 subaru STI2010 subaru wrx2010 subaru WRX STI2010Subaru2010SubaruImprezaWrxSti2010SubaruImprezaWrxStiSpecialEdition2010SubaruSti2010SubaruWrx2010SubaruWrxSti2011 subaru wrxla 2009la auto showla showLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSpec CSpecCsti special editionStiSpecialEditionSubaruSubaru ImprezaSubaru Impreza WRXSubaru Impreza WRX Limited EditionSubaru Impreza WRX STISubaru Impreza WRX STI Special EditionSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxSubaruImprezaWrxLimitedEditionSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruImprezaWrxStiSpecialEditionwrxwrx stiWRX STI Spec cwrx sti special editionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEdition Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[2011 Ford Fiesta priced from $13,320, special deal for reserving early]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-ford-fiesta-pricing-sedan-hatchback/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-ford-fiesta-pricing-sedan-hatchback/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-ford-fiesta-pricing-sedan-hatchback/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2011 Ford Fiesta - Click above for high-res image gallery

Surprisingly, Ford decided to slip out U.S. pricing for its hotly anticipated 2011 Fiesta with no fanfare at all. No major announcements at the LA Auto Show, no wordy press releases... nothing. But, if you head on over to Ford's official page for the new Fiesta, you'll see that it starts at $13,320 (plus a $675 destination charge).

Even better, the full Build and Price section is available, meaning you can see each and every individual option and its price. We went ahead and spent some time perusing the options list, and we see that the low base price is for the base S model, which comes exclusively in sedan form. The least expensive hatchback model is $15,120 (about $800 more than a comparably-equipped sedan).

Step up to a hatchback with Ford's new six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and you're looking at $16,190, and the uprated SES hatchback starts at $17,120 ($18,190 with the auto). Click past the jump for more interesting little tidbits that we noticed when pricing out our own Fiestas, including what Ford is offering for reserving one early.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Fiesta

Continue reading 2011 Ford Fiesta priced from $13,320, special deal for reserving early

2011 Ford Fiesta priced from $13,320, special deal for reserving early originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 Fiesta2011 fiesta price2011 ford fiesta2011 ford fiesta msrp2011Fiesta2011FiestaPrice2011FordFiesta2011FordFiestaMsrpfiestafiesta msrpfiesta pricefiesta pricingFiestaMsrpFiestaPriceFiestaPricingfordford fiestaford fiesta msrpford fiesta priceFordFiestaFordFiestaMsrpFordFiestaPrice Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Mini owns its inner Bulldog]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mini-owns-its-inner-bulldog/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mini-owns-its-inner-bulldog/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mini-owns-its-inner-bulldog/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Leashed Mini Cooper S Clubman - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mini may be many things, but stuffy they're not. When your business consists of selling tiny hatchbacks with sports car handling at a near luxury price, you really can't take yourself too seriously all the time. Mini ad campaigns have capitalized on that cheeky spirit to great effect. While at the LA Auto Show this week, we were treated to a preview of some of the newest commercials that will be getting airtime soon. Rest assured, the attitude is still there in abundance.

A good example of that spirited personality is the car you see here. Playing on the old Mini's Bulldog alter ego, the automaker has chosen to put this new Cooper S Clubman on a leash...with a spiked collar. Seriously. And they even went step further with some funny warnings painted into the danger hash marks on the floor around it. We can't think of many other car companies that could pull this off, but on a Mini, that collar actually looks amusingly good. We've got more high-res pics in the gallery that can be unleashed by clicking below.


