Term of the Day

Dual Braking System - A design to prevent complete loss of braking power in the case of a hydraulic or other brake failure. A dual braking system divides the four wheels into either front and rear or diagonal front/rear pairs with independent hydraulic circuits.

-Anthony Alaniz

Kia to Launch Ford Sync Rival at the C.E.S.

Kia is launching its own voice-controlled infotainment system next week at the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas. Kia's system is called UVO and is based off the same Microsoft Windows Automotive Embedded software that is used in the Ford Sync system. Ford's contract was exclusive, though it ended late in 2008. Expect the Koran automaker to have unique features, along with voice command and Bluetooth technology.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Left Lane News]

Saab Not Dead Yet, and 9-5 Production to Start

Apparently GM is having a difficult time deciding what to do with its Swedish counterpart Saab. GM has taken away the December 31 deadline for taking bids for its Saab brand. GM is also restarting production lines to produce the new Saab 9-5.

Spyker Cars CEO Victor Mullen said he still hopes to win the bid for Saab and has extended Spyker's bid until January 7.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Saab 9-5 from egmCarTech)

[Source: Reuters)

Car Fact of the Day

The Lamborghini Gallardo, Lamborghini's most produced model (5,000 units in the first 3 years of production), is named after after a famous breed of fighting bull. The word gallardo in Spanish means "gallant," while in Italian it means "striking." Gallant also comes with a striking price tag; each Gallardo is roughly priced between $180,000 to $210,000.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 2006 Verde Ithaca Lamborghini Gallardo SE)

New Compact Aston Martin Only Available to Aston Owners

If you were looking at getting your hands on the new Aston Martin compact, the Cygnet, you need to have another Aston sitting in your garage. Aston Martin is only selling the new Cygnet to those who currently own another Aston Martin model.

The Aston Martin Cygnet, based on the Toyota iQ, is powered by a 1.3L, 97 horse power engine. Aston Martin is producing 2,000 units with the price starting around $35,000.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Aston Martin Cygnet from egmCarTech)

[Source: New York Times Wheels Blog]

Video of the Day: Amature Lamborghini Commercial

Car Fact of the Day

In 1910 Cadillac was the first volume automotive manufacturer to offer a fully enclosed cabin. In 1912 Cadillac began to incorporate an electrical system into their vehicles that allowed starting, ignition, and lighting.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 1903 Cadillac)

Video of the Day: BMW Performance Release

2011 Mustang 5.0 GT Full Details

At 12:01AM on December 28, Ford announced the full details of the 2011 Mustang GT. The new power plant is the 5.0L V8 that has been rumored for some time now. It will produce 412 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The new engine is also matted to two new transmission; either a six-speed manual, or six-speed automatic that will deliver around 25 miles per gallon on the highway. The 5.0L engine was designed with TI-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft timing) to increase power and fuel efficiency. A track pack is also offered with a strut tower brace and Brembo brakes. Large 5.0 badges will adore the fenders of the new Mustang. With the Mustang being, hopefully, cheaper, faster and more fuel efficient, it will give Chevy and Dodge a run for the quickest E/T times. Now we have to see what Shelby will do for 2011. Expect the 2011 Mustang GT to go on sale in the spring of 2010.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2011 Ford Mustang from Autoblog)

[Source: Autoblog]

Big 3 Hold Full-Sized Pickups Market

In the first 11 months of 2009, full-sized pickup truck sales declined 31.2 percent. Though there has been a demand for smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles, full-size trucks still make up around 20 percent of the market. In 2009 Detroit automakers sold 91 percent of all full-sized pickups during this period. Dealers are looking at a large rebound in 2010 as foreign competition like Toyota and Nissan have failed to capture a large segment of the market.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: The Free Press]

MINI E Range Decline in Cold Weather

According to a report by the Washington Post, there are many MINI E drivers that are noticing a decline in their driving range in colder weather. The average decline is around 20 percent, though some drivers are seeing significantly larger losses. A driver in New Jersey was left stranded after only going 55 miles, while the car is advertised as having a 100 mile range.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: GM-Volt]

EPA and Stop-Start Technology

It appears that the EPA's testing methods is hurting automakers from introducing stop-start technology in vehicles in the United States. The technology, which is popular throughout the world, turns off the car's engine when the vehicle is stopped and the driver applies the brake. The issue with the EPA is that its current city driving test only include one complete stop. This test makes the stop-start technology appear to have no affect on fuel economy. This technology is an added cost to consumers, and with no marketing strategy, has forced automakers to keep the technology out of U.S vehicles. The EPA is currently looking at making some changes to give vehicles with stop-start technology a higher rating, though a final decision is not expected until April of 2010.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: emgCarTech]

Term of the Day

Fuel Injector - The mechanical or electromechanical device that meters fuel into the cylinder in a fuel injected engine.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Fuel Injector from Dynotechonline.com)

PickupTrucks.com Top 10 Trucks of the Past Decade

Pickuptrucks.com has announced its list of the decades best pickup trucks. There are a few surprises so see if your favorite made the list.

