First, he’s bought himself one of the fastest trackday toys in the world for a relatively low price. For just $150,000 (plus significant running costs) he’s guaranteed to be the fastest driver at any track. At least he’d better be. Purchasing just three laps in an F1 car can cost in excess of $5,000.

Also, as a collector’s vehicle, the SA06 represents an interesting footnote in F1 history. It was the team’s first development of the Arrows A23 chassis that they purchased from ex-Minardi boss Paul Stoddart. At the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix, Sato took it to an impressive 10th place, setting the race’s seventh fastest lap. Power was provided by a Honda RA806E 2.4 V8.

Super Aguri was founded by former F1 driver Aguri Suzuki and competed from 2006 until earlier this year. [Autosport]

"I'm very sorry, this is something not in my character. Driving fast should only be done on a track"

Not in his character? What about racing a taxi to the airport? Or is it different because he was driving an Audi convertible this time? [Bild via AxisOfOversteer]

While we don't have an image of the Harley, the Big Hog Daddy gets some snazzy blue flame paint which carries through to the gauge cluster, Harley badging, and the ubiquitous Harley leather on the inside. Also optional: tightly wrapped head bandannas, brain-bucket helmets and a hardcore, weekend-warrior attitude.

2009 F-SERIES SUPER DUTY GROWS CAPABILITY WITH INDUSTRY-EXCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGIES, FEATURES

* Ford F-Series Super Duty, America's most capable work truck, offers more standard capability for 2009, including an integrated trailer brake controller and trailer tow mirrors on select models.

* Ford Work Solutions is a collection of industry-first, affordable technologies available on 2009 F-Series Super Duty XL, XLT and FX4 trucks that will provide customers connectivity, flexibility and security to better run key aspects of their business - from their Ford truck, even on the job site.

* New 'Built Ford Tough' factory-applied spray-in bedliner, available on 2009 F-Series Super Duty pickups, delivers exceptional weather resistance and protection against gouging, scratching, cracking and chipping.

The 2009 F-Series Super Duty line of pickups, the industry's most capable full-size heavy-duty work trucks, come equipped with even more capability, thanks to new standard features and two new packages - a Cabela's FX4 for the outdoor enthusiast and for the first time, a Harley-Davidson™ F-450 pickup.

All four Super Duty trim levels - XL, XLT, FX4 and Lariat - come with new standard features. The XL, the no-frills workhorse version, now comes standard with air conditioning, Securilock and manual trailer tow mirrors.

The XLT, a step up from the XL, now has power-heated trailer tow mirrors, privacy glass, integrated trailer brake controller, remote keyless entry and Securilock as standard features.

For 2009, the FX4 adds standard PowerScope™ integrated power-fold, power-telescoping mirrors, power seats, privacy glass, integrated trailer brake controller, captain's chairs and SIRIUS satellite radio.

The most luxurious of the Super Duty lineup, Lariat adds all of the new FX4 standard content as well as the reverse camera system, a power sliding rear window, heated seats, molded running boards and SYNC, Ford's industry-first, voice-activated hands-free communications and entertainment system.

New Smart Technologies

Ford is further expanding its 'smart' features for truck customers by equipping its trucks with new technologies that make staying connected and getting the job done easier.

* SYNC is Ford's industry-first, voice-activated hands-free system that fully integrates mobile phones and most media players into the vehicle using Bluetooth technology and USB connectivity.

* Voice-Activated Navigation System with SIRIUS Travel Link™ offers a host of convenient features including more than 150 hours of music storage and a collection of data services including real-time local traffic, coast-to-coast weather conditions and fuel price information for more than 120,000 gas stations. Users can browse the music juke box via touch-screen or by using voice recognition. The system also integrates the climate control and SIRIUS satellite radio into one easy-to-use, smudge-resistant, 8-inch touch-screen display.

* Ford Work Solutions, a collection of industry-exclusive technologies for F-Series trucks and commercial E-Series vans will help make business owners more productive and successful. Four industry-exclusive innovations include:

o An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and navigation by Garmin.

