Automotive

I.D. Buzz Cargo: VW’s New Mystery Machine For The New Age

I.D. Buzz Cargo: VW’s New Mystery Machine For The New Age The I.D. Buzz Cargo has a range of more than 340 miles according to Volkswagen.
The 230V socket provides power for tools and other equipment without an additional generator.
When is VW going to release it? They didn’t exactly say . . .
Volkswagen has this on again, off again thing in going with the reboot of their bus. You know, the Type 2, the hippie bus. They’ve gone through several iterations with this guy. All of them would be produced. But none of them ever were. However, VW says this one is for real.
It’s called I.D. Buzz Cargo. What is this? A cartoon character?
Building A Mystery
Well, it is kind of cartoon-ish looking, what with that snub nose and permanent smile on its face. And those huge expanses of bodywork on the sides are just begging for a Mystery Machine paint job. But if you put all that aside, you can see VW is serious with this thing. As they flatly state, the I.D. Buzz Cargo “has the potential to write history as one of the most advanced light commercial vehicles.”
That’s a big claim, but does VW have the specs to back it up?
The Buzz Cargo, like other vehicles in VW’s I.D. line, is entirely electric. The Buzz Cargo aims to be the urban delivery vehicle in the coming years – at least for smaller stuff, like packages from Amazon. Think of it as the “last mile” delivery vehicle from Tesla, if Tesla were one of the largest automakers on the planet.
VW I.D. Buzz Cargo. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Payload & Storage
This concept (yes, it’s just a concept for now, but VW says they’re going to make it, honest, cross their hearts, pinky swear!) shows the path the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles division will take. Clocking in at 198.7 inches long, 77.8 inches wide, and 77.3 inches tall, the Buzz Cargo aims to be small on the outside – perfect for urban environments – while being big on the inside – perfect for hauling.
The rear overhang extends about four inches over the vehicle. Maximum payload is 1,760 lbs., or about the all up weight of a Lotus Elise.
The interior cargo space includes a shelving system, so there’s no sliding door on the driver’s side. The front doors and sliding door open electrically, via a sensor, which will come in handy. Essentially, the I.D. Buzz Cargo recognizes authorized persons via a digital key sent to the van by smartphone.
The I.D. Buzz debuted at the 2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. “The Volkswagen brand’s big electric offensive begins in the year 2020 with a completely new vehicle architecture,” explained Dr. Herbert Diess at the time, Chairman of the Board of Management for Volkswagen. “That is when we will be launching an entirely new generation of fully connected, all-electric vehicles to the market.” Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Autonomous Capability
Instead of two single seats up front, there’s a driver’s seat and a double bench-seat on the front passenger side. The middle section of the bench folds down, serving as a work space with an integrated laptop. If the driver is using the automated “I.D. Pilot” mode, work can even be done on the move, since the I.D. Buzz Cargo aims to be fully autonomous. The driver can activate the Level 4 autonomous mode by pushing on the steering wheel for a few seconds. The steering wheel then retracts into the instrument panel.
Once in autonomous mode, the driver’s seat turns 15 degrees to the right in order to work better with that laptop. While on the move, they can handle bills of lading and paperwork, and all that other stuff delivery people have to sort through.
Think of it as the last mile delivery vehicle from Tesla, if Tesla were one of the largest automakers on the planet.Click To TweetAugmented Reality
Important information projects onto the road in 3D via an Augmented Reality heads-up display. The information remains in the driver’s line-of-sight, allowing them to concentrate on road conditions. An integrated tablet controls the infotainment and climate functions. The main driving controls are located on the steering wheel.
The rear view mirrors are gone, replaced by cameras projecting images onto small screens in the cab of the I.D. Buzz Cargo.
VW I.D. Buzz Concept interior layout. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Does The I.D. Buzz Cargo Deliver?
Other nifty distinguishing features include the new solar roof. This photovoltaic system generates enough power to extend range by up to 9.3 miles per day. The longer this thing is in the daylight, the further it can drive, which should make fleet managers happy.
Add all this up and combine it with the I.D. Buzz Cargo’s 340 mile range, and you have a very usable option for urban delivery services. Of curse, the question, yet again, is will VW be serious this time. I bet they are. After the diesel-gate scandal, VW has invested in EVs big time. And they’re smart enough to realize there is plenty of money in the commercial sector.
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: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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2019 BMW X2 M35i: It’s A Bird! It’s A Plane! It’s A…We Don’t Know!

