VG isn't the official name just yet, but an internal name to be replaced when the car is officially unveiled at the next Detroit Auto Show. It's expected to compete in the "near luxury" segment and will sport a 2.4 liter direct injection four cylinder and a 3.8 liter V6. We're betting it won't be quite as wild as these images portray, but almost anything will be better than the Amanti.

KIA MOTORS RELEASES FIRST IMAGES OF ALL-NEW MODEL

Kia Motors has today released the first images of its new premium saloon due to go on sale in Korea at the end of the year.

The new model, currently known by its code name VG, was shown in concept form at the Seoul Motor Show earlier this year and is set to replace the existing Opirus model in Korean, North American and European markets.

"VG clearly demonstrates the next stage in Kia's design evolution and showcases our new design principle of 'sophistication by simplicity'. The exterior is a seamless blend of powerful front, sleek profile and sophisticated but simple rear lines to create an elegant and luxurious appearance," commented Hyoung Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President and COO of International Business Division at Kia Motors Corporation.

There are no current plans to bring this model to the UK market.

The Detroit Auto Show typically has three press days, starting on Sunday. The big debuts occur on Sunday and Monday morning, with other automakers taking time in the afternoon. Tuesdays were reserved for smaller companies, parts manufacturers and anyone else who was not a major automaker. While compressing the work into just Monday and Tuesday makes sense given automakers have backed out, it is yet another depressing sign of the Carpocalypse.

The press release from the show below says the idea came from input from exhibitors and key media. We guess we aren't "key media" since, honestly, we like having the extra day to troll around the floor in our Mobile Command Center to try and pick up unique stories and fail at picking up booth professionals.

North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) Announces Press Preview to Move to Monday Beginning in 2010

DETROIT, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ — After showcasing more than 50 new product reveals to approximately 5,500 international journalists, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), with input from exhibitors and key media, has announced that beginning in 2010, press conferences will be held beginning on Monday, January 11. Going forward, this move will more efficiently accommodate the 25-30 manufacturer press conferences filled with reveals and news that are held during the NAIAS Press Preview.

"The NAIAS is the premiere auto showcase for the US market," said Dr. Kunibert Schmidt of the German Associations of Automotive Industry (VDA - Verband der Automobilindustrie). "The show's recent decision to refine the press conference schedule is the perfect example of finding efficiencies in our industry as well as strengthening the professionalism the NAIAS exhibits to the world."

Press Preview Days are traditionally held at the NAIAS the week prior to the show opening to the general public. Industry Preview Days will remain on Wednesday and Thursday as opportunities for suppliers to visit the show. 2010 NAIAS event dates are January 11-12, Press Preview; January 13-14, Industry Preview; January 15, Charity Preview; January 16-24, Public Show.

"There is no better voice than that of the customer," said NAIAS Executive Director, Rod Alberts. "The volume of media we serve internationally and the exhibitors who rely on them make this show one of the world's top draws. We continue to listen to our audiences and by responding to their needs, NAIAS maintains its standing as one of the top international auto shows in the world."

[Source: NAIAS]

Points to note about this bit:

• The Lotus Elise looks small enough to fit in Conan's pocket, thus reminding us why we would trade our eye teeth for one.
• Smart cars make terrible party favors, everyone gets saddled with unexpected tax bills
• Conan made one error in reporting, the Lotus Hyster isn't planned for production till the 2010 calendar year
• We've met Richard Duff before, one of the designers for the Buick LaCrosse, and despite his portrayal, he's not nearly as nerdy as he seems. Well, not quite as nerdy. Augbert.
• Slow motion video playback can make anything funny

Seeing as how sales figures and profits of most major automakers took a nose dive in the second half of 2008, we expected the cost savings to be extreme at this year's Detroit Auto Show. Normally the easiest way to cut cost at an auto show, or anywhere for that matter, is to maintain product rollouts and reduce headcount — we expected booth professionals to be at an all time low this year. In fact, the opposite was true, the total number of legitimate new products was down and the number of extremely qualified booth professionals was way up. It's almost as if every automaker wanted booth pro's in our every shot. Seriously, at times it was a real hassle to get clear shots of the cars.

All joking aside though, this years crop of booth workers were really up on their specs and details, they were practically fashionable, walking spreadsheets. It was amazing. Anyway, as is our custom, since we couldn't use the pictures with booth professionals in them for anything else, we've compiled them for you to peruse, should you be interested in such a thing.

Photo Credit: Alex Conley and Wes Tucker

We strap a HD camera to our Mobile Command Center and rage through the Detroit Auto Show.

The Japanese cowered near their Prii. The Germans attempted a peace offering of beer and currywurst. The Chinese tried a bribe of leaded pens. But even after all of these efforts, the Jalopnik Mobile Command Center could not be stopped. Follow us as we generally terrorize what's left of the Detroit Auto Show. We even almost mowed over Senator Corker.

Video Cred: Alex C. Conley

We thought we were sooo sly, but you guys proved how annoyingly quick you can be. Waldo was hiding in the last image of The Auto Insider's hilariously headlined Brilliance Auto "Seeking Development With Mutual Benefit and Win-Win". Next time we do this we'll have to really work hard on our Waldo camouflaging skills. In any case, considering we've got plenty of goods to go around, we're going to hand out prizes to the first three valid submissions. All right now, let's tell em what they've won!

WilliamG came dangerously close to disqualifying himself by double posting, but since he didn't do it maliciously (or with the proper key words the first time) we have to hand over the grand prize to him. In only a half hour he managed to find Waldo and as a reward we're giving him a brand new, still in the packaging Geely tea set from the 2008 Detroit Auto Show.

The next valid entry came a few moments after WilliamG's submission, from camb6ell, who will receive a reward as a result of his sleuthing a commemorative Saab 92 scale model in a decorative casing. This one wasn't from the auto show specifically, but we've been waiting for a chance to give it away.

Finally, our third place winner is nairdasti and for his hunt will be rewarded with a wind up or car-chargeable LED flashlight and wearable USB thumb drive.

Our winners should shoot me an email at ben@jalopnik.com with their mailing address so we can get all those fabulous prizes out right away. Congrats to the winners, phooey to all of you who are way faster than we thought you'd be, and next time we'll make it way, way harder.

In honor of the Chinese triumphantly storming the main floor of the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, we've decided the grand prize will be one we've kept squirreled away for a special occasion for a full year now. It's the complete, formal tea set given to us last year by China's Geely, who, amusingly, was absent from this years festivities.

So here's the deal, this year, in one of the many images we uploaded to a gallery, we slyly inserted everyone's favorite globe-trotting, stripe wearing cartoon character, Waldo. He's lurking in a post, somewhere in a post on our Detroit Auto Show tag page, between our official start of coverage at 8:00 AM last Saturday and today at noon. Be the first to find Waldo and you get the prize. That should keep everybody busy for hours, but when you do manage to find him, be very careful with the submission procedure, because if you make one minor mistake, your efforts will be for naught.

Here's the rules:

In order to claim your fabulous prize you must first post a comment in the comments section reading "I've Found Waldo," nothing more, nothing less. DO NOT post a link to the image in the comments or everybody loses. Within five minutes of posting the "I've Found Waldo" comment, you must send an email to ben@jalopnik.com with the subject line "Where's Waldo Entry." Then, in the body of the email, include the URL of the image where Waldo makes his appearance, and very importantly, a link to your comment saying "I've Found Waldo." To do this, click on the time stamp next to your commenter ID then copy and past the URL into the email. This email must be sent within five minutes of the comment being posted, otherwise the entry will be disqualified. Anyone posting "I've found Waldo" in comments more than once will be disqualified — so no gaming of the system.

As always, standard contest rules apply and submissions will be accepted until a winner has been announced or noon on Monday, January 19, 2008 — whichever comes first. Below is a list of posts where Waldo may be hiding, however nothing says he has to be hiding behind any of these posts. Good luck, and happy hunting.

• Volkswagen Bluesport Concept 42 MPG Roadster Officially Revealed
• Audi Sportback Concept Previews 2009 Audi A5 Sportback
• Chrysler Sign Almost Decapitates Detroit Auto Show-goer
• Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S: We Get Weak In The Knees For 433 HP
• Subaru Legacy Concept: Subie Previews New Legacy Look
• 2010 Ford Taurus: A Flagship Returns
• Chrysler 200C EV Concept: Shockingly Attractive Mid-Size
• Carroll Shelby Introduces 2010 Shelby GT500 Coupe Convertible At Detroit
• Lamborghini Holds Euro-Trash Fashion Show
• 2009 Michelin Design Searches For Next Iconic American Vehicle
• Fisker Karma S Sunset: World's First Hybrid Convertible
• Jalopnik Exclusive: Interview With VW's Max The Beetle
• First Photo Of 2010 Toyota Prius, 2010 Honda Insight Together
• Caption This: Magician Bill Malone Deals Ford America Prez Mark Fields From The Bottom Of The Deck
• Unrest In Detroit Spurs Auto Show Protest
• 2010 Lincoln MKT: Crossover For The Super-Segmented Masses
• How To Load A Concept Car Onto An Auto Show Turntable
• BAT 11dk: First Private Car Displayed On Detroit Auto Show Main Floor... Ever
• Brilliance Auto "Seeking Development With Mutual Benefit and Win-Win"
• GM Sucks Up To Obama. Hard.
• Revenge GTM-R Super Car: Another 505 HP Boutique Supercar
• Jalopnik GEM-Powered Detroit Auto Show Mobile Command Center
• 2010 Chevy Equinox: The Tall Malibu Wagon Debuts
• BYD E6: 250 Miles Per Charge Electric Car
• 2010 Toyota Prius: Live, In The Vanilla Flesh!
• 2010 Toyota Prius: Design Dissected
• BYD F3DM: The Chinese Volt
• 2010 Toyota Prius: Bigger Size Meets Bigger Fuel Economy - 50 MPG!
• 2010 Lincoln MKS: Entry-Level Luxe Sedan Gets EcoBoost Engine
• Lincoln C Concept: European Size, American Luxury
• 2010 Toyota Camry: Detroit Reveal Makes Us Crave Vanilla Ice Cream
• Lincoln C Concept: A Smaller Car For A Compact Future
• Toyota FT-EV Concept: Roller Skate-Sized Electric Sneaks Onto Detroit Show Floor
• 2010 Toyota Prius: Bigger, Longer And With Higher Fuel Economy
• Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S: We Get Weak In The Knees For 433 HP
• 2010 Cadillac SRX: When Luxury Crossover Meets Midsize SUV
• Cadillac Converj Spotted Cruising Cobo, Posing With Ford Fusion Hybrid
• 2010 Lincoln MKT: Lincoln Gets A Big-Boy Crossover
• 2010 Jaguar XKR Revealed With 510 HP
• Volvo S60 Concept Revealed Live
• 2010 Jaguar XFR Launched Amid Dry Ice, Lasers
• Subaru Legacy Concept: Fully Revealed With Details
• 2009 New MINI Cooper Convertible Takes Top Off At Detroit Auto Show
• Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid: Quick Drive
• Volkswagen Uses Breakdancers, Child Labor To Show Off New Car
• Audi Sportback Concept Previews 2009 Audi A5 Sportback
• Audi R8 5.2 FSI Makes Live Detroit Debut
• Kia Soul'Ster Concept: A Ride For The Cali Kids
• Jeep Patriot EV Shoots Off In Detroit
• More Audi Sportback Concept Shots Leak, Reveal Interior Hotness
• 2010 Buick LaCrosse: Crushing Brand Perceptions
• Volkswagen Bluesport Concept 42 MPG Roadster Officially Revealed
• Dodge Circuit EV Officially Revealed In Detroit
• Chrysler 200C EV Concept: Shockingly Attractive Mid-Size
• Carroll Shelby Introduces 2010 Shelby GT500 Coupe, Convertible At Detroit
• 2010 Ford Taurus: A Flagship Returns
• Ford Unveils Plan For Four Electric Cars By 2012
• Lexus HS 250h: A Prius For The Country Club
• Cadillac Converj Concept: A Volt For Cadillac
• 2010 BMW Z4 Slips Onto The Stage
• Subaru Legacy Concept: Subie Previews New Legacy Look
• Dodge Circuit EV First Live Photos
• 2009 Mercedes McLaren SLR Stirling Moss: $1.01 Million McLaren Madness
• VW Bluesport Roadster: The Mid-Engined Diesel Sportscar
• 2010 Ford Taurus: More Hot, Less Bull
• Chrysler ENVI Program Updated With New Models, Big Stickers, Bigger Dreams
• Chrysler uconnect: An Orwellian Nightmare
• 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost: It's Got The Power
• Ford EcoBoost: Have You Driven A Twin-Turbocharged Ford Lately?
• Toyota FT-EV Concept: An Electric Car For The Tiny Masses
• Dodge Circuit EV: Not Quite Too Good To Be True
• Audi Sportback Concept Reveals A Large X6-Like Butt
• 2010 Jaguar XKR: 510 HP Pussycat Kills Even Faster
• Jeep Patriot EV: A Conceptual Electric Missile From Chrysler

