Richard L. Shaver Blog: April 2017

Sunday, April 30, 2017

Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders

Told through a chorus of over 160 different voices, ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’ by George Saunders follows the aftermath of the death of Abraham Lincoln’s eleven-year-old son Willie in 1862 from typhoid fever during the American Civil War. Willie finds himself … Continue reading →

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Protected: It’s Gonna be May! May Workout Cal that is.

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Thursday, April 27, 2017

Hepatitis B & C

A blood-borne disease such as hepatitis B and C can be passed on by being exposed to contaminated body fluids or by getting injured from sharp objects like needles and scalpels.

Workers in the medical industry are most vulnerable due to constant exposure. In the case of a needle-stick injury or a worker getting infected by getting contaminated blood in their eyes, nose, or mouth, the person must be checked in the emergency room within two hours of exposure.

Image Source: Flickr

How to reduce the risks
An exposure control plan (ECP) should be established in case the workers are exposed to Hepatitis. The hazards of being exposed to Hepatitis and the controls needed to keep people safe depend on the type of work and workplace. Below you’ll see the different types of risk controls you can use, arranged in decreasing order of effectiveness.

Engineering controls
Making physical alterations can help reduce the risks of exposure. Ensure that safety engineered needles are being used, and sharps disposal equipment is accessible.

Administrative controls
Changes in rules and regulations at work, posting awareness materials, and training of workers are all included in administrative controls. Ensure that workers are informed about safety guidelines around picking up and eliminating used sharps.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Because this is the least effective among all control options, another control must be used in conjunction with this one. Ensure that workers use proper PPE every time they work.

Contact:
Working Safety Solutions
#200-4170 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, B.C.
604-320-7850

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2017 Shanghai Auto Show – Best In Show

In case you were unaware, the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, otherwise known as the Shanghai Auto Show, is a pretty big deal. An ongoing event since 1985, Shanghai is biennial in its frequency, taking place during odd-numbered years as a counterbalance to the Beijing Auto Show (a.k.a., Auto China) during even-numbered years. With the meteoric rise of international car brands in the Chinese market place, the Shanghai Auto Show has taken on greater and greater importance over the past few cycles, and all the big makes seem to be getting in on the action. And given the nation’s increasing emphasis on electric vehicles and hybrid technology, it should come as no surprise that those in attendance have responded with a slew of electrified concepts. Here are four of the best from this year’s show (plus a limited-run supercar, just because).

Although crossovers and SUVs were a major theme for 2017, we made sure to include a few fast machines on the list to help even it out. Whether or not the sultry lines and high-tech promises that these design studies bring to the table actually make it to production remains to be seen, but for now, let’s dig into the good stuff from Shanghai.

Continue reading for the best debuts from the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show.

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BMW X5

It wasn’t until 2000 that BMW stepped into the SUV segment with the BMW X5, and after 16 years, that single SUV has spawned four other crossovers, with three slotted in the lineup below it and one above it. Since the X5’s release, it has been through three different generational changes. The first happened in 2006 when the E70 X5 was born for the 2007 model year. That model lasted until 2013 when we were blessed with the current F15 generation of the X5.

Notice that trend between the generational shifts of the X5? Every six years or so, BMW releases a redesigned model. And, that probably explains why we’re looking at these spy shots of what appears to be a very early iteration of the next BMW X5. The SUV in the pictures is in what I like to call “bare-bones testing,” meaning it is covered in camo and missing most of its identifiable features. Even that kidney bean grille has been left at the shop for this trip.

Since it is in the very early stages of testing, there isn’t a whole lot we can say about the next generation of the X5, but we can speculate some. Should BMW follow its current trend, we should see the fourth-generation X5 unveiled in 2018. Until then, let’s take a look at what is going on in these pictures.

Updated 04/27/2017: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming BMW X5 out for a new testing session around Nurburgring.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2018 BMW X5.

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You Can Probably Guess What The World's Best Selling Sports Car Was In 2016

If people were asked to guess what the best-selling sports car in the world is, there’s a good chance that the answers would have as much variety to them as the number of colors in a Skittles pack. The Mazda MX-5 is a good answer. The same goes for the Porsche 911, and at least for new models, the BMW 4 Series. All three models have proven to be popular among buyers all over the world, but none of them can lay claim to being the best-selling sports car in the world. That title now belongs to a certain muscle car from Dearborn, the Ford Mustang.

It seems to strange to think that it took this long for the Mustang to ascend to being the best-selling sports car in the world considering that it’s been around since 1964. But the current-generation Mustang has done the car’s legacy right because according to IHS Markit new vehicle registration data, over 150,000 Mustangs were sold all over the world in 2016. That figure represented a six percent increase from its 2015 sales figures. Equally impressive is the Mustang’s sales volume internationally where sales literally doubled in 2016 to 45,000 units. The significant increase is largely tied to the muscle car’s growing popularity in China where sales of the ‘Stang grew by an impressive 74 percent from its 2015 numbers. Other countries like Germany also saw increased demand for the car while new markets like Bonaire, Gibraltar, and New Caledonia all contributed in driving up the car’s sales volume.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Subaru Ascent

It’s no longer a secret that Subaru wants to bring the seven-passenger SUV back to the U.S., but the 2017 New York Auto Show confirms that the vehicle is very close to arriving in dealerships. Specifically, Subaru announced that the Ascent concept will go on sale in 2018 as a spiritual successor for the Tribeca. Based on the Viziv-7 concept showcased in 2016, the Ascent is much closer to production form, but it will likely lose some of its features before hitting the assembly line.

Subaru’s confirmation of the seven-seat SUV and Ascent name comes after 64 months of consecutive record-breaking sales in the United States. The Japanese firm has been growing slowly but steady in North America, and it now needs to step into new markets to keep the hype alive. A seven-seat hauler seems like a safe bet, especially with not so many companies offering this type of layout nowadays. The Ascent will be built at Subaru of Indiana plant in Lafayette and won’t be sold outside North America. Until the production model arrives, let’s find out more about the concept car in the review below.

Continue reading to learn more about the Subaru Ascent concept.

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Genesis Boss Snubs His Nose On Halo Cars, As He Should

Halo cars have always been a big thing in the auto industry, largely because they represent the pinnacle of what an automaker is capable of. There’s always been room for them in the business, and there will always be room for them for as long as pride and vanity remain true to a company’s beliefs. So it is surprising, maybe eve a little refreshing, to see a company boss not only dismiss the notion of halo cars, but outright shoot down any plans for his brand ever making one. That much was made clear by Genesis global brand chief Manfred Fitzgerald, who promised that Hyundai’s new luxury brand would be all about incredible design, top-class luxury, and unrivaled customer service.

