Mercedes celebrates 125 years with B-Class F-Cell World Tour - Update

On January 29, 1886, Carl Benz filed the patent for his three-wheeled "vehicle with gas engine operation" setting the first milestone for a completely new form of transportation. Some 125 years later, Daimler AG, and its Mercedes Benz unit, is seizing the opportunity to not only to look back through history and highlight the milestones of automotive development, but also to give insight into the future of mobility. Mercedes Benz is taking its B-Class-based, F-Cell hydrogen fuel cell vehicle on a World Tour that will take 125 days to visit 14 countries on 4 continents. The World Tour will show the practicality, safety, and economy of Mercedes' fuel-cell technology that will see production.

Fuel cell stacks use hydrogen as fuel to generate electricity which (in this case) is stored in lithium-ion batteries to power the vehicle and its accessories. The only emission from the vehicle's fuel-cell power generation is water which makes fuel cells very clean and energy efficient depending on the hydrogen source. Since hydrogen refilling stations are part of the infrastructure that is being put in place as we speak (just like EV charging stations), it will be some time before we see many of these cars on the road (Honda's Clarity is an exception). Fuel cell vehicles deal with an EV owner's range anxiety by taking the electrical-generation plant with you. Honda is even developing a hydrogen refilling station for your home that converts natural gas into hydrogen for your car. More to come...

The new pic below shows the F-Cell group entering France on the first leg of the trip 'round the world. The world route map is now after the jump.

Source: Mercedes Benz - Extensive press releases after the jump.

Jeep Black Ops still reigns, This Week's Top posts as of January 30th

While the Jeep Black Ops Edition Breaks Cover is still #1, the new top five are gaining ground surprisingly. The Black Ops game and the Jeep that lives in it are still popular.

The #2 spot is taken by the post: Ford to offer high mileage, hybrid version of the new C-Max. The five-seat C-Max Hybrid (regular hybrid model) and the C-Max Energi (plug-in hybrid, shown right) will be two of Ford's electrification efforts in the next year.

Next up is the New family-friendly Transit Connect unveiled post. This post from November talks about the changes Ford has made to their vanlet to transition it from commercial to family van.

Following up on the #2 post is the Ford US-Market C-Max shown before Detroit debut post that comes in at #4 providing info about the regular production C-Max (including several press releases with extensive info) and a link to a video post.

Porsche "Cajun" gets the greenlight post about Porsche's upcoming small SUV/CUV takes the #5 spot.

Recent posts over at uautoknow.net - Classic:

Subaru sponsors Super Bowl counter programming - Subaru once again sponsors Animal Planet's Puppy Bowl. Post includes commercial video after the press release.

Super Bowl MVP to get Camaro Convertible - Sorta self explanatory.

Jaguar's iconic E-Type celebrates fifty years - This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the introduction of the E-Type (aka XKE).

And the Classic site's most viewed post this week, New Sharan MPV shown in Europe, is from July and yet was this week's most popular post. Go figure. With Ford introducing the C-Max, don't be surprised if we see a version of VW's Sharan (below) here to replace (or join) the Routan minivan that is sourced from Chrysler

Hyundai Curb concept showcases BlueLink tech

Hyundai displayed the Curb crossover concept at this year's Detroit Auto Show to showcase the company's BlueLink technology. The Curb is called an urban activity vehicle (UAV) by Hyundai (as if we don't have enough three letter vehicle descriptors) that has a few unique features that may see production. Firstly, there is Hyundai's BlueLink suite of technology that provides the ultimate connectivity through a 12-inch dash display and additional info through the windshield heads-up display. BlueLink will provide all the infotainment apps that you could want plus a few new ones like valet alert, Geofence, speed alert, and curfew info, as well as the expected remote door unlock / lock, remote horn / lights status, panic notification, remote vehicle start, automatic crash notification, and much more (see full description in press release after the jump). Another cool feature is the startup sequence that illuminates the Curb’s numerous LED lights sequentially, starting with the outside rows and then the Curb’s badging illuminates through the paint. Shamze Custom Coatings developed the special paint finish allowing the Curb name to illuminate through the paint. Another cool item is the pop-up roof rack (pic after the jump) and the pull-out bike rack. How many of these features will see production? Who knows but some of them will, especially a version of Hyundai BlueLink. Overall the vehicle is reminiscent of the Nissan Juke not only in style, but in mission with the Curb being Hyundai's take on the young urban dweller's vehicle of the connected future. Throw in the 1.6-liter Gamma four with direct-injection and turbocharger (175 hp) mated to Hyundai's DSG automanual and excellent fuel economy will be added to the mix. Do me a favor Hyundai, clean up the overwrought front end will ya, otherwise go for it.

