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Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 12:08 AM
Thought it would be cool to have a thread dedicated to new cars and trucks. I love cars and have a great passion for them believe it or not. A couple of notable transformations this year is the new Cadillac Escalade and the new For Mustang.

CaptDave
12-06-2013, 12:17 AM
C7 Corvette
Cadillac CTS
BMW 4 series

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 12:19 AM
This is the new Mustang, haven't seen detailed specs yet other than a few engine options. It looks alright to me, but it will take time to grow on me though. I'm kind of glad for finally did away with the retro look. I miss the 302 though. I am generally not a Mustang fan anyhow, but I loved the Boss. Note that the new Mustang will also be offered as a 4 cylinder.

Here are some pics:

http://l3.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/F5GYr_fusAEXu8f53.INFQ--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9MTQ5ODtjcj0xO2N3PTIwMDA7ZHg9MD tkeT0wO2ZpPXVsY3JvcDtoPTQ3MjtxPTc1O3c9NjMw/http://l.yimg.com/os/publish-images/autos/2013-12-04/13dda13b-7bfd-4ad4-9ca6-02bd859d9567_15FordMustang_14_HR7.jpg
http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/NroW9y8cVnoMRoYQ_PlJfg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9Mjk5MDtjcj0xO2N3PTU3NjA7ZHg9MD tkeT0wO2ZpPXVsY3JvcDtoPTMyNztxPTc1O3c9NjMw/http://l.yimg.com/os/publish-images/autos/2013-12-05/aa6545c3-0f1e-4805-bf43-5df296d6a25f_15FordMustang_22_HR.jpeg
http://l3.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/7H5i1KHiUpOesN66w2buEQ--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9ODQ5O2NyPTE7Y3c9MTI4MDtkeD0wO2 R5PTA7Zmk9dWxjcm9wO2g9NDE4O3E9NzU7dz02MzA-/http://l.yimg.com/os/publish-images/autos/2013-12-05/549ef7d3-576f-42ba-a198-47e3a6b21458_08-2015-ford-mustang-1.jpg
http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/_xiQlZ9LPMfX4mp9JQNPsg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9MTA5NTtjcj0xO2N3PTIwMDA7ZHg9MD tkeT0wO2ZpPXVsY3JvcDtoPTM0NTtxPTc1O3c9NjMw/http://l.yimg.com/os/publish-images/autos/2013-12-04/d27fe808-0c92-46f2-9bb7-14d569dbad29_15FordMustang_03_HR3.jpg
http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/328261/slide_328261_3187456_free.jpg?1386254732638


''DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) — America's first pony car — the Ford Mustang — is celebrating its 50th birthday with a swoon-worthy new design and plans to go global.

Ford Motor Co. was to reveal the 2015 Mustang Thursday morning at events in New York, Los Angeles, Shanghai, Sydney, Barcelona and its hometown of Dearborn. It goes on sale next fall in North America and will arrive later in Europe and Asia.

The Mustang isn't anywhere near Ford's best-seller — Ford sells more pickups in a week than it does Mustangs in a month. But Ford says the Mustang has the highest name recognition and highest favorable opinion of any car in its lineup. And car companies count on beautiful sports cars to cast a glow over the rest of their offerings.

"It's an emotional connection to the rest of the brand," said Jacques Brent, group marketing manager for large cars and SUVs.

As for sales, Ford will be happy if Mustang can become the top selling pony car in the U.S. The Chevrolet Camaro, which followed the Mustang to market in 1966 and was last redesigned in 2009, has outsold the Mustang for the last three years and is on track to do it again this year, according to Kelley Blue Book.

The Mustang's first full redesign since 2005 presented Ford with a tough task: Update and freshen an icon without alienating its passionate fans. More than 9 million Mustangs have been sold since 1964, and the car has hundreds of fan clubs, including one solely for owners of yellow Mustangs. Farrah Fawcett drove a white one in "Charlie's Angels;" Steve McQueen raced a dark green one through the streets of San Francisco in 1968's "Bullitt."

The result is a new car with plenty of cues from the old. The long hood and sloping fastback are still there, as is the trapezoid-shaped grille with the Mustang logo from the original. But the new car sits lower and wider, and the roof tapers dramatically in the front and back. The signature rounded headlights are smaller and sit back under a fierce, chiseled brow, while the traditional three-bar taillights are now three-dimensional and tucked beneath the rear deck lid.

The Michigan-made car is currently sold overseas, but this is the first time it has been engineered to meet various international safety and emissions standards. A right-hand-drive version is being offered for the first time, for the United Kingdom and Australia, and Ford will market the car more heavily overseas.

Chief engineer Dave Pericak said that while the design meets international needs, it wasn't influenced by them.

"We did not design a global Mustang. We designed a Mustang and took it global," Pericak said.

Even with Ford's push, overseas sales will likely be modest, said Stephanie Brinley, an auto analyst with the consulting company IHS. IHS forecasts European Mustang sales will triple from current levels to around 2,500 in 2015, while sales in China will likely remain low because two-door coupes aren't popular there.

Coupes, in fact, make up less than 1 percent of sales annually across the globe, Brinley said. But they're still an important car for automakers to have.

"It's an aspirational body style. It signals a sporty drive and a sexier product," she said.

Drivers will have three engines to choose from: updated versions of the current 3.7-liter V6, which gets a projected 300 horsepower, and 5.0-liter V8, with 420 horsepower, as well as a new 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder that gets a projected 305 horsepower. Ford will also offer updated six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Final numbers for horsepower and fuel economy will be released later.''