It's the first broadband-capable in-dash computer in production. It features available wireless accessories including a mouse and printer. This system allows customers to print invoices and access and send documents stored on their home or office computer networks - right on the job site.

o Tool Link, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset-tracking system developed with DEWALT, the industry leader in professional power tools, and ThingMagic, the industry expert on embedded RFID technology. This enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the vehicle.

o Crew Chief, a fleet telematics and diagnostics system, which allows small fleet owners to efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records.

o Cable Lock security system developed in partnership with Master Lock®, the industry-leading lock manufacturer, to secure large tools or equipment in the cargo area of E-Series vans and wagons.

All four Ford Work Solutions technologies also will be available this fall on the new 2009 Ford F-150 XL, STX, XLT and FX4 trucks and E-Series vans. Transit Connect vans join the lineup in mid-2009.

Cabela's FX4

Ford is expanding its relationship with Cabela's, the world's largest outdoor outfitter, by offering a new Cabela's FX4 package for 2009.

According to customer data, 76 percent of F-Series buyers hunt and fish. With F-Series serving as the official truck of Cabela's for the past 7 years - and trucks prominently placed at stores nationwide and featured in Cabela's publications and TV programming - there's no more authentic way to connect with customers.

The Cabela's FX4 package for 2009 features a unique two-tone paint scheme in five colors: Ebony, Oxford White, Forest Green Metallic, Royal Red Metallic and Silver Metallic.

Each is contrasted with Sterling Grey Metallic lower body accents, running boards and wheel lip moldings, finished off with custom mud flaps and unique Cabela's badging.

The interior features standard cloth seats with the Cabela's logo or available aniline leather seats with a unique two-tone embossed grain pattern. The center stack is finished with a dark Paldeo wood appliqué. All-weather floor mats also wear the Cabela's logo. And for the avid outdoor enthusiast, additional lockable storage in the front console and underneath the rear seats is perfect for keeping equipment secure and out of sight.

Harley-Davidson™ F-450

Ford and Harley-Davidson team up again for a new Harley-Davidson™ F-450, the "Big Hog Daddy" of the road.

As with the still available F-250/350 SRW models, each individually numbered Harley-Davidson™ F-450 features a unique blue-flame paint scheme that starts at the side vents and runs down to the box side of the truck. The flame design scheme is carried through to the interior gauges in the instrument panel.

The custom-perforated black leather-wrapped seats, door panels and center console cover reveal blue leather underneath giving the same blue-flame effect as the exterior. Harley-Davidson™ badges are visible on the fenders and tailgate, along with "Harley-Davidson" script located on the box side.

Tough Bed

Ford is offering Tough Bed, a unique, military-grade, factory-installed, spray-in bed liner for the first time on the 2009 F-Series Super Duty.

"Tough Bed is a smart solution for Ford Super Duty customers who want to better protect their most important asset - the pickup box," said Tom Aubrey, Ford F-Series Super Duty marketing manager. "Like the entire truck, Tough Bed stands up to the most stringent durability standards including those required by the U.S. Military - that definitely makes it 'Built Ford Tough.'"

According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), installation of spray-in bedliners grew from 27 percent in 2004 to nearly 34 percent of all pickup trucks in 2006 and will continue to grow at a steady rate to nearly 40 percent in 2008.

Developed in partnership with PPG Industries, Tough Bed exceeds the standards of today's typical aftermarket spray-in bedliner solutions. This military-grade coating has been through the government's toughest blast mitigation testing to determine whether the material can with stand the force of a bomb blast. It has performed equal to or better than other protective coating systems at one-third the thickness.

The polyol-based elastomeric film and isocyanate hardener are applied to the pickup box by a precision, high-pressure, automated sprayer to ensure one thin, smooth, even coat - unlike the traditional hand-spray application of aftermarket bed liners.

The finer application ensures that the bedliner materials won't run or sag on the inside walls of the box in addition minimizing unnecessary weight. Tough Bed does not compromise Super Duty's class-leading cargo capacity or the installation of aftermarket assets such as tool boxes, tonneau covers and truck caps. Its uniformly textured surface also helps minimize load slippage while delivering an exceptionally clean appearance.

The special bedliner material formula is immune to the effects of ultraviolet radiation and will not fade or chalk. It also protects against physical damage to the pickup box such as gouging, scratching, cracking and chipping. It is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile factory limited warranty.

All F-Series Super Duty models are built at Ford's Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Ky.