Source: Hyundai - Press release after the jump.

Volvo shows V60 plug-in hybrid before Geneva debut

Volvo has released info surrounding their V60 Plug-in Hybrid that will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show. The V60 wagon (or estate in Euro speak) features a 2.4 liter turbodiesel that creates 215 hp that drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic. The 70 hp electric motor drives the rear wheels that is backed up by a lithium-ion battery pack. I think we will see more manufacturers separate the regular propulsion systems from their hybrid drives in this way for ease of engineering, packaging, and simplicity. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has been shown to achieve more then 120 mpg in early testing. Now that Volvo has Chinese ownership, maybe we will see their diesel offerings brought to the US (although early reports say that Volvo is simplifying their US line-up). We can only hope to see this one on our shores. More to come...

Source: Volvo - Brief press release and pics after the jump.

Volkswagen XL1 concept may see production in 2013

VW has been developing these highly efficient concepts for several years and the XL1, that will be shown at the Qatar Auto Show, is the latest development in this series. The plug-in hybrid XL1 uses a two-cylinder turbodiesel (basically half of one of VW's 1.6-liter TDI fours) with a hybrid system using lithium-ion batteries to power the XL1 to sixty in less than twelve seconds with fuel economy in excess of 250 mpg. Yes, 250 mpg. The XL1 weighs less than 1,600 lbs due to lightweight construction materials (carbon-fiber polymers) and techniques that VW has developed that will probably spread to other vehicles. It is good to see that VW has continued development of this range of concepts since these processes have allowed VW to get the costs low enough for the two-seat XL1 to see limited production in about two years. It will be interesting to see if the side- and rear-view cameras make it to production (there is no rear window since the engine and hybrid system is mounted over the rear, driving axle). Some of VW's UP city car concepts have used rear-engine, rear-wheel drive so the powertrain in the XL1 may see eventual production in those vehicles as well. For more info, check out the releases and tech chart after the jump. (I apologize for the slight blue cast to the pics but that happens from time to time with pics I get from the German manufacturers).

Source: Volkswagen - Press releases (5) and additional pics after the jump.

Porsche Announces the 2012 911 Black Edition Carrera Coupe and Cabriolet

Porsche has taken the wraps off of the latest 911 variation, the 2012 911 Black Edition. These new coupes and convertibles (cabriolets in Porsche-speak) will come in any color as long as it's black (Solid Black) or metallic black (Basalt Black Metallic). The special editions are based on the 911 Carrera with the 345-hp six with a six-speed manual or optionally with Porsche's PDK dual-clutch, seven-speed automanual. Black Edition standard features will include a BOSE® Surround Sound-System, the Porsche touchscreen Communication Management (PCM) system, XM Radio, XM NavTraffic, GPS-based navigation, 19-inch 911 Turbo II two-color wheels and more. The extra equipment in the Black Edition represents a $6,000 savings over a regular production model with the same equipment. MSRP will be $81,300 for the Coupe and $91,300 for the Cabriolet (plus taxes, license and other fees), and will be available in the spring of 2011. About 600 911 Black Edition Carreras will come to the US, so contact your dealer ASAP if this is your idea of the perfect Porsche 911.

Source: Porsche - Press release after the jump.

Aston Martin expands the Vantage line-up with the V8 Vantage S

Aston Martin is increasing its offerings with the addition of the V8 Vantage S to the vehicle menu. Available as either a coupe or convertible, the V8 Vantage S has a breathed-on engine with more power (430 hp) that puts the power to the road through a new seven-speed, dual-clutch  Sportshift™ II automanual transmission. The new transmission offers the best of both worlds with fully automated gear changes with the efficiency of a manual transmission. The V8 Vantage S also features a revised suspension and braking systems and quicker steering. The bodywork is updated with inspirations from the V12 Vantage with a unique front splitter and bumper, wide side sills, and a new rear bumper (regular V8 Vantage convertible rear shot shown below - compare with V8 Vantage S front pics above and after the jump.). New 19 inch ‘V’ spoke wheels are standard, while an optional 10-spoke lightweight forged wheel option further reduces unsprung weight for even greater handling. The V8 Vantage S, which combines many of the features of the V12 Vantage with the more efficient V8 engine, is available for order now at your Aston dealer.