Gallery: LA 2009: Leashed MINI Cooper S Clubman


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2009: Mini owns its inner Bulldog originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bad miniBadMinibulldogla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowleashed miniLeashedMiniminimini bulldogmini cooperMini Cooper Clubmanmini leashedMiniBulldogMiniCooperMiniCooperClubmanMiniLeashed Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:39:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Ford shows off some Fiesta possibilities]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-ford-shows-off-some-fiesta-possibilities/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-ford-shows-off-some-fiesta-possibilities/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-ford-shows-off-some-fiesta-possibilities/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2011 Ford Fiesta by Ford Custom Accessories - Click above for high-res image gallery

While introducing the folks at the LA Auto Show to the American-market 2011 Ford Fiesta, Ford decided to go a step further. They didn't just show the production sedan and hatchback, they also showed off the possibilities the platform presents as well. They had four customized Fiestas on display, done up by companies like H&R, 3dCarbon, FSWerks, and Steeda, as well as Ford's in-house Racing and Custom Accessories team. And just for good measure, they also brought along that wicked Kenny Brack X-Games Rally Fiesta as well.

There's a full press release after the jump, but here is a brief summary of the four featured vehicles:

Black Fiesta:

This car was put together by Ford Racing and Steeda Autosports. It features Steeda's cold air intake, a Borla/Ford Racing Performance cat-back exhaust system, Steeda/Ford Racing suspension upgrades, Ford Racing multi-spoke Euro wheels and Brembo anchors.

Blue Fiesta:

The blue car was built by H&R Special Springs. Naturally, it received some suspension tuning with an H&R Street Performance monotube coil-over kit and a set of spiffy 18-inch OZ SuperTurismo GT wheels. It's also the beneficiary of some Euro reverse-engineering via "Sticky Jewell custom graphics, custom Euro hood vents, stealthy blacked-out headlamps and a Ford Custom Accessories upper rear hatch spoiler."

White Fiesta:

The white Fiesta (above) features Ford Custom Accessories, so it ought to be the easiest model the Average Joe to copy. Nearly every styling element can be purchased from the Ford Custom Accessories, Ford Licensed Accessories or Ford Racing Performance Parts catalogs. And get used to those graphics, because Ford has taken this opportunity to add a whole new line of them for the Fiesta. You can see the whole collection at fordfiestagraphics.com.

Red Fiesta:

Last, but certainly not least, is the red Fiesta by 3dCarbon and FSWerks. It's the only one of the four that has some serious rejiggering underhood. It features an FSWerks Stage 2 intercooled turbo kit and 2.25-inch exhaust system. It also sports a 3dCarbon body kit with an "aggressive front air dam, aerodynamic side skirts and rear lower accent trim."

We'd probably mix and match among these mods, perhaps the H&R suspension, the Brembos from the Steeda car, the OZ wheels and that FSWerks turbo setup. Or maybe we'd just take Brack's car. Check out the gallery by clicking below and more details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Ford Fiesta Customs


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Ford]

Continue reading LA 2009: Ford shows off some Fiesta possibilities

LA 2009: Ford shows off some Fiesta possibilities originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 3d Carbon3dcarboncustom carcustom carsCustomCarCustomCarsFiestafiesta movementFiestaMovementfordFord FiestaFordFiestaFSWerksHRken blockKenBlockla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowsteedaSteeda AutosportsSteedaAutosportsx gamesx games rallyXGamesXGamesRally Thu, 03 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST <![CDATA[BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt <i>is</i> coming to America]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2009 Mitsubishi Colt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Buried deep within Mitsubishi's (re)presentation of its PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid concept from the Tokyo Motor Show was a line about a global small car that Mitsubishi will be bringing to the US in 2010. That's it, one line. We didn't think too much of the announcement until Mitsubishi's Product Communications Manager Moe Durand walked up and said, "In case you missed it, the small car is the Colt." Dang!

Dang because we really like the new EVO-nosed Colt, especially in Ralliart trim. Additionally, now is a wonderful time to bring over a small car. Don't believe us? Just ask Ford (Fiesta) and Mazda (Mazda2). The Colt will be going up against some pretty hefty (albeit lightweight) competition in the form of established B-segmenters like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa.

