Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 rally cars provide perfect Friday soundtrack]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-porsche-911-gt3-rally-cars-provide-perfect-friday-soundtr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-porsche-911-gt3-rally-cars-provide-perfect-friday-soundtr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-porsche-911-gt3-rally-cars-provide-perfect-friday-soundtr/#comments Filed under: , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

Rally fans often stand at a corner or in the middle of a straight away, sometimes for hours, just to get a glimpse of their favorite car. If you're lucky, you get a prime spot at a sharp turn or abrupt elevation that leads to airborne cars. Lucky for us, the Internets exist so that the best moments of these races are captured for our enjoyment.

Over eight minutes of high-revving Porsche GT3 rally cars await you after the jump. Just about every shot is a keeper and the intense (and vivid) screams of the hopped up boxer engines is more than enough reason to spend a few minutes of your time watching the footage after the jump. Besides, you'll want to remember what it is to actually drive a car before heading out of the office and into rush-hour gridlock, right?

[Source: YouTube via 0-60]

Continue reading VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 rally cars provide perfect Friday soundtrack

VIDEO: Porsche 911 GT3 rally cars provide perfect Friday soundtrack originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 Porsche 9112009Porsche911911carreraGT3porschePorsche 911Porsche 933 GT3porsche 996porsche 998Porsche rallyporsche rally racerPorsche911Porsche933Gt3Porsche996Porsche998PorscheRallyPorscheRallyRacerrallyrally racingrallyingRallyRacingyoutube Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST <![CDATA[2010 Camaro SS Pace Car ready for Indy 500]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/2010-camaro-ss-pace-car-ready-for-indy-500/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/2010-camaro-ss-pace-car-ready-for-indy-500/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/2010-camaro-ss-pace-car-ready-for-indy-500/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indianapolis 500 Pace Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Indianapolis 500 is still more than five months away, but General Motors is getting a jump on the 2010 season with the unveiling of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Pace Car.

Shown today at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the tangerine Camaro is a rolling homage to the original pony pace car that rolled onto the track in 1967, complete with Inferno Orange Metallic paint, White Diamond rally stripes and a color-matched instrument panel. While the auto-box equipped, 400-hp 6.2-liter V8 apparently remains unchanged, the rest of the modifications are primarily cosmetic, including the Indy 500 logos adorning the doors, front fenders and seat headrests, along with an all-new front grille that's slated to be available as a Camaro accessory in the future. The only safety equipment is the strobe light system mounted inside the rear window, negating the need for a traditional roof-top light bar.

The 2010 Indy 500 Camaro will be on display at the Indianapolis Auto Show starting on December 26, but you can get all the details by checking out the gallery below and the press release below the fold.


Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

Continue reading 2010 Camaro SS Pace Car ready for Indy 500

2010 Camaro SS Pace Car ready for Indy 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20102010 chevrolet camaro indianapolis 500 pace car2010 chevy camaro indianapolis 500 pace car2010ChevroletCamaroIndianapolis500PaceCar2010ChevyCamaroIndianapolis500PaceCar500500 days of summer500DaysOfSummercamarocanadachevroletIndianapolis 500Indianapolis500indypace carPaceCar Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST <![CDATA[Renault stays in Formula One after selling stake in team]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/renault-stays-in-formula-one-after-selling-stake-in-team/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/renault-stays-in-formula-one-after-selling-stake-in-team/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/renault-stays-in-formula-one-after-selling-stake-in-team/#comments Filed under: ,



The Renault name will remain on the Formula One grid when the series resumes in 2010 thanks to a deal announced on Wednesday. There had been considerable speculation in recent months that Renault would shut down its F1 effort and follow Honda, BMW and Toyota out the door. These rumors hit a fever pitch after the "Crash-Gate" controversy and the sudden departure of primary sponsor ING.

However, in the past couple of weeks it became plausible that Renault could stay in the sport although in a scaled down fashion. Luxemborg based Genii Capital will buy a majority stake in the team which will retain the automaker's name. The exact percentage hasn't been disclosed although the earlier speculation had Renault retaining only 25 percent of the team.

Renault will retain the engine building operation and continue to supply the Red Bull Racing team in 2010. The press release is after the jump.

