Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Bugatti releases new palette for Veyron Hermes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/bugatti-releases-new-palette-for-veyron-hermes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/bugatti-releases-new-palette-for-veyron-hermes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/bugatti-releases-new-palette-for-veyron-hermes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for hi-res gallery of the Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes

We know what you're thinking, because we're in the same lamentable position ourselves: you'd totally order up that uber-exclusive Hermes edition Veyron, but you're not a big fan of the brown and tan paint scheme. Fortunately Bugatti has heard your cries, brother, and announced the availability of new color options for the Veyron Fbg.

The announcement actually came from Monterey but was quickly overshadowed, somewhat ironically, by the unveiling of the open-top Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport and the subsequent auction of its first example for $3.2 million. The unveiling of the new-tint Hermes Veyrons took place at the Quail motorsport gathering on Monterey Peninsula, where Bugatti revealed the four new color schemes available: "indigo blue and vermilion", "indigo blue and lime green", " black and garance red" and "Prussian blue and blue jean". We're not entirely sure what all these colors are, exactly, and given that Bugatti put them in quotation marks, we're not sure they're sure, either. They undoubtedly would have shown us pictures of all four, but given that these 1.5 million euro hyper-exotics are made to order and available only from the end of the year, we doubt examples of each color option have been made yet. Of course they all come decked out with the H-pattern grille, eight-spoke wheels, lavish calfskin interior and exclusive package of specially-made Hermes luggage.

Follow the jump for all the details, and check out the gallery below to see the new black and "garance red" Veyron Fbg par Hermes, which we like to call the "Autoblog Edition".

Gallery: New Colors: Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes


[Source: Bugatti]

Continue reading Bugatti releases new palette for Veyron Hermes

 

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]]>bugattibugatti veyronbugatti veyron fbg par hermesbugatti veyron hermesBugattiVeyronBugattiVeyronFbgParHermesBugattiVeyronHermesfbgfbg by hermesfbg par hermesFbgByHermesFbgParHermeshermeshermes colorshermes coloursHermesColorsHermesColourspar hermesParHermesveyronveyron colorsveyron coloursVeyronColorsVeyronColours2008-08-28T12:59:00+00:00<![CDATA[Pininfarina Hyperion dash-mounted watch from Girard-Perregaux]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/pininfarina-hyperion-dash-mounted-watch-from-girard-perregaux/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/pininfarina-hyperion-dash-mounted-watch-from-girard-perregaux/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/pininfarina-hyperion-dash-mounted-watch-from-girard-perregaux/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If someone has enough cash on hand to commission an entirely rebodied Rolls-Royce from one of Italy's most famous coachbuilders, you can bet he's not going to be wearing an off-the-rack watch, either. That's why Girard-Perregaux crafted the special timepiece you see here.

As we reported with the initial news of the Pininfarina Hyperion, this one-of-a-kind tourbillon is specially designed to be removed from its ivory leather wristband and mounted into the dashboard of the unique Rolls-Royce. Its meticulously-hand-crafted 30-jewel movement has 72 components but weighs less than a third of a gram, encased in 18-karat white gold with a face colored the same light blue as the Hyperion it was made to accompany. Like the one-off Hyperion is based on the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe, the watch is based on the Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Tourbillon. But again, like the car, there was only one built.

Gallery: Pininfarina Rolls-Royce Hyperion


[Source: Girard-Perregaux via TimeZone]

 

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]]>girard-perregauxgirard-perregaux rolls-royce hyperion pininfarinaGirard-perregauxRolls-royceHyperionPininfarinahyperionpininfarinapininfarina hyperionpininfarina rolls-roycePininfarinaHyperionPininfarinaRolls-roycerolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce hyperion pininfarinaRolls-royceHyperionPininfarinaRollsRoyce2008-08-27T17:30:00+00:00<![CDATA[On the nautical ropes in the Fiat Portofino beach car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/on-the-nautical-ropes-in-the-fiat-portofino-beach-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/on-the-nautical-ropes-in-the-fiat-portofino-beach-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/on-the-nautical-ropes-in-the-fiat-portofino-beach-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for hi-res gallery of the Portofino

Fiat took one of its Fiorino vans, chopped off, well, most of it, and dubbed it the Portofino. Supposedly no more than a study for the Caravan Show that starts in Dusseldorf later this week, the golden, buggy-like conveyance is an homage to the 1960s. In a time before Fiat was building $200,000 supercars, coachbuilders were adding open-topped bodies to Fiat chassis like this for fun in the Italian sun.