And while we haven't driven the new Colt, the stats aren't exactly overwhelming - in top trim, a 1.5-liter MIVEC four-cylinder spits out 104 hp and 104 lb-ft of torque. Routed through a CVT transmission that's probably plenty of grunt for day to day small car activities. And odds are Mitsubishi will drop a slightly buffer mill into the Colt for US duty. But just picture this - what if Mitsubishi gives us the Ralliart Colt? Maybe with a turbo. We, for one, would really be in favor of that (hint, hint). Either way, here comes the Colt.


Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Colt

BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt is coming to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> BreakingColtLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowMitsubishiMitsubishi ColtMitsubishi Small CarMitsubishiColtMitsubishiSmallCar Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: 2011 Ford Fiesta unveiled by agents of the Movement]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-ford-fiesta-at-2009-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-ford-fiesta-at-2009-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-ford-fiesta-at-2009-la-auto-show/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2011 Ford Fiesta - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've been hearing about the 2011 Ford Fiesta for so long that it's hard to imagine that the U.S. version of the car was just officially unveiled today. We gave you all of the official details and photos late last night, but we can now give you our first live impressions of the North American-spec version. Ford's own Mark Fields officially introduced the car along with numerous Fiesta agents on hand who helped pull the sheets off the various Fiestas on the show floor.

Although just 60 percent of the parts on the U.S.-spec Fiesta are common with the European version, it seems that most of the charm of the car remains. Up front the grille has been revised to include the three-bar design (at least on the sedan), and the fog lights have been replaced by LED light strips surrounded by chrome. The interior design is relatively the same as well, although it's been tweaked to conform with U.S. crash standards and features soft touch materials, a four-inch LCD display, and available SYNC, auto climate control, leather seats, moon roof and more. Power comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder putting out a respectable 119 horsepower and 109 lb-ft torque. A 5-speed manual or new 6-speed PowerShift electronic dual clutch automatic will be the transmissions of choice, though the automatic goes without any manual controls.

There's plenty of more details in the multitude of press releases after the jump, and we've included all of our live shots of the 2011 Fiesta in the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Ford Fiesta


Gallery: 2011 Ford Fiesta


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: 2011 Ford Fiesta unveiled by agents of the Movement

LA 2009: 2011 Ford Fiesta unveiled by agents of the Movement originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2011 Ford Fiesta2011FordFiestaFiestaFordFord FiestaFordFiestala 2009la auto showla auto show 2009la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShow Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:38:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/#comments Filed under: , ,


Scion xB Release Series 7.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just yesterday we shared with you some pics of and specs on the latest Scion Release Series, the xB 7.0. It's a tradition of sorts for Scion to come out with a new Release at the LA Auto Show. For this go-around, Scion seems to have been indulging in some fermented grapes, as the bloody thing is painted Murasaki! That would be purple for those of us not fluent in Japanese. Well, we have just one thing to say now that we've seen it in person, we're glad it's going to be limited to just 2,000 units.

It's not so much the underlying xB, or the DAMD body kit, or the custom stitching on the interior. It's not the TRD springs for sure, and the new exhaust tips aren't that bad. It's just that when the whole thing is swathed in purple, we can't get past the color. In any case, you can check out the high-res gallery below and the press release after the jump and judge the 7.0 for yourself.


Gallery: LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0


Gallery: Scion xB Release Series 7.0


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies

LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowRelease Series 7.0ReleaseSeries7.0scionscion releaseScion xBScion xB Release Series 7.0ScionReleaseScionXbScionXbReleaseSeries7.0special editionSpecialEditiontoyotaxBxB Release Series 7.0XbReleaseSeries7.0 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Volkswagen New Beetle - Click above for high-res image gallery

Signifying the end of what has been a long run, Volkswagen has introduced "Final Edition" models of the New Beetle coupe and convertible. Each will be limited to a run of just 1,500 units. Under the hood is VW's familiar 2.5-liter inline-fine (rated at 150 horsepower) sending power to the front wheels through a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission - nothing new there. However, the German automaker has fitted a full sport suspension and unique 17-inch alloy wheels to each of the New Beetles to add a touch more driving excitement.