2019 BMW X2 M35i: It’s A Bird! It’s A Plane! It’s A…We Don’t Know! The 2019 BMW X2 M35i is the newest member of the brand’s Sports Activity Coupe family.
But what does that mean exactly?
The engine is pretty cool – we know at least that much.
Drum roll please because here it is, the all-new 2019 BMW X2 M35i. The latest in a growing lineup of those sort-of-SUV/sort-of-a-coupe things that are real popular in Europe, and only mildly popular here in The States. What BMW is after here is people who want everything: a car and a sports car and something swoopy and something practical and something sort of off-roady.
Oh, and the X2 M35i is small too.
So Many Rugrats
The 2019 BMW X2 M35i is, as with all things BMW, pretty capable. But, as with much of what’s rolling out of the Bavarian’s factories, it’s one of a bunch of half-way between this and that and another thing model. I swear to Kurt Tank that BMW has so many M variants and X models rolling around, it’s like keeping track of the members of the chorale at a Wagner opera.
It’s tiring and I’m not sure why they do this.
2019 BMW X2 M35i. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
BMW has so many M variants and X models rolling around, it's like keeping track of the members of the chorale at a Wagner opera.Click To TweetPower & Performance
What we have here is the newest member of BMW’s X2 Sports Activity Coupe family. The new X2 has an “extroverted” design. The 2.0L TwinPower turbocharged 4-cylinder puts out 302 horsepower and 332 lb-ft. of torque. No major engine component went untouched either. The crank has larger main bearings for better reinforcement. The pistons are new with a slightly dropped compression ratio (down to 9.5:1 vs. the previous 10.2:1). The intake has a higher flow tract and the cooling system has been upgraded.
The turbo is larger and boost increases.
All that energy goes to the ground via BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. The eight-speed sport automatic with Launch Control also helps. The X2 wears an M Sport Differential on the front axle for the first time ever, and features a Torsen limited slip with a 39 percent lock-up. The transmission has steering wheel shift paddles, M Performance specific tuning, and updated gear ratios.
The 2019 BMW X2 M35i hits 60 in just 4.9 seconds. Not bad.
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Suspension & Braking
On top of the boss engine is the M Sport suspension, with stiffer spring and damper rates, and a 10 mm lower ride height. The rear axle carrier and lateral control arms improve driving dynamics, according to BMW. An optional adaptive damper suspension with two different manually selectable modes is also available for the 2019 BMW X2 M35i.
The braking system has these fancy Dark Blue M metallic calipers for consistently short braking distances.
Interior Treatments
Complimenting the exterior design is the M Sport Package, with a standard M Sport leather steering wheel, shift paddles, and sport seats. The optional front M sport seats (buy these) have integrated headrests and aggressive lateral support for both driver and passenger.
The M sport seats are available upholstered in Magma Red Dakota Leather with perforations and black accents, or Black Dakota Leather with perforations. The standard sport seats come in Black or Oyster SensaTec.
The latest generation of BMW’s ConnectedDrive and Apple CarPlay are also along for the ride.
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Pricing & Availability
How much? BMW doesn’t say, but then again, how cheap are BMWs? Not very. Production for the U.S. market begins in November.
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
2019 BMW X2 M35i Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.

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Displate Metal Prints Review: Cars, Movies, 80s Retro & More.