To stress the beachgoing theme, the Portofino has wood laminate flooring and natural fibers treated with a special waterproofing for the interior surfaces. The car can (optimistically) seat five, and the rear seat folds down for your surfboards and anchors.

Instead of doors, the Portofino has nautical ropes -- which might sound risky, but the 12-foot car only has 75 horsepower, so you shouldn't be getting in too much trouble. Fiat has no plans to make the Portofino, but says it will create a covered version for protection from win and sun. Andiamo, then...

Gallery: Fiat Portofino Concept


[Source: Carscoop]

 

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]]>convertibleconvertiblesfiatfiat fiorinofiat portofinoFiatFiorinoFiatPortofinoportofino2008-08-27T12:56:00+00:00<![CDATA[Ferrari Monza concept too complex for puny humans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/ferrari-monza-too-complex-for-puny-humans/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/ferrari-monza-too-complex-for-puny-humans/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/ferrari-monza-too-complex-for-puny-humans/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above for gallery of the Ferrar Monza concept

It appears that after seeing a number of its finest works crashed by errant drivers, Ferrari should consider making something like this. It's called the Monza, and it's part car, part motorcycle, part flying wing, and all anime.

Independently designed by Iman Maghsoudi, the Monza, whose name recalls historic Ferraris of yore and the race track that hosts the Italian Grand Prix, can go 125 miles per hour. But because humans cannot muster "sufficient concentration" to keep it on the ground and upright, computers take over. They change the angles of the canards over the front wheels and make sure the Monza doesn't go airborne in violent gusts. This study in advanced aerodynamics appears to be the road-going equivalent of an F-16, which seems to be a rather complicated way to go speeds that aren't considered that fast anymore. But hey, it's a Ferrari, it's red, no one else has one, and if we got the chance we'd drive it, too.

Gallery: Ferrari Monza design study


[Source: Telegraph]

 

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]]>experimentalferrariferrari monzaFerrariMonzamonza2008-08-27T10:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[V Eight developing modern Jensen Interceptor SX supercar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/v-eight-developing-modern-jensen-interceptor-sx-supercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/v-eight-developing-modern-jensen-interceptor-sx-supercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/v-eight-developing-modern-jensen-interceptor-sx-supercar/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We've already told you about a company called V Eight that has rebirthed the Jensen Interceptor S with an LS2 and modern mechanicals for £75,000, and already, 60% of the allotment of 50 has been sold. That kind of success has got V Eight looking at a successor for the S, and they might have found it in the Jenson Interceptor SX.

The SX would be rebodied over a original donor car, just like the Interceptor S. And while it would still look like a Jenson, as you can see from the official rendering above, the design would be much more modern. The Interceptor SX would get a luxurious interior on the inside and use an LS7 V8 making 620 horsepower for propulsion. To be offered at a price of £145,000, the SX already has deposits from buyers of the Jenson S. As far as we're concerned, if you're going to revive the empire, this is the way to do it.

Gallery: Jensen Interceptor S


[Source: Innovation Cars]

 

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]]>coupesgtgtsinterceptorinterceptor sinterceptor sxInterceptorSInterceptorSxjensenjensen carsjensen interceptorjensen interceptor sjensen interceptor sxjensencarsJensenInterceptorJensenInterceptorSJensenInterceptorSxsports carsSportsCarsv eightv eight ltdVEightVEightLtd2008-08-27T09:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[REPORT: BMW cancels development of E92 M3 CSL]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/report-bmw-cancels-development-of-e92-m3-csl/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/report-bmw-cancels-development-of-e92-m3-csl/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/report-bmw-cancels-development-of-e92-m3-csl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



There were around 1,400 examples of the BMW e46 M3 CSL built, and by all accounts they were exceptionally well received. However, according to Ludwig Willisch, the boss of the automaker's M division, the current e92 M3 won't get the same treatment. He - or perhaps the accountants - feel that "based on current numbers, there is most likely insufficient demand for the M3 CSL."

If a current scorching version of the e92 were to exist, it would have been bumped by anywhere from 36 to 56 horsepower, shed 200 pounds or more, worn some different tires and a set of bigger lungs. In light of the possible volume, though, which would be small, BMW - or again, its accountants - would rather focus on the X6 and X5 for now. Thanks for the tip, Mike!

[Source: Car]

 

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]]>bmwbmw m3bmw m3 cslBmwM3BmwM3Csle92e92 bmw m3e92 csle92 m3e92 m3 cslE92BmwM3E92CslE92M3E92M3Cslm3m3 cslM3Csl2008-08-27T08:55:00+00:00<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Michael Keaton's Batmobile #5 of 5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/ebay-find-of-the-day-michael-keatons-batmobile-5-of-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/ebay-find-of-the-day-michael-keatons-batmobile-5-of-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/ebay-find-of-the-day-michael-keatons-batmobile-5-of-5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for more images of the Batmobile, circa 1989

Built atop a lowly Chevrolet Impala chassis (or two), we don't imagine that the next owner of the Batmobile in this auction will be pulling too many Batman-esque stunts. Still, to own one of the vehicles used by Michael Keaton and Kim Basinger in the 1989 Tim Burton-directed movie is pretty cool. A few salient facts: This sucker is 20-feet long and 8-feet wide, so you're going to need a Bat Cave-sized garage. It's powered by a (probably anemic) Chevy 350 V8, so it's fuel mileage theoretically approaches that of the fictional turbine engine depicted in the flick. Lastly, the new owner will need you to sign a Warner Brothers purchase agreement, which we hear is pretty limiting in what it allows you to do with the car. Still, how many people can actually say, "I think I'll take the Batmobile to work today?" Therefore, we deem this car epic. Thanks for the tip, BMW122487!

Gallery: eBay FOTD: 1989 Batmobile


[Source: eBay Motors]

 

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]]>1989 batman1989 batmobile1989Batman1989Batmobilebatmanbatmobilebatmobile michael keatonBatmobileMichaelKeaton2008-08-25T19:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[Ford reveals Super Duty Cabela FX4 and Harley-Davidson F-450 models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/ford-reveals-super-duty-cabela-fx4-and-harley-davidson-f-450-mod/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/ford-reveals-super-duty-cabela-fx4-and-harley-davidson-f-450-mod/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/ford-reveals-super-duty-cabela-fx4-and-harley-davidson-f-450-mod/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Outdoor enthusiasts and urban cowboys get some love from Ford this year in the form of the Blue Oval's first-ever Cabela FX4-edition F-Series and the latest Harley-Davidson tie-up -- the first time ever the Bar and Shield logo has appeared on the heaviest-duty F-450 model.

Apparently, Ford has found that 76-percent of F-Series buyers hunt and fish, hence the newly expanded relationship between the automaker and the outdoorsy retailer. Consisting mostly of a paint and badge job, the Cabela buyer gets his or her choice of five two-tone paint schemes: Ebony, Oxford White, Forest Green Metallic, Royal Red Metallic and Silver Metallic -- all with Sterling Grey Metallic lower accents along the rocker panels, running boards and wheel arch moldings.

For the twelfth iteration of the Harley-Davidson edition, Ford will put blue-flames along the length of the vehicle and on the black leather seats. Also included are large chromed vents just aft of the front wheels. Expect plenty of Harley logos all over the truck, though a photo has yet to appear.

Along with these two new models, the Super Duty trucks receive an optional spray-in bedliner from the factory, an integrated trailer brake controller, the new Ford Work Solutions suite, Voice-Activated Navigation System with SIRIUS Travel Link and the heavy duty trucks first application of SYNC.

[Source: Ford, Pickuptrucks.com]

Continue reading Ford reveals Super Duty Cabela FX4 and Harley-Davidson F-450 models

 

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]]>2009 super duty2009SuperDutycabelascabelas fx4CabelasFx4fordford super dutyford super duty pick...ford super duty pickupsFordSuperDutyFordSuperDutyPick...FordSuperDutyPickupsharley davidsonharley-davidsonharley-davidson f-450harley-davidson truckHarley-davidsonF-450Harley-davidsonTruckHarleyDavidsonsuper dutysuper duty fordsuper duty trucksSuperDutySuperDutyFordSuperDutyTrucks2008-08-25T12:31:00+00:00<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce creates special Peony edition Phantom for UAE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/rolls-royce-creates-special-peony-edition-phantom-for-uae/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/rolls-royce-creates-special-peony-edition-phantom-for-uae/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/rolls-royce-creates-special-peony-edition-phantom-for-uae/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click to view the RR Phantom Peony edition in hi-res

Wealthy customers in the United Arab Emirates seem to have a penchant for special editions of the most expensive luxury saloons. As if it wasn't enough to get the Maybach Landaulet revealed right there on their home turn, one Arabian customer recently ordered a custom gilded Rolls-Royce Drophead. Now Rolls-Royce has followed up with a special edition of its Phantom limousine targeted specifically for the UAE.

Called the Peony edition, the bespoke Phantom borrows its name from the indigenous Asian flower that symbolizes royality in ancient Oriental culture. The car features a special two-tone pearl blue exterior and Seashell interior, emblazoned with the peony floral motif. It even comes with a complementary bottle of perfume specially crafted by Emirate fragrance specialist HIND. The special edition was created by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Program, which does the bulk of its business with Middle Eastern customers. No word on how many will be built or how much it costs, but if there was ever a case of "if you have to ask, you can't afford it", this is it.

Gallery: Rolls-Royce Phantom Peony Edition


[Source: Motor Authority]

 

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]]>abu dhabiAbuDhabidubaiemiratespeonypeony editionPeonyEditionphantomphantom peonyPhantomPeonyrolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce peony editionrolls-royce phantomRolls-roycePeonyEditionRolls-roycePhantomRollsRoyceuaeunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmirates2008-08-24T19:15:00+00:00<![CDATA[Project Kahn and Lotus team up on 60th anniversary Elise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/22/project-kahn-and-lotus-team-up-on-60th-anniversary-elise/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/22/project-kahn-and-lotus-team-up-on-60th-anniversary-elise/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/22/project-kahn-and-lotus-team-up-on-60th-anniversary-elise/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Lotus Elise by Kahn.

Special edition Elises are becoming a dime-a-dozen, but Lotus decided Kahn Design should be tasked with creating its own bespoke version of the Elise to celebrate the automaker's 60th anniversary.

Kahn, primarily known for its body-kit-equipped Astons, Benzes, Landies and Rollers, has taken the standard Elise and given it an aesthetic once-over in an attempt to justify it's yet-to-be-disclosed price tag. The enhancements include a new front splitter, side skirts and rear wing, along with silver mesh fitted to the side air intakes and rear clam. The seats have replaced with thicker, leather thones and the Kahn logo has been embossed on the headrests, center console and steering wheel. In keeping with Kahn tradition, performance modifications are limited to 19-inch wheels, a new suspension and a sports exhaust.

The Kahn Elise will officially debut next month, with sales beginning later this year through the UK's Dream Machines Lotus dealership.

Gallery: Kahn Lotus Elise


[Source: Autoblog.nl]

 

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]]>elisekahnlotuslotus kahnlotus kahn eliseLotusKahnLotusKahnElise2008-08-22T14:00:00+00:00<![CDATA[Monterey 2008: Pebble Beach concept car lawn]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/19/monterey-2008-pebble-beach-concept-car-lawn/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/19/monterey-2008-pebble-beach-concept-car-lawn/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/19/monterey-2008-pebble-beach-concept-car-lawn/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image above for a high-res gallery of concepts from Pebble Beach

The Pebble Beach Concours has something for every car enthusiast, even if classic cars aren't your thing. Every year we take the time to tear ourselves away from the fairway and head up to the front of the lodge where the concept car lawn showcases some of the latest show cars. Many of the cars made their debut at the Detroit Auto Show this year including Chrysler's green concepts, the Jeep Renegade, Dodge ZEO, and Chrysler ecoVoyager. GM brought out the Cadillac CTS Coupe and the Buick Invicta, Lexus showed off the LF-A Roadster, and Mercedes-Benz displayed the F700 that debuted in Frankfurt. Other featured cars included the Pininfarina Hyperion, Lamborghini Reventon and Gallardo LP560-4, Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport and Spyker C8 Aileron. Enjoy the high resolution gallery below.

Gallery: 2008 Pebble Beach Concept Car Lawn

Photos Copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

 

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]]>Montereypebble beachpebble beach 2008Pebble Beach concept carspebble beach concoursPebbleBeachPebbleBeach2008PebbleBeachConceptCarsPebbleBeachConcours2008-08-19T16:59:00+00:00<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Pininfarina Rolls-Royce Hyperion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/19/pics-aplenty-pininfarina-rolls-royce-hyperion/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/19/pics-aplenty-pininfarina-rolls-royce-hyperion/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/19/pics-aplenty-pininfarina-rolls-royce-hyperion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Pininfarina RR Hyperion

Spend enough time roaming the streets of Rome and you're likely to encounter a fair share of people who fancy themselves more Catholic than the Pope. No wonder, then, that the Italians have now tried to out-Rolls-Royce Rolls-Royce, presenting a one-off drop-top Drophead that endeavors to embody an even greater presence than the Phantom cabrio itself.

The Pininfarina Hyperion was unveiled just this past weekend at Pebble Beach, and our man Drew was on hand to bring you the best shots of the one-off coachbuilt special from the show stand as it was unveiled and from the fairway where it was displayed in all its glory. But just in case you didn't get enough, Pininfarina has released ten more high-res shots of its one-off Roller for your viewing pleasure. Click on the top gallery to view the new factory shots, and on the two galleries after the jump to see the Hyperion in Monterey.

Gallery: Pininfarina Rolls-Royce Hyperion


[Source: Pininfarina]

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: Pininfarina Rolls-Royce Hyperion

 

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]]>coachbuildcustom rolls-royceCustomRolls-roycepebble beachPebbleBeachpininfarinapininfarina hyperionpininfarina rolls-roycePininfarinaHyperionPininfarinaRolls-roycerolls-roycerolls-royce hyperionrolls-royce hyperion pininfarinaRolls-royceHyperionRolls-royceHyperionPininfarina2008-08-19T12:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[Jetstream SC250: the <strike>poor</strike> blind man's Atom/X-Bow/Elise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/18/jetstream-sc250-the-strike-poor-strike-blind-mans-atom-x-bo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/18/jetstream-sc250-the-strike-poor-strike-blind-mans-atom-x-bo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/18/jetstream-sc250-the-strike-poor-strike-blind-mans-atom-x-bo/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Another British track tool is going up against the drool-worthy Ariel Atom, KTM X-Bow and the Lotus Elise. The Jetstream SC250 is styled by Brian Rossi, the same man behind the retro-tastic modern Ford Thunderbird, and although it's not exactly pretty, the SC250's wedge-shaped bodywork is sure to produce a good bit of downforce. Sitting over the rear axle is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-banger cribbed from the euro-only Astra VXR, giving the SC250 the same front/rear weight distribution as the aforementioned Elise. That spells good things for the handling, as do the wide rubber patches at each corner. Reading over the first road test at Autocar and watching the video posted after the break, those who get behind the wheel quickly forget the controversial styling. However, until we get a chance in the cockpit, this one's taking a distinct back-seat to the Atom.

[Source: Autocar]

Continue reading Jetstream SC250: the poor blind man's Atom/X-Bow/Elise

 

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]]>jetstreamjetstream sc250jetstream sports carjetstream sportscarJetstreamSc250JetstreamSportsCar2008-08-18T17:31:00+00:00<![CDATA[Monterey 2008: GM's Motorama cars at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/monterey-2008-gms-motorama-cars-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/monterey-2008-gms-motorama-cars-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/monterey-2008-gms-motorama-cars-at-pebble-beach/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image above for high-res gallery of Motorama Cars from Pebble

Along with the 20+ liter class, the Lancias, Lamborghinis and Ferrari California Spiders, GM's Motorama cars were among the featured groups at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance this year. For those of a certain age, the Motorama cars were some of the wildest dream cars ever created. GM created a traveling road show of concepts that went from town to town. These vehicles were styled by some of the greatest names in the design biz and have had a lasting impact on many that followed. The cars themselves explored design themes that stretched the imagination and incorporated some of the latest, greatest technology of the day. Some were used for a year or two to show people the possibilities, and then were discarded like yesterday's newspaper. Others were outright destroyed because they were never designed to be drivable. Thanks to at least one dedicated fan, their remains were salvaged and the cars rebuilt when possible. To help celebrate GM's 100th anniversary, Pebble gathered them together to show them off once again. Many look spectacular but a couple still need some TLC. Check out the press release after the jump and the full gallery below.