[via FSeriesTrucks.com]

"The mechanic suffered an electric shock after touching the sidepod and steering wheel of the car. There was a high frequency AC voltage between these contact points, the cause of which has been traced back to the KERS control unit and a sporadic capacitive coupling from the high-voltage network to the 12-volt network. The voltage ran through the wiring of the 12-volt network to the steering wheel and through the carbon chassis back to the control unit."

See, we told you: Magic. [F1-Live]

"The high-end vehicles that are allowed are plush with amenities and covers on the back. It doesn't look like a pickup. It's fancier."

They even allow the Lincoln Mark LT, which is just an F-150 with a nicer grille and chrome.

This may not be a big deal in Greenwich, Glencoe or Grosse Pointe, but this is the reason why Texas has concealed handgun laws. We sympathize with Mr. Greenwood's frustration

"If we had a big Hummer, that could be in the driveway. If we had a Lincoln Mark LT, that could be in the driveway. But a Ford F-150 can't. That doesn't make sense."

We'll follow up on the story when someone gets shot. [Dallas Morning News]

Ford claims to have re-engineered the number three crossmember, allowing it to provide more torsional and lateral rigidity, providing the extra strength needed for the increased rating. And we're not surprised Ford is crowing about it: With the importance of contractor and work-truck sales in the face of a diminishing consumer pickup market, capability is again going to be the deciding factor in a lot of truck purchases. [PickupTrucks.com]

So who actually won? That would be Lewis Hamilton they're thinking of. The McLaren Mercedes driver may be a household name in his native Britain, but apparently not so much in Hungary. Some things just get lost in translation apparently. [GridCrasher via Low Gearing]

It says something about Alameda that a solid 38-year-old Ford pickup doesn't even seem all that special at first glance; you see them all over the place here.


For the base '70 F250 Custom pickup, you paid $2,780 and got a 150-horse six-cylinder engine. The Camper Special package added big mirrors, heavy-duty alternator and cooling system, and some extra gauges. You could get the 300 six or your choice of V8s in 302-, or 360-, or 390-cubic-inch displacements if you started eyeballing the options list.


This truck appears to have the Boxwood Green two-tone paint job; the "Custom" badging went on all the non-platform/stake F250s that year.

It's hard to tell exactly what mechanical modifications, if any, are on this special Ferrari. The wheels appear to be identical to those on the 430 Scuderia, so the engine may be the Scuderia's up-powered 510 HP V8. Of course, if the owner really wants more power, he could always bolt-on a Novitec Rosso twin-supercharger kit, but that's not really the point here. Whoever commissioned this creation was probably more interested in turning heads than turning laps.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: All hail the era of random Ferraris lapping the Fiorano track as more buyers with the bucks to spend make the decision they'd like something special of their very own. [via Autoblog.nl]

The group of hoon-igans reportedly rented the cars for just under $10,000 apiece from Pearl Rentals of Wembley. The Sun claims the story is as follows:

"a sharp-suited group of Asian-looking men...wrecked a Ferrari on Saturday after smashing into another of the cars. The Lamborghini — one of three rented — was totaled when it hit a tree in Bridgnorth, Shrops, on Sunday."

Amid all the mashed-up metal, supposedly an Audi R8 escaped unscathed. New luxury triumphs again, apparently.

We're also told UK cops are still trying to find the drivers and other accomplices. So, if you're in the UK and you spot a group of "Asian-looking men" wearing ruffled, yet still quite sharp, suits walking down the side of the road. Be sure to call your local constable.

[The Sun]

"While many might still groan at a GT500KR that can transform on-the-fly into an F-150, Thompson talked to futurists at Microsoft to find some grounding in reality. Their meetings discussed what cars and trucks might be like in 2030. "They (Microsoft futurists) talked about vehicles being able to maneuver between smaller spaces, meaning it would have to squeeze itself, or it would grow larger or grow bigger wheels to get over a large obstacle. I thought, 'Wow, if these guys are already thinking about this now, then we need to be looking at this.'"

It looks like KITT's new off-road program will become a regular part of Knight Rider. Thompson says we'll see it in two of the first four episodes. There might be other modes on the horizon, too. "As long as we stay within about the same mass, you might see other versions of KITT," says Thompson. "You're not, however, going to see it turn into a huge spaceship," Thompson tells us."