Chrysler provided us with an exclusive walk-through of their 2009 200C Concept at the Detroit Auto Show and we were most impressed by the integrated next-gen Uconnect system. Unlike Ford, who merely provided video evidence of their in-car media system (creepy avatar included), Chrysler built a fully functioning Wi-Fi enabled proof-of-concept into the 200C.

Brad Gieske, a designer at Chrysler, provided us with an in-depth look at the system from the user provided "smart phone" that controls all of the cars auxiliary functions; the concave glass surface that replaces a typical centerstack and cluster; to the pull-out tablet style control interface for passengers. While there were a few bugs in the system, mostly from an ultra-sensitive touch surface, the Chrysler team really provided a clear indication for the future of the Uconnect system.

The "smart phone" that acts as the car's key fob looks a whole hell of a lot like an Apple iPhone, but Gieske tells me that the system can be configured to any phone through a simple download service. It controls the typical key fob functions like lock/unlock and panic, but provides much more beyond just that. The phone/fob is capable of locating your car via GPS and an on-screen map; it can also raise/lower the windows, turn the lights on/off, turn on the AC/heat and it can also snap images/video of the vehicle's interior if the car is ever stolen or your horny teen is making a pass on his girlfriend. These are pretty cool features that seem to be possible today, so hopefully we won't have to wait for long.

The Uconnect system itself is designed into the 200C Concept's IP surface and features a concave, black glass surface with a projected image from the backside. The surface itself is controlled via a touch surface that seemed to be a little temperamental on the day that we were given the demonstration, but not enough to distract from the overall usability of the system.

In order to start the car, a large green power button glows on the center stack area of the touch panel, which when touched, illuminates the rest of the display surface. The main control area is designed to simulate a trackball of sorts with different icons set on a rotatable axis, all virtual of course. This control surface allows the manipulation of many of the cars different configurations like the audio, media, navigation and user settings.

A secondary auxiliary tablet-style display is carefully hidden in the passenger-side IP and when removed reveals an Apple Coverflow-like display. This secondary controller is set up for any passenger of the vehicle to listen to music, watch video and it can even serve as a route planner with transferable navigation data being sent to the in-dash Uconnect system.

Steve Holmes, Chrysler Component Design Manager, had this to say about the system:

This is what’s so different about Chrysler, we strived to make this work. It’s to show that we can do this, that the technology is there. It’s easy to show videos (referring to Ford). We really busted our ass to get this system to work. The curved surfaces, we didn’t want to have it be rectangular, we wanted it to fit in uniquely with the surface. We wanted the images to project all the way out so you weren’t looking at a bunch of squares.

And that they did. It worked and it worked well though we thought it was a little humorous when Queen/David Bowie's, Under Pressure, came on during our demonstration. Chrysler, you really were under pressure for this years Detroit Auto Show and while you showed us more vaporware EVs and the exterior of the 200C was nice, it really was the next-gen Uconnect that was the star of your display. We hope to see a version of this concept in the near future.

11.) Reporters Asking Us For Jobs

While working at Jalopnik may seem like a dream job, we're sometimes treated as a curiosity by print journalists who don't understand how the web works. Not this year. The sheer number of people asking, and the flood of resumes into Wert's inbox sort of harshed our buzz.

10.) The Lack Of A Firehouse

If you want to understand the sheer impact the Carpocalypse has had on the world, consider the fact the Firehouse bar is no more. For those unaware, the "Firehouse" was a real firehouse converted by Chrysler each year into a bar where they'd pay for free drinks and food for journalists. It was a fun afterparty. The kind of place you can have Dr. Z pour you a beer or Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Angus McKenzie lecture you on the new media landscape for an hour. The Post's "Hacks n' Flacks" BYOB (Buy Your Own Beer) after-party, while fun, just wasn't quite the same.

9.) Swag And Press Releases

Any journalist worth his or her salt could walk out of an auto show with three or four-hundred USB flash drives and lots of toys. Back in the good ol' days of, you know, last year, automakers would pass out unnecessarily ornate press packs filled with USB drives on keychains and leather-bound press releases. This year they were back to pieces of paper and discs. The nicest USB drive we received was from BYD, which promptly corrupted the files we loaded on it (no joke).

8.) Cheap Floor Space

The lack of certain automakers meant companies like Revenge were no longer relegated to Michigan Hall in Cobo's basement. The reason this is so sad is it makes it seem like DUB cars are on the same level as the new offerings from Chrysler. Well... come to think of it.

7.) Chrysler

Chrysler President Jim Press used part of his press conference to explain why Chrysler would resurrect itself and how great a job the company has done in firing people. Seriously, they laid off like thousands of people. That makes them awesome how? But that's just Jim, the rest of the company was even worse. Like Cubs fans convinced this will be their year, Chrysler's need to convince everyone they have a future with cars like the 200C EV Concept is just depressing. This is especially true when you consider they didn't have the requisite cash to mount their logo without almost killing someone.

6.) GM's Fake Rally

GM built a fake card-carrying rally with employees around their reveal on Sunday morning of the Detroit Auto Show. You know it's bad when you look around and realize they couldn't even get enough employees together to make the rally look impressive.

5.) The Plight Of Male Booth Professionals

Since they had nothing to reveal, Lamborghini merely trotted out their typical team of hot booth professionals to pose in front of their cars. They held a press conference to do this and we, like others, took lots of photos. We felt awful for the male model as the sound of shutters clicking drastically declined when he walked on the platform. Sorry, guy who looks vaguely like a taller Mark Rufallo.

4.) Alcohol Consumption-to-New Product Ratio

There were a number of reveals this year, but not of new product. Most were concept cars of the pie-in-the-sky variety. The absence of new product on the show floor was made up for by automaker booze. Normally, we expect that type of thing in the after-hours, but this year that was cut back in favor of allowing cheaper offerings on the show floor in even greater quantities.

3.) Michigan Hall Basement Smell

Though it gave us a chance to drive the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, the electric test track in the basement smelled awful. Was it the cars? No. Was it the Wayne State Formula SAE team? No. Actually, it was the mulch. The smell was so intolerable indoors, the VW booth above was forced to run their air conditioning to blow the smell out. That caused the air conditioning units to drip water into the basement, onto the track where it ran off into the mulch — thus causing the smell to become worse. By the end of the press preview, the Volkswagen booth was smelling like the inside of an abandoned Westfalia camper.

2.) Tuesday

Tuesday is usually a down day for the show, reserved for non-product press conferences and demonstrations. This year there was so little to report on we ended up in a two-way battle with dozens of auto reporters to get to the Tesla press conference and then again to get to Senator Bob Corker. Seriously, ou'd have thought Elon Musk and Corker were both Bono. Neither needs the added ego boost.

1.) Dead People

On the first night of the show we went out to a restaurant near Cobo to grab some food and do some work. We wandered out around 11 pm and noticed flashing police lights. We have to thank the jerk who said "Don't mind him, he's dead" and made us turn to see the lifeless body lying in the cold Detroit street because we'd have otherwise not noticed. We told the interns he was "sleeping" just to make sure they didn't go home with nightmares. Instead, we did.

Photo Credit: Bill Pugliano / Getty Images News

More Of Our Coverage Of The 2009 Detroit Auto Show!
• Booth Professionals Of The 2009 Detroit Auto Show
• Naked Jalopnik: The Meanest Thing We Did At The Detroit Auto Show
• The Top Ten Photo Galleries Of The 2009 Detroit Auto Show
• The Top Ten Concept Interiors Of The 2009 Detroit Auto Show
• The Top Ten 2009 Detroit Auto Show Cars We Most Want To Drive

The mood at the 2009 Detroit show may have been more subdued than in years past (you know, Carpocalypse and all that), but you'd never know it from the photos. The cars are still impossibly shiny, the booth professionals are still, um, doing whatever it is booth professionals do, and automotive enthusiasts are still looking at new cars on the internet. Discuss your favorite photos in the comments.

10.) Volkswagen Bluesport Concept 42 MPG Roadster Officially Revealed

Chrysler Sign Almost Decapitates Detroit Auto Show-goer

Subaru Legacy Concept: Subie Previews New Legacy Look

4.)Chrysler 200C EV Concept: Shockingly Attractive Mid-Size

2.) Lamborghini Holds Euro-Trash Fashion Show

Senator Corker, Republican of Tennessee, is not exactly popular around the Michigan area for saying controversial things about the American automotive industry. Today was no exception, with Corker saying Chrysler needs to merge or die, which is probably less of a command than a statement of reality.

Corker is famous, or infamous depending on where you are, for leading the charge against the rescue package in the Senate because of his request for a date-certain for when the Unions would be required to take action and drop wages. Eventually, President Bush passed a similar plan but without a date certain.

After speaking with GM executives (Maximum Lutz snuck out a side door when he arrived) and touring the Volt, Corker moved on to Volkswagen. Why VW? Because they're building a gigantic plant there. We asked, under the circumstances, if he'd be better referred to as a Volkswagen Republican. His reply in the video above.

Either way, it was a well-timed event for Corker has he was there on the day with the most reporters and the least to report on. Thus explaining the crazy cluster of journalists around him.

We decided to see how two brands under the same banner would do when battling head to head for hearts and blood alcohol content. With the fully stocked bar at Lincoln only feet away from the bar at Mazda, this was the easy location choice.

The fully stocked bar at Lincoln was pretty swank, and we put back a couple drinks while taking in the view. Unfortunately the looped video of next-gen Sync with the creepy Eva avatar ran incessantly and forced us out. We spent a grand total of maybe 25 minutes at Lincoln before moving off to Mazda.