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault stays in Formula One after selling stake in team

Renault stays in Formula One after selling stake in team originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> F1FIAformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnegenii capitalGeniiCapitalrenaultRenault F1renault formula 1renault formula oneRenaultF1RenaultFormula1RenaultFormulaOne Thu, 17 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST <![CDATA[MotoGP to return to 1000cc format, MotoCzysz back in the mix?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/motogp-to-return-to-1000cc-format-motoczysz-back-in-the-mix/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/motogp-to-return-to-1000cc-format-motoczysz-back-in-the-mix/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/motogp-to-return-to-1000cc-format-motoczysz-back-in-the-mix/#comments Filed under: ,



After a few years experimenting with 800cc engines in MotoGP, the Grand Prix Commission has just announced a switch back to 1000cc powerplants with the added caveat that they must have bore centers of 81 millimeters. These new regulations are set to go into effect for the 2012 racing season, and at least one small player is happy about the change. On the official MotoCzyst blog, Michael Czysz wrote:
The 2012 season is a great opportunity! MotoCzysz now has the base motorcycle, enough time and rules actually leaning a little in our favor - we could not ask for a better opportunity. Let's hope others feel the way I do. There is heavy lifting to be done but great things can be accomplished with many hands and the assistance of a few true believers.
It would seem that Czysz would have a leg up on the competition in getting a MotoGP platform ready for 2012 since the company's four-cylinder C1 was initially designed to compete in the 1000cc class. It's unclear at this point if MotoCzysz will continue developing its electric E1 platform or if it will focus all of its efforts on getting a bike on the MotoGP grid for 2012. Or, ya know, neither of the above.

[Source: MotoCzysz via Asphalt and Rubber]

MotoGP to return to 1000cc format, MotoCzysz back in the mix? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 motogp2012Motogpmotoczyszmotoczysz c1motoczysz e1motoczysz e1pcmotoczysz electric motorcyclemotoczysz motogpMotoczyszC1MotoczyszE1MotoczyszE1pcMotoczyszElectricMotorcycleMotoczyszMotogpMotogp Thu, 17 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Photographer snaps drag car crash with nerves of steel]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-photographer-snaps-drag-car-crash-with-nerves-of-steel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-photographer-snaps-drag-car-crash-with-nerves-of-steel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-photographer-snaps-drag-car-crash-with-nerves-of-steel/#comments Filed under: ,


Click above to watch video of the crash after the jump

When a 250-mph funny car suddenly loses control and launches like a missile in your direction, common sense dictates that the best thing to do is run away. As fast as possible. While the instincts of the shutter bugs at Pomona Raceway in California told most to run for cover, Andy Willsheer just kept on shooting. And when Steve Gasparrelli's Ford Mustang funny car came screaming at him full tilt and completely out of control, Willsheer snapped off several of the most up close and personal shots you'll ever see.

Gasparrelli's Mustang funny car slipped on some oil right out of the gate and made an immediate 90-degree right turn right for the concrete barrier. The drag car was immediately upended by the barrier just three feet from where Willsheer was shooting. Neither Willsheer or Gasparrelli were seriously hurt in the incident. We're not sure if Willsheer was brave or stupid for not moving, but we sure do like the pics. Be sure to head over to the Daily Mail to check out Willsheer's amazing photos and hit the jump to watch video of the accident. Pretty amazing stuff.

[Source: Daily Mail]

Continue reading VIDEO: Photographer snaps drag car crash with nerves of steel

VIDEO: Photographer snaps drag car crash with nerves of steel originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Andy WillsheerAndyWillsheerdrag racingDragRacingfunny carfunny car accidentFunnyCarFunnyCarAccident Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:31:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Pastrana practice for record New Year's Eve jump goes awry]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-pastrana-practice-for-record-new-years-eve-jump-goes-awr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-pastrana-practice-for-record-new-years-eve-jump-goes-awr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-pastrana-practice-for-record-new-years-eve-jump-goes-awr/#comments Filed under: ,

Travis Pastrana's practice jump - Click above to watch the video after the break

This is what we mean when we say Travis Pastrana is insane. Generally, whenever the world sees a ridiculous freestyle dirtbike or automobile trick, it goes off without a hitch. It almost seems like a foregone conclusion that the rider is going to execute a perfect jump or flip, wave to the cameras and hug his significant others. There's a reason for that...