Read more about this car here: 2015 Ford Mustang Unveiled, Still Has Plenty Of Muscle (PHOTOS) (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/12/05/ford-mustang-2015-photos_n_4391013.html#slide=3187456)

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 12:32 AM
2015 Cadillac Escalade

http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/autumn/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-autumn-4modal-shot1-931x464.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/autumn/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-autumn-4modal-shot3-931x464.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/interior-gallery/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-gallery-surround-yourself-960x431.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/interior-gallery/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-gallery-captains-960x431.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/interior-gallery/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-gallery-over-the-top-960x431.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/interior-gallery/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-gallery-first-class-960x431.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/interior-gallery/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-gallery-accommodate-960x431.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/interior/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-interior-931x464-lowerleft.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/exterior/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-page-exterior-30037-gan-931x464.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/exterior/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-page-exterior-30039-GBN_931x464.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/exterior/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-page-exterior-30044-gba-931x464.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/exterior/2015-Escalade-Future-vehicle-page-exterior-headlight-931x464.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/performance/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-perf-960x540.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/performance/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-perf-left-931x464.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/performance/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-perf-center-931x464.jpg

Specs
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/Escalade/Model_Overview/01_images/specs/2015-escalade-future-vehicle-specs-960x634.jpg

- http://www.cadillac.com/future-cars/2015-escalade.html

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 12:48 AM
C7 Corvette
Cadillac CTS
BMW 4 seriesWill post about the new BMW i8 later too. Chevy is also going to reveal the new ZO6 in a week I think, so that will be exciting.

CaptDave
12-06-2013, 12:59 AM
If you look, there is a bit of DB9 in the new Mustang. Depending on the suspension and brake package available, I think the 300+ bhp turbo 4 in the Mustang might be a cool option especially if the curb weight is kept around 3000 lb. Might get near 50/50 weight distribution to work with the independent rear (finally!!).

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 01:00 AM
2014 Tesla Model X

http://www.teslamotors.com/sites/default/files/bg_01_modelx_prod-05-kc_0.jpg
http://www.thedetroitbureau.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Tesla-Model-X-IP.jpg
http://www.thedetroitbureau.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Tesla-Model-X-at-Space-X.jpg
http://www.thedetroitbureau.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Tesla-Model-X-in-garage.jpg
http://www.thedetroitbureau.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Tesla-Model-X-front-3-4.jpg

These are old renderings
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/12q1/441391/2014-tesla-model-x-artists-rendering-photo-441415-s-787x481.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/12q1/441391/2014-tesla-model-x-artists-rendering-photo-441416-s-787x481.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/12q1/441391/2014-tesla-model-x-artists-rendering-photo-441417-s-787x481.jpg



The X’s connection to Tesla’s sedan is more than skin deep. The two cars essentially share a platform, but while the Model S is rear-drive-only, the X can be outfitted with crossover-necessary all-wheel drive. Its standard drive configuration mirrors that of the S, with a single, rear-mounted electric motor driving the rear wheels. An additional, front-mounted motor powers the front axle on all-wheel-drive models. As with other on-demand all-wheel-drive systems, the Model X’s detects traction differences between the two axles and apportions power accordingly. Similar to the S sedan, there will be a sporty Performance model; it will be all-wheel-drive-only and is claimed to hit 60 mph in less than five seconds.


Tesla Motors has introduced a prototype of the 2014 Model X crossover, its third all-electric model behind the Roadster and the Model S sedan. The seven-passenger Model X promises to be more versatile and family-friendly than the Model S, and will double the size of Tesla’s current U.S. lineup when it eventually goes on sale sometime in 2014. (Remember that the Roadster, being based on the Lotus Elise, lost its federal safety exemption and is no longer being sold in the U.S.)

Have We Met?

As expected—based on a recent teaser image—the Model X looks a lot like a Model S that has been stretched vertically. Its grille, headlights, taillights, and general contours are similar to the sedan’s. Even the two cars’ dashboards are nearly identical, with the X inheriting the S’s giant, 17-inch central touch screen and reconfigurable gauge cluster. However, the Model X has two key differences: a set of rear “falcon-wing” doors and a forward-facing third row of seats. (The Model S’s optional way-back row consists of a pair of rear-facing jump seats accessed through the hatch.) Tesla claims this pair of upward-swinging doors eases ingress and egress to both the second and third rows.


We think the setup is mostly a gimmick. The fancy doors don’t exactly jibe with the Model X’s advertised family appeal; they appear ready to interfere with the loading of children, possibly swooping down to snack on your pre-teens. Perhaps that’s why Tesla named its flightless doors after a bird of prey instead of using the “gullwing” term. But of course, that is so Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell. Whatever you call them, the doors aren’t without at least some clever engineering; hinges just above the window allow each door to fold as it swings up, keeping them close to the car in tight spaces.

It’s an Electric Crossover

The X’s connection to Tesla’s sedan is more than skin deep. The two cars essentially share a platform, but while the Model S is rear-drive-only, the X can be outfitted with crossover-necessary all-wheel drive. Its standard drive configuration mirrors that of the S, with a single, rear-mounted electric motor driving the rear wheels. An additional, front-mounted motor powers the front axle on all-wheel-drive models. As with other on-demand all-wheel-drive systems, the Model X’s detects traction differences between the two axles and apportions power accordingly. Similar to the S sedan, there will be a sporty Performance model; it will be all-wheel-drive-only and is claimed to hit 60 mph in less than five seconds.


Model X buyers will be able to choose between two battery capacities—a 60-kWh pack is standard, and an 85-kWh unit is available. Tesla hasn’t released other technical specifics yet, but it’s safe to assume the X heavier and less aerodynamic than the S. This, plus the additional electric motor on all-wheel-drive models, likely will conspire to give the X a shorter driving range than the S. Tesla says the Model S with the 60-kWh battery can travel up to 230 miles on a single charge, or up to 300 with the beefier 85-kWh unit. The X’s additional pork might also explain why Tesla isn’t offering it with the Model S’s available lower-capacity, 40-kWh battery, which offers the sedan just 160 miles of motoring.

