VOLKSWAGEN'S CLEAN DIESELS ELIGIBLE FOR ALTERNATIVE MOTOR VEHICLE FEDERAL TAX CREDIT

Buyers of Volkswagen Jetta TDI vehicles eligible for a $1300 Federal Tax Credit

HERNDON, Va.-Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced that buyers of the Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen are eligible for a $1,300 Federal Income Tax Credit.

The Internal Revenue Service has issued a certification letter affirming that the vehicles qualify for the Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle income tax credit.

"The $1,300 tax credit provides an even greater value to the upcoming Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen," said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "Our clean diesel vehicles offer consumers the fuel efficiency that they're looking for while providing power, utility, performance, safety and excellent value." Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen showcase the best of both worlds, an alternative fuel vehicle with no compromises. Fuel efficiency, performance and convenience come standard with the 50-state compliant Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen models, which meet the most stringent emissions standards in California. Vehicles are currently available to test drive at local Volkswagen dealers, both models will be available for sale this August.

While the Environmental Protection Agency estimates the Jetta TDI at an economical 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway, Volkswagen went a step further to show real world fuel economy of the Jetta TDI. Leading third-party certifier, AMCI, tested the Jetta TDI and found it performed 24 percent better in real world conditions, achieving 38 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway.*

The Jetta TDI models come standard with Volkswagen's Prevent and Preserve Safety System, consisting of numerous standard safety features. Both the Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen include six airbags with optional rear side airbags and like all 2009 model year Volkswagens, Jetta TDIs also feature standard Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) for added safety.

Also standard for 2009 is Volkswagen's Carefree Maintenance Program, with this program there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle's maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty-three years or 36 000 miles whichever occurs first.

What It's Selling: Volkswagen Trucks

Where It's At: South America

What This Ad Literally Says: "Volkswagen Trucks. For every kind of load."

What This Ad Intends To Say: All of your consumer goods get delivered in a truck. We make trucks.

What This Ad Suggests: You need Volkswagen trucks like you need milk in your coffee.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Other than the unintentional innuendo with the mention of "load" and the creamy milk shot, it's a clean message and a sharp graphic. This is brand messaging, not intended to sell a particular vehicle but rather shore up awareness and positive feelings about VW trucks as a whole. Clever, clever. Another great one from the same series here

[Ads Of The World]

Details are sketchy, but the Star claims J.D. Power sources say suppliers are gearing up for an iteration of the Two-Mode Hybrid system used on the upcoming Durango/Aspen hybrids and shared with the Tahoe/Yukon hybrid. The report also states that a hybrid Toyota "Sierra" (which we're pretty sure means "Sienna") van is scheduled for 2010, and that diesel minivans from Honda and VW are on the near horizon.

Chrysler's foray into more-efficient vans could be as much for the company as for the consumer, since Chrysler remains near the back of the pack on total fleet fuel efficiency. Adding a hybrid van to the mix would be an effective (if expensive, on the order of $4,000 per unit) way to bump up CAFE numbers while older, larger models are being retooled or dropped completely.

Unlike Chrysler with its Two-Mode, and Toyota, who will presumably use a version of its Hybrid Synergy Drive in the Sienna Hybrid, Honda and VW are likely to exploit their diesel expertise in the Odyssey and Routan, respectively. Honda is reportedly readying a diesel Accord for 2009, providing it with a federally approved oilburner that could be used in Odyssey, while VW has access to its own diesels (which would be a bit small for minivan use) as well as the Mercedes Bluetec unit.

If the idea of a hybrid Grand Caravan or an Odyssey with 400 lb-ft of torque doesn't get you excited, hey, that's okay. What should get you excited is what's on display here: More evidence of the powertrain variety we can expect around the 2010/2011 model year. [Windsor Star]

VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA ANNOUNCES IT WILL PRODUCE CARS IN CHATTANOOGA; DECISION MARKS COMPANY'S ONGOING COMMITMENT TO NORTH AMERICAN MARKET

Company will invest $1 billion and bring about 2,000 direct jobs to tri-state area

HERNDON, Va. (July 15, 2008) - Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. announced today that it will build a U.S. automotive production facility in Chattanooga, Tenn., where it will produce a car designed specifically for the North American consumer and invest $1 billion in the economy. The announcement is an important element of the company's overall U.S. strategy of connecting with its customers, increasing its competitiveness and tripling its U.S. customer base in the next decade.