That reason? In a word: Practice. Yes, just like your first grade teacher drilled into you decades ago, practice makes perfect. Usually. As you'll see in the video after the break, practice sessions are just as dangerous and death-defying as the actual stunts themselves. In fact, sometimes even more so.

For this particular feat of craziness, Pastrana is actually planning to jump off a ramp at the end of a pier over 250 feet of water to a waiting barge as part of a New Year's celebration. Assuming practice sessions indicate that it's possible... which, well, just hit the jump to watch the video.

[Source: YouTube via Auto-Focus.us]

Continue reading VIDEO: Pastrana practice for record New Year's Eve jump goes awry

VIDEO: Pastrana practice for record New Year's Eve jump goes awry originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> New Yearnew years eveNewYearNewYearsEveRally Carrally car jumpRallyCarRallyCarJumpred bullRed Bull New Year No Limitsred bull racingRedBullRedBullNewYearNoLimitsRedBullRacingtravis pastranaTravisPastranaworld record jumpWorldRecordJump Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:58:00 EST <![CDATA[IRL unifies feeder series under "Road to Indy" banner]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/irl-unifies-feeder-series-under-road-to-indy-banner/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/irl-unifies-feeder-series-under-road-to-indy-banner/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/irl-unifies-feeder-series-under-road-to-indy-banner/#comments Filed under:



Open-wheel racing in America has been in shambles for far too long. But now that CART and the IndyCar Series are back together, with the joint Indy Racing League taking steps to unify the feeder series below them.

Grouped under the "Road to Indy" initiative, the coordination brings the US Formula 2000, Star Mazda and Indy Lights championships under one umbrella, giving aspiring drivers a clear ladder up which they can ascend with the aim of breaking into the top-tier IndyCar Series.

Although the Star Mazda and USF2000 series will continue with their own schedules while the Indy Lights series continues to support IndyCar racers, all four will come together during the month-long Indy 500 extravaganza at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as well as the events in St Petersburg and Iowa.

[Source: IRL]

IRL unifies feeder series under "Road to Indy" banner originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> feeder seriesFeederSeriesindianapolis 500Indianapolis500indy 500indy car seriesindy lightsindy racing leagueIndy500IndyCarSeriesIndyLightsIndyRacingLeagueroad to indyRoadToIndystar mazdaStarMazdausf2000 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST <![CDATA[McLaren's Whitmarsh reportedly elected to replace Montezemolo as FOTA chairman]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/#comments Filed under: ,



There's only so many chairs one man can sit in at once. But Luca di Montezemolo has made an art out of pushing the limits. In addition to serving as chairman of both Ferrari and the Fiat group, the hereditary nobleman was, until recently at least, also chairing the Italian Confindustria employers' federation and the FIEG editorial organization. But something's got to give, and at the end of this year he's stepping down from his role as the founding chairman of the Formula One Teams Association.

In his place, according to the latest reports, will serve one Martin Whitmarsh, recently promoted to team principal of the McLaren team after Ron Dennis went off to concentrate on the emerging road car division. Meanwhile, Red Bull chief Christian Horner was reportedly elected to chair the Sporting Working Group while Ross Brawn stays on as head of the Technical Working Group within FOTA. The meeting of the team principals took place in Monaco on the heels of the F1 Business Forum and the Formula 1 Commission meeting.

[Source: Autosport | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

McLaren's Whitmarsh reportedly elected to replace Montezemolo as FOTA chairman originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> christian hornerChristianHornerf1formula 1formula oneformula one teams associationFormula1FormulaOneFormulaOneTeamsAssociationfotamartin whitmarshMartinWhitmarshmclarenross brawnRossBrawnwhitmarsh Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST <![CDATA[2010 F1 grid comes into focus as Lotus signs Trulli and Kovalainen]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-f1-grid-comes-into-focus-as-lotus-signs-trulli-and-kovalain/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-f1-grid-comes-into-focus-as-lotus-signs-trulli-and-kovalain/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-f1-grid-comes-into-focus-as-lotus-signs-trulli-and-kovalain/#comments Filed under: , ,

The pieces to the puzzle that is the upcoming Formula One season are coming together bit by bit. In the latest development, the upstart Lotus F1 Racing team has announced the signing of two veteran drivers: Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalainen.

