Jalopnik: Australia

Stuart Appleby's BMW M5 Ute, Now In Full Detail

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:20:00 EDT

It didn't take long after showing you the unveiling of Stuart Appleby's now finished BMW M5 Ute before reader Gustav hit us up with a link to Stuart's favorite hangout at M5Boards.com, where a raft of high-resolution images have been posted. These new shots confirm what we suspected: This is one lusty beast of custom-camino perfection. Some of the style may be a bit over-the-top, but remember this thing makes its home in Australia, so it has to fit in. While the M5 Ute hasn't hit the dyno yet or "tested the chassis," the builders are projecting grunt in the range of 460 HP. We hope Mr. Appleby maintains his relationship with Bridgestone as we imagine he'll require frequent replacements for those 275/30R20 rear tires. Many more images after the jump.

Australian BMW M5 Ute Finally Finished, Debuts At Deniliquin Ute Muster

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EDT

After nearly three years of construction and thousands of fevered prayers from camino enthusiasts, along with an equal number of curses from BMW fanboys, the BMW M5 Ute is finally complete. The super-ute debuted last weekend in New South Wales at the Deniliquin Ute Muster, the worlds largest gathering of vehicles that do business up front while partying in the back. The M5 Ute goes to professional golfer and apparent hoon artist Stuart Appleby, who commissioned the build and happily takes the keys, admitting it's “a bit out of left field.” This news raises three points.

First, we're conflicted by the idea of a golfer taking delivery of such custom-car awesomeness, but considering it was his dollars and dreams that made it so, he can't be a normal golfer. Second, we need complete detail images, performance specs, and burnout and hoonage videos, immediately. We're actually a little hurt the car didn't debut by power-sliding through a herd of kangaroos while leaping through a ring of fire. Finally, the Deni Ute Muster — how did we not know about this event? It's got a list of ten commandments (.pdf) which reads like every out-of-control tailgate party we've ever been to. And over 6,000 utes in one place! In Australia! Plane tickets. We need them. (Thanks for the tip Chris) [CarAdvice.au]

Australian Teen Crashes SUV Into Tree, Repeatedly, Attempting To Dislodge Koala

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EDT

Proving that the best intentions aren't always matched with the best actions, 19-year-old Brett Seabrook of Victoria, Australia attempted to help a koala he thought was injured by repeatedly ramming its tree with his Toyota Landcruiser. Apparently the incident began when the Aussie teen found the koala at his campsite and wrapped it in a blanket — which is sort of a nice way of saying he abducted it. After hanging out with the koala for a while, he released it into a tree. That's when the koala started making noises, worrying Seabrook and prompting a somewhat irrational series of responses.

According to The Age:

Wildlife officer Greg Chant, prosecuting for the Department of Sustainability and Environment, said when the koala began to make a loud noise, Seabrook tried to retrieve it by poking it with a stick.
Mr Chant said Seabrook then rammed the tree with his Toyota Landcruiser utility, which was witnessed by a number of nearby campers who alerted authorities.

Is that hoonage or insanity? We're leaning towards insanity, likely adolescence-induced. The teen was eventually arrested and charged with a variety of wildlife protection laws and has pleaded guilt to them, accepting a rather modest charge of $2,200.

[Source: The Age, Photo: China Photos/Getty Images]

Self-Abusing, Kangaroo-Blasting, Dope-Running Holden Driver Hassled By The Man In Australia

Murilee Martin — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:20:00 EDT

So you're taking the Holden Commodore SV6 out for a 93 MPH drive, you're firing your rifle out the window at passing kangaroos, and you've got five kilos of reefer in the trunk and a couple of pot plants in the back seat. Well, hell, at that point you might as well indulge yourself in a little bout of videotaped onanism, right? Sadly for Brendon Alan Erhardt, 39, the police disapproved of at least some of those activities, but at least they let Mr. Erhardt out on bail so he could marry his girlfriend. Thanks to 57Sweptside for the tip! [Northern Territory News]

Australian Motoring Group Calls For Fuel Consumption Standards, Finally Gets Plot Of Road Warrior

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Not content to end up in a punky post-apocalyptic world because of an energy shortage, a la the great Australian film The Road Warrior, the Australian version of AAA is requesting the government implement some sort of average fuel limits similar to our CAFE standards. The NRMA thinks the move could save the country 1.4 billion gallons of fuel a year, as well as drop costs for the consumer. Lacking these standards, the Australians have produced vehicles such as the V8-powered FPV Super Pursuit Ute and HSV Tourer. As an alternative they could just stop driving with Koalas in their grilles.

Said the NRMA president, "For too long, Australia's automotive industry has been allowed to play by its own rules, setting paltry voluntary targets and consistently building and importing cars that consume more fuel than their overseas counterparts." That's ridiculous; voluntary standards always work... [Drive.com.au]

Aussie Motorist Hits Koala, Koala Survives Only To Find Out It Has The Clap

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EDT

Ely 'Lucky' Grills, a Brisbane-area koala, came face to face with the grille of a Lexus at 62 MPH, and, aside from getting his head stuck in the grille, was no worse for wear after being removed by rescue workers. A passing motorist noticed the koala dangling limp from the front of the car and flagged down the driver, who had been unaware of Lucky's misfortune.

We've never been to the home of hoonage, so we don't really know what Australia's roadside fatality rate on koalas looks like. But we assume it's a lot like armadillos in Texas and raccoons in Michigan — rare in the city, but not uncommon out in the sticks. Gail Gipp, manager of the Sunshine Coast's Australian Wildlife Hospital, said of the little marsupial, "He just shook his head and started to come around. Being hit at that speed, it is amazing he survived. He just clung on. He has a lovely placid, relaxed nature and I think that definitely helped him."

