Automotive

2019 Audi A6: The Digital Age Has Arrived

2019 Audi A6: The Digital Age Has Arrived The 2019 Audi A6 marks the eighth generation of the automaker’s midsize sedan.
New twin-turbo V6 features a higher compression ratio for greater torque.
Audi’s Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology is an integral part of the A6.
However, Audi is pushing what they call “Digitalization” more so than anything else.
Digital What?
Audi just rolled out their latest A6 and it seems to be a worthy successor to the previous seven generations of the Ingolstadt company’s midsize sedan. It’s got all the engine and drivetrain goodies you expect, but the latest A6 is all about Digitalization. Yup, you heard me: Digitalization.
We’ll get to what on Earth the marketing guys are up to with this whole “Digitalization” thing, but for now, let’s examine all the good gearhead stuff: the engine and chassis.
Power & Performance
The latest A6 features a new 3.0-liter TFSI V6 that cranks out more power and weighs 30 lbs. less. Said plant puts out 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque. Bottom line: zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Not bad for a big-ish sedan. There’s a twin-scroll turbocharger nestled inside the V of the engine to improve responsiveness and performance. The Audi valvelift system changes the duration of the valve opening depending on the throttle and engine speed. The high compression ratio of 11.2:1 means greater torque, of course, and also means you’ll most likely have to run premium gas.
The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic now transfers power to a quattro with “ultra” technology. No, seriously, they said that. “Ultra” technology, it would seem, is optimized for performance and efficiency and allows for intelligent, proactive control of the all-wheel drive system to help “predictively modify the torque application as the driver demands or the road conditions require.” Sure. Whatever.
The 2019 Audi A6 will come standard with Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology. This 48-volt system, stored under the rear cargo floor, takes power from the 10Ah battery to a belt alternator starter to enhance the start/stop system. Strangely a conventional starter is used for cold starting.
The A6’s powertrain is remarkably similar to the new A7.
The 2019 Audi A6 uses lightweight aluminum and high-strength steel for better torsional rigidity. Heavier materials, crucial to vehicle rigidity, are closer to the center for better handling and chassis response, according to Audi. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Digital Magic
Now, about that “Digitalization” thing. Digitalization (which doesn’t come up as a spelling error, interestingly enough) is Audi’s catchphrase for tying a whole bunch of tech together through their MMI interface. The MMI touch response replaces the old rotary dial and conventional buttons and controls with large, high-resolution touch displays: an upper 10.1-inch display controls the infotainment and a lower, 8.6-inch display for climate control, comfort, and convenience functions.
MMI search functions are based on free text input and natural voice control. So you can literally say things like “I’m cold,” and the A6 will respond with, “What temperature would you like to set the cabin to?” or, “My Orange Mocha Frappuccino is cold, I want a new one!!” and the A6 will respond with, “Settle down princess. There’s a Starbucks two blocks ahead.”
It gets even more goofy from there, unfortunately. The lower display has “natural handwriting input with whole-word recognition.” Audi says that users can write a word left to right, or in one spot, and the MMI is designed to identify each letter. They make no mention on the efficacy of doing this while in motion.
If that’s not enough, there’s a full QWERTY keyboard for input. The upper display works more or less like an iPad, with drag-and-drop features and up to 32 shortcuts for different functions.
2019 Audi A6 interior layout. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Virtual Cockpits & Big Stereos
And all this is just the start of the tech goodies along for the ride. Other features include the Audi virtual cockpit’s 12.3-inch display with HD resolution and two viewing modes: classic and infotainment (ugh). There’s an available Audi phone box to connect smartphones with the vehicle’s antenna to charge them inductively. Prestige trim levels get a standard, full-color heads-up display.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is standard.
Standard on Premium Plus and Prestige is a Bang & Olufsen Premium 3D Sound System. On Prestige models you get a Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System, which delivers the tunes through 19 speakers, powered by a 19-channel BeoCore amplifier and ICE power amplifiers with an output of 1,820 watts.
Pricing
Not all that bad, considering. The 2019 Audi A6 starts at around $59,000 for the Premium package and goes all the way up to a little over $67,000 for the full-zoot Prestige package.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz
Photos & Source: Audi of America, Inc.

