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The name Gordini used to mean something to fans of nimble, spritely European cars. Not unlike Fiat’s Abarth, Gordini was an officially sanctioned tuning garage whose iconic blue-and-white versions of otherwise humble Renault saloons were offered with factory support. Gordinis won races and rallies by the truckload and remain revered by enthusiasts, many of whom were disappointed by the manner in which Renault revived the nameplate.

Whereas Fiat brought Abarth back out of obscurity to produce a range of exquisitely desirable hot hatches, Renault used the Gordini name for a special trim package and little more. We first saw Gordini versions of the Clio RS and Twingo RS – two hot hatches already respected for their giant-slaying capabilities – but now, Renault has announced that the Gordini name will be used for the top spec of the ordinary, run-of-the-mill Twingo, as well.

The new Gordini line will replace what was the GT trim level, applying the legendary blue paint scheme with offset pair of white racing stripes to the bland econo-hatchbacks. We can only hope European buyers will have enough respect for the model to opt for the black or white color options with silver stripes, instead, and let Amédée Gordini rest in peace.

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Sacré Bleu! Renault pawns its heritage with base Twingo Gordini

Sacré Bleu! Renault pawns its heritage with base Twingo Gordini

When cruising at 15.53 miles per hour or slower, an electric car runs virtually silent. Once over that speed, road noise and air moving over the car begin to become prevalent and the car can be “heard” as it travels down the road. That silent running is an intriguing part of the electric car world, but it’s problematic, mostly because those speeds are generally reserved for traffic-clogged cities, parking lots and other areas where pedestrian foot traffic meets automotive. If you are hard of hearing, you might not know that an electric car is heading your way as you step out into the street. Audi is working to prevent this, by incorporating an exterior sound system into its e-tron.

A team of acousticians is hard at work behind Ingolstadt’s closed doors. Their goal is to develop a sound that reflects the brand’s core values. But what does Audi sound like?

According to Christian Schüller, Head of Brand Development/Corporate Identity:

“The obvious approach would be to work on the basis of the familiar sound of a combustion engine. On the other hand, we want to underscore that an electric or hybrid Audi is an innovative product. We also want to make our Vorsprung durch Technik audible in the era of electric mobility.”

Dr. Ralf Kunkel, Head of Acoustics at Audi AG, has a different idea:

“The sounds used for space ships in films are reminiscent of car sounds, yet are also very different, making this a rather interesting approach.”

Kunkel goes on to say that, although it’s unlikely we will see Audis that sound like jets or spaceships, we will hear something unique and “distinctively Audi.” He says to picture the Audi RSQ from the film I, Robot and we should get a good idea of what to expect. Follow the jump for the official press blast.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi’s electric e-tron to get artificial sound

Audi’s electric e-tron to get artificial sound

Earlier this week, we told you about the 2011 Camaros that Chevrolet was bringing to SEMA, and now it’s time to see them up close and personal. Four Camaros are hanging out in Las Vegas this week, and each one provides a very different point of view on Chevy’s pony car.

The Red Flash Show Camaro is a look-at-me V8-powered coupe that will certainly grab your attention out on the road thanks to its modified intake and exhaust system. On the other end of the spectrum is the XM/Accessory Appearance Package V6 Camaro that goes for a more subtle, not-so-flashy styling upgrade. The Synergy Series Camaro is the second version of a once-per-year limited-edition, and it features interior and exterior colors not available on any other model in the Camaro range. Finally, the SSX Track Car Concept rumbles on to the SEMA floor to tease us with the idea of a purpose-built track-day machine. Hop the jump to read more about each iteration, and be sure to check them out in our gallery below.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading SEMA 2010: Chevrolet unveils custom 2011 Camaros

SEMA 2010: Chevrolet unveils custom 2011 Camaros

Say what you will about motor scooters, but twist-and-go is how an inordinate proportion of the world’s population gets around town. Simply put, there is no simpler way of getting through crowded city streets, and let’s face it: city streets are only getting more crowded. With that in mind, BMW – one of the few automakers that builds four-wheeled vehicles as well as two – has unveiled its vision for the next generation of large motor scooters, which it calls Concept C.

Drawing on decades of experience building full-size motorcycles, BMW Motorrad has delved into the scooter market with a fresh concept that brings familiar design cues from its existing lineup of off-road, touring and sport bikes to a commuter form. In short, BMW is “expanding its present motorcycle adventure world to include the big scooter.” Their words, not ours.

Instead of reinventing the wheel as other companies have tried, the Concept C is powered by a conventional two-cylinder engine mated to a continuously-variable transmission, although consideration is being given to future electric powertrains. The front fork features dual disc brakes accompanied by a single disc in the back and supported by ABS. LED headlights illuminate the road ahead, while dual LCD monitors provide the instrumentation.