A former Monaco Grand Prix race winner, Trulli has driven for five different teams over the course of the past twelve years on the grid. Speculation was that he could switch to NASCAR following a recent test with Michael Waltrip Racing, particularly as the Toyota team for which he'd been driving for the past six years announced its withdrawal from the series. Finnish driver Kovalainen, meanwhile, is also a former race winner, left without a ride when McLaren replaced him with reigning world champion Jenson Button. Local aspirant Fairuz Fauzy, formerly of Malaysia's A1GP team, will serve as reserve/test driver.

The announcement was made by Malaysia's prime minister, whose government is backing the team. Although the outfit has no direct ties with the automaker of the same name - save for mutual patronage by Malaysia's state-run Proton - the British sportscar-maker and engineering firm could buy into the team at some point in the future as part of its comprehensive racing plan, giving Lotus the kind of operation Ferrari has run for decades.

With the Lotus drivers in place and Force India having recently confirmed the retention of Adrian Sutil and Tonio Liuzzi, the 2010 grid is rapidly taking form. The only remaining seats are with Mercedes/Brawn GP (which has yet to announce Nico Rosberg's team-mate as speculation intensifies over Michael Schumacher's return), Renault (which has yet to announce a wingman for Robert Kubica as the team's future remains in question), Sauber (which was only recently approved for next season), Toro Rosso, Campos Meta (which has announced only Bruno Senna), Virgin/Manor (which has confirmed only Timo Glock so far) and USF1.

Follow the jump for the full press release from Lotus.

[Source: Lotus F1 Team | Image: Bongarts/Getty]

Continue reading 2010 F1 grid comes into focus as Lotus signs Trulli and Kovalainen

2010 F1 grid comes into focus as Lotus signs Trulli and Kovalainen originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1 malaysia1Malaysiaf1fairuz fauzyFairuzFauzyfauzyformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneheikki kovalainenHeikkiKovalainenjarno trulliJarnoTrullikovalainenlotuslotus f1lotus f1 racingLotusF1LotusF1Racingmalaysiatrulli Mon, 14 Dec 2009 18:27:00 EST <![CDATA[Race-spec Jaguar XF touring car debuts at Kyalami Superstars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/race-spec-jaguar-xf-touring-car-debuts-at-kyalami-superstars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/race-spec-jaguar-xf-touring-car-debuts-at-kyalami-superstars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/race-spec-jaguar-xf-touring-car-debuts-at-kyalami-superstars/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Ferlito Motors Jaguar XF Superstars touring car - Click above for image gallery

We can thank the Italians for some of the most enticing race machinery ever to grace tarmac. But in this case, the Italians have taken a British saloon and transformed it for track duty.

This racing version of the Jaguar XF made its debut this past weekend at South Africa's Kyalami circuit, where the Superstars Series held its season finale. The Italian touring car series pits all manner of specially-prepared machinery - ranging from Chevrolet Luminas and Chrysler 300s to Audi RS4s and the Maserati Quattroporte we reported on earlier - against each other at circuits around Italy, with one round this season held abroad. While you may not recognize any names from the current roster of drivers, the handicapped former CART Champion and F1 driver Alex Zanardi is set to race for BMW in the Italian series.

Few details are available on the new Jag touring car's specifications, but it was prepared by Italian racing garage Ferlito Motors to replace an aging machine based on the old S-Type. For its race debut, the new XF racer finished 12th - dead last of the cars that finished the race, but at least it finished. Follow the jump for the press release and check out the (unfortunately low-res) images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Ferlito Motors Jaguar XF Superstars touring car


[Source: Superstars Series]

Continue reading Race-spec Jaguar XF touring car debuts at Kyalami Superstars

Race-spec Jaguar XF touring car debuts at Kyalami Superstars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ferlitoferlito jaguar xf superstars touring carferlito motorsFerlitoJaguarXfSuperstarsTouringCarFerlitoMotorsitalyjaguarjaguar xfjaguar xf touring carJaguarXfJaguarXfTouringCarkyalamisuperstarssuperstars seriesSuperstarsSeriestouringtouring cartouring carsTouringCarTouringCarsxf Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:31:00 EST <![CDATA[<i>Autosport</i>: Drivers vote Senna as greatest of all time]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/autosport-drivers-vote-senna-as-greatest-of-all-time/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/autosport-drivers-vote-senna-as-greatest-of-all-time/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/autosport-drivers-vote-senna-as-greatest-of-all-time/#comments Filed under:

SennaAutosport recently held one of those this-has-to-be-about-creating-controversy polls to find the greatest F1 driver of all time. But this was more like the Screen Actors Guild Awards than the Oscars, in that it was 217 Formula 1 drivers -- going all the way back to 98-year-old Paul Pietsch, who raced in the 1930s -- doing the voting. From among all their peers, the group chose Brazilian driver Ayrton Senna as the number one F1 stunner.

Still, there are plenty of "What?!" moments. Ayrton we're solid on, and only three drivers from the past two decades made the top ten, one of them being Fernando Alonso at the number nine spot. But seriously -- Lewis Hamilton at number 17 ahead of Jack Brabham, Graham Hill, and Kimi Raikkonen? Jensen Button at number 30 ahead of Alan Jones, Guiseppe Farina, and Phil Hill? We say, "Hmmm..." Have a look at the list yourselves, where you can vote for whether a driver should be ranked higher or lower. Hat tip to Marien.

[Source: Autosport | Image:AFP/Getty]

Autosport: Drivers vote Senna as greatest of all time originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ayrton sennaAyrtonSennaf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOne Sun, 13 Dec 2009 09:14:00 EST <![CDATA[Volkswagen iPhone app lets you follow Dakar progress]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/volkswagen-iphone-app-lets-you-follow-dakar-progress/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/volkswagen-iphone-app-lets-you-follow-dakar-progress/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/volkswagen-iphone-app-lets-you-follow-dakar-progress/#comments Filed under: , ,

Dakar Touareg

There are thousands of iPhone apps for all "that" and too much more, but few that we think have the potential to be this cool. VW will contest the Dakar Rally from January 2-17 -- Race Touareg 2 drivers Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz Mark Miller finished 1-2 last year -- and you can follow the VW team with its Rally Mobile app.

The information will start flowing before the race and continue throughout and afterward. Look for daily reports and video recaps, photographs, background information on the the Race Touareg 2, and detailed stage information. Also, It's free, which is always cool. All the pertinent info and the download link are in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen iPhone app lets you follow Dakar progress

Volkswagen iPhone app lets you follow Dakar progress originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dakardakar 2010Dakar2010motorsportsrace touareg 2RaceTouareg2volkswagenVolkswagen Race Touareg 2VolkswagenRaceTouareg2vwVW Race Touareg 2VwRaceTouareg2 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 10:41:00 EST <![CDATA[Star Search: Fresh talent descends on Jerez for F1 mega test]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/star-search-fresh-talent-descends-on-jerez-for-f1-mega-test/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/star-search-fresh-talent-descends-on-jerez-for-f1-mega-test/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/star-search-fresh-talent-descends-on-jerez-for-f1-mega-test/#comments Filed under: ,

Youngsters invade F1 test at Jerez
F1 Young Drivers Test at Jerez - Click above for high-res image gallery

The biggest football fans don't just watch the NFL. They're watching college football too. If not because they say it's a better spectacle, then simply to see the future pros who'll ultimately be drafted by NFL teams.

Formula racing works the same way. (Well, sorta.) There are countless feeder series staged every year around the world, and most of the drivers in them are hoping for their shot at the big leagues. But with championships split between so many series - from Formula Renault to GP2 and from Indy Lights to Formula 2 - it can be a bit much to follow.

Fortunately this year in the off-season, all the returning F1 teams came together for one massive test at the Jerez track in Spain. There they put the latest crop of up-and-coming talent to the test. Follow the jump to read how it unfolded.