Ely was taken to the Wildlife Hospital where it was discovered that, although he had suffered only ruffled fur, the koala had a case of Chlamydia and would need to be admitted to the hospital for several months of treatment. We didn't even know koalas could get the clap. Ya learn something new every day. (Thanks for the tip Brett) [The Age]

$2 Sticker To Combat Australian VIN Tampering

Andrew Stoy — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EDT

The Australians are fighting the menace of VIN number tampering with new VIN stickers that cannot be removed or altered without being destroyed, making vehicle reconstruction and title washing significantly more challenging. Although we're not sure what's bigger news here, the fact that a cheap $2 AUS decal can markedly deter car thieves, or that the Aussies call VIN tampering "rebirthing." Join us for a collective shudder, and the full ~~afterbirth~~ details after the jump.

Although we expect automakers to scream about the new sticker destroying profitability and requiring at least 10 years of development work to implement, we think the program makes some serious sense. In fact, the numbers we've seen peg the potential savings at $240 million US dollars. Not bad for a cost per-vehicle of just $1.90.

Apparently, some automakers have already recognized the writing on the wall. Hyundai is installing the new tamper-resistant stickers on its entire Australian fleet, and Subaru, BMW, Audi and Porsche all used them on at least some models, resulting in improved theft rankings from NRMA Insurance. This all sounds like the kind of thing our friends at Unique Performance would be solidly against...if, you know, they weren't going to jail.
[Drive.com.au; (Photo Credit: Insurance.com)]

DOTS-O-Rama Sunday: Holden Ute

Murilee Martin — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EDT

We've been receiving DOTS Bonus Edition photos at a rate faster than we can post them at the current pace, so today we're going to have a special Bonus DOTS-O-Rama Sunday, with a series of vehicles captured in the wild by our readers. Today's theme will be Down On The California Street, and the first machine is this Holden ute that Froggmann found in Anaheim. How many California cities can you name that started out as a German utopian colony, had an all-KKK city government, and then became the happiest place on earth? Just one! Make the jump to see all the photos and read Froggmann's description.

Last week while driving through my old neighborhood in Anaheim, CA, I saw this parked over in an industrial parking lot. Yes I know it's cheating but given the expiration date of the plate this car has not moved in a while (Expired in 94). It looks factory but I have been having a hard time finding an example online to verify. Anyways, onto what it is... THis appears to be an 84ish Holden Stateman Caprice. Basically a Aussieamino on US soil. This one appears to be pretty well optioned for a "truck" of its vintage but that just makes it a little bit cooler.

Aussie Ford FG Falcon Supercar Debuts, Kangaroos Unimpressed

Andrew Stoy — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 13:40:00 EDT

Despite claims that the car wouldn't be ready to race this year, Ford Australia's new FG Falcon "FG01" race car is scheduled to make its initial public appearance during the Sandown V8 Supercar Championship in Melbourne. The Falcon XR8-based race car will be making several appearance laps at Sandown, but won't be doing any actual racing. Ford claims the car may see its race debut at the Bathurst 1000 later this year which, if nothing else, is one of the best race names we hear all year. Watch out for the 'roos. Press release after the jump...

FORD'S NEW V8 SUPERCAR WEAPON HAS ARRIVED Ford's new FG V8 Supercar 'FG01' is set to roll form its current home at Ford Performance Racing (FPR) to the tarmac at Sandown this weekend, making its public debut at the Midas 400 in Melbourne.
Based on Ford's recently launched FG Falcon XR8 sedan road car, the new Blue Oval weapon will feature a striking 'Nitro' blue with white themed livery.

The FG01 prototype will reside in pit lane for the duration of the event, from where it will launch into a number of preview laps on the 3.1 kilometre circuit.

[Ford Australia Racing, drive.com.au]

Antique Analog Aussie Traffic Signals

Travis Hudson — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:40:00 EDT

No matter how much technological mumbo-jumbo is put into modern traffic signals, nothing will top these analog beauties of yesteryear. Used from the 1940s to the 1970s in Australia, these signals are much more efficient because you can tell how much longer you have to wait before commencing hoonage. Despite being relatively small, hard to see and pretty much useless at night, they're still fantastic for impatient drivers (like damn near all of us). Either bring these back or change the illuminated traffic light into an illuminated countdown number. Now there's a hell of an idea. [Infosthetics via Giz]

1986 Holden Astra: Know What I Mean?

Murilee Martin — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EDT

Back in 1980s Australia, those shopping for a suit of armor or heading to an 80s-flappers-on-coke costume party knew only one car would do: a GM-rebadged Nissan Pulsar! Yes, the Holden Astra (no relation to the later Opel of the same name), which came with a "long hatch floor" and- amazingly enough- a fuel filler door release inside the car. Clever little Astra!

Hypermiling Couple Sets World Record With 90 MPG Drive Around Australian Coast

Mark Arnold — Wed, 28 May 2008 09:20:00 EDT

Remember when we drove a European-spec Honda Civic 2.2 i-CTDi on a 100-mile road trip? We did pretty well, averaging 72 MPG. While we were throughly impressed, it was nothing compared to earning two spots in the Guinness Book Of World Records. Helen and John Taylor, a British couple, earned their two spots of fame in the record book of record books while Down Under in their little Peugeot 308 HDi. The first record was for "longest distance on a single tank," set by traveling 1192 miles on just 60 liters of diesel fuel — just 15.8 gallons. The other record, "highest mileage for a journey," was set by completing 9,062 miles at an average of 90.75 MPG. So how did they do it? What magical modifications were made?

