Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 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[Volvo makes the XC60 disappear into art]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/volvo-makes-the-xc60-disappear-into-art/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/volvo-makes-the-xc60-disappear-into-art/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/volvo-makes-the-xc60-disappear-into-art/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



For the last few years, Volvo has set up an art display in the Zurich, Switzerland central train station called the Volvo Art Session, allowing select artists - both established and up-and-coming - to create temporary exhibits with one of Volvo's products acting as the centerpiece. This year, six artists from across Europe converged in Zurich to turn a 2014 Volvo XC60 into a work of art.

Each started with a blank white canvas, creating a massive display in what Volvo says is one of the busiest covered public places in Europe, and after each was done, it was all erased for the next artists to come in and do his or her thing. While some made the XC60 a focal point in the art, others made the crossover seemingly disappear. We have a gallery of all six finished pieces, but if you want to see background of the artists or time-lapse videos of their works, head over to VolvoArtSessions.com. This site also shows the exhibits from the prior two years, and a press release can be found below.

Continue reading Volvo makes the XC60 disappear into art

Volvo makes the XC60 disappear into art originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 volvo xc60art carvolvovolvo art sessionvolvo xc60zurich central train station Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20624123/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/17/volvo-makes-the-xc60-disappear-into-art/20624123/article-detail.xml 20624123 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/volvo-xc60-art-cars_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/volvo-xc60-art-cars.jpg <![CDATA[Flying electric-powered bike takes off in Czech Republic [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/flying-electric-bike-video-photos-invented-czech-republic/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/flying-electric-bike-video-photos-invented-czech-republic/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/flying-electric-bike-video-photos-invented-czech-republic/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Flying cars are no longer a thing of the Sci-Fi future, as they clearly exist based upon the updates we've seen on Terrafugia's flying car after its NYC debut a year ago and the report of this flying car falling from the sky and crashing.

So it should come as no surprise to hear three companies in the Czech Republic have teamed up to produce a functional prototype of a flying battery-powered electric bicycle. The 'flying bike' was recently shown to the media in Prague, where it successfully took off and landed safely after a brief five-minute flight inside an exhibition hall. Pretty cool eh?

Although the working prototype is currently controlled by remote and demonstrated without live people on it, its designers say they are working on plans to have it operated and carrying real people in the near future.

Click here to watch this amazing flying machine in action.

Gallery: Terrafugia Transition Flying Car

Continue reading Flying electric-powered bike takes off in Czech Republic [w/video]

Flying electric-powered bike takes off in Czech Republic [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bikebycicleCzech Republicelectricelectric bikeelectric vehicleflyingflying bicycleflying bike Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20622319/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/14/flying-electric-bike-video-photos-invented-czech-republic/20622319/article-detail.xml 20622319 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-06-12t124431z1840946241gm1e96c1l5h01rtrmadp3czech_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-06-12t124431z1840946241gm1e96c1l5h01rtrmadp3czech.jpg <![CDATA[Marchionne assures Fiat jobs will stay in Italy, amid Chrysler merger talks]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/08/marchionne-assures-fiat-jobs-will-stay-in-italy-amid-chrysler-m/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/08/marchionne-assures-fiat-jobs-will-stay-in-italy-amid-chrysler-m/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/08/marchionne-assures-fiat-jobs-will-stay-in-italy-amid-chrysler-m/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Even though Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has repeatedly said he won't pick up, leave Italy and take his Fiat factories with him, his occasional pointed comments about the challenges of running operations in that country has worried Italian politicians dealing with government, economic and labor-force seizures the past few years. After Fiat Industrial announced it was moving its headquarters to London and it was rumoured that the car division's HQ would move to Auburn Hills, MI after the merger with Chrysler, it was worried that more Italian jobs would disappear.

Industry Ministry Flavio Zanonato sought assurances from both Marchionne and Fiat chairman John Elkann that they would "commit to the country," and it appears those assurances have been given. Unemployment in Italy is at 20-year-highs and car sales are at 20-year-lows, but Marchionne said "We have confirmed our commitments for Italy" and the company will hold steady on employment. The nation and the corporation said they would work together to "relaunch Italy's car market," although it's not clear what either of them will be able to do beyond wait it out. At the very least, Fiat's stance means there's one less ball the country's politicians have to juggle.

Continue reading Marchionne assures Fiat jobs will stay in Italy, amid Chrysler merger talks

Marchionne assures Fiat jobs will stay in Italy, amid Chrysler merger talks originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chysleremploymentfiatflavio zanonatoitalyjohn elkannmergerplantssergio marchionne Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20595050/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/08/marchionne-assures-fiat-jobs-will-stay-in-italy-amid-chrysler-m/20595050/article-detail.xml 20595050 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sergio-marchionne-628-1370029018_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sergio-marchionne-628-1370029018.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW R1200GS and HP4 duel at Circuito de Almeria]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/2013-bmw-r1200gs-and-hp4-duel-at-circuito-de-almeria/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/2013-bmw-r1200gs-and-hp4-duel-at-circuito-de-almeria/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/2013-bmw-r1200gs-and-hp4-duel-at-circuito-de-almeria/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

BMW R1200GS vs BMW HP4 on track - video screencap

The 2013 BMW HP4 is the track-ready version of the manufacturer's already mighty S1000RR, which puts the bike at the very tip top of the two-wheeled BMW food chain. The R1200GS, meanwhile, is intended to be a somewhat more utilitarian machine. Capable of conveying both rider and gear over vast distances and uncertain terrain, the big-boy GS is the Swiss army knife to the HP4's rapier. Or at least that's what we've always been led to believe. BMW recently rolled out some footage during a press launch that showed the R1200GS is actually no slouch when it comes time to sling around a road course.

The company threw both bikes on Spain's Circuito de Almeria for a little sparring match, and miraculously, the HP4 didn't just up and walk away from the R1200GS. From from it. Instead, the two stay tightly matched through most of the course before something surprising happens. We won't spoil the ending for you. Is it possible the rider on the HP4 still had some in reserve? Sure, but from the sound and look of things, neither bike was giving an inch. Check out all the video action below for yourself.

Continue reading 2013 BMW R1200GS and HP4 duel at Circuito de Almeria

2013 BMW R1200GS and HP4 duel at Circuito de Almeria originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw hp4bmw motorcyclesbmw motorradbmw r1200gsbmw s1000rrr1200gsvideo Wed, 05 Jun 2013 12:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20600449/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/05/2013-bmw-r1200gs-and-hp4-duel-at-circuito-de-almeria/20600449/article-detail.xml 20600449 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/r1200gs-vs-hp4-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/r1200gs-vs-hp4-628.jpg <![CDATA[Pagani Zonda Revolucion unveiled packing 800 hp]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/pagani-zonda-revolucion-unveiled-packing-800-hp/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/pagani-zonda-revolucion-unveiled-packing-800-hp/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/pagani-zonda-revolucion-unveiled-packing-800-hp/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Pagani Zonda Revolucion

Pagani has released the next iteration of its Zonda: the Revolucion. This new machine boasts a carbon-titanium monocoque chassis, slimming the machine's curb weight to a feathery 1,151 kilograms (2,358 pounds). Engineers managed to pull an astonishing 800 horsepower from the craft's 6.0-litre V12, and torque now resides at 538 pound-feet. Gear shifts come courtesy of a six-speed sequential transmission, and Pagani says the box is capable of swapping cogs in as little as 20 milliseconds. A 12-step traction control system helps keep the whole mix on the road, shiny side up.

Other clever tricks include a drag reduction system, which adjusts the rear wing between two downforce settings. The driver can choose which setting is appropriate for the conditions at any time, though an auto mode can do most of the thinking for you. Carbon ceramic brake discs pressed by Brembo calipers handle the stopping duties. If you want one, you can expect to shovel out 2.2 million euros for the title - that's around CAD$2.97 million at current conversion rates. Hit the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Pagani Zonda Revolucion unveiled packing 800 hp

Pagani Zonda Revolucion unveiled packing 800 hp originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> paganipagani zondapagani zonda revolucion Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20598610/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/04/pagani-zonda-revolucion-unveiled-packing-800-hp/20598610/article-detail.xml 20598610 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/zonda-revolucion-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/zonda-revolucion-628.jpg <![CDATA[Stunt driving fail lands car in lake after dangerous crash]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/drifting-fail-lands-car-in-lake-after-driver-rolls-off-road/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/drifting-fail-lands-car-in-lake-after-driver-rolls-off-road/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/drifting-fail-lands-car-in-lake-after-driver-rolls-off-road/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Stunt driving along dirt roads like a professional rally driver is much easier said than done, as these two amateur hoonigans quickly found out in the crash video below. Watch as the two joyriding fools film the rollover destruction of what looks like a Peugeot hatchback when they suddenly launch their car into a nearby lake and end up going for an unexpected swim.

The lucky driver and passenger were fortunate enough to walk away from the dangerous and potentially deadly accident, as this crash could have ended much worse for everyone involved. Miraculously, the car managed to roll itself right side up in the water and the stunned french-speaking cameraman acts like it was an enjoyable amusement park ride or something. After assessing the full scope of the situation, he then starts yelling "Pourquoi?!" (which translates to "Why?!") at his pal seen climbing out of the flooded wreckage.

Click here to watch this wet and wild adventure for yourself and remember to keep stunt driving off public roads and leave it to the pros.

Gallery: Top 25 Strangest Crashes

Continue reading Stunt driving fail lands car in lake after dangerous crash

Stunt driving fail lands car in lake after dangerous crash originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> crashcrash videocrash videoscrashingcrazy crashdrift faildriftingfaillakelake crashwater crash Mon, 03 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20597145/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/03/drifting-fail-lands-car-in-lake-after-driver-rolls-off-road/20597145/article-detail.xml 20597145 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/lake-crash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/lake-crash.jpg <![CDATA[Italian government to lean on Fiat's Marchionne to commit to country]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/italian-government-to-lean-on-fiats-marchionne-to-commit-to-cou/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/italian-government-to-lean-on-fiats-marchionne-to-commit-to-cou/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/italian-government-to-lean-on-fiats-marchionne-to-commit-to-cou/#comments Filed under: , , ,



With the recent chatter that Fiat is looking to move its global headquarters to the US following a complete merger with Chrysler, the Italian government is voicing its opinion on the matter. Facing the potential job loss from the automaker leaving the country, Italy's industry minister is meeting with Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne in what will likely be a plea to keep the company based in Turin rather than moving to Auburn Hills, MI - if indeed it is able to acquire the additional 41.5 per cent of Chrysler currently owned by the United Auto Workers.

According to Bloomberg, Fiat is Italy's biggest private employer and unemployment is already nearing a 20-year high. The non-car side of Fiat, Fiat Industrial, is already planning a move to the UK, so it goes without saying that Fiat moving would be a pretty big blow for the Italian economy. In the article, Fiat says that the headquarters issue is "not on its agenda now," but that statement is far from a denial.

Continue reading Italian government to lean on Fiat's Marchionne to commit to country

Italian government to lean on Fiat's Marchionne to commit to country originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 01 Jun 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerfiatfiat chrysler mergerfiat headquartersfiat hqitalysergio marchionne Sat, 01 Jun 2013 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20584675/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/01/italian-government-to-lean-on-fiats-marchionne-to-commit-to-cou/20584675/article-detail.xml 20584675 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sergio-marchionne-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sergio-marchionne-628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Schumacher's fast lap of Nurburgring in Mercedes F1 car]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



In advance of the Nürburgring 24-hour race last weekend, Mercedes-Benz put on a demonstration that had Michael Schumacher playing catch-up in a Formula One car against four examples of AMG metal. There were four cars sent off in staggered starts before Schumacher: an A45 AMG, E63 AMG 4Matic, SLS AMG Black Series, and an SLS AMG GT3 car. "Mr. Formula One," as the German television commentators call him, left three minutes after the SLS AMG GT3.

There are two videos of Schumacher's lap, the first is on-board footage - and even though there were several GoPros on the car the POV never cuts away from the front wing. You can hear the throttle and tell he's not pushing it, you can also tell how bumpy the track is. The second video is footage from the German Sport1 channel - with commentary in German - that shows all the cars taking off and takes the aerial view of proceedings. He looks to be going a lot faster in that one. You can compare and contrast yourself with the videos below.

Oh, and it's worth noting that, even with the likely restricted car, and the made-for-TV environment, Schumi turned in a quick lap. The nose camera shows the F1 car start to slow down on the back straight, near the start/finish line, right around the modern-length track record time of six minutes and eleven seconds.

Continue reading Watch Schumacher's fast lap of Nurburgring in Mercedes F1 car

Watch Schumacher's fast lap of Nurburgring in Mercedes F1 car originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 31 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mercedes-amg petronasmercedes-benzmichael schumachernurburgringvideo Fri, 31 May 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20594448/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/31/watch-schumachers-lap-of-nurburgring-in-mercedes-f1-car/20594448/article-detail.xml 20594448 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/schumacher-ring-f1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/schumacher-ring-f1.jpg <![CDATA[See and hear the 24 Hours of Nürburgring as if you were there]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/see-and-hear-the-24-hours-of-nurburgring-as-if-you-were-there/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/see-and-hear-the-24-hours-of-nurburgring-as-if-you-were-there/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/see-and-hear-the-24-hours-of-nurburgring-as-if-you-were-there/#comments Filed under: , , ,

24 Hours of Nurburgring 2013 - video screencap

Endurance races attract a special kind of motorsports fan, and as far as we can tell, they're the same all over the world: to enjoy 12 or 24 hours of racing they'll camp out for four or five days, they have no problem parking expensive cars in the mud - or sleeping in it, they come prepared to endure anything, sometimes the party doesn't stop even after the course has closed on Sunday evening and you've never seen so much grilling in your life.

TouriClips, the same outfit that brought us video of the Edo Competition ZXX and Maserati MC12 Corsa at the Nürburgring, was at last weekend's Nürburgring 24-Hour race and put together a video overview of the weekend. It's long, but it covers everything from the dry racing in the day to wet racing at night, to the fans and parking areas, the pits, the grandstands, the ambulance trying to stay out of the way of racers and the Jeep Cherokee towing away a broken car. It's also got the following day of action and the podium that the winning cars get put on.

So settle in and enjoy the video below.

Continue reading See and hear the 24 Hours of Nürburgring as if you were there

See and hear the 24 Hours of Nürburgring as if you were there originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 30 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> endurance racingNurburgringnurburgring 24touriclipsvideo Thu, 30 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20589346/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/30/see-and-hear-the-24-hours-of-nurburgring-as-if-you-were-there/20589346/article-detail.xml 20589346 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nurburgring-24-video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nurburgring-24-video.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Macan to debut at LA Auto Show]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/porsche-macan-to-debut-at-la-auto-show/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/porsche-macan-to-debut-at-la-auto-show/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/porsche-macan-to-debut-at-la-auto-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Porsche Macan

Auto Express reports Porsche will unveil the upcoming Macan SUV at this year's LA Auto Show. Citing an unnamed "insider," AE says that the five-door will bow with engines, suspension and interior architecture that will help differentiate it from its Audi Q5 chassis mate. Big shocker there. We've been hearing the same line since we first caught word of the Macan back when it was still rolling around under the Cajun name. The report does shed some light on the model's pricing, however. That same insider says the Porsche Macan will carry a price tag of 36,000 pounds (CAD$56,345).

What does that mean for North American buyers? Do some quick math based on current conversion rates, and average UK and US prices, and we come up with a sticker of roughly CAD$50,000 here in the land of the free. That fits in line with the rest of the company's stable, with the larger Cayenne starting at CAD$57,500.

Still, we'll wait for more concrete word before jumping behind the AE report wholeheartedly. The 2013 LA Auto Show gets going in late November.

Continue reading Porsche Macan to debut at LA Auto Show

Porsche Macan to debut at LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 29 May 2013 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 la auto showla auto showmacan priceporscheporsche macanporsche macan msrp Wed, 29 May 2013 18:59:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20588038/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/29/porsche-macan-to-debut-at-la-auto-show/20588038/article-detail.xml 20588038 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/porsche-macan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/porsche-macan-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW X5 doesn't upset the formula]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/embargo-wed-may-29-6pm-est-2014-bmw-x5-doesnt-upset-the-form/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/embargo-wed-may-29-6pm-est-2014-bmw-x5-doesnt-upset-the-form/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/embargo-wed-may-29-6pm-est-2014-bmw-x5-doesnt-upset-the-form/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2014 BMW X5

BMW has unveiled the 2014 X5, and fans of the company's SUV will find plenty familiar in the machine. The biggest change to the recipe comes in the form of the X5 sDrive35i, which is the first rear-wheel drive version of the high-riding five-door to date. Buyers will, of course, continue to be able to opt for all-wheel drive, and both models will get their thrust from a 3.0-litre, turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. That powerplant makes 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW says the combination is good enough to get the SUV to 60 miles per hour (96 km/h) in around 6.2 seconds.

Those who require more thrust can step up to the more potent X5 xDrive50i with its twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine. Drivers get to enjoy an extra 45 hp over the previous model, with final output up to 445 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic of its own, the engine can hustle the big X5 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.9 seconds.

The 2014 BMW xDrive35d continues to offer diesel power, though output has dropped 10 horsepower to 255 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. Even so, BMW says the X5 diesel will be just as quick or quicker than the 2013 model. You can check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 BMW X5 doesn't upset the formula

2014 BMW X5 doesn't upset the formula originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 29 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 bmw x52014 x5bmwbmw x5 Wed, 29 May 2013 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20587996/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/29/embargo-wed-may-29-6pm-est-2014-bmw-x5-doesnt-upset-the-form/20587996/article-detail.xml 20587996 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-x5-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-x5-628.jpg <![CDATA[Rider Matsushita killed during Isle of Man TT qualifying]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/rider-matsushita-is-isle-of-mans-240th-fatality/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/rider-matsushita-is-isle-of-mans-240th-fatality/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/rider-matsushita-is-isle-of-mans-240th-fatality/#comments Filed under: , , ,



The 2013 Isle of Man TT has been darkened by the death of Japanese motorcycle rider Yoshinari Matsushita. During qualifying, 43-year-old Matsushita crashed on Ballacrye corner and passed away due to his injuries. In 2011, Bill Currie and Kevin Morgan died after their sidecar machine crashed in the same location. An investigation into Matsushita's accident has been launched.

Auto Cycle Union Events, the organizing body behind the Isle of Man TT, said in a statement that it passes its deepest sympathy to Matsushita's family and friends. Autos.ca quoted Gary Thompson, Clerk of the Course for ACU as saying, "Yoshi was a really popular competitor who had a large number of friends in the TT Races paddock. He was a genuine and friendly character who always had time for everyone. He will be sorely missed."

Matsushita is the 240th fatality attributed competing in the Isle of Man TT since the race began in 1911. A total of 21 people have died in competition since 2000.

Continue reading Rider Matsushita killed during Isle of Man TT qualifying

Rider Matsushita killed during Isle of Man TT qualifying originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 28 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> auto cycle union eventsisle of manisle of man ttisle of man tt fatalitymotorcyclemotorcycle accidentmotorsportsracingyoshinari matsushita Tue, 28 May 2013 17:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20585900/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/28/rider-matsushita-is-isle-of-mans-240th-fatality/20585900/article-detail.xml 20585900 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/yoshinari-matsushita-rider_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/yoshinari-matsushita-rider.jpg <![CDATA[Race Recap: 2013 Monaco Grand Prix brings NASCAR to the principality [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Lots of contact, debris cautions, trips into the wall, full-course yellows and a red flag - these are the kinds of racing terms you unbox when you want to have a conversation about NASCAR... or the Formula One grand prix of Monaco. In this case we're not talking about the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte, we're talking about 78 laps in the South of France that even featured a fallen camera cable just like that stock-car race.

This year, Mercedes-AMG Petronas drivers treated their chassis' like busses instead of F1 cars, Romain Grosjean treated his Lotus like a battering ram, Sergio Perez kept sticking his McLaren's nose in places and eventually got it smacked, and maybe the size of the drivers' mirrors should be changed instead of the tires as there were almost as many firsts as there were crashes. Plenty of F1 fans wish Monaco were removed from the calendar, yet even though it doesn't specialize in traditional thrills, that doesn't mean nothing happens during the parade through - and into - the barriers.

Continue reading Race Recap: 2013 Monaco Grand Prix brings NASCAR to the principality [w/video]

Race Recap: 2013 Monaco Grand Prix brings NASCAR to the principality [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 28 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 monaco grand prixf1felipe massafernando alonsoferrariinfiniti red bull racingkimi raikkonenlewis hamiltonlotusmercedes-amgmonaco grand prixnico rosbergsebastian vettel Tue, 28 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20585441/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/28/race-recap-for-the-2013-monaco-grand-prix-nascar-comes-to-the-p/20585441/article-detail.xml 20585441 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mgp1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mgp1.jpg <![CDATA[Lewis Hamilton jet ski prank causes serious camera carnage]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Lewis Hamilton

That zany Lewis Hamilton is up to some hijinks once again, recently hamming it up on a pair of jet skis for a television film crew in Monaco with fellow Formula One driver Nico Rosberg. The F1 drivers were supposed to stay far enough away from the camera operators on a stationary boat, but Hamilton came in close, executed a sharp turn and sprayed the whole crowd with water. Early reports said the stunt did US$150,000 in damage to cameras and mobile phones, but Mercedes-Benz said that wasn't the case.

A source with the company said one freelancer didn't adequately protect his gear. The race team is helping to repair or replace the damaged equipment as a gesture of good faith.

Click through to watch a video showing Mercedes-Benz F1 racer.

Gallery: 2013 Spanish Formula One Grand Prix






Continue reading Lewis Hamilton jet ski prank causes serious camera carnage

Lewis Hamilton jet ski prank causes serious camera carnage originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 28 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> f1formula onejet skilewis hamiltonlewis hamilton jet skimercedesnico rosberg Tue, 28 May 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20584754/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/28/lewis-hamilton-jet-ski-prank-causes-camera-damages/20584754/article-detail.xml 20584754 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dv1484691_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dv1484691.jpg <![CDATA[Daimler consulting with Ford about 3-cylinder engines, join BMW in small engine game]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/26/daimler-consulting-with-ford-about-3-cylinder-engines/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/26/daimler-consulting-with-ford-about-3-cylinder-engines/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/26/daimler-consulting-with-ford-about-3-cylinder-engines/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Ford 1.0L EcoBoost Engine

Soon enough, Ford will offer its 1.0-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder engine under the hood of the Fiesta here in Canada, building on the success of the small powerplant overseas. In fact, this success has caused other automakers to take notice, and according to Automotive News Europe, Daimler is now talking to Ford about this engine for use in its own products.

In other markets, Ford offers the 1.0-litre mill under the hood of the Focus as well as the B-Max MPV. For this new collaboration, Daimler would use the turbo-three in the next-generation Smart ForTwo, as well as the Renault Twingo, which the German automaker will be collaborating on as part of its alliance with Renault-Nissan. Speaking to AN, a Mercedes-Benz engineer called the 1.0-litre mill an "interesting and impressive engine."

In exchange for details about the EcoBoost inline-three, Daimler will supply Ford with information regarding its Euro6 stratified lean-burn gasoline engine, which is found in the new E-Class sedan.

This isn't the first time Ford has collaborated with Daimler and Renault-Nissan about powertrain development. Earlier this year, the companies said they would all work together on hydrogen fuel cell development, with a plan to introduce a hydrogen powertrain by 2017.

Click through to watch a video showing BMW's 3-cylinder engine technology.

Gallery: BMW 1 Series 3-cylinder: First Drive






Continue reading Daimler consulting with Ford about 3-cylinder engines, join BMW in small engine game

Daimler consulting with Ford about 3-cylinder engines, join BMW in small engine game originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 26 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1.0l ecoboost enginedaimlerecoboostenginefordnissanrenaultsmart Sun, 26 May 2013 20:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20583668/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/26/daimler-consulting-with-ford-about-3-cylinder-engines/20583668/article-detail.xml 20583668 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/19-2012-ford-focus-1l-ecoboost-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/19-2012-ford-focus-1l-ecoboost-qs.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé bows at Villa d'Este]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe - front three-quarter view

The first collaboration between BMW and Pininfarina is this blunt-force two-door called the BMW Pininfarini Gran Lusso Coupe revealed at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. Said to be the "interpretation of a luxurious BMW Coupé as seen through the eyes of Pininfarina," once you get past all of the design-speak, you can focus on the full-bodied and keen-edged missile sitting on 21-inch wheels.

The long wheelbase makes for short overhangs. Up front, BMW's design language gets scraped across a whetstone, everything getting sharper, including the usually round cat's eye headlights that have gone dihedral. Under the hood is a V12, behind the twin-kidney grille in matte-sheen aluminium and high-gloss black. The same aluminum treatment also backs the taillights, the lenses designed to let air flow through them.

Inside is room for four, a cockpit canted toward the driver, Foglizzo leather in black and Tobacco Brown, 48,000-year-old kauri wood from New Zealand, deep pile carpet on the floors, a patterned virgin wool headliner and an "oblong aperture in the roof liner" set off by white LEDs.

There are words as flowery as the materials in the press release below and a gallery of high-res images to make sense of it all above. What do you think, should BMW consider a production version of this concept as a successor to the long-dormant 8 Series? Have your say in Comments.

Gallery: BMW i8 Spyder






Continue reading BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé bows at Villa d'Este

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé bows at Villa d'Este originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 24 May 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw 8 seriesbmw conceptbmw gran lusso coupebmw pininfarina gran lusso coupeconcorso deleganza villa destepininfarinavilla deste Fri, 24 May 2013 12:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20583160/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/20583160/article-detail.xml 20583160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Concept 90 Motorcycle debuts at Villa d'Este]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-concept-90-motorcycle-debuts-at-villa-deste/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-concept-90-motorcycle-debuts-at-villa-deste/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-concept-90-motorcycle-debuts-at-villa-deste/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

BMW Concept 90 Motorcycle - front three-quarter view

BMW R 90 S in Daytona Orange - front three-quarter viewThe Concept 90 is one of two new vehicles BMW is showing off at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este on the tony shores of Lake Como in Italy. This year is the 90th anniversary of BMW Motorrad and the 40th anniversary of the R 90 S (inset) - the first production motorcycle to come with a front fairing - and BMW has worked with custom bike builder Roland Sands Design to craft a homage to the Daytona Orange boxer from the Seventies.

While following the line of its forebearer, obviously the Concept 90 has been sexed and sleeked up. The bodywork is of hand-worked aluminum, the giant halogen lamp of the 1975 model (which is when Daytona Orange was introduced) has gone LED, and the front engine cover, valve covers, exhaust and wheels have been made with a contrast-cut milling process.

For a finer description of the Concept 90 check out the press release below, or skip the words and go straight to the high-res images above.

Gallery: 2013 BMW Motorrad lineup






Continue reading BMW Concept 90 Motorcycle debuts at Villa d'Este

BMW Concept 90 Motorcycle debuts at Villa d'Este originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 24 May 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw concept 90bmw motorcyclesbmw motorradbmw r 90 smotorcycleroland sands designvilla deste Fri, 24 May 2013 12:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20583005/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/bmw-concept-90-motorcycle-debuts-at-villa-deste/20583005/article-detail.xml 20583005 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-concept-90_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-concept-90.jpg <![CDATA[Watch a rocket-powered bicycle set a new land speed record]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/watch-a-rocket-powered-bicycle-set-a-new-land-speed-record/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/watch-a-rocket-powered-bicycle-set-a-new-land-speed-record/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/watch-a-rocket-powered-bicycle-set-a-new-land-speed-record/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

rocket-powered bicycle

Frenchman François Gissy has laid claim to a new land speed record using a rocket-powered bicycle. Yes, you read that right. A rocket-powered bicycle. Gissy and his bicycle managed to hit a mind-boggling 263 kilometres per hour (163 mph) over a vacant stretch of highway in Munchhouse, France over the weekend.

The rocket was built by Swiss company Exotic Thermo Engineering, and it provides its thrust using liquid hydrogen peroxide - much more concentrated than what you'd find at your local drug store, so don't go trying this at home tonight - that is broken down to generate steam at 650 degrees Fahrenheit.

Watch Gissy's record speed run in the trio of videos below, and take special note of the speeding cars and motorcycles he lines up against in two of them.

Gallery: Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse sets World Record as Fastest Production Open-Top Car




Continue reading Watch a rocket-powered bicycle set a new land speed record

Watch a rocket-powered bicycle set a new land speed record originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bicycleFrançois Gissyland speed recordrocketrocket-powered Fri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20582770/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/watch-a-rocket-powered-bicycle-set-a-new-land-speed-record/20582770/article-detail.xml 20582770 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/rocket-bicycle_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/rocket-bicycle.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Carrera Cup driver Connor de Phillippi's first lap of the Nürburgring]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Connor de Phillippi drives the 'Ring in his Porsche 911 racecar - video screencap

American race driver Connor de Phillippi was recently added to the roster of Porsche Juniors, the arm of Porsche's factory racing program that develops new talent. The 20-year-old is contesting the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland series with FÖRCH Racing by Lukas Motorsport, and last weekend, he raced the series round at the Nürburgring. Starting 15th on the grid, de Phillippi would cross the line in ninth out of 32 finishers.

Courtesy of his in-car camera, you can watch his entire first lap in the video below - there's no music added, just engine whine during nine minutes of crests, turns, bumpy straights and that wicked Carousel. Enjoy.

Gallery: Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer

Continue reading Watch Carrera Cup driver Connor de Phillippi's first lap of the Nürburgring

Watch Carrera Cup driver Connor de Phillippi's first lap of the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 23 May 2013 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> carrera cupconnor de phillippimotorsportsnürburgringporscheporsche 911porsche carrera cupporsche juniorsvideo Thu, 23 May 2013 12:46:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20581594/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/watch-carrera-cup-driver-connor-de-phillippis-first-lap-of-the/20581594/article-detail.xml 20581594 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/connor-di-phillippi-gt3-ring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/connor-di-phillippi-gt3-ring.jpg <![CDATA[Mini Paceman modified by Roberto Cavalli for annual Life Ball charity]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mini-paceman-roberto-cavalli-life-ball-charity/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mini-paceman-roberto-cavalli-life-ball-charity/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mini-paceman-roberto-cavalli-life-ball-charity/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



This year's award for Life Ball Mini designer goes to Roberto Cavalli. The Life Ball is a charity event held in Vienna, Austria every year that raises money to fight the spread of HIV and AIDS. Since 2001, the year of its reintroduction, Mini has been involved with the ball, auctioning a car that has been made over by a world-famous designer. This year Cavalli gets the nod and a Paceman for a canvas.

The iridescent brown/black paint is the eye-catcher in the sketch above (click to enlarge), but don't forget to note Cavalli's logo on the roof. We're not sure what other flourishes he has in mind for the car, but those in attendance will find out on May 24 when it's unveiled at the Cavalli store opening in Vienna. The press release below has more details, then check out the video launch of the Mini Paceman.

Gallery: 2014 Mini John Cooper Works Paceman: Detroit 2013




Continue reading Mini Paceman modified by Roberto Cavalli for annual Life Ball charity

Mini Paceman modified by Roberto Cavalli for annual Life Ball charity originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 22 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> charitylife ballminimini pacemanroberto cavalli Wed, 22 May 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20577567/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/mini-paceman-roberto-cavalli-life-ball-charity/20577567/article-detail.xml 20577567 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mini-roberto-cavalli-life-ball_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mini-roberto-cavalli-life-ball.jpg -1 2