Pricing for the Model X has yet to be announced, but Tesla has said the least-expensive version will start somewhere close to the Model S’s post-$7500 tax credit $49,900 sticker. Expect to dole out a lot more for the additional range afforded by the higher-capacity battery pack, and more still for the Performance version. Tesla plans to begin producing the crossover near the end of next year, and to deliver the first customer cars early in 2014. Given the Model S’s repeated delays—it has yet to go on sale

Read more on this article here(note this article is over a year old): http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2014-tesla-model-x-photos-and-info-news

- http://www.thedetroitbureau.com/2012/02/tesla-reveals-new-model-x-crossover/

Here is Tesla's very interactive website for the Model X: http://www.teslamotors.com/modelx

There have also been rumors that Tesla is building a concept truck based from the Ford F150 chassis

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 01:12 AM
If you look, there is a bit of DB9 in the new Mustang. Depending on the suspension and brake package available, I think the 300+ bhp turbo 4 in the Mustang might be a cool option especially if the curb weight is kept around 3000 lb. Might get near 50/50 weight distribution to work with the independent rear (finally!!).Well, maybe some people at Ford still want Aston to live with Ford lol I am kind of digging it though. They are definitely shooting to try and appeal to the Euro crowd and I think they are doing a good job. A lot of people are hating, but that always happens. I think overtime people will like it. TBH, when I first saw it, I thought Fusion Coupe‘ ;P

CaptDave
12-06-2013, 01:42 AM
I had a fairly heavily modified Mustang years ago and this is the first one in more than a decade I would consider buying based solely on looks. I think it will do well.

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 01:54 AM
2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_6.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_7.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_8.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_14.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_0.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_1.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_5.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_4.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/interior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_0.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-videos/interior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_2.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg

Specs:

Powertrain 6.2L V8 DI engine RWD
Standard Engine Gas V8
Displacement (liters/cu. in.) 6.2L/376
7-speed manual transmission Standard
6-speed Paddle Shift automatic transmission Available
Horsepower @ RPM 455 @ 6000
Horsepower 460
Torque @ RPM 460 @ 4600
Fuel Injection Direct Injection
Drivetrain Rear Wheel Drive
Axle Ratio 3.42
Steering/Suspension 6.2L V8 DI engine RWD
Front Suspension Short/Long Arm
Rear Suspension Short/Long Arm
Brakes 6.2L V8 DI engine RWD
4-Wheel Disc Brakes Yes
Brake/ABS System 4-Wheel

- 2014 Corvette Stingray: GT Car - C7 | Chevrolet (http://www.chevrolet.com/corvette-stingray.html)


I actually really like it, a lot. I saw one the other day on Covell. Will post a picture later.

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 02:10 AM
2014 BMW i8

http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-1.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-2.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-3.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-4.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-5.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-7.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-8.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-9.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-10.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-15.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-17.jpg
http://www.bmw.com/_common/shared/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/images_and_videos/wallpaper-1920x1200/Wallpaper-1920x1200-16.jpg

Specs:

Performance
Top speed fully electric in km/h 120
Top speed in km/h
250
Acceleration from 0–60 km/h on purely electric power in seconds 4.5
Acceleration 0–100 km/h in s


The BMW i8 is ready to revolutionise its vehicle class. As the first sports car with the consumption and emission values of a compact car. The strength of the plug-in hybrid lies in the perfect synchronisation of electric motor and combustion engine, that’s brought to the street with the highest efficiency and dynamics. No longer a vision, but charged intelligence. The first sports car that even accelerates the zeitgeist.

- BMW i8 (http://www.bmw.com/com/en/newvehicles/i/i8/2013/showroom/index.html)

From Car and Driver

'It’s been nearly two years since BMW’s Vision EfficientDynamics concept debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt show, and the car has now officially re-emerged one step closer to production as the BMW i8 concept. As you can see, little has changed in the styling department. In fact, other than a new wheel design, the only other notable change we’ve spotted concerns the doors, which seem to have claimed some territory along their bottoms and thereby reduced the size of the blue body-side accent. Interestingly, the car didn’t show that change when BMW paraded it around for spy photographers this past March, but we like it.

Passenger Compartment + Powertrain = LifeDrive

As with the i3 city car concept that debuted at the same time (you can read about it in full here), the story of the i8 begins with its so-called LifeDrive architecture. BMW says that its experiences in creating the Mini E and 1-series-based BMW ActiveE showed that adapting cars engineered for internal-combustion power to electric propulsion results in a lot of excess weight and compromises in packaging. As a result, both the i8 and i3 are built using two purpose-built modules: one to house passengers, dubbed “Life,” and one for propulsion and suspension components, called “Drive.” Combine them, and you have a car—and marketing-friendly “LifeDrive” branding.

While the i3 and i8 share the LifeDrive architectural philosophy, the cars differ in execution. That’s because the i3 is fully electric, while this i8 is a plug-in hybrid. The i8’s powertrain is split between its two axles, with an electric motor and direct-drive transmission at the front axle and a gas engine and transaxle at the rear.

Interestingly, the battery packs in the i3 and i8 use different lithium-ion chemistries, as well as unique shapes. The large, square pancake battery of the i3 is designed for longer distance travel—in other words, it has a lot of energy—and is located below the passenger compartment. In contrast, the i8’s lithium-ion cells protrude into the coupe’s Life space, where, as in the Chevrolet Volt, the liquid-cooled and -heated battery stack fills a hump that could be mistaken for a transmission tunnel. The i8’s elongated pack is designed to deliver shots of power in short spurts; the final spec is yet to be decided, but it should have a capacity of around 8 kWh.


Arranging the pack this way allowed BMW’s engineers to achieve yet another claim of perfect 50/50 weight distribution, thereby preserving peace in the city of Munich. As in the i3, the i8’s Drive components are largely crafted of aluminum, while the Life module uses a carbon-fiber skeleton wrapped in thermoplastic exterior panels.

So much lightweight material allows the i8 to use a smaller, lighter battery than would be needed if the car were made of heavier steel. This frees up room in the cabin, and, more important, keeps the curb weight around a svelte 3300 pounds. The rigidity imparted by the carbon fiber also allows for long, dramatic doors that ease access to the two small rear seats.

While most other hybrids are based on existing front-drive vehicles, BMW had the luxury of starting from scratch. As with all 50/50-balanced cars, the majority of braking forces occur at the front axle. So, in the effort to recoup as much energy from regenerative braking, it makes sense for BMW to fit the electric half of the powertrain up front. The i8 uses a modified version of the i3's electric motor, with a peak output of 129 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. It’s fed juice, of course, by those lithium-ions, and takes about two hours to charge from a 240-volt trough. Battery topped off, the i8 will return 20 miles of all-electric driving.