Cosmetically, the Final Edition models feature Aquarius Blue paint. The hardtop version breaks up the color with a black roof and integrated fog lights, while the convertible model has a two-tone Aquarius Blue/Campanella White paint scheme and a white top. Special badging is found on the front quarter panel and on the steering wheel. The hatchback version hits showrooms with a base MSRP of $20,240 and the convertible starts at $27,170. Press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Volkswagen Beetle


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models

LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bugconverible bugConveribleBugfinal editionFinalEditionlala2009laautoshowlast yearLastYearlimited editionLimitedEditionlos angelesLosAngeleslosangelesautoshownew beetlenew beetle convertibleNew Beetle CoupeNewBeetleNewBeetleConvertibleNewBeetleCoupe Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/#comments Filed under: , , ,


2011 Mazda2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Ford Fiesta may have been the big B-segment reveal last night, but Mazda has finally decided to bring its own compact runabout to North America, and it's based on the same architecture as it Blue Oval sibling. Originally launched in Europe, Japan, and Australia a couple of years ago, the Mazda2 was very well-received by media and consumers alike, a warm reception that probably helped make the case for the Japanese automaker to bring it over to the United States. That time has arrived, and the Mazda2 will be available in North America as a 2011 model.

Although Mazda revealed what the North American spec version will look like, it's still holding back additional information, including engine specifications, interior details, and pricing. We'll get more details soon, but in the meantime, check the full release after the jump and our live pics from the floor below.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Mazda2


Gallery: 2011 Mazda2


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011

LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20112011 Mazda22011Mazda2lala 2009la auto showla auto show 2011 mazda2la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2011Mazda2LaShowmazdamazda2 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept teases with practical, lightweight innovation]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-up-lite-concept-at-2009-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-up-lite-concept-at-2009-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-up-lite-concept-at-2009-la-auto-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen has just taken the cover off an all-new concept called the Up! Lite, a sinister looking diesel hybrid that gets (according to VW) 70 mpg combined. As in both City and Highway. Impressive, even if that only ends up being 90 percent accurate. In fact, should Volkswagen decide to green light the unfortunately named Up! Lite, it would be the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly four seat vehicle on the planet. Again, if the Up! Lite comes to fruition, we'll all be impressed. Interestingly, this concept isn't the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly car on earth is because another Volkswagen -- the L1 from Frankfurt - is. But it only seats two.

Ready for the good parts? The aptly titled Up! Lite barely tips the scales at 1,530 pounds. There are Honda Goldwings flirting with that weight class. This svelteness is achieved via a mix of aluminum, lightweight steel and carbon fiber. For instance, the roof is made entirely from the expensive weave. And those amazing wheels consist of ten carbon-fiber spokes and an aluminum fairing. Nifty, no? The tiny, stylized winglettes replace conventional rearview mirrors and contain cameras instead of reflective glass. The same holds true for the interior mounted mirror, as has been replaced by a camera.

Up front, there's an active air dam that opens up as needed. The extra cooling will help out the TDI hybrid drive lifted from the two-seater L1. This 800cc powerplant transmits power to the wheels using a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. Even though the diesel engine is teeny, when coupled to the electric motor, the Up! Lite can reach 100 mph and hit 60 mph in 12 seconds. Not fast by any means, but good enough - especially for an ultra-high mileage vehicle. And it can haul stuff, too - including humans. Unlike the Up! Concept we saw in Frankfurt, the Up! Lite seats four people, and with the rear seats folded, it can haul 30 cubic feet of stuff. Not bad at all.

