Vauxhall GTC Paris Concept

* Three-door approach Vauxhall Astra stars Paris stand
* Dynamic Scanlines will make a bold statement of design development Opel
* Innovative features of transmission and suspension also highlight the power

Luton - This is the official photo of the Opel GTC Concept Paris, which is the strongest indication yet of the successor Astra Sport Hatch and a stir when it receives its debut Sept. 30 at the Salon de l'Automobile in Paris.

Mark Adams, Opel 's Vice President of Design, describes the way to Paris as "courageous, pure and iconic" in appearance. Vauxhall said it is not a production version of the distance from the elegant design, and AGB nickname be accepted, it would be the first time that Vauxhall has been appointed.

At 4.46 meters, the words of Paris has plenty of room for five people, but have a smooth and sporty. Adams tension "in the design, limiting the number of rows in the profile of the car and leave the impression that the machine shows the plots" pushed "to the notion of 21-inch wheels" team enlarged. "

Vauxhall imitated signature blade, which the Insignia and creates a nice tight deadlines along the threshold. This, combined with a second line below that said the back door of the car to handle both fine and broad shoulders. A third line of the shape of the roof is in fine brushed aluminum finish emphasis on the graphics window and door to an integrated spoiler heavily accented.

tip Slim's Eagle-Eye LED daytime running lights flanked by chrome-shaped ring occupy the front of the Paris GTC. A sharp crease along the center line of the hood (a style based on the Vauxhall brand in the past) and a bar led to a significant reduction trapezoidal grille with chrome emblem incorporated.

On the back are the impressive features of the concept of LED taillights extend, has a long night extended "wings" of graphics.

The basis of the procedures in Paris is a specially designed frame with extra-large position. Referring to the potential for self-power of an electronic differential lock and an updated version of the damping system is FlexRide Vauxhall. The new Astra unique combination winch / Watt rear suspension offers outstanding packaging and security policy based on the driver.

A four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo gasoline direct injection and the start / stop technology has a six-speed drivers and provides high performance and energy efficiency.

As GM readies its IPO pitch

According to The Wall Street Journal, members of the U.S. Treasury are worried about General Motors' upcoming IPO. They aren't concerned for the automaker's stock price, or how even how many investors may decide to buy into the company – they're concerned about what country the money is coming from.

The Journal suggests that government officials are considering whether to limit or select which non-U.S. investors would be invited to be so-called "cornerstone" investors in GM's IPO. Cornerstone investors are sought out to purchase and hold sizable stakes in a given company at a set share price. Said price is often lower than what the general investing public can secure, the theory being that the cornerstone investors' presence (and the stability it implies) serves to drive confidence in the company. The fear is that there could be considerable political fallout if, say, some of those cornerstone investors turned out to be from nations like China. Either way, GM will need to firm up its investment plan fairly quickly if it is to allow enough time to court the 'right' cornerstone buyers.

As GM readies its IPO pitch, another key element in the company's talking points will be its long-term stability – including a chief executive officer who plans to stick around a while. New GM CEO Dan Akerson has reportedly told the board that he'll stay at the helm for two to five years - or perhaps even longer. The manner in which his compensation agreement is structured will likely include incentives timed to take effect over a period of years as a way to show investors that he's serious about making a longer-term commitment to the automaker's recovery

Toyota and Severinsky settle hybrid patent dispute ahead of ITC hearing

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7-21-2010 07:47

2010 Toyota Prius – Click above for high-res image gallery
Following on the heels of our earlier report about yesterday's scheduled hearing between Toyota and Alex Severinsky at the International Trade Commission came word that the parties have settled. Neither side has released any details about the agreement – and they probably won't. Toyota had previously been found guilty of infringing upon Severinsky's patent, which centers around getting power to a vehicle's wheels with a gasoline-electric vehicle using both high- and low current.

In all likelihood, Toyota agreed to pay royalties to PAICE (Severinsky's company) for all of the hybrids it has sold and will sell in the United States until the patent expires in 2012. This means that the threat of a ban on imports of Toyota hybrids has been lifted – at least until the next case.

In related news, Ford has also settled with PAICE over hybrid patent issues. The details are confidential, but there's a bit more information after the jump.