Three’s Company: 220-Horse Three-Cylinder

The original Vision EfficientDynamics concept used a three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, but the i8 makes use of a gas-fired turbo three-cylinder that may turn out to be the best part of the powertrain puzzle. It is a version of BMW’s new modular engine on which we first reported in April. It displaces just 1.5 liters, features direct injection, a turbocharger, variable camshaft timing, and variable intake-cam lift. It makes an astonishing 220 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Altogether, the hybrid powertrain makes 349 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. That puts this car in elite company within BMW. Think M company.

The i8 weighs slightly less than a 1-series M, and makes more power and torque. BMW says the i8 is governed to 155 mph and it will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than five seconds; think more like low fours with a quarter-mile time of less than 13 seconds. But where the 1M gets, at best, 26 mpg on the highway, BMW says the ocho should return real-world, combined fuel economy near 40 mpg. One area of concern for twisty-road seekers is its tires. They are narrow, of the low-rolling-resistance variety and will thus suffer in limit grip. We hope there’s an option box for summer tires''

- read more here: BMW i8 Concept Official Photos and Info ? News ? Car and Driver (http://www.caranddriver.com/news/bmw-i8-concept-official-photos-and-info-news)

Plutonic Panda
12-06-2013, 02:13 AM
I had a fairly heavily modified Mustang years ago and this is the first one in more than a decade I would consider buying based solely on looks. I think it will do well.That's awesome! Yeah the only Mustang I have really really liked in a long time was the Boss 302.

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-06-2013, 03:31 AM
I'm split on the new Mustang...Some pics it looks okay (I like the current one just fine), but then I see one like this...And I want to go slap a designer. Looks like a Solara...Or something else equally boring.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i199/imawingnut/1402964_10152048003069561_122947785_zps630196b6.jp g

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-06-2013, 03:32 AM
In all fairness though, I'd never buy a Mustang. So my opinion of them doesn't really count for much :D

Garin
12-06-2013, 05:46 AM
Most of the mustang crowd is not happy with what ford has brought to the market with this one. Looks very foreign and from some angles European

bradh
12-06-2013, 07:09 AM
This is not a sexy topic, but once I'm done with my current 09 Silverado Z-71, I'm thinking of switching to a Honda Ridgeline. However, I've heard multiple reports that 2014 might be the last year for it, but if not, it'll get a redesign for 2015 (I'll be looking to buy in December 2014).

I also heard they may be putting the same 300hp engine from the Acura MDX in the Ridgline...I can get on board with that.

Plutonic Panda
12-09-2013, 08:16 PM
Here is a couple possible designs for the GT350 and a Mach 1.

GT350
http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/2015-ford-mustang-gt350-render_100449023_m.jpg

Mach 1
http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/2015-ford-mustang-mach-1-render_100449024_m.jpg

These are just a couple of renderings so this isn't confirmed, just a possibility. I really like them.

Plutonic Panda
12-09-2013, 08:32 PM
2014 Cadillac ELR

Another full electric car.

http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/ELR/Model_Overview/01_images/2013-elr-landing-page-masthead-design-driven-960x564.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/ELR/Model_Overview/01_images/2013-elr-landing-page-interior-leather-960x730.jpg
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/ELR/Model_Overview/01_images/2013-elr-landing-page-interior-sumptuous-960x730.jpg
http://img2.netcarshow.com/Cadillac-ELR_2014_1024x768_wallpaper_01.jpg
http://img2.netcarshow.com/Cadillac-ELR_2014_800x600_wallpaper_2b.jpg
http://img2.netcarshow.com/Cadillac-ELR_2014_800x600_wallpaper_05.jpg
http://img2.netcarshow.com/Cadillac-ELR_2014_800x600_wallpaper_39.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/media/545922/2014-cadillac-elr-interior-photo-546027-s-787x481.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/media/545922/2014-cadillac-elr-photo-546017-s-787x481.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/media/545922/2014-cadillac-elr-photo-546016-s-787x481.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/media/545922/2014-cadillac-elr-photo-546014-s-787x481.jpg

Specs
http://www.cadillac.com/content/dam/Cadillac/Global/master/nscwebsite/en/home/Vehicles/Future_Vehicles/ELR/Model_Overview/01_images/DESKTOP_Specs-chart-only.jpg

Plutonic Panda
12-09-2013, 08:54 PM
2014 Chevy Impala Redesign and Holden based Chevy SS

Impala
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/cars/2014-impala/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_13.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/cars/2014-impala/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_14.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/cars/2014-impala/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_4.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/cars/2014-impala/photos-and-videos/interior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_9.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg

Specs:
3.6L DOHC V6 DI engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) FWD
6 Speed Auto Tranny
HP: 305 @ 6800rpm
Torque rated @ 264 @ 5200rpm
FWD


Chevy SS
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-ss/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_19.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-ss/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_20.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-ss/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_4.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-ss/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_15.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-ss/photos-and-videos/exterior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_14.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-ss/photos-and-videos/interior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_20.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-performance/2014-ss/photos-and-videos/interior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_13.img_resize.img_stage._1.jpg
I love this car particularly!

Specs:
Powertrain 6.2L V8 SFI engine RWD
Standard Engine Gas V8
Displacement (liters/cu. in.) 6.2L/376
6-speed automatic transmission Standard
Fuel Injection Electronic Fuel Injection
Drivetrain Rear Wheel Drive
Steering/Suspension 6.2L V8 SFI engine RWD
Front Suspension Multi-Link MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension Multi-Link
Turning Circle (ft.) 37.4 ft
Brakes 6.2L V8 SFI engine RWD
4-Wheel Disc Brakes Yes
4-Wheel ABS 4-Wheel

I believe she also puts out around 420 horses. Beautiful car no doubt.

Prunepicker
12-09-2013, 09:04 PM
http://media.townhall.com/Townhall/Car/b/payn_c11404020131209120100.jpg

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-09-2013, 09:18 PM
I really like that SS.

Plutonic Panda
12-09-2013, 09:22 PM
I agree! I really don't mind that it is a rebadged Commodore; it is simply awesome!

Here is the website for those who want to read more: Chevy SS Sports Sedan: An All-New Performance Sedan | Chevrolet (http://www.chevrolet.com/culture/article/ss-performance-sedan-debut.html)

Prunepicker
12-09-2013, 09:38 PM
I prefer Ferrari's, Lamborghini's and other high performance cars like the
1931 Model A Ford.