Displate Metal Prints Review: Cars, Movies, 80s Retro & More. Every so often, we at Automoblog get asked to review something. Sometimes those things land on my desk (literally) and I get to level my opinion at it. Such was the case with Displate, a company that makes a variety of graphic design pieces printed onto metal. (Go to the end of this review for a discount code).
I think the name is a portmanteau (look it up) on the words display and plate.
Out of The Ordinary
For one thing, I don’t know what to call this. It’s different than art in a traditional sense. What Displate makes are like metal posters. The company describes them as “magnet-mounted metal prints.” These prints cover a bunch of different subjects – everything from basic graphics and movies, to famous people and cars. But instead of them being a paper poster, they’re printed on metal!
It’s not a revolutionary idea, but it’s not a bad one either, especially if you are an artist. Displate products are designed by talented artists who earn money for their contributions.
Endless Selection
I was asked to pick a “poster” to review and, as expected, I picked a car-themed one. In the largest size available. I have a tendency to like large works of art. It came from seeing Gericault’s Raft of The Medusa at an impressionable age. Displate products come in three sizes, including 35.4″ x 25.2.”
They had a nice selection of blue print-esque versions of various cars, so I went with one of those. Specifically, a Ferrari 166 MM. A personal favorite. People like my mechanic friend Carl would go for one of Displate’s cool Audi blueprints (he’s got a real thing going for Audis these days).

Lions & Tigers & The 80s!
In case you’re wondering, Displate makes more than just car posters. They actually have a ton of stuff on offer. They have blueprints of radial airplane engines (one I would have gladly taken), maps of famous cities, trippy space art (no word on any black light versions), and groovy creatures like foxes and tigers and such. There is even an 80s retro category.
So in a lot of ways, they should have most hobbies and tastes covered.
The only real areas Displate seems to be missing is older stuff of a nostalgic bent. It’d be great to see some Margaret Bourke White or Wee Gee photos from the 1930s. Perhaps the audience is not wide enough?
My Displate Ferrari print is awesome. Can you guess the one behind it?
Shipping & Packaging
Much to my surprise, days after running my request up the chain, a bloody great package appeared on my doorstep. It was wrapped in some sort of bi-colored, bi-faced rubberized plastic. There were two flat boxes taped together. At first I was puzzled. It weighed a ton. I only ordered a single metal wall hanging. I un-taped them and sliced the bags off the boxes to reveal identical Displate shipping boxes. These were cheerfully colored, childishly decorated, custom die-cut affairs.
According to the company, expected delivery time is three to five business days, depending on the shipping destination. Full refunds are granted if the product is returned within 100 days of delivery.
Apart from the decorative failings, the packaging was magnificent. In some cases, I’m a real sucker for good packaging. I’ve worked with companies that handle these sorts of things, so well-designed packaging gets my attention. I open the lid (it’s pretty obvious which way is up) and find cut stacks of corrugated cardboard (miter cut at the corners, no less).
It was topped with a single layer of corrugated cardboard as a buffer.

Getting The Goods
The buffer layer has a complicated and garish logo die cut right in the center, but there are two relief arches for your fingers to grab and easily remove. While this is a nice touch, it also seemed like a waste of time and money. Or at least that die cut logo did.
Beneath that was – taDAH – my line drawing of a Ferrari 166 MM. It’s wrapped in a clear plastic envelope with some high-tech adhesive closure. Even the bag is more than it needs to be. But beneath the line drawing of the Ferrari, there’s another die-cut buffer layer . . . and through the overdone cut out logo I see another Displate poster.
What the . . .
Displate sent me not one, not two, but five of their fine products. In addition to the 166 MM, they also sent drawings of a Ferrari 275 GTB, a Porsche Speedster and, somewhat inexplicably, a print of The Stig.
Even more inexplicable, a print tribute to the movie Baby Driver.

An Extra Treat
The Stig looks like something a 14-year-old would put on his bedroom wall right next to the poster of a scantily clad, distressingly pneumatic woman holding a Brand Beer. The Baby Driver one . . . well, it’s about as tastelessly executed and badly done as the movie it is trying to celebrate. Baby Driver is horrible, not just as a car movie (and it is that) but as a movie movie.
While browsing through Displate’s online catalog, I saw the Baby Driver poster and literally chuckled out loud and said, “well I won’t be getting that, I can assure you.” And now a jealous and vengeful deity of sorts has allegorically slapped me in the face with around two square feet of sheet metal.
Displate will probably sell a million of them.