Now we're only left wondering when Ford comes out with a special "Knight Rider" edition F-150. Like the Harley-Davidson version, we're assuming the truck bed won't be big enough to hold KITT. Also, note the Shelby cobra that's part of the TV show's logo. We wonder how many ads Ford had to buy to get that level of a boa constrictor-like grip on the creative process? [Knight Rider]

Essentially, HEVT has fitted all the systems necessary to turn the F-150 into a parallel plug-in hybrid. Mounted behind the rear differential is an electric motor capable of 200 ft-lb of torque, while a stack of batteries is located in place of the crew-cab seats. A regenerative braking system is also fitted, as is a system enabling the engine to charge the batteries and for the engine to be uncoupled from the driven wheels. HEVT's own electronics and software package, called the Adaptive Control Unit, keeps all these goodies running in harmony, and the interior is equipped with a Prius-style display so drivers can monitor their power usage. The really clever thing is that this technology is somewhat universal, requiring minimal modification to work in other gas-guzzlers.

HEVT claims the technology needed is cheap enough that, when combined with the fuel savings, retrofitted vehicles will actually save money across their lifetimes. We'd like to see a final price, but if this is true it could be a great solution for the countless existing individual and corporate owners of large trucks, enabling them to upgrade to a considerably more fuel-efficient vehicle without actually buying a new one. That's a double-win for spotted owls and wallets alike...if this technology comes to market in any usable form.

San Jose, July 22, 2008 - Hybrid Electric Vehicle Technologies, Inc. (HEVT) unveiled the world's first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the popular Ford F-150 pickup truck at Plug-In 2008 Conference and Exposition, the first international plug-in conference and expo. Converted with a proprietary adaptive controller and using a scaled-down version of the proprietary drive train HEVT has designed for transit buses, the F-150 has been transformed from a standard combustion engine vehicle getting about 16 MPG to a PHEV getting up to 41 MPG for a typical day's driving.

The HEVT prototype was displayed during today's keynote address by Dr. Andrew S. Grove, former chairman of Intel Corporation. "Trucks, SUVs and vans are the least-efficient vehicles on the road, so retrofitting them should be a high priority if we want to make a meaningful, near-term difference in oil consumption. Rapid commercialization of prototypes like HEVT's is the way to go," Dr. Grove said.

The prototype shows how HEVT's plug-in hybrid drive train technology can retrofit existing PSVs (pickups, SUVs, and vans), to displace gasoline with electricity, cutting operating costs and harmful emissions and boosting performance. This is an important step toward energy security, because it reduces the fuel required to operate trucks and other large vehicles.

"One way to reduce fossil fuel use is to find ways to plug in some of the hundreds of millions of internal combustion engines already on the world's roads," said CalCars founder Felix Kramer. "The pioneering PHEV designs for trucks and buses from Dr. Ali Emadi and his team at HEVT are especially promising."

Engineers at HEVT have developed a sophisticated electronics and software system called the Adaptive Control Unit (ACU) which serves to control the hybrid drive train. While driving, the ACU controls use of the electric motor and gasoline engine to optimize fuel economy and performance. An in-dash display unit monitors performance, indicating the charge remaining in the battery pack and the energy recovered through regenerative -braking.

"HEVT's solutions apply to not just smaller passenger cars and hybrids, but almost any vehicle including larger gas guzzlers," said HEVT founder Ali Emadi. "Our laboratory simulations show that the larger the vehicle, the greater the benefits - in gas costs, particulate and greenhouse emissions, and sound pollution. For this reason we are currently focused on PSVs and will later expand to school buses as well as transit buses."

HEVT will begin with a small pilot program of Ford F-150 pickup truck conversions available to organizations and individuals on a custom basis. The pilot program will help HEVT's continued development and optimization, pushing conversion costs down and lowering lifetime cost of ownership for converted vehicles.

As you may (or may not) know, I'm a factory rep for an Import Truck Distributor, and one of my dealers in the New York region is Jim Reed. He is a minor legend in NASCAR (when they actually drove real Stock Cars, not fake ones). Here is a small biography of Jim when he was racing.