Source: Aston Martin - Press release after the jump.

Nissan Leaf named European Car of the Year"

The Nissan Leaf elecric vehicle has been named the "European Car of the Year" for 2011. In North America, Chevy's Volt (known as the Opel Ampera in Europe) beat the Leaf for the CotY honors. This is the first time an EV has won the award. Fifty-eight motoring journalists from twenty-three countries gave the award to the new Leaf ahead of six "conventional" vehicles. Pre-orders for Nissan's LEAF have reached more than 27,000 units globally. The zero-emission car is currently built in Japan, but will also be manufactured in the United States and the UK when new manufacturing facilities open in late 2012 and early 2013 respectively. Deliveries to individual customers have begun in Japan and the US and Europen deliveries will start shortly in Portugal, the Republic of Ireland, the UK and the Netherlands followed by more markets later in the year.

Source: Nissan - Press release after the jump.

Mercedes unleashes new CLS 63 AMG

The second-generation CLS is one of the prettiest of the crop of four-door coupes available on the market today. Mercedes and its tuner arm, AMG, have announced the release of the high-performance CLS, the CLS 63 AMG. The car comes equipped with AMG's 525 hp V8 (557 hp with the AMG Sport package) which will get you to sixty in just over four seconds. For the US, expect a fortified automatic to handle all of the engine's power. Expect all of the luxury and sports features (like the AMG wheels) that have come to signify all of AMG's offerings plus all the options your checkbook can give you. No word yet on what the US-market CLS 63 AMG will come with, but a look at previous models will give you a good idea. designo (lower case intended) options will allow you to create your own personal CLS 63 AMG including the matte paint schemes (that to this eye make the car looked primed but not painted) that are being shown today and carbon fiber and piano black trim in place of wood accents. For more info about this hi-po four-door coupe, read the Euro-focused press releases after the jump (including detailed releases regarding passive and active safety features). If your garage has room for only one performance car and the kids insist on going with you, this may be your car. But remember, the CLS 63 AMG only seats four so choose your riders carefully.

Source: Mercedes Benz - Euro press releases and pics after the jump.

Ford to offer high mileage, hybrid versions of the all-new C-Max

Ford has been introducing their promised five new electrified vehicles including the Transit Connect Electric (currently available) and the Focus Electric (available late 2011). Next up are the C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energi. The C-Max Hybrid and Energi are based on the five-passenger versions of the new C-Max people mover will enter production in 2012. The C-Max Hybrid is a regular hybrid version of the C-Max that will function much like the current Fusion, MKZ, and Escape hybrids (mileage is expected to surpass the Fusion's 41 mpg/city) but with newer "right-sized" lithium-ion battery packs that were developed by Ford. The C-Max Energi is a plug-in hybrid that will allow for longer electric-only running for reduced emissions and greater fuel efficiency. In fact, the C-Max Energi will run on electricity alone until the vehicle's batteries are depleted to a predetermined point maximizing economy (expected to best Chevy's Volt). Ford's new MyFord Mobile app will allow owners to check on the vehicle, check charge status, and to have the vehicle charge when electrical rates are the lowest (see press release for more). MyFord Touch will also allow driver's to maximize efficiency with the growing vines dash (like the Fusion) and help to maximize regenerative-brake performance. It will be interesting to see if Ford can maintain performance levels and bring the new vehicles to market at an affordable price to ensure sales and market penetration. More to come including a new dedicated hybrid vehicle...

Source: Ford - Press release after the jump.

Beautious BMW 6-Series convertible almost here

Okay I'll admit it. I think that the new BMW 6-Series Convertible is one of the most beautiful cars about to be on the road. It should be an instant classic. It has all the good stuff. Six-cylinder power? Check. Available V8? Check. Eight-Speed automatic transmission? Double check. What more could you ask from a four-seat droptop? Whatever it is, it's probably available or standard on this flagship sports convertible (check out the press release to be sure). Pics are hi-res so enjoy!

Source: BMW - Extensive press release and pics after the jump. Previous post.

Jeep Black Ops Edition still most popular post - 1/22

Below are the five most popular posts based on page views as of 1/22/11. Click on the title to view or review the post.