• 2000 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab
• 2001 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra HD w/ 6.6L Duramax Diesel
• 2002 Chevy Avalanche
• 2004 Nissan Titan
• 2005 Toyota Tacoma
• 2005 Honda Ridgeline
• 2007 Toyota Tundra
• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2009 Ford F-150 (Most Significant 2000-2009)
• 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

Honerable Mention:

• 2001 Ford Explorer Sprot Trac
• 2009 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra Two Mode Hybrid

Click the Source link to see the top 10's significance and why they were chosen.

-Anthony Alaniz

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

GM Recalls 2005 to 2007 Corvettes

GM has recalled all 2005 to 2007 Corvettes that have a removable top due to adhesive failure. This causes the outer roof panel to separate from the Corvette's roof frame and fly off, possibly causing injuries or property Damage. All 22,090 2005 to 2007 Corvette owner's are being advised to go to their local dealerships and get a new roof replacement.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Video of the Day: 2011 Mustang GT 5.0

Car Fact of the Day

The Chevrolet Camaro was introduced on June 28, 1966 in Detroit at a press conference. When the Camaro name was introduced, the automotive press asked the GM product managers "What is a Camaro?" and were told that it was "a small, vicious animal that eats Mustangs."

-Anthony Alaniz

Toyota Introducing Smaller Hybrid

Toyota is moving closer to produce a smaller, and more affordable, hybrid. The new hybrid is expected to be released January 11 at the North American International Auto Show. Production of the subcompact hybrid is expected to start in late 2011 and reach U.S. dealerships in 2012. Toyota is expecting to sell 150,000 units of the subcompact hybrid each year. Toyota is planning to offer a hybrid version for each vehicle in their lineup.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: The Detroit News]

Term of the Day

Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) - An engine where one overhead camshaft operates all the valves of a given cylinder head.

-Anthony Alaniz

Mazda RX-7 to Replace RX-8

In order to compete with the new slew of Japanese rear wheel drive vehicles, like the Toyota FT-89, Mazda is introducing the Mazda RX-7. The RX-7 will use the new Renesis 16x rotary engine. The engine is capable of producing 350 horsepower and 215 pound-feet of torque. The output will be limited to 200-250 range in order to keep the price around $25,000. The RX-7 is intended to replace the slow selling and expensive RX-8.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Mazda Renesis 16x Rotary Engine from Inside Line)

[Source: egmCarTech]

Video of the Day: The Fast and the Famous

Contact Us

First, We would like to thank you for stopping by and catching up on some of the auto industry's latest news.

Secondly, you can now follow Auto Watch 411 on Myspace at myspace.com/autowatch411. We also have a Facebook fan page. Just add us by searching for Auto Watch 411. And of course you can always contact us at autowatch411@gmail.com. We appreciate your comments and questions, so please feel free to contact us.

Thank you,
Anthony Alaniz
Executive Editor

Term of the Day

Energy-Absorbing Steering Column - A steering column that is designed to collapse during a sever frontal impact to help minimize rearward movement of the column and steering wheel into the driver.

-Anthony Alaniz

New Chevy Camaro Designer Leaving

Sangyup Lee is leaving GM in mid-January for a position at the Volkswagen/Audi Advanced studio in California. His new position is Chief designer of Exterior at his new company. Lee had worked with GM for 10 years, working on such projects as the 2010 retro looking Camaro along with the 50th Anniversary Stingray concept. Lee is also credited with the design of the C6 Corvette.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Lee and the 2010 Camaro from Car Design News)

[Source: Car Design News)

Toyota Under Investigation

It appears that Toyota has had a history of covering up recalls and other defects that go as far back as 2003. In 2003 there was an issue with a panel that could become dislodged and cause unintended acceleration in some Toyota Sienna minivans. The part was fixed after 26,000 units were produced though a there was not a recall until six years later. In 2004 there was a steering issue with the Toyota 4Runner. The car was recalled in Japan, though a recall in the U.S. did not occur until 2005.

Toyota's current issues is with cars accelerating out of control. Toyota has been known to pay off owners who filed complaints about unintended acceleration issues after they signed a non-disclosure act. Some dealerships have been reported buying back cars from customers who complained about the unintended acceleration only to sell them to other customers.