Gallery: F1 Young Driver Test, Jerez, December 2009

Continue reading Star Search: Fresh talent descends on Jerez for F1 mega test

Star Search: Fresh talent descends on Jerez for F1 mega test originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Alexander RossiAlexanderRossiAndy SoucekAndySoucekBertrand BaguetteBertrandBaguetteBrendon HartleyBrendonHartleycircuito jerezCircuitoJerezDaniel RicciardoDaniel ZampieriDanielRicciardoDanielZampieriEsteban GutierrezEstebanGutierrezf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneGary PaffettGaryPaffettHo-Pin TungHo-pinTungjerezJR HildebrandJrHildebrandJules BianchiJulesBianchiLucas Di GrassiLucasDiGrassiMarco ZipoliMarcoZipoliMarcus EricssonMarcusEricssonMike ConwayMikeConwayMirko BortolottiMirkoBortolottiNico HulkenbergNicoHulkenbergOliver TurveyOliverTurveyPablo Sanchez LopezPabloSanchezLopezPaul Di RestaPaulDiRestayoung driver testyoung driversYoungDriversYoungDriverTest Sat, 12 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Honda finds loophole, new NSX to run in SuperGT]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-honda-nsx-running-in-supergt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-honda-nsx-running-in-supergt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-honda-nsx-running-in-supergt/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Honda NSX Prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

We knew it was coming and now we've got details. According to the latest reports out of Japan, the Honda NSX will live on, but mere mortals will never get a shot behind the wheel.

As previously reported, Honda has been actively petitioning the Japanese Automobile Federation (JAF) -- the organizing entity behind Japan's Super GT series -- to run a new front-engine racer in the touring car championship. A cursory reading of the rule book states that vehicles campaigning in SuperGT must be production vehicles (think GT-R, MR2, SC430). However, Honda's found a loop-hole.

Just as Toyota has done in recent years with the Supra (it's out of production), the Super GT rules specify that a vehicle's specs and design must be submitted to JAF to be approved. That means that a vehicle can be "production ready," if not actually in production. So for the 2010 SuperGT season, Honda will bring out an all-new race car based on the NSX prototype (seen above), reportedly packing a 3.4-liter V8.

So... Lawyers: 1. NSX's lovers: 0. But at least we get to see it race...


Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


[Source: Insideline]

REPORT: Honda finds loophole, new NSX to run in SuperGT originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AcuraAcura NSXAcuraNsxhondahonda nsxhonda nsx supergthonda super gtHondaNsxHondaNsxSupergtHondaSuperGtnsxnsx supergtNsxSupergtsuper gtsupergirlSuperGt Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:56:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: More super-slow-mo from the world of motorsport]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/video-more-super-slow-mo-from-the-world-of-motorsport/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/video-more-super-slow-mo-from-the-world-of-motorsport/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/video-more-super-slow-mo-from-the-world-of-motorsport/#comments Filed under: ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

We love racing. There are tons of different variations of fast vehicles in motion, and all provide a vast array of stimulation to our eyes and ears. Formula One, touring car, WRC, ALMS, bikes... all compelling in their own way and all are pretty damned fast. But as we've come to realize over the years, that which is fast also tends to look pretty cool when slowed to a crawl.

We've come to enjoy YouTube maven Mattzel for his slow-motion manipulation of all manners of racing footage, and we're happy to say that the high-resolution mix master has come strong with another compilation. This time there is more F1, more rally, more bikes, more crashes and more slow. Hit the jump to watch the video. We're thinking it's well worth three minutes of your time.

[Source: YouTube via Axis of Oversteer]

Continue reading VIDEO: More super-slow-mo from the world of motorsport

VIDEO: More super-slow-mo from the world of motorsport originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> axis of oversteerAxisOfOversteerf1rally racingRallyRacingslow motion racingslow motion videoSlowMotionRacingSlowMotionVideo Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Red Bull to place Raikkonen, Loeb and Coulthard in Peugeot 908 HDi at Le Mans]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/#comments Filed under: ,


Peugeot 908 HDi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Motorsports of late have been gripped by the crossover of racing drivers from one discipline to another, but one of the most established migrations in motor racing has always been between Formula One and Le Mans. The great (but unrelated) Hills - Phil and Graham - both won the F1 championship and Le Mans, but none have done so since Jochen Rindt in 1970. Lately, Peugeot especially has been seeking F1 drivers to pilot its 908 HDi against the venerable Audis at the famous 24-hour race, but that could step up a notch if the latest rumors from France hold any Evian.

Peugeot has registered three factory works cars to challenge Le Mans next year, plus one mystery car that has only been listed as a privateer entry. According to the latest reports, that entry could be fielded by Red Bull. The energy drink company has one of the most comprehensive networks of racing talent under its wings, but what's catching the most attention is three of its most prominent drivers.