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2019 Honda Insight Touring Review

2019 Honda Insight Touring Review The 2019 Honda Insight sports a hybrid powertrain and gets an estimated 51 mpg in the city. That’s not as good as a Toyota Prius, but the Insight has impressive styling and it doesn’t look like a fuel-stingy model. Honda isn’t just focusing on fuel mileage; they are instead touting it as being a quiet, comfortable, well-equipped, and affordable sedan.
This weekend, we drove the top-trim, 2019 Honda Insight Touring.
What’s New For 2019
Even though the Insight nameplate is not new, the 2019 Honda Insight is an all-new hybrid vehicle for the Japanese automaker.
Features & Options
The Insight Touring comes well-equipped with leather seats, rearview camera, heated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, eight-way power driver’s seat, heated outside mirrors, and a power moonroof. The Touring also comes with an eight-inch infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite and HD radio, and two USB ports. Touring models add navigation, HD digital traffic, voice recognition, and a 450-watt premium audio system with 10 speakers. HondaLink cloud-based services are also available.
Every Insight comes standard with the company’s Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver safety aids, which includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams.
Total MSRP including destination: $28,985.

Interior Highlights
Stepping into the 2019 Honda Insight reveals an upscale cabin with touchscreen infotainment, spacious accommodations front and rear, and a large trunk with plenty of cargo space. The interior reminded us of the current Accord sedan with a warm ambiance. Honda has done a good job with the material quality and overall fit and finish.
The leather-trimmed front seats are comfortable for six footers in the Touring, and the lower cushions adjust for tilt. Touring does come with a moonroof that cuts into a taller person’s headroom, however. The back seat has plenty of legroom, but headroom seems more limited than others in this segment. We thought visibility was good from the rear and sides for a small sedan.
The hybrid battery sits underneath the rear seat but we didn’t notice a sacrifice in room because of it. Insight offers a large trunk with a flat floor and low load height, making it easy for us to load cargo for our weekend trip.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The new Honda Insight is powered by an Atkinson-cycle 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine that makes 107 horsepower and 99 lb-ft. of torque. The engine boasts an exemplary 40.5 percent thermal efficiency. With the electric motor, Insight has a combined output of 151 horsepower and 197 lb-ft. of torque.
The engine can supply power directly to the front wheels through a clutch and fixed gear ratio. There is not a traditional or continuously variable transmission in this new hybrid. The Insight achieves an EPA-estimated 51/45 city/highway and 48 combined mpg.

Driving Dynamics
The new Insight is fun to drive around town and easy to maneuver in heavy traffic. The electric motor carried us without the gas engine and kept us moving forward in stop-and-go traffic in Denver this weekend. Honda says at lower speeds, the Insight will go up to a mile without the gasoline engine firing up. We averaged close to 48 mpg for the weekend, and we even pushed it hard at elevation in the mountains.
The electric motor provides smooth and easy power at low speeds, but when we pushed hard on the pedal heading up I-70 west of Denver, the gas engine noise reaches the cabin. You will hear the engine speed rising and falling in line with the accelerator pedal. The experience is similar to a car equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission which is a disappointment.
It’s not a sporty sedan, but acceleration is strong because of the torque from the electric motor. Honda’s LaneWatch system (Touring only) puts cameras on the sideview mirrors and displays their view on the entertainment screen when you activate the turn signal. It’s an excellent system for seeing someone in your blind spot.
Conclusion
The 2019 Honda Insight is an affordable sedan that doesn’t look like a traditional hybrid. It comes in an attractive package with a comfortable, upscale interior. Honda priced the Insight right – even the upper Touring trim comes in under $30,000.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Honda Insight Gallery

2019 Honda Insight Official Site.
Photos: Honda North America.

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Roadway Deaths Dip Slightly; Overall Outlook Still Bleak