Speaking with Motoring, Fitzgerald made no bones about his disinterest in developing a go-fast halo model, calling them meaningless to the kind of customers that Genesis wants to bring into its fold. Or in his own words, “if you need a halo vehicle and all that, that’s not our spiel.” Instead of going down that route, Fitzgerald wants Genesis to focus its attention on making “great products” that its customers will appreciate. Ironically, Genesis is setting its sights on companies like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi, three car brands that have their own histories with halo models. Then again, these brands are also established enough to build halo models without compromising the integrity of their core lineups, whereas Genesis is still trying to lay a solid foundation for itself as Hyundai’s new luxury brand.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Mazda MX-5 by BBR Motorsport

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is considered one of the most popular sports cars in the business, regardless of segment. The Miata’s popularity has lasted for almost three decades and the recent release of the fourth-generation MX-5 shows that its status in the business is showing no signs of abating. In fact, the MX-5 is so popular that British tuner BBR has made a good business out of developing and building aftermarket programs for the Japanese sports car since its inception in 1989. Fast forward to 2017 and BBR is at it again with a new kit for the MX-5 that helps the roadster attain power levels in the neighborhood of 248 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque.

Before those figures get lost in the scope of BBR’s tuning kit, consider that the tuner actually presented a similar program for the MX-5 not too long ago. Yep, back in September 2016, the British tuner unveiled two programs for the roadster: the Super 200 and the Super 200+. That "+" meant it peaked with an output of 214 ponies and 183 pound-feet of twist. It certainly didn’t take BBR long to outdo what it did only seven months ago, but the best thing about this new kit is that it may not be the last one that BBR has up its sleeve as far as the MX-5 Miata is concerned. This program does, after all, come with a “Stage 1” level so expect higher stages to come in the coming months.

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Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Launched in 2013, the current Mercedes-Benz S-Class has brought many innovations to the market. It also arrived in dealerships as a sportier, yet more comfortable proposition to the previous-gen S-Class, being praised for its fantastic ride, effortless acceleration, and the enormous amount of luxury and tech. In 2013, it had no rival, but BMW launched a new 7 Series in 2016, while Cadillac joined the full-size segment with the CT6. As a result, Mercedes-Benz updated the S-Class for the 2018 model year.

Although it’s safe to say that the outgoing S-Class was still competitive against its newer rivals, an update was necessary, especially in the tech department. That’s not to say that the S-Class was outdated, it’s just that Merc launched a range of new features with the latest E-Class, including semi-autonomous driving, that had to be offered in the top-of-the-line sedan too. Alongside the new tech, Mercedes also introduced a couple of new engines for the U.S. market and a new diesel for Europe. The facelift is rounded off by mild design upgrades and a revised model lineup.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2018 Mercedes S-Class.

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Lexus LS 500 F Sport

Lexus’ oldest nameplate, having been launched in 1989, the LS moved into its fifth-generation in January 2017 at the Detroit Auto Show. Redesigned after a record ten years of minor changes, the LS is now sportier and more stylish than ever, and its interior is on par with what the competition has to offer. But, unlike its predecessor, a V-8 is no longer under the hood, having been replaced by a more powerful, yet more efficient V-6 drivetrain. Offered in both gasoline and hybrid variants, the LS is now also available in F Sport trim. But even though it has a somewhat more aggressive exterior and acts as a range topper, the F Sport isn’t as special as Lexus wants us to believe.

The reason for that is that the F Sport badge doesn’t bring much beyond the blacked-out exterior trim and a few special features on the inside. Sure, there are a few chassis tweaks to talk about, but the engine and transmission are as stock as they get. The problem with this is that the F Sport badge deserves a bit of extra oomph and it’s imperative that Lexus comes up with a way to give Mercedes-Benz and BMW a run for their money in the performance department too. With the new BMW M760Li and Mercedes-AMG S63 around with fresh gear, the LS 500 F Sport will have a hard time making a name for itself.

Continue reading to learn more about the Lexus LS 500 F Sport.

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Genesis GV80 Concept

Hyundai’s luxury Genesis brand entered the market with two impressive sedans — the G90 and G80 — and the company’s latest concept car from the 2017 New York Auto Show is here to confirm that the Korean company is set to keep its promise and release four more vehicles by 2020. Dubbed GV80, Genesis’ new concept is the first SUV to wear the badge and previews a competitor for the BMW X5.

Described as a vehicle that "strikes a perfect balance between elegance and versatility," the GV80 is a rather sporty proposition and represents a significant departure from Genesis’ current design language. “The GV80 Concept is an SUV that alludes to the confidence and evolution of the Genesis brand – its design is timeless, with an understated yet dynamic overall surface complexity,” said Head of Genesis design, Luc Donckerwolke.

Alongside the exquisite exterior design, the concept car also features an innovative infotainment display, as well as a hydrogen propulsion system. The latter remains a mystery, unfortunately, but it’s a sign that Hyundai’s alternative drivetrain tech will soon find its way into Genesis products.

Continue reading to learn more about the Genesis GV80 concept.

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Is Ferrari Preparing To Use The "GTO" Name Once Again?

There are certain model name near and dear to Ferrari’s heart. You can tell this by how often (or sparingly) the company uses them. A case can be made that one of the most important names in Maranello’s portfolio is Gran Turismo Omologato, or more popularly known by its acronym, GTO. To date, Ferrari has only used the GTO name three times, most recently in 2011 with the 599 GTO, which joined the 250 GTO and the 288 GTO as the only Prancing Horse models with this nomenclature. Prepare yourselves though, because we could be seeing a fourth GTO model on the horizon.

While there’s no confirmation yet on Ferrari’s plans, Autocar reported that Maranello is preparing a hardcore version of its 488 super car and the name that’s being considered is 488 GTO. It would certainly make sense to bring back the GTO name for such a model, distinguish with Ferrari’s “more power, less weight” credo. That usually translates to the car being faster and more powerful than its standard guise. There’s no official word yet on how much power the 488 GTO is slated to pack, but the goal it seems is to get it up to north of 700 horsepower, giving at least 40 extra ponies to work with compared to the 488 GTB. At the very least, the expected power goals will put the 488 GTO well above the Lamborghini Huracán 640-4 Performante and a cartwheel away from the 710-horsepower McLaren 720S.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Chevrolet Cruze RS - Driven

The Chevrolet Cruze was not hurting for fans. As its first generation neared the end of its run in 2014, Cruze sales reached their high point, with more than 273,000 copies sold. Curious, then, that the Cruze suffered a setback in sales when it was redesigned in 2016 for the 2017 model year. Having spent a week with it recently, I can say that confuses me. The Cruze got sexy new sheet metal, a more-efficient powertrain, a new hatchback model, and improved ride and handling when it was redesigned. Yet, it sold fewer than 200,000 copies for the first time ever in 2016, if you don’t count its late introduction in 2010 when it was on sale for just three months. So, what gives?

