Jalopnik: Leaky

Car & Driver Cover Clinic: Which Embargoed Shot of the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Do You Want on their April Cover?

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 07:30:00 EST

The buff boys over at the buff book named Car und Driver appear to be needing some crucial reader input on their April issue. They, or a duly-sworn representative, have taken it upon themselves to send out some versions of their cover to a small clinic group of readers to determine which shots should get the limelight of being an actual C&D cover. What's really funny to us is we remember overhearing a conversation involving Editor-in-Chief Csaba Csere at Narita Airport in the Northwest Worldclub waiting for our flight back from the Tokyo Auto Show. Csaba was loudly proclaiming how his publication is very careful with embargoed information, never — ever — letting outsiders have access to covers. We also remember hearing him say that other outlets (in the case being talked about, it was Motor Trend's accidental embargo breach on the Nissan GT-R) need to be more careful with covers that reveal sensitive information — and that Car & Driver doesn't ever run clinics or provide PR teams with covers that include embargoed information. Yes, well, we're assuming Csaba's going to have a little bit of egg on his face this morning. Because as you can see, there's two possible covers of Car & Driver's April issue — one above and one below the fold, each revealing the same thing — the new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in it's full glory, and a 425 HP rating — well before the official unveil of the new muscle car at the Chicago Auto Show in two weeks. Oh yes, and the new Pontiac G8 GT will have a HP rating of 362. One more pic below the jump and of course, our gallery of spy photos below. UPDATE: AutoWeek's gone ahead and jimmied the door on the embargo, busting it even further open with some more embargoed press shots on the new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 — so we're going ahead and dropping the whole salvo as well in the gallery below.
UPDATE #2: We've got a great graphical look at the differences between the concept and production versions of the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8.

Leaked BMW Competitive Analysis Gives Peek at Diesel Options

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 13:45:00 EST

Something fishy just leaked onto the Bimmer-centric site edBMW. It's a supposedly leaked document that compares the freshly unveiled BMW X6, Porsche Cayenne, and Range Rover Sport head to head, oh yeah, and also provides info on two diesel variants. The comparo makes it look like the new X6 is a gift from the acceleration gods, dutifully spanking both competitors (which strangely do not include the Audi Q7) in both acceleration and fuel consumption. We'll take that with a grain of salt and wait for independent testing first. It's that part about two different diesels that's interesting though.

While we were fully aware there was to be a diesel option for the almost a coupe, not quite an SUV, we didn't know what it would be, nor that there would be two options. The info shows contradictory elements though. Two different power outputs for their 3.0 liter diesel - 235 hp and 286 hp. The lower power model would be called the BMW X6 xDrive30d, and the higher power model the BMW X6 xDrive35d. The funny part is that both engines show the same capacity, thus the BMW naming convention makes no sense. Something funny going on over there.

Purported Audi Internal Product Release Schedule Leaks on to Internet, Reveals Underpowered Audi TT-S

Ray Wert — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 07:45:00 EST

A number of Audi fan forums across the internet have a spreadsheet showing up that purportedly shows a list of each and every product launch in Germany for 2008 (high-res shot here). Included in the spreadsheet are such noted notables as the Q5 and Q7 V12 TDI at the end of the third quarter, the Audi TT-S listed in the second quarter and the A4 Avant is listed with a spring 2008 reveal. But, what's most interesting is the power number revealed by the document for the Audi TT-S.

The document claims the new S-uperpowered TT is rated at a mere 269 HP, much lower than the predicted 280 horses sources claimed the new up-powered TT would achieve with the 2.0-liter TFSI engine found in the S3. Will TT-heads still buy it? Our bet is yes — but it surely disappoints given the previous conjecture. Well, who knows — maybe it's just Audi low-balling their HP numbers again.

Kia Mesa Teaser Shots Find Way To Web

Ray Wert — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:30:00 EDT

With the US release expected by the beginning of 2008, it's no wonder these first official shots of the Kia Mesa SUV were able to be teased out from the vice-like grip of their Korean overlords. After taking a quick glance at them, we're struck with the awful similarity it seems to have to the KCD-II Mesa concept we saw at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. Seriously, it looks like it's even coming complete with gaping overbite. [via Hyundai Exchange]

Holden To Announce LS7-Powered HSV Commodore?

Ray Wert — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EDT

Our mates over at Wheels magazine have some news for the followers of power-upgrades in Aussie muscle cars. The Australian buff book claims the Special Vehicles unit of Holden is bringing a 7.0-liter LS7-powered supercar to Sydney's Australian International Motor Show in October. There's no word yet on a name, but Wheels posits that HSV

"...could dust off the unused 427 moniker, or maybe the GTS-R badges from the 2004 concept race car. Our bet is for a combination of the two and the car to wear GTS-R 427 badging..."

All we're betting is if this news is true it greatly heightens the possibilities for dropping that 500 HP-plus LS7 engine into the 2009 Chevy Camaro, the Commodore's Zeta-platformed cousin. And don't even get us speculatin' on an LS7-powered Camino SS for 2011. – Ray Wert

HSV's King Hit! The LS7 Commodore Is Coming!!! [GMInsideNews via Supercars.net via Wheels]

The 725 HP Shelby GT500 Super Snake Can Be Yours For Just $72,000!