In January, Jeff Pepski had his car examined by a Toyota expert. The Toyota employee downloaded data from the vehicle computers. When Pepski asked for a copy he was denied. Pepski later traded the car in after filing a complaint with the NHTSA. According to records the car was later resold in Minnesota.

Currently the NHTSA is looking into a braking issue with the third generation Toyota Prius. Owners have filed multiple complaints about difficulty braking when going over pot holes and other road obstacles.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: LA Time and Left Lane News]

Car Fact of the Day

Fiat, standing for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino, (Italian Automobile Factory of Turin), is an automobile manufacturer, engine manufacturer, financial and industrial group based in Italy. Fiat was founded in 1899 by a group of investors. Fiat has also manufactured railroad vehicles, tanks, and aircraft. Fiat has holdings in Maserait, Lancia Automobiles, Alfa Romero Automobiles, and a 85 percent stake in Ferrari, though Ferrari is ran autonomously.

-Anthony Alaniz

Test Drive New GM Models at the 2010 NAIAS

GM believes its new models are better than ever, and to prove it to the customers, GM is offering auto show visitors a chance to test drive some of their new cars. GM, the city of Detroit, and COBO officials are working together to set up a test route for consumers to test drive the new GM products. Test drives at auto shows are not uncommon, with Cadillac piloting a program at the New England Auto Show earlier this year with great success.

-Anthony Alaniz

[Source: The Detroit News]

Ferrari 599 Hybrid

Ferrari is apparently planning on unveiling its new concept of the 599 Hybrid at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The 599 Hybrid Concept will contain lithium-ion batteries and an electric-motor that will deliver supercar performance. Fuel economy is expected to improve by 35 percent, from 9 mpg to 14 mpg.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Ferrari 599 Hybrid Concept from imaginelifestyles.com)

[Source: Quattroruote]

Video of the Day: Lewis Christmas Car(ol)

Fiat's New 0.9L Engine

Fiat is offereing a new smaller engine for its Fiat 500. Currently the 500 is powered by a 1.2L SOHC gasoline engine that produces between 68 to 74 horsepower. The new unit is a o.9L engine. In its naturally aspirated form, the 0.9L pumps out 65 horsepower, though the turbocharged engine produces anywhere from 80 to 105 horsepower. The engine is lighter and has a reduction in carbon dioxide output, making it more fuel efficient.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Autoblog]

2011 5.0 Mustang

It looks like Ford couldn't keep the 2011 Mustang GT under wraps until its official release on the 28th. We have two photos, thanks to Jalopnik (via Mustangheave and Burlappcars), of the new pony. Please enjoy the Christmas eye candy.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2011 Mustang GT from Jalopnik)
[Source: Jalopnik]

2010 Ford Taurus Awarded Five-Star Crash Test

The 2010 Ford Taurus has been awarded a five-star front and side impact crash test rating from the Nation Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Though the Taurus is engineered with to handle crash impacts, the Taurus also includes various crash-avoidance technologies. It features a segment first, radar-based forward collision warning system. This helps drivers avoid accidents by warning them of impending collisions. This system is also used with Adaptive Cruise Control that detects slower traffic ahead and warns the driver. Ford currently holds the most "Top Safety Picks" and five-star crash tested rated vehicle out of any automaker.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 2010 Ford Taurus)
[Source: Left Lane News]

Video of the Day: Ferrari 458 Italia Official Commercial

Term of the Day

Tachometer - It is an instrument for measuring and indicating the speed at which the engine crankshaft is turning. It is universally calibrated in revolutions per minute.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Tachometer)

Car Fact of the Day

The Mercury Cougar was introduced in 1967. The Cougar nameplate was first used on the Mustang concepts during the early 1960's. Though the Cougar was Mercury's flagship muscle car that shared the same platform as the Ford Mustang, it was not always based off of the Mustang. It later shared a platform with the Ford Thunderbird, and even later the Ford Contour.