We arrived at Mazda minutes before the staff cleaned up to close. They happily served us and offered treats. Mmmmm, brownies. Also, giant Sapporos and Asahis. As they cleaned up for the evening, they told us we could stick around, and the fridges were not locked. Home. After a few rounds, we sent for Andy who was still wandering around in the GEM and ordered him to retrieve food and then join us. Eventually the whole crew joined and the free beers dried up, forcing Pete to try and open the wine bottles with a knife.

All in all, it was an easy win for Mazda mainly because nobody was there to bother us and it was a lot more fun to watch Ray obliviously doing an interview with the Beeb across the way at the Volvo booth the entire time.

10.) Fisker Karma S Sunset

Fisker's two-seat, droptop Karma Sunset would be a pretty nice place to spend some time, though the lack of any sweet engine note would make it a pointless back road cruiser.

9.) Kia Soul'ster

The little South Korean Geo Tracker-esque Soul'ster looks great, but get us out of the front seat and into the rear so we can have some fun in the sun....wait, no. Rip the seats out and make it a proper El Camino. Yeah, that's what we meant.

8.) Cadillac Converj

The Volt-powered Cadillac Converj had a nice wrap around interior with plenty of tech, but the reason it's not higher on our list is the lack of any real design ingenuity. They would have done better throwing the CTS interior in and calling it a day. Just sayin'.

7.) VW Bluesport

The partially unexpected little diesel roadster from VW made our list because of its focused driver experience and typical VW quality.

6.) Lincoln C

Lincoln's C Concept featured a creepy avatar based multimedia system, that quite frankly, freaked us out. A lot. It's unfortunate Ford's system wasn't a working one like Chrysler's Uconnect. Chrysler 1. Ford 0.

5.) Audi Sportback

Audi always features nicely designed interiors, but this one made us want to touch, touch, touch. The wood accents were gorgeous as were the white leather surfaces. We'd totally make out with a booth professional in there.

4.) Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss

The SLR Stirling Moss looks to be a killer place to receive a couple of bees to the face while buzzing along on the autobahn. Rhyme for the win!

3.) Chrysler 200C

Chrysler presented a very impressive touch-based multimedia system in their 200C that not only worked, it worked pretty well. Like we said - Chrysler 1, Ford 0.

2.) Volvo S60

The crystal center console of the Volvo looked like something that belongs in a Swarovski catalog and that's not a bad thing. Wrapped leather surfaces and techy controls make the S60 Concept one of the hottest cars at the show.

1.) Jalopnik's GEM-Based Mobile Command Center

GEM graciously provided us with their E2 model and it provided us with hours of endless entertainment a great platform to work live on the show floor. If you've been paying attention, you may have seen our Jalopnik mobile command GEM on The Today Show, Fox 2 Detroit, New York Times, Wired (twice) and even AutoblogGreen as a mystery electric car (duh!).

Ze Das Auto campaign has been a big success, how has this changed things?
It's really saved my life. Ask anyone at Chrysler, it's a tough industry and I'd worked so hard for so long and was thinking about quitting when I got this job.

How was it to work with Bobby Knight?
Here's ze funny thing about that. He had no idea we were taping an advertisement. He just showed up and got angry. It was great. He threw a turkey BLT at a production assistant.

We're going to go quick-fire style: favorite auto show food
Denso's all-meat buffet with the bacon-wrapped shrimp.

Favorite booth babe?
Press girls at BYD

Favorite automaker bar?
The Ford Flex lounge

Favorite English word?
Chattanooga, but it's hard to spell.

Favorite reveal other than a VW
The Lincoln C, it's cute and small like me.

Is Brooke Shields as cute in person?
Ja

And as annoying?
Ja

Will they build the Volkswagen Bluesport?
Jeea.....wait a minute. I see what you're doing. Tricky Americans...

What's with the smell in your booth? We've heard lots of behind-the-scenes kvetching about the stench coming from VW.
Avoiding ze obvious sauerkraut joke, we think ze smell from the downstairs track is coming up to ze booth. We'll have our revenge, though, as we've run our A/C non stop so that ze water floods ze track.

Thanks for the talk, any advice for your troubled friends at the Not-So-Big Three
To quote Friedrich Nietzsche: "Work like you don't need money, Love like you've never been hurt, And dance like no one's watching."

10) VW Bluesport Concept

What’s not to like about a mid-engined European sportscar? The fact that this one will probably return mileage in the mid-30 MPGs in the US EPA test thanks to its diesel engine makes this one even better. Of course, you can still do 0-60 in 6.2 seconds and reach a distinctly non-Green top speed of 140 MPH. It’s cars like this — ones that use simple solutions to achieve more efficient results — that give us faith in the car industry as it attempts to clean up its act.

9) Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S

Imagine a BMW 7-series that looked good, was fun to drive and had a 433 HP Ferrari-sourced V8. That’s the Quattorporte Sport GT S and I don’t think it’s difficult to understand why I’m looking forward to driving one.

8) Myers Motors EV

Remember the Corbin Sparrow? Myers Motors have gotten their hands on it, removed the gas engine and dropped in a whole bunch of batteries. A spokesperson that didn’t seem to understand science explained that it was “more stable than a motorcycle because it has three wheels” and “didn’t need to pass crash tests because it’s registered as a motorcycle.” Since I like things that look silly and things that are dangerous, this could be the perfect vehicle for me. Did we mention that it does 76 MPH and is highway legal?

7) Audi R8 5.2 FSI

The R8 didn’t really need more power or more anything really. The subtlest supercar on sale was virtually perfect. We’re worried that the extra power, weight and complication from the V10 will detract from, rather than add to, the experience, but we’re looking forward to finding out if it does.

6) Subaru Legacy Concept

This is my favorite concept at the show. Why? Because it looks like a car that I want to drive: a smallish sedan with AWD, a manual gearbox and a stonking turbocharged 3.6-liter boxer six; all wrapped up in a package that’s somehow both understated and flashy. Don’t look for this color on a production version, it doesn’t use a clear coat and apparently even a gentle caress is enough to scuff it, Subaru declined my request to do exactly that.

5) Jaguar XFR

We were pretty unimpressed with the Jaguar XF when we drove it back in September. But, this “R” version gets some aggressive body addenda, an electronically controlled rear differential with “drift mode” and, most importantly, a really high-tech 5.0 V8 with 510 HP and most of its 461 Lb-Ft of torque delivered at just 1,500 RPM. We were already pretty happy with the Jag’s engine, but wished it had better suspension control, feedback and more involving steering. We’ll see if they’ve fixed all that when we drive one.

4) 2010 Ford Taurus Ecoboost

I probably won’t get to drive this car right away. Why? Ben’s got a major hard on for it, saying “It’s a bitchin’ full-size family sedan, that’s a hard segment to be bitchin’ in. Plus, it’s got like 330 Lb-Ft of torque at 1,500 RPM and I like torque.”

3) Fisker Karma S

This is a seriously good-looking convertible, probably the best we’ve seen for at least a decade. But that’s not the whole story; the S shares the 2010 Karma’s 403 HP plug-in hybrid powertrain, so it’ll be fast too. We plan to put gaffer tape over the Sunset badges when we eventually drive one in 2012 or 2013.

2) 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

A pickup designed for maximum off-road performance. Actually, “maximum” is good word to use to describe the Raptor. I’m contemplating growing a mullet, investing in a pack of Hanes Wife Beaters and learning to like Miller Lite just so I can do the truck justice.

1) Dodge Circuit EV

The Lotus Europa is a seriously solid sportscar. Here, with a Dodge grille and a fictional electric powertrain that promises 0-60 in less than five seconds and a top speed "in excess of 120 MPH" it should be even better. Especially since the electric motor will deliver all its torque from one RPM. It’s a shame then that I’ll only ever get to drive the Circuit EV in my dreams.

Seeing the pinnacle of plush 'vert super cruising, the Bentley Continental GTC Speed, for the first time was a bit disappointing. It's no fault of the car, which is the fastest four-seat convertible the world has ever seen. It was a result of the crushing 20-minute speech about how the economy is in the shitter and we're all doomed, which was presented by a Bentley executive prior to pulling off the silky sheet.

Today, 600 HP is slightly passé when coming from a twin turbocharged mill, especially when rides like the greatest car ever made are doing more with pushrods and a blower. The base model (Can you really call it that?) comes with the second-largest brakes ever on a production vehicle, with the largest being the optional upgrade package available. With this in mind, don't think we'd kick it out of bed. With the top up, it's capable of cracking the 200 MPH barrier. Top down? Only a meager 195.

Full press release from Bentley below:

New Bentley Continental GTC Speed and GTC

• The new GTC Speed builds on the success of Continental GTC
• The 200 mph GTC Speed is Bentley’s most powerful convertible ever
• The latest GTC range is refined and extended with two new models
• The new GTC delivers enhanced style, comfort and choice

Since its debut in 2006, the Continental GTC has enjoyed sales success in over 50 countries across the globe, attracting younger buyers to the Bentley marque. Customers are attracted to its sleek design, interior craftsmanship, refined performance and agile handling.

Now, the introduction of the new GTC range builds on this success with a subtle evolution of its distinctive style and a range of technical and feature enhancements benefiting comfort and customer choice. The appeal of the GTC is further strengthened by the addition of the new 600bhp (610PS) GTC Speed model. It is Bentley’s most powerful convertible ever and inspired by Bentley’s legendary ‘Speed Models’ from the 1920s.

The new GTC models share a fresh frontal appearance. The radiator grille is more upright with a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the Bentley profile, and bolder lower air intake. These latest models are further distinguished by chrome headlamp bezels, the availability of two new exterior paints and a new colour hide.

For the standard GTC, new low-friction dampers provide improved ride comfort. In addition, two significant new options may be specified on both GTC models: lightweight, fade-resistant, carbon-ceramic brakes, the largest production passenger car brakes in the world, and a sophisticated follow-to-stop Adaptive Cruise Control system with long-range radar sensor that monitors traffic ahead and manages throttle and brakes to maintain a driver-selected time gap.

The GTC’s chassis and exceptionally rigid steel body have proved more than capable of coping with the power of the 552bhp (560PS) 6-litre W12 engine. For the new Continental GTC Speed, Bentley’s twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 600bhp (610PS) that delivers true 200 mph (322 km/h) performance, with the roof up, with exhilarating, effortless acceleration. Even with the roof down the GTC Speed can reach 195 mph (312 km/h).

The Continental GTC Speed is visually distinguished by subtle design enhancements which emphasise its higher performance credentials. At the front, the radiator and lower air intake grilles feature a dark tinted matrix as standard. Larger diameter 9.5J x 20-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels with Bentley-bespoke Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres, lowered and uprated suspension, wider twin-rifled exhaust tail pipes and a new boot-mounted lip spoiler that enhances high speed aerodynamics, reinforce the sporting character of the Speed model.

The GTC Speed’s 600bhp (610PS) W12 engine develops 9 per cent more power than the standard GTC. However, it is the 15 per cent increase in torque that really distinguishes the Speed model, which now develops an impressive output of 750 Nm (553lb ft). This is achieved across virtually the complete rev range, from just 1700 to 5600 rev/min, delivering that characteristic Bentley wave of torque.