Anyway, today was nearly perfect weatherwise, so I convinced Jim to let me take pictures of two of his prized vehicles. I'll start out with a Beige 1941 Lincoln Zephyr V-12 Club Coupe. The 1941 Model used a 292 Cu. In Flathead V-12, linked to a 3 Speed Manual. This car is equipped with a Borg Warner Overdrive, giving the car the ability to cruise over 75 MPH with no problems. Jim owned this car over 4 years, and during that time he has built it up to be a driver, not a trailer queen (as you can see, it is currently registered in New York, and is driven an average of 3,000 miles a year. The car was in rather poor condition when purchased, and was a Dark Brown color. The V-12 has been rebuilt, including a performance camshaft, the Chrome was all re-plated, the O/D was rebuilt, and even though the sheet metal was relatively rust free, it was refinished in it's current light sandstone finish. The interior was refinished two years ago, with a special seat cover made to keep the seats in good condition, since Jim uses it as a real car, and transports his Jack Russell terrier Bocci with him when he comes to work. The work took over 3 years to get into it's current condition, with the engine taking over a year just to get running again.

Ok, some details about the photos. Take a look at the floor pedals. There is a high/low beam switch to the left of the clutch, and a Radio Station Changer button right between the Clutch and the Brake pedals. Notice the Art Deco details, including the Bumpers, the Tail Lights, and the Zeppelin shaped turn signals. The "wood" (used on top of the doors, and the dashboard) isn't wood, but hand painted to look like wood. Take a look at the dash, and you will see a hood release, one of the very first offered in any car at the time. On the outside, the hubcaps let you know this was a Lincoln V-12, as does the chrome stip on the hood. Now take a look at the twin carbureted V-12. Isn't that a thing of beauty? I drove this beautiful car short distance, and would love to do it again.



Now, let me introduce you to the 1937 Cord 812. Cord pioneered front wheel drive in production applications with the L-29 in the late 20's. The A-C-D company then created a "Baby" Duesenberg which became in 1936 the Cord 810 with front wheel drive, Lycoming V8 power and a legendary body design from Gordon Buehrig. A year later, in 1937, came modest changes as in this distinctive example of the beautiful Beverly 4-door sedan body style. Finished in green with green cloth interior, the car is used as a driver, and not as a trailer queen. Jim uses this car for about 1,500 to 2,000 miles a year, and he just completed a round trip to an Auburn, Cord, Dusenberg club meet. This car was purchased a couple of years ago through a Hemmings ad. Since Jim took possession, there has been some improvements made, including new wheels and wheel discs, hubs, joints, brakes, tires, and other special features. The Shift controls were thoroughly rebuilt with new servos and micro switches.

A bit of history. The 289 Cu In V-8 was made by Lycoming, and it's actually installed backwards, since this car was Front Wheel Drive. The transmission was also unique, as it was the 4-speed manual with helical-cut gears and Bendix "Electric Hand" vacuum-servo pre-selector remote control. The Pre-selector always proved to be problematic, and this car was no exception.

Now, some of the photos. Take a look at that aircraft inspired dashboard, with a full set of instrumentation. Notice the two cranks at each side. Those are used to raise and lower the headlamps. This is one of the first cars to use a full wheelcover, instead of hubcaps (notice how these are tied on using zip ties!). The shift lever is the pre-selector. Now take a look at those trunk locks, heavy, and well made. The Art Deco details abound. Under the hood is that Lycoming V-8, and take a look at how the exhaust is routed! In front of the radiator is the Bendix Electric pre-selector shifting mechanism. Notice that the Front Doors are suicide, and the rears are not!




Now, the trucks:

1)The Green one is a 1948 International K-Series 1 ton truck, with a Chrysler Flat head 6 Cyl Engine. This is a truck that is owned by an International Dealer in Plattsburgh, NY. The owner stated that he has two of them, since he was born in 1948. It's all there, but currently not running, as is used as eye candy in front of the dealership.

2) The Ford is a 1964 Ford F250 Camper Conversion. It is currently registered, but there is some major work that has to be done to it. The cab is a custom cab, and is quite unique and interesting. This was also shot in Plattsburgh, NY (where the classic Airstreams were parked.)

3) The Maroon/Black Wrecker is a fully functioning 1966 International V200, and it has a Huge Gasoline 549 Cu. In V-8. I can't tell you the horsepower, but it sounds menacing. One thing I did spot when taking pictures was the fact that this still sports split rims, which are somewhat of a hazard if you try and change the tire... ugh!

MSNBC reports the tabloid was sued for invasion of privacy, with Mosley saying that, yes, he did have sexual relations, but that there were no Nazi overtones, and besides, the whole thing was just some good, clean fun in someone's basement. Good, clean fun involving throwing down with hookers and whips. We're still wondering what Max thinks is dirty fun. But we digress: Judge David Eady ruled in Mosley's favor, ordering the News of the World to pay $120,000 in damages. Which should, in turn, keep London's Nazi fetish hooker community busy. [MSNBC]

While Team Honda is believed to be the first organization racing with an active KERS system, the fact that Toyota, acknowledged as world leaders in hybrid technology, is admitting potentially insurmountable problems may lend credibility to calls for postponing KERS implementation. The system is intended to recover energy during braking, allowing it to be stored for later use as an electrical "boost" when needed.

We think the introduction of KERS could provide a new reason to watch what's become a rather dull sport, at least for the first season, as fans tune in to see how things play out. At the same time, if the system can't be proven safe above all else — not just for the drivers and mechanics, but also safe for track workers, rescue personnel, and spectators who could be in the vicinity of an accident — then rushing KERS into the program is a recipe for disaster. And, of course, higher TV ratings.
[Autosport.com; Photo Credit: AutoCult.com.au]

About a week ago, Red Bull Racing was forced to evacuate their garage as the battery pack associated with their KERS system went wrong, threatening fire and explosion. Of course, this kind of news makes us think the next F1 season may actually be interesting to watch. Sure, the sport is great fun when guys other than Schumi are winning, but nothing draws eyeballs like fireballs. [AutoSport]

According to KGP, the new engine should be capable of a 9% increase in power and a 15% increase in torque relative to the 5.4-liter gas V8. According to this leaked report, the gas V8 should be capable of 320 HP and 390 lb-ft of torque.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Doing the math, this would put the diesel V8 at approximately 350 HP and 450 lb-ft of torque, while still achieving 20% fuel economy. Let's hope sources and calculators don't lie.

2010.5 Ford F-150 Diesel Spy Report Ford's F-150 diesel has moved beyond the mule stage, and is now running as a fully trimmed prototype, wearing the latest F-150 sheetmetal. We caught this prototype taking a break from hot-weather testing, and we can now reveal some details confirming its diesel status.

A look inside the cockpit reveals a large "Diesel Fuel Only" warning sticker placed under the F-150's gage-faces. We also peeked inside the fuel door to see the the Urea Fill Port next to the diesel input port. The Urea port will allow the occasional addition of a Aqueous Urea, which acts as a Selective Catalytic Reducer to cut NOx emissions—allowing the F-150 to meet emissions requirements. The Urea tank is sized to be filled at the F-150's oil change intervals.

The F-150's diesel is a 4.4-liter V8, which will see a 9% increase in power and a 15% increase in torque, while delivering a 20% increase in fuel-economy—when compared to Ford's current 5.4-liter V8 gasoline engine. Ford expects to launch the 4.4-liter diesel on the 2010-1/2 F-150.

No. We don't like the nav system. It looks terrifyingly like a repainted Chrysler unit. Also...umm...well...actually, that's pretty much it. Hmm, well, anyway — let's just get back to the awesome, shall we?

The briefcase shelf in the back even folds down for trunk pass-through action. What's that? Those are seats? Oh. Ouch. We also get a peek under the hood at the direct-injected 4.3-liter V8 that'll be making the well-heeled sing the praises of it's 424 horses of goodness. Anyway, take a peek for yourselves folks, 'cause that right there is how you make a damn fine-looking automobile. [AutoMobilsmo.it (translated)]

I'm sure I could find many more mid-70s F-series trucks on the island, since they hold together pretty well and are still able to earn their keep these days.


This truck lives on one of the most DOTS-centric blocks in Alameda. Not only does the '66 Mercedes-Benz 250S we see in the background of this photo live nearby, so do the Double Cab '71 Chevy pickup and 1975 Chevy El Camino.


I'm pretty sure the current level of crazy gas prices won't keep this 3/4-ton beast of burden away from the job sites, but we'll see what happens if oil hits 200 bucks per barrel.

This is an extreme shift for Ford, an automaker planning on offering only V8 engines for the 2009 Ford F-150. While the 4.6-liter V8 at the bottom of the current truck's range supposedly delivers more horsepower and torque with the same fuel economy numbers as the outgoing 4.2-liter V6, it's still huge. Is it true? We're not sure yet. What we do know is that EcoBoost technology better be damn good to deliver the same HP and torque..

But, the numbers PickupTrucks.com is hearing indicate 250 HP and 300 lb-ft of torque on this new EcoBoost four-banger. Our thought is that'll be plenty of power — as long as it's getting fuel economy somewhere above 20 MPG. We guess time will tell. We hope Toby Keith doesn't mind things getting smaller in the engine compartment. [via PickupTrucks.com]

We've already mentioned that the company has a drag strip behind their main building but that's just the start of the Lone Star Motorsports Park racing facility they hope to build. The first phase of the track is set to be approximately 1.75 miles long with a 1.06-mile second phase and two small connections. The combined long track should have a maximum length of 2.54 miles of racing surface. One of the features they're hoping to build into the track is a separate entrance for celebrities (Nicholas Cage, for instance) who own the extreme cars but don't necessarily want to get hassled in the pits by dudes who totally loved National Treasure.

(also see our tour of Hennessey HQ, Hennessey Challegner SRT600 Exclusive First Look and Weird Hennessey Vehicles)

1 - 1995 Honda Civic

2 - 1991 Honda Accord

3 - 1989 Toyota Camry

4 - 1997 Ford F-150 Series Pickup

5 - 1994 Chevrolet C/K 1500 Pickup

6 - 1994 Acura Integra

7 - 2004 Dodge Ram Pickup

8 - 1994 Nissan Sentra

9 - 1988 Toyota Pickup

10 - 2007 Toyota Corolla

What is Ferrari creating in there? Like we said, could be darn near anything. But If it's the planned Enzo replacement, we're told it'll have the Twin-Turbo V8 rather than a smaller turbo'ed V6 or the California engine all repackaged up. And if it's the hybrid, well, then they surely wouldn't want us to see any kind of gadgetry they've developed. Let the rampant speculation begin! [WorldCarFans]

There's been some speculation as to just what engine would be used, either the 6.2-liter or the 5.4-liter V8. But, since the truck was seen pulling into a Roush building, we're pretty sure it'll have a blower on it. Of course, this obviously all depends on if the truck even sees the light of day. Remember, Ford has already delayed the 2009 F-150 for two months due to slumping sales. [Inside Line]

Ferrari President Luca Cordero di Montezemolo stressed in an interview with German mag Welt am Sonntag (World on Sunday) it was their goal to reach the emissions targets, but the car that emerges will still need be "fundamentally a Ferrari." We agree, and think that if anyone can pull it off, Ferrari can — when cost is essentially no object, a hybrid can be a fire-breathing, huge-torque road menace. And there's no reason to expect anything less from the prancing pony. [SMH.com]

Not much represented gaudy performance cars American muscle in the 1990s better than the Pontiac Firebird. This convertible 'Bird is decked out like he just did 120 down Findlay, Ohio's main street. [Cars Photos]

See the rest of our Jalopnik Auto Flag-Elation here and check out our pre-Fourth Jalopnik Automotive Amerigasm here.

In addition to the exhibition lap, the Toyota cars will adopt special Dark Knight paint schemes, while the Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock's overalls will be made to look like Batsuits (no word on nipples). The Bat-Pod will also be in attendance, but possible due to its extremely un-motorcycle-like handling characteristics, it won't be ridden.

PRESS RELEASE

Panasonic Toyota Racing joins forces with The Dark Knight at Silverstone

Thanks to a partnership between Panasonic Toyota Racing and Warner Bros. Pictures, Hollywood is coming to Silverstone for the British Grand Prix weekend to celebrate the release of the event movie of the summer: The Dark Knight.

The much-anticipated film, which releases in cinemas across the UK on 25 July, is the follow up to the 2005 action hit Batman Begins. The Dark Knight reunites director Christopher Nolan and star Christian Bale, who again portrays the dual role of Bruce Wayne/Batman.

To mark the release of The Dark Knight, Panasonic Toyota Racing will adopt a new look at Silverstone this weekend. The Dark Knight artwork will feature on the TF108s and the overalls of Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock, as well as the team's motor home.

But The Dark Knight theme does not stop there. On show at Silverstone will be the iconic Batmobile and Bat-Pod vehicles, while some very special media events will bring the excitement of The Dark Knight to life.<