-Anthony Alaniz

2013 Nissan GT-R Hybrid Power Plant

Rumors are swirling again for the 2013 Nissan GT-R Hybrid. Sources that spoke with Inside Line said that the drivetrain will be a version will soon show up in the upcoming Inifiniti M35 Hybrid. There will be an increase in power output and an all-wheel-drive system. Expected output should hover around 600 horsepower, with a 440 horsepower gas engine combined with a 160 horsepower electrical power plant. Expected debut is 2012 as a 2013 model year, with a price around $100,000.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Nissan GT-R from egmCarTech)

[Source: egmCarTech)

Video of the Day: Noble M600

Ford and Geely Reach Volvo Agreement

Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited has came to agreement with Ford over the sale of Volvo. The agreement won't be final until the first quarter of 2010, with the official sale not occurring until the second quarter. This will give Ford the time to focuses on its core brands. Though Volvo will be owned by Geely, Ford will still work with Volvo as they share technologies and platforms.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Ford]

December Car Sales Improve

Though 2009 was not the greatest year for automakers, with brands disappearing and merging, December will be a high note of the year. According to J.D. Power and Associates, December will see a 15 percent increase in sales. December is expected to end with 1.03 units sold, an improvement from 895,000 one year ago. Retail sales climbed 20 percent, while fleet sales decreased 2.5 percent, averaging out to an overall 15 percent improvement for the month.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Left Lane News]

NASCAR Heading in the Right Direction

Adding a little spice to the new season, NASCAR has added two road courses for the upcoming year. The first road course race is Infenion Raceway in Sonoma, California. It is a Sprint Cup race. The second is a Nationwide Truck Series Race in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin at Road America. Be prepared to see some new strategies as NASCAR drivers learn how to handle the new courses.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: NASCAR]

Car Fact of the Day

Toyota started its heritage labeled "Toyoda" A public competition in September of 1936 for a new logo design caused the name change. Out of 27,ooo entries the winner was the three letters for "Toyoda" in a circle. Risburo Toyota, who married into the company, preferred Toyota due to its simpler visual design. Also "Toyoda" literally mean fertile rice paddies. The name change helped distance the company from associations with old-fashioned farming. In August 1937, the company was trademarked as the "Toyota Motor Company" and a new word was coined.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Toyota Office in Denmark)

GM Annoucnes new CFO

Chris Liddell will start as GM's new vice chairman and chief financial offer come January 2010. Liddell will be replacing Ray Young who will become the vice president of International Operations. Liddell is currently the CFO at Microsoft where he will be leaving on December 31, 2009, a position he started in May of 2005. Liddell has been CFO of International Paper Co. He was also CEO of Carter Holt Harvey Ltd.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: egmCarTech]

Review: 2010 Ford Fusion SE

What happens when you place a 2.5L I4 engine in a family sedan and match it up with a six-speed manual transmission all for around $22,000? Well, you get the 2010 Ford Fusion SE. Recently I had the opportunity to take one a for test drive, and to say the least, I was impressed. With the 2.5L I4 producing a smooth 175 horsepower and 172 pound feet of torque, the car accelerated quite nicely. Though the engine is only displacing 2.5L, the exhaust and engine tone were subdued but still sporty when accelerating into higher RPM. The manual transmission and clutch were very smooth and easy to operate as well. The Fusion handled well though the corners with its Independent Short-and Long-Arm (SLA) front suspension and its Independent Multi-Link Twist Blade rear suspension. With the electronic power-assisted steering some road feeling was lost when going over common road terrain. This loss of feeling gave me a disconnect between the car and I. Though the Fusion Sport model still has a hydraulic power-assisted steering system. The interior is classy, though still functional. The cloth seats were comfortable and good quality materials were used throughout the interior. Standard is a dual chrome-tipped exhaust system, and Microsoft's Sync system. Price as tested: $22, 378.00. Fun to Drive Factor: 6.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Ford Fusion SE from Car and Driver)

Term of the Day

Exhaust Manifold - A cast iron assembly of tubes that attach to an engine's cylinder head that provides a path through which burned gasses from the cylinders can flow to the exhaust system.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Exhaust Manifold)

Last Chevy Big Block Engine Produced

The final L18 big block engine was produced at General Motor's Tonawanda plant in New York on December 19. The Chevy Big Block engine production dates back to 1958. The engine was very adaptable, besides coming in multiple displacements, 396, 409, 427, 454, and 496, it was used in generators, power boats, and other applications as well. The engine was seen in such cars as the Chevrolet Camaro, Corvette, Impala, and Chevelle. The last engine was singed by all the employs as this engine will head to the GM Heritage Center in Sterling Heights, Mi. 15o workers are now laid off.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 1967 Chevrolet Corvette 427 L89)

[Source: The Buffalo News]

Video of the Day: Lincoln MKS

Car Fact of the Day

Mercury, a part of the Ford Motor Company, was created from scratch. It was then combined with Lincoln in 1945 to create the Lincoln-Mercury Division. The idea was to have Mercury as a junior company to Lincoln instead of being a higher end Ford product. Mercury mimicked some Ford products, though had a few unique designs like the Mercury Cougar amongst others.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 1969 Mercury Cougar)

Term of the Day

Aquaplaning (Hydroplaning) - This is where a tire's tendency to ride on a layer of water instead of maintaining direct contact with the road surface occurs. This sometimes causes a loss of control of the car.