"The U.S. market is an important part of our volume strategy and we are now very resolutely accessing that market," said Prof. Martin Winterkorn, CEO of Volkswagen AG. "Volkswagen will be extremely active there. This plant represents a milestone in Volkswagen's growth strategy. We will be selling 800,000 Volkswagens in the U.S. by 2018, and this new site will play a key role. This, along with our growth strategy, is a prerequisite for the economic success of the company in the dollar region. We look forward to establishing an important mainstay for ourselves when we become the biggest European carmaker there."

"This is a significant step forward in achieving our goals in the U.S. market and a clear sign of the Volkswagen Group's commitment to the North American consumer. Today's decision is a fundamental part of our new strategic direction in the U.S. and our five-pillar strategy," said Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. "Chattanooga is an excellent fit for the Volkswagen culture, having an exceptional quality of life and a long manufacturing tradition."

The company will build the facility in the Enterprise South Industrial Park, located 12 miles northeast of downtown Chattanooga. The 1,350-acre site is 100 percent owned by the city of Chattanooga and Hamilton County and is certified as an industrial megasite by the Tennessee Valley Authority. Enterprise South is adjacent to Interstate 75. Initial production capacity for the facility is anticipated to be 150,000 vehicles, including a new midsize sedan designed specifically for the North American market. Production is scheduled to begin in early 2011.

"I'm enormously pleased by the announcement from Volkswagen Group of America and grateful for the company's investment in Chattanooga and in the people of Tennessee," said Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen. "I believe Volkswagen chose Tennessee because of our shared values, our commitment to innovation and our strong respect for the environment. This project will have a significant impact on the economy of Tennessee and the region for decades to come."

"I couldn't be more pleased that the spirit of partnership between the state of Tennessee, Volkswagen and the government and business leadership of Chattanooga and Hamilton County has resulted in this significant investment in Enterprise South," said Matt Kisber, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. "Volkswagen's investment in this community means the hard work and dedication demonstrated by people at the state and local level to create one of the best business climates in the country is paying off."

"We started with a vision of transforming an idle Army facility into the source of thousands of family-wage jobs," said Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey. "Over the last 14 years, I've worked with four different city mayors as well as county commissioners, city councilmen and countless others in overcoming barriers and objections to that plan. Today, we stand with our new friends from Volkswagen to make a historic announcement that will create new opportunities for our community for years to come."

"Volkswagen and Chattanooga have a lot in common," said Chattanooga City Mayor Ron Littlefield. "Both are serious about environmental sustainability and 21st Century manufacturing."

Environmental responsibility is a core value of the Volkswagen Group. The company's focus on sustainable mobility and environmentally responsible manufacturing are right in line with Chattanooga's strong environmental commitment. As an expression of this shared commitment, the state of Tennessee, Volkswagen and Chattanooga-area organizations are partnering to distribute two saplings for every tree displaced by the project. The new trees will be planted by local school children.

According to United States Sen. Bob Corker, who was mayor of Chattanooga when the city and Hamilton County acquired the land and established Enterprise South as an industrial park, the Volkswagen announcement represents a new chapter in Chattanooga's success story. "Through twists and turns, our community has maintained focus, invested wisely and exercised tremendous effort and energy in recruiting a major employer to Enterprise South. The breaking of this final barrier and the realization of the vision to which we have held true will take us to levels we can only begin to imagine," said Corker.

He continued, "Volkswagen is the very best manufacturer and partner we could possibly have in terms of our shared values, and as a result of their enormous investment, not only will Chattanooga be forever changed, but our entire state will reap great benefits from the new suppliers that this facility will attract to the region. I am proud to have been part of a dedicated team that has worked seamlessly on this effort and celebrate this outstanding achievement for our city and our state."