Overall, we're pretty impressed by the looks and promise of the Up! Lite. In our estimation, there's absolutely nothing wrong with blending a Honda CRX with a Volvo C30. Will the Up! Lite ever make it to production? Who knows. VW claims the first Up!s(?) will go on sale in 2011. We get the sense that any future decision will be based on how the two-door Up! does. But we get the feeling the Up! Lite might give the people more of what they want. Official press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source:Volkswagen]

Continue reading LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept teases with practical, lightweight innovation

LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept teases with practical, lightweight innovation originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dieseldiesel hybridDieselHybridLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowlaautoshow2009LaShowUpUp LiteUp Lite ConceptUpLiteUpLiteConceptVolkswagenVolkswagen UpVolkswagen Up LiteVolkswagen Up Lite ConceptVolkswagenUpVolkswagenUpLiteVolkswagenUpLiteConcept Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been a long time in the making. It has changed names several times along the way. But it's finally here. Well, almost. It's the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, and it's coming to the Geneva Motor Show this March to coincide with its phased market launch across Europe next year to coincide with the marque's centenary.

Positioned just above the MiTo in Alfa's lineup (and, tellingly, below the anticipated upcoming 159-succeeding Giulia), the Giulietta replaces the 147 as Italy's answer to the Volkswagen Golf. Since Alfa's parent company Fiat already targets the Golf with its own Bravo, though, some might consider this more of an aggressively-priced competitor to the Audi A3. The hatchback takes its styling cues from the sumptuous 8C Competizione, but carries it off in a decidedly more aggressive way than implemented on the MiTo. Plenty of glass also make the cabin more airy, with a body-colored panel running across the dashboard.

A range of transverse four-cylinder engines - both gasoline and diesel - will be on offer, producing between 120 and 170 horsepower until a 230 hp Quadrifoglio Verde model comes along. They've all got start-stop engine management and Alfa's DNA adjustable suspension system as standard equipment. Fiat's cutting-edge MultiAir valve-actuation system will eventually find its way into all of the engines, while the selection of five- and six-speed manual gearboxes is set to be joined by a new dual-clutch transmission as well.

The new Giulietta marks a pivotal product launch for Alfa Romeo, as the company is hoping to make this its volume offering the most prolific model in its history - with production targeted for an ambitious 100,000 units annually. Check out the trifecta of images in the gallery below and the press release after the jump for full details.


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta


[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta

Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1492010 geneva2010 geneva auto show2010 geneva motor show2010Geneva2010GenevaAutoShow2010GenevaMotorShowalfaalfa 149alfa giuliettaalfa milanoalfa romeoalfa romeo 149alfa romeo giuliettaalfa romeo milanoAlfa149AlfaGiuliettaAlfaMilanoAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo149AlfaRomeoGiuliettaAlfaRomeoMilanobreakinggenevageneva 2010geneva auto showgeneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaAutoShowGenevaMotorShowgiuliettamilano Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST <![CDATA[LA Preview: 2011 Ford Fiesta for America revealed, hits 40 mpg]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-ford-fiesta-for-america-revealed-hits-40-mpg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-ford-fiesta-for-america-revealed-hits-40-mpg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-ford-fiesta-for-america-revealed-hits-40-mpg/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2011 Ford Fiesta - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Ford Fiesta has proven to be a very successful small car wherever it's sold in the world. Ford has sold 12 million Fiestas over the vehicle's lifetime and the new-for-2009 model has moved half a million units already this year in Europe and Asia. It's a smash hit in spite of the fact that the Fiesta is not for sale in the U.S., a.k.a. the world's biggest car market. That all changes in the spring of 2010 as the Fiesta finally makes its way stateside.