Once again, the Jeep Black Ops Edition breaks cover post is this week's most viewed post.

Surprisingly, the Motor Trend magazine names "SUV/CUV of the Year" came in at number two this week.

Nissan's Juke wins another award takes the number three spot.

Tied for the number three spot is the Hyundai shows new Veloster Coupe - Update post.

The Tesla releases Model S video claims the fifth spot.

Recent posts at uautoknow.net - Classic:

Nissan to offer free upfits and graphics packages on new NV van. Nissan is offering free external graphics wraps or internal fittings to new commercial customers purchasing or leading a new NV commercial van.

 Powermats come to the Volt. Chevrolet is developing Powermat cordless charging tech for their vehicles beginning with the new Volt hybrid. Powermat chargers allow the charging of phones, etc. by placing the items on the power mat (requires a special battery on the electronic device).

Ford wants personalization to come into Focus. Ford's new 2012 Focus will be available with various graphics packages that can be installed by your dealer. The Focus graphics are produced by the same company handling the Nissan commercial van graphics (above).

Kia predicts the future of the minivan with the KV7 Concept

Kia showed their vision of the future of the minivan at this year's Detroit Auto Show with the KV7 Concept. The KV7 is an attractive people and stuff hauler that possesses looks that just might remove some of the stigma that plagues minivans in today's marketplace. The chunky styling is in keeping with Kia's current offerings and looks production close with a few changes. Firstly, the gull-wing door, although cool, would not see production due to cost and the weight of the design. Power-sliding doors would be lighter and easier to use (the line from the taillights to the doors would be a great place to hide the slider tracks). The lounge seating and wood floors would also be goners but could make for an interesting option package don't you think? The multitudinous front headlights would be slimmed down to two or four, but the rest of the design would make for one great-looking minivan. Also, keep the Theta II 2.0-liter GDI turbocharged engine (285 hp) mated to a six-speed automatic transmission for plenty of go with great (for a minivan) fuel economy. I say build it Kia. What do you think?

Source: Kia - Extensive press release and additional pics after the jump.

Chevrolet shows Camaro Convertible for Indy - Update

Chevy has released info and images of this year's official Indy 500 pace car, the Camaro SS Convertible. It was further announced by the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale classic auto auction that the first of these special Camaro Convertible pace cars will be auctioned to benefit the David Foster Foundation which helps kids in need of organ transplants. The auction for the commemorative edition pace car takes place Saturday evening, Jan. 22, during the SPEED channel’s live coverage of the Barrett-Jackson event. The vehicle carries lot number 1284 and bids can be submitted at the auction in person or online by clicking this link for a 2011 absentee bidder registration packet.

The 2011 Camaro pace car is an SS convertible featuring the 400-hp V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission that is finished in Summit White with orange stripes and door graphics that echoes the 1969 Camaro pace car (see pic after the jump). The interior is trimmed in orange leather, including front seat headrests embossed with the Indy 500 logo, along with white door panels and instrument panel trim that features extensions of the orange exterior stripes. The pace car also includes the 2SS and RS packages that add features like four-wheel disc brakes with Brembo four-piston calipers, StabiliTrak electronic stability control, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels and performance tires, head-up instrument display, the center console with auxiliary gauge package, HID headlamps, and unique taillights. 2011 is the 100th anniversary of Chevrolet and the Indy 500 so let's hope that Chevy decides to make a few special pace car replicas of this attractive droptop for us regular folk. The Camaro Convertible hits dealer showrooms in February.

The Indy Camaro Convertible sold for $225,000.


Source: Chevrolet - Press release and pic after the jump.

Mercedes introduces the SLS AMG E-Cell

Automakers around the globe are showcasing their hybrid and electric vehicle technology in halo vehicles and Mercedes Benz is no exception. Mercedes took the wraps off the SLS AMG E-Cell electric supercar at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. The lithium-ion battery pack pushes the SLS AMG E-Cell to sixty in just four seconds which is just .2 seconds off of the time (3.8 seconds) posted by the 571-hp V8 powered production model. No range was released at this time. The Detroit show car was finished in fluorescent "AMG lumilectric magno" paint and features special AMG wheels and an interior optimized for an electric vehicle with special gauges and controls. I guarantee that this car won't get lost in a crowd or a parking lot for that matter. The placement of the batteries and equipment was determined to maximize weight distribution and maintain handling and performance. Tesla Motors has shown that there is a market for high-performance electric vehicles with the Roadster, and the gull-winged supercar offers the prospect of a possible small series production since it its based on an existing production model. The SLS AMG E-Cell won't be cheap if it does see production and will only be available in limited numbers. Who said our electrified vehicle future would be boring?