High-Quality, Easy To Hang
What I was going for was something I thought was a blueprint (I have a certain fetish for blueprints) but it’s actually more like a chalk line-drawing on a blackboard. Not exactly a bad look and it can work in a bunch of different locations. My location for the Ferraris and Porsche will be in the large shed/small barn I am slowly clearing and making into a garage. They should fit right in with my old framed racing posters, swoopy hubcaps, bits of crashed race cars, and the like.
The fit and finish on everything Displate sent me was top notch. The edges are rolled and mitered around the back, so there’s no sharp edges or anything. The surface is not overly glossy either. It’s almost a satin-like finish so it won’t glare (even if my photography doesn’t show that).
The fit and finish on everything @Displate sent me was top notch. The edges are rolled and mitered around the back, so there's no sharp edges. Click To TweetObviously these things are not meant to go in barns (even though mine will, and my barn is going to be a super-cool garage when I get done).
Given the breadth of what Displate has on offer, they could work well almost anywhere. Offices, depending on your business, beauty salons, restaurants; any business really. If your home has a full on media room, Displate has tons of movie and TV-themed stuff that would work like a charm. And if that media room is where your game console resides, you could mix it up with game-themed Displate posters too.
Hanging them is fairly straight forward.

The Stig Rides Shotgun
That leaves me with The Stig and Baby Driver? I might use them as a drip pan to catch oil leaks. It also occurs to me that if The Stig poster was a little bigger, I could set him in the passenger seat and use the carpool lane. Or not. Every time I try to get clever that way, I usually end up talking with the cops and/or a judge.
That rarely turns out well for me.
You try it with The Stig and let us know. Your mileage may vary.
Want one? Displate made us a special discount code just for Automoblog readers. Use the coupon code AUTO20 for 20% off everything.
Disclosure: This article is sponsored by Displate and the products used in the review were sent to us for free for an honest review. All views and opinions expressed here are my own. Check out our advertising guidelines to see why we’d never steer you wrong.
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

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Letter From The UK: Autonomous Britain

Letter From The UK: Autonomous Britain

That thunderous noise you hear is the future rushing towards us like an out-of-control freight train. On board is the usual motley collection of intolerance, crime, war, pestilence, regret, love, an awakening Eco-consciousness, and automotive autonomy.
In the UK, as elsewhere probably, when politicians spy a bandwagon they will leap on it with alacrity. Autonomous cars, we learn, will be The Next Big Thing. Of course, many of the people who are so hot for this new technology are not likely to be around for the day when driverless cars rule the road.
Because that day is still a long way off.
This writer, for example, unless he is very lucky or becomes a rare scientific anomaly, will most likely be happily driving a heavenly V8 on the long and winding road to the town of Salvation before autonomy fully takes the wheel. The fact is, despite the wholesale rush to achieve this proposed motoring Nirvana, many, many ordinary folk are far from being convinced and this is why:
Autonomy Trials
Recently, we witnessed on a news program, a controlled test. An autonomous car containing, essentially, us, was directed at two oncoming vehicles; one was a car, the other was a quad-bike with dummy rider. “Our” vehicle had to make a decision: It selected the soft option and veered into the quad-bike. In saving “us” it chose to “kill” the rider. It is this sort of dilemma the industry faces.
Another person viewing with me wondered about the idea of a “safe,” empty lane as a third option, which is a thought. The point is, the system is far from foolproof, and there are plenty of fools out there on our roads.
The UK is also about to see trials (in a controlled environment they say) of platooning driverless commercial trucks, operated, we are told, by a single human driver. Expert voices were heard enthusing about this idea but also (and much more loudly than before), there were expert dissenting voices. It is clear to much of the British public that our autonomous future is far from ready.
Earlier this year, FCA US LLC delivered 500 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans to Waymo to boost the tech company’s autonomous driving program. Waymo’s early rider program in Phoenix, Arizona gave area residents a chance to experience a self-driving vehicle on their daily commutes. Waymo will use the feedback to enhance how they design future self-driving technology. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Brits Don’t Trust The Technology
A large majority surveyed by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers recently responded that they (younger people tend to be more accepting, to be fair) do not trust this technology. They would not feel safe at any speed. Briefly, they worry about hacking, other driver’s actions, personal security, injury, or an untimely death. Conversely, they like much of the safety technology that is filtering down. Apparently, we like safety gadgets just as long as we remain in total control, seems to be the thinking. Further, the increasing popularity of electric cars demonstrates the way Brits are thinking right now.
The Car As Transport
In the beginning of the modern age, the horseless carriage replaced the horse. The joy of driving for the sake of it was soon established as motorists discovered the speed and thrill of skillfully operating a piece of sophisticated machinery. Now, the cold, dead hand of government does not care for speed. It does not care about your thrills or your freedoms; it cares only about control. Dissenters cannot say this technology is wrong; they cannot say it is bad. For all they know, it might turn out to be brilliant and we will all laugh at how naive we were, yet the concerns about personal freedoms remain.
More than twenty auto manufacturers have identified 2020 as a target to offer vehicles with higher levels of automation. SBD Automotive, a technology, consultancy, and research company, notes that by that time, cyber-attacks are expected to expose the automotive industry to $70 billion of liability.