There’s more to read in the press release after the jump, accompanied by video footage and the high-resolution image mega-gallery below.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW does the twist-and-go with Concept C scooter [w/video]

BMW does the twist-and-go with Concept C scooter [w/video]

Toyota’s official presence here at the SEMA Show was surprisingly full bodied. We’ve seen NASCAR-bred race replicas, hybrids bedecked with body kits and a minivan that claims to have some swagger… and finally we come to the Sportsman. Co-developed with Bass Pro Shops, this four-wheel drive, 5.7-liter-V8-powered Tundra-based behemoth equipped with the optional TRD Rock Warrior package. Oh yeah, and don’t forget about the gigantic deck that pops up and provides hunters with a camo’d perch and hide from which to do their business.

Naturally, there is plenty of storage for firearms, along with fishing gear, bows and arrows. Out back, there’s a fully operational kitchen complete with a gas stove and a sink. There’s plenty of luxury inside, with a weather station, GPS system and a bevy of waterproof speakers. It’s the ultimate Armageddon vehicle, and we want it. Badly. See it in all its glory in our high-res image gallery below.

SEMA 2010: Toyota takes the high ground with the Tundra Sportsman

We weren’t at all surprised when hundreds of lawsuits popped up in the wake of Toyota’s recall of millions of vehicles due to unintended acceleration issues. We’re just as unfazed by the fact that earlier this week, Toyota filed a motion asking that the lawsuits be thrown out. The Detroit Free Press reports that Toyota claims many of the lawsuits are unwarranted due to the fact that some of the plaintiffs hadn’t disclosed acceleration issues prior to the lawsuit. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration claims that there were over 3,000 complaints filed by Toyota owners and at least 89 deaths as a result of accelerator-related defects.

Defendants often file motions to have lawsuits thrown out of court, but will it happen, especially in such a high-visibility case? Hard to say, but any time over 10 million vehicles are recalled globally for such a serious issue, we get the feeling that the courts will remain busy for quite some time.

[Source: The Detroit Free Press]

Report: Toyota requests federal court throw out acceleration lawsuits

Citroën has announced a spate of updates to its compact C3 Picasso mini-minivan, as well as a new special edition to highlight the changes.

Across the range, the C3 Picasso’s engines have been upgraded for increased fuel efficiency and compliance with the latest Euro 5 regulations. A new 110-horsepower 1.6-liter turbo-diesel has also been introduced, while low rolling resistance Michelin Energy Saver tires are fitted as standard equipment across the entire lineup.

Representing the updated Picasso is the new Blackcherry edition, based on the VTR+ model and packing the aforementioned HDi diesel engine. The special edition is distinguished by its black paint scheme with red accents, color-keyed roof rails and 17-inch alloys. Normally optional extras like air conditioning, cruise control and USB/Bluetooth connectivity are featured as standard equipment on the Blackcherry, as well. Full details are available in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Citroën]

Continue reading Citroën launches updated C3 Picasso with special Blackcherry edition

Citroën launches updated C3 Picasso with special Blackcherry edition

Also at the Toyota booth here at the SEMA Show in Vegas, in addition to the pumped-up Prius Plus and the Swagger Wagon Supreme, was the NASCAR-bred, V8-powered, two-door, rear-wheel-drive Camry concept by RK Customs and the equally impressive Tacoma RTR concept.

Both of these machines were created to prove that Toyota can make high-quality performance vehicles, and they rely on their racing heritage to make that statement. Each is powered by a V8 engine; in the case of the Camry, a 358 cubic inch TRD NASCAR powerplant producing 680 horsepower, and as for the Tacoma, a supercharged 5.7-liter with 504 horses lies underhood. You can see each race-bred, red and white street machine in our high-res galleries below.

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

SEMA 2010: Toyota goes Talladega with NASCAR-ified Tacoma and Camry

	Study: Chevy Volt’s “addressable market” for 2011 is 7%, Nissan Leaf’s hits 11% Not who will buy, but who could..		Nissan Leaf vies for Europe’s coveted 2011 Car of the Year award Can it beat the Dacia Duster?
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AutoblogGreen for 11.03.10

Subaru promised a cornucopia of WRXs for SEMA, and it certainly has not disappointed. More than a handful of tuned up Subies are on hand at the automakers booth, and both sedan and hatchback body styles are represented. The two most well known vehicles are the ones you’ve no doubt seen in the news: Travis Pastrana’s New Year’s Eve Jump car and Nürburgring-blazing fastest WRX STI driven by Tommi Makinen. Four other custom ‘Rexes round out Subaru’s SEMA linep.

Kicker has designed an STI with a focus on audio performance, while K&N has brought one that emphasizes street performance. Get More G’s teamed up with SPT to provide the go-fast treatment to a five-door WRX, and Subiefest Best of Show winner, Jamarri Whiteside, was able to display his 2006 Subaru WRX STI beneath the bright lights of the 2010 SEMA show. See them all for yourself in our high-res image gallery.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

SEMA 2010: Subaru tuners bring the goods

Honda has a grand total of 12 different CR-Zs on display at this year’s SEMA show. In addition to the Mugen and Hybrid R we showed you earlier, the Japanese automaker has created the CR-Z with Genuine Honda Accessories and HPD CR-Z Racer, and eight other companies have put their spins on the compact hybrid hatch.

Big name companies like Bisimoto Engineering, DSO Eyewear, Eibach Springs, Fortune Motorsports and Konig Wheels have created their own one-off CR-Zs, accounting for a little less than half of Honda’s overall showing. Two special project CR-Zs are on hand, as well, done up by the folks from Honda Tuning Magazine and the Los Angeles Auto Show.

See the full lot of CR-Zs for yourself in the gallery below, and hit the jump for Honda’s official press release.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading SEMA 2010: Honda brings a surplus of custom CR-Zs

SEMA 2010: Honda brings a surplus of custom CR-Zs

While the wicked E-Rod LSA found its way into a Superformance Grand Sport Coupe at this year’s SEMA show, General Motors decided to plop the company’s new E-Rod LS3 into something a little more traditional. GM yanked the sheets off of an expertly-crafted 1955 Chevrolet pickup street rod. The project started by mating a minty-fresh Dynacorn body with the chassis of a Trailblazer SS. Throw in a 315-horsepower, 335-pound-feet of torque E-Rod LS3 and you’ve got the basic ingredients for one very lust-worthy pickup.

GM says that the new E-Rod LS3 will command a price tag of $7,150 when it arrives in 2011. Hit the jump for the press release.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Zach Bowman / AOL

[Source: GM]

Continue reading SEMA 2010: 1955 Chevrolet E-Rod LS3 Pickup is ready to haul

SEMA 2010: 1955 Chevrolet E-Rod LS3 Pickup is ready to haul

Rick Bottom Designs was given the keys to a 2011 Ford Taurus SHO and the custom car builder decided it wanted to hear more from the Blue Oval sedan. The 365-horsepower EcoBoost V6 has been bumped up by a Hahn Racecraft Stage 1 upgrade package, meaning this SHO is now putting out 465 hp. Re-christened as the SHOx, further modifications include a performance exhaust system, cold air intake kit, large Baer brakes hidden behind 22-inch Axiom forged wheels and a custom body kit.

It’s not the engine, however, that is making all the noise. We said Rick Bottom Designs wanted to hear more from the car… so the tuner installed a 16,000 Watt stereo system capable of blaring the most intense block-rockin’ beats. The car has been modified to a two-plus-two seating arrangement, and we imagine that potential fifth passenger will be glad they now have to walk, since all his or her Taurus SHOx-riding friends are going to be deaf. Cover your ears and check out the SHOx live from SEMA in our gallery below.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

SEMA 2010: Ford Taurus SHOx prescribed for power, side effects include bleeding ears

We’re still not very fond of the Honda Accord Crosstour’s styling, but we’ll be honest – this SEMA-spec HFP concept is pretty darn cool. Riding on 19-inch PDS-10 wheels wrapped in Yokohama ADVAN ST 245/50-series tires, this Crosstour benefits from a lowered sport suspension encompassing new shocks and struts at all four corners, performance front springs and a unique body kit.

Honda says that this modified Crosstour is only a concept, but we won’t be shocked to see some of these factory performance parts show up on the crossover’s spec sheet in the not-too-distant future. After all, if you’re going to drive something as… unique as the Crosstour, why not give it an added dose of individuality? Check it out in our gallery of high-res shots below.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

SEMA 2010: Honda Accord Crosstour HFP Concept is a good answer to a question no one asked

General Motors has grown its E-Rod family by two, adding a 505-horsepower 7.0-liter LS7 and a 556-horsepower 6.2-liter LSA to its line of emissions-friendly V8s. The General chose to show off the new forced-induction engine by plopping the mill in a Superformance Grand Sport replica. With a feathery light curb weight of just 2,500 pounds and a potent 551 pound-feet of torque on tap, this machine should be an absolute tarmac terror. Behind that supercharged small block sits a Tremec six-speed manual transmission and a four-wheel disc brake system designed to bring the whole party to a stop in a hurry.

GM says that it is currently working closely with the California Air Resources Board to ensure that the E-Rod LSA can be used in pre-OBD-II vehicles, allowing specially constructed cars like the Superformance Grand Sport to receive CARB certification. Hit the jump for the full press blast.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Zach Bowman / AOL

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading SEMA 2010: LSA E-Rod powered Superformance Grand Sport Coupe

SEMA 2010: LSA E-Rod powered Superformance Grand Sport Coupe

Chevrolet is out to put the power of customization in its buyers’ hands. The company has announced a theoretical new customization program for every vehicle it sells, from the lowly Aveo to the mammoth Silverado 3500 HD. The Bow Tie pulled the sheets off of a Cruze, Volt and Spark, each of which wore pieces from the company’s new host of custom parts.

The most interesting of the trio is the Volt. GM designers slapped on a set of lower rocker panels, a reworked rear fascia and blacked-out trim accents around the vehicle. Those stylish 19-inch wheels are actually straight from GM, as are the trick rear tail lights.

The Cruze Z-Spec Concept wears a complete body kit, unique paint and a new high-flow grille. Sport springs, a set of super-sexy 19-inch BBS wheels and a Brembo brake system also come along for the ride, as do a set of Recaro racing buckets.

The last of the bunch is something of a quandary, as GM has yet to come out and confirm whether or not the Spark is actually headed to the States. We do know that the pint-sized Chevy will show up in North America though, which may help explain why a custom version of the car is displayed here in Las Vegas. With special body treatments like that rear spoiler and eye-searing orange paint, there’s no mistaking this hatch for its tamer brethren. Hit the jump for the press releases.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Zach Bowman / AOL

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading SEMA 2010: Chevrolet shows off Z-Spec treatment for Volt, Cruze, Spark

SEMA 2010: Chevrolet shows off Z-Spec treatment for Volt, Cruze, Spark

The fastest Cadillac we’ve ever driven wears a V badge on its rear end. Its engine produces 556 horsepower and the car has a top speed of 190 miles per hour. There’s no doubt it’s one of the fastest cars available right now… but not quite fast enough for Spectre Performance. The team at Spectre is trying to break a speed record and they’ve employed Cadillac power to do so. The Spectre Performance Speedliner Bonneville Land Speed Racer boasts a 529 cubic-inch turbocharged Caddy V8 engine, which has been shoehorned into the sleek body of this highly engineered salt flats speedster.

The Speedliner, with its Cadillac mill, was able to hit 336 miles per hour during Bonneville Speed Week earlier in the year – a mind-numbing speed that is still short of the team’s goal. Well short, in fact, as the team hopes to reach a magical 400 mph. Clearly, this is one of the few cars at SEMA 2010 that is all-show and all-go. Check it out for yourself in the gallery below.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

SEMA 2010: Spectre Performance shows off its Bonneville Land Speed Racer

Day One has officially come and gone, and we’ve done our best to provide you, dear reader, with an interesting selection of the kinds of vehicular machinery that can only be seen at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Below you’ll see a sample of the wares we pointed our digital SLR lenses at. Enjoy, and just wait and see what we’ve got in store for you all through the night and into tomorrow!

Chevrolet Corvette Z06X	Chevrolet Camaro SSX	Neiman Marcus Camaro
Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG	Savini Wheels booth	Airhead Kustoms Ford F-350
Ford Taurus Interceptor Stealth	2011 Honda CR-Z Mugen	Toyota Prius Plus
2011 Ford Fiestas	Oakley Designs Ferrari 458	Bio-Hybrid Tracked Hummer
2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid R	Toyota Swagger Wagon Supreme	Chevrolet Corvette Jake Edition

We Obsessively Covered Day One of the…

Jake has quickly become, to the Corvette Racing team, what the Cavallino Rampante is to Ferrari. That skull logo was started off as a discreet emblem back in 2005 and has since come to symbolize the team’s spirit. Chevrolet is now recognizing the iconic icon with the 2011 Corvette Jake Edition Concept.

Chevy started with a Grand Sport coupe then set to work adding Jake-themed touches both inside and out. The black paint is offset nicely by the Competition Gray Z06 wheels and GT1 Championship Edition Jake-logo hood graphic. Those wheels also feature Jake center caps, as do the fenders. Moving to the interior, Jake’s mug can be found on the floor mats and the console lid.

For now, the vehicle remains a concept as some of the accessories have not been put into production. However, they are planned for future release, so stay tuned, Jake fans.

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

SEMA 2010: Chevrolet Corvette Jake Edition Concept is one sinister tribute

Seven million. That’s how many times Toyota’s much-loved Swagger Wagon rap video has been viewed on YouTube. Well, actually, it’s 7,154,749… but who’s counting? With that in mind, it’s not surprising that the Japanese automaker has chosen to outfit its official SEMA floorspace with a customized Sienna dubbed, appropriately enough, Swagger Wagon Supreme.

Actor Brian Huskey, otherwise known as Swagger Dad, was on hand to introduce the stretched and lowered metallic blue Sienna minivan. He started his speech from inside the Wagon, which is decked out with a nicely finished wood floor along with plenty of cabinetry, televisions and computer paraphernalia. See it for yourself in our high-res image gallery below.

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

SEMA 2010: Toyota brings some swagger to Sin City