Source: Mercedes Benz - Extensive press release after the jump.

Saab shows new 9-5 SportCombi before Geneva debut

Saab has released info about the new 9-5 SportCombi or station wagon (aka estate) to regular folks. The SportCombi is Saab's next shot in its new vehicle offensive after the 9-5 sedan and the 9-4X crossover. Using the same all-turbo gasoline powertrain (bioethanol and diesel engines not available in the US at this time) line-up as the 9-5 sedan, the SportCombi includes Saab’s XWD all-wheel-drive system and advanced features such as: Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis control, adaptive cruise control, Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive lighting, keyless entry and starting, tri-zone air conditioning, and a Pilot Head-up Display which projects information, aircraft-style onto the windshield. Saab's new large wagon can handle cargo with features that include an adaptable multi-fold floor, flexible U-rail load space configuration system, under-floor stowage with a sealed wet storage compartment and an available programmable, powered tailgate. If you're looking for a large people and stuff mover, but don't want an SUV or crossover, Saab may have your answer. The 9-5 SportCombi will be available later this year and your dealer should be able to take your order this Spring.

Source: Saab - Press Release after the jump.

Toyota shows Prius family of vehicles

Toyota used the Detroit Auto Show to debut their new Prius family of vehicles including the Prius c Concept (above and right), the Prius Plug-In Hybrid, and the Prius v (below). The Prius c is a "cordless" (read non plug-in) hybrid kinda city car that might actually infuse a Prius with some fun. A lot of the Prius styling cues are there like the roofline but with a twist that fits the vehicle's different mission. Toyota refused to commit to actual production of the Prius c Concept, but did commit to a similar vehicle in the expanding Prius line up.

The first new member of the Prius family that will appear at your local dealer is the Prius v with the v standing for versatility and not van. The Prius v is a new vehicle and not an elongated sedan, although the styling is visually identical albeit in a larger package. The Prius v will utilize the current generation Prius drivetrain while providing more interior seating and cargo space. The "v" is the "family" Prius targeted at young families. The Prius v is expected to be EPA-rated at 42 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. Not bad fuel economy numbers for a people mover but the v should be even slower than the regular Prius. Expect the regular Prius options including a new resin Panoramic Roof and Entune audio.

Toyota also showed the Prius HPV (Hybrid Plug-in Vehicle - pic after the jump) that adds plug-in capability to charge the lithium-ion batteries before you begin regular motoring. The plug-in capability allows the Prius to drive on electricity alone for longer periods further increasing mileage. Toyota has sold almost one million Prii (Priuses?) in the US since the model's introduction in 2000 and the plug-in option will only add to those numbers when it goes on sale in 2012.

Source: Toyota - Press release and additional pics (including interior shots) after the jump.

Chevy Volt and Ford Explorer named 2011 North American Car and Truck of the Year

Chosen by a team of forty-nine journalists from the US and Canada, The Chevrolet Volt was chosen the North American Car of the Year for 2011 and the Ford Explorer took the Truck honors. The awards are designed to recognize the most outstanding new vehicles of a given year. These vehicles are benchmarks in their segments based on factors including innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction, and value. The Volt beat out the new Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Leaf and the Explorer blew away the new Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango. This award is seen as more significant than some others since it is not the product of a single news or enthusiast outlet.

Source: North American Car of the Year Organization - Brief press release as well as releases from each automaker after the jump.

Mazda Minagi to debut at the Geneva Motor Show

Even though Ford has reduced its ownership stake in Mazda, the two companies still have cooperative agreements on platform sharing, engineering, and more. Mazda will be showing the Minagi concept at the Geneva motor show in March and it's easy to see that the Minagi concept bears a more than passing resemblance to Ford's Vertrek Concept (see small photo at right). The Vertrek is set to replace or be the new Escape in the US (and possibly underpin a new Lincoln) and, since the Mazda Tribute is a lightly redesigned version of the Escape, it makes sense that Mazda might get a version of the new compact SUV/CUV of their own. The Minagi will showcase Mazda's new SkyActiv technologies and new Kodo design language. We shall see. Photos to come.

Source: Mazda - Press release after the jump.