Bleak Driving Future?
But what will we lose? Well Chip Foose will be out of a job for a start. All those tuners and specialist auto shops that spread out along urban freeways will all be gone, perhaps to be replaced by “lifestyle” accessory shops to bling up our banal, boring rides. No more sports cars or hot hatchbacks either; all that will be left for us will be the minivan of the midlife motoring crisis.
Instead, we will get on-the-fly charging points that will sprout along our roads like a pimply rash on a teenager’s face. Cars, like serried ranks of tuna fish cans, will shuttle our bored selves from A to B. The car as transport. I think I’d prefer a horse. To my mind, the proponents of this technology have a great deal to think about to convince the buying public that this really is the way forward.
I realize I am painting a gloomy picture. This may be because I personally do not want to relinquish control of my car. I love driving too much. Autonomous cars will likely allow driver input anyway; there will probably be a choice and the overarching benefit of road safety and fewer deaths will be achieved, leaving our personal freedom of choice intact. At least I hope that’s how it will be. Certainly we are seeing the beginning of the end of the golden age of cars. It remains to be seen what this new age will bring.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

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Volvo XC40 Targets Urban Dwellers, City Commuters

Volvo XC40 Targets Urban Dwellers, City Commuters

Volvo’s upcoming new SUV, the XC40, aims at staying in the premium segment while it heads downward, size-wise. SUVs, for all their functionality and popularity, have some hitches in their armor, especially when it comes to in-city usage. Size is obviously what I’m talking about here. Have you ever seen a Hummer in a crowded, downtown environment? Of course you have.
Don’t be that guy. Seriously. But that’s where the latest batch of smaller, yet still upscale, SUVs comes in. And this is where the new Volvo XC40 will fit this fall.
Urban Logic
Volvo, beloved Swedish automaker of all things boxy and very safe, says it right up front: “Volvo Cars’ new XC40 delivers a confidence-inspiring SUV designed for city living.” City living. This one is aimed right at you young urban hipster over-earners that are newly married with a baby on the way. And, since this is a Volvo and it is a Scandinavian company, it’s kind of hard to argue with their logic. Volvo wants the XC40 to make your daily, urban commute less stressful and more enjoyable.
To that end, there’s a whole suite of integrated stuff to go along with the vault-like design and build quality. Say hello to safety, connectivity, and infotainment technologies with a Swedish bent.
Volvo Cars’ User Experience Lab. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Solid Foundations
The new XC40 is the first car built on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA). It includes a range of groundbreaking technologies that Volvo first introduced in the 90 and 60 Series sedans. And all of that Compact Modular Architecture stuff is based on Volvo’s larger Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). See, it is scalable.
The overall look, feel, and daily livability of the XC40 flows from Volvo’s lifelong approach to safety and integrated user experience philosophy. Volvo calls it the “Circle of Life,” and no, I am not making that up and don’t blame me if you’ve got that Disney song stuck in your head now. Volvo calls this Circle of Life deal “a constant improvement of standards and technologies, based on consumer insights and real life data.” Okay, sounds good to me (apart from that Herrgårdsosty name they gave it).
Safety & Security
Since the starting point for each new Volvo is the forward-thinking safety – and it has been that way since the company’s inception – they are not shy about adopting newer strategies for driver assistance systems. In other words, the new XC40 also gets a healthy dose of the safety and infotainment goodies found in its larger stablemates.
The safety and driver assistance goodies are, as you would expect from Volvo, numerous and sensible. The new XC40’s gizmos incorporate Volvo’s semi-autonomous Pilot Assist system (take that Elon!), the latest generation of City Safety, and Runoff Road protection and mitigation; all to keep you from sweeping up wayward pedestrians and, uh, driving the thing off the road. There’s also the now-more-common Cross Traffic alert with auto braking, plus a 360° camera that helps you maneuver your XC40 into tight parking spaces.
Park and Pay application in the Volvo XC60. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Connectivity & Interactions
Like its larger XC60 and XC90 brethren, the XC40 features Volvo’s connected Sensus infotainment system. This Sensus stuff is focused around the large, portrait oriented touchscreen that should be familiar to many modern car shoppers. Volvo says Sensus is easy and intuitive to use becasue the interface allows drivers to access a host of functions and services.
“We built a confident, easy-to-use, and convenient everyday user experience based on real-life interaction and research, starting from our foundation of leading safety,” explained Ödgärd Andersson, Vice President, Vehicle Software & Electronics, Volvo Cars. “The XC40 is a car for a generation of consumers that expect full connectivity. All screens have been optimized for a safe, easy, and efficient interaction, to support active city driving,”
And, may I also point out that the “Son of Anders” has not one but two umlauts in her totally rockin’ first name and if Ödgärd Andersson is not in an after-work Swedish heavy metal band, I will be disappointed.
Safety and user experience via Volvo cars. Photo: Volvo Car Group.

Segment Expansion
Volvo is taking this urban SUV trend seriously.
“The XC40 is our first car in this rapidly growing segment and has a clear focus on navigating today’s hectic city environments,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Volvo Cars. “Building on Volvo’s heritage as the leader in safety, the new XC40 will offer the best possible safety standards combined with an easy-to-use interface and convenient connected services.”
Håkan Samuelsson is also a cool, rockin’ name.
Malin Ekholm (whose name is more pretty than rockin’) is Vice President of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre. She summed up the company’s whole approach thusly: “Modern city life presents complex challenges for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users. With the XC40, we aim to reduce the socalled cognitive load on the driver. While our safety and driver assistance systems actively identify and mitigate potential conflicts, you as a driver can relax more and therefore enjoy city driving.”
And you know, she’s not wrong about any of that. And it’s fair to say Volvo knows how to add all these new safety gizmos and infotainment bric-a-brac without it getting in the way of actually driving a car. The upcoming XC40 aims to keep it that way.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photos & Source: Volvo Car Group.

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General Motors Enters Final Phase of Technical Center Expansion

General Motors Enters Final Phase of Technical Center Expansion

The final phase of a 360,000-square-foot expansion of the GM Design studios is underway at GM’s Global Technical Center in Warren, Michigan. Groundbreaking is set for mid-2018 on the new facility which will surround the Design Dome Auditorium, viewing patio, and connect to the existing Design Center.
On the southwest corner of the campus, a new parking structure is also being completed.
Forward Looking
In May of 2015, construction and renovations began at GM’s Technical Center, part of a multiyear, billion dollar investment by General Motors. The efforts will help the automaker expand their operations to better meet the demands of future customers.
“We can only begin to predict how mobility will change in future generations,” explained Michael Simcoe, Vice President of Global Design, General Motors.
The renovations encompass the vehicle engineering center, engineering West and South, Pre-Production Operations, and the Alternative Energy Center, including a new Strucutral Development Laboratory.
“Investing in our creative and skilled team and providing them with inspiring, modern spaces, new technologies, and more ways to work together will foster innovation that leads to real solutions for customers,” Simcoe said.
Photo: General Motors.
Construction & Development
Walbridge and SmithGroup JJR are overseeing the design and construction. Simcoe has also played a pivotal role, having helped facilitate the expansion of other GM global design studios. GM Design was established in 1927 as The Art and Colour Section by Harley Earl; Simcoe is the seventh Design head in GM’s history.
The GM Technical Center opened in 1956 and was hailed for its engineering, design, and technology at the time. World-renowned architect Eero Saarinen and landscape architect Thomas Church envisioned the campus which was, in 1986, named by the American Institute of Architects as the most outstanding architectural achievement of its era. In 2000, GM’s Tech Center was listed on the National Register of Historic Places; in 2014, the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service designated it as a National Historic Landmark.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: General Motors.

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2019 Ford Edge: Now Powered By A.I. Technology

2019 Ford Edge: Now Powered By A.I. Technology The 2019 Ford Edge uses artificial intelligence to improve performance and traction.
The system is complex and works faster than the human brain, according to Ford.
The biggest news about the 2019 Ford Edge is, surprisingly, not related to the hardcore ST variant. Even though the Edge ST rightfully deserves a place in the news, the base price of $42,355 is an issue for some buyers. After ticking the option box for the chassis upgrades, bigger brakes, and larger alloys, the price balloons to around $50,000.
Data-Driven
But what really commands the most attention is Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with “AWD Disconnect.” This feature is now optional on all 2019 Ford Edge models, and standard on the ST. The new drivetrain actually utilizes A.I. technology to determine the optimal settings. The system collects information from a dizzying array of sensors located throughout the vehicle.
Depending on the incoming data, the system switches between front- and all-wheel drive.
Smart Algorithms
This all-wheel drive disconnect system is the first of its kind from the Ford factory. Ford says it’s faster than the human brain because it shifts from front- to all-wheel drive in a fraction of a second.
“The concept is pretty simple – it was the execution that was the challenge,” explained Scott Beiring, Ford Driveline Applications Supervisor. “Shifting between two- and all-wheel drive needs to be fast and seamless enough that the customer doesn’t know it is happening.”
The electronic brain is governed by A.I.-powered algorithms that detect wheel slip. It works in tandem with the traction control system and constantly monitors vehicle activity. The system automatically detects if front- or all-wheel drive is necessary in just 10 milliseconds. Furthermore, 100 percent of the available torque can be sent from front to rear, and back, depending on road conditions.
“There are similar systems out there, but none quite like this,” Beiring added. “The fact that we’re able to switch seamlessly and without any input from the driver, that’s the real magic.”
An algorithm that uses “fuzzy logic” processes incoming data to decide between all-wheel or front-wheel drive. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Unparalleled Efficiency
It is easy to imagine the reason why Ford’s all-wheel drive disconnect system is developed for the Edge SUV. However, it goes further than just improving grip, traction, and stability during challenging road conditions.
In truth, this revolutionary drivetrain was primarily conceived to improve fuel economy. When combined with the new eight-speed automatic (two overdrive gears), a 2019 Ford Edge, with intelligent all-wheel drive, achieves an EPA-estimated 22/29 city/highway rating with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-banger.
Front-wheel drive models with the same engine can muster an almost identical range of 21/28 mpg city/highway. The Ford Edge ST enjoys a 19/26 mpg city/highway rating, despite a larger 335 horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6.
You won’t need to apply for a second mortgage for the trick A.I. drivetrain either. The system runs $1,995; the base Edge SE starts at $29,995. This is not bad given the amount of standard features, including Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 and post-collision braking systems.
2019 Ford Edge Titanium Elite. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
This all-wheel drive disconnect system is the first of its kind from the Ford factory. It's faster than the human brain, shifting from front- to all-wheel drive in a fraction of a second.Click To TweetSleeker Aerodynamics
Thankfully, all 2019 Ford Edge models come with active grille shutters, under-body shields, and curtains around the outer surface of the wheels. These enable the new Edge to slice the wind like a sharp knife over a freshly grilled medium-rare steak.
Other fuel-saving measures include auto start-stop and exhaust gas re-circulation systems. The deceleration fuel shut-off feature cuts fuel to the motor when speed is reduced.
2019 Ford Edge ST. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Should You Get The Ford Edge ST?
Consider this: the Ford Edge ST has no real competition. It seems the concept of a fast, midsize SUV belongs in the realm of luxury marques with prohibitive price tags. Unless Mazda or