Roadway Deaths Dip Slightly; Overall Outlook Still Bleak New report shows U.S. roadway deaths dipped slightly this year.
However, experts believe the news isn’t so great, saying we are merely “treading water.”
Drivers can greatly reduce their risk of an accident by following a few simple safety tips.
Tapering Off
Driving carries an inherent risk, whether we do it for pleasure or necessity. The National Safety Council finds in the last two years, around 80,000 total roadway deaths have occurred in the United States. The latest statistics reflect a slow leveling off, with the number of fatalities in the first six months of 2018 dipping slightly. (Less than 0.5 percent from six-month 2017 estimates).
While the drop is hopeful, experts say it may only be a “stabilization” of the steepest two-year increase in over 50 years, which occurred between 2014 and 2016. If preliminary 2018 estimates hold, the U.S. could see its third straight year with around 40,000 roadway deaths.
“When it comes to this leading cause of accidental death, we aren’t making progress – we’re treading water,” explained Ken Kolosh, Manager of Statistics, National Safety Council. “We cannot accept more than 18,700 deaths as the price of mobility.”
Current Trend
Approximately 18,720 people died on U.S. roadways between January and June, compared to the Council’s revised estimate of 18,770 during the same period last year. Another 2.1 million are estimated to have sustained serious crash-related injuries during the first six months of 2018. This represents a one percent drop from 2017 six-month projections by comparison.
The National Safety Council collects fatality data monthly from all 50 states and leverages data from the National Center for Health Statistics.

Holidays Are Risky
Holidays are increasingly deadly, the upcoming Labor Day weekend being no exception. The National Safety Council estimates 420 people will be killed during the three-day weekend, which begins at 6 p.m. Friday, August 31st, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Monday, September 3rd.
“Americans must employ those defensive driving skills we learn in driver’s ed classes: slow down, pay attention, and be prepared for anything,” said Maureen Vogel, Senior Public Relations Manager and Spokeswoman, National Safety Council. “Do not let your desire to get to your destination override safety.”
It Can Wait
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving accounted for 3,450 roadway deaths in 2016. Distracted driving also caused the nearly 400,000 reported injuries during that same period.
“It takes on average 4.6 seconds to send a text message,” explained Special First Lieutenant and Traffic Safety Specialist Jim Flegel of the Michigan State Police. “At 55 mph, that is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded. The sad part is that 100 percent of crashes related to distracted driving are preventable.”

Safe & Sound
The National Safety Council and law enforcement officials recommend driving defensively, putting away mobile devices, and getting plenty of sleep beforehand. And remember: you can learn a lot from a dummy.
“First and foremost, seat belts save lives,” Flegel said. “If more drivers and passengers took that extra few seconds to put on their seat belts, it would drastically reduce the number of crash fatalities.”
“We hope these numbers remind drivers to slow down, buckle up, pay attention, and drive defensively so we can get on the road to zero deaths,” Kolosh added.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Safety Tips From The Michigan State Police
Drive defensively.
Limit distractions inside the vehicle.
Obey all traffic laws and posted signs.
Wear your seat belt each and every time.
Be aware of your surroundings while driving.
Never operate a vehicle impaired on alcohol or drugs.
If your day involves alcohol, plan ahead and designate a sober driver.
Resources From The National Safety Council
Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained and take care of any open recalls.
Consider ways to encourage your teenage children to drive safely and responsibly.
Take a brief tutorial of your vehicle’s active safety features if it is equipped with them.

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Nissan & DeNA Begin Field Testing Robo-Vehicle Service

Nissan & DeNA Begin Field Testing Robo-Vehicle Service Nissan and DeNA will begin testing a new robo-vehicle mobility service called Easy Ride on March 5th. The field test, held in the Minatomirai district of Yokohama, in Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture, will have participants in vehicles equipped with automated technology. A preassigned route has been established near Nissan’s global headquarters and the Yokohama World Porters shopping center.
Points of Interest
Nissan and DeNA will be examining what they call Easy Ride’s “unique service functions.” Through a mobile app, passengers can text or use voice commands to choose where they want to go from a list of recommended destinations. An in-car screen will show an additional 500 points of interest and events in the vicinity, with about 40 discount coupons for certain area retailers and restaurants offered to passengers.
Planned Expansion
The two companies have set up a remote operations center to monitor the experience of each Easy Ride participant. Nissan and DeNA say they are developing different “service designs for driverless environments,” while expanding available routes, optimizing vehicle distribution, and the pick-up/drop-off process. The goal is for Easy Ride to achieve a full service capacity, complete with multilingual support, in the early 2020s.
Participants complete a survey about their overall experience, which Nissan and DeNA will use to further refine the service. The video below explains more.

Easy Ride Gallery

Photos, Video & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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Past, Present & Future: 4 Evolving Trends In Automotive & Insurance

Past, Present & Future: 4 Evolving Trends In Automotive & Insurance From the Model T to Tesla’s autopilot-enabled vehicle, the automotive industry has come a long way – and it’s not slowing down. With potential for new technology and functionality growing daily, automakers are paving the way for the future of transportation . . . and insurance. Let’s take a look at how the auto industry has transformed insurance over the years, and what’s to come.
GPS Systems
Been awhile since you last pulled your trusty Rand McNally atlas from the glove box to help guide your journey? Those days probably seem like another lifetime. How we receive directions has changed dramatically since then. Today, there are 24 U.S.-based GPS satellites orbiting the globe, each providing guidance to drivers everywhere with just the push of a button.
While the availability of GPS has simplified how we get from point A to point B, it has also created an added benefit for insurers by providing a valuable cache of driver data. Thanks to this information, providers will soon be able to adapt policies based on driver habits, creating personalized plans that fit the needs of each individual.

Telematics
Data gleaned from GPS technology is just one part of the picture. A fairly fresh idea, auto telematics provide opportunities to do even more with driver data, extending into everything from speedometer tracking to mileage logs. However, according to a recent Deloitte report, 74 percent of consumers are not too keen on sharing that data. But given the potential benefits of telematics, insurers are undeterred and have begun offering added value to drivers willing to share their driving behaviors. Those who do can enjoy savings such as lower premiums based on driving performance.
Mercedes PRO Connect, found on the forthcoming Sprinter, is an example of an on-board telematics system. The technology helps with the logistical challenges and transport requirements fleet managers face, regardless of how many vehicles they oversee. Mercedes PRO links the fleet manager with each vehicle and driver so they can better manage assignments and vital vehicle information like location, fuel level or maintenance intervals. Photo: MBUSA.
Driverless Cars
Driverless cars aren’t exactly new to the conversation, but as they creep closer to a mainstream reality they’re worth another look. It’s predicted that in just two years, 10 million driverless cars will be on the road, and automakers like General Motors and Audi are already paving the way. But what does this mean for insurance? To keep pace, insurers will need to build relationships with automakers to better understand new vehicle capabilities and how they affect policies. Together they can work to build relevant plans for an autonomous future.
Backup Cameras
While proper usage of mirrors is still an important part of a safe driving experience, now 30 percent of drivers say they rely on their backup camera to direct them when in reverse. And that demand continues to grow, with more than half of drivers saying they want a backup camera in their next vehicle. Well, they’re about to get their wish: by May, all new models will be required to include a backup camera.
While this all sounds promising, more technology means more things can and will break – making products like extended service contracts when you purchase a vehicle that much more valuable.
When we look at how much the auto industry continues to change, it’s apparent that insurance will need to continue to evolve with it. These are just a few of the many ways insurers can adapt coverage for new technology to keep customers on track.
Scott McLaren is the Chief Marketing Officer of Fortegra Financial Corporation, a Tiptree Inc. company. He once flew the Saturn VUE Lightship and awarded a Saturn Sky to Travis Pastrana for the first double back flip in the history of the X Games.

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2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Heads To U.S. Dealers

2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Heads To U.S. Dealers Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) says the first shipment of Eclipse Cross CUVs has arrived in the United States. The vehicle was unveiled in December and will begin making its way to U.S. dealers from Port Hueneme on the West Coast. The Eclipse Cross is Mitsubishi’s second all-new vehicle to hit the U.S. for 2018. The new Outlander PHEV arrived in dealerships at the end of last year and is currently on sale across the country.
Available Features
The new Eclipse Cross features a 1.5-liter direct-injected turbo engine, creating 152 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 184 lb-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm. All-wheel drive is available for additional traction via Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control system. Other features include an available panoramic sunroof, heads-up display, and lane departure warning. The Eclipse Cross also comes with Mitsubishi Connect, which includes a Telematics Control Unit, a 4G LTE cellular modem, and a GPS system.
“2018 represents an exciting next chapter for Mitsubishi Motors, and the all-new Eclipse Cross is a large part of that story,” said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, MMNA. “The Eclipse Cross builds on the strong Mitsubishi heritage of automotive performance, technology, and fun-to-drive dynamics revived in a CUV.”
2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross arrives in the United States. Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Pricing
The Eclipse Cross goes on sale early next month with a starting MSRP of $23,295. Trim levels include ES, LE, SE, and SEL. Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. is responsible for all research and development, marketing, and sales for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States, and operates through a network of approximately 360 dealers.
“We’re excited to add the Eclipse Cross to our established CUV lineup and know it will continue to fuel the brand’s current sales momentum,” Swearingen added.
Photos & Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

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McLaren 600LT Gets Stealth Grey Paint & Tons of “Visual Carbon”

McLaren 600LT Gets Stealth Grey Paint & Tons of “Visual Carbon” McLaren 600LT receives bespoke treatments by McLaren Special Operations (MSO).
Debut set for the Pebble Beach Concept Lawn this Sunday, August 26th.
The McLaren 600LT is already a stunning car – does the new paint really add anything?
Special Editions
McLaren Special Operations, the McLaren in-house custom shop that goes by the initials MSO is rolling out its latest bit of special confectionery. The McLaren 600LT in Stealth Grey debuts on the Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this Sunday, August 26th. Fine, okay. But what makes this one so special?
Say what you want about McLaren’s F1 team these days (they’re abysmally terrible) but their road car division sure is cranking out the good stuff. And, like all high end supercar makers, McLaren has their own internal customizing division.
You know, for those of you that can’t buy anything off the rack, even if what’s off the rack are some of the best sports cars money can buy.
Paint Jobs
What we’re dealing with here is a ramped up version of the Woking company’s already potent 600LT. Which is already kind of a hopped-up version of the 570S; meaning less weight, more power, and that longer tail (that’s what the LT stands for).
The main distinguishing feature is the Stealth Grey Bespoke paint finish with a Mattee Black and McLaren (i.e. papaya) Orange Exterior Pack to show off the car’s aerodynamic features. McLaren makes a big deal out of this shade and that it’s “bespoke,” but I’m not all that ruffled by it. So what, you did a paint to sample and it’s a dark grey/flat-ish black color.
McLaren 600LT in Stealth Grey by MSO. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Function & Induction
Also added to the mix is a Visual Carbon Fiber Roof Scoop, inspired by the McLaren F1, but not nearly as well integrated, visually at least. Yes, it’s a fully functional air intake. Yes, you can hear the induction roar better. Woking has thoughtfully included a track telemetry camera and integrated it into the scoop to record “inspirational moments.”
Besides the paint and that scoop, you’ll also find all three of the optional Carbon Fiber Upgrade Packs on this 600LT. That means the door mirrors, exterior door inserts, front splitter, rear bumper, diffuser, and rear deck and service cover are all made out of the cool, space-age stuff.
There is also an MSO Defined Carbon Fiber Roof and Cantrails, along with Carbon Fiber Front Fender Louvers.
No, I have no idea what “Defined” refers to in this case. Yes, all of this liberal use of carbon fiber reduces weight, so huzzah! The last of the lightweight goodies are the 10-spoke forged alloy wheels with a gloss black finish.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Visual Carbon & Big Stereos
Of course they’ve diddled with the insides, constantly reminding you how track-focused things are with a slew of MSO knick-knacks. Super-Lightweight Carbon Fiber Racing Seats, sourced from the McLaren Senna, with McLaren (i.e. papaya) Orange contrast stitching. A Carbon Fiber Interior Upgrade Pack with central tunnel and door insert panels, and a harness bar and six-point harnesses from the MSO Clubsport Pro Pack. The visual carbon fiber roof scoop cover is incorporated into the headliner, and the twin visual carbon fiber intake hoses for the scoop are integrated into the 600LT’s cabin design.
Again with the “visual” carbon. Is there an “invisible” option? Cause that’d be cool.
For those that insist on overdone car stereos, the McLaren 600LT in Stealth Grey comes with a 12-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system.
Pricing
How much? Well, with the McLaren 600LT starting at $240,000, you’ve got to figure this one is going to be expensive. And it is: $363,500. Although Woking mysteriously says to re-create the car, it would cost approximately $363,500, but never say, exactly, that 363 large is the asking price.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz
McLaren 600LT in Stealth Grey by MSO Gallery

Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

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Brabham BT62 Emerges During Monterey Car Week

Brabham BT62 Emerges During Monterey Car Week Brabham BT62 makes North American debut during Monterey Car Week.
The BT62 features a new tribute livery in honor of racing legend Dan Gurney.
What makes the Brabham BT62 so special and unique? Tony Borroz walks us through.
Coming to America
Okay, get set. This’ll be our first chance to lay eyes on the Brabham BT62, the track/radical street car direct from the great Grand Prix constructors themselves. And, as a very classy, very nice nod to its debut in America, Brabham have painted their little monster up in a tribute to our own Dan Gurney.
Legendary Figures
Now, there are some who do not know who Dan Gurney is, and you have my pity. To say he was one of America’s greatest race car drivers would be glaringly inaccurate. Dan Gurney was one of the greatest race car drivers ever. Period. When some half-bright young-un says something about Ayrton Senna being the greatest of all time, I just shake my head and usually say “Dan Gurney” under my breath.
Paying Tributes
So, Brabham is right on target with its tribute livery in honor of Dan. Gurney was the first ever driver to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix in a Brabham racing car and, just like the Brabham BT7 that Gurney raced to victory at the French Grand Prix in 1964, the BT62 you’ll see sitting on The Lawn at Pebble will be finished in Brabham’s distinctive Green and Gold colors. saWEET!
Working in conjunction with technical partner Michelin, the Brabham BT62 will be at the tire manufacturer’s stand at Laguna Seca on Friday, August 24th and Sunday, August 26th. Photo: Brabham Automotive.
Design & Performance
The BT62 has been designed from the ground up with a bunch of exceptional engineering details. The BT62 draws on the project team’s vast experience to create a car crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, with an equally aggressive aerodynamic package, and an optimal balance between function and form. “Pure-bred for the track,” say the Aussies and I will not argue with them.
How about an in-house, Brabham-built naturally aspirated 5.4 liter V8 plant? With a power-to-weight ratio of 730 ps per ton and a dry weight of just 972 kg?
Family Honors
Brabham Automotive founder David Brabham, and yes, he’s Jack and Betty’s son, the same David Brabham that is a triple 24 Hours of Le Mans winner and two time American Le Mans Series winner, will be presenting the Brabham BT62 at Monterey.
And, if this thing is at all like Black Jack’s racing cars, it will be awesome to behold; no higher tech than it needs to be; engineered, but not over-engineered, reliable as an anvil, fast as lightning. And only $1,300,000? Sign. Me. Up.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz
Photos & Source: Brabham Automotive.

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Smyrna, Tennessee Receives New Investments From Nissan

Smyrna, Tennessee Receives New Investments From Nissan 2019 Nissan Altima production is underway in Smyrna, Tennessee.
Smyrna Vehicle Assembly is one of the highest-volume plants in North America.
As a result of ongoing investments, Smyrna has produced nearly 4.6 million Altimas since 1992.
Local Investments
Nissan North America is preparing a $170 million investment for the Smyrna, Tennessee and Canton, Mississippi assembly plants. The investment supports 2019 Altima production already underway with new tooling and calibration equipment. To date, Nissan’s U.S. manufacturing investments now top $12 billion.
“Nissan’s continued investment in our manufacturing facilities underpins our commitment to building top-quality vehicles in the U.S., as well as our valued workforce and the communities where we do business,” explained Heath Holtz, Senior Vice President, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management and Purchasing, Nissan North America, Inc.
The first 2019 Nissan Altima rolls off the assembly line on August 23rd 2018 in Smyrna, Tennessee. Photo: Nissan North America.
Essential Upgrades
Further updates include a laser brazing system for more flexible trunk lid welding, and a polyurethane stone guard coat paint system. Nissan says the forthcoming calibration equipment ensures the reliability and functionality of ProPILOT Assist.
Cornerstone Facility
Six Nissan models call Smyrna home: Altima, Leaf, Maxima, Pathfinder, Rogue, and the Infiniti QX60. Last year, Nissan Smyrna produced more than 628,000 vehicles, making it one of the highest-volume plants in North America. The plant employs 8,400 people and has built over 13 million vehicles since opening in 1983.
The Altima is arguably one of the most significant vehicles in Smyrna. That is it accounts for nearly 4.6 of those 13 million vehicles.
The 2019 Altima comes in five different trim levels, including an “Edition One” launch model. The new Altima will feature two engines when it arrives this fall, including Nissan’s first production-ready Variable Compression Turbo.
“The new Altima sets a new standard for the sedan market, and we are ready to bring it to the road for customers,” Holtz added.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.

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