Continue reading to learn more about the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze RS.

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Subaru Outback

Subaru has been doing remarkably well lately, posting impressive growth and sales numbers over the past several years. Helping to fuel that success is a strong stable of vehicles that cover a broad range of segments, including a few that manage to straddle the line between segments and still offer the benefits of both. The Outback is one such vehicle. Framed as the “World’s First Sport Utility Wagon,” the Outback nameplate has been around since 1994 and is currently the brand’s top-selling model, bringing all the capability and utility of a crossover, but in a wagon body style that’s a little closer to a traditional passenger car. It’s a nice combo, and to keep it feeling fresh, Subaru unveiled a mid-cycle update for the Outback at the 2017 New York International Auto Show, giving it new styling, an updated interior, more technology for safety and convenience, and a few bits and pieces that lend it a more premium feel.

The appeal for something like this is clear, and on paper, it looks like it should do well amongst buyers looking for a non-SUV that fits their particular active lifestyle. But does the 2018 Outback have what it takes to steal sales from folks more inclined to get a crossover? Read on for details.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2018 Subaru Outback.

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Be a Loyal Lexus Customer and you Might end up Getting your own Special Edition Car

Automakers show different ways of appreciation to their loyal customers. Some treat them to special events. Some give them discounts on their purchases. Some do a combination of both. Then there’s Lexus, which not only treated one of its loyal customers with a car of his own, but an actual one-of-one creation built and developed specifically for him. The car in question is a Lexus LS 600h, although it’s more formally known as the Lexus LS 600h L Centenary Celebration Edition. It was built for Barry High OBE, who had just celebrated his 100th birthday and whose landmark centenary is the official inspiration behind the one-of-a-kind Lexus LS 600h L.

Apparently, the celebrant is one of Lexus’ most loyal customers, a distinction he earned for his loyalty to the Toyota-owned Japanese luxury brand. In the last 16 years alone, the man has reportedly bought as many as 25 Lexus models from the Lexus Cheltenham dealership alone. There’s no word on how many Lexus models he’s owned over the course of his life, but the fact that he’s been purchasing from the same brand for years was all the reason Lexus needed to honor him with his very own one-off LS 600h L that’s about as exclusive as Lexus model is going to get. The car itself didn’t come cheap as the celebrant reportedly spent close to £100,000 for it. That converts to about $128,000, which is right around the price of the standard model.

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Here's How the Mazda Miata's Retractable Hardtop Works

So the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is here – hallelujah! This is the hard-top model Miata loyalists have been wanting for four generations now. The RF, or Retractable Fastback, combines the closed-roof quietness and all-year functionality mixed directly with an open-air driving experience on warmer days. But how did Mazda squeeze a folding hard-top into the impossibly small Miata?

The answer: very smartly. In fact, the mechanical bits and electric motors that operate the top, along with the actual aluminum top section and rear glass, all fold neatly into the space already reserved for the conventional soft top. That’s impressive.

What’s more, the Miata RF only compromises 0.1 cubic feet of trunk space over the soft-top model. And no, your luggage runs zero risk of getting smashed by the retracting mechanicals. The trunk is completely separate from the top’s storage compartment. Of course, don’t expect to haul home a bulk purchase of mega-roll toilet paper; the trunk only has 4.6 cubic feet of space.

Operating the top only takes about 13 seconds. A dash-mounted toggle switch does the deed. The car just has to be rolling below six mph. Want to see it in action? Keep reading for the full step-by-step process.

Continue reading for a video of the Miata RF’s Targa top.

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BMW X7

When BMW joined the SUV market with the X5 back in 1999, little did we know that the German manufacturer will become such an important player in this segment. But in 15 years, the Bavarian brand has launched no fewer than four different crossovers. At least two more are underway as of 2017, with the X7 to join the family as a range topper, above the popular X5 and the sportier X6. The SUV was already spotted on public roads and we have just enough info to speculate as to what it may bring to the table.

The Bavarian brand made an announcement about the X7 in 2014, when it revealed that it will be built at its plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, which also produces the X3, X5, X5 M, X6, and X6 M models. Although production was initially planned to start in 2016, it appears that the X7 will hit the assembly line later, most likely in 2017. There’s no word as to when the X7 will make its public debut, but I expect it to break cover in the second half of 2017, meaning it could go on sale for the 2019 model year. When it arrives in showrooms, it will become BMW’s largest offering yet and will enable the German manufacturer to compete against SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, Range Rover, and even the Cadillac Escalade.

Updated 04/25/2017: Our spy photographers spotted the upcoming X7 out for a new testing session around Nurburgring.

Continue reading to learn more about the upcoming BMW X7.

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Monday, April 24, 2017

Five Awesome Vehicles from Barrett-Jackson's 2017 West Palm Beach Auction

The Barrett-Jackson auction recently went down in West Palm Beach, Florida, and while the auction of the first-ever 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE was my main focus, there were plenty of other vehicles that fought for my attention. For two days I walked the 100 acres of the South Florida Fair Grounds looking at iron from every decade in motoring history. There were old Rolls Royces, Mercedes, and even a few Ferraris. Just feet away were iconic American muscle cars with hot-cammed V-8 thumping out unburned hydrocarbons and more than a few classic pickups and SUVs.

Of course, you know Barrett-Jackson is one of the largest traveling auctions in the country. It hammers bids on thousands of classic vehicles every year, some with million-dollar price tags. Barrett-Jackson visits locations including the Northeast, Las Vegas, Scottsdale, and obviously West Palm Beach, each year. The auctioneers, staff, and equipment all travel. The vehicles are generally more regional, with tons of locals and residents of nearby states looking to sell their stuff. The variety is nearly limitless.

Also limitless is my taste for history and cars. Combine the two, and I’m lost in a dizzying whirlwind of want and desire. Sadly, I wasn’t registered to bid (my wife might say thankfully). That didn’t stop me from looking, though, and look I did! Here are my five favorite vehicles from the auction.

Continue reading for the list

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Pininfarina Isn't Messing Around, Unveils Two More Concept Models With HKG

Apparently, being under new ownership has breathed some new life to Pininfarina. Long regarded as one of the best auto design houses in the business, the Italian company has since ratcheted up its concept production with a pair of new concepts for its new automotive BFF, Chinese company Hybrid Kinetic Group. It wasn’t that long ago that the two companies joined together to present the H600 sedan, which debuted at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. Now we’re seeing two more concepts, the K550 and the K750.

Presented at the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show, both the K550 and the K750 join the H600 in what could turn into an impressive electric vehicle lineup for the fledgling HKG brand. The two-row, five-seater K550, in particular, is presented as a five-seat crossover concept powered by an electric powertrain that itself is being developed by HKG. The same goes for the much larger K750, which rides taller and longer than its counterpart, thanks in part to having three rows of seating that can accommodate up to seven people. Both models aren’t expected to arrive anytime soon, but like the H600, there appears to be some optimism coming from both Pininfarina and HKG that we’ll end up seeing these models hit the road in production guise soon.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Get Your Simplified Lightness On With The Lotus Exige Cup 380

Lotus has been pumping out successively quicker iterations of the Exige for several years now, including the Sport 350 unveiled in 2015, and the Sport 380 that dropped early last year. The latest is this – the Exige Cup 380, a car Lotus is calling the “ultimate track-and-back street-legal Lotus.” Essentially an even more focused iteration of the Sport 380, the Cup 380 once again strives for that tried-and-true Lotus performance philosophy, striking a balance between street-legal road car and track-burning race car. It’s a lithe supercar killer sporting revised aero and even less weight, making for a spec sheet absolutely worthy of the green and yellow badge glued to the nose.

The big selling point here is the car’s power-to-weight ratio, with 355 horsepower available to motivate 1 metric ton (2,205 pounds) of curb weight. That means it’ll hit 60 mph in as little as 3.4 seconds, while top speed is rated at 175 mph. But, in addition to lots of straight-line performance, the Lotus also offers lots of stick, generating as much as 200 kg (441 pounds) at speed thanks to an extensive rework of the exterior wings and spoilers. That’s an increase of 43 percent compared to the Exige Sport 380, and combined with more rubber in the rear, the Cup 380 should be an absolute riot on the track. Read on for more info.

Continue reading for the full story.

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Jeep Joining The Hybrid Bandwagon Is Proof That The Hybrid Revolution Is In Full Swing

Some automakers are synonyms with specific characteristics. Ferrari and Lamborghini are synonymous with Italian power and performance. Rolls-Royce and Bentley are quintessential marquees known for their opulence and luxury. Then there’s Jeep, which is known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. It figures then that when news first broke in 2015 that Jeep was going hybrid with some of its models, it was, to say the least, jarring to the senses. Fast forward to the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show and we finally get to see what a Jeep hybrid looks like in the form of the Yuntu, a three-row, seven-seater, full-sized SUV concept that’s laying the groundwork for a new era in the company’s long and illustrious history.

To be clear, there’s no official word yet from Jeep about the production prospects of the Yuntu Concept. There is, however, a strong possibility that we’re headed in that direction anyway. Remember, Jeep CEO Mike Manley has been a strong advocate of dipping the company in the hybrid market, most recently confirming at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show the arrival of a hybrid version of the Wrangler. The Yuntu, of course, is far different from the Wrangler, both in aesthetics and purpose. But the mere sight of the concept in Shanghai is an indication that the brand has a more elaborate hybrid plan that will involve numerous models receiving this specific powertrain. Just goes to show how brand images are now giving way to addressing the future of the auto industry.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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LEDs Dominate The Conversation On The Audi E-Tron Sportback Concept

Most concept vehicles are largely created because the automaker wants to promote something for future production vehicles. That formula has been tried and tested so many years that it’s become normal for people like us to expect them. Such is the case with Audi’s new E-Tron Sportback Concept, which is actually promoting a lot of things, not the least of which is the company’s overarching electric crossover agenda. But there is one aspect about the E-Tron Sportback Concept that Audi really wants us to pay attention to. It’s the LED lights, and for what they’re all worth, there are a lot of them.

Audi hasn’t said exactly how many light emitting diodes the concept has at its disposal, but the front bumper alone has around 250 LEDs that extend from one end of the bumper to the other. More LEDs are located on either side of the grille, including Audi’s actual four rings logo. Yes, the Audi logo is made from LEDs, and that’s not even counting the number of LEDs that have been packed on both the headlights and taillights.

According to Audi, the LEDs were added to the concept to showcase different lighting patterns that we may or may not see in future production models. These patterns work to communicate with other cars on the road, which itself is a novelty that could find its way on a production model of the coupe-crossover concept should it get that far.

The smart money is to wait and see how the technology evolves from here on out. These many LEDs may look good on a concept, but the costs of packing all of them on a production model could determine whether they’re feasible or not. Make no mistake though, the visual appeal of all these lights on a concept is evident; the only question is whether Audi deems them reasonable enough to become fixtures – no pun intended – on its future models.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Fast Facts About The Fast And Furious Franchise

When The Fast and the Furious opened in cinemas back in 2001, few people, if any at all, thought that it would turn into a global cinematic juggernaut. And yet here we are, 16 years and eight movies into becoming the most bankable movie franchise this side of super heroes and that galaxy far, far away.

The sheer might of the Fast and Furious franchise was on full display with the release of The Fate of the Furious, the eighth installment in the franchise and the movie that just zoomed its way to a record-breaking, $532-million opening weekend. If you thought you’d never see the day a Fast movie would beat out a Star Wars movie in opening weekend returns, well, it just happened.

Beyond the rarefied air that the franchise has achieved, there are still a lot of things about it that most of its fans are unaware of. Consider this then as a guide to a lot of important facts about the movies franchise that should give its fans a new-found appreciation of the many things, events, and what-could-have-beens that shaped the world of the Fast and Furious universe.

I mean, did you know that Vin Diesel wasn’t even the first choice to play the role of Domenic Toretto?

Well then…

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Mitsubishi Evo X Does Quarter Mile In 8.48 Seconds, Sets Record, Melts Face: Video

Enthusiasts the world over shed a tear when Mitsu killed off the rally-bred Lancer Evolution last year. After 10 generations and nearly a quarter century of bringing high-tech speed to the masses, you could say we were growing rather fond of the Japanese imports. Thankfully, even with production now ended, Evo owners are still pushing the limits of what’s possible with the platform. The latest evidence of this comes from Texas and the TX2K17 drag racing event, where one Evo X managed to set a new world record by doing the quarter mile in an astonishing 8.48 seconds at 164 mph.

Documentation of the new record comes courtesy of 1320 Video, which put together this superb three-and-a-half minute bit of evidence, complete with tons of runs, lots of hard launches, and plenty of pleasing noises. The video starts with rollouts, which offer good prep for the later, more serious runs. The video then follows the Evo’s progress towards quicker and quicker ETs, ending with the record-setting 8.48. Watching this thing scoot down the strip is pretty awesome, especially when you consider the pilot is working a five-speed manual, rather than a sequential shifter. We can’t wait to see where it goes next.

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Fiat 500 Abarth Ares by Pogea Racing

The Fiat 500 Abarth is a cute little ride, isn’t it? It certainly looks the part of one, but being cute and cuddly isn’t the only thing appealing about the 500. It’s also understatedly customizable, which is why we’ve seen so many special edition iterations of the car, not to mention tuning programs from some of the best tuners in the business. Pogea Racing counts itself in the latter group, and it has a real doozy of a kit for the 500 that gives the subcompact hatchback an output of 405 horsepower and 328 pound-feet of torque. Seems fitting then that Pogea Racing has dubbed this creation as “Ares,” after the Greek god of war. This Fiat 500 Abarth is ready to rumble with the best of them.

The program has more than just a fancy name and ridiculous power at its disposal. It also has an extensive menu of carbon fiber parts for the exterior, a well-dressed interior that brings some life to the hatchback’s cabin, and suspension upgrades to help the car’s 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder handle all that extra power.

The bad news is that this isn’t a program that Pogea Racing is producing in big quantities. On the contrary, the tuner only plans to build five such 500 Ares models and the cost of building one doesn’t come cheap. The upgrades to the engine alone cost more than the car itself so you can imagine what the whole thing will fetch for, donor car and all.

Then again, a 405-horsepower Fiat 500 Abarth doesn’t come cheap, nor should it.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Lincoln Navigator

The days of a worn-out, aging Navigator are gone. Lincoln has finally given its full-size luxury SUV a proper makeover, complete with a high-horsepower EcoBoost V-6, an upscale appearance and perhaps the classiest interior ever seen in the American SUV segment. Of course, the new Navigator is based on Ford’s all-new Expedition. Both share a new high-strength steel frame, aluminum construction for the body, and Ford’s new 10-speed automatic transmission. Cadillac has held the luxury SUV torch for years with its well-regarded Escalade, but Lincoln could soon be taking the lead.

“Quiet luxury is both a look and a feeling. The all-new Navigator embodies both.” That’s what Lincoln president Kumar Galhotra said about the Navigator when it debuted at the 2017 New York Auto Show. He continued, saying, “The sleek styling, spacious interior, and technology are all designed to make each trip effortless.”

Lincoln has worked tirelessly to build back its reputation of class, elegance, and that old-school charm. Take those Matthew McConaughey commercials, for example. He’s wearing a suit – tie gone, collar undone – hand sprawled over the steering wheel after a long day at some white-collar position in a successful career built over time. It’s smooth jazz music playing softly with rain falling on an empty city street; it’s a mellow yet engaging game of poker and coming away with the winning hand. “The feeling stays with you,” the commercial says. It’s this modern, minimalistic yet richly decorated idea of luxury Lincoln is attempting to tie to its brand image. Regardless of the advertisements, if Lincoln keeps building vehicles like the Navigator, the idea should stick.

Keep reading for the full run-down of Lincolns’ newest seven-seater.

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After Watching This Video, We're Pretty Sure that Russia is Building a Terminator

Remember what happened in the Terminator timeline? Well, let me sum it up for you right quick: Humans built AI and Robots, robots and AI became self-aware, Robots and AI determined that humans were a threat. Next thing you know, robots are exterminating humans in the future and humans are hacking said robots to send them into the past to fight other robots that are there to change the past. It’s an all-out, robot-on-human temporal warfare. In the 1980s and 1990s, this all seemed like fun science fiction, but the future is here folks, and Russia is well on its way to building a full-fledged terminator minus the organic, human-like skin, of course.

I mean, seriously, this thing can shoot guns, drive a car, workout, and at one point in the video, you see it using a syringe and a drill to do other somewhat complex tasks. As you can see, it’s not exactly perfect when it comes to using the tools, but it’s pretty damn accurate with a gun and apparently drives pretty well too. According to the video, the robot is being designed as part of a peaceful space mission, but if that’s the case, why has it been programmed to shoot guns? If history has taught us anything, when it comes to war, humans will use whatever technology they have to get an advantage over the enemy. I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t put it past Russia to use something like this as a weapon. But, for now, take a look at the video and let us know what you think in the comments section below…

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Jay Leno Goes Ultimate Bad Ass In The USSV Rhino GX: Video

Presence. Do you wanna be seen? Do you wanna drive around in something that can blot out the sun like it’s a solar eclipse? Then U.S. Specialty Vehicles has what you need. Say hello to the Rhino GX, a seven-foot tall, eight-foot wide, 9,600-pound, quarter-million dollar slab of America ready to roll over anything in its way. Based on the Ford Super Duty F-450, this thing is rocking custom steel body panels, composite fender flares, and custom-made forged one-piece wheels, all of which lend it a military-grade aesthetic that’s sure to turn heads. The suspension is new as well, with hydraulic components replacing the stock set-up, but the drivetrain and engine are both factory fresh with a 6.7-liter powerplant and 4WD grip. It’s also 100 percent street legal, and offers impressive opulence and space in the cabin, all of which Jay Leno gets to experience firsthand in this episode of Jay Leno’s Garage.

“This is great for dropping your kid off at soccer practice, if your kid’s on the prison team,” Jay starts the video. Hit play and you’ll get an in-depth look at how U.S.S.V. puts these things together, and what it’s like to bash around on the streets of Los Angeles. The video also features the Rhino XT, a modified four-door Jeep prototype that was featured in ‘The Fate of the Furious.’ Rhino is ramping up production of the XT now, blessing it with a supercharged V-6 engine, larger Toyo tires, and more of those custom forged wheels.

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Toyota's Fun Concept Is What Our Camry Should Have Looked Like

I’ll get this out of the way: I’m not a fan of the new Toyota Camry’s design. I know it runs counter to what most have said about the sedan, but I’m not sold on it. The new Camry may look more alive than its ho-hum predecessors, but it feels like Toyota just threw in design pieces from a lot of its other models and decided to adopt it for the new Camry. The result is a little messy and lacks the kind of aesthetic consistency that, say, the Honda Accord has in sprinkles. Fast forward to the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show and there’s a model from Toyota called the Fun Concept. I say that’s what the Camry should have looked like from the very beginning.

I know it’s a concept, so there’s more design leeway there to be forward-thinking, but if you look at it, there’s little that’s overbearingly futuristic about the Fun Concept’s design that Toyota couldn’t have adopted on the production version of the Camry. The sharp, slanted headlight configuration already has similarities to the Toyota Mirai and the sharp bumper, grille, and intakes all provide the kind of aggressive design nods that elevate the concept’s sporty and refined look. As a whole, the Fun Concept already looks like it’s ready to hit production anytime soon. There are even some whispers in Shanghai that indicate it’s in the auto show to provide a small glimpse into the future of the Camry in the Chinese market. If it does end up that way, it’s going to feel like a missed opportunity for Toyota as far as the U.S. market is concerned.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Sunday, April 23, 2017

Man Booker International Reviews: Part 4 (and the official shortlist)

The official Man Booker International Prize shortlist of six books was announced on Thursday: Compass by Mathias Enard (translated from the French by Charlotte Mandell) A Horse Walks Into a Bar by David Grossman (translated from the Hebrew by Jessica Cohen) The … Continue reading →

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Watch Out Nissan Qashqai, the Opel Grandland X Is Here!

While we’re busy checking out the new cars and concepts introduced at the Shanghai Auto Show, Opel unveiled the new Grandland X crossover ahead of its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this autumn. Developed as a replacement for the outdated and already discontinued Antara, the Grandland X is the third crossover that Opel unleashed in recent months. It follows the updated Mokka X and the Crossland X, the latter being a Meriva replacement repackaged into an SUV.

Interestingly enough, this 4x4 offensive comes just as Opel was sold by General Motors to the PSA Group. Getting back to the vehicle in question, the Grandland X is rather familiar, sporting much of the company’s current design language (seen on most Buicks too). Given the size, it will go against the highly popular Nissan Qashqai, the Kia Sportage, and the newly unveiled Citroen C5 Aircross. The latter rides on the same architecture.

Continue reading for the full story.

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Warm Up Those Sub-Light Engines, We're Going For A Ride – Examining The Vehicles From ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi'

Can you feel it? The nerdiness is growing stronger. Every passing day brings us a little closer to the release of ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi,’ and soon, we’ll all have a juicy heap of fresh pew-pew to indulge in. But before the official release on December 15th, we’re whetting out appetites with the first trailer, which arrives chock-full of laser-filled awesomeness designed to up your midi-chlorian count to remarkable new levels. We’ve examined the two-minute teaser in-depth and picked out all the cool vehicles contained within, because like you, we’re suckers for sci-fi engineering.

In total, we saw seven types of ships and vehicles worth talking about, including old favorites, and a few previously unseen machines we can’t wait to learn more about. Like any good trailer, ‘The Last Jedi’ left us with more questions than answers, but that’s half the fun right?

The speculation is strong with this one, so read on.

Continue reading to learn more about the vehicles from the ‘The Last Jedi’ trailer.

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If Self-Driving Cars Are Scary, how do you Feel About Autonomous Fighter Jets?

It wasn’t long ago that we heard about F-16 fighter jets functioning as drones to serve as realistic targets to help fine tune new weapons integrated into the F-35 fighter jet. But, that just wasn’t enough for old Uncle Sam, and now Lockheed Martin has announced that an F-16 drone as not only successfully flown in formation with a manned F-35 but planned and executed an air-to-ground assault and then returned to formation once its mission was complete. What’s really crazy, however, is that the F-16 drone also identified an air threat, engaged in combat, and then proceeded to complete its original mission.

That’s right! Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force has teamed up and can now modify an F-16 fighter jet to not only fly on its own but engage in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat all on its own. It can assess threats as they come and deal with them accordingly all on its own. Reportedly, the drone makes use of Lockheed’s advanced collision avoidance system to ensure the safety of other manned aircraft in formation. Captain Andrew Petry of the Air Force Research Lab said, “We’ve not only shown how an Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle can perform its mission when things go as planned but also how it will react and adapt to unforeseen obstacles along the way.”

This is a big deal in more ways than one, so keep reading to learn more.

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Find Out Why "The Fate of the Furious" Stinks In Three Minutes

I like movies with cars, especially if they’re packed with chase scenes. Who wouldn’t, right? But I’m old enough to consider "Bullitt" and "Gone in 60 Seconds" (the 1974 film, not the cheesy remake from 2000) masterpieces and "The Fast and the Furious" franchise highly overrated. I admit that the original movie was interesting and the idea somewhat fresh, but it went downhill from there. And, the saddest part is that the producers don’t know where to stop. Things got pretty ridiculous with Tokyo Drift, but they just kept making movies. Paul Walker’s death didn’t change a thing, and even before Furious 7 was out, it was confirmed that an eighth installment is underway.

I watched it the other day and boy, a tutorial on how to change headlamps on an AMC Gremlin is far more entertaining. "The Fate of the Furious" has no logic, defies physics (and not in a fun way like Looney Tunes’ Road Runner character), and has awful CGI effects compared to recent releases like "Mad Max: Fury Road." I don’t know what the specific audience for this movie is, but based on some of the rave reviews, they settle for soooo little. And, you know what, I’m not even going to bother coming up with a proper review for this piece a crap. It’s not worth my time. FF8 stinks, and that’s that! If you want authentic car action, give "Bullitt," "The Italian Job," and "Gone in 60 Seconds" (again, I’m talking about the original 1974 movie) a go. Or, watch some drag racing. Heck, just rewatch all those teasers for the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, they’re far more entertaining.

As for the Fast and Furious production team, get a freakin’ TV series already!

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Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX is one of those sporty sedan rally cars that every enthusiast should drive at least once in their life. It went through a generational shift for the 2015 model year that made it even better, bringing new exterior looks, a longer A-Pillar, LED exterior lighting, a roomier interior, better outward visibility, and a new 2.0-liter four-banger that was 0.5-liters smaller than the outgoing unit but offered three extra ponies and 14 extra pound-feet which really helped to offset the 50+ pound weight gain than came with the new-gen model. It’s only been a couple of years since the new-gen model hit showrooms, and Subie has been busy putting together some minor revisions for the 2018 model year. There’s no power gain to speak of, unfortunately, but there is some minor exterior styling updates, improved suspension setup, updated manual transmission, and a new optional Performance pack – the latter of which you really want to know about if you’re hoping to ride off into the sunset with a new WRX.

So, while there isn’t a lot of big news in the aesthetics department, the mechanical bits under the metal got some serious reworking, and it’s exactly what the doctor ordered. Plus there are upgraded interior materials, a new rear-seat armrest (with cup holders,) and a few updates to help cut down on unwanted noise bleed through from the road For those of you into technology, the infotainment display has grown up a bit as well, with the screen size in base trims growing by 1.5 inches while the screen in the Premium trim grows by 0.8 inches.

For a mid-cycle update, there’s actually quite a bit to talk about when it comes to the WRX. Oh, and before I forget, the WRX STI also got some significant updates, so if you’re looking to get your hands on one of those, our man Jonathan Lopez has all of the details in his full review of that 300-horsepower beast here. Anyway, let’s scroll down and see what the 2018 Subaru WRX has to offer!

Update: 4/20/2017: Subaru has announced pricing for the 2018 Subaru WRX. Check out the prices section below to learn just how much it’ll cost you to roll out in a brand-new Subie!

Continue reading to learn more about the Subaru WRX.

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Citroen C5 Aircross Bows in China, Comes to Europe in 2018

SUVs and crossovers are still gaining traction on the market, and it’s no surprise that more and more automakers are rolling out such products. Citroen is one of them, and it just launched the C5 Aircross at the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show. Bigger than the upcoming C3 crossover (as the name itself suggest), the C5 Aircross is based on the same EMP2 architecture as the Peugeot 3008, DS 7 Crossback, and Vauxhall Grandland X. Set to go on sale in China this year and in Europe in 2018, the C5 Aircross is aimed at products such as the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Mazda CX-5. The Aircross’ styling is based on Citroen’s latest design language.

Up front, we have the traditional Chevron grille and two distinct pairs of headlamps. There are thin daytime running lights above, and the more conventional headlamps below, both using LED technology. The sides are as traditional as they get with crossovers, while the rear section showcases large LED taillights and a rather steep tailgate. Inside, the Aircross aims at the premium market. There’s a 12.3-inch screen instead of the conventional instrument cluster dials, while the eight-inch screen in the center stack provides access to the infotainment and navigation systems. The crossover also comes with a comprehensive safety package, the Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension, and adaptive cruise control. Motivation comes from four-cylinder engines rated at anywhere between 165 and 200 horsepower, but a hybrid drivetrain with a total output of 300 horses will be introduced later on. This gasoline-electric combo will make the C5 Aircross the first Citroen to feature plug-in hybrid technology.

Continue reading for the full story.

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Volkswagen I.D. CROZZ Concept

With mud still on its face from the Dieselgate scandal, Volkswagen is dead set on cleaning up its image. Gone is its focus on diesel and gasoline powerplants, now replaced by an all-electric future. While the internal combustion engine still has many years left with the German automaker, its executives have set a goal of 1 million EV sales a year. That’s a massive undertaking, but Volkswagen seems properly poised for the sprint. The latest in VW’s charge is the I.D. CROZZ, an all-electric crossover designed for mass appeal. The I.D. CROSS just debuted at the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show and is said to be entering production by 2020.

While the name will likely change, the I.D. CROZZ will hopefully keep its futuristic design. The chance is pretty good it will, in fact, thanks to comments made by Klaus Bischoff, VW’s head of design. He said at Shanghai "If it was ever possible to make a 100-percent certain prediction of what the future will look like, here it is. In 2017, we are showing how Volkswagen will be transforming the roadscape from 2020.”

While Bischoff might be a bit overly optimistic, his words give a sense of optimizing that Volkswagen will adopt this new design language across its lineup. It’s impossible to be disappointed, thanks to a greater degree of shape, style, and attitude than anything currently flowing from VW’s factories. The I.D. CROZZ doesn’t look like an appliance, but rather a sculpted piece of art. Sure, the production version will look a bit more conventional, but we’ve got high hopes that Volkswagen’s future looks much more sensual – not to mention emissions-free.

Continue reading for more information.

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MG E-Motion Is the Company's Most Gorgeous Concept to Date

One of England’s most iconic carmakers, MG has had a rather tumultuous history in recent decades. Owned by no fewer than six companies since the late 1980s, including BMW, the brand was revived by China-based SAIC Motor in 2006 and renamed MG Motor UK Limited. Several models followed, including a couple of SUVs, a first for the automaker. But SAIC also developed some daring concept cars, the latest of which is the E-Motion. Launched at the 2017 Shanghai Motor Show, the E-Motion is MG’s "vision of the future" (oh boy, if I had a penny for each time I heard this phrase) and comes in the shape of a slender, sportback-style two-door coupe. Arguably the most appealing modern MG design to date, the E-Mission combines some of the company’s recent styling cues with several new features. There’s a big "starlight matrix" grille up front, a carbon-fiber splitter, and round headlamps "bringing inspiration from the London Eye," the giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames. I dig the new face of MG, but I have to admit that I see some Mazda inspiration in there.

Continue reading for the full story.

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Six Gripes About The Fate And The Furious

Fast and Furious 8, otherwise known as The Fate of the Furious, is on pace to be another money-making blockbuster for Universal Studios. It’s already set to make $600 million worldwide and it’s only been around for less than a week. There’s no question that the movie itself is a commercial success for those behind it, but like most of its predecessors, Fast 8 had its fair share of holes and could-have-beens that would’ve probably made for a more cohesive story and a better viewing experience all around.

We already know that the franchise has little regard for real-life physics, so we’re not even going to mention the audacity of throwing in a submarine in the movie. After all, this is the same franchise that has used tanks, buildings, and without question the longest fake runway in the world as part of its set pieces. As much as we enjoyed Fast 8, certain elements of it left a lot to be desired. Whether it was the lack of cohesion to the overarching Fast and Furious universe or the absence of key players that would’ve made the movie more rounded, we’ve rounded up our gripes about the movie with hopes and expectations of seeing them addressed at some point in the next two movies. We don’t know if they’ll happen, but it goes without saying that not seeing them on Fast 8 amounted to missed opportunities for the movie to be better than it otherwise already is.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette was unveiled in early 2013 and introduced for the 2014 model year. It replaced the nine-year-old C6 and essentially changed the way enthusiasts viewed the Corvette thanks to its significant upgrades. Besides the more angular and aggressive styling, the C7 also received a revamped interior that no longer made use of cheap plastics. The cabin was finally moved into premium territory, putting an end to decades of criticism. Under the hood, the ’Vette continues to use a naturally aspirated, 6.2-liter V-8 powerplant, but the old LS3 was replaced with the brand-new LT1.

While it spawned the usual supercharged Z06 and race-spec R versions, as well as a Grand Sport and numerous limited-edition models, the seventh-generation Vette entered its third model year without a range-topping ZR1 in its lineup. A successor to the most powerful version of the C6 was rumored ever since the standard C7 arrived in dealerships, but in three years we got nothing more than unconfirmed rumors and speculation. Actually, at some point GM did say that a ZR1 won’t happen, and then the upcoming mid-engined Corvette, likely called the Zora, caught our entire attention.

The supercharged ’Vette gained more traction in May 2016, when General Motors filed a trademark for the "ZR1" name. Although a trademark doesn’t necessarily mean the car in question is actually coming, the spy shots we received from our paparazzi in the second half of 2016 pretty much confirm there’s a new ZR1 underway. The high-performance coupe is expected to arrive for the 2018 model, meaning that its official debut could take place in early 2017. Keep reading for more info on the new ZR1, a couple of renderings based on recent spy shots, and stay tuned for updates.

Updated 04/20/2017: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming Corvette ZR1 out for a new testing session at Nurburgring where the car was making a lot of noise. According to the photographers the car was making more than the 100 dB that is allowed during the Industry test session.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2018 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

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Mercedes-AMG S 63 And S 65 Updated In Shanghai; Still Silly Fast

Merc’s flagship four-door just got a buncha upgrades at this year’s Shanghai Auto Show, and while the German automaker puts fuel efficiency and a cylinder deactivation system at the top of its list, fear not – both models are still crazy fast. Tweaks were applied to the engine, transmission, and AWD system, not to mention the exterior styling and interior design, and the result is a mighty slab of Teutonic speed and luxury that’s every inch worthy of bearing the Mercedes torch.