The 0-60 mph sprint is despatched in a mere 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds) and 0-100 mph in 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds).

The GT Speed coupe, which debuted in 2007, has become the top selling GT model across the globe. This was followed in summer 2008 by the 4-door Continental Flying Spur Speed. Now, the Speed family is completed with the introduction of the GTC Speed, which is expected to account for up to two-thirds of GTC sales worldwide in its first year of production.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen explains the rationale behind the GTC Speed:

“The Continental GTC is an elegant Grand Touring convertible in the Bentley tradition, exciting the emotions with its distinctive blend of performance, luxury, craftsmanship and modernity. The GTC Speed completes the family of Continental Speed models and broadens the appeal of the GTC to customers who demand a more focused, open-top driving experience.”

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC – NEWS IN BRIEF

Continental GTC range

• New more upright front grille and larger, lower air intake
• Chrome headlamp bezels
• Retuned Servotronic power steering for improved feedback and feel
• Optional follow–to -stop, radar–based Adaptive Cruise Control system
• Optional fade-resistant high-power carbon ceramic brakes (only available with 20 - inch wheels)
• Two new exterior colours – Aquamarine & Blue Crystal
• New interior colour – Aquamarine

Continental GTC Speed

Technical
• 600 bhp (610PS) W12 engine, 9 per cent more power and 15 per cent more torque
• Top speed (roof up) of 200 mph (322km/h) and 0–60 mph in 4.5 secs (0–100 km/h in 4.8 secs)
• Top speed (roof down) of 195 mph (312 km/h)
• Lowered suspension (10mm front, 15 mm rear) features revised spring, anti-roll bar and damper settings for optimised ride quality, comfort and refinement
• New design 9.5J x 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels with Bentley-bespoke Pirelli PZero UHP 275/35 tyres
• New ‘Dynamic’ mode for ESP 8.1 system with progressive intervention

Exterior
• Dark-tinted matrix grilles to upper and lower air intakes
• Bright chrome matrix grilles available as a no cost option
• Dark tint finish to alloy wheels available as an option
• Wider rifled sports exhaust tail pipes
• New aerodynamic rear spoiler
• Black lower bumper valance

Interior
• ‘Speed’ treadplates to both doors
• 3-spoke Sport leather steering wheel
• Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals
• Knurled chrome and hide gear lever
• Diamond quilted hide to seat facings, door pads and rear quarter panels
• Optional turned aluminium inserts to fascia, centre console and door pad inserts.
Continental GTC
• Power output of the standard W12 engine remains at 552bhp (560PS)
• Top speed is unchanged at 195mph (312km/h) with a 0–60mph time of 4.8 secs (0–100 km/h in 5.1 secs)
• Improved ride comfort with new low-friction dampers
• Bentley ‘B’ brake pedal

Enhanced powertrain delivers more power and torque

Both Continental GTC models are powered by Bentley’s 6-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine which is produced exclusively at the company’s Crewe engine plant. The Bentley W12 is the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production with 48 valves and 4 camshafts with continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via a ZF six-speed automatic transmission.

The new Continental GTC Speed is powered by Bentley’s W12 engine in its most powerful, 600 bhp (610PS) form. It develops 15 per cent more torque and 9 per cent more power than the 552bhp (560PS) standard GTC.

Engine efficiency improvements result from the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system, while twin, low inertia turbochargers with minimal turbo lag contribute to the W12 engine’s flat torque curve. In 600 bhp (610PS) form, the W12 develops a maximum torque of 750 Nm (553 lb ft) from 1700 rev/min all the way up to 5600 rev/min. The GTC Speed engine is visually differentiated by the ‘crackle black’ finish to the intake manifold.

This endows the GTC Speed with a top speed of 200mph (322 km/h) with the roof-up and a 0-60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.8 secs). It also accelerates from 0-100 mph in just 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds).

The six-speed transmission can be left in two fully automatic modes (Drive and Sport) or used as a clutchless manual where the driver can change gears sequentially, via either the gearlever or paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.

The advanced continuous all-wheel drive system of both GTC models provides exceptional traction in all weathers. The drive is transferred between the front and rear axles via a highly sensitive centre Torsen differential. If the differential detects a deviation in torque demand between the two axles it automatically sends more power to the wheels with greater grip.

Both the GTC and GTC Speed also feature an advanced electronic stability programme (ESP 8.1). The ‘Sport Traction’ mode for the GTC moderates ESP intervention at low speeds, benefiting driver interaction and control, particularly on low traction surfaces. The ‘Dynamic Mode’ of the GTC Speed allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds compared to the standard chassis. This ensures that torque is reinstated more quickly, allowing the driver to exploit the full potential of the engine.

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering, comments:

“The new GTC Speed exemplifies our passion for creating cars that deliver exceptional performance and driving enjoyment. It is a driver’s car which will redefine people’s expectations of what a luxury convertible can achieve.”

A luxury convertible with outstanding ride and handling

The Continental GTC’s steel body has an exceptionally rigid torsional stiffness of around 30Hz that not only minimises ‘scuttle shake’ but provides a very stable platform for the aluminium-intensive suspension system, optimising its performance. Despite the boost in power and torque for the GTC Speed model, no changes to the body structure were required.

For the 552bhp (560PS) GTC, new low-friction dampers provide improved secondary ride (the response of the car to poor road surfaces) and even greater levels of comfort.

The GTC Speed has a range of dynamic enhancements that deliver a more sporting, open-top Bentley driving experience. The retuned Continous Damping Control (CDC) system ensures that the body response matches the inputs from the new sports wheels and tyres, while improved body control reduces pitch and roll when cornering enthusiastically. In addition, stiffer rear axle bushes deliver better axle control and turn-in response.

The GTC Speed’s suspension is lowered by 10 mm at the front and 15 mm at the rear for improved handling, while the retuned speed-sensitive steering system and solid-mounted front subframe, shared with the standard GTC, benefit steering response.

The wider 9.5J x 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, unique to the GTC Speed, are fitted with bespoke 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres that provide the car with superior grip as well as sharper steering response and feel.

To ensure optimum aerodynamic balance at speeds up to 200 mph (322 km/h) the new GTC Speed is fitted with a discreet spoiler on the trailing edge of the bootlid. This provides additional downforce and increases the top speed.

For both models, Bentley’s carbon-ceramic brakes (CCB) are offered as a cost option. Larger diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear), lightweight discs and eight-piston callipers offer fade-resistant braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal conditions. A 20kg weight saving reduces unsprung mass and benefits steering response and handling. This braking system may only be specified with 20-inch diameter wheels and are the largest and most powerful brakes ever fitted to a production car.

The standard-fit tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) allows drivers to select tyre type and speed range parameters. As well as monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too high for the tyre pressures or if tyre speed ratings are exceeded on winter tyres.

Commenting on the GTC Speed’s character, Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering, said:

“The GTC Speed offers supercar performance, superb refinement, comfort and unrivalled craftsmanship all in one car. It perfectly evokes the spirit of the original Bentley ‘Speed Model’ of the 1920s.”

Subtle evolution of the GTC’s distinctive style

Both the GTC and GTC Speed benefit from subtle revisions to their frontal appearance.

The matrix grille is now more vertical and has a more pronounced square edge that accentuates the distinctive Bentley profile. A new lower bumper design with a widened air intake reinforces the sporting stance of both GTC convertibles, complemented by new chrome headlamp bezels. The new design also provides a practical benefit by improving airflow to the more powerful Speed engine by 14 per cent.

The GTC Speed has a unique set of design cues, notably a dark-tinted matrix grille to the upper and lower air intakes, a black lower bumper valance, wider, rifled exhaust tailpipes and 20-inch, silver-painted, multi-spoke alloy wheels. The wheels are available as an option with a special dark tint finish.

GTC and GTC Speed customers have a choice of 17 ‘standard’ paint colours including two new colours (Aquamarine and Blue Crystal).

Luxurious hand-crafted cabin

The cabins of both GTC and GTC Speed are available with a choice of 6 natural, unbleached, laser-cut wood veneers and 17 premium grade leather hides, including the new option, Aquamarine.

The GTC Speed’s cabin is based on that of the Mulliner Driving Specification (a cost option on the standard GTC). It features diamond quilted hide seats with embroidered Bentley emblems, a knurled chrome and hide gearlever and a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel with brushed aluminium switch surround. These are complemented by drilled alloy foot-pedals and ‘Speed’ logos to the polished treadplates. The standard GTC also receives a new Bentley ‘B’ brake pedal.

A range of options give further opportunities for personalisation, including fascia panels, centre console, door pads and rear quarters in bright aluminium. Uniquely, the GTC Speed is also available with a dark tint aluminium option.

New adaptive cruise control system

A sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is now available on both GTC and GTC Speed. It uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts the throttle or brakes to maintain a ‘time gap’, as selected by the driver.

GTC and GTC Speed interior key features:

• Electronically powered, insulated three-layer fabric roof folds flat in 25 seconds
• True 2+2 configuration
• Fully adjustable electric front seats incorporating three-position memory (seats, steering column, exterior mirrors) and electric lumbar control with optional massage facility
• Rear seat panel removable to reveal lockable ski hatch
• Electronic climate control system
• Comprehensive infotainment system includes:
▬ DVD satellite navigation system with route guidance and post-code entry
▬ Optional television tuner (except for US market)
▬ Climate control operation
▬ Computerised suspension control operation (damper and ride height settings)
▬ 6-CD auto changer in glove compartment
▬ Optional Naim for Bentley premium audio system featuring 1100 Watt amplifier and 14 speakers
• BluetoothTM remote SIM access profile telephone system with wireless connectivity for rSAP-enabled telephones, most BluetoothTM-enabled telephones and onboard SIM-card reader
• Telephone voice dialling (n/a Japan)
• Keyless entry and keyless ignition system
• Power latching of doors for easy exit and entry
• Console-mounted start/stop button
• Electronic park brake with move-off assist (move-off assist n/a for USA)
• Column-mounted gearshift paddles for sequential gear shifting
• Stainless steel-faced foot pedals and driver’s footrest
• Comprehensive anti-theft and immobiliser systems
• An advanced rollover protection system is installed beneath the rear headrests - two reinforced steel hoops deploy in a split second when a potential roll-over situation is detected

Ends

CONTINENTAL GTC SPEED AND GTC
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL TYPE
Body type Two-door, 2+2 Grand Tourer convertible
Construction Steel monocoque with aluminium, steel and composite panels and closure

ENGINE
Type Twin-turbocharged W12 engine
Installation Front, longitudinal
Construction Alloy block and heads
Bore/stroke 84.0 x 90.2 mm
Capacity 6.0-litre, 5998 cc
Compression ratio 9.0:1
Valve gear Chain-driven DOHC per bank, 4 valves per cylinder, cam phased inlet and outlet
Power
GTC Speed 600 bhp / 610 PS / 449 kW @ 6000 rev/min
GTC 552 bhp / 560 PS / 412 kW @ 6100 rev/min

Torque
GTC Speed 750 Nm / 553 lb ft between 1750 – 5600 rev/min
GT 650 Nm / 479 lb ft @ between1600 – 6100 rev/min
Fuel 98 (95) RON

TRANSMISSION
Type Continuous all-wheel drive
Gearbox ZF 6-speed automatic with fully automatic or
sequential ‘manual’ operation with paddleshift feature; torque converter lock-up clutch
Ratios 1st: 4.17
2nd: 2.34
3rd: 1.52
4th: 1.14
5th: 0.87
6th: 0.69
Final drive: 3.524 (front), 3.528 (rear)

SUSPENSION
Front Four-link double wishbones, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar
Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar
Springs Computer-controlled progressive air springs
Dampers Continuous damping control, with four adjustable settings

STEERING
Type Rack & pinion, power-assisted, speed-sensitive
Turns lock to lock 2.7
Turning circle (kerb to kerb) 11.4 m ( 37’ 5”)

BRAKES
Front 405 mm ventilated discs (optional 420 mm carbon/ ceramic, cross-drilled discs – with 20-inch wheels)
Rear 335 mm ventilated discs (optional 356 mm carbon/ ceramic, cross-drilled discs – with 20-inch wheels)
Anti lock Standard ESP and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

WHEELS & TYRES
Wheels
GTC Speed 9.5J 20-inch Alloy
GTC 9.0J 19-inch Alloy (optional 9.0J 20-inch Alloy)
Tyres
GTC Speed 275/35 x ZR20 bespoke Pirelli PZero UHP
GTC 275/40 x ZR19 Pirelli PZero Rosso
(optional 275/30 x 20 Pirelli PZero)

DIMENSIONS
EXTERIOR
Overall length 4804 mm (189.1 in)
Overall width (inc. mirrors) 2194 mm (86.4 in)
Height (roof raised)
GTC Speed 1388 mm (54.6 in)
GTC 1398 mm (55.0 in)
Wheelbase 2745 mm (108.1 in)
Front track 1623 mm (63.9 in)
Rear track 1607 mm (63.3 in)

INTERIOR
Front headroom 942 mm (37.1 in)
Front legroom 1075 mm (42.3 in)
Front shoulder room 1568 mm (61.7 in)
Rear headroom 979 mm (38.5 in)
Rear legroom 743 mm (29.3 in)
Rear shoulder room 1318 mm (51.9 in)

WEIGHTS & CAPACITIES
GTC Speed & GTC
Kerbweight 2485 kg (5478 lb)
Gross vehicle weight 2900 kg (6393 lb)
Luggage capacity 235 litres
Fuel tank capacity 90 litres (24 US gallons)

PERFORMANCE
Top speed (roof up)
GTC Speed 200 mph (322 km/h)
GTC 195 mph (312 km/h)
Top speed (roof down)
GTC Speed 195 mph (314 km/h)
GTC 190 mph (306 km/h)
0-60 mph (0-100 km/h)
GTC Speed 4.5 seconds (4.8 seconds)
GTC 4.8 seconds (5.1 seconds)
0-100 mph (0-160 km/h)
GTC Speed 10.6 seconds (10.5 seconds)
GTC 11.4 seconds (11.4 seconds)

FUEL CONSUMPTION/EMISSIONS
EU CYCLE
GTC Speed and GTC
Urban 11.2 mpg (25.3 litres/100 km)
Extra-Urban 24.3 mpg (11.6 litres/100 km)
Combined 17.0 mpg (16.6 litres/100 km)
Co2 emissions 396 g/km
Emission controls EU 1V and US LEV II

EPA DRIVE CYCLE
GTC Speed and GTC
City Driving 10.0 mpg (US)
Highway Driving 17.0 mpg (US)

FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS

CONTINENTAL GTC SPEED

EXTERIOR FEATURES Dark tinted radiator grille and lower grille
Chromed headlamp bezels
Twin rifled oval stainless steel sports tail pipes
Lowered sports suspension
20-inch, two-piece, multi-spoke alloy wheels

INTERIOR FEATURES Unique treadplates bearing ‘Speed’ model name
Diamond quilted hide to seat facings, doors
and rear quarter panels
Embroidered Bentley emblem to seat facings
Cloth hide headlining
Single-tone, hide-trimmed multi-function steering
wheel in a 3-spoke sports design with brushed silver
switch surround
Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals

CONTINENTAL GTC

EXTERIOR FEATURES Bright chromed radiator grille
Chromed headlamp bezels
Twin oval stainless steel tail pipes

INTERIOR FEATURES Single tone, hide-trimmed multi-function
steering wheel in a 4-spoke design
Brake pedal with Bentley ‘B’ emblem
Hide and chrome trimmed gear lever with
manual shift change facility

SELECTION OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE
‘Naim for Bentley’ premium audio system
iPod/MP3/USB interface
20-inch, two-piece, seven-spoke alloy wheels (GTC only)
Fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes
ACC Adaptive Cruise Control

THE MULLINER DRIVING SPECIFICATION
(STANDARD ON GTC SPEED, OPTIONAL ON GTC)

THIS PACKAGE INCLUDES:
• Choice of veneers - Burr Walnut, Dark Stained Burr Walnut,
Piano Black (additional veneers available at extra cost)
• Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals
• Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
• Diamond quilted hide to seat facings, doors and rear quarter panels
• Embroidered Bentley emblem to seat facings
• 20 inch 2-piece alloy sports wheels (GTC only)
• 20 inch multi-spoke alloy wheels in Dark Tint painted finish (GTC Speed only)

MULLINER FEATURES AVAILABLE SEPARATELY FOR BOTH MODELS:
• Mulliner alloy fuel filler cap
• Exterior paint match service to customer specification
• Exterior paint colour from Arnage range
• Contrast stitching to seats and door panels
• Cross-stitching to seats and door panels (in contrast)
• Embossed ‘BENTLEY’ to seat facings
• Choice of premium veneers – Chestnut and Olive Ash
• Fascia panels available in bright or dark tint* aluminium
• 4-spoke wood and hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel
(choice of veneers - Burr Walnut, Chestnut, Dark Stained Burr Walnut,
Madrona, Piano Black)
• Lambswool rugs
• Deep-pile carpet mats with hide trimming to front and rear footwells
(matched to carpet)
• Boot carpet to match interior carpet

*Available on GTC Speed only

Each year the Eyes On Design committee invites the best-of-the-best to their annual shindig in the lower depths of Cobo Hall. The awards are given to the most impressively designed vehicles exhibited at the Detroit Auto Show and are divided into two categories; Design Excellence for Concept Cars and Design Excellence for Production Cars. John McElroy of Autoline Detroit fame, was the MC for the event and was quick to introduce the three chief judges; Chris Bangle, BMW's design chief; Willie G Davidson, Harley-Davidson chief styling officer; and Larry Erickson, chair of transportation design at the College for Creative Studies. The over-sized egos sucking up all the oxygen and the strange stench from the EcoXperience test track made for a dizzying experience, but we were pleased with the award winners, though we thought Volvo's S60 and Chrysler's 200C deserved a spot.

Award for design excellence, production car:
Audi R8 5.2 FSI Makes Live Detroit Debut
Award for design excellence, production car:
2010 BMW Z4 Slips Onto The Stage
Award for design excellence, concept car:
Audi Sportback Concept Previews 2009 Audi A5 Sportback
Award for design excellence, concept car:
Cadillac Converj Concept: A Volt For Cadillac

This was probably a carefully assembled scene destined for fancy lighting and a once-over by high-dollar photographers for some glossy print mag. Instead, we drove up in our GEM car and took these first-ever photos of the 2010 Honda Insight with its direct rival, the 2010 Toyota Prius. The two hybrid headliners from Japan made their official debuts here at the 2009 Detroit Auto show and will be duking it out for self-satisfied sales later this year.

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid was also there, which is funny because it was previously been spottedposing with the Cadillac Converj, another car in no way associated with the Fusion's segment of "non-jellybean-shaped sedan with great gas mileage." The Fusion Hybrid is a great car on its own merits but folks are tossing it into shoots, making it look like Chester the Terrier. 'Hey guys! What's up, fellas? Want to play hypermiling?'

Bill Malone is famous for card tricks told to the tune of a story, as such he's been hired to shill for Ford, extolling the virtues the 2010 Ford Taurus as well as the 2010 Ford Fusion as he delights onlookers with displays of slight of hand. Even we couldn't stomach the sugar coated love fest on his script, but we were amused as he performed for Ford big wigs. Among the onlookers is Mark Fields, President of the Americas for Ford and Derrick Kuzak, Vice President of Global Product Development for Ford.

The scene almost seems like it was deliberately set up as bait for a round of "Caption This."

The "ferrous oxide" battery technology developed by BYD, if it lives up to their own somewhat fantastic claims of 250 miles on a full charge, is far superior to anything currently being delivered or promised by an automaker. In fact, the closest anyone has come to offering similar technology is a claim by Chrysler regarding their Dodge Circuit EV. In their press release they state the EV should achieve "zero tailpipe emissions and 150-200 mile driving range" if it comes to production.

While BYD hopes to sell their F3DM, F6DM and E6 vehicles into North America, the company has admitted they're happy to license their technology to automakers. We spoke with David Sokol, CEO of MidAmerican Holding Company, the Warren Buffett-owned subsidiary who purchased a 10% stake in BYD based on their capabilities. As MidAmerican is one of the largest commercial electric suppliers and biggest holders of renewable energies, the partnership with BYD made sense for MidAmerican.

But in speaking with Mr. Sokol he was frank in explaining the partnership which will bring BYD technology to the market the quickest is one with another automaker and, according to him, they've been speaking with domestic and foreign companies for approximately four months. They won't divulge who they're speaking with, but we'd like to point out Chrysler President Tom Lasorda was seen hanging around the BYD announcement this morning.

There are two main reasons for doing this. First, another manufacturer would be able to utilize their own existing production capacity and dealer network to create and package the cars. Second, as Sokol admitted, the fit-and-finish of their vehicles is probably the largest shortcoming. This was highlighted by the fact they had him doing interviews in front of a sign for BYD with the company's "Build Your Dreams" tagline written out in script with the first "r" missing. Our awesome videographer Kyle Conner fixes it for him at one point, which is hilarious.

While we can't be for sure whose dream it is to have BYD design them a battery pack, but we've already described the vehicle from Chrysler as fantasies.

The trend towards building concept cars which hint at the near future, as opposed to creating vehicles for some rocket-powered utopia of the 24th century, accelerated at this year's show thanks to some serious pushing and prodding in the way of higher gas prices in the first half of the year and government dollars in the latter half.

But will they ever see the light of day? Many of them won't, a handful may (depending on the economy) and a few will absolutely. The concepts below are ranked based on the probability they could see production in a mostly complete form, starting with the least likely and ending with a car, at number one, almost certain to go on sale.

11.) Chrysler 200C EV Concept

Likelihood of production: Less Than 1%

Why / Why Not: The 200C EV looks like a future Chrysler vehicle insomuch as it looks like a blend of Hyundai and every other mid-size on the market — boring. Still, considering the segment, it's not too shabby looking and sans the auto show touches this could be a Chrysler Sebring replacement if fitted with a conventional power source. If they ever produce another Sebring.

10.) Jeep Patriot EV

Likelihood of production: 5%

Why / Why Not: It's a Jeep Patriot. With electric power! And by "with electric power" we mean it has stickers proclaiming the car as an electric vehicle. The Patriot, a vehicle with an extremely high coefficient of drag, seems very inefficient as a gasoline vehicle and hilariously inefficient as an electric. We're not holding our breath.

9.) Dodge Circuit EV

Likelihood of production: 8-10%

Why / Why Not: Based on an existing Lotus platform, there's not much engineering Chrysler would have to do to the vehicle to make it a reality — just slap that crossbared-front end on and call it a day. Still, even if Chrysler can grab an electric power source and battery supplier we're still without much hope for the vehicle. Why? Our lack of faith in Chrysler's electric, or any other, future.

8.) Lincoln C Concept

Likelihood of production: 20%

Why / Why Not: There's a lot to like about the C Concept, including the Ford small car global platform and the theoretical four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. We're not sure if Lincoln will actually go in this direction, but we'd love to see a car pull out the C's gorgeous interior and advanced SYNC 2.0.

7.) Cadillac Converj Concept

Likelihood of production: 30%

Why / Why Not: GM may be on the verge of introducing their next batch of green technology, but the first vehicle it will be fitted to will not be a Cadillac. Should the Volt succeed, a Cadillac version isn't out of the picture — especially considering the price point. Hey, if Lexus can roll with a re-badged Prius at a higher price point, why can't the General?

6.) Kia Soul'ster Concept

Likelihood of production: 35%

Why / Why Not: We were going to rank the Kia Soul-atracker-amino closer to the least likely car, despite its production Soul underpinnings, and then an auto journalist we respect said he wanted one. So there we go — market potential if only for the So Cal auto-journo market.

5.) Volkswagen Bluesport Concept

Likelihood of production: 36%

Why / Why Not: Volkswagen's sister Audi already produces a mid-engined roadster, so the idea of a VW one powered by their beloved TDI engine isn't so far fetched. The lack of the usual concept accessories also points to the possibility of such a vehicle.

4.) Toyota FT-EV Concept

Likelihood of production: 55%

Why / Why Not: The Toyota FT-EV, based on the existing Toyota iQ micro car, may not keep the gold paint but it will almost certainly go into production given Toyota's plans for just such a car in the small econobox segment.

3.) Volvo S60 Concept

Likelihood of production: 80%

Why / Why Not: Will Volvo produce another S60? We think so. The styling is radical for the brand's typical image but inline with recent product like the Volvo XC60. We just hope it keeps the viking longboat headlights.

2.5.) Fisker Karma S Sunset

Likelihood of production: 85%

Why / Why Not: Essentially a convertible version of the hardtop, they're already saying this is the "World's First Hybrid Convertible" and have announced they'll build it alongside the sedan version.

2.) Subaru Legacy Concept

Likelihood of production: 90%

Why / Why Not: Give it shiny pearl paint and a "Vote No On Prop 8" bumper sticker and everyone would think it's the new Subaru Legacy because, we expect, there will be a new Subaru Legacy. Some of the heavily worked aspects will probably be toned down but the attractive design is an evolution of what's out there now.

1.) Audi Sportback Concept

Likelihood of production: 99.9%

Why / Why Not: This concept, mostly in this form, will come to the market as the 2010 Audi A5 Sportback. Our source for this great information? Audi told everyone in their press conference. Pontiac may build excitement but Audi sure knows how to build the suspense.

David Edgar, a Chrysler employee working at the Warren Stamping Plant, is not happy. He's sick of "our race to the bottom." He's sick of "what a working man has to go through to make a livable wage." He's sick of "free trade," so he and his UAW local friends are going to fix it. Through protests and rallies, this sizable cadre of autoworkers from a variety of local factories hopes to turn the tide. Being on the inside of the show and looking out, it's a lot like the movie Airheads, but without the rock. Also, no Chris Farley. Ford marketing maven Jim Farley, yes, but he's just his cousin.

The leaders of the protest believe that pressures have been mounting since 1980 to "pull the rug out from under the UAW." One protester stated that he has shrunk his standard of living by selling his boat - and buying a smaller one. God, save us all.

We stand by what we've already said — the 2010 Lincoln MKT represents a serious effort underway at Ford to position Lincoln as a true luxury brand, not just a series of gussied-up Fords with higher price tags. This new seven passenger entry into the luxury crossover market brings a boatload of in-car technology coupled with hardware options like the 355 HP twin-turbocharged Ecoboost V6, all-wheel-drive and paddle shifters on the standard six speed automatic. Inside, the cabin gets claimed class-leading material choices and styling that rivals any of the competitor in the market.

Lincoln is aiming at tech savvy buyers with it's new products and as such the MKT is loaded to the gills with gizmos. Options include voice activated navigation, Sync, Sirius Travelink, Ford's Active Parking Assist system, BLIS blindspot alert system which gets cross traffic parking lot alerts, to name a few options. You can read more below in the complete press release.

Distinctive new three-row Lincoln mkt offers luxuries of Fuel economy, TECHNOLOGY, space

Detroit, Jan. 12, 2009 – Lincoln is offering full-size luxury crossover customers a fresh new choice with the 2010 Lincoln MKT, a three-row tourer that delivers the optimal blend of fuel economy, performance, technology and spaciousness.

“We’re growing Lincoln’s product portfolio with a full-size crossover that offers more of everything luxury buyers want today – including more variety,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “Lincoln MKT will help us further build momentum for Lincoln, which has been outpacing its luxury competitors and growing market share in recent months.”

The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT is larger than the two-row Lincoln MKX mid-size premium crossover and joins the sumptuous and sporty Lincoln MKS luxury sedan launched in 2008 and the new Lincoln MKZ sedan that hits the market in spring.

Standard on every Lincoln MKT is the brand’s signature design – complete with a split waterfall grille, a beveled chamfer along the vehicle’s shoulder line, a flowing cantrail that frames the greenhouse and full-width horizontal taillamps that span the subtly curved weight-saving magnesium liftgate that adds visual character while protecting generous rear cargo space.

Precision Lincoln MKT craftsmanship is reflected in world-class panel margins, and in the high tactile quality of interior surfaces and trim.

Inside, high-quality materials and precision-stitched craftsmanship are evident on every surface – from the leather-trimmed seating surfaces and floating armrests to the optional flow-through second- row center console and jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster with LED white lighting.

Beyond that, customers can choose how to best specify Lincoln MKT, which offers:
Customers’ choice of a standard fixed glass Panoramic Vista Roof™ with power-assisted front and rear sunshades – or the available Power Panoramic VistaTM roof
Either six- or seven-passenger variations with two different second-row seating configurations. A standard 60/ 40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions. Power “fold and tumble” bucket seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustment are also available. A rear console-mounted five-quart-capacity refrigerator is available in the individual bucket seating configuration
Second-row footrests and an available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens offering individual or simultaneous programming

A litany of exterior paint colors, including Ingot Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Tuxedo Black Clearcoat Metallic, Red Candy Tint Clearcoat Metallic, Cinnamon Clearcoat Metallic, Steel Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Gold Leaf Clearcoat Metallic, Sterling Grey Clearcoat Metallic and White Platinum Tri-Coat

Balancing power and efficiency
Fuel-efficiency also comes standard on the Lincoln MKT – and customers have a choice of two powerful yet practical V-6 engines.

A 3.7-liter, 24-valve variation of the award-winning Duratec engine family is standard. Delivering an expected 268 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 267 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 RPM, this engine has been tuned to provide brisk acceleration and smooth power delivery with best-in-class noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control.

A two-speed fuel pump and Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off (ADFSO), combined with optimized transmission and final drive gearing, are designed to help this engine to deliver segment-leading fuel economy of an estimated 24 mpg highway, besting both the Acura MDX and Audi Q7 by 4 mpg..

For even more performance driving feel, Lincoln MKT also offers a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6. This engine provides the power of a normally-aspirated V-8 with V-6 fuel economy. This advanced engine delivers a class-leading estimated 355 horsepower at 5,700 RPM, while generating 350 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 RPM.

EcoBoost is a global Ford strategy to deliver the power that customers want, combined with the fuel economy that they need. Combining gasoline direct injection with twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine, EcoBoost can match the power output of larger, naturally aspirated engines while yielding torque and fuel economy gains.

Pressurized direct injection helps eliminate the “turbo lag” associated with earlier turbocharged engines. And even with the additional horsepower, fuel economy is optimized by an increased compression ratio, enabled by air-charged cooling and sophisticated knock controls.

Lincoln MKT is equipped with a six-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission. This advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control.

In addition, paddle shifters are integrated into the steering wheel spokes. Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a “matched-rev” downshift.

This capability makes the Lincoln MKT driving experience sporty, yet smooth. Unlike other competitive transmissions, SelectShift won’t “second guess” the driver with an override shift. With SelectShift, manual control is truly manually controlled.

All-wheel-drive is optional in the Lincoln MKT with the standard 3.7-liter V-6. The AWD option enhances the vehicle’s capability in a variety of weather conditions. The sophisticated AWD system is fully automatic, using an advanced array of internal electro-mechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque between front and rear wheels as needed. AWD is standard in the Lincoln MKT with the EcoBoost 3.5-liter V-6.

Quiet, confident motoring
“The Lincoln MKT strikes the optimum balance between capable and driver-engaging handling, while simultaneously delivering a smooth quiet ride in all three rows,” said Chief Engineer Ron Heiser. “It combines a luxury touring experience with an agile ride and available Class III towing strength, as well.”

Key elements of Lincoln MKT suspension development and tuning included minimizing front end lift on acceleration, offering stable and engaging steering and handling characteristics that provide confidence to all drivers, all while delivering a luxurious ride quality consistent with Lincoln brand character.

A new rear suspension system features a “one for one” shock absorber ratio. The resulting linear response gave the engineering team a stable base line for suspension tuning, allowing the team to deliver a better balance between responsive handling and control as well as a smooth ride. It also improves rear suspension isolation and enables the use of 20-inch wheels.

Lincoln MKT delivers a new level of quiet confidence that delivers best-in-class levels of NVH control. Virtual modeling and wind tunnel tests helped engineers optimize the vehicle, influencing everything from side view mirror placement and special sound deadening in the bulkhead to extensive exhaust system isolation and the inclusion of both an acoustic windshield and dual-layer front side glass to specifically reduce A-pillar wind noise.

On the 3.5 EcoBoost V-6 equipped versions, engineers directed additional effort to minimizing induction noise, while still providing a rewarding aural cadence to Lincoln MKT acceleration.

Premium innovations
Lincoln MKT delivers abundant technologies aimed at making life luxurious for both the driver and three rows of passengers. A holistic approach was used to develop these amenities, where ease of use and intuitive operation were key objectives. Nowhere is this focus more apparent than with Active Park Assist.

Lincoln MKT with EcoBoost features advanced Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), which enables the optional Active Park Assist. This innovative Lincoln-exclusive technology employs an ultrasonic-based sensing system, as opposed to video camera-reliant competitive offerings, making hands-free parallel parking a breeze.

Active Park Assist works at the touch of a button, requiring less driver programming, reducing the risk of selecting an inappropriately sized parking space, detecting edges of adjacent objects to calculate optimized trajectory and “steering” the Lincoln MKT while coaching the driver through conventional throttle and braking inputs.

In addition to completing a parking maneuver quickly, Active Park Assist is also the first system to operate in uphill parking situations, unlike competitive systems on the market.

Additional Lincoln MKT customer convenience features include:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows the driver to set and maintain vehicle speed, while radar monitors traffic ahead of the Lincoln MKT. This optional system automatically adjusts speed and slows the vehicle to maintain the set distance behind traffic ahead.

Intelligent Access with Push Button Start allows the driver to enter the Lincoln MKT and start the engine without using the key. Entry is made easier as drivers simply carry the special fob as they approach the vehicle and start the engine by pushing a button.

SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad allows access to Lincoln MKT by unlocking the driver’s door by entering a pre-set five-digit code in the flush-mounted, backlit keypad integrated into the B-pillar.

Adaptive Headlamps with Standard High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps enhance nighttime visibility. Sensors monitor Lincoln MKT speed and steering wheel input to engage headlamp movement to increase the driver’s field of vision.

Auto High Beams coupled with Adaptive Headlamps enhance nighttime visibility by switching to high intensity when no other vehicles are in range.

Rain-Sensing Wipers use an optical sensing system to gauge precipitation and automatically activate and adjust the wipers.

EasyFuel™ Capless Fuel-Filler System self seals when refueling is complete.

MyKey™ allows parent or other concerned owners to restrict certain Lincoln MKT features when in the hands of a MyKey driver.
MyKey encourages safety belt usage, provides earlier low fuel warnings, engages applicable driver aid systems and sounds speed chimes at preset levels while limiting audio system volume and top vehicle speed.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) comes into play when a turn signal is activated. A radar sensor on the outboard rear quarter panel monitors the traditional blind spot area and can notify the driver with a warning indicator light in the corresponding side view mirror if the sensors in this optional system detect a vehicle in the blind spot.

Cross Traffic Alert uses BLIS sensors to help detect traffic when backing out of a parking space. When the vehicle is in reverse and it senses traffic, mirror warning lights illuminate and audible signals sound.

Spotter Mirrors add secondary convex spotter mirror panels in the top outer corner of the side view mirrors, specifically oriented to reflect objects often lost in a driver’s blind spot.

Reverse Camera System, a standard Lincoln MKT feature, uses the centerstack-mounted touch/ navigation screen for projection and activates upon reverse gear engagement.

Lincoln SYNC™ is standard on Lincoln MKT. This award-winning voice activated communications and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft fully integrates Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones and digital media players into the vehicle.

SYNC incorporates 911 Assist, which can notify a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag deployment incident. SYNC Vehicle Health Report feature can keep the driver notified of scheduled maintenance, service intervals and vehicle system health information.

Lincoln MKT is offered with two audio technology choices. Standard is an AM/FM In-Dash Single CD/DVD/MP3 capable unit with 10 speakers, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with six-month prepaid subscription, an auxiliary input jack and a USB port.

The available Navigation Package includes an internal hard-drive for map and point-of-interest information storage, THX II® Certified 5.1 Surround Audio System with 14 strategically aimed Premium Audio speakers.

A unique new technology, making its debut in the Lincoln MKT audio upgrade package, is Neural Surround significantly improving the surround sound experience from compressed digital music formats. In addition, a SIRIUS Travel Link™ prepaid subscription is included with the Navigation Package providing coast-to-coast weather data, forecasts, fuel prices, sports scores, movie listings and more.

The available Navigation Package also enables the driver to display personal photos on the centerstack-mounted touchscreen. The system can store and display up to 32 photos, sized 1.5MB or less. The home screen can be personalized, by display or desired information or photos in one, tow or three panel views.

Both systems feature an internal Jukebox hard drive for storage of up to 150 hours of recorded audio entertainment. Users can browse the Jukebox via touch screen or voice control. Gracenote® technology will display the CD cover when a selected track is playing.

Technology under the skin
“The new Lincoln MKT brings together a compelling package of active and passive safety features that work to help protect its passengers,” said Stephen Kozak, safety engineering chief.

The Lincoln MKT features a new technology aimed at helping make driving safer.

Collision Warning with Brake Support, enabled by Adaptive Cruise Control, provides the driver with a “heads-up” display that flashes on the windshield when the system senses slower moving traffic ahead. If the driver doesn’t respond, the system will pre-charge the brakes to prepare the vehicle for a more aggressive stop.

The Lincoln MKT also features an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails, and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.

Lincoln MKT also features Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement (SPACE) Architecture incorporated to optimize side-impact occupant protection.

The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high strength steel tube embedded in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and along the rocker panels to form a safety cage to help protect passengers in side impact incidents.

Lincoln MKT also features Ford’s enhanced Personal Safety System, combining multiple technologies to tailor the air bag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances. The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage to adjust air bag deployment force.

Additional Lincoln MKT safety technologies include:
Safety Canopy™ is Ford’s exclusive side impact protection system employing side curtain air bags to help protect front and outboard rear passengers in both rollover and side impact crashes.

Beltminder® reminder technology for driver and front seat passenger, persistently taking over after the initial safety belt signal stops chiming.

SOS Post-Crash Alert System automatically flashes the turn signal lamps and sounds the horn following deployment of an air bag or activation of a safety belt pretensioner.

“The Lincoln MKT is all about delivering more for customers – more choice, more premium features and technologies and even more luxury for people in all three rows,” Fields said.

The Lincoln MKT will be built at Ford’s Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada, and will be in dealer showrooms in late summer.

We lingered long past the close of the show last night, making time with some of the cars without the annoying presence of other people and managed to hit the Lincoln stand as the little C was being loaded onto its spinning round table. It's sort of like making sausage, you never really think about the process of doing it, only the end result.

Here in Detroit, the process begins with a crew of Teamsters coming in and taking down the barriers put up to guard against the filthy masses during public days. Next they lay down cushions to protect the pristine edge from any damage which may occur as the long aluminum ramps are laid in place. The next part is easy with a car that has an actual powertrain, fire it up and drive up the ramp, as we see here, taking guidance from your Teamster spotters. In an unpowered concept it's a matter of pushing the thing up there. The car is then centered on the table and the ramps and pads taken away, the people-fence is reassembled, and it's ready for the unwashed masses and thousands of camera phone photos.

Sadly, the turntable is stationary throughout this whole process; we'd like to see the degree of difficulty elevated.

Alpine Electronics revealed that they will be providing the newly released 2010 Buick LaCrosse, 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2010 Cadillac SRX with a 2-GB flash memory infotainment unit allowing drivers to store music directly on the head unit. They will also provide the new 2010 BMW Z4 with a 1280x480 resolution 8.8-inch double VGA display that is capable of delivering HD-level graphics for the navigation maps and the back-up camera. Mercedes was the most impressive of the trio, receiving a high resolution 6.5 WVGA TFT display with a 40GB on-board hard drive capable of storing thousands of MP3s from an SD card. It also receives an upgraded voice recognition control system, Bluetooth, text-to-speech (unfortunately not available in the U.S.), real time traffic update via Sirius Satellite Radio, Gracenote music tagging and a six-disc DVD Audio/Video changer.

Also of note, is the claim that Alpine will provide a portfolio of environmentally-friendly products to support automakers as they focus their resources on creating energy efficient vehicles. We're waiting to see a head unit constructed entirely out of hemp so we can roll it up and smoke it.

Alpine GM Press Release
Alpine Electronics Supplies 2-GB Flash Memory
Infotainment Unit for 2010 GM Vehicles
DETROIT, (Jan. 9, 2009) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., the industry leading provider of mobile media solutions, today announced it will supply a premium infotainment unit on the all-new 2010 Buick LaCrosse, 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and 2010 Cadillac SRX. The redesigned vehicles will be unveiled next week at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The new infotainment system will be on display in Alpine’s booth (Room 02-44; Cobo Center) during press and industry preview days.
Alpine’s infotainment package is available on the CXL and CXS LaCrosse models; the LT and LTZ Equinox models; and the Cadillac SRX.
Features include a single DVD/CD player for both movies and audio and AM/FM
radio with an integrated XM® Satellite Radio tuner. Other key features include:
• One of the industry’s first on-board 2-GB flash-based head unit for music storage
• Time-shift audio feature allows listeners to pause, rewind and replay up to one hour of XM Radio or AM/FM programming
• USB 2.0 for iPod® and flash memory connectivity
• Simultaneously plays two digital media audio files so driver and back seat passengers can listen to different songs at the same time
• Rear-seat entertainment support including DVD movie and audio output
• OnStar turn-by-turn voice-guided navigation support
“Our premium infotainment system on these highly anticipated GM vehicles ensures drivers and their passengers never miss a beat,” said Todd Kovach, vice president and general manager, Alpine Electronics. “Today, music is not only on a disc or AM/FM radio – it’s on USB drives, satellite radio and iPods. Our infotainment system allows users to store thousands of songs and even keeps back seat passengers busy with DVD and audio controls. The system also makes it possible to play two different digital media audio tracks simultaneously – so back seat passengers are never limited to listening to what the driver is playing.”

Alpine BMW Press Release
Alpine Electronics to Supply High-Res Display to
All-New 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster
8.8” display is one of the largest center stack displays on market
DETROIT, (Jan. 11, 2009) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., the industryleading
provider of mobile media solutions, today announced it will supply the 8.8”
center information display on the all-new 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster. The all-new
Roadster was unveiled today at the 2009 North American International Auto Show.
The new product will be showcased at Alpine’s booth (Room 02-44; Cobo Center)
during press and industry days.
Alpine’s motorized clamshell-style display opens effortlessly from the center stack
with a simple touch of a button, and seamlessly closes for a sleek look when not in
use. The 1280x480 resolution 8.8” Double VGA (video graphics array) display is one
of the largest center stack displays on the market, delivering high definition visuals
for the Z4’s navigation maps and back-up camera. This display helps improve at-aglance
recognition and reduces eye strain.
“Alpine is proud to be a part of the BMW Z4 Roadster program,” said Todd Kovach,
vice president and general manager of Alpine Electronics. “This center information
display is an example of Alpine’s technology innovation and quality precision at
work. Not only are we leaders in the sound and navigation arenas, Alpine delivers
sleek interior styling solutions that enhance a vehicle’s personality, functionality
and human machine interface (HMI).”

Alpine Mercedes Press Release
Alpine Electronics Supplies Integrated Media Infotainment Systems
to Global Mercedes-Benz Platforms
DETROIT, (Jan. 11, 2009) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., the industryleading
provider of mobile media solutions, today announced it is supplying head
units to a global Mercedes-Benz program. Alpine made the announcement during
the 2009 North American International Auto Show, where part of the company’s
exhibit (Room 02-44; Cobo Center) includes a Mercedes-Benz SLK350 with a
premium infotainment system.
Alpine head units are available as standard, mid-level and premium equipment on
the Mercedes-Benz SLK, SL, E-Class, CLS, A-Class, B-Class, M-Class, R-Class, GL,
and G-Class vehicles in North America, Europe, Japan, China, Russia, Southeast
Asia, Middle East, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
“This multi-part, global program is a testament to the quality of Alpine products and
the flexibility of our engineers to meet customer specifications across many vehicle
platforms,” said Todd Kovach, vice president and general manager, Alpine
Electronics. “Alpine has evolved from a sound system icon serving aftermarket
enthusiasts to a Tier One original-equipment supplier supporting multiple platform
requirements to customers around the world. From entry-level head units to
premium navigation systems, we are taking in-vehicle entertainment to the next
level.”
Featuring a hi-resolution 6.5-inch WVGA TFT display, the premium-level
head unit includes a hard-disk drive (HDD) navigation system that uses
advanced technology for faster route calculation, richer map views and user-friendly
human-machine interface (HMI).
The premium system, which is on display in Alpine’s room at the show (02-44),
includes a 40GB hard drive with space dedicated exclusively for music
storage. Users can download thousands of their favorite MP3 tunes from an SD
Card. Other features include:
• Voice recognition for system control
• Bluetooth™ for hands-free telephone connectivity
• Text-to-speech (not available in the U.S.)
• Real time traffic information powered by Sirius® Satellite Radio
• Gracenote® music tagging to capture artist, album and song information
• Six-disc DVD Audio and Video changer
Alpine Electronics Supplies Integrated Media Infotainment Systems to Mercedes-Benz 2
• Teleaid™ interface
• HD™ Radio capability
• Zagat restaurant guide
• Media interface including iPod® integration
• Dolby® Digital
• DTS®
• MP3, WMA, AAC format playback
The mid-level unit, available only in Europe, features a 5-inch TFT display that
controls a DVD-based infotainment system featuring Bluetooth connectivity, voice
command, text-to-speech and navigation with real-time traffic powered by TMC.
The standard head unit features has a 5-inch TFT color screen with AM/FM radio,
single or six-disc changer and Bluetooth™ connectivity.

[via Alpine]

We've seen the BAT 11dk before, but thanks to the Carpocalypse thinning the field, he’s displaying his concept BAT 11dk right across from VW. Gary, who hopes the car will help raise breast cancer awareness, was invited to share room on the main show floor with the College For Creative Studies’ — thanks to their unexpectedly large display area. The college traditionally occupies a much smaller slot in the show’s basement, but, along with Brilliance Auto and other previous underground dwellers, the show's withdrawal of Nissan and Porsche has bumped them up with the big boys.

We’re excited to see the BAT 11 on the show floor not just because it’s a seriously cool car, but because the story behind it is so touching. The idea to create a new BAT car came several years after Gary sold his original Bat 9, along with a Ferrari F40 and most of his savings, to finance experimental treatment for his wife’s breast cancer. Bertone built this concept for Gary just as it was going bankrupt, with the company’s designers working overtime to finish it before the financing dried up.

The ultimate plan is to build, in his wife’s memory, a working version of the BAT 11 based on the Alfa Romeo 8C chassis and powered by a 4.6-liter Maserati V8. Gary doesn’t have enough money left to build that car, but is hoping being at the show will attract a corporate sponsor able to help him make his dream a reality.

We already have had a chance to get behind the wheel in our 2010 Honda Insight review and we've already done a design dissection of the 2010 Toyota Prius, we haven't yet seen how the two stack up against each other. For starters, it’s difficult to make this comparison as neither automaker's released full specs yet. However, we're still able to make some initial observations and in cases where we don't have all the details, we've tried to provide some good guesstimates.

Price: In both cars’ cases, we’re waiting on price. It’s rumored the Insight will retail for $18,500 while the current Prius goes for $22,000. The new one is larger, has a bigger engine and fancier technology. Will it cost more money? Advantage: Insight.

Size: The Insight is and entry-level vehicle, the Prius a mid-size. While the Insight is noticeably smaller, there’s less difference once you’re inside than you’d think. Nearly the same space in a smaller package? Advantage: Insight.

"Fun" Factor: Neither of these cars is going to drive like a Lotus Exige, but, believe it or not, the Insight is actually kind of fun and rewarding. We haven’t driven the 2010 Prius, but “fun to drive” is hardly a hallmark of Toyota’s current range. Advantage: Insight.

Fuel Economy: The Prius kills the Insight dead in estimated EPA fuel economy numbers, returning 50 MPG combined to the Honda’s 41 combined. Since both are estimates, we wouldn’t be surprised to see one or both of the cars rise or fall by a MPG or two when they’re officially certified. Advantage: Prius.

Just for fun, we’ve put together a chart to walk through all the salient details between the two "green" machines. We've also tossed in some other putatively green competitors — the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the 2009 VW Jetta TDI.

Click here for the 2010 Toyota Prius, 2010 Honda Insight By The Numbers Comparison

While seemingly not as exciting on paper, there really was still some fun sheetmetal being revealed on the Cobo Hall floor. Here's a brief run-down of the top-trafficked foreign, domestic, real, fake, gas-powered, electric powered, dream-powered, sporty, rugged and, in one case, smoke machine-equipped cars. Remember, your eyeballs chose them.

Below that, we've include all the rest of the reveals that didn't make the cut. So once you've walked through the eye candy in the top ten, hit the links at the bottom to see what else the automakers had goin' on here at Cobo Hall

10.) Toyota FT-EV Concept

Your eyes are not deceiving you, the Toyota FT-EV Concept is a version of the Toyota iQ, but lacking 1.5 seats and adding one lithium-ion battery pack in their place. While sized for Stuart Little, it'll likely be a huge success when a production version is launched in 2012.

9.) Revenge GTM-R

The Revenge GTM-R is a fully tricked-out version of the Factory Five GTM chassis, so it does all the work the GTM buyer would have to do themselves. The GTM-R boasts a GM supplied 427 cubic inch V8 good for 505 HP at 6300 rpm and 470 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm.

8.) 2010 Chevrolet Equinox

The all-new Equinox is just like the original, only better. A solid people mover, GM has improved engine and transmission choices while tweaking styling for an aggressive but paunchy look. The interior gets friendlier with plenty improved feel compared to it's predecessor. Think of it as a Malibu wagon, only well fed.

7.) 2010 Lincoln MKS

Lincoln is hoping buyers will sail past cars like the V8-powered Infiniti M45 to look at the Lincoln MKS, which they claim will offer best-in-class highway economy at 25 MPG, and the Lincoln's relatively more powerful V6. Whether or not this actually sways anyone to buy a car from a brand more associated with livery than with living good is another question.

6.) Lincoln C Concept

The Lincoln C Concept is packaged on Ford's global small car platform and brings luxury to a segment not normally associated with it. From a styling standpoint, the C wears cues started on the MKS and now carried through on both the MKT and the MKZ matched with what looks like the wackiest parts of Renault hatchback elements.

5.) Fisker Karma S Sunset

The Fisker Karma S is the world’s first plug-in hybrid convertible. Featuring a folding hardtop and virtually the same lines as the Fisker Karma production car, this is one sexy hybrid.

4.) Jalopnik GEM-Powered Detroit Auto Show Mobile Command Center

What is this mystery car? Why it's our very own Jalopnik GEM-powered Detroit Auto Show Mobile Command Center, and it's why we've had the fastest coverage at this year's show!

3.) 2010 Toyota Prius

Not only is the new Prius bigger and faster, but it’s more economical too. At 50 MPG the 2010 Toyota Prius will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle for sale in America.

2.) 2010 Toyota Camry

The unexpected reveal of the 2010 Toyota Camry and 2010 Toyota Camry Hybrid at the Detroit Auto Show has left many of us speechless. Speechless as in, we weren't really that surprised to see the next version of the number one selling car in America. The 2010 Camry is expected to go on sale in March.

1.) Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S

The Maserati Quattroporte is the original big-boys sedan, one providing both performance and comfort all wrapped in a beautiful Italian body. In order to keep up with the competition, Maser has released the Quattroporte Sport GT S, a new sportier 433 HP model, just in time to celebrate the 70th anniversary of their first Indianapolis 500 win.

Bonus from late Monday:

Volvo S60 Concept

Featuring Volvo's new "racetrack" design, the Volvo S60 Concept previews the newest safety and design features we expect to see on Volvos in the future.

While sitting in the extremely uncomfortable camp-style folding chairs, Brilliance Auto executives rambled on and on about how happy and proud they were to be in Detroit. At one point they even suggested that Brilliance would soon come to the U.S. though we think its as likely as former Detroit mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick, making a comeback run for Governor. They never actually talked about their products, rather impressed upon us soulless journalists how awesome they are. Though we disagree. Check out their Pininfarina-Giugaro, BMW sponsored, Porsche engineering-inspired, European 4-star crash test designed Brilliance Auto M1, M2, M3 and FRV. They're truly exciting.....Zzzzz.

Four Models Showed In Detroit
Brilliance Auto Seeking Development With Mutual Benefit and Win-Win
2009 North America International Auto Show was held ceremoniously in Detroit, Michigan, United States in Jan. 11th to 25th. Brilliance Auto Group, Chinese national brand main force, showed four models totally, including Brilliance M1, Brilliance M2, Brilliance M3, and Brilliance FRV. Brilliance Auto Group Vice President He Guohua and General Manager of Brilliance Jinbei International Sales Company Shan Long, etc. attended this activity together.
On the exhibition site, Brilliance brand four models forestalled its opponent by a show of strength, either fashionable, or gracious, or dynamic, attracting attention of many guests once appearing.M1, M2, and M3 equipped with Brilliance 1.8T engine, with its excellent power and stable handling, won unanimous appraisal of many guests on the exhibition site. Moreover, FRV, representing brand-new direction of Chinese automobile consumption, with its special appeal of “Big hatch-back”, attracted all people.
The reporter learned that, at present, Brilliance auto has models of Brilliance M1, Brilliance M2, Brilliance M3, Brilliance FRV, Brilliance Wagon, Jinbei Haise minibus, Jinbei Granse MPV etc., with products covering each and all markets of passenger vehicles. The domestic market sales volume of Brilliance brand has broke 280 thousand units. Haise, with sales volume of more than 800 thousand units, occupies half of the light bus market. Market sales volume of light trucks is the number four of the whole nation. Complete vehicle export will break 40 thousand units this year. While basing itself upon domestic market, with a view to global world, Brilliance auto actively carries out cooperation of international technology and market. At present, Export projects of Brilliance car to EU,Russia,Egypt etc. also constantly achieves material breakthrough. “3+1” international market export pattern of Brilliance auto in Europe, North America, Russia and other markets has primarily come into being.
The practice of China’s 30 years reform and opening proves that through active opening to outside, rapid development of Chinese auto industry was brought along. Rising Chinese auto enterprises more need to strengthen communication and intercourse with international auto circle in technical research and development, etc. and realize mutual benefit and win-win. Someone in charge of Brilliance Auto expressed that, it’s necessary for Brilliance Auto to participate in the global construction to promote market consumption standard, only in this way the purpose of mutual benefit and win-win can be realized. We hope that through this exhibition, we can strengthen the communication and intercourse with international auto circle, meanwhile, precious experience can be accumulated for development of Brilliance Auto.
Since 2007, Brilliance Auto has participated in many international auto exhibitions like North America auto exhibition, Paris auto exhibition, Genovese auto exhibition, Frankfurt auto exhibition, and Russia auto exhibition, etc. successively. On these international stages, Brilliance Auto opened a window for the world to know China, fully showed strength of Chinese automobile manufacturing standard. Just in the successful appearance in international auto exhibitions, Brilliance Auto further showed its confidence to actively participate in the global construction.

Each photo in the gallery has a description of the concept below it. Our favorite is the Soft Private Vehicle, although we’re a bit worried about getting our privates stuck in the zipper-cum-door. Next year’s theme is “Electrifying.” Think Chrysler will enter?

[via Michelin Design Challenge]

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