Prunepicker
12-09-2013, 09:40 PM
I agree! I really don't mind that it is a rebadged Commodore; it is simply
awesome!
Finally! Something we can agree on. I do all my computing from a high
speed Commodore 64!

No doubt, the Commodore is an awesome machine. I have a 960 baud
cradle. Eat your hearts out!

There's talk of a computer with 128 meg of memory. Yeah, right. I'll
believe it when I see it.

In the meantime, I'm awaiting a reply from a billboard service I
subscribe to.

Just the facts
12-09-2013, 09:42 PM
When I look back over the years at how much I have spent on cars and what I have to show for it, I decided to try the opposite approach and see just how little I can spend on cars (still buying new of course). Last month I bought a 2014 Fiat 500L. Fun to drive, lots of options, and 37 mpg on the highway.

http://www.carngebot.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Fiat-500L-Trekking-2014-Dashboard-Interior.jpg

http://media.ed.edmunds-media.com/fiat/500l/2014/fd/2014_fiat_500l_actf34_fd_621132_600.jpg

Two weeks ago I hit a deer in south Georgia with it.

http://i1178.photobucket.com/albums/x378/KerryinJax/CAM00136_zpse90fd60c.jpg

http://i1178.photobucket.com/albums/x378/KerryinJax/CAM00138_zpscf773c58.jpg

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-09-2013, 09:45 PM
I agree! I really don't mind that it is a rebadged Commodore; it is simply awesome!

Here is the website for those who want to read more: Chevy SS Sports Sedan: An All-New Performance Sedan | Chevrolet (http://www.chevrolet.com/culture/article/ss-performance-sedan-debut.html)


Well the last two Australian "imports" from Holden have been fantastic cars. The Pontiac G8 and the 2004-2006 GTO (say what you will about their looks, but they're great cars and they're aging nicely) were pretty good goodbyes from a Pontiac that had lost its way a couple of decades ago. I won't be shocked if the SS is even better than those two. From the looks of that interior, it should be.

Still not sold on the new Mustang's looks, but there's no denying that they're going to be very fast and handle well. I'm just glad that it appears they're done with retro. I didn't care that crap when they (and MOPAR and GM to some extent) started it, and I'm getting more tired of it with every passing year. I mean look...We were SUPPOSED TO HAVE FLYING CARS 13 YEARS AGO, but all we get are cars that are purposefully built to look like 40 year old memories? SHUT THE FRONT DOOR. Give me space-shippy and move on to what's next. Look forward. Don't give me things that look like what my dad had in 1972. Unless it's that '70 Chevelle SS. I'd take that plz.


/is aware he's in the minority here.

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-09-2013, 09:48 PM
When I look back over the years at how much I have spent on cars and what I have to show for it, I decided to try the opposite approach and see just how little I can spend on cars (still buying new of course). Last month I bought a 2014 Fiat 500L. Fun to drive, lots of options, and 37 mpg on the highway.


Two weeks ago I hit a deer in south Georgia with it.


I love those cars. Guy I work with has an Abarth one that's a little hopped up. Great GREAT little car.

Plutonic Panda
12-09-2013, 09:54 PM
When I look back over the years at how much I have spent on cars and what I have to show for it, I decided to try the opposite approach and see just how little I can spend on cars (still buying new of course). Last month I bought a 2014 Fiat 500L. Fun to drive, lots of options, and 37 mpg on the highway.

Two weeks ago I hit a deer in south Georgia with it.

http://i1178.photobucket.com/albums/x378/KerryinJax/CAM00136_zpse90fd60c.jpg

http://i1178.photobucket.com/albums/x378/KerryinJax/CAM00138_zpscf773c58.jpgYou're kidding me, that much damage from a deer? Wow. . . Are you satisfied overall with the car. I was actually going to post about that car. Is it the Abarth or do they not even make the Abarth for the 500L?

Plutonic Panda
12-09-2013, 09:59 PM
Well the last two Australian "imports" from Holden have been fantastic cars. The Pontiac G8 and the 2004-2006 GTO (say what you will about their looks, but they're great cars and they're aging nicely) were pretty good goodbyes from a Pontiac that had lost its way a couple of decades ago. I won't be shocked if the SS is even better than those two. From the looks of that interior, it should be.

Still not sold on the new Mustang's looks, but there's no denying that they're going to be very fast and handle well. I'm just glad that it appears they're done with retro. I didn't care that crap when they (and MOPAR and GM to some extent) started it, and I'm getting more tired of it with every passing year. I mean look...We were SUPPOSED TO HAVE FLYING CARS 13 YEARS AGO, but all we get are cars that are purposefully built to look like 40 year old memories? SHUT THE FRONT DOOR. Give me space-shippy and move on to what's next. Look forward. Don't give me things that look like what my dad had in 1972. Unless it's that '70 Chevelle SS. I'd take that plz.


/is aware he's in the minority here.I agree with on the GTO. That car was such a beast.

As for as the new stallion, it's interesting that Ford is including and electronic burnout assistance feature for the car, to help you do burnouts of course lol

Plutonic Panda
12-09-2013, 10:00 PM
Finally! Something we can agree on. I do all my computing from a high
speed Commodore 64!

No doubt, the Commodore is an awesome machine. I have a 960 baud
cradle. Eat your hearts out!

There's talk of a computer with 128 meg of memory. Yeah, right. I'll
believe it when I see it.

In the meantime, I'm awaiting a reply from a billboard service I
subscribe to.You're not still using AOL are you? ;)

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-09-2013, 10:06 PM
Ha! They're including a line-lock or something?

CaptDave
12-09-2013, 10:11 PM
I love those cars. Guy I work with has an Abarth one that's a little hopped up. Great GREAT little car.

I drove an Abarth and it was a blast. If I were to go for a micro car it would be a top 2 choice with a Fiesta ST.

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-09-2013, 10:17 PM
Yup. It would be at the top of the list.

Prunepicker
12-09-2013, 10:22 PM
When I look back over the years at how much I have spent on cars and
what I have to show for it, I decided to try the opposite approach and
see just how little I can spend on cars (still buying new of course). Last
month I bought a 2014 Fiat 500L. Fun to drive, lots of options, and 37
mpg on the highway.
In the 60's I was big on the French imports. I owned several Renault
Dauphines, a Caravelle and a few Peugeot's. I didn't spend more than
$100. Each got close to 40mpgs.

It was fun to see if I could go a month on less than $5. I wasn't
stupid enough to be an environmental whacko. I simply knew that
I wanted money in my pocket. The chicks dug it, too. Hey. blowin'
$3 bucks on a chick was extravagant.

Just the facts
12-10-2013, 05:49 AM
Let me say about the Fiat - I love it. I had the little 2-door for a rental car and getting around downtown Atlanta was so easy. When I decided to get rid of the Ram 1500 I wanted to find the smallest car I could still get a family of 4 in comfortably. The 500L has so much interior space it isn't funny. The only thing I didn't get on it was the panoramic moon roof and if I had to do it again I would have done it (I didn't do it because the only one they had was white). The only downside is that it is not comfortable for me to drive long distance. 3 hours behind the wheel is about as long as I can go before I have to stop and get out.

Just the facts
12-10-2013, 05:59 AM
You're kidding me, that much damage from a deer? Wow. . . Are you satisfied overall with the car. I was actually going to post about that car. Is it the Abarth or do they not even make the Abarth for the 500L?

Over $7,000 in damage. Stupid deer. The part that sucked the most is that I still had a 2 hour drive from where this happened. And of course, it was the total butterfly effect. I was only on this stretch of road at this time because I stopped in Macon for a quick bit to eat a few hours earlier and while I was in the bathroom someone stole my food so they had to make my meal again. Otherwise, this deer and I would have never met.

Anyhow, like I said earlier. I really like the car so if one of the +$60,000 cars posted already aren't in your price range this is a great choice.

mkjeeves
12-10-2013, 06:27 AM
Over $7,000 in damage. Stupid deer. The part that sucked the most is that I still had a 2 hour drive from where this happened. And of course, it was the total butterfly effect. I was only on this stretch of road at this time because I stopped in Macon for a quick bit to eat a few hours earlier and while I was in the bathroom someone stole my food so they had to make my meal again. Otherwise, this deer and I would have never met.

Anyhow, like I said earlier. I really like the car so if one of the +$60,000 cars posted already aren't in your price range this is a great choice.

That sucks and I've been there. Not hit a deer but I had a woman change lanes into the first new car I bought a few months after I owned it and had an 8' aluminum bar bouncing down the road punch the grill and radiator on a CRV right after I bought it. I saw 6 deer roadside on my rental car drive from Montgomery, Alabama into the piney woods over Thanksgiving. Huge hazard to life and limb, especially in the south where there seem to be so many.

Plutonic Panda
12-10-2013, 07:23 AM
Over $7,000 in damage. Stupid deer. The part that sucked the most is that I still had a 2 hour drive from where this happened. And of course, it was the total butterfly effect. I was only on this stretch of road at this time because I stopped in Macon for a quick bit to eat a few hours earlier and while I was in the bathroom someone stole my food so they had to make my meal again. Otherwise, this deer and I would have never met.

Anyhow, like I said earlier. I really like the car so if one of the +$60,000 cars posted already aren't in your price range this is a great choice.Wow that sucks.

As for the price range, I'll be posting some cheaper cars here pretty soon. The Chevy SS is rate at something like 47,000 MSRP, not including dealer mark-up. I believe the Impala 2LTZ is rated below 50k as well. Surely the new Mustang will start out in the lower 20's and it'll offer a 4 cylinder however it is not practical for families.

BTW, I am seriously thinking of getting a commuter car for my new semester at OU. I will be commuting from Edmond to Norman and was curious if you thought the 500L is better than the Prius. I am thinking of getting either a 500 Abarth, Prius, or a used Chevy Volt. Haven't really made any final decisions though.

Just the facts
12-10-2013, 07:28 AM
I paid just under $24,000 for the Fiat. The moon roof option would have bumped it to $26,000.

RadicalModerate
12-10-2013, 07:33 AM
Over $7,000 in damage. Stupid deer. The part that sucked the most is that I still had a 2 hour drive from where this happened. And of course, it was the total butterfly effect. I was only on this stretch of road at this time because I stopped in Macon for a quick bit to eat a few hours earlier and while I was in the bathroom someone stole my food so they had to make my meal again. Otherwise, this deer and I would have never met.

Anyhow, like I said earlier. I really like the car so if one of the +$60,000 cars posted already aren't in your price range this is a great choice.

It looks to me as if the deer hit you rather than the other way around. Therefore, no matter else what did or didn't happen earlier that day, the result would have been the same as it was just waiting for you to drive by. This is why lurking/loitering deer are such a menace. Plus they don't seem to pay a bit of attention to those "Deer Crossing" signs.

Plutonic Panda
12-10-2013, 07:37 AM
I paid just under $24,000 for the Fiat. The moon roof option would have bumped it to $26,000.

That's awesome. Any car I get will be used. My father is a car dealer and I go to the DAA(dealers auto auction) off of Portland. They have some really good deals. Saw an 2009 M3 go through for 24,500 the other day. Wanted it really bad but insurance would be too expensive at this point in time.

The 500's aren't loosing their value though. They are like a newer model Jeep(05 or newer) or a Toyota FJ Cruiser-to name a few- that hold their value really well. They go through for stupid prices and I sometimes wonder how they will recoup costs.

RadicalModerate
12-10-2013, 07:46 AM
BTW, I am seriously thinking of getting a commuter car for my new semester at OU. I will be commuting from Edmond to Norman . . .

The answer to one's dreams: Sporty, Small, Sensational
http://thecartech.com/gallery/cars/small_car.JPG
Easy to park and nearly invisible to deer (Stealthy)

MadMonk
12-10-2013, 08:00 AM
Man, I bet that deer was PO'd. :tongue:

Plutonic Panda
12-10-2013, 08:02 AM
The answer to one's dreams: Sporty, Small, Sensational
http://thecartech.com/gallery/cars/small_car.JPG
Easy to park and nearly invisible to deer (Stealthy)Yeah. . . if you're on some top secret clown business.

Dubya61
12-10-2013, 09:45 AM
It looks to me as if the deer hit you rather than the other way around. Therefore, no matter else what did or didn't happen earlier that day, the result would have been the same as it was just waiting for you to drive by. This is why lurking/loitering deer are such a menace. Plus they don't seem to pay a bit of attention to those "Deer Crossing" signs.

I often see deer on the side of the interstate driving home (my drive, not the deer's). There's always just a bit of pucker factor for me when I see 'em. I can almost hear them saying, "Hey, Jed. Watch these hru-dus (ref to one of my fav books: Watership Down) go crazy when I fake a run towards the median."

ctchandler
12-10-2013, 10:24 AM
JTF,
My London friend says the Brits say that Fiat stands for "Fix it again Tony"! That's not an opinion, just a funny thing, like "Fix or repair daily". I have never owned one or known anyone that did. Neither did my friend.
C. T.

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-10-2013, 10:44 AM
I thought it was "Flip Over Read Directions"

:D

Panda, if I needed a DD that was 1) great in all weather 2) known for dependability and 3) somewhat economical (you are a student after all :D )...Well...All that just screams scoob to me.

Embrace your inner Pacific NWerner...BUY THE SUBARU. BE THE SUBARU.

<<<Would get a wagon

CaptDave
12-10-2013, 10:49 AM
The vehicle I am most looking forward to is the VW Golf GTD. GTI handling with TDI mileage. Coming to the US in 2015 - finally.

2015 Volkswagen GTD First Drive - Autoblog (http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/21/2015-volkswagen-gtd-first-drive-review/)

2015 Volkswagen Golf GTD | MotorWeek (http://www.motorweek.org/reviews/first_impressions/2015_volkswagen_golf_gtd)

RadicalModerate
12-10-2013, 12:09 PM
Yeah. . . if you're on some top secret clown business.

Had The Sooners not pulled it off, right there at the end, last weekend, some might suggest that your upcoming commute might be exactly that.
(sorry . . . probably should have been over on the Odd Humor thread. =)

Please be advised not to confuse that with any inferences involved in "commuting to Stillwater" to enjoy a sports contest in sub-zero air temperatures when you include wind chill.

Plutonic Panda
12-10-2013, 12:12 PM
I thought it was "Flip Over Read Directions"

:D

Panda, if I needed a DD that was 1) great in all weather 2) known for dependability and 3) somewhat economical (you are a student after all :D )...Well...All that just screams scoob to me.

Embrace your inner Pacific NWerner...BUY THE SUBARU. BE THE SUBARU.

<<<Would get a wagonSaw a badd ass WRX STI a few weeks ago at the auction. Got in it and drove her around the lot and I have to say DAYYYUMMMMM! I wouldn't mind having one and have seriously been considering them. The four door is just as cool, but having a freaking rally car would be sweet.

RadicalModerate
12-10-2013, 12:14 PM
Saw a badd ass WRX STI a few weeks ago at the auction. Got in it and drove her around the lot and I have to say DAYYYUMMMMM! I wouldn't mind having one and have seriously been considering them. The four door is just as cool, but having a freaking rally car would be sweet.

Do you take I-35 from Edmond to Norman?
Simply askin'
(Not Fast Nor Furious)

Plutonic Panda
12-10-2013, 12:18 PM
Do you take I-35 from Edmond to Norman?
Simply askin'Are you going to request increased patrol presence? ;)

Yes, that will be my route. Right now I take I-35 to I-40 to I-44 to get to OCCC, but when just take I-35 all the way from Covell to Highway 9 to get to school likely when I start going. Luckily once I get south of OKC I will be against traffic, I just hope my hours don't require me to drive during rush hour like they did this year. I can't believe how crazy and rude some drivers get during the morning rush hour.

RadicalModerate
12-10-2013, 01:01 PM
JTF,
My London friend says the Brits say that Fiat stands for "Fix it again Tony"! That's not an opinion, just a funny thing, like "Fix or repair daily". I have never owned one or known anyone that did. Neither did my friend.
C. T.

I always thought that the translated acronym for FORD was Found On Road Dead. Fix Or Repair Daily is much better. I've only owned one Ford and drove another for a couple thousand miles. It was a nearly new Ford Taurus. Pretty sweet. Way sweeter than the Ford Focus.

Oh GAWD the Smell!
12-10-2013, 09:32 PM
Saw a badd ass WRX STI a few weeks ago at the auction. Got in it and drove her around the lot and I have to say DAYYYUMMMMM! I wouldn't mind having one and have seriously been considering them. The four door is just as cool, but having a freaking rally car would be sweet.

Eh...Those are for the young. They're spartan on the inside and ride like dump trucks. Great little cars. Fun as hell. But they'll beat your kidneys into pulp. I'm too old for that stuff :D

Plutonic Panda
01-06-2014, 09:50 PM
2015 Toyota Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV)

*Range of approx. 300 miles
*Fuel time around 3-5 minutes
*Water vapor emission
*0-60MPH 10 seconds
*Sedan
*150 hp
*Speculated price is around $50,000
*

http://www.toyota.com/fuelcell/images/gallery_1.jpg
http://www.toyota.com/fuelcell/images/gallery_2.jpg
http://www.toyota.com/fuelcell/images/gallery_3.jpg
http://www.toyota.com/fuelcell/images/gallery_4.jpg
http://www.egmcartech.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2015-Toyota-FCV-Hydrogen-Fuel-Cell-Car-7.jpg
http://www.egmcartech.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2015-Toyota-FCV-Hydrogen-Fuel-Cell-Car-40.jpg


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rN3aqDpl_Vw

----

From Motor Trend:


The predicament of the hydrogen fuel cell car is often likened to the chicken or the egg scenario: Without fuel cell cars to buy, who'll invest in hydrogen refueling stations? And without stations -- well, you know the rest. But making matters a whole lot worse has been that until now, this particular chicken and this particular egg might as well be made of 24-karat gold. They're both staggeringly expensive technologies. Example: The fuel cells in the 100 experimental Highlanders Toyota built in 2007 each cost a cool $1 million dollars.

The line forms here. Listen to this, then. The cost of the fuel cell that'll be in Toyota's first commercially available offering (a 2015 model whose name and design will bow at the Tokyo Motor Show) will be slashed by 95 percent. Ninety. Five. Percent. Not only that, it'll be more powerful and about two-thirds the size of the 2007 edition, and will neatly fit within the center console and beneath the front seats.


A second fiscal barrier has been the cost of the carbon-fiber-wound, 10,000-psi hydrogen storage tanks. Compared to a conventional car's gas tank - made of simple molded plastic and operating at essentially atmospheric pressure - the words "carbon fiber" and "10,000 psi" and "hydrogen" (think Hindenburg!) ought to nicely bring the problem into focus.


The car will carry two of these tanks, one under the rear seat, another farther back beneath the trunk. And combined, they hold about 5 kg of hydrogen (the energy equivalent of 5 gallons of gasoline)


Remember when the original Prius appeared and everybody had their mouths agape as they calculated how much Toyota was losing on each one? It seemed like incomprehensible fiscal folly then. Today, the very profitable Prius nameplate is California's best-seller (combining Prius, Prius C, and Prius V), and it's a pillar of the product line. Toyota has a patience that few in the car business can really comprehend. The HFCV's planners have lived this story before. Except that last time, the fuel tank for the Prius' wildly imaginative drivetrain was still replenished at old-fashioned gas stations. The 10,000 psi hydrogen refueling stations are as rare as hen's teeth -- and those might as well be made of 24-karat gold.

-----

Website: Toyota Fuel Cell Cars: Introducing Toyota's Fuel Cell Technology (http://www.toyota.com/fuelcell/)
Toyota shows off Fuel Cell Vehicle, will be on sale in 2015 | CES 2014 - CNET Blogs (http://ces.cnet.com/8301-35284_1-57616580/toyota-shows-off-fuel-cell-vehicle-will-be-on-sale-in-2015/)
2015 Toyota Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle First Drive - Motor Trend (http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/alternative/1311_2015_toyota_fuel_cell_electric_vehicle_first_ drive/)

Oh GAWD the Smell!
01-06-2014, 09:55 PM
Lol..looks like a retarded vampire with a severe overbite.

Plutonic Panda
01-06-2014, 10:01 PM
I agree about the look, however I think hydrogen fuel cell cars are the future(over electric). The environmental impact of making batteries is very high and they don't last forever and need to be recycled which also amounts to an even bigger environmental cost. I just don't see electric cars becoming prevalent.

Oh GAWD the Smell!
01-06-2014, 10:18 PM
Maybe.

I'm thinking that the next giant boom will be in energy storage. That's the golden ticket. Make an inexpensive and lightweight battery that will hold a lot of power, and do it without using rare (see: expensive) metals...And you've just solved the vast majority of solar and wind energy's problems. Transportation's as well.

The person or company that does that is going to rule this century like the oil barons of the 20th.

*puts down magic 8 ball*

Or we'll find oil on the moon or something.

Plutonic Panda
01-06-2014, 10:21 PM
Maybe.

I'm thinking that the next giant boom will be in energy storage. That's the golden ticket. Make an inexpensive and lightweight battery that will hold a lot of power, and do it without using rare (see: expensive) metals...And you've just solved the vast majority of solar and wind energy's problems. Transportation's as well.

The person or company that does that is going to rule this century like the oil barons of the 20th.

*puts down magic 8 ball*

Or we'll find oil on the moon or something.Hey I've wanted to be a pioneer in energy storage since I first read about it when I was 14. I would love to revolutionize it along with cold fusion reactors, but either someone will do it before or I'll be sleeping with the fishes(courtesy of the oil corps.) or both ;)

Plutonic Panda
01-06-2014, 10:49 PM
2014 McLeran P1

Just wanted to post about this car. This baby is easily on my favorite cars along with the 2006 Ford GT and the 1962 Ferrari GTO. My only complaints are that it is not a center seat, but I can live with that. You could even modify fairly easily to accommodate a single center seat. I should've had a V12 and I would've preferred a top speed of over 260MPH. It is a super car and branded the successor to the legendary F1, it should be better than F1 to be worthy of its replacement.

Only 375 are being made and one is up for sale on JamesEdition (http://www.jamesedition.com/cars/mclaren/other/p1-for-sale-734918) with a POR(price on request) and I likely won't be getting one anytime soon unfortunately. Maybe one day... :wink:

Here are some specs

Price: $1.15M
Fuel Economy:
0-62(mph): 2.7 secs
Engine: 3.8L Twin Turbo V8(I believe the v8 itself produces around 750hp and the electric produces somewhere around 140hp or so)
Drivetrain: RWD
Top Speed: 221(mph) but limited to 217
Gearbox: Auto with Paddle Shifters

http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130107_0023.jpg
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130107_0026.jpg
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130107_0035.jpg
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130108_0027.jpg
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130108_0031.jpg
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130127_0024.jpg
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130127_0025.jpg
i luv me a big booooooty ;)
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130127_0028.jpg
http://cars.mclaren.com/files/live/sites/MclarenAutomotive/files/contributed/global/gallery/models/P1/Design/McLarenP1_20130127_0032.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/13q1/504449/2014-mclaren-p1-photo-505282-s-787x481.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/13q1/504449/2014-mclaren-p1-photo-505290-s-787x481.jpg
http://media.caranddriver.com/images/13q1/504449/2014-mclaren-p1-interior-photo-505295-s-787x481.jpg

From the James Edition posting:
http://cdn-3.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664275_source.jpg
http://cdn-2.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664274_source.jpg
http://cdn-2.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664277_source.jpg
http://cdn-2.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664280_source.jpg
http://cdn-1.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664276_source.jpg
http://cdn-1.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664279_source.jpg
http://cdn-3.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664281_source.jpg
http://cdn-1.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664282_source.jpg
http://cdn-2.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664283_source.jpg
http://cdn-3.thejameslist.com/data/images/14664278_source.jpg
damn I want to work at that dealership lol

It also kind of eerily reminds me of the 12C but I still like(love) it.

http://cars.mclaren.com/p1.html
2014 McLaren P1 Official Photos and Info ? News ? Car and Driver (http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2014-mclaren-p1-official-photos-and-info-news)