Actually, the car was stock. Stock as in standard, from the factory, without any modifications besides the sponsors' stickers. That is, unless you count the extra weight of the couple's luggage as a modification. But that 90 MPG figure is in Imperial gallons. In US gallons, the figure is just 75.6 MPG. Still, it's figures like this that make us scratch our heads and wonder what all the fuss of government-mandated fuel economy standards, panic of rising gas prices, and hybrid hippie hype is all about. If things were really as bad as they're often made out to be, couldn't we all just be driving ~~90 MPG~~ 75 MPG French hatchbacks? Or are those Freedom hatchbacks? Oh, wait — you have to drive under 30 MPH the entire way? Well, screw that noise. Pass me the keys to the Hummer.
[ABG via TreeHugger]

Power For Towing Or Just Plain Easy Going: Holden Wagons!

Murilee Martin — Thu, 22 May 2008 13:20:00 EDT

Only Australians would make an early-80s station wagon advertisement that showed family-haulin' wagons getting sideways and backwards in hoonage sessions culminating in crazy jumps. We see the six- and eight-cylinder-equipped Holden Commodore and the (Cavalier-based) Holden Camira being put through some highly entertaining paces. Our only problem with this ad is the lack of wagons doing jumps with trailers attached.

Full Details On Ford Australia's Multi-Flavored FPV Falcon Lineup

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 14 May 2008 10:20:00 EDT

When Ford of Australia first announced their lineup of F6 FPV lineup we didn't pay too much attention to the various minor differences in the F6 Falcon lineup. Little did we know how far the Ford Performance Vehicle group was going to go in order to meet the needs of anyone with the cash to throw around $60,000+ USD on V8-powered goodness. Each vehicle in this range comes with the new 5.4-Liter Boss V8 good for 422 horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque mated to a ZF six-speed auto transmission or TR6060 six-speed manual gearbox. The GT is your basic high-performance sedan while the GT P takes it a couple of steps further. The GT E is at the upper extreme, offering similar performance without all the boy racer styling and colors for the hoon with a briefcase. Press release below the jump.

F6 Ford Falcon Lineup
Ford Performance Vehicles Reveals New Model Range

Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) today publicly unveiled its new performance GT and F6 sedans at the Melbourne International Motor Show.

"This is the first chance for the public to get a close-up look at some of our new models, ahead of their release in June," said Ford Performance Vehicles General Manager Rod Barrett.

"Our new model range offers performance enthusiasts the ultimate in performance engineering, luxury appointments and sports styling."

For the first time, the Ford badge will not appear externally on an FPV model. The GT and F6 sedans on display both feature FPV badges prominently on the centre grille and centre boot lid, which is consistent with the entire new range.

"Featuring the FPV badge on all our new models is a major repositioning for the FPV brand," said Barrett.

"It signifies the maturing of our brand and the evolution of FPV as Ford�s performance partner."

As with Ford, FPV has repositioned its high performance sedan and Ute model variants, with eight stunning vehicles divided into the GT series and F6 series families.

"The repositioning of the vehicle line-up has been done for similar reasons to the Ford
G Series," said Barrett.

"It is all about growing the brand and attracting new customers. The GT series family continues our strong iconic heritage, while the F6 series family caters to a new segment of performance car enthusiasts who prefer a slick turbo charged six-cylinder to a thundering V8."

The GT series family retains the familiar GT and GT-P sedan nameplates, and introduces the stylish new luxury GT-E sedan.

The bold exterior styling of the new GT and GT-P is highlighted by the trademark unique front grille treatment, rear wing, side striping and V8 bonnet bulge accented with a newly designed hood decal.

Visually, the new GT-E is distinguished from its V8 siblings by its refined rear lip spoiler, chrome accenting and distinctive GT-E badging.

The GT-E's unique 19-inch alloy wheels are matched by a premium brake package, with six-piston Brembo brakes now featured as standard.

"The GT-E is a sophisticated luxury performance car that will cater for those buyers that don't want the stripes, wings, and seats offered in the GT-P, however, want to retain all the performance attributes of that car," said Barrett.

The Super Pursuit and Pursuit Ute variants complete the GT series range.

The F6 series family features the F6 and F6 Ute, the Typhoon and Tornado nomenclature are discontinued on the new vehicles.

Significant ride, handling and safety advancements have been made to the new FPV stable. Each new model variant has been fully engineered and designed to provide the performance enthusiast with the ultimate in Australian performance motoring.

Safety advances include the addition of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on FPV sedan & Ute vehicles for the first time.

Significantly, FPV customers will also have a choice of manual or automatic transmissions at no additional cost in the sedan range.

"The option of automatic or manual transmissions in the sedan range at no extra cost caters for both our luxury and overt sports customers, without penalising either for their choice of transmission," said Barrett.

FPV has produced exhilarating performance upgrades across the GT and F6 range, however, the exact engine performance power and torque figures will be revealed closer to the on sale date in June.

"The unique FPV enhanced design gives each vehicle a bolder road presence," said Barrett.

"Coupled with performance upgrades, the new FPV range is a revolution in Australian performance motoring. I'm sure our loyal and passionate customers will be extremely impressed."

[Ford via World Car Fans]

The Mini Deluxe: She'll Like It Going Up And Down!