United States Sen. Lamar Alexander praised Volkswagen's decision to locate at Enterprise South, saying, "Volkswagen and Chattanooga, the ideal marriage: one of the world's most admired companies and one of America's most livable cities. This decision keeps Tennessee on the road to becoming the No. 1 state in auto jobs. Congratulations especially to Gov. Bredesen, Sen. Corker and Mayors Ramsey and Littlefield for their leadership," Alexander concluded.

"Over the past seven months, more than 100 Tennesseans at the local, state and federal level have worked odd hours on short deadlines to help us reach this day," said Trevor Hamilton, vice president of economic development for the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce. "From this day forward, we dedicate ourselves to partnering with Volkswagen to move from construction to production as quickly as possible. We will unify our team with Volkwagen's to ensure long-term success for the company, our community and the state of Tennessee."

With the new plant, Volkswagen will bring about 2,000 direct jobs to the area, and will add a significant number of jobs in related sectors. It is expected that these jobs will come from the tri-state area, pulling from the labor force of Tennessee as well as Georgia and Alabama. Volkswagen of America received an attractive, comprehensive package of incentives for the new facility from Gov. Bredesen's office and the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. The statutory incentives are tied to job creation and capital investment. Additional support includes assistance for public infrastructure and job training, each designed to ensure the local economy best leverages Volkswagen's investment to benefit the local work force and ensure the facility's success.

"This area has a deep base of well-trained labor, with excellent engineering and manufacturing programs at the universities and technical colleges," added Jacoby. "Thanks to the visionary leaders and people of Chattanooga, we're confident that the values of this area are compatible with our own, and we envision a long and productive partnership."

Last year, Volkswagen outlined a new strategic direction in the U.S. based on five pillars: product, brand positioning, dealer network, organization and local production. As it moved forward to assess the potential for local production, the company considered many other site options and earlier this year had narrowed its search to Alabama, Michigan and Tennessee.

"We reviewed three excellent sites, all of which had the specific qualities necessary to build a plant in the United States," said Jacoby. "Both Gov. Granholm and Gov. Riley were strong advocates on behalf of their states and the citizens they represent. This was a difficult decision, but we look forward to continuing our relationships with both states. I thank both governors and their staffs."

[Source: VW]

They've introduced three concepts (and re-shown the Up!) on display at Volkswagen2028.com, the Room, Ego, and One. But frankly, the cars themselves are less interesting than the concepts behind them. Obviously, you've got the usual PR propaganda of hybrid this and low-emissions that, sprinkled with talk of alternative fuels. Then there's the futuristic seating configurations, four seats facing each other in the Room, and a single-seater pod in the One. Oh, and don't forget that the car will drive itself, which will of course completely eliminate accidents when part of an all-knowing mobiliy network in which all automobiles intelligently interact. Of course, that's assuming either that all sort of different cars will be mandated to interact on the same network, or that all cars will be from the same manufacturer. Don't be scared, VW knows what's good for you. It'll be interesting to see how close, if at all, the future will actually be to VW's vision. Call us old fashioned, but we'd rather just drive our old clunkers than be driven around by some robo-car with a fancy color-changing shell.
[Volkswagen 2028 via CarBodyDesign]

If you're worried you'd never be able to own a car this stylish and functional, one of the blogs pointed out that this car is likely based on the Volkswagen Santana, which is just the Chinese version of the B2 Passat. Project car anyone? [Blog.Sina.com via The Tycho]

Could you imagine what our drug dealers would do with one of these? Picture 30" chrome rims, TVs everywhere, and all of it scraping the road with zero ground clearance. Not pretty. If you're a drug dealer reading this, please do not have one of these imported from South America with your next shipment.
[via autoblog.nl]

(Hat tip to Jeffrey!) [Lego]

The straw that broke the camel's back was apparently a study that showed there wasn't a market in Europe for a vehicle with a "huge loading space," which seems to totally miss the point. After all, most people in this country buy trucks absent any overriding need for any of the space features they offer. [Forbes]

If one where to go out on a limb, news like this bolsters the talk of a VW/KTM partnership to produce the car using KTM's expertise in low production numbers and carbon fiber fabrication. We'll have to see if the rumors of this radical, top secret project have any weight to them, but a jet-canopied, carbon fiber, hypermileage rule breaker would certainly spice up the pending 2010 mileage wars. [Car via WCF]

It turns out that the tire separated from the truck and then made contact with this very thrashed Camaro Z28, which acted as the perfect ramp with which to launch the tire into the dealership. That's what's happening just as the video begins. As far as we know, this is the extent of the damage from one seriously wicked (possibly possessed) tire.

Like so many daily-driven beater Beetles, this one got hit and had some replacement body parts installed... then never painted. Why bother when it will just get hit again? That's thinking long-term.


You used to see a lot more Beetles with spacers on the engine lid, to improve cooling. There's no factory temperature gauge or idiot light in these cars, so generally your first warning that terrible overheating is taking place involves frying a valve or piston in the #3 cylinder (the one with airflow blocked by the oil cooler). Remember those big RVEECO external oil coolers?


With 53 rampaging horsepower, the '69 was one of the more powerful Type 1s. You could buy a new '69 Beetle for $1,799. No automobile made in Detroit (or Kenosha) could even come close to that price; a 1969 AMC Rambler listed at $1,998, and the '69 Ford Maverick sold for three bucks less. A new '69 Datsun 510 was a little closer, at $1,896. The King of Cheap in 1969, however, was the Fiat 850 sedan, with a $1,466 price tag. Hey, it's Friday- let's have a DOTS Of The Week poll! Vote for the street-parked Alameda vehicle you liked the best; I'm predicting a Monte Carlo-M6 battle here, but perhaps the Mitsubishi van will get enough weirdness points to take the win.

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Well, Volkswagen will work with the German government in experimenting with a fleet of 20 Twin Drive Golfs in 2010. Though evidently the Twin Drive just isn't green enough as is, so to further reduce emissions, the electrical energy required to charge the batteries of the experimental fleet will be generated from green resources such as windmills and hydro-electric dams. Of course, there are no plans for US export, or for any production at all at this point. But even though we're more easily excited about speed than with being green, we would totally rock one of these as a daily driver.
[carscoop, MotorAuthority]

Not surprisingly, technologies not readily available in the U.S. didn't fare well on the study. For example, clean diesel engines barely registered a blip, in large part because they're just entering the market. Said Mike Marshall, director of the study: "The mere fact that they'll be in the marketplace is going to raise the awareness level of clean diesel, and I think that will begin to crack some of these wrong perceptions of what diesel is today."

While clean diesel is already chosen by a majority of European buyers, it remains to be seen whether economies of scale allow it to be implemented in the States at a lower price premium than that found on hybrids; new offerings from VW, Mercedes, and even Honda in the next 12 months should provide some insight into diesel pricing strategy. Additionally, as hybrid sales numbers rise, the same economies of scale should allow prices to fall. But, for either to happen, first some folks have to pony up the premium. Chicken, meet egg.
[Automotive News (Sub. Req.)]

Stanley was developed by Stanford University's School of Engineering with input from Volkswagen, MDV-Mohn Davidow Ventures and Intel. It's completely autonomous, meaning it requires no driver, making its completion of the 132-mile Mojave Desert course in a little less than seven hours at an average speed of 19.1 mph all the more impressive. Technology developed for Stanley has helped advance technologies being used by vehicles today, including adaptive cruise control and electronic stabilization.
[Gizmag]

Thankfully, no one was hurt and the security camera was in place to catch the incident, the aftermath and the owner of the dealership using all seven words you can't say on TV (yes, we're sad we lost George Carlin, too). And thanks to TexasAreHot for sharing this incredible video. [Source: YouTube]

EAGERLY-AWAITED SCIROCCO SPORTS COUPÉ AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW

Customers keen to be among the first to drive away a new Scirocco can officially add their names to the waiting list as the car becomes available to order at Volkswagen Retailers across the UK today. Prices for the new car, which goes on sale on 1 September, have also been announced and start at £20,940 RRP on the road for the launch model, the Scirocco GT 2.0-litre TSI with 200 PS.

The original Scirocco was first seen 34 years ago, and over two generations and 19 years a total of 77,460 Sciroccos were sold in the UK. Now the new model blows in, with equally distinctive coupé styling, a practical hatchback boot, four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive - yet this is the most technically advanced production coupé that Volkswagen has produced.

All UK models benefit from Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) which operates via a set of four electrically adjustable dampers to alter the car's suspension, steering and throttle response set-up, and allows the driver to choose the most appropriate setting for the journey. Normal is the default; Sport adds firmer suspension and sharper responses for twisty roads or track driving; while Comfort offers a smooth and controlled ride best suited to motorway trips.

At launch, all Sciroccos will be powered by a 2.0-litre TSI 200 PS engine with either a six-speed manual or automatic DSG gearbox. Versions with a DSG 'box will command a £1,330 premium over their manual counterparts. The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine - already popular in the Golf GTI - produces 207 lbs ft of torque from 1,700 rpm and allows the Scirocco to achieve a 0 to 62 mph time of 7.2 seconds before reaching a top speed of 146 mph. The combined economy figure for the vehicle is 37.2 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 179 g/km.

Early in 2009 a further two engines will join the Scirocco line-up: a 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS petrol and a 2.0-litre TDI common rail diesel unit with 140 PS and a combined economy of around 52 mpg. Both will come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.4-litre TSI will also be offered with Volkswagen's new seven-speed DSG 'box.

Two trim levels will be available - standard Scirocco and Scirocco GT. The launch engine is only available in combination with GT trim, giving customers a high level of standard specification which includes ABS with ESP, six airbags, touchscreen CD autochanger, climate control, 18-inch 'Interlagos' alloy wheels, front foglights and a multifunction steering wheel among a host of other items. Options are set to include a panoramic tilt sunroof, leather trim and touchscreen satellite navigation.

Volkswagen UK predicts sales of 3,350 Sciroccos this year, rising to around 9,000 in 2009 when a full line-up is available. Already over 11,000 people have signed up via www.volkswagen.co.uk to receive email updates on the new Scirocco model.

THE PEOPLE WANT BETTER FUEL ECONOMY WITH NO COMPROMISES HERNDON, Va.—Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced pricing for their eagerly anticipated Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen starting at $21,990 and $23,590, respectively. Fuel efficiency, performance and convenience all come standard with the 50-state compliant Jetta sedan and SportWagen TDI, which meet the most stringent emissions standards in California and the world. Both models will be available this August.

"Our clean diesel vehicles offer consumers a true value with the fuel efficiency that drivers are looking for while providing power, utility and performance," said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "The Jetta TDI's offer a no compromise alternative fuel driving experience."

While the Environmental Protection Agency estimates the Jetta TDI at an economical 29 mpg City and 40 mpg Highway, Volkswagen went a step further to show the true fuel economy of the Jetta TDI. Leading third-party certifier, AMCI, has tested the Jetta TDI and found it performed 24 percent better in real world conditions, achieving 38 mpg in the City and 44 mpg on the Highway.*

The Jetta TDI's come standard with Volkswagen's Prevent and Preserve Safety System, consisting of numerous standard safety features. Jetta TDI's include six airbags, with optional rear side airbags, and like all 2009 model year Volkswagens, Jetta TDI's also feature standard Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) for added safety.

Also standard for 2009 is Volkswagen's carefree maintenance program, with this program there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle's maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty—three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

[Source: VW]

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Given that the Chinese auto market has yet to cool, this is probably more a matter of the Mondeo not fairing well against the other sedans it is normally pitted against. At this price level it is competitive with the very similar 2009 Mazda6 and the Volkswagen Passat. Either way, Ford wants to take advantage of that thirsty market. [China Car Times]

In agreeing with your sentiments from yesterday, a good road trip vehicle should:

1.) Embrace the inevitable discomfort and uncertainty that comes on a long trip
2.) Have a degree of iconic style, so that when you're looking back at snapshots of the trip, you have that warm and fuzzy feeling of nostalgia
3.) Be equipped with at least four doors — how else can you do a Chinese Fire Drill at a stoplight?

With that in mind, we submit to you, in no particular order, the World's Best Road Trip Vehicles.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon JTD
Because most vacations are supposed to be a getaway from hectic everyday life, why not have a car with the same philosophy? You don't need to go to Italy, Italy can come to you! The Alfa offers the same sort of romance you'd get from a Maserati, but with more practicality and a fraction of the cost. With the 1.9-liter turbo diesel, you'll get nearly 39 MPG, or you can get a 2.4-liter version with a bit more power. But above all, it's beautiful. No need to go out of your way sightseeing, because the Alfa will make every stop a photo-op, even without a scenic vista in the background.

Peugeot 308 HDi
With fuel economy the name of the game, you can't ignore the Peugeot 308 HDi. This was the car of choice for the Guinness Book of World Records hypermiling inductees, who averaged over 75 MPG in their unnecessary quest to use as little fuel as necessary. Of course, to get those kind of MPGs, you'll have to travel at a snail's pace, but remember, it's all about the journey! The little French miser is also available in 3-door hatch or station wagon body styles, and comes with either a 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine.

Fiat Panda 100HP

This is the perfect example of a practical, efficient and fun-to-drive European small car. And by small we mean that it's not even as long or wide as a Chevy Aveo; however, it is taller, and thus has good head and leg room for both front and rear passengers. Despite its boxy shape, the Panda is anything but boring. That's because the 100 HP model has key features, like a 6-speed gearbox and grippy tires, in keeping with the tradition of Euro superminis known to be true driver's cars. If your budget road trip involves carving through twisty country roads, the Panda will deliver roller-coaster thrills, eliminating the need to buy tickets to the amusement park. Best of all, that 16-valve 1.4-liter engine will easily return over 30 MPG, even with spirited driving. [source]

Volkswagen California
So, you want to save cash by avoiding hotels, but you don't want to cross the continent in an RV the size of a blue whale? May we suggest a modern camper van such as the VW California? Coming from the factory with a pop-up roof and a pull-out awning, it even saves you from having to buy a tent. Don't want to spend money eating at roadside restaurants? No problem: the California even has a kitchen. Of course, this being a VW van, the kitchen is essential for any, ahem, baking that goes on. Most importantly, the 2.5-liter inline-five turbo-diesel engine gets about 27 MPG, which isn't bad for a studio apartment on wheels. [source]

Volkswagen Citi Golf
Remember the good ol' days of motoring simplicity? Yeah, maybe they weren't so good. But if you don't mind rekindling memories of cramming into a tiny hatchback with your buddies during the original gas crisis of the early '70s, look no further than the VW Citi Golf. Yes, this is a new car, and no, your eyes do not deceive you: The Citi is essentially the original Mk.1 Golf/Rabbit, and it has continued to roll off an assembly line in South Africa for decades. The fuel-injected 1.4 and 1.6-liter gasoline engines will return around 38 MPG on the highway, and prices start at the equivalent of under $10,000.

Renault Espace
The people carrier of choice in Europe, the Renault Espace gives a view of the road to all seven passengers that a full-size SUV can only dream of. Sure, you don't tower over people like you might in an Expedition, but you don't have the horrible fuel economy either. What you do get is an interior available with any entertainment option you could want, surrounded by big panoramic windows and a massive available sunroof. The entire package merely sips fuel, to the tune of a gallon every 31 miles or so if you opt for the 2.0-liter diesel.

Geely TX4 London Taxi
A staple of England, and a novelty to the rest of the world, the London Taxi now has a version being cranked out by Chinese automaker Geely. Powered by a 2.4-liter diesel engine, the cab is sure to be economical. Plus, if you find yourself running dry on cash along the way, why not just pick up a fare and charge a premium? If 28 Days Later was any indication, these things should be great in the event of a Rage virus outbreak, meaning the TX4 is the perfect car if you come across hitchhikers or zombies. Just not both. [source]

So, no matter where you are in the world, there are great vehicles in which to embark on a road trip — and most of them are better choices than what we've got here. These are just a handful, but what do you want to take on your next Fantasyland road trip?

How much do you have to pay for a rare European rally car steeped in 1960s and 1970s racing history from one of the most famous races in North America? More than you could ever afford, of course. But wait! An unaccountable distortion in the Vintage Race Car Reality Field (VRCRF) has produced this 1963 Peugeot 404 Baja 1000 veteran. How can we tell the VRCRF was involved? The $1,200 price tag. No, really- just barely over a thousand bucks; in fact, the seller states "No Reasonable Offer Will Be Refused!!!" so you might be able to get it for under a grand! Of course, you'll have a Sisyphean ordeal somewhat challenging road in front of you with this project, since the car has been sitting for 34 years and the engine is long gone. That shouldn't stop you, however- it's a rear-wheel-drive car, so the junkyard is overflowing with suitable engines that could be swapped right in without too much trouble. BMW M10? Toyota A? Is the suspension good? Probably not! Is anything on this car good? Who knows? Once you've got it running, however, it'll be time to head to the desert for some vintage dirt-eating adventure! Thanks, once again, to PCH ÜberTipster LTDScott.

When you're going racing in Baja California, don't you want a vehicle with "Baja" in its name? Ah, the ol' Baja Bug! Remember when you used to see them doing daily-driver duty all over the Southwest? The air-cooled Beetle in stock form is no slouch off-road- no radiator to boil over, most of the weight over the drive wheels, and so on- but put nerf bars, roll cage, and big tires on it and you'll be ready to leave tire tracks across the backs of the most elusive endangered species in the desert! To be vintage, however, you need an oval-window Beetle for your Baja Bug project...and have you priced 1953-57 Beetles lately? Fortunately for you, we've managed to find this '57 Beetle that's already well on its way to Baja-ness. You get a significant fraction of a 1776cc engine and "many other parts," and all for just $1,400! Old VWs have the dubious distinction of being the only cars that manage to get terrible rust in Southern California, so you have to figure on some pan rot to deal with. While you're shopping for your great big wheels, roof-mounted oil cooler, sixer of Primo Beer, and lid of Acapulco Gold, you'll have plenty of time to contemplate stuffing a Roots-type blower on the engine, just like yesterday's PCH Beetle!

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Editor-in-Chief

It took a bit of poking and prodding, but we managed to round up four "green" track cars for the Grassroots Motorsports Ultimate Track Car Challenge on Sunday. We have two Jetta TDIs—the Chili Pepper Racing TDI and the Kerma TDI. We'll also have the AC Propulsion eBox, which currently holds the 1/8th mile record with the National Electric Drag Racing Association for a street conversion. And finally, we have the Organic Racing Lotus 7 replica (an E85-powered WCM Ultralite S2K). These four will compete to see who's the fastest, and who's the greenest. Stay tuned for full coverage of Sunday's event at Buttonwillow.

Any Peugeot 403 stands on its own as a Hell Project, but what do you get when you restore one? You get 65 horsepower, that's what! Clearly, some added motivation is needed here, and what better choice than the good ol' small-block Chevy? Can you fit one in a 403? Yes, indeed- just ask the guy who's already done most of the work on this 1961 Peugeot 403, which is already set up for Chevy power. Hell, The General himself will sell you a brand-new crate motor today! Then all you'll need to do... hey, hold on- did we say the seller has already done most of the work? Perhaps we were a bit hasty there, but lots of stuff has been done. You get front and rear suspension, a narrowed Ford 9-inch rear, and "tons of parts in the car, more than I can list." In a break from PCH tradition, we've got a seller who appears to know what he's doing in the garage, which means you'll be in for dozens instead of hundreds of sanity-puncturing surprises as you attempt to finish the job.

Small-block Peugeots are fine and all, but all the weight is on the front of the car instead of over the drive wheels. Not good! That's why the real Project Hell Hoon goes for an air-cooled VW, for a virtually weightless car that provides tons of exciting oversteering fun. Like, say, what you'd get with this 1974 Volkswagen Beetle with supercharged 2110cc engine, on sale now with an asking price of $3,500. I've owned a few stupidly overpowered performance-upgraded Beetles, and by some miracle I'm still here to tell you that the handling and braking characteristics of such a vehicle are, uh, interesting. Yes, that's the word I was looking for! So, you've got a car that weighed 1,831 pounds new, hack 400 pounds of unnecessary crap out of it, and then you replace the 46-horsepower 1600 with a howling supercharged unit belting out four or five times as much power (when it's not burning valves or blowing cylinder heads completely off the vehicle, that is). Was the engine built right? What kind of fuel-delivery system (if any) do you get? Is your life insurance paid up?

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The popular VW-Audi fourbanger is available only in SEL trim level, available with either a 6-speed manual ($25,990) or the 6-speed DSG ($27,090). The SEL is loaded top-to-bottom with every feature you'd find on the top-level Jetta. While we don't have a price yet on the TDI, we think we've figured out how VW is going to make it price-competitive. If you stroll through the features list, you'll notice the TDI doesn't get the dual-zone climate, the 17-inch alloys, premium sound or other features as standard. We're guessing the price of the TDI is going to fall somewhere between SE and SEL trim in the $23-$26K range. Still interested?

[Price, Spces via Motive Forums]

Jalopnik: Where did you get this idea? David Levine: I got the idea for the project from my brother's work and from readings being done in the field. My brother's undergraduate thesis work is in the area of using algae to treat wastewater, and in so doing, make oil. We modified that a bit to the current project.

J: What are the steps needed to produce this biofuel?
D: Step 1: Culture algae in varying media to optimize its growth
Step 2: Design & build photobioreactors (the large tank-like structures that the algae grow in)
Step 3: After sufficient growth, harvest algae
Step 4: Extract algae oil
Step 5: Chemically modify oil into biodiesel (transesterification)

J: How did the students react to the project?
DL: Student reactions were varied, but almost all positive. This was an incredibly authentic learning piece for them that truly affects their day-to-day life. As a result, engagement was high, completion of the project and report was above average, and students continually remarked that what they were learning and doing mattered. Ciera Rice, one of my students, showed up in a green shirt, green pants, green jacket, green hair tie, and green stickers on her cheeks.

J: How big was the grant you got from BP?
DL: The A+ For Energy grant was for $10,000. The grant has covered most major expenses. Incidental costs have been covered by me. There's no doubt, however, that the grant has morphed my classroom. You walk in and the equipment resembles that available in the suburbs.

J: What was your biggest surprise with the project?
I was most surprised by the ease with which the students took to a green mindset. Discussions about a carbon footprint or about reducing one's hours behind the wheel would have been taboo a few months ago. Now they're something about which my students feel empowered and ready to act on... even if they still make fun of me for riding my bike to school.

J: What were the biggest challenges?
DL: Harvesting and extraction. Once perfected for industry, the harvesting process will probably require a continuous flow centrifuge to concentrate the algae. Even the greenest algae you saw in my room is still about 99% water. Concentrating the algae is key to a successful extraction and yield (because water can wreak havoc on the chemical reaction, depending on your extraction method). The extraction procedure in itself still requires fine-tuning for an industrial scale process. This project certainly did not solve those issues, but it did experiment with one wet extraction procedure that has not yet been published.

J: How has this impacted your students?
D: I've touched on the impact a bit already above, but I also think that this project has given them the opportunity to enter in to and engage in the green movement like few other high schoolers do. I firmly believe that the green movement will be successful at attacking eco-equity issues through technological innovation, and my kids now have a leg up in that race. I'm looking forward to seeing them come back from college armed with new ideas and skills that will revitalize our community.

J: You seem tired and friends have told me you've not been getting much sleep...
DL: I sleep about 4 hours every night during the week. So, that's about 4 hours a day of lost sleep, a staggering sleep debt that's probably keeping me from properly expressing myself right now.

(Ed Note: As a matter of full disclosure, my fiancee is in the Teach For America program so I probably have some bias towards it.)

The Idea
David Levine, a second-year teacher placed in Chicago through the Teach For America program, faced a common problem: how to get students to take the same interest in their studies as in Grand Theft Auto IV. His school, the Al Raby School for Community and Environment, serves populations from the predominately African American neighborhoods on Chicago's West Side, a place where the median income is more than 40% lower than the city as a whole. How could he motivate his students to invest their time and interest in the scientific process?

Levine settled on one of the biggest issues facing this generation of students: the impact, both environmental and political, of our dependence on foreign sources of fuel. According to the UN Human Development Reports, the US emits 21% of the world's carbon dioxide despite having only 4.6% of the world's population. We're currently engaged in our second war in the oil-rich Middle East. Using these issues as a starting point, Levine sought a project that would address the problems while at the same time providing