-Anthony Alaniz

Camaro Convertble to Show at 2010 NAIAS

GM is introducing the 2012 Chevy Camaro Convertible at the 2010 North American International Auto Show this January. The production date has been pushed back after product delays and financial issues. Expect the Camaro Convertible to show up on dealer lots in spring of 2011.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 2010 Chevy Camaro SS from the-grayline.com)

Saab To Stop Production

The recent negations between Spyker and GM over Saab have failed. Saab will now begin to end production. Saab will still honor warranties and provide parts. Saab will also pay its suppliers as it winds down production. With sales down 61 percent from last year, and only selling 7,000 cars, Saab's future looked dismal already. There has been no official end date for Saab set yet.

-Anthony Alaniz

Video of the Day: Honda Commercial

2011 Mustang GT Specs Leaked

Sources reveled today that the 2011 Mustang GT will house a 5.0L V8 engine that produces 412 horsepower and 390 pound feet of torque. The new GT will get special "5.0" badges and still return an estimated 25 miles per gallon. Then engine features four valves per cylinder and twin independent variable valve timing. Expect more information when Ford officially introduces the 2011 Mustang GT on December 28.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 2010 Mustang)

Video of the Day: Nothin' Screams Like a Supercharger

Car Fact of the Day

Lincoln was founded in 1917 by Henry M. Leland. Leland was one of the founders of Cadillac, originally Henry Ford Company. Leland left General Motors to form the Lincoln Motor Company to build Liberty aircraft engines. After World War I the company was retooled to produce luxury automobiles. Quickly the company fell into financial trouble and was quickly purchased by Henry Ford, and the Ford Motor Company, on February 4, 1922.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 1978 Lincoln Town Car)

Mercedes-Benz Downsize Engines and Add Turbos

It appears that Mercedes-Benz is downsizing all V8 engines in its lineup for the 2011 model year. Mercedes is following BMW by moving towards smaller turbocharged V8 engines to increase fuel efficiency. In its AMG division, Mercedes is replacing the 6.2L v8 with a 5.5L turbocharged V8. Though Mercedes has yet to reveal the exact sizes of the new engines, expect displacement to run between 4.5L and 5.0L for its passenger cars.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG from drivebullitin.com)

2010 NAIAS Car and Truck of the Year Nominees

Forty-nine veteran automotive journalists have released their candidates for the 2010 North American Car and Truck of the Year.

2010 North American Car of the Year Nominees
BMW 335d
Buick LaCrosse
Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon
Chevrolet Camaro
Ford Fusion
Ford Fusion Hybrid
Ford Taurus/Taurus SHO
Honda Insight
Kia Soul
Mazda3/MazdaSpeed3
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Porsche Panamera
Subaru Legacy
Suzuki Kizashi
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Golf/GTI/TDI

2010 North American Truck of the Year
Acura ZDX
Audi Q5
Cadillac SRX
Chevrolet Equinox
Ford Transit Connect
Honda Accord Crosstour
Land Rover LR4
Lincoln MKT
Subaru Outback
Volvo XC60

The winners will be announced at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in January.

-Anthony Alaniz

Term of the Day

Catalytic Converter - An emission control device that is part of the exhaust system. It contains platinum and palladium as a catalyst for chemical reactions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. The converter turns vapours into water, carbon dioxide, and other less dangerous toxins.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Catalytic Converter from aaicar.com)

Geely Expected to Aquire Volvo in Early 2010

Sources are saying that theZhejianj Geely Holding Group has set a goal of purchasing Volvo by February 14th, 2010, the Chinesse New Year. The deal currently between Ford and Geely would be worth an estimated $1.8 billion. Geely would have full control over Volvo's technologies. Though Volvo would continue to have access to Ford technologies that are needed for Volvo's future development.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Geely and Volvo logo)

Justin Timberlake and Audi

Justin Timberlake was announced as the new spokesperson for Audi's new Internet campaign. Timberlake will be promoting the new Audi A1, Audi's small car concept and production vehicle. Expect the campaign to be launched in the spring of 2010.

-Anthony Alaniz

Ford's European Sale Highest Since 1999

Ford reported a 19.8 percent increase last month in its European market share compared to the same time last year. Ford sold 63 percent of its cars to retail customers including the Fiesta, Kuga, Ka, and the midsized sedan, the Fusion. Ford's increase in sales was in part due to a similar "cash for clunkers" program in Germany, France and England. Last month Ford was the top selling automaker in England and Ireland, and the top imported brand in France and Italy.

-Anthony Alaniz

Video of the Day: Supercuda vs. Enzo

Contact Us

First, I would like to thank you for stopping by and catching up on all the latest automotive news.

Second, you can now follows us on Myspace at myspace.com/autowatch411. We also have a Facebook fan page, all you have to do is search for Auto Watch 411 to follow us. You can of course contact us at autowatch411@gmail.com. Please feel free to comment, critique, and question. We appreciate, and value, your opinion.

Thank you,
Anthony Alaniz
Executive Editor

Term of the Day

Drafting - A racing technique where one car follows closely behind another, allowing both cars to gain straightaway speed. Their combined aerodynamic drag is actually less then their combined drag when separated by several car lengths. The lead car cuts through the air like a wind breaker for the following car. The following car reduces the turbulent flow that is normally created at the rear of the first car.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: Drafting in NASCAR from onebadwheel.com)

Car Fact of the Day

BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, or in English, Bavarian Motor Works. BMW is a German automobile, motorcycle, and engine company that was founded in 1916. BMW produced aircraft engines up until the end of World War I, when the Versailles Armistice Treaty forced the company to cease production. Consequently BWM moved to producing motorcycles in 1923 and then began automobile production in 1929.

-Anthony Alaniz

Video of the Day: Spyker C8 Aileron

Ferrari Designer new Director of Design at Lotus

Former Ferrari designer, Donato Coco, was hired by Lotus as its new Director of Design. Coco was a key player in the designs of the Ferrari F430 Scuderia and the new Ferrari 458 Italia. Coco will be working at Lotus' headquarters in Hethel, England come January 4th. Lotus is known for hiring other ex-Ferrari personal. Lotus CEO Dany Bahar also worked for Ferrari.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Ferrari F430 Scuderia from personal archive)

Shelby Automobiles to Change Name

Shelby Autos is reverting back to its roots by changing its name back to Shelby America. It is the same name that Carroll Shelby founded the company under in 1962. The name change came from enthusiasts wanting the company to remember its heritage "of building great cars like the G.T.350 and Cobra," said Shelby. Don't expect a change in business operations as everything is running normally during the name change.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Shelby Logo from mustang.com)

Ford and Mazda to Continue Partnership

Ford recently sold its controlling share in Mazda, and ended the two companies long standing habit of sharing platforms. Executives from both companies recently stated that they will, however, continue to work together on creating advanced technologies. Mazda's smaller company size lacks the competition it needs to survive on the mass market against larger companies like Ford and Toyota. Mazda board member, Masaharu Yamaki, said that, "Ford will remain an important partner for Mazda."

-Anthony Alaniz

Chrysler to Announce More Investments

Chrysler is set to announce that it is investing even more into Michigan. Governor Jennifer Granholm and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne will announce the new investment and its impact on jobs and the economy in Michigan. The announcement is set for Thursday at Chrysler's corporate headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

-Anthony Alaniz

Porche's 9ff GT9 254 mph Not Fast Enough

Porsche's 9ff GT9 seemed like an ideal supercar. The GT9 can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, and has a top speed of 254 mph, exceeding the Bugatti Veyron's 248 mph. 9ff, a German tuning company, was not satisfied. Now comes the GT9-R, the "R" added to annotate ridiculous. The 9ff GT9-R is offered in three stages so the consumer can learn how to handle the car in steps with a lessened risk. The high note of the 9ff GT9-R is its third stage. A 6 cylinder 4.0L turbocharged boxer engine is used to produce a remarkable 1,120 horsepower and 774.4 pounds of twist. This allows the GT9-R to achieve a 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds, and a 0 to 186 mph in just 15.8 seconds. The GT9-r can reach a top speed of 257 mph.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2011 Porsche 9ff GT9-R from egmCarTech)

Car Fact of the Day

The 2009 Corvette Supercar, the ZR1, is not the first Corvette to receive that nameplate. The C3 Corvette, from 1969 to 1971, and C4 Corvette, from 1990 to 1995, all had ZR-1 models, though the difference is that the previous versions had a dash in the nameplate.


-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 2009 Corvette ZR1)

Term of the Day

Connecting Rod - This is the link between the piston and the crankshaft. This turns the piston's reciprocal motion into rotary motion.


-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: Connecting Rod from garagelibrary.com)

New Honda Element Coming Despite Slow Sales

Honda is designing the next generation Element. Honda is using the underpinnings of its Honda CR-V to be the base of the next-gen Element. Honda does not appear to be diminishing the cross-over, despite dismal sales, saying that the Element hits a key segment where their CR-V does not.

-Anthony Alaniz

Ford EcoBoost to Power 800hp Kepler Motors MOTION

World Speed Record Holder, Russ Wicks, founder of Kepler Motors, is unveiling his new supercar at the 10th annual Dubai International Motor Show this month. The Kepler Motors MOTION is an all wheel drive Dual Powertrain Technology (DPT) vehicle, producing a combined 800 horsepower. The power comes from a modified Ford 3.6L V6 EcoBoost twin-turbocharged engine producing 550 horsepower, that powers the rear wheels, while a 250 horsepower electric motor powers the front wheels. This all wheel drive system launches the MOTION from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds with a top speed of over 200 mph. The car remains light with the use of a carbon fiber body. Only 50 will be produced, with each being hand built. Deliveries are expected to start in 2011.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Kepler Motors MOTION from emgCarTech)

Video of the Day: 2011 Lexus LFA Engine Soundtrack (Turn up your speakers for optimal enjoyment)

Car Fact of the Day

Honda Motor Company is more than just automobiles. Honda also manufactures garden equipment, marine engines, personal watercraft and power generators. Since 1986 Honda has been involved with artificial intelligence and robotics research. Honda has also venture into aerospace when it established GE Honda Aero Engines in 2004. The Honda HA-420 HondaJet is schedule for release in 2011.



-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: Honda HA-420 HondaJet)

Production Acura NSX to become GT racecar

Honda Motor Corp. cancelled the production of the new Acura NSX, though is entering it in next years Super GT series, Japans most popular racing series. Honda sidestepped the Super GT rules that require only production cars can race by showing concept designs to JAF (Japan Automobile Federation). As long as the car is production ready it does not need to be produced in order to race.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2011 Acura NSX Spy Photo)

Ed Whitace Serves Interim GM CEO Position

On December 1st, Fritz Henderson resigned as CEO of GM. Ed Whitacre, former CEO of AT&T and chairman of GM, will take an interim position as CEO until a replacement is found. Whitacre said that a new, permanent, CEO is actively been sought out. Henderson's resignation did not come as a surprise as Henderson and the board of directors did not agree on certain key issues. Also the government's Automotive Task Force was not fond of Henderson as well, with Henderson being a career GM employee.

-Anthony Alaniz

Video of the Day: ZR1 vs. GT-R vs. 599 vs. GT2

Term of the Day

Gasoline Direct Fuel Injection - Is a variant of fuel injection where highly pressurized gasoline is injected via a common fuel rail directly into the combustion chamber of each cylinder. This is opposed to multi-point fuel injection that occurs at the intake tract or cylinder port. This type of fuel injection increases power and fuel economy.

-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: Direct Fuel Injection Cylinder Chamber)

NAIAS 2010 Preview: 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is

Appearing at the 2010 North American International Auto Show is the new 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is. It comes with a maximum output of 355 horsepower that is delivered at 5,900 RPM, and a torque output of 369 pound-feet. BMW claims a 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. The staple of the coupe's performance stems from a twin turbocharged engine, direct fuel injection, and an increased air intake flow. Fuel economy does not suffer from the increased power, almost matching that of the BMW sDrive35i. The 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is goes on sale in the spring of 2010.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2011 BMW z4 sDrive35is)

Retiring Saturn General Manager to head Smart USA

The retiring general manager of Saturn, Jill Lajdziak, will soon head Smart USA sales and marketing. Lajdziak spent time this summer with Penske dealing with the possible purchase of Saturn. The plan fell through when Renault vetoed a deal that would supply cars to a Penske-owned Saturn. Roger Penske was so impressed with Lajdziak that he hired her to become the VP of Smart USA. Though Lajdziak has a long road a head of her as Smart sales are currently plummeting.

-Anthony Alaniz

Car Fact of the Day

Enzo Ferrari never intended to sell road cars when he formed Scuderia Ferrari in 1929. Instead it prepared drivers to race Alfa Ramero cars up until 1938 when Ferrari was asked to head Alfa Romero's race department. The first Ferrari was built in 1947, called the 125 S, to help fund Scuderia Ferrari, Ferrari's race team. Ferrari carried a strong distaste for his customers up until his death in 1988, his true passion being that of racing.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 1947 Ferrari 125 S)

Term of the Day

Detonation - Excessively rapid burning of the compressed air-fuel mixture in an engine, often resulting in a noise called a pink or knock. The pinging or knocking noise is the cause of intense pressure waves that cause the cylinder walls to vibrate.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Engine Combustion)