Six-time World Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb, whose Citroen C4 rally car is sponsored by Red Bull, has raced Le Mans previously, and has been linked to a return to the endurance race. 2007 Formula One champion Kimi Raikkonen will likewise be driving next year in a Red Bull-sponsored C4 fielded by Citroen (Peugeot's sister company). Finally, David Coulthard was largely responsible for Red Bull's foray into F1, and though retired from actively racing, remains an advisor and test driver for the team.

While these rumors could prove nothing more than exactly that, if Red Bull were to bring these three talents to La Sarthe, they would surely be a force to be reckoned with.


Gallery: Peugeot 908 HDi


[Source: AUTOhebdo via Le Blog Auto and Axis of Oversteer]

REPORT: Red Bull to place Raikkonen, Loeb and Coulthard in Peugeot 908 HDi at Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 24 heures du mans24 hours of le mans24HeuresDuMans24HoursOfLeManscoulthard le manscoulthard peugeotCoulthardLeMansCoulthardPeugeotdavid coulthardDavidCoulthardkimi raikkonenKimiRaikkonenle mansLeMansloeb le mansloeb peugeotLoebLeMansLoebPeugeotpeugeotpeugeot 908peugeot 908 hdipeugeot le mansPeugeot908Peugeot908HdiPeugeotLeMansraikkonen le mansraikkonen peugeotRaikkonenLeMansRaikkonenPeugeotred bullred bull le mansRedBullRedBullLeManssebastien loebSebastienLoeb Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST <![CDATA[TAG Heuer re-issues the Silverstone Chronograph, renews McLaren sponsorship]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/tag-heuer-re-issues-the-silverstone-chronograph-renews-mclaren/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/tag-heuer-re-issues-the-silverstone-chronograph-renews-mclaren/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/tag-heuer-re-issues-the-silverstone-chronograph-renews-mclaren/#comments Filed under: ,

TAG Heuer Silverstone Chonograph - Click above to view high-res image gallery

Between the Carrera and the Monaco, TAG Heuer has plenty to offer anyone in the market for a classic driver's watch. But if you're having some trouble deciding between the two, the Swiss watchmaker has announced the re-release of the classic Silverstone Chronograph.

Originally introduced back in 1974, the Silverstone is inspired by the British circuit by the same name, with a rounded-square case inspired by the track's curves. It featured the first automatic chronograph movement, and earned a following all its own.

The re-release will be available with a brown or blue face with coordinating perforated alligator leather strap, and bears the classic Heuer logo before TAG took over. Only 1,500 examples of the re-issue will be released, with a price tag of approximately $6,500 apiece.

At the same time, TAG Heuer has announced a renewal of its partnership with the McLaren team that launched twenty-five years ago, marking it one of the longest-standing sponsorships in the sport's history. Follow the jump for press releases on both developments.


Gallery: TAG Heuer Silverstone Chronograph


[Source: TAG Heuer]

Continue reading TAG Heuer re-issues the Silverstone Chronograph, renews McLaren sponsorship

TAG Heuer re-issues the Silverstone Chronograph, renews McLaren sponsorship originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> heuerheuer silverstoneHeuerSilverstonemclarenmclaren tag heuerMclarenTagHeuertagtag heuertag heuer mclarentag heuer silverstonetag heuer silverstone chronographTagHeuerTagHeuerMclarenTagHeuerSilverstoneTagHeuerSilverstoneChronograph Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST <![CDATA[2010 F1 cars reportedly set to be unveiled at joint event in Valencia]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-f1-cars-reportedly-set-to-be-unveiled-at-joint-event-in-val/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-f1-cars-reportedly-set-to-be-unveiled-at-joint-event-in-val/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-f1-cars-reportedly-set-to-be-unveiled-at-joint-event-in-val/#comments Filed under:


BMW Sauber F1.09 unveiled at Valencia - Click above for high-res image gallery

We have to admit, it can get a bit tedious every January when each of the individual teams participating in the Formula One World Championship unveils its car for the upcoming season... one... at... a... time. This year, in fact, a couple of teams opted not to hold official debut events in light of financial restrictions. Seems a little silly to us when you consider how many millions of dollars each team spends every year, but they did it just the same. Next season looks to be even more berserk with an unprecedented 13 teams on the grid, even though three automakers have recently pulled out of the sport. But reports now indicate that rather than taking the wraps off one car at a time, all the teams will get together for one big event and present their cars together.