Murilee Martin — Tue, 13 May 2008 11:00:00 EDT

"No more sliding windows for Australians considering buying a Mini! Not only that, you can go into multiple spins on wet pavement and recover cleanly- it shows it right there in the ad! We're a little puzzled by the the conversation between the swimsuited man and woman at the beach; we get the "up and down" double entendre, but are we supposed to think that there's some longing for the old sliding Mini windows here?

Aussie Son Crashes Daddy's Ferrari 360CS

Mark Arnold — Mon, 05 May 2008 09:20:00 EDT

It's happened time and time again, and it will continue to happen until the end of days. A jumpy teenager has a crazy idea, perhaps induced by peer-pressure, to sneak the old man's car out for a late night joyride. As Jalops, we've likely all put ourselves in such a situation. In retrospect, we're able to look back at it as a right of passage into ~~man~~hoonhood, but for this Aussie boy, it may be a while before he will fully appreciate the accomplishment of crashing his dad's Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale, though never being able to see daylight may accelerate that process.
[via AOL] Hat Tip to Andy and Matt!

Nobody Outhustles The 1970 Hillman Hunter Hustler!

Murilee Martin — Thu, 01 May 2008 13:00:00 EDT

The Hillman Hunter was the Chrysler Europe machine that eventually became the Iran Khodro Paykan (and was related to many other British cars of its time). In 1970, Australians could buy themselves a rally-ized version called the Hustler, equipped with a twin-carb 1725cc engine, four-speed box, and one of the most bongo-riffic Sideburn Era ads we've ever seen. Here comes Hustler!

Wide Plains, Road Trains, A Whole New World Ahead Of Me: Toyota Of Australia

Murilee Martin — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EDT

American automakers aren't the only ones who play the bechmaltzed patriotism card in their ads, nor even the only ones who break out the mawkish country music in those ads. Here Toyota is letting Australians see how loving their land is the same as loving their Toyotas. It's not quite Morning In America, but it's striving for the same lump-in-throat effect.

Groovy Aussie Falcons And Fairlanes Must Go Go GO!

Murilee Martin — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 11:20:00 EDT

Apparently the wholesome singing-and-dancing advertisements Ford used for the '69 American models were so good that they recycled the same concept for their Australian ads the following year. The Aussie musicians and dancers are at least twice as hip as their American counterparts, but that's not saying much; Geetz Romo would likely judge them to be square with slightly rounded corners. Still, check out those Australian Falcons and Fairlanes, all destined for the Lord Humungus' motor pool!

Mazda3 MPS To Tackle Targa Tasmania

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 10:40:00 EDT

What happens when you take the already devilish Mazdaspeed3 (better known as the Mazda3 MPS there) and throw it into the challenging Targa Tasmania? Madness. The folks at Mazda Motorsport are bringing their hot hatch to the 2008 race to compete with the hot pink Nissan GT-R. Unlike other rallies, this race features cars that are mostly stock and include all of the electric systems and upholstery that came with the original car. We imagine this makes it a bit more comfortable for Alister McRae and his co-driver.

This will be the eighth race for Mazda and the second for the MPS rally car. The vehicle features the stock 2.3-Liter direct injection turbo fourbanger that's good for 255 horsepower, routed through a six-speed manual transmission. The race runs from April 15-20 and you should be able to follow the updates at Mazda Australia's Targa Site, if it updates. [Mazda via World Car Fans]

Aussie Man Safe After Dramatic Bridge Accident

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:40:00 EDT

There's an 18-year-old somewhere in Australia today who is in dire need of a new pair of undergarments. Police responded to the scene of an accident on the Fitzgerald Bridge in Raymond Terrace, Australia where a the man lost control of his Mitsubishi Magna and crashed through the guardrail. Instead of plummeting the 20 meters into the Williams River below, the car managed to get caught up on the railing, dangling precipitously from the side of the bridge. A quick thinking tow truck driver hooked the car to his truck and called for emergency assistance.

It took emergency workers an hour and twenty minutes to remove the man from the precariously perched Mitsubishi Magna, and he was taken to the hospital for shoulder injuries — no doubt caused by crashing into a guard rail then hanging by his seatbelt for an hour and twenty minutes. We can only imagine what kind of chafing that can cause. [Sydney Morning Herald]

Photo credit to Darren Pateman

They Say This Holden Kingswood Is A Bad Mother- Shut Your Mouth!

Murilee Martin — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EDT

You can bet your life on the early-70s Holden Kingswood's four coil springs and win with a jet-smooth ride... but will it cop out when there's danger all about? Looks like either Isaac Hayes made a deal with GM Australia or advantage was taken of some sort of copyright loophole. Either way, the Kingswood was the great way to move!

Bow that we've had to listen to some outback lounge singer's interpretation of Issac Hayes, we need to flush all memory of that experience from our minds with a dose of the real thing.

LS3 Goes Down Under: HSV To Build Higher Horsepower Hooning Machines

Ray Wert — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 07:45:00 EDT

It's not even Australia Day, but we're hearing GM's giving their high-performance team down under a gift of power. Holden's Special Vehicles team announced last night they'll be fitting the US-built LS3 engine across their range of E-Series and WM Grange vehicles. That's the same engine found in the base model of the new Corvette as well as the one found in the Australian-built Pontiac G8 GXP. So that means the new ClubSport R8, GTS, Senator Signature, Maloo R8 and WM Granges will see a power boost from the current 307 kW (412 HP) and 399 lb-ft of torque provided by the ol' and busted 6.0-liter LS2 to 317 kW (425 HP) and 406 lb-ft of torque with GM's new 6.2-liter hotness under the hood. More cost-savings on the high-end across GM's global business? Check. More hooning power? Check. Greater potential for said hooning power to drop in price stateside? One would hope. Full press release after the jump.

New LS3 engine to power HSV from April
Holden Special Vehicles today announced a running change to its award winning E-Series and WM Grange vehicles, with the new GM LS3 engine to be fitted across the range for cars on-sale from April.

The upgrade will see the ClubSport R8, GTS, Senator Signature, Maloo R8 and WM Granges power output rise to 317kW.

Managing Director Scott Grant said the new engine was a welcome upgrade to the range of vehicles from Australias luxury and performance car maker.

We know our customers want the latest and greatest technology in their cars, Scott Grant said.

The General Motors LS3 engine continues the HSV tradition of scouring the world for technological advancements to enhance the driving experience.

It is built by General Motors Powertrain in North America and is available in the current Chevrolet Corvette. It will also be the engine used in the new Pontiac GXP, to be built by Holden in Elizabeth from the end of 2008 and exported to the United States.

The HSV LS3 engine has a capacity of 6.2 litres, producing 317kW of power at 6000rpm and 550NM of torque at 4600 rpm, as fitted to the HSV range.

Despite the power output increase, the new engine will deliver a slight improvement in fuel economy for Maloo R8 and WM Grange, while the short wheel base models return figures of 14.5 litres per 100km, as opposed to 14.4ltr/100km for E-Series LS2, in automatic mode.

Production of the new LS3 range begins this month and is available in dealerships from April. Vauxhall s VXR8 and the CSV R8, sold in the United Kingdom and Middle East respectively, will also receive the LS3 engine in 2008. New Zealand launches the LS3 engine with a limited edition Murph pack themed ClubSport R8 and Maloo R8.

HSV have released a new colour palette to coincide with the engine upgrade and for the first time WM Grange and Senator Signature will be available in Red Hot. Automatic transmission coolers are standard across the upgraded range. HSV will also introduce a new 20 inch wheel option across its fleet, including Grange, Senator Signature and ClubSport R8.

The wheel is a $2500 option for those customers and a no-cost option for GTS and Maloo R8 performance pack purchasers. The running changes have also resulted in a new pricing schedule with average price increases of between 1.3% and 2.8%.

Mustang Aussie: Ford To Focus On The Falcon, Not So Much Mercury

Ray Wert — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:15:00 EDT

We hear this AM that Ford's taking a page directly from GM's Aussie-loving playbook. Bryce Hoffman of the Detroit News, who's never met a job he couldn't hand-le when it comes to Ford, is reporting they're looking at bringing the rear-wheel-drive Falcon platform up from down under to provide the basis for the next Ford Mustang. In addition to the muscular two-door, it'll also be used for new sedans from the Ford and Lincoln brands — replacements for the Crown Vic and Lincoln Town Car — both scheduled to meet their demise come 2011. The only problem is, Auto Week reported this same thing like umm, in January. So we've got a more important question that Bryce has seemingly left unasked.

So what about Mercury? Good question — we've no clue, but we haven't seen any new product from the brand all about the heat in quite some time (wait, sorry, we mustn't forget the refreshed 2009 Mercury Mariner). We've also not heard of any new product coming down the development line. Oh FoMoCo, where art your Mercury brand? Who cares really, as long as that rear-wheel drive sedan looks like the Interceptor we saw at the Detroit Auto Show last year. [via Detroit News]

Jackie Stewart Knows Death

Matthew DeBord — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EDT

The Formula One season gets started this weekend in Australia, so of course Jackie Stewart (number 8 on the top 100 F1 drivers of all time list) is talking. We were struck by how much...well, flat-out human carnage that the man has witnessed.

According to the story from The Sydney Morning Herald, Stewart won 27 times—but also saw 57 "close friends, colleagues and competitors" perish on the track. Yeesh. That's hard-core. Makes us appreciate the much-improved safety record F1 has racked up since the last driver lost it all: Ayrton Senna in '94.

Good racing this weekend, gentlemen. Good safe racing. [The Sydney Morning Herald]

Aussies Rack Up $5 Million In Cellphone Driving Fines

Travis Hudson — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 15:30:00 EST

You should be well aware of your own state's laws regarding use of cellphone while driving, but how about those Aussies? A recent report shows that police in Victoria have managed to wrangle approximately $5 million worth of revenue from silly drivers talking on the phone. They way the Aussies take the fines is an interesting one.

Upon being pulled over for driving while talking on the phone, the base fine is $145 that is paid on the spot. I'm not too sure how the legal system works down under, but damn, having to pay a fine of that magnitude on the spot sucks, really.

The $5 million comes from approximately 40,000 violators over the year. Don't think it is the Chatty Cathys doing all of the talking—men accounted for well over half the violations. Yes, 28,500 mates had to cough up $145, no questions asked. Now that's a fine. [Scopical] (Image)

Holden Ute Expands To Keep Up With Suburban Sprawl!

Murilee Martin — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:30:00 EST

Given the current QOTD, it seems only right to have an Aussie-themed Bonus Classic Ad Watch today, so here ya go! This ad sort of reminds us of Robert Crumb's History of America, with its small towns evolving into McMansion-filled edge cities and tiny utes morphing into somewhat larger versions. But, by God, the Aussies never stopped making cars with truck beds, while Los Norteamericanos cruelly shunned the once-beloved El Camino and Ranchero.

Ford Falcon Cobra, Now That's A Knife

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST

In honor of the Melbourne International Motor Show and the best Australian cars QOTD, our good friend Vintage_Racer has shared some photos of the Ford Falcon Cobra. This particular model is #349 of only 400 produced. How did the Cobra brand make it all the way to Australia? That's a funny story.

Ford was set to release a new XD Falcon hardtop in 1979 and was stuck with 400 shells for the 1978 two-door XC hardtops. Various plans were created, including one to create a Playboy edition. Eventually, Edsel Ford II chimed in and decided to market it as the ultimate American-looking street legal version that could possibly be holmogated for racing. Of course, what's more American that white-and-blue stripes and a gigantic Cobra logo? Offered with either the 351 or 302 Cleveland V8, this particular version seems to have the 302. Either way, it's a g'day when driving one of these around. [Wikipedia]

New FPV Lineup Leads Ford Attack On Aussie Muscle Market

Mark Arnold — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 11:20:00 EST

Don't think the Muscle Car Wars are only taking place here in America. Our Aussie brethren — the people who invented the word "hoon" — have themselves a bitter rivalry going strong for years; Holden HSV vs. Ford FPV. And with Ford's new FG Falcon, FPV has itself some new hardware to do battle with. The team at Ford Performace Vehicles doesn't want to release official numbers until the official launch in June, but we're expecting big power from both the turbo inline six and the 'Boss' V8 mills. Although rival Holden's weaponry is shared among GM's global empire with British Vauxhalls, American Pontiacs, and even Chevys in the Middle East, these Aussie Fords will stick to doing battle in their homeland. Though a few will probably sneak into the UK on the gray market, we won't see these FPVs on 'merican shores at all (come on Ford, think Mercury here!). Galleries below and full press release after the jump.

Ford Performance Vehicles Reveals New Model Range
Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) today publicly unveiled its new performance GT and F6 sedans at the Melbourne International Motor Show.

"This is the first chance for the public to get a close-up look at some of our new models, ahead of their release in June," said Ford Performance Vehicles General Manager Rod Barrett.

"Our new model range offers performance enthusiasts the ultimate in performance engineering, luxury appointments and sports styling."

For the first time, the Ford badge will not appear externally on an FPV model. The GT and F6 sedans on display both feature FPV badges prominently on the centre grille and centre boot lid, which is consistent with the entire new range.

"Featuring the FPV badge on all our new models is a major repositioning for the FPV brand," said Barrett.

"It signifies the maturing of our brand and the evolution of FPV as Ford�s performance partner."

As with Ford, FPV has repositioned its high performance sedan and Ute model variants, with eight stunning vehicles divided into the GT series and F6 series families.

"The repositioning of the vehicle line-up has been done for similar reasons to the Ford
G Series," said Barrett.

"It is all about growing the brand and attracting new customers. The GT series family continues our strong iconic heritage, while the F6 series family caters to a new segment of performance car enthusiasts who prefer a slick turbo charged six-cylinder to a thundering V8."

The GT series family retains the familiar GT and GT-P sedan nameplates, and introduces the stylish new luxury GT-E sedan.

The bold exterior styling of the new GT and GT-P is highlighted by the trademark unique front grille treatment, rear wing, side striping and V8 bonnet bulge accented with a newly designed hood decal.

Visually, the new GT-E is distinguished from its V8 siblings by its refined rear lip spoiler, chrome accenting and distinctive GT-E badging.

The GT-E's unique 19-inch alloy wheels are matched by a premium brake package, with six-piston Brembo brakes now featured as standard.

"The GT-E is a sophisticated luxury performance car that will cater for those buyers that don't want the stripes, wings, and seats offered in the GT-P, however, want to retain all the performance attributes of that car," said Barrett.

The Super Pursuit and Pursuit Ute variants complete the GT series range.

The F6 series family features the F6 and F6 Ute, the Typhoon and Tornado nomenclature are discontinued on the new vehicles.

Significant ride, handling and safety advancements have been made to the new FPV stable. Each new model variant has been fully engineered and designed to provide the performance enthusiast with the ultimate in Australian performance motoring.

Safety advances include the addition of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on FPV sedan & Ute vehicles for the first time.

Significantly, FPV customers will also have a choice of manual or automatic transmissions at no additional cost in the sedan range.

"The option of automatic or manual transmissions in the sedan range at no extra cost caters for both our luxury and overt sports customers, without penalising either for their choice of transmission," said Barrett.

FPV has produced exhilarating performance upgrades across the GT and F6 range, however, the exact engine performance power and torque figures will be revealed closer to the on sale date in June.

"The unique FPV enhanced design gives each vehicle a bolder road presence," said Barrett.

"Coupled with performance upgrades, the new FPV range is a revolution in Australian performance motoring. I'm sure our loyal and passionate customers will be extremely impressed."

Devaux Coupé: Retro-Coupe Lust Has a Name

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST

We stumbled on the Australian Devaux Coupé many moons ago, but because our ADD addled brains forgets faster than they remember, it's only now you get to see it as well. The Devaux takes it's styling from so many sources it's tempting to call it a mongrel, but that would be a betrayal of what we consider one of the best styled boutique cars in the world. Featuring a GM LS engine (could be a 6 or 7, we can't tell) riding in a fiberglass over steel chassis with a wheelbase stretching out for over nine feet, the luxo-liner certainly fulfills the boulivardier image.

Fancy brightwork and an interior a few notches above the fray, stainless steel suspension and classy 16"" wire wheels round out the Devaux. The only real weakness is the lack manual transmission, but then again, lazily cruising Sunday afternoons away don't really demand hand rowing the gears. [Deveaux Cars]

V8 Ford Falcon Supercar Tuned To Play Waltzing Matilda, Waltzing Matilda, Waltzing Matilda With Me

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:20:00 EST

The folks at JELD-WEN Motorsports have had a little extra time on the their hands this off season and have used that to make some interesting engine management adjustments. In addition to raking up wins in the Australian V8 Supercar series, this Falcon manages to play a simple version of the Australian folk tune. More proof that we need the 2008 Ford FG Falcons here in America. Did you hear that Mark Fields? Won't you let the Falcon go Waltzing Matilda with us? [V8SC via World Car Fans]

The Proton Jumbuck: A Ute For The Everyman

Matt Hardigree — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 17:45:00 EST

Aussie Envy Day at Jalopnik continues. We've brought you the R3 Satria, the FPV GT and the 2008 Ford FG Falcons. And while most of these cars are drool-worthy, not everyone can afford to shell out that kind of cash. For the Ute-lover on a budget there's the Malaysian built Proton Jumbuck, which can be had for slightly under $14K (USD). For all that scratch you get a little Ute with a five-speed manual transmission, FWD, a 1.5-liter inline-four and a bizarre name.

While it won't be ripping up pavement like the Falcon or Holden Utes, it is thousands and thousands of dollars cheaper than either domestic offering. Plus, where are you going to find an SSV Ute that gets 40 mpg combined mileage?

FPV Announces Next Generation Of Hoontasitc Falcons

Matt Hardigree — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 10:15:00 EST

That didn't take long. Right on the heels of Ford releasing information about their 2008 Ford Falcons, the lads and ladies at Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) have announced that their tuned versions of said Falcons are right around the corner. Though total performance details are scarce, we do know that the new round of models will include tuned versions of the I6 turbo and a V8, which is probably the Boss 5.4-liter V8. The model range will include the following: GT Series, GT-E, GT-P, GT, Super Pursuit, Pursuit, F6 Series, F6 Sedan, F6 Ute. Press release below the jump.

FPV Announces New Model Range
Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) today officially unveiled a selection of its highly anticipated new Falcon-based range, lifting the covers off the latest evolutions of its performance GT sedan, F6 sedan and Super Pursuit Ute.
"Today we have given the public a glimpse of a new era in Australian performance motoring," said Ford Performance Vehicles General Manager Rod Barrett.

"Our new model range offers performance enthusiasts the ultimate in performance engineering, luxury appointments and sports styling."

For the first time, the Ford badge will not appear on FPV models. The new-look FPV vehicles will feature FPV badges prominently on the centre grille and centre boot lid.

"Featuring the FPV badge on all our new models is a major repositioning for the FPV brand," said Barrett.

"It signifies the maturing of our brand and the evolution of FPV as Ford's performance partner."

As with Ford, FPV has repositioned its high performance sedan and Ute model variants, with seven stunning vehicles divided into the GT series and F6 series families.

"The repositioning of the vehicle line-up has been done for similar reasons to the Ford G Series," said Barrett.

"It is all about growing the brand and attracting new customers. The GT series family continues our strong iconic heritage, while the F6 series family caters to those performance car enthusiasts who prefer a slick turbo charged six-cylinder to a thundering V8."

The GT series family retains the familiar GT and GT-P sedan nameplates, and introduces the stylish new luxury GT-E sedan.

The bold exterior styling of the new GT and GT-P is highlighted by the trademark unique front grille treatment, rear wing, side striping and V8 bonnet bulge accented with a newly designed hood decal.

Visually, the new GT-E is distinguished from its V8 siblings by its refined rear lip spoiler, chrome accenting and distinctive GT-E badging.

The GT-E's unique 19-inch alloy wheels are matched by a premium brake package, with six-piston Brembo brakes now featured as standard.

"The GT-E is a sophisticated luxury performance car that will cater for those buyers that don't want the stripes, wings, and seats offered in the GT-P; however want to retain all the performance attributes of that car," said Barrett.

The Super Pursuit and Pursuit Ute variants complete the GT series range.
The F6 series family features the F6 sedan and F6 Ute - the Typhoon and Tornado nomenclature are discontinued on the new vehicles.

Significant ride, handling and safety advancements have been made to the new FPV stable. Each new model variant has been fully engineered and designed to provide the performance enthusiast with the ultimate in Australian performance motoring.

Safety advances include the addition of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on FPV sedan & Ute vehicles for the first time.

Significantly, FPV customers will also have a choice of manual or auto transmission at no additional cost.

"The option of auto or manual transmission at no extra cost caters for both our luxury and overt sports customers, without penalising either for their choice of transmission," said Barrett.

FPV has produced exhilarating performance upgrades across the GT and F6 range, however the exact engine performance power and torque figures will be revealed closer to the on sale date in June.

"The unique FPV enhanced design gives each vehicle and a bolder road presence," said Barrett.

"Coupled with performance upgrades, the new FPV range is a revolution in Australian performance motoring. I'm sure our loyal and passionate customers will be extremely impressed."

GT Series
GT-E
GT-P
GT
Super Pursuit
Pursuit
F6 Series
F6 sedan
F6 Ute

[Source: FPV via World Car Fans]

World's First RHD Ford GT

Mark Arnold — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:30:00 EST

The Ford GT is unquestionably a great car for hooning. But hey, what to do if you're an Aussie hoon wanting to get some GT goodness legalized for road use Down Under? Well, Ford never offered a right-hand-drive version for such markets, so you're going to have to have it converted over to RHD yourself. Which hadn't been done at all until now. Even though the GT came out a while ago as a 2005 model, this is the world's first RHD conversion. Surely you'd think some plucky British GT owner like Jeremy Clarkson would've demanded RHD, but since the UK is so close to continental Europe, it's not illegal to drive a LHD car on British roads. However, for most Aussies, unless you've find some legal loophole, you operate your vehicle on the right. Which again raises the question: Why hasn't there been a RHD conversion before? Well...

Price, plain and simple. If you want to buy this RHD Ford GT from Mustang Motorsport, we hear that it would cost you over $500,000AUD. Our calculator says that's about $452,000USD. But don't raid the retirement fund or rob a bank just yet, because word on the street is that they've already pre-sold the planned run of five cars.
[via Australian Ford Forums]

Remember the BMW M5 Ute? Time for a Progress Report

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 13:45:00 EST

It's been quite a while since we brought you coverage of the greatest ute project the world has ever seen. The Postfather himself first broke the M5 Ute way back in December 2006, but in the interim, work has been steadily progressing. As it currently stands, the bed and tailgate have been fabricated, all the sheet metal refitted, cabin enclosed, massive new wheels fitted, and all the necessary electronic gadgetry relocated under a Ridgeline-like bed trunk thing. It looks like they may even be playing with the idea of some kind of aftermarket hood. We can't wait for this thing to be done so we can witness joygasm-inducing Bruce-amino burnouts. What's that you say? Video tour of the car below the fold? Don't mind if I do.

[M5Ute.com]

Monster Motorbike - Now With Crushing Video

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 14:00:00 EST

You know, pictures never really convey the awesomeness of at thing quite like video can. After seeing the "Monster Motorbike" this morning, we felt some intrepid videographer had to have commited video to the web - and they have! Check out this short video of the 25 foot long crushcycle in action at an event in Perth. This is the kind of thing that never ends well.

Monster Motorcycle To Appear At Aussie Car Show

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 11:15:00 EST

We got a little out of hand with the monster vehicles the other day, but Aussie Ray Baumann has gone straight bonkers. His creation, the Monster Motorbike, is a 13 ton, 9 meter tall, Detroit Diesel powered crushing machine, it's also, obviously, a motorcycle. Ray will be hooning his super cycle at the Melbourne International Motor Show which starts on February 29th by way of crushing things for fun. Apparently this madman has also cast himself in Evel Kneivel's image and jumps things, having broken his back - twice - by doing so. On his appearance at the show, Baumann says:

"We did stunt driving for quite a few years, broke a few records and broke my back a few times, so this is a way of taking a bit more care, now we crush things, which is definitely less risky than jumping them - we still do jump things, but not at the Melbourne Motor Show."

We salute you, Mister Crazy-Assed-Aussie-Super-Hoon, today's real Jalopnik hero. Our only question is - why the hell do we get stuff like cattle stampedes and not giant death machine motorcycles crushing things? Not fair.

Aussies Invent UltraBattery, For Ultra Hippies

Travis Hudson — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 15:00:00 EST

You know, everything is usually better when you put ultra- in front of the name, except in the case of alternative energy automotive technologies. UltraBattery? Are you kidding me? Is that really the name? UltraBattery is the work of a team of researchers at Australia's national science agency. The "ultra" aspect of this battery is its ability to out-ast traditional battery systems. And despite how much I rag on its name, the technology isn't too shabby.

It works by combining the tried and true lead-acid battery with supercapacitors. These UltraBatteries are capable of quickly charging and releasing energy over millions upon millions of cycles, with little to no battery degeneration. A Honda Insight outfitted with an UltraBattery completed a 100,000 mile track test in Britain, running on the battery alone. In addition to the increased lifespan, the batteries reportedly provide 50-percent more power and are 70-percent cheaper than the current nickel metal-hydride batteries used in hybrids and other electric vehicles.

If you want to put on your Negative Nancy cap, one downside is that the battery pack added an additional 37 pounds to the curb weight of the Insight. That UltraBattery must be one huge biotch. [Autopia]

Aussies Declare Hyundai i30 the Greenest Green Greenie in All the Land

Travis Hudson — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:45:00 EST

It seems that in the Land Down Under the Trev has quite a bit of work ahead of itself. The Hyundai i30 was recently crowned the greenest mobile in all the land, in addition to the overall 2007 Car of the Year in Oz by carsguide. Wait a second! The greenest car in Australia isn't a hybrid?

Negative. But who needs a hybrid when you have an i30 with a 1.6-liter turbo diesel that is reportedly capable going 62 miles on 1.23 gallons of fuel? Another big factor in the selection process that eliminated all of the hybrids was simple economics. The judges smacked them down for having high initial cost premiums, especially compared to the $21,490 i30 price tag, which is $16,000 cheaper than the Prius. [TH]

Killer Wasps In Your Toyota: Why The Metric System Sucks

Murilee Martin — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST

OK, we'll admit that the metric system is the way to go when you're, say, plotting orbital trajectories for the Mars Climate Orbiter and other science-heavy stuff. But when you're talking about the power output of an internal combustion engine, we want to hear galloping hooves, dammit! None of this kilowatt nonsense. Here we see what happens when the Toyota RAV V6 gets marketed using the wrong kind of unit of measurement in Mad Max Land. We're giving extra points for the nice "Oh, What a Feeling" jump at the end.