Ford appears to be focusing its efforts in the U.S. small car market at exactly the right time, as consideration for B-Segment vehicles is at an all-time high and the trend appears to be upwardly mobile. And while Ford would love for us to believe that it was clairvoyant when deciding to bring the Fiesta to the U.S., it just isn't true. In fact, the Fiesta wasn't originally designed for the U.S. market, but the shock of $4 per gallon gas and a new-found interest in eco-friendly transportation led the Blue Oval to rethink its strategy. Ford didn't start readying the Fiesta for the U.S. market until many bits and bolts of hardware were already settled, so Team Blue had to go back to the drawing board to make its small car ready for Americans. The result is a U.S.-spec Fiesta that has only 60% of its parts in common with the Euro Fiesta. Will Americans be missing out? Follow the jump for everything you need to know about the Fiesta.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Fiesta

Continue reading LA Preview: 2011 Ford Fiesta for America revealed, hits 40 mpg

LA Preview: 2011 Ford Fiesta for America revealed, hits 40 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 ford fiesta2011FordFiestafiestafiesta specsFiestaSpecsfordFord fiestaford fiesta launchFordFiestaFordFiestaLaunchla 2009LA auto showLa2009LaAutoShowlashowus spec fiestaUsSpecFiesta Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:01:00 EST <![CDATA["Viridian Joule" picked as winner of Chevy Volt Paint Color Contest]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/viridian-joule-picked-as-winner-of-chevy-volt-paint-color-contes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/viridian-joule-picked-as-winner-of-chevy-volt-paint-color-contes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/viridian-joule-picked-as-winner-of-chevy-volt-paint-color-contes/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Volt in Viridian Joule - Click above for high-res image gallery

The votes have been cast, the tallies tallied and the winner determined: Viridian Joule will be the official name of the silvery-green hue as seen on a slew of Chevrolet Volt marketing material for what seems like the last decade or so. So, um, what does Viridian Joule mean? We'll let the winner himself, 40-year-old David Thomas of Sanford, Florida, explain:
I looked at the photo of the Volt on the contest web site and thought it looked emerald in color, which led to jewel and then to an alternate yet appropriate play on that word - joule.
We needed a bit more help, so we looked up the word 'viridian'. So says Dictionary.com: a long-lasting, bluish-green pigment, consisting of a hydrated oxide of chromium. OK, fine. Joule wasn't so hard to figure out, but here's the definition anyway: a unit of electrical energy equal to the work done when a current of one ampere is passed through a resistance of one ohm for one second. So, there you have it.

Want to know more? Click past the break to read the official press release, and see the image gallery below for more views of a Viridian Joule Chevrolet Volt.


Gallery: 2011 Chevy Volt


[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading "Viridian Joule" picked as winner of Chevy Volt Paint Color Contest

"Viridian Joule" picked as winner of Chevy Volt Paint Color Contest originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVoltchevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltchevy volt colorChevyVoltChevyVoltColordavid thomasDavidThomasjourneysviridianViridian JouleViridianJoulevoltvolt colorvolt color namevolt colorsVoltColorVoltColorNameVoltColors Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:29:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Initial Chevy Volt launch will be in select U.S. markets only]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/report-initial-chevy-volt-launch-will-be-in-select-u-s-markets/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/report-initial-chevy-volt-launch-will-be-in-select-u-s-markets/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/report-initial-chevy-volt-launch-will-be-in-select-u-s-markets/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Undoubtedly, the 2011 Volt is one of the most hotly anticipated new model launches in Chevrolet's long and storied history, and it will likely be seen as a halo model of sorts for General Motors as a whole. As we experienced first hand when we slid behind the wheel of a preproduction Volt the other day, the car is well on its way to becoming a production reality, but actually getting the vehicle into the hands of customers will be another matter entirely.

According to a report from Automotive News, GM is currently in the process of selecting which markets will get first crack at the Volt when it finally goes on sale in just under one year's time. Chevrolet division President Brent Dewar said that the automaker is looking at a number of factors to determine those unannounced target markets, including the existence of an EV charging infrastructure and available tax credits. After this initial launch, the rest of the citizenry will get its chance to see the USA in an electric Chevrolet.


Gallery: Quick Spin: 2011 Chevrolet Volt


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Initial Chevy Volt launch will be in select U.S. markets only originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVoltchevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltchevy volt launchchevy volt productionChevyVoltChevyVoltLaunchChevyVoltProductionvolt Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:27:00 EST