Ray Wert — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 08:30:00 EDT

According to the folks at the site who always have the scoop on the next evolution of the Mustang, you'll have to fork over some serious dough to make your GT500 slither. They've somehow managed to get pricing from the folks at Shelby on the Super Snake GT500 package that we've been told is capable of making your standard every-day 500 HP GT500 into a pony-car with (reportedly) over 725 HP, making it the highest horsepower street-legal warranty-carrying Mustang ever. The folks at Shelby will take your $45,000 GT500 and for just $27,995, they'll boost the engine performance via a Shelby supercharger upgrade, a Borla cat-back exhaust system and a cold air intake and then they'll work on the handling a bit by dropping in a Shelby/Eibach coil over suspension to lower the 'stang a little over an inch-and-a-half and then by adding Shelby/Eibach sway bars to reduce the body roll. In addition to some Pirelli P-Zero Nero 255/35ZR20 front and 275/35ZR20 rear tires, Shelby will pretty up the exterior by slapping on some carbon fiber, a KR-like Super Snake hood and some super striping and badging, then call it a day. We're even told they'll throw in some satin door lock knobs and some Shelby floor mats at no extra charge, but we're pretty sure they'll charge you if you ask for a Cobra-Kai karate gi to wear out on the road while driving your "Snake." Photo gallery of the Super Snake look-alike "King of the Road" below and full details on what else you'll get below the jump. – Ray Wert

2008 Shelby GT500 Super Snake Package Parts
Performance

* Shelby Supercharger Upgrade 600- 725+
* Cold Air intake
* Shelby/Baer 6 piston caliper bake system
* Shelby short throw shifter
* Shelby/Eibach coil over suspension
* Shelby/Eibach sway bars
* Borla cat-back exhaust system

Exterior

* Shelby Super Snake Hood
* Carbon fiber front fascia splitter
* Carbon fiber mirror covers
* Carbon fiber rocker panels
* Shelby deck lid letter kit
* Super Snake badging on front grille and front fenders
* Sequential tail lights
* Super Snake striping
* Front brake duct kit
* Rear brake duct kit

Interior

* CSM consecutively numbered dash plaque
* CSM consecutively numbered plaque in engine compartment
* Super Snake door sill plates with CSM number
* Light bar with solenoid activated brake light (Convertible)
* Shelby floor mats
* Aesthetic engine kit with billet fluid caps and dip stick handle
* Center gauge cluster with Autometer Carroll Shelby Signature Carbon Fiber faced gauges (boost,fuel pressure,oil pressure)
* Aluminum Shelby map light accent
* Satin door lock knobs

Tires and Wheels

* 20″ Shelby Alcoa wheels (bright silver finish 20X9 front 20X10 rear)
* Pirelli P-Zero Nero 255/35ZR20 front 275/35ZR20 rear

Super Snake GT500 Package: $27,995 [Mustang Evolution]

Details Leak Out On Bullitt Edition Mustang's Unimpressive Horsepower

Ray Wert — Tue, 15 May 2007 11:45:00 EDT

Well, from what we've seen of the next variant Mustang from FoMoCo from the time spent at the "Showcase of the Future" event at the end of last year, it's certainly going to look like a hot little green stallion (obvs not the same as the one above). Unfortunately, as the horse whisperers over at Mustang Evolution found out, the horsepower's nothing for Steve McQueen to write home about. We're talking 312 colts under the hood of that pony. That means if Mustang Evolution's numbers are correct, if we were to reenact the chase scene at the end of Bullitt with McQueen driving the new Bullitt edition versus a new Dodge Charger with the 5.7-liter Hemi engine (much less the SRT8's big 6.1-liter), the scene should still have ended differently than it did in the movie — the Charger was and still is a much more powerful vehicle. Of course we're probably missing some extra "umph" generated by the sheer manliness of McQueen that allowed him to handily beat the baddies in the Charger but we're still not exactly clear on what the exact conversion is between manliness and horsepower. Full details on the leaked information below the jump. – Ray Wert

* FR Power Pack Estimated 312HP
* Shock/Strut Tuning

* Strut Tower Brace

* Upgraded Steering System

* Red Brake Calipers

* 3:73 Axle Ratio

* X-Pipe Exhaust w/Bright Exhaust Tips

* Unique Sport Seating

* Unique Sill Plate

* Bright Metal Trim & Unique Shifter

* Available In Highland Green Or Black

* Unique Grill V6 Style (w/o Fog Lamps)

* Rear Faux Gas Cap w/Bullitt Logo

* Cap Surround Painted Charcoal Gray

* 18″ Bullitt Style Wheel

* Red Brake Calipers

* $TBD MSRP

* Program Length: 6 Months

* Total Volume: 7,000 US, 700 Canada

* Allocation TBD

2008 Bullitt Mustang Specs Leaked [Mustang Evolution]

Over The Back Fence: Ford Fusion Hybrid To Debut At LA Auto Show?

Ray Wert — Thu, 10 May 2007 19:00:00 EDT

A source at FoMoCo tells us they plan to rock down to electric-gas avenue in the near-term future. Although we knew there'd be a 2009 model of a certain razor-bladed sedan with some kind of charge to it, we didn't know any more details other than that. Until today. Our source, who for the moment we'll call "Electric Throat", tells us that Ford plans to introduce a Ford Fusion hybrid at either the LA or Detroit Auto Show but they're "pushing hard for LA." Makes sense to us — all the better to get the attention of the left coast folks. We don't have much more than that — but whatevs, it's a slow news day. – Ray Wert

Saab To Build STI Fightin' 9-3

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 09 May 2007 16:00:00 EDT

The true Scandinavian black metal fans over at SaabScene got themselves a couple of leaked images of the soon to be refreshed 9-3. That doesn't really interest us too much, as it brings a FWD-knife to the 3-series led RWD-gunfight. Though we do remember Mr. Dan Neil telling us that the 9-3 is one of his favorite cars. So what do we know? However, what does excite us is what the elite experts at Motor Authority are saying; the new 9-3 will get a Haldex AWD system and a 300 hp turbo V6. Saab, we didn't know you had it in you. Plus, now that the Volvo Rs are no more, hoons will still have a Swedish-ish option. And yes, you can get the good stuff in the SportCombi. Go hot wagons, go! – Jonny Lieberman

Spy Shots of refreshed Saab 9-3 [saabscene.com]

Super Snake: Shelby To Create Bigger 'Stang With Longer Fangs and 725 Hp?