[Sources: Bloomberg, PAICE]

PRESS RELEASE

Paice and Ford Reach Settlement in Hybrid Vehicle Patent Infringement Disputes

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla., July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- On July 8, 2010, Paice LLC and Ford Motor Company entered into an agreement for the license of Paice's U.S. Patent No. 5,343,970. Each company had filed a lawsuit against the other relating to that patent relating to certain Ford hybrid vehicles.

Based on this agreement, the lawsuits will be promptly dismissed, bringing an end to all patent infringement litigation between the two companies.

In a joint statement, executives from both companies jointly announced, "We are pleased to have reached an amicable resolution." The terms of the license remain confidential.

About Paice

Paice LLC is a U.S. technology company formed in 1992 to develop hybrid vehicle technology that promotes lower emissions, superior driving performance and fuel efficient operation of internal combustion engines. Through its inventive endeavors, Paice has obtained 11 U.S. patents related tohybrid vehicle technology, including a breakthrough patent (the '970 patent) that describes the use of high voltage in a hybrid automobile. Paice has demonstrated that using voltage as high as 500 volts or more is essential to achieving real efficiency in hybrid automobiles. A 2009 study ranked Paice's hybrid patents as the most dominant in the world. Paice has been involved in ongoing litigation with Toyota and federal courts have ruled that theToyota Prius and other hybrids are infringing on Paice's patented technology .

Nissan GT-R goes up in flames while parked in locked showroom

A Gainesville, Florida Nissan dealership received a most unpleasant surprise Monday morning as the dealer's showroom floor became engulfed in smoke, with some flames centered in one very unfortunate area. Now we're guessing here, but we would think that if the dealer could save any one vehicle from the fire, they'd pick the nearly $90,000 silver GT-R. Too bad they apparently didn't have time to make the decision.

The Gainesville Sun reports that the GT-R was engulfed in flames when police and fire arrived at the dealership a little while after it closed, burning up much of the vehicle's exterior. The last person to exit the building was the security guard, who did a quick check of the showroom and locked up. When firefighters arrived on the scene, they had to bust down a door to enter the building, and when they got inside, the GT-R was being served flambé-style.

Firefighters don't know exactly how or why the GT-R burst into flames. Reports suggest that there was a light that dropped to the ground, and that light could have started the fire, or it could have dropped as a result of the fire. We don't have any idea what happened to the GT-R, or whether or not it was even driven that day, but you can head over to Gainesville.com for more details and to see a picture of the carnage. Thanks for the tip, Justin!

Chevrolet's Sales Across the Pond Fall Flat

Russian connection: the sales of Chevrolet on the case Pond Flat


Chevrolet sales in Europe of 425,000 units in 2010 hopefully, away from evil, but not by nearly one million units, GM is looking for the next ten years. Reference, Chevrolet Europe, sales declined from a high of 500,000 in 2008.

A major problem in the design of GM Russia, which had been expected to overcome Germany as Europe's largest market in the near future. Automotive sales in the Russian market by 50% last year to 1.45 million in 2009.

Car Facts, a division of PriceWatwerhouseCoopers, explains: "The financial crisis has highlighted a number of structural deficiencies that the likely impact of future labor market."

Here's what the analysts say

Walt Madeira (CSM Worldwide):
Saying "I think that the 425,000 will be difficult this year. Anything over 375,000, I would say that it is very good, but are difficult to do. Long term, I would like, with 600,000 in 2015 or 2016 is likely.

"The [Russian] program of destruction is given to the constructor Russian Lada. Chevrolet sales forecast for a recovery to help in Russia. When a market with three million, which can then sell 300,000 and 350,000, but not seems his case. Russia is not restored as soon as China, Brazil or India. "

Professor Ferdinand Dudenhoeffer (Center for Automotive Research at the University of Duisburg-Essen):
"If they have better models?" No, because VW, Renault-Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Fiat and many others are selling much better. They have a particular advantage in technology? "It's just GM. They have a better cost structure? No way ... in a few years are Chinese brands such as Geely and BYD in Europe. Will increase the sales of hunting Chevy driver. The brand is very weak."

Jonathon Poskitt (JD Power and Associates):
"If Russia moves forward, Chevrolet is evident from its strong presence there is no advantage. There is no room for the Chevrolet brand in Europe and the increase will help with the creation of a good portfolio of models and the introduction of new segments. .. I see with people coming from Chevrolet Hyundai / Kia, Fiat, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Opel, etc. then compete. "

Chevrolet Europe's product range is the new city car Spark, Aveo small car, the Lacetti compact car, Epica sedan that, the Captiva SUV and the new Cruze.

Within the next two years, GM, the company to improve the line-up with the next generation Aveo, which Orlando MPV and the Chevy Camaro, which will be the show car.

Anyone with ideas to promote, as Chevrolet in Europe, leave your ideas in comments below.

Citroen's DS High Rider Study in the Flesh

While the Survolt sports car concept is definitely the most impressive vehicle at Citroen's Geneva Show booth, the big news for the French firm is the DS High Rider study, a thinly veiled version of the forthcoming DS4 crossover expected to be launched in early 2011.

Part hatchback, part crossover, the DS High Rider combines styling elements from its smaller DS3 sibling and the 2005 C-SportLounge concept with more muscular details, a gently sloping roof line and a higher ride height.

The four-seater, three-door hatchback model uses the new C4's platform, itself due to be launched at the Paris Show this fall. At 4.26m long, 1.82m wide and 1.48m tall, the DS High Rider slightly shorter but wider and taller than the current C4 Coupe.

The concept study uses the PSA Peugeot-Citroen group's full diesel hybrid system combining an HDi engine up front with an electric motor located on the rear axle.

This arrangement allows for any combination of front- (diesel engine only), rear- (electric motor alone) or all-wheel drive (using both the diesel and electric motor).

The production version of the car will be available with conventional gasoline and diesel engines, and quite possibly, with the diesel-hybrid system as Citroen has made it clear that this drivetrain will be available in a series of models starting from 2011.

2010 Detroit Auto Show Photo Gallery

Contrary to what I may have said about the 2010 Detroit Auto Show being somewhat dismal, that does not mean 2010 will be a sub-par year.
There are still plenty of great cars coming outthis year! For instance, after touring Cobo Hall, there are two particular autos that I am very interested in and I am eager to get behind the wheel. As a matter in fact, these may be the two out of four cars I sat in at the show.

Nothing else got my blood pumping.

And after driving just about everything you can imagine, I must admit, it takes a lot to muster up some excitement these days.


2010 Detroit Auto Show Photo Gallery



The first vehicle is the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG "Gullwing." Yes, I am a sucker for the Gullwing doors. Although I have never attempted, something tells me I could never fit into the classic 1950s Gullwing -- being 6'8 -- so, this is as close as I will ever get.

Additionally, the SLS is the first Benz to be produced at AMG from the ground up; this means it will be jam packed with the most up to date technology and advancements from the AMG division. Featuring a 6.3 liter V8 churning out 563-horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque it is the most powerful naturally aspirated engine in production. Uh, awesome?! Why wouldn't you want to drive this?

Although getting in it is a bit goofy -- duck under the door, step over the HUGE door sill and twist into the seat -- once you are in, it is like a glove. The seats wrap around you and once you close the door, the essentials are surrounding you like a cockpit should.

And, the best part, I fit!

Moving along...


2010 Detroit Auto Show Photo Gallery



My second pick, without a doubt, has to be the Lotus Evora. By far one of the coolest designs to emerge in 2009, the Evora channels some cues from the Lancia Stratos and has one of the most gorgeous interiors known to man. It's exterior is akin to pornography and the interior is a hip-looking, posh lounge.

Aside from looking damn good, it has a mid-engine layout that will be equipped with a V6 pushing out 276-horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. Not to mention it is a Lotus, so that means two things will be prominent. 1) It is lightweight, coming in just under 3,000 pounds. 2) If it is a proper Lotus, it will handle like it is on rails.

After the Elise/Exige made its way stateside and revived the brand, after the cult classic Esprit, this car is theoretically the daily driver with a bit more room and sophistication. But, after getting a look at it in the flesh, it appears to be more of a two plus none.

Regardless, I am optimistic about giving this car a thorough work out.

What are some NEW cars that YOU want to drive in 2010? Voice your opinion here on AutoSpies...

2010 Detroit Auto Show Photo Gallery

the now more modern BMW line-up

With every new model launched or redesigned, comes another photos comparison. the week revolves around the 2011 BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible LCI that was unveiled yesterday and which will go on sales this Spring.

Judging by the photos and information released, the general consensus is that BMW is looking to align some of its models to the current design language, and features like “angel eyes” are starting to become standard across the line-up. LED taillights are also becoming the norm at BMW and the new 3 Series LCI comes to emphasize that.

Exterior:

Regarding the exterior of the car – BMW, like they did with the pre-LCI E92, have managed to make the E92 continue to look much more expensive than it actually is. The facelifted E92 continues to give a strong balance between prestige and performance purely in appearance alone.

Additionally, at front and rear, while the revisions appear minimal, the proof is in the details. At the business end of the 3 Series Coupe, the head lamps have grown slightly with added contours to the bottom line of the head lamp assembly. A thin “eyebrow” can now be found running along the top of each assembly which is lit by LEDs – a design cue taken straight from the E90 LCI, F01 7 Series and F10 5 Series.

Dropping just below the head lamps, the lower bumper is the most heavily modified part of the E92 LCI, losing the struts that flowed with the cut lines of the nose of the car. In its place, BMW have added a slim cut straight across the center of the lower grill, only being broken up by the area just below the larger, wider double kidney grill. Overall, the appearance of the E92 LCI now looks more succinct with the rest of the now more modern BMW line-up.

Moving to the rear of the car, the lower portion of the bumper receives a larger, purposeful crease along the valence just above the exhaust. The L-shaped tail lamps also receive a mild facelift with a more opaque cover to the LEDs when compared to the pre-LCI E92.

Additionally, the pattern of the rear lamp LEDs has two stacked sets of LEDs to provide better visibility at night while also providing a distinctly BMW look. By comparison, the LCI E92 now looks much brighter and contoured over its predecessor.

The side design goes through some changes as well, the E92 LCI features longer overhangs and subtle changes to the side skirts, giving the facelift an overall more aggressive, masculine look.



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GM spokespeople have suggested that it might be possible for the Spark

2010 Chevrolet Beat for India - Click above to enlarge

The question of whether or not General Motors will bring its diminutive Chevrolet Spark to the United States still doesn't have a definitive answer. Thanks to a GM of India press release, however, we now know that the little urban runabout will be coming to North America, although that geography obviously also includes Mexico and Canada.

In the past, GM spokespeople have suggested that it might be possible for the Spark (A.K.A. "Beat," or that unbearably irritating robot from Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) to be imported Stateside and that the automaker had kept U.S. regulations in mind when designing the car. Regardless, with gas as cheap as it currently is and a new Aveo just around the corner, we're certainly not holding our breath for a U.S. launch any time soon, and we feel that seeing the Beat in Mexican and/or Canadian showrooms is more likely.

That said, feel free to hit the jump to read GM of India's press release on the introduction of the Beat, which made its production-ready debut earlier in the week in New Delhi.

[Source: General Motors]

Show full PR text

GM India Launches much awaited Chevrolet Beat

Sexy, Smart & Tough - New Global mini car to be key pillar of Chevrolet's growth strategy in India

New Delhi: GM India today launched the much awaited Chevrolet Beat, the next offering from the 300 series after the Cruze, at a ceremony presided over by its President & Managing Director, Mr. Karl Slym. Based on GM's global mini-vehicle architecture, the experts took 27 months to develop the Beat. Chevrolet Beat will be launched in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, other parts of Asia and North America in the coming days.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slym said "with its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the Beat is destined to become an industry benchmark and a winner among consumers in India. Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets in a competitive environment, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests in extreme weather conditions and crash tests both in India and abroad. It has high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over key areas of the body to ensure segment-leading occupant protection. And with a revolutionary design, advanced technology, unique features and benchmark safety, the Beat offers much more than an ordinary mini, Mr. Slym added.

The Beat comes in three trim levels of 1.2, 1.2LS and 1.2LT. In addition, an Option pack is available on the LT variant which consists of ABS, Alloy wheels, Dual Airbags and Seatbelts with Load limiters.

Sexy Beat:

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The Beat is a car that is ideal for those with a modern lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The clear goal from the very beginning was to create a revolution in size and design despite the restrictions of the mini segment. The vehicle is destined to make a statement with an innovative design that would go far beyond a typical mini-vehicle and set new standards for the segment.

The Beat's roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its "body-in/wheels-out" stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature in this car. They give the Beat a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round tail-lamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the Beat's strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rail are other design cues that transport the Beat's styling beyond that of a conventional mini.

Beat buyers have a larger palette of exterior colours to choose from. They may select one of the seven colours - Olympic White, Linen Beige, Caviar Black, Misty Lake, Moroccan Blue, Green Cocktail and Super Red.

Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the Beat. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality. With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the Beat provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hip-room, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses.

The most striking design element in the interior is a Steering Column mounted motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster which is also a first-in-segment and combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional "picture framing" layout and results in a contemporary stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination which is a signature Chevrolet adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

SMART Beat

Segment leading fuel efficiency with high power output engine

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini, the S-TEC II engine – a 4-cylinder, 16-valve 1199cc DOHC engine delivers a best in class mileage of 18.6 kmpl. The Beat is Smart because it does no compromise on performance as it delivers an excellent peak power of 80.5ps. The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the Beat a truly eco-friendly vehicle.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise. Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 5-speed manual transmission tuned to GM's global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

Segment first & Premium Features Go "Beyond Mini"

The Beat features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

* l Automatic Climate Control
*
* Integrated Center Stack Audio with USB and Aux-in Port
* Tilt steering
* Steering Column mounted LED back-lit speedometer & LCD digital tachometer
* 60:40 Split folding seats
* Tubeless Tyres
* Satin Silver Roof rails

TOUGH Beat

Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the Beat also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle. A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the Beat's aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.

Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems make the Beat a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest and toughest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel and over 16 percent is made of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment. The solid structure played a key role in securing EuroNCAP rating in crash tests.

In addition, ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision. The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The collapsible steering column helps protect driver's chest in frontal collisions

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers' upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The Beat has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight – which goes far beyond industry regulations. Safety features include driver and front passenger air bags a 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system and seatbelt with load limiter.

The Beat comes with a high localization content and the parts have been very competitively priced in line with Chevrolet's philosophy to provide low cost of ownership experience to the owners. It also comes with a segment best warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms (whichever is earlier).

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Blanc Noir Edition – Click above for image gallery

You didn't really think it was over, did you? The Sang Bleu was supposed to be the last special edition Bugatti Veyron, but word (and pictures) on the street suggest otherwise. Exhibit Z: the Grand Sport Blanc Noir edition, which follows the trio of Dubai specials into the Veyron special sunset.

Apparently created for a high-end clothier, the Veyron Blanc Noir appears to be a one-off (like the Pegaso) rather than a limited-production run (like the Fbg par Hermes). Based on the targa-roofed Grand Sport, the Black Noir edition – spotted in California – is all done up, as the name suggests, in black and white: a matte white body with glossy black hood, wheels, spoiler, fuel filler cap and more. And of course, there's the requisite nameplate on the lower front corner of the door. Check it out in the gallery below for all the angles.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Blanc Noir Edition

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Android's popularity is on the rise thanks to cell phones like the new Nexus One and the Motorola Droid

Every carmaker has seen Ford's success in promoting its Sync technology, and they want a piece of that pie - as do many suppliers. Sync is built on top of a Microsoft-developed software platform and after a couple of years of Ford exclusivity, Kia just announced a similar system called Uvo. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week, Continental announced its own competing platform for in-car connectivity called Autolinq.

While Microsoft's in-car operating system is completely proprietary, Continental's system is based on the Google's open-source Android OS. Android's popularity is on the rise thanks to cell phones like the new Nexus One and the Motorola Droid. Continental hopes to leverage that community of software developers to create applications that can be downloaded directly to the car. This roughly mirrors Ford's recent announcement that developers will be able to create apps for Sync.

Continental plans to release a software development kit for Autolinq by the end of March, and have applications to demonstrate in the second half of this year. So far, there's no word on any automakers adopting Autolinq for their vehicles.