Let’s jump straight into the greasy bits, starting with the S 63 4Matic+. This thing gets a new 4.0-liter turbo V-8, ditching the old 5.5-liter turbo V-8 and replacing the lost displacement with more boost. Final output figures come to 612 horsepower, which is 27 horses more than the old 5.5-liter lump. The 4.0-liter also makes an impressive 554 pound-feet of torque starting at just 2,750 rpm. Apply all that power, and you’ll go 0-to-62 mph in 3.5 seconds.

Cog swaps are handled by a 9-seed automatic gearbox, which replaces the old 7-speed box. Top speed is limited to 155 mph, although the optional Driver’s Package raises the limit to 186 mph.

Meanwhile, the even-faster S 65 gets the same 6.0-liter turbo V-12 as before, producing a very mighty 630 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is also a carryover, with a 7–speed automatic onboard to route the muscle.

Looking for more info? Continue reading for further specs and numbers.

Continue reading for the full story.

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Meet the Qoros K-EV – A Concept Set to Enter Production by 2019

In the midst of a massive automotive revolution in China, a small company known as Chery Quantum Automotive Corporation was birthed out of the blue. By 2011, the name was changed to Qoros Auto Co. Ltd, with responsibility split between Chery and Kenon Holdings. During it’s time in existence, the Chinese brand has put just two names into production – the Qoros 3 and Qoros 5 SUV. In fairness, the 3 can be had in SUV, sedan, hatchback, and GT, but they all look nearly identical outside of a few structural changes. So, one could say they have 5 models on the market, if you really want to get technical about things. Now, in what one could only call an excessively bold move for a new-ish company, the brand has debuted a new concept called the K-EV. It’s an electric vehicle that is said to be able to hit 62 mph in 2.6 seconds and has a range of around 310 miles. Full details on the electric drivetrain are scarce, but the that doesn’t matter because there’s something crazy going on with its exterior design.

I mean, seriously, what is going on here? This thing has four doors, three of which are wildly different. The rear passenger door slides open, the front passenger door is front-hinged and opens like a regular car door, while the driver’s door is a gullwing door. I mean it’s certainly interesting, but very out-of-the-box. What’s even crazier, however, is that this concept supposedly previews a model that will go into production in 2019. That I really want to see, but for now, keep reading to learn a little more about this unique and bold concept.

Keep reading to learn more.

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The BMW M4 CS Is a Glorified M4 for Suckers with Fat Wallets

So BMW finally unveiled the M4 CS. Big whoop! I simply cannot get excited about this glorified M4. And here’s why.

While the M4 is a great sports coupe that’s capable of great things on both the road and the track, it’s still far from being the iconic M3 coupe we all love. There are many reasons for that, but I’ll keep it short and mention the one that’s bugging me the most: it’s too damn heavy. This thing weighs nearly 3,500 pounds, only some 50 pounds lighter than the lightest version of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Let me say that again: 50 pounds lighter than a four-door sedan that’s significantly longer.

So the M4 CS is a tad lighter (but not light enough for BMW to add the "L" for "lightweight" to the "CS" badge), the engine boasts an extra 35 horsepower, and it’s a tenth-second quicker to 60 mph. Let’s say it’s not that bad given how difficult it is to make performance cars increasingly quicker nowadays, but for all of the above, you have to pay the equivalent of an M4 and a half. So 35 horsepower, a tenth-second, a carbon splitter, and a decklid spoiler for an extra $30,000+ over the base price of an M4.

How is this possible? What kind of deal is this?

Keep reading for the full story.

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Acura Takes Aim at the Chinese Market by Showing Off a Prototype of the TLX-L at Shanghai

The Acura TLX fights for dominance in a tough segment with models like the BMW 3 Series, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and Mercedes C-Class, among others. It’s a war-torn battlefield where models must be updated frequently to keep up, and things are always changing. As such, Acura has stayed on top of its game with the TLX, and just a few years after being introduced, it has gone through a facelift that brought about a new look to the front and rear, including the new Precision grille, lots of LED lights, and some updated technology inside to help it stay relevant. The updated TLX debuted at the New York Auto show, and just days later, Acura pulled the sheet off of another TLX – this time in prototype form with a longer wheelbase.

Obviously, Acura is trying to judge public interest in a LWB TLX in the one market that glorifies long vehicles with excessive room in the rear. It’s a status symbol, really, and the TLX in longer form should be more than sufficient for the wealthy Chinese businessman who would rather be driven. Acura hasn’t said much about this prototype and has only released a couple of images. The exterior is identical to the model we saw here in the U.S., with the exception of it having an extra-long roof, kick panels, and rear door. How much longer is it? Well, Acura didn’t say, but judging its length by the pictures provided, I’m guessing it’s somewhere around 4.5-inches longer. That should boost rear legroom up to around 38.5-inches, up from 34.5-inches in the standard model. There’s no word on any interior changes outside of the potential for extra legroom, but I suspect Acura would cater to the Chinese market well and offer plenty of rear-seat amenities like reclining seats, leg rests, rear infotainment, etc…

Keep reading for the rest of the story

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When An 840-Horsepower Dodge Challenger Demon Is A Letdown, Hennessey Is Here To The Rescue

The massive hype and anticipation surrounding the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon reached a crescendo when the muscle car was officially unveiled at the 2017 New York Auto Show. For all intents and purposes, the Challenger SRT Demon lived up to the hype, that is if you thought its 840-horsepower met expectations. But some people, myself included, actually thought Dodge would’ve swung for the fences with a car that packed 1,000 horsepower. In that regard, the Demon was a bit of a letdown, that is until we heard news that American tuner extraordinaire Hennessey is making things right with a package for the muscle car that will turn the beast into the demonic 1,500-horsepower monster we thought it would be.

See, news of Hennessey’s intentions for the Demon shouldn’t come as a surprise to those who know what the tuner is capable of. This is, after all, the same company that makes a routine of developing massive aftermarket kits for America’s biggest and baddest muscle cars. It’s got kits for different iterations of the Dodge Charger, Ford Mustang, and Chevrolet Camaro, all of which peak at four-digit power outputs. It even has programs for models like the Chevrolet Corvette and the Ford F-150, and lest we forget, this is the same company that gave the world the Hennessey Venom GT, considered as the fastest production car in the world as long as you’re not talking to Bugatti.

So what sinister intentions does Hennessey have in store for the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon? A quick peek at the company’s website reveals a number of tuning programs for the muscle car that include power increases ranging from 1,000 horsepower to 1,500 horsepower. Other upgrades in store from the clinically insane tuner include new supercharger systems, new headers, parachutes(!), and an NHRA-legal roll cage for good measure.

Should Hennessey accomplish its intended goal for the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, it’s going to go a long way in firmly establishing the muscle car as the standard-bearer of its segment. Not that it is already, but c’mon, 1,500 horsepower is 1,500 horsepower.

Continue after the jump to read the full story.

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