The debut event, which is shaping up to be an auto show in its own right, is expected to take place in Valencia, Spain, ahead of the first test session of the season. Exact details are being negotiated as we speak by the team principals at the meeting of the Formula One Teams Association in Monaco, where the F1 Business Forum is currently underway. But Brawn/Mercedes GP CEO Nick Fry has already revealed the basics. For our part, we'll look forward to bringing you all the new cars at once next month.

[Source: Autosport]

2010 F1 cars reportedly set to be unveiled at joint event in Valencia originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 formula one world championship2010FormulaOneWorldChampionshipf1F1 world championshipF1WorldChampionshipFIAformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnevalencia Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST <![CDATA[2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X ready to fill your track-rat, spec-racing needs [w/ VIDEO]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-dodge-viper-acr-x-ready-to-fill-your-track-rat-spec-racing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-dodge-viper-acr-x-ready-to-fill-your-track-rat-spec-racing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-dodge-viper-acr-x-ready-to-fill-your-track-rat-spec-racing/#comments Filed under: , ,

2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Dodge Viper has never been a particularly brilliant road car. But get it out to the track, and the snake's reason for being becomes abundantly clear. To emphasize its on-track prowess, introduce a new Viper spec series and provide a fitting send-off to the current generation coupe, Dodge and its SRT group is building a turn-key racer in the form of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X.

Priced at a cool $110,000, the ACR-X retains its 8.4-liter V10, but gains a set of racing headers and a low-restriction exhaust to increase output to 640 horsepower -- an additional 40 ponies over the standard model.

The suspension has been tuned for track duty, the weight has been cut by 160 pounds and a new set of aerodynamic enhancements improve downforce, while a roll cage, fuel cell and race seat get it ready to compete in the SCCA and NASA Viper Racing League. Production begins this spring, with the Dodge Viper Spec series kicking off in July of 2010. Make the jump for the press release and a video of the ACR-X's development.


Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X

Continue reading 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X ready to fill your track-rat, spec-racing needs [w/ VIDEO]

2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X ready to fill your track-rat, spec-racing needs [w/ VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20102010 dodge viper acr-x2010 dodge viper acrx2010DodgeViperAcr-x2010DodgeViperAcrxacr-xacrxdodgedodge viper spec seriesDodgeViperSpecSeriesviper Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:55:00 EST <![CDATA[Silverstone secures the British Grand Prix for the next 17 years]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/silverstone-secures-the-british-grand-prix-for-the-next-17-years/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/silverstone-secures-the-british-grand-prix-for-the-next-17-years/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/silverstone-secures-the-british-grand-prix-for-the-next-17-years/#comments Filed under: ,


BRDC President Damon Hill and Silvestone Managing Director Richard Phillips announce the new deal

Following months of negotiations and uncertainty, the British Racing Drivers Club has signed a deal with the FIA and Formula One Management to keep the British Grand Prix at Silverstone for the next seventeen years, starting with next year's race.

The deal is struck for the same amount of time (with a cancellation clause after ten years) that rival circuit Donington Park had signed with Bernie Ecclestone. That deal fell through, however, and Donington has gone into bankruptcy. In order to meet Formula One's demands, Silverstone - which first hosted the event in 1948 and has hosted it every year since 1987 - will undertake a massive renovation project.

Included in the plans are new grandstands, a new paddock area with new pits, and a potential switch to a new track layout. The Arena circuit was carved out of sections of the existing grand prix circuit for use by MotoGP, which will also be racing at Silverstone in the coming year. By containing it within the main area, the Arena circuit offers spectators a better view of the action, and the BRDC (headed by 1996 World Champion Damon Hill) has submitted the layout for FIA approval. Press release after the jump.

[Source: Silverstone]

Continue reading Silverstone secures the British Grand Prix for the next 17 years

Silverstone secures the British Grand Prix for the next 17 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> brdcbritish grand prixbritish racing drivers clubBritishGrandPrixBritishRacingDriversClubf1FIAformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnesilverstonesilverstone arenasilverstone circuitSilverstoneArenaSilverstoneCircuit Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST