Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Honda wins Commercial of the Decade, but not for the ad you think [w/VIDEO]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/honda-wins-commercial-of-the-decade-but-not-for-the-ad-you-thin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/honda-wins-commercial-of-the-decade-but-not-for-the-ad-you-thin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/honda-wins-commercial-of-the-decade-but-not-for-the-ad-you-thin/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Honda's Commercial of the Decade: "Grrr" - Click above to watch video

The mad men at Adweek recently voted for the Commercial of the Decade (Super Bowl commercials not included) and Honda took top honors over memorable ads from the last ten years by companies like Nike, Budweiser and Sony. That's not a big surprise considering Honda often puts a huge amount of effort into its on-air spots. However, the Japanese automaker didn't win for the commercial you might have expected: "Cog." Though Honda's famous commercial that breaks down a European Accord Tourer into a Rube Goldberg-esque machine was also a finalist, it was beaten by another Honda commercial called "Grrr" that's narrated by Garrison Keillor of all people. You've probably never seen it, but you can after the jump.

Volkswagen also made the list of finalists, but the particular ad chosen out of all the comical VW ads we've seen was unexpected as well. Most surprising carmaker with a commercial in the finals: Saturn. Who knew...

Just for fun we've put all 27 commercials after the break with the auto-related ones at the top, so you can enjoy the swear jar, the creepy-funky Philips clowns, a "rabbit panther thingy with turbines on ice," and the most sad-but-hilarious IKEA commercial we've ever seen. As a bonus we included the Gears of War commercial since we think it deserves a mention, and because it's almost the weekend and it doesn't always have to be about cars, does it? Follow the jump for the ad-fest.

[Source: Adweek]

Continue reading Honda wins Commercial of the Decade, but not for the ad you think [w/VIDEO]

Honda wins Commercial of the Decade, but not for the ad you think [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> advertisingadweekcommercialhondahonda commercialHondaCommercialsaturnsaturn commercialSaturnCommercialvolkswagenvolkswagen commercialVolkswagenCommercialvwvw commercialVwCommercial Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 rally cars provide perfect Friday soundtrack]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-porsche-911-gt3-rally-cars-provide-perfect-friday-soundtr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-porsche-911-gt3-rally-cars-provide-perfect-friday-soundtr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-porsche-911-gt3-rally-cars-provide-perfect-friday-soundtr/#comments Filed under: , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

Rally fans often stand at a corner or in the middle of a straight away, sometimes for hours, just to get a glimpse of their favorite car. If you're lucky, you get a prime spot at a sharp turn or abrupt elevation that leads to airborne cars. Lucky for us, the Internets exist so that the best moments of these races are captured for our enjoyment.

Over eight minutes of high-revving Porsche GT3 rally cars await you after the jump. Just about every shot is a keeper and the intense (and vivid) screams of the hopped up boxer engines is more than enough reason to spend a few minutes of your time watching the footage after the jump. Besides, you'll want to remember what it is to actually drive a car before heading out of the office and into rush-hour gridlock, right?

[Source: YouTube via 0-60]

Continue reading VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 rally cars provide perfect Friday soundtrack

VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 rally cars provide perfect Friday soundtrack originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 Porsche 9112009Porsche911911carreraGT3porschePorsche 911Porsche 933 GT3porsche 996porsche 998Porsche rallyporsche rally racerPorsche911Porsche933Gt3Porsche996Porsche998PorscheRallyPorscheRallyRacerrallyrally racingrallyingRallyRacingyoutube Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Citroën C3 Visiodrive advertisement is for swingers]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-citroen-c3-visiodrive-advertisement-is-for-swingers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-citroen-c3-visiodrive-advertisement-is-for-swingers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-citroen-c3-visiodrive-advertisement-is-for-swingers/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Citroen C3 Visiodrive commercial - Click above to watch video

A Citroën commercial without robots or an NRJ radio station soundtrack? We might have thought it impossible, but here it is. Promoting the new C3 hatchbach and its zenith windscreen meant to give you all kinds of panoramic views, the kids take this car on a joyride unlike any you're likely to see outside of a Top Gear episode.

Follow the jump for more information on the C3 and to see the swingin' commercial along with a special "making of" video.

[Source: Citroën via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Citroën C3 Visiodrive advertisement is for swingers

VIDEO: Citroën C3 Visiodrive advertisement is for swingers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 chevrolet camaro2010 citroen c32010ChevroletCamaro2010CitroenC3advertisingc3citroencitroen c3CitroenC3commercialvideo Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:57:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Dan Neil drives the Audi eTron, tells Musk and Fisker to watch out]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-dan-neil-drives-the-audi-etron-tells-musk-and-fisker-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-dan-neil-drives-the-audi-etron-tells-musk-and-fisker-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-dan-neil-drives-the-audi-etron-tells-musk-and-fisker-to/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Dan Neil drives the Audi e-tron - Click above to watch video

The LA Times' Pulitzer Prize-winning auto critic, Dan Neil, had a chance to sample the Audi e-tron while the electric R8 (R8e?) was down in So. Cal. for the LA Auto Show, and he's suitably impressed with the nine-month-old prototype that -- unlike your average concept -- is actually functional.

Not only does it go, stop and turn, the e-tron has a fully functional climate control system, power windows, MMI system and a host of other gadgets on board, making it a rarity in the world of one-off concepts. Granted, it's still just an overly-stylized mule (thankfully, the million-spoke wheels were dispatched in favor of the R8 V10's hoops), but this is less about the driving experience (although Neil raves about the dynamics and power delivery) and more about the world's largest automakers getting into the electric vehicle game.

Neil's primary point is that while Tesla and Fisker are laying the foundation for EV proliferation, automakers like Audi, Ford, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen all have electric whips in the works. Neil contends that the standards set by the major OEMs are what's going to drive EVs into the mainstream and if the e-tron (and the forthcoming electric Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG) are any indication, enthusiasts can have their cake and eat it too. Check out the full write-up and hit the jump for Dan's video review.


Gallery: LA 2009: Orange Audi e-tron


[Source: LA Times]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dan Neil drives the Audi eTron, tells Musk and Fisker to watch out

VIDEO: Dan Neil drives the Audi eTron, tells Musk and Fisker to watch out originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi e-tronaudi etronAudiE-tronAudiEtrondan neildan neil audi e-trondan neil audi etronDanNeilDanNeilAudiE-tronDanNeilAudiEtrone-tronetronvideo Fri, 18 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Turbocharged BMW-powered Yugo highboy has us reconsidering the GV]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-turbocharged-bmw-powered-yugo-highboy-has-us-reconsiderin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-turbocharged-bmw-powered-yugo-highboy-has-us-reconsiderin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-turbocharged-bmw-powered-yugo-highboy-has-us-reconsiderin/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Vprache BMW six-cylinder turbo Yugo in hoon mode - Click above to watch video

In the beginning, there was a yellow Yugo GV. And when the folks at Vprache Racing cast their eyes over it, they thought it was missing something. So they gave it an 3.5-liter BMW inline six-cylinder transplant and added a turbo besides. And an intercooler mounted on the grille. And a high-rise lift job. Then they took it hooning. And that was the end of the first day.

When that wasn't enough, they added another turbo and fashioned arches to cover the exposed rubber. And then they took it drag racing. And that was the end of the second day. You can check out videos of the car in both iterations after the jump. It's fast. And in a yellow Yugo, you'd want to be.

[Sources: Tampa Sports Car Examiner; YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Turbocharged BMW-powered Yugo highboy has us reconsidering the GV

VIDEO: Turbocharged BMW-powered Yugo highboy has us reconsidering the GV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> BMWbmw engineBmwEnginedrag racingDragRacingdriftinghoonhooningI6in-line-sixinline-6inline-sixvideoVpracheVprache racingVpracheRacingyugoYugo GVYugoGvzastava Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: How not to behave during a traffic stop]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-how-not-to-behave-during-a-traffic-stop/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-how-not-to-behave-during-a-traffic-stop/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-how-not-to-behave-during-a-traffic-stop/#comments Filed under: , ,

The roadside siren -- Click above to watch video

The prospect of getting a ticket can make you do a lot of things you wouldn't normally do -- beg, plead, be charming, anything goes, really, when it comes to fending off points and higher insurance premiums. Well, not anything, unless you're this woman, who went nuts at the idea of being ticketed. Like, crazy nuts.

We don't know who she is or what she did or what ungodly nightmare she was trying to avoid, but we do know she's got a set of pipes. If anyone can tell us what she's saying, please let us know in the comments. Follow the jump for the video, and keep your hand on the volume knob for this one.

[Source: Live Leak via Ryan O'Keefe]

Continue reading VIDEO: How not to behave during a traffic stop

VIDEO: How not to behave during a traffic stop originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> policeticketvideo Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Valet vigilante vandalism visualizes very vunerable vehicles]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-valet-vigilante-vandalism-visualizes-very-vunerable-vehic/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-valet-vigilante-vandalism-visualizes-very-vunerable-vehic/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-valet-vigilante-vandalism-visualizes-very-vunerable-vehic/#comments Filed under: ,

Valets burning all kinds of rubber -- Click above to watch video

We suppose we should thank some of the less savvy lunkheads out there for their egos - if they didn't post videos of their antics, they might not be caught. A few valets in the employ of Atlanta-based AAA Valet, working at the St. Louis Hyatt hotel, used patrons cars for serious burnout sessions in an underground garage. Nothing was spared - Civics, SUVs, Porsches, Acuras; it appears that if it could be driven, they would find a way to eat up its tires.

The clincher: the digital displays of drifting doom ended up on YouTube under the profile of "Valet Underground". Someone blew the whistle, and now AAA valet doesn't service the Hyatt hotel anymore. Not surprisingly, the videos are gone - we just hope their licenses have met the same fate. Follow the jump to check out the action. Hat tip to Luke!

[Source: Fox2 Now]

Continue reading VIDEO: Valet vigilante vandalism visualizes very vunerable vehicles

VIDEO: Valet vigilante vandalism visualizes very vunerable vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> etcvaletvalet parkingValetParkingvideo Thu, 17 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-lamborghinis-valentino-balboni-drifting-a-lamborghini-va/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-lamborghinis-valentino-balboni-drifting-a-lamborghini-va/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/video-lamborghinis-valentino-balboni-drifting-a-lamborghini-va/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

All hail the drift king, Valentino Balboni - Click above to view the video after the jump

Fate is a funny thing. It was our destiny to get a ride with Valentino Balboni in a Lamborghini LP550-2 Valentino Balboni during rush hour traffic in Los Angeles. Lucky? Absolutely, though we may have crested 50 mph once... maybe. Would we have preferred to have been in the passenger seat of this here limeade green Valentino Balboni as Lamborghini's legendary test driver literally hoons the rear tires off the car? Dear God, yes!!

The following video is actually a pretty good demonstration of the difference between RWD and AWD vehicles. You'll see the Mr. Balboni flinging the LP550-2 around a corner, the rear sliding out a touch before he applies just a dab of oppo' to get the V10-powered, rear-wheel drive mini-monster back in line. This is followed by an AWD LP560-4 which simply can't break traction and sort of gracelessly shunts and shutters its way around the corner. Faster, no doubt -- but not nearly as fun to watch. And then there are sparks and smoke and trust us you'll love this. Watch the video, after the jump.

[Source: YouTube via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni

VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> DriftDriftingLamborghiniLamborghini GallardoLamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino BalboniLamborghini Gallardo LP560-4Lamborghini LP550-2Lamborghini LP550-2 Valentino BalboniLamborghini LP560-4Lamborghini Valentino BalboniLamborghiniGallardoLamborghiniGallardoLp550-2ValentinoBalboniLamborghiniGallardoLp560-4LamborghiniLp550-2LamborghiniLp550-2ValentinoBalboniLamborghiniLp560-4LamborghiniValentinoBalboniLP550-2LP560-4Valentino BalboniValentinoBalboni Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:40:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: In Da Club Cherokee? Enterprising kids go all Jeep techno]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-in-da-club-cherokee-enterprising-kids-go-all-jeep-techno/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-in-da-club-cherokee-enterprising-kids-go-all-jeep-techno/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-in-da-club-cherokee-enterprising-kids-go-all-jeep-techno/#comments Filed under: , ,

Jeep Cherokee beatbox - Click above to watch video

If your Jeep Cherokee has been sitting around for a while, it probably makes a few noises. You might not mind, though, if they were noises as well orchestrated as those in the video shown above.

British saxophonist Julian Smith spent a few hours with a Cherokee and an array of friends with rhythm and came up with a number that could be straight out of Stomp. Or an Art of Noise album. Follow the jump to see the vid, and as a bonus, there's another take on car beats with Snob Scrilla and a Toyota Yaris. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: In Da Club Cherokee? Enterprising kids go all Jeep techno

VIDEO: In Da Club Cherokee? Enterprising kids go all Jeep techno originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> beatboxcherokeeetcjeepjeep cherokeeJeepCherokeejulian smithJulianSmithmusicmusic videoMusicVideoSnob ScrillaSnobScrillaToyota YarisToyotaYarisvideo Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:28:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Twin-turbo Viper-powered LMC Super Cuda shatters 200 mph against Ferrari Enzo]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-twin-turbo-viper-powered-lmc-super-cuda-shatters-200-mph/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-twin-turbo-viper-powered-lmc-super-cuda-shatters-200-mph/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-twin-turbo-viper-powered-lmc-super-cuda-shatters-200-mph/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

LMC Super 'Cuda vs. Ferrari Enzo - Click above to watch video

Legendary Motorcar Company built a Super 'Cuda for SEMA - no, not with a modern Dodge Challenger, with an actual Barricuda - and then decided to find out what it could do. The car is stuffed with engine and rubber: A twin-turbo Viper V10 with at least 1,000 horsepower, along with 345-series, 19-inch tires in back. So about the only place they could test it properly was Chrysler's Chelsea, Michigan proving grounds. For good measure, the folks at LMC brought a Ferrari Enzo along as well.

Needless to say, in a straight line drag, the Super 'Cuda owns the Enzo. The green monster and its turbine howls raced through the air so quickly that the windshield molding came off and the hood lifted by three inches. When it came to top speed, however - and in all likelihood, real-life cornering- the Enzo took the round, going 218 mph to the 'Cuda's 208 mph. The 'Cuda probably could have gone faster, but vintage aerodynamics and driver heebie-jeebies put paid to that. Get all the action in the video after the jump. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: Car Chat]

Continue reading VIDEO: Twin-turbo Viper-powered LMC Super Cuda shatters 200 mph against Ferrari Enzo

VIDEO: Twin-turbo Viper-powered LMC Super Cuda shatters 200 mph against Ferrari Enzo originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Dodge ViperDodgeViperEnzoFerrariFerrari EnzoFerrariEnzoLegendary Motor CarsLegendaryMotorCarsLMCMoparSuper CudaSuperCudaV-10V10videoViper V-10Viper V10ViperV-10ViperV10 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:56:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Nevermind that it's not Halloween, behold the best use for a RHD car ever]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-nevermind-that-its-not-halloween-behold-the-best-use-fo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-nevermind-that-its-not-halloween-behold-the-best-use-fo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-nevermind-that-its-not-halloween-behold-the-best-use-fo/#comments Filed under: ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

We're a couple months past Halloween, but this video was just too good to pass up. A gentleman with an old XBox steering wheel, a fake skeleton and a couple black lights managed to scare the holy hell out of some folks by making it look like a glowing blue skeleton was driving his car. How did he do it? The key is to have a right-hand drive vehicle and a little bit of creativity.

The Halloween prankster rigged the steering wheel to his Toyota Sera by propping it up on a 2x4 stand and holding it in place with a heavy bag of pennies. He painted the skeleton white and added a couple black lights in the door jam and attached to the sun visor. He then dressed himself in all black and waited for night fall. The end result is a scary-looking blue skeleton that's ready to send a chill down the spine of the living. Hit the jump to for the full rundown on how it was done - it's worth it to hear the screams emanating from onlookers.

[Source: StreetFire]

Continue reading VIDEO: Nevermind that it's not Halloween, behold the best use for a RHD car ever

VIDEO: Nevermind that it's not Halloween, behold the best use for a RHD car ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> driving skeletonDrivingSkeletonhalloweenright hand driveRightHandDriveskelletontoyota seraToyotaSera Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: The Fastest Yellow and Red - Best (and most ambitious) stop-motion diecast car film ever?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-the-fastest-yellow-and-red-best-and-most-ambitious-st/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-the-fastest-yellow-and-red-best-and-most-ambitious-st/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-the-fastest-yellow-and-red-best-and-most-ambitious-st/#comments Filed under: , ,

Fastest Yellow and Red -- Click above to watch video

It took just one minute and 13 seconds into this video for us to scream "Epic!" In fact, we're not sure there's enough epic epicness in that single word to properly describe the epic proportions contained therein.

This 1970's JDM homage has got it all: A yellow Pontiac Trans-Am of the Screaming Chicken era, a race-prepped red Nissan GT-R police car, a yellow Datsun Fairlady 280ZX and lots of meddling trucks. As if that weren't enough, there are little green army men and a special effects regime that could have been overseen by Michael Bay. And it has a really odd name. Luxe37, we have no idea who you are, but we salute you. Follow the jump to watch the stop-motion mayhem.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Fastest Yellow and Red - Best (and most ambitious) stop-motion diecast car film ever?

VIDEO: The Fastest Yellow and Red - Best (and most ambitious) stop-motion diecast car film ever? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 280Zanimationarmy menArmyMendiecastFairladyfastest yellow and redFastestYellowAndRedJDMNissan GT-RNissanGt-rPontiac trans-amPontiacTrans-amstop motionstop-motionStopMotionTrans-Amvideovintage japanVintageJapanyoutube Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Last Mustang Unleashed short combines magic and Las Vegas strip]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/last-mustang-unleashed-video-combines-magic-and-las-vegas-strip/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/last-mustang-unleashed-video-combines-magic-and-las-vegas-strip/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/last-mustang-unleashed-video-combines-magic-and-las-vegas-strip/#comments Filed under: , ,

Steve Wyrick's Mustang Unleashed stunt -- Click above to watch video

There have been rallies and skateboards and drag races and tattoos, among other things. Now, the tenth and final film of the 2010 pony car festival that is Mustang Unleashed has gone out in smoky style, with a big Las Vegas number filmed on the strip. This time Vaughn Gittin, Jr. plays a support role to Hard Rock's illusionist Steve Wyrick, who pulls off a little sleight-of-car-and-body that channels Houdini and almost any Nicholas Cage stunt scene that has a car in it.

Like the best tricks, it isn't long but will have you wondering how it was done. If you get any ideas, the video warns you not to try this at home - not even driving - without the use of magic. Follow the jump to see it for yourself.

[Source: Mustang Unleashed]

Continue reading VIDEO: Last Mustang Unleashed short combines magic and Las Vegas strip

VIDEO: Last Mustang Unleashed short combines magic and Las Vegas strip originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 ford2010 ford mustang2010 mustang2010Ford2010FordMustang2010Mustangmarketingmustangmustang unleashedMustangUnleashedvideo Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Gag Me With a Yule Log - GM allows kids to track Santa Claus via Onstar]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-gag-me-with-a-yule-log-gm-to-allow-kids-to-track-santa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-gag-me-with-a-yule-log-gm-to-allow-kids-to-track-santa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-gag-me-with-a-yule-log-gm-to-allow-kids-to-track-santa/#comments Filed under: ,

Santa pays a visit to OnStar -- Click above to view the video after the jump

OnStar has provided nothing but good press lately for General Motors, and the automaker is going to ride that pony all the way to the finish. The next person in line to take advantage of OnStar's benefits is that Arctic gadget freak himself, Santa Claus. Unveiled as an installed option on his new sleigh - which he picked up when he dropped by OnStar HQ - it comes with at least one extra feature you won't be getting anytime soon: a reindeer health meter.

But you haven't been left out of the bonanza. GM has partnered with NORAD so that if you have an OnStar subscription, you can keep track of K. Kringle during his midnight run. From 6 a.m. on Christmas Eve until early Christmas morning, press the blue button and OnStar will update you on the hour with info relayed by the guys deep in the mountain.

It's not a Red Ryder BB gun with a compass in the stock, but it's a start. Follow the jump for the press release and watch Santa get his Christmas present.

[Source: OnStar]

Continue reading VIDEO: Gag Me With a Yule Log - GM allows kids to track Santa Claus via Onstar

VIDEO: Gag Me With a Yule Log - GM allows kids to track Santa Claus via Onstar originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> etcnoradonstarsantasanta clausSantaClausvideo Tue, 15 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Motorcycle + rocket launcher = mayhem]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-motorcycle-rocket-launcher-mayhem/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-motorcycle-rocket-launcher-mayhem/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-motorcycle-rocket-launcher-mayhem/#comments Filed under: ,

Motorcycle Rocket Launcher - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The last time we were out riding a sportbike, it occurred to us that the most pressing thing missing from modern two-wheelers is weaponry. No, really. Think back in history for a moment... back to the days when horses provided the bulk of our transportation options. Whether it was the days of armored knights or mounted cavalrymen, one thing was constant: weapons. So, shouldn't we be packing a little sumthin' on our modern-day steel horses?

At least one enterprising 2006 Honda CBR owner seems to agree with us, and thankfully he's taken the initial steps to do something about it. How so? By adding a side-mounted rocket launcher. One button click is all it takes to send what appears to be a bottle rocket shooting off into the distance ahead. We'll go ahead and assume more substantial artillery will come with future revisions. Click past the break to watch the video. Hat tip to yknott!

[Source: The Biker Gene]

Continue reading VIDEO: Motorcycle + rocket launcher = mayhem

VIDEO: Motorcycle + rocket launcher = mayhem originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> motorcyclemotorcycle rocket launchermotorcycle weaponmotorcycle weaponsMotorcycleRocketLaunchermotorcyclesMotorcycleWeaponMotorcycleWeaponsrocketrocket launcherRocketLauncher Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Photographer snaps drag car crash with nerves of steel]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-photographer-snaps-drag-car-crash-with-nerves-of-steel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-photographer-snaps-drag-car-crash-with-nerves-of-steel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-photographer-snaps-drag-car-crash-with-nerves-of-steel/#comments Filed under: ,


Click above to watch video of the crash after the jump

When a 250-mph funny car suddenly loses control and launches like a missile in your direction, common sense dictates that the best thing to do is run away. As fast as possible. While the instincts of the shutter bugs at Pomona Raceway in California told most to run for cover, Andy Willsheer just kept on shooting. And when Steve Gasparrelli's Ford Mustang funny car came screaming at him full tilt and completely out of control, Willsheer snapped off several of the most up close and personal shots you'll ever see.

Gasparrelli's Mustang funny car slipped on some oil right out of the gate and made an immediate 90-degree right turn right for the concrete barrier. The drag car was immediately upended by the barrier just three feet from where Willsheer was shooting. Neither Willsheer or Gasparrelli were seriously hurt in the incident. We're not sure if Willsheer was brave or stupid for not moving, but we sure do like the pics. Be sure to head over to the Daily Mail to check out Willsheer's amazing photos and hit the jump to watch video of the accident. Pretty amazing stuff.

[Source: Daily Mail]

Continue reading VIDEO: Photographer snaps drag car crash with nerves of steel

VIDEO: Photographer snaps drag car crash with nerves of steel originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Andy WillsheerAndyWillsheerdrag racingDragRacingfunny carfunny car accidentFunnyCarFunnyCarAccident Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:31:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Pastrana practice for record New Year's Eve jump goes awry]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-pastrana-practice-for-record-new-years-eve-jump-goes-awr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-pastrana-practice-for-record-new-years-eve-jump-goes-awr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-pastrana-practice-for-record-new-years-eve-jump-goes-awr/#comments Filed under: ,

Travis Pastrana's practice jump - Click above to watch the video after the break

This is what we mean when we say Travis Pastrana is insane. Generally, whenever the world sees a ridiculous freestyle dirtbike or automobile trick, it goes off without a hitch. It almost seems like a foregone conclusion that the rider is going to execute a perfect jump or flip, wave to the cameras and hug his significant others. There's a reason for that...

That reason? In a word: Practice. Yes, just like your first grade teacher drilled into you decades ago, practice makes perfect. Usually. As you'll see in the video after the break, practice sessions are just as dangerous and death-defying as the actual stunts themselves. In fact, sometimes even more so.

For this particular feat of craziness, Pastrana is actually planning to jump off a ramp at the end of a pier over 250 feet of water to a waiting barge as part of a New Year's celebration. Assuming practice sessions indicate that it's possible... which, well, just hit the jump to watch the video.

[Source: YouTube via Auto-Focus.us]

Continue reading VIDEO: Pastrana practice for record New Year's Eve jump goes awry

VIDEO: Pastrana practice for record New Year's Eve jump goes awry originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> New Yearnew years eveNewYearNewYearsEveRally Carrally car jumpRallyCarRallyCarJumpred bullRed Bull New Year No Limitsred bull racingRedBullRedBullNewYearNoLimitsRedBullRacingtravis pastranaTravisPastranaworld record jumpWorldRecordJump Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: The Michael Winslow of engine impressionists]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-the-michael-winslow-of-engine-impressionists/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-the-michael-winslow-of-engine-impressionists/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-the-michael-winslow-of-engine-impressionists/#comments Filed under: ,

The engine impressionist (warning: NSFW language) -- Click above to watch video

Remember Michael Winslow, the guy from the Police Academy movies and The Man of 10,000 Effects? When it comes to cars, this gent could be his follow-up act, having worked out his own technique for imitating a number of powerplants.

There are a selection of engine sounds on offer, including a convincing import four-cylinder, two-stroke motorbike, a V6, and a Weedwacker among others - and what else are you going to do while the xBox loads up a game? You can check out his repertoire in the video after the jump. *WARNING: NSFW language. Thanks for the tip, Duy!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Michael Winslow of engine impressionists

VIDEO: The Michael Winslow of engine impressionists originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> engine soundsEngineSoundsimpressionimpressionistimpressionsmichael winslowMichaelWinslowvideoyoutube Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: <i>EVO</i> does 0-100 mph in Porsche's new 911 Turbo... with a Coke and a smile]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-evo-does-0-100-mph-in-porsches-new-911-turbo-with-a-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-evo-does-0-100-mph-in-porsches-new-911-turbo-with-a-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-evo-does-0-100-mph-in-porsches-new-911-turbo-with-a-c/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Evo takes a 911 Turbo and a Coke from 0-100 - Click above to watch video

When the Porsche 997 Turbo first came out and it was discovered that you could get from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds in the Tiptronic automatic transmission (which was quicker than the manual gearbox), that was incredible enough. In the updated 997 Turbo with PDK, however, you can apparently get to 100 mph in less than eight seconds with just three fingers on the wheel and a bottle of Coke at your lips.

Things coming out of Stuttgart are no longer incredible, they're outrageous. Follow the jump to watch Chris Harris do a bit of drinking and driving.

[Source: EVO]

Continue reading VIDEO: EVO does 0-100 mph in Porsche's new 911 Turbo... with a Coke and a smile

VIDEO: EVO does 0-100 mph in Porsche's new 911 Turbo... with a Coke and a smile originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 911 Turbo2010 Porsche 911 Turbo2010911Turbo2010Porsche911Turbo911 turbo911Turbo997 turbo997Turbococa colaCocaColacokedrinking and drivingDrinkingAndDrivingevoPorschePorsche 911 TurboPorsche911Turbo Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: GM commissions Chevrolet Volt dance to go with song. Yes, really.]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-gm-commissions-chevrolet-volt-dance-to-go-with-song-yes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-gm-commissions-chevrolet-volt-dance-to-go-with-song-yes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-gm-commissions-chevrolet-volt-dance-to-go-with-song-yes/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Volt Dance - Click above to watch the video after the break

"E for electricity, V for Chevy Volt and me..." Catchy little diddly, sure. But we were mostly willing to let the Chevrolet Volt song make the deep, dark trek into obscurity with nary another mention. That is, until today. What made us change our tune, you ask? Boy, are you in for a treat.

Witness the Chevy Volt dance. Yes, it is an official routine apparently commissioned by GM. Showgoers that meandered near the GM area at the LA Auto Show may already be familiar with this little number, but the video's just too good not to share with the rest of the class. We especially like it when the four-person crew stops whatever they're doing to throw us an "E" and a "V."

Trust us. You owe it to yourself to click past the break and watch the video. Here's hoping The General antes up to send these dancers around the country for the rest of the auto show circuit.

[Source: GM-Volt.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: GM commissions Chevrolet Volt dance to go with song. Yes, really.

VIDEO: GM commissions Chevrolet Volt dance to go with song. Yes, really. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVoltchevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltchevy volt dancechevy volt songChevyVoltChevyVoltDanceChevyVoltSongvoltvolt dancevolt songVoltDanceVoltSong Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:57:00 EST