Nissan Working on New 240SX

Nissan is thinking of resurrecting the 240SX nameplate for a new model in the coming years. Sources say that the new model's design could come from the Foria concept that was displayed at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. It would be powered by a 1.8L turbocharged I4 that would make around 200 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph in six to seven seconds. The model is expected to debut in 2o11 or 2012.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2005 Nissan Foria Concept)

Video of the Day: Christmas Campaign

NHAC Names 2009 Ford Flex Collectable Car of the Future

Friends of the National Automotive History Collection (NAHC) announced that the 2009 Ford Flex will become the most desired car for collectors. The Flex was selected against eight other contenders that were launched in 2009. Charles K. Hyde, chairman of the NAHC Board of Trustees, said, "We asked our members to predict which of this year's new vehicles will turn heads in the Woodward Cruise of 2034. The NAHC is the world's largest public automobile archive located at the Skillman Branch Library in Detroit, Michigan.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2009 Ford Flex)

Contact Us

You can now contact us at autowatch411@gmail.com. Please feel free to comment, critique, and question. We appreciate, and value, your opinion.

Thank you,

Anthony Alaniz

Executive Editor

Car Fact of the Day

Pierre Veyron was a Grand Prix motor racing driver from 1933 to 1953. He was most famous for his 1939 win at the 24 hours of Le Mans, driving a Bugatti Type 57. Bugatti Automobiles revived the name for the new Bugatti Veyron super car.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2004 Bugatti Veyron Concept)

Video of the Day: Bugatti Veyron vs. McLaren F1 (Top Gear)

2011 Nissan GT-R Hybrid

Rumors from the Japanese automaker Nissan are saying that the 2011 Nissan GT-R will have a hybrid component added. The electric-motor should be capable of producing 160 horsepower to give the GT-R an overall output of 600 horsepower.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2011 Nissan GT-R)

Term of the Day

Rotary Engine - This is an engine where the air-fuel mixture is used to spin a rotor or wheel, producing a rotary motion instead of the reciprocating motion seen in piston engines. Rotary engines are more balanced than conventional piston engines.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Internal View of a Rotary Engine)

2011 Mazda Miata: Same Power and 70 MPG

Reports are surfacing that the 2011 Mazda Miata will have Mazda's new "Sky-G" engine. It is rumored to be a 1.4L I-4 high tech engine that was used in the Mazda Kiyora concept at the Paris Auto Show in 2008. The high mileage claims come from a source from that spoke to InsideLine, rumoring anywhere between 50 and 70 miles to the gallon. Also Toyota has approached Mazda about its new engine technology.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Mazda Miata)

Japanese Cash for Clunkers Draws

Japan is starting its own cash for clunkers program, which offers tax incentives for purchases on new vehicles, so long as they are not imported. GM, Chrysler, and Ford urged the U.S. Trade Representative to look at Japan's discrimination to imported vehicles. During the U.S. cash for clunkers program, Japanese cars accounted for nearly half of the sales from the program.

-Anthony Alaniz

Toyota to Add Workers at Woodstock Plant

Toyota is adding an additional 800 workers, and is also running overtime in all North American plants to meet demand. The Woodstock plant in Ontario is hiring 800 second shift workers to help meed the increased demand for the production of the Toyota RAV4.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Toyota RAV4)

Motor Trend Truck of the Year

Motor Trend magazines Truck of the Year is the 2010 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty. The other contestants were the 2010 Ford Transit, the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, and the 2010 Toyota Tundra. The trucks were weighed against six criteria; design advancement, engineering excellence, intended function, efficiency, safety, and value. The Dodge Ram Heavy Duty offers five trim levels, each with their own options.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty)

Video of the Day: 2010 Porshce Panamera Commerical

Term of The Day

Speed Shift - A drag racing technique where the driver keeps the accelerator to the floor while upshifting a manual transmission. When done correctly, the technique reduced the time needed for upshifts and can result in a quicker elapsed time. Though this is extremely abusive to the entire drivetrain of the car.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Drivetrain)

Car Fact of The Day

In 1963 Chrysler produced its fourth generation gas turbine engine. The engine ran up to 60,000 rpm. The turbine engine could use diesel, unleaded gasoline, kerosene, JP-4 jet fuel, and vegetable oil. One of the first cars was ran on tequila, as proved by Mexico's president, the car could be ran on virtually anything. It contained a fifth of the moving parts of a piston engine, and seen as how there was no combustion, oil changes were considered not necessary. Though the engine did not produce carbon monoxide, it did produce nitrous oxide which ultimately led to the downfall of the program.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 1963 Chrysler Turbine)