The as-yet-unnamed supercar features a basic design

Here's a supercar that's rising up against the competition - it's the Fenix! The work of Leicestershire-based sports car maker, Lee Noble, it's the first model to come from his new company, Fenix Automotive.

The as-yet-unnamed supercar features a basic design that is reminiscent of the Noble M600 and M12. However, the Fenix gets aggressive and angular lines, similar to those of the fighter jet-inspired Lamborghini Reventón.

“The M12 was hugely successful, but we needed to move the game on in terms of design,” said Noble. “The new car’s styling owes nothing to what I’ve done before and has quite literally been a ‘clean sheet’ exercise from the start. It’s edgy, with powerful lines, and aerodynamically will be in another league to any of my previous cars.”

Under the bonnet is a choice of two Corvette engines, giving 480bhp and 638bhp. The latter is lifted from the supercharged ZR1, and with a kerbweight of 1,200kg, is said to propel the Fenix from 0-100mph in just under seven seconds on its way to a 200mph top speed.

“Our first prototype is now in build and development will start in around one month’s time,” said Noble. “We’ll be hot-weather testing the first prototype on the mountain roads around Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where the car will be manufactured. But I’m itching to get the car back to the UK where I can set it up on roads I know well.”

Prices will be confirmed when sales start in 2011.

Here's a police vehicle guaranteed to make you move out of the fast lane pretty quick

Here's a police vehicle guaranteed to make you move out of the fast lane pretty quick! This liveried lorry, complete with flashing blue lights, has been unveiled as part of a crackdown on dodgy HGV drivers.

The aim is to give cops some much-needed height so they can see directly into lorry cabs. It allows them to catch drivers using mobile phones, watching DVDs on laptops or committing other offences.

The initiative is the first of its kind in the UK, and is being run by the Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG). This is part of the West Midlands force, which looks after 450 miles of road between Cheshire and South Wales. A spokesman said: “One officer drives the truck while another sits in the passenger seat armed with a hand-held video camera, ready to film into the lorry’s cab as we overtake.” If an offence is being committed, or the driver’s behaviour arouses suspicion, the officer will radio an unmarked police car following behind, which pulls it over. If the driver disputes the reason for being stopped, the video footage can be used as evidence in court.

The liveried HGV was created for the launch of the scheme, but isn’t actually taking part. Unmarked lorries supplied by local hauliers will be used instead.

the 'Juke' is designed to offer customers a funky alternative to the traditional small hatchback

Nissan has named the latest addition to its line up of quirky crossovers, as well as releasing the gloomy teaser shot you see here. Inspired by the Qazana concept shown in Geneva last year, and following in the footsteps of the hugely successful Qashqai, the 'Juke' is designed to offer customers a funky alternative to the traditional small hatchback.

From this dimly-lit photo it's clear that the concept car's swollen wheels arches have been carried over, along with the narrow, elongated headlights and oversize fog lights underneath. It appears the 370Z-inspired rear boomerang lights will also make production, while the windscreen and roofline have taken on a more angular profile.

Slotting in between the Note and Qashqai, the Juke will expand Nissan's broad range even further. And when it goes on sale in October, it should provide a welcome boost for the UK car industry too - it will be built alongside the Qashqai and Qashqai+2 at Nissan's Sunderland plant.

Full details on the newcomer will be realeaed at the global media unveiling on February 10th, but it's public debut won't be until the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Racing Dynamics plans for 2010 BMW 5-Series

Racing Dynamics is one of the coolest BMW tuners, not only because of their huge obsession with horsepower, but also because of the amazing bodykits which are like their signature. They are currently working on some packages for the all-new BMW 5-series, and based on the emerged details, they are good! as always.

What Racing Dynamics is going to do is quite amazing! They are going to release a powerful version of the 550i so you don’t have to wait for the actual M5 to arrive. The 407hp turbocharged V8 of the 550i will undergo a surgery to give 620 hp! That’s more than the 2011 M5, for sure! Other modifications to this car include a new rear-locking differential, sport suspension and high performance braking system.

They also have a package for the 535i six-cylinder model in which the power is upped from the standard 306hp to 410hp. This car too will get new exhausts, suspension and brakes and will be a serous performer. It’s all very good, but we can’t wait to see what they have in mind for the body! We just hope that the 5er get RD’s superb front bumper!