Gallery: GM Motorama Dream Cars at Pebble

1954 Firebird XP-211938 Buick Y-Job1956 Buick Centurion XP-3011953 Buick Wildcat 11954 Buick Wildcat II

Photos Copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Monterey 2008: GM's Motorama cars at Pebble Beach

 

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]]>GM MotoramaGmMotoramamotoramapebble beachpebble beach 2008pebble beach week 2008PebbleBeachPebbleBeach2008PebbleBeachWeek20082008-08-17T19:18:00+00:00<![CDATA[Woodward 2008: Hankering for Hot Rods?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/woodward-2008-hankering-for-hot-rods/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/woodward-2008-hankering-for-hot-rods/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/woodward-2008-hankering-for-hot-rods/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a gallery of Hot Rods on Woodward

Cruising amongst the various cars down Woodward this weekend were quite a few machines that fit into the Hot Rod genre. Starting with a classic old-school vehicle platform, adding power and lowering it to the ground, the Hot Rod ethos still manages to attract its fair share of gawkers, including those of us wielding cameras. Take a look at the gallery we assembled below for the coolest 'rods and customs we could find.

Gallery: Woodward 2008: Hot Rods

 

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]]>hot rodhot rodsHotRodHotRodswoodwardwoodward 2008woodward dream cruisewoodward dream cruise 2008woodward2008WoodwardDreamCruiseWoodwardDreamCruise20082008-08-17T10:34:00+00:00<![CDATA[Woodward 2008: Advance Automotive's Heldo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/16/woodward-2008-advance-automotives-heldo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/16/woodward-2008-advance-automotives-heldo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/16/woodward-2008-advance-automotives-heldo/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the image above for the Advance Automotive's Heldo high res gallery

We've seen everything from Challengers and Camaros to Vespas and Vipers today, but there was only one Heldo. Advanced Automotives' Heldo is a steel tube space frame concept with composite bodywork and a 350-horsepower 32V Cadillac Northstar engine. According to the Advance Automotive website, the rear engine Heldo can reach 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds, take 12.2 seconds to hit a quarter mile, and pull north of 1g on the skid pad. We have no way of verifying those lofty performance statistics, but we can tell you that it looks very cool in silver. Some of our favorite features are the gull-wingish doors, crazy thin LED tail lights, and the exposed carbon fiber hood, but the crazy aqua duct side pods may have to go. Will we ever see a production Heldo on public roads? No, but we wouldn't mind if we did. Click on the high resolution gallery below to see the Heldo in all its odd glory.

Gallery: Woodward 2008: Advanced Heldo Concept

 

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]]>Advanced automotiveAdvancedAutomotiveheldo conceptHeldoConceptNorthstar engineNorthstarEngineV8woodwarwoodwardwoodward 2008woodward dream cruiseWoodward2008WoodwardDreamCruise2008-08-16T19:28:00+00:00<![CDATA[BMW X5 "Security" model can handle .44 Magnum fire]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/bmw-x5-security-model-can-handle-44-magnum-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/bmw-x5-security-model-can-handle-44-magnum-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/bmw-x5-security-model-can-handle-44-magnum-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 BMW X5 Security

If you happen to be the Head of State of a controversial nation, have a lot of enemies, or you are just plain paranoid, BMW's latest X5 variation may appeal to you. It's called the BMW X5 Security, and it has been armored by the factory to protect its occupants against some serious firepower (BMW claims safety class "VR4" to resist the penetration from a .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, or a nine-millimeter Luger). While BMW is understandably mum about specifics, we do know that the body panels (including the roof and trunk) have been reinforced with a ballistic-resistant armored fiber developed in the Netherlands. The windows are upgraded to laminated 22-mm thick security glass, and a camera system with intercom keeps the passengers informed of what's happening outside their isolated cocoon. To handle the extra mass (you know its packing some weight) the Security package is bundled to the X5 4.8i model with its 4.8-liter 350-hp V-8. Nearly indistinguishable from the regular model, BMW has reportedly attempted to maintain the X5's driving dynamics with upgraded suspension and brakes. It's apparently no slouch, but we have yet to see any armored car that is considered exceptionally nimble.

Gallery: 2009 BMW X5 Security

 

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]]>ArmoredBulletproofExplosionFireFirepowerGunMagnumX5 SecurityX5Security2008-08-15T18:57:00+00:00<![CDATA[A Matter of Taste: Rolls-Royce delivers golden Drophead Coupe to Abu Dhabi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/14/a-matter-of-taste-rolls-royce-delivers-golden-drophead-coupe-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/14/a-matter-of-taste-rolls-royce-delivers-golden-drophead-coupe-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/14/a-matter-of-taste-rolls-royce-delivers-golden-drophead-coupe-to/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click to view the Golden Roller in high-resolution

It says a lot about a place when a gold-gilded Rolls-Royce comes across as the most tasteful thing we've seen there recently, but so it is. Following the gold-accented Camry spotted in neighboring emirate Dubai, a brand new Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe has been delivered to its new owner in Abu Dhabi. But this convertible is distinguished by a gold paintjob and an actual gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament (Seriously, the owner couldn't spring for a solid gold hood ornament?).

The car was created as part of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Program, which allows customers to specify all manner of optional extras, both inside and out. Of course, this example was also fitted with the optional stainless steel hood, twin coachlines, teak rear deck and Rolls-Royce emblems etched into the headrests, but the gold touches put it over the top and square into evil arch-villain status.

Gallery: Golden Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe


[Source: Motor Authority and AME Info]

 

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]]>gold rolls royce abu dhabigold rolls royce phantom drop head coupe abu dhabigold rolls-royceGoldRolls-royceGoldRollsRoyceAbuDhabiGoldRollsRoycePhantomDropHeadCoupeAbuDhabirolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce drophead couperolls-royce phantomrolls-royce phantom drophead coupeRolls-royceDropheadCoupeRolls-roycePhantomRolls-roycePhantomDropheadCoupeRollsRoyce2008-08-14T09:59:00+00:00<![CDATA[Naval architects float designs for nautical Range Rovers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/naval-architects-float-designs-for-nautical-range-rovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/naval-architects-float-designs-for-nautical-range-rovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/naval-architects-float-designs-for-nautical-range-rovers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Luxury sport-utes and yachts go together like champagne and strawberries. The good folk at the Volkswagen Group know that, which is why they came up with the VW Touareg North Sails and Audi Q7 V12 TDI Coastline concepts. But the British aren't about to leave all the wet n' wild fun to ze Germans, so they're cooking up a few sailing-themed SUVs of their own.

In cooperation with Land Rover, luxury yacht broker Edmiston has commissioned seven of the world's top yacht designers to participate in the Superyacht Range Rover Design Competition. The results of the design regatta will be put to sea (figuratively speaking) at the Monaco Yacht Show next month, at which point the obscenely wealthy may place orders for these bespoke SUVs at prices ranging from $300,000 to $1.2 million.

[Source: CarScoop]

 

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]]>designland roverLandRovermonaco yacht showMonacoYachtShownauticalrange roverRangeRoversailingsuperyacht range rover design competitionSuperyachtRangeRoverDesignCompetitionyachting2008-08-13T18:29:00+00:00<![CDATA[HUMMER shows off '09 H2 "Black Chrome" Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/hummer-shows-off-09-h2-black-chrome-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/hummer-shows-off-09-h2-black-chrome-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/hummer-shows-off-09-h2-black-chrome-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the H2 "Black Chrome" Edition

HUMMER is having a bad year. Year-to-date sales are down 43% versus '07, and last month saw the iconic off-road nameplate take a 61% drop compared to July '07. High fuel prices have massacred truck and SUV sales in general, and HUMMER is simply reeling. GM threw the brand's future under the bus into limbo back in June when it announced a strategic review was underway, and the latest round of news has a sketchy Russian billionaire sniffing around, looking to acquire the marque. Happy times.

So, while the backdrop is grim, business continues, and GM has released photos of its annual H2 special edition for '09. The 2009 H2 "Black Chrome" Limited Edition is pretty self explanatory: it gets darkened "black chrome" applied to all the usual blingifiable surfaces, from the 21-inch wheels to the fuel filler door. Three paint colors are available, but the Sedona Metallic finish you see here is exclusive to the "Black Chrome" rig, and is coupled with a matching leather interior. A total of 1,300 "Black Chrome" editions will be offered worldwide, with an undetermined mix of H2 SUVs and SUTs making up that number. At the very least, they should be a big hit in Russia.

Gallery: 2009 HUMMER H2 "Black Chrome" Limited Edition


[Source: GM]

 

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]]>black chromeBlackChromeh2hummerlimited editionLimitedEdition2008-08-13T11:27:00+00:00