Ray Wert — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 11:30:00 EDT

Maybe not having the Ford GT's giving FoMoCo a bit of an empty stable complex. It's the only reason we can come up with for this ever-expanding need to expand the Mustang's horsepower and speed. Not that we mind, we're just trying to figure out the reasons why. Maybe there's no need to determine a why when it comes to numbers that we're told reach 725 hp. That's right, you heard me correctly. We're pleased to introduce you to what we're hearing are the newest performance packages from Mustang, the Super Snake. The folks over at MustangsUnleashed have the scoop on what they're claiming is Shelby's next performance package extension for the GT500, and we've got what they think is the press release from Carroll's little shop below in addition to our own shot above of the very KR-like Mustang (which we've included a gallery of below) that we're told it'll look like. – Ray Wert

SHELBY AUTOS AND FORD RACING TO BUILD 600+ HP STREET LEGAL SHELBY GT500 "SUPER SNAKES"
Las Vegas - April 27, 2007 - Shelby Automobiles will use newly-developed Ford Racing GT500 performance packs to help transform a limited number of 2007 and 2008 Ford Shelby GT500's into fire breathing "Super Snake" coupes. The Super Snake post-title package will include enhancements to the Ford Shelby GT500's handling, styling and power; tuning options will range from a warranted 600 HP V8 to over 725 HP (unwarranted). Only a limited number of Super Snakes will be built per model year at the Shelby Automobiles facility in Las Vegas beginning in late 2007.

"My team at Shelby Automobiles is always working on new ways to build better performing cars" said Carroll Shelby. "I told them that I wanted to build a vehicle that could blow the doors off of most anything on the planet. By partnering with Ford Racing, we're giving enthusiasts a Mustang with that level of performance."

Working together at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and in Dearborn, Ford Racing and Team Shelby developed the aggressive suspension and engine package specifically for the car.

"Mustang enthusiasts are demanding more from both Ford Racing and Shelby Autos" said Jamie Allison, Manager of Ford Racing Performance Group. "The GT500 Super Snake package, with its higher horsepower levels and balanced track-inspired tuning, satisfies those demands and then some ... in a uniquely Ford - Shelby way."

In 1967, Shelby American built one 427-powered GT500 "Super Snake" for Mel Burns Ford. Carroll Shelby drove it at the Goodyear test track for tire promotion film production. That car reached lap speeds of over 150 mph and a top speed of 170 mph. The new Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake will be equally potent.

"The name 'Super Snake' is legendary because the one that Shelby built was the pinnacle of muscle cars in 1967," added Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles. "We're bringing that concept forward 40 years for customers who own a Ford Shelby GT500. We'll give their car amazing new capabilities."

Ford Racing and Team Shelby developed the GT500 Super Snake package which will include:
Ford Racing Supercharger upgrade kit (SuperPack 600) producing over 600 horsepower and 590 ft.-lbs. of torque
6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio
Ford Racing performance exhaust system
Ford Racing Handling Pack offering unique performance suspension tuning including Dynamic adjustable dampers, lowering springs, tuned stabilizer bars, and front strut tower brace
Shelby-designed Alcoa 20-inch wheels
Ford Racing short-throw shifter
Baer 6 piston brakes with Shelby cast calipers and larger rotors
Front brake cooling ducts
Unique carbon composite hood featuring classic Shelby design
'Shelby' lettering across the front edge of hood and rear decklid
'Super Snake' vehicle badging
Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and floor mats, and other Shelby designed components
Official Shelby CSM dash plate

In addition, while the full Super Snake package will be available exclusively through Shelby Automobiles, many of the products comprising the Super Snake package will be available from Shelby Automobiles and Ford Racing starting in June.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com. For more information regarding Ford Racing performance packs, visit www.fordracingparts.com.

About Shelby Automobiles, Inc.
Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. The company manufactures authentic continuation Cobras, including the 427 S/C, 289 FIA and 289 street car component vehicles. The company has partnered with Ford Motor Company to build the Shelby GT, Shelby GT500 and Shelby GT-H, which are based on the current Mustang. For more information about Shelby Automobiles, visit www.shelbyautos.com.

Shelby Unveils GT500 SuperSnake: 600-725 HORSEPOWER! [Mustangs Unleashed!]

New York Auto Show: Hackers Went After Subaru Website For Hot Impreza Action?

Ray Wert — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 13:45:33 EDT

We never knew the Subaru website was an epicenter of embargoed press info instead of the embargo system itself that was to blame for all those impressive Impreza leaks prior to the show. Little did we know it was really those dastardly ~~buff mags~~ ~~consumer web sites~~ ~~bloggers~~ hackers — always trying to get the scoop on the new Subie Impreza before they're supposed to. – Ray Wert

Video by Richard Blakeley

New York Auto Show: Secret Ford Car Not A Ford; World Car Of The Year Winner?

Ray Wert — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 13:36:55 EDT

Ok, so we're pretty certain that car we snapped shots of earlier (and have reproduced above) under cover is neither a Ford or a Flex. But what is it? Well, since it was sitting in the "Special Events Hall" at the Javits Center — one would think it's there for some other event. The only other event that's on the schedule in the Special hall is the World Car Of The Year (WCOTY) breakfast tomorrow morning. Our guess is that vehicle under cover is the winner — but here's a question — who's the winner? The nominees are below the jump — and your guesses, of course, will be in the comments. So let's break this bad boy open to the world before the WCOTY tomorrow. Damn the man!

2007 World Car Of The Year Nominees Audi TT Lexus LS460 MINI

Umm, but we just thought of something — it could also been one of the finalists for World Design of the Year, World Performance Car or even the World Green Car. So, you know, let's get to work here and figure this one out. – Ray Wert

SHO Me The Twin Force, Baby! Rumors Of Performance Taurus Tease The Interwebs

Ray Wert — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 13:00:00 EDT

FoMoCo forums are all atwitter with people claiming to have the inside skinny on the possibility of a Super High Performance version of the Ford's newly renamed Taurus. So what have we heard thrown over the back fence from Dearborn? Well, we're getting tios that a high-performance model of the Taurus is undergoing testing in Dearborn. We've also heard, and I dunno how much stock I'll put in this one, but it is from one of our reliable sources, that

"mills with both TwinForce and Yamaha are being tested...the only thing I'm worried about is that it may not reach production...more of a feasibility test, but we shall see."

But on top of our own sources, Blue II over on BlueOvalForums, a member who's called almost all of FoMoCo's most recent bold moves is now claiming:

"Not sure if this is Mulally news but Taurus will get the Twin Force engine. Not sure if it will be called SHO though."

The Twin Force, as everyone remembers, is the new 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo direct injection engine debuting in the Lincoln MKR concept. The Twin Force delivers 415 horsepower and 400 foot-pounds of torque - comparable to and better than some V8's. We don't know how much, if any, of this is true, but as a reminder of what could be, we've reprinted the 2009 SHO Concept pictures from BringBackTheSHO below. – Ray Wert

The Corvette SS Production Mule Spy Photos Were So Precise, Even Germans Dig Them!

Ray Wert — Sat, 17 Mar 2007 16:56:48 EDT

Not one to toot our own horns — wait, who are we kidding, of course we are — but it looks like Der Spiegel wants a piece of us today. The highly precise newspaper from Deutschland dropped us some link-love in today's edition on the Corvette "Esh - Esh" (or Blue Devil, or whatever) that we ran a few weeks back. While we appreciate the German Spiegel-love, we realized they were just pointing readers to our main page — and since we don't have the powertrain mule pics up on the main page at the moment, we decided to make it easier for our cross-Continental friends to find them. For instance, just click through the picture gallery below or through the related links for the story in case you're coming here late.– Ray Wert

Breaking! Police Report From The Great Million Dollar Corvette SS Mule Photo Caper!

Ray Wert — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 13:40:22 EST

Yeah, we couldn't come up with anything better to call it either (feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below and we'll potentially use the best one). It looks like our breathless buddy Josh Oliver breathlessly procured a copy of the police report in — whatever we're calling this thing. So what can we glean from the document? Well, the car was on the loading dock at Central States Trucking Company and it's a

"2007 Chevrolet Corvette prototype, red in color, no vin. no license plate. Vehicle was shipped to Germany on 02-20-2007. The vehicle is valued at one million dollars."

In addition, we've also learned

"at this time it appears that [REDACTED] will be fired from his job and possible civil action will be taken."

Oopsie. Check out the rest over on Josh's breathless General Motorgasm of a site via the link below. Also, feel free to check back through our gallery demonstrating ways to get caught taking pictures of a million dollar Corvette SS prototype on it's way to Germany. – Ray Wert

TheGMSource Has Obtained The Police Report Filed In Romulus, Michigan [TheGMSource.com]

We're Not Yet In Jail: More Speculation On The Corvette SS Spy Photos, Corvette C7

Ray Wert — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 11:45:00 EST

OK, so the spy photographer who snapped those pictures of the Corvette powertrain mule and posted them all over the internet is NOT in jail, and our sources at the General now confirm they've taken no legal action "themselves" against anyone. The General also hasn't pushed for anyone to take down their photos — which is good, because as you can see in the photogallery below, we weren't planning on pulling them down any time soon. But since speculation is what the name of the game is about on this whole Super-Duper (blue) devil of a Corvette — we figure we should be spending some time speculatin' about the next gen of the 'vette — the 7th. Motor Authority is claiming that in this next issue of MotorTrend magazine (which we've not confirmed as we've not yet received), they've got an exclusive interview with GM's veep of global product development Jim Queen, who they're claiming says:

"the next-generation C7 Corvette will retain a naturally aspirated V8 engine but will develop up to 700hp in flagship form. Also, rumors of an AWD version are said to be false..."

"...The major focus of the project will be to increase the efficiency of the drivetrain. "We're working hard to get that power onto the pavement," Queen said, adding that weight and weight distribution are the keys. Most of GM's upcoming large RWD cars are moving to its new Zeta architecture, however, the new Corvette and its Cadillac XLR sibling will be based on a unique platform. "

Hmm, ready set, speculate! – Ray Wert

Next-gen C7 Corvette gets 700HP

Spy Photos: I Am The Corvette SS Powertrain Mule

Ray Wert — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 20:02:29 EST

Why yes, that is the new Corvette SS (or whatever) powertrain being mule-tested at — well, we'll just let the guy who just lost his job by posting these on a forum explain where they are from:

"lufthansa cargo in michigan. we got a redz06 and a regular orangec6. the z06 has some black tarp on the hood and the fenders, i cant tell if its a centr. supercharger its to dark outside...ok its gotta be supercharged i just saw a intercooler."

Yup, full gallery below — just 'cause we love ya...a lot. – Ray Wert

vette vs. viper [Fast-Autos.net]

UPDATE: The individual who took the photos, an employee of the shipping company EMO TRANS, is now in jail. Here's what we know.

Road And Track Gets An "Exclusive," Dumps Pontiac G8 Press Shots On The Web

Ray Wert — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 17:40:55 EST

GM can't seem to get its pants up fast enough to let these embargo breaks from the ~~dastardly internet~~ auto buff mags from leaking out. The General's issued some strong words in the past that they're interested in making sure the playing field's level for all competitors, yet for some reason the big books seem to be getting the big breaks. But hey, who knew Road & Track even had a website? More teeny-tiny buy-my-mag-now website buff mag pics from Road & Track's "exclusive" after the break. Don't they just make ya wanna run out a buy a copy right quick? If they don't, fear not, we'll have them here for free shortly. – Ray Wert

2008 Pontiac G8 [Road & Track]

Chicago Auto Show: Leaky Pontiac G8 Continues To Dribble Out

Ray Wert — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 08:02:40 EST

The folks who brought us the G8 pics yesterday from the web-cam of the official video being played on the floor of the Chicago Auto Show are now bringing us something else extra special. The site all about bringing Power to (or is it from) the new Pontiac G8, just brought us a full-fledged press pic of the front-end of the re-badged Holden. Oh wait, actually — they just brought us two of them, first one's above, and the second one's after the jump. Of course you could wait until the embargo officially lifts sometime between midnight-plus-one tonight and tomorrow AM. But really, why would you want to do that? – Ray Wert

Official media release pics leaked [G8Power]

Related:
Oh Noes, GM — Did The Pontiac G8 Just Leak? [internal]

Oh Noes, GM -- Did The Pontiac G8 Just Leak?

Ray Wert — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 16:43:32 EST

The always-on webcams at the Chicago Auto Show begin to b-cast their feed at about t-minus-one week before the show's media preview begins (for those folks who are as-yet-unawares, that's this week). Despite the obvious need for being careful around such a device, the folks at the General couldn't help themselves and ran their little promo vid right in front of the lens. Lucky for us, our friends at the G8Power board had their seemingly never-blinking eyes on the always-on footage feed, and snapped some screen-caps of the G8 sans Wagoner-bra-cladding. Check out their big scoop (as in hood — ha, we slay ourselves) above, and in the two pics below the jump. – Ray Wert

UPDATE: More pictures have leaked out — full gallery below:

Pontiac G8 revealed on web cam!! [G8Power.com]

Carlos Ghosn Addresses His "Performance Crisis" While HQ Staff Go Bonus Bonkers

Ray Wert — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 16:53:49 EST

The Japanese side of the cross-global partnership announced today their profits took a bit of a hit during the fourth quarter. Ok, that's an understatement, in reality it was a 22.6% slide. In response, CEO Carlos Ghosn told reporters in Tokyo on a conference call from Paris, "We have today a performance crisis and we need to fix it as soon as possible." We've only got to ask the normally virile doubled-up CEO superhero one question — Levitra, Cialis or Viagra?

But unfortunately for the superhero CEO, we're not the only ones with a question. Apparently the folks at the still bright, shiny and new Nashville HQ (yes, that's the same one that experienced some network "performance issues" yesterday) have some questions of their own regarding bonuses. We'll let our anonymous source detail the issue for you:

"Here's a good one. We all got called in to confidential lunch meetings today to be told that after 6 straight years of record profits, and a $4 billion profit this year, there will be no employee bonuses for FY2006. The bonuses, based on hitting ever-escalating profit objectives, comprised a substantial part of our income..."

"...for those past 6 years in this sweatshop. Granted, we should still be happy we have jobs, I know. But really. Did anyone really believe that by not making salary cuts in the move to Tennessee from California, Carlos was not going to get his pound of flesh elsewhere? We're told that executives will not be getting bonuses either, but that's probably about as true as the time monkies flew out my ass."

Uh-oh, Carlos. – Ray Wert

Nissan has a 'performance crisis': Ghosn [globeandmail.com]

C-Leaky: Mercedes W204 C-Class Brochure

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 15 Jan 2007 14:55:51 EST

Those Teutonic-loving scamps over at the German Car Zone procured a pre-release brochure for the new W204 C-Class. A loverly bunch of coconuts, them. [Thanks to Yannis for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

[via German Car Zone]

The Embargo Is Breached, Will It Hold? Chrysler, Dodge Minivan Pics Hit Spanish Forum Site

Ray Wert — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 12:17:04 EST

Chrysler Group's been more tight-lipped about the money-making minivan than even the 600 hp Dodge Viper — and that makes sense, as they'll be selling somewhere around 100 times the number of minivans than cobra-kai cars. So it's no wonder they'll probably be a little upset some Spanish-language mopar enthusiast site's gone and swept their leg on these two shots — one of the ass-end of the new Dodge Caravan and the other of the frontward-facing Chrysler Town & Country. As of yet, no other deets have emerged — but, we're sure someone's gonna do their best to rip the rest of the info from the Jason Vines' warm and protective bosom. The Town & Country's above and the Dodge Caravan's below the jump — we'll have more come Detroit or you know, whenever this mutha's torn wide open. [Hat tip to Jim!] – Ray Wert

UPDATE: Chrysler Group's asked us to take down these two pictures as they've promised to request the same from our original source. We've agreed, and given them some time to do just that. Don't we all just LOVE embargoes?

Related:
More on the Caravan [internal]

Scrooged! Nissan HQ Employees To Have A Blue Christmas Due To Late Pay

Ray Wert — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 14:54:53 EST

We never really understood why Nissan made the move to the Tennessee. Sure, CEO Carlos Ghosn can talk a big game about how he wants to locate the NorAm HQ near his new manufacturing locations — but if the need for that were true, the NorAm HQ for FoMoCo would be in Mexico and GM's would be located in Canada near the Silverado plant or somewhere in Asia. But we digress — there's now one more gripe to add to the list since the big move from sunny SoCal. On top of moving pay from bi-weekly to monthly, today employees in Memphis found out a corporate snafu is causing tomorrow's paycheck to show up sometime next week rather than, you know — tomorrow. That's just in time to make it into their accounts for the day after Christmas. Alas, it's not in time to pay for the yet-to-be-picked-up honey-glazed spiral-sliced ham from Honey-Baked. Sorry Timmy, it looks like you'll be getting cold cuts from Piggly Wiggly this Christmas. Full text of the e-mail from Nissan to employees this afternoon after the jump. – Ray Wert

From: N-COM US
> Sent: Thursday, December 21, 2006 12:28 PM
> To: *NNA All Employees (R)
> Subject: Internal E-News - Corporate - December
Paychecks
>
>
>
>
>
> December 22 Paychecks
>
>
>
>
>
> Our payroll processing system temporarily went down
Tuesday night,
> resulting in a 12-hour delay in the normal payroll
processing
> timetable.
> Although the system is now back online, the deadline
required to
> ensure all funds are posted by Friday morning was
not met.
>
>
>
> Please be advised that funds from your December
paycheck should be in
> your account by Friday DECEMBER 22, 2006 but may
> not be made available to your account until as late
as noon on
> Tuesday, Dec. 26. Should your deposits not appear
in your account by
> noon on December 26TH and you need special payroll
support, please
> call
> 1-800-388-4123 for assistance.
>
>
>
>
> Have a restful, safe and happy holiday.
>
>
>
>
>
> # # #
>
>
>
>
>
> N-COM061221130
>

Oops! Detroit Auto Show Web Site Spills Chevy's Biggest Secret

Ray Wert — Mon, 18 Dec 2006 16:16:31 EST

Ok, maybe not the biggest secret — we're assuming that's more than likely the Camaro convertible concept we've heard so much about — or that little bit of something-something on another platform we've heard about too. But, despite this not being the biggest thing on earth, we're sure that Chevy's got to be oh so not very happy with the organizers of the North American International Auto Show ( also known as NAMBLA, NAIAS or the Detroit Auto Show ). That's because no less than an hour after the 'merican revolution carefully provided the media a sneak peek of the strong center-lined front end of the new-for-2008 Chevy Malibu, an enterprising web-boy found a little more than the sneak peek originally provided by Chevy available for all comers on the NAIAS web site. Oh well Chevy, looks like the cat's out of the bag — the rest of the car looks like — umm— well, not terrible looking. – Ray Wert

Chevrolet releases an advance image of the exterior of the all-new 2008 Malibu [NAIAS]

Showcasing Da Future: With Eyes Wide Shut, Ford Looks Way Forward

Ray Wert — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 14:11:30 EST

FoMoCo opened up their legs today to show the future between — and unfortunately, we made a "Bold Move" and checked out what they had to say and show. Although it's not in my nature to be mysterious, I can't talk about it and I can't talk about why. But ok, alright, I give — what I can say is there are all sorts of new stuff coming out over the next few years — some of it might actually be of a...

[REDACTED BY FOMOCO]

...so yeah, and that's when they'll announce the all-new Ranchero. Anyway — I hope that was helpful. For similar non-helpfulness, check out Autoblog and the never-straight Road. – Ray Wert

Related:
Is This The 2009 Ford Mustang? [internal]

Chrysler Wields The Heavy Hand Of The DMCA, Hits Self

Ray Wert — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 09:01:00 EST

Apparently the folks at the 'merican side of the German-American hybrid were pretty upset we liberated those "gag" commercials from the bureaucracy of Auburn Hills a while back. They've gone so far as to head on over to YouTube like a petulant child asking them "Mommy, make Jalopnik stop running leaks they get from the Tech Center!" and just like that YouTube's gone and slapped us with a little DMCA violation for the content — and poof, the funny little ads that have done more to help make the 'merican side look like a spunky li'l automaker willing to take chances than anything real they've done in years, they're gone. Why do we somehow think "Mean" Joe Eberhardt had something to do with this? Curse you Joe, curse you and your stuck-in-the-mud ways. Hey, but that's ok — someone else has gone and uploaded both vids for us. Thank you, whoever you are, JalopnikHeartsJoe! Full ~~attempted censorship~~ DMCA violation complaint after the jump. – Ray Wert

Dear Member:
This is to notify you that we have removed or disabled access to the following material as a result of a third-party notification by DaimlerChrysler claiming that this material is infringing:

Folgers Switch - Jeep Commander - GAG VERSION!: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX3V8CYcOtA

Please Note: Repeat incidents of copyright infringement will result in the deletion of your account and all videos uploaded to that account. In order to avoid future strikes against your account, please delete any videos to which you do not own the rights, and refrain from uploading additional videos that infringe on the copyrights of others. For more information about YouTube's copyright policy, please read the Copyright Tips guide.

If you elect to send us a counter notice, to be effective it must be a written communication provided to our designated agent that includes substantially the following (please consult your legal counsel or see 17 U.S.C. Section 512(g)(3) to confirm these requirements):

1. A physical or electronic signature of the subscriber.
2. Identification of the material that has been removed or to which access has been disabled and the location at which the material appeared before it was removed or access to it was disabled.
3. A statement under penalty of perjury that the subscriber has a good faith belief that the material was removed or disabled as a result of mistake or misidentification of the material to be removed or disabled.
4. The subscriber's name, address, and telephone number, and a statement that the subscriber consents to the jurisdiction of Federal District Court for the judicial district in which the address is located, or if the subscriberis address is outside of the United States, for any judicial district in which the service provider may be found, and that the subscriber will accept service of process from the person who provided notification under subsection (c)(1)(C) or an agent of such person.

Such written notice should be sent to our designated agent as follows:

DMCA Complaints
YouTube, Inc.
1000 Cherry Ave.
Second Floor
San Bruno, CA 94066
Email: copyright@youtube.com

Please note that under Section 512(f) of the Copyright Act, any person who knowingly materially misrepresents that material or activity was removed or disabled by mistake or misidentification may be subject to liability.

Sincerely,
YouTube, Inc.

Avenger To Be Assembled! Dodge Dealer Memo Confirms Production Of New Sedan, Minivan

Ray Wert — Thu, 23 Nov 2006 14:19:49 EST

Production of two new vehicles was confirmed in a memo to dealers of the 'merican side of the German-American hybrid this week, obtained by Katie Merx of the Freep. The first, the Dodge Avenger, which was introduced in Paris this year as a "concept car" or "prototype" (depending on who you asked in Auburn Hills — of course a second later they'd then say "off the record, of course, you do know we're building it?") is reported to begin production in January at the Sterling Heights, MI plant also housing the manufacturing line for it's badge-engineered brother car, the Chrysler Sebring. In addition, the memo also confirms the date of September 1st as the start of the production of those twin towers of sales superpower, the Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans (which, as you remember, we snapped some exclusively bedecked in fascia-obscura spy shots of) — and that the lines would stop on the current model minivan in mid-May. – Ray Wert

Dodge Avenger, minivans coming [Freep]

Breaking! GM To Offer 100,000 Mile / 5-Year Powertrain Warranty, Roadside Assistance On All 2007 Models

Ray Wert — Wed, 06 Sep 2006 13:16:55 EDT

According to GM's online public streaming feed site, GMTV, the General will be offering up a helping of image quality at 1:00 PM today:

"GM to Provide 100,000-mile/5-year Powertrain Warranty, Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation on all 2007 US and Canada Cars and Trucks."

We've sent Wert down to cover it live and sniff out what's up at the RenCen this afternoon. [Hat tip to Jeffrey!]

GM Announces Best Warranty [GMTV]

Ghosn Going To Get Free Checks! Renault, Nissan Reportedly Hiring Banks To Advise On A GM Threesome

Ray Wert — Wed, 06 Sep 2006 11:38:43 EDT

Word on the street from both the business boys over at Bloomberg and the fiscal yet still frisky folks at the Financial Times is Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn's gone and hired advisory banks for a possible alliance with General Motors. The Financial Times report says Renault's hired investment bank BNP Paribas as its bank of choice for setting up Ghosn's three-way action with the General and Nissan. Although Nissan spokespeople are doing the "decline to comment" dance — we all know that's just the only way PR people know how to say "yes."

Renault has no comment on advisory bank reports [Reuters]

Paris Preview: Avengers, Assemble! 2008 Dodge Avenger R/T Pictures Leak Onto The Internets

Ray Wert — Mon, 04 Sep 2006 20:51:30 EDT

When the PR team atop Dieter's head at the NorAm world HQ of the German-American hybrid realizes that there's been pictures of some new Mopar goodness leaked all over the interwebs, trust us — someone'll pay — especially since it's well before the supposed release at this year's Paris Auto Show at the end of the month. But if they're looking for a culprit, they'll probably want to start with Name Already In Use over at the SRT Forums, who snapped pictures of what appears to be the new 2008 Dodge Avenger R/T, completely in the nude sans any fascia-obscuring clothing. Bare that crossbar with pride, Avenger — especially considering how many Bothans died to get us your pictures after the jump.

read and heed... [SRT Forums]

Related:
Spy Photos: Dodge Avenger? [internal]

Ask Dr Z About The Fine Print: Sweepstakes Rules Leak Dodge Challenger R/T Approximate Retail Value Of $30,000

Ray Wert — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 13:45:03 EDT

Dodge's probably thinkin' it wished they didn't have to follow all of those rules for sweepstakes — like the ones that require them and ePrize to list the Approximate Retail Value (ARV)of a give-away. For instance, in the Dodge Challenger give-away we reported on yesterday (and the subsequent muscle car skirmish), the fine print's pretty clear:

THREE (3) VEHICLE DRAWING C PRIZES: 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T. ARV: $30,000.

Although that number's just an approximation, and heavens knows it don't mean a hill of beans — it's certainly a good indication Dodge's looking to move some of these here muscle cars. The Charger's priced at about the same ($30,705) for the R/T with a HEMI, and since the two share the same underskirt, that pricing makes some sense. [Hat tip to Zerin!]

Official Sweepstakes Rules [Dodge/ePrize]

Tesla Electric Car Pics Leaked!

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 21:36:08 EDT

The new electric supercar named after the guy who gave his name to the band who gave us Little Suzi was set for a proper unveiling tomorrow. The Internet being what it is, photos of the roadster — once reported to be based on the Lotus Elise — leaked a day early. No specs yet kids, but they'll be Cumin Atcha Live tomorrow. [UPDATE: LLN has news on the Tesla's funding.] [UPDATE 2: Wired has lots more photos.]

Toyota Tells All: "GM Hasn't Talked To Us, We Haven't Talked To Them."

Ray Wert — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 12:00:40 EDT

In an attempt to counter some weekend wild-ass speculation — the Detroit News is reporting from another unnamed Toyota source — apparently with a different opinion from that made by BusinessWeek's David Kiley:

"They haven't approached us, and we haven't approached them."

With all of these unnamed sources running around — one talking to Kiley, and one talking to Christine Tierney of the Detroit News — we're starting to wonder if maybe the unnamed sources should start talking to each other first to make sure everyone's on the same page. Then, when the two of you have your stories straightened out — drop us a line at tips@jalopnik.com.

Toyota not out to derail GM talks [Detroit News]
Will Toyota Make a Play for GM? [BusinessWeek]

Hier-De-Boom-Boom, Uemm BORK-BORK-BORK! Ford Looks To Sweden For Hybrids; The World For Everything Else

Ray Wert — Mon, 03 Jul 2006 09:30:00 EDT

Yeah, the US of A — we don't need no hybrids. In fact, when we think of our good ol' America, we think energy independence, high fuel economy and an addiction to small n' efficient cars. While we're not-so-much kidding on the square, we were thinking maybe Ford believes just that. Three days after announcing it wouldn't be meeting the 250,000 unit goal for hybrids — we hear news FoMoCo's looking to boost their spend on Swedish hybrid R&D, building a fresh and clean hybrid tech center for Volvo in Sweden. So why is the Dearborn-based automaker more interested in developing their hybrid tech across the pond? Well...

...we think maybe it's a cost thing. We're hearing all sorts of stuff from the boys and girls in Dearborn about the cost-cutting going on in IT and other high-tech (re: high-cost) areas. The FoMoCo folks are finally putting together cost-benefit analyses of things like supply-chain, design and engineering software — and making the decision to off-shore anything not requiring direct hands-on help from Dearborn. So they're shipping a poop-load of software programs over to India — and the associated jobs with them.

We guess it stands to reason that maybe after 3 years of trying — Ford, Fields and Co. decided it just wasn't working out to continue in-shoring the R&D for hybrid technology. So, maybe it makes sense to shuffle that crap on over to another country where there're lower costs, better high-tech R&D tax credits or better resources. Maybe after Volvo's solved whatever problems Ford's having with their hybrids, they'll in-shore the solution. Meh, who needs it — we've got E85 here. Flex-fuel! Flex-fuel!

Ford, Volvo announce investment in hybrid technology in Sweden [Detroit News]

Transformers Trailer Leaks To Interwebs Early -- Fanboys Worldwide Shriek With Glee

Ray Wert — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 01:01:00 EDT

Well, its official — Paramount Pictures is one hella leaky place. First it was those pictures we saw of the Camaro — then the Bumblebee pic Paramount asked us to take down — and now the teaser trailer's hit the net almost a week before Michael Bay's best laid plans had it written. In fact, so bad has it gotten, the boys and gitls at Paramount have said "screw it" to the whole plan of dropping the teaser trailer like a firecracker onto the official website on July 4th — and have gone ahead and dropped it early. So roll on over to see some pictures of a very mean Decepticon beat the snot out of a Mars rover — and with it, Michael Bay's pride and PR rollout plan. Megatron, you bastard! [Hat tip as always — to our boy, Hue and TFW2005!]

Transformers Movie

Ford's Thinking Hollywood, Baby! Bold Moves: The Movie!

Ray Wert — Mon, 26 Jun 2006 16:28:29 EDT

Ford must really think the public is concerned with how they're turning the company around because Ford's hitting the "big (little) screen" like a star — like a not-so-bright, not-so-shining star — in a 50-part documentary series highlighting the "Bold Moves" FoMoCo is taking. In an e-mail today to all Ford staff, Mark Fields, President of Ford North America, outlined exactly what the documentary would accomplish:

Most people outside of the company never will have seen such an insider's view of the designing, engineering, manufacturing and selling of cars and trucks. We believe the public will be fascinated - and, at times, shocked by our candor. That's because this is not typical marketing or PR. It's not scripted or pre-planned. The documentary chronicles actual events as they happen.

Right — and we totally believe it'll be "not scripted or pre-planned" as well chock full of "candor" and we're sure the public will be "fascinated" as well. Will they be "shocked?" Well...maybe Wall Street will be when they find out about this cockamamie idea. It sounds like Fields has everything under control over there...but...just in case they're looking for some wacky n' bold ideas, we think we've come up with some titles for a few of their webisodes — check them out, along with the full e-mail from Marky-Mark, after the jump — and then provide us with some of your own:

Webisode Titles:

1.) Ford: The Battle for Dearborn
2.) Episode II: Use The Fords, Fields
3.) Mark Fields: Demolition Man
4.) William Ford Sr: The Ford-father
5.) Mark Fields' List
6.) Ford Of The Rings

Marky-Mark's E-mail

This week, we mark the next phase in our Bold Moves marketing communications platform. Tomorrow at noon Eastern time, we will introduce the world to a rare behind-the-scenes look at our Way Forward turnaround through an online documentary series we call
"BOLDMOVES: The Future of Ford."

Hosted at www.fordboldmoves.com, the weekly documentary tells our story in a direct, open and honest manner. Many of you and your colleagues will "star" in the episodes, as we work to show the world that we have the passion and the plan to win.

Over time, the documentary will present a picture of a company that is committed to revitalization through our people, products, improved quality and costs, and a laser-sharp focus on the customer. Each episode will provide evidence that it's not business as usual at the Ford Motor Company and that our "change or die" Way Forward attitude is not a sound bite. It's the way we're approaching our future.

The documentary is one of a series of Bold Moves initiatives. As we previously have pointed out, Bold Moves is far more than an advertising campaign or new tag line. It reflects who we are, where we're going and what's important to our customers. Bold Moves reflects not just how we communicate with our customers, but also how we operate internally as a nimbler, faster and less bureaucratic organization.

The documentary is being taped during the course of the year and will include up to 50 episodes that are approximately 3 - 5 minutes in length. The storyline will vary from the making of the Ford Shelby GT500 to our decision-making on future products and work to assemble them with improved quality and costs.

In the first episode, we set the stage for the business realities we face. In an upcoming episode, North America design chief Peter Horbury explains our Way Forward vision of bold, American design. In another episode, we visit an assembly plant to show the world the complexity of vehicle manufacturing.

Most people outside of the company never will have seen such an insider's view of the designing, engineering, manufacturing and selling of cars and trucks. We believe the public will be fascinated - and, at times, shocked by our candor. That's because this is not typical marketing or PR. It's not scripted or pre-planned. The documentary chronicles actual events as they happen.

I invite you and all employees to become regular viewers of the documentary and to encourage your family and friends to do the same. I am convinced that, once more people see how we are changing and how passionate we are about winning, the public increasingly will cheer us on and help lead us to success.
- Mark Fields
xxxxxxxx@ford.com

Bold Moves: Documentaring the future of Ford [fordboldmoves.com]

CAD Fiends!: Camaro Blueprint Leaked

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 26 Jun 2006 12:47:35 EDT

The new-Camaro watchers at Camaro5 procured some leaked shots of the next-generation Camaro, all blueprinted up and color coded for easy reference (ascertaining what the colors refer to is above our pay grade). Engineering geeks, however, have a wealth of information at hand. Click on with your pocket-protected selves.

New Camaro Blueprints Leaked [Camaro5]

Related:
More on the Chevrolet Camaro [internal]

Breaking! Dieter Brings "Step Two" To Daytona; SRT Included In Incentive Program?

Ray Wert — Mon, 26 Jun 2006 08:55:00 EDT

So if you're planning on picking up a Dodge Viper to tool around in this summer — you may want to hold off. Word on the street from no less than two sources is the Chrysler Group will include all models of vehicles — including the Dodge Viper and the entire SRT lineup — in the employee pricing plan. In addition, according to Joe Guy Collier in yesterday's Freep, Dieter Zetsche and Tom LaSorda will be in attendance at the Pepsi 400 on July 1st in Daytona. Although they're not saying what the two high-powered execs will be doing at a high-powered racing event, but our best guess is it's a tie-in of some sort to the "Street and Racing Technology" the SRT folks are all about. Gossip and a best bet? You bet — but that's the way we gotta roll sometimes.

Top DCX execs to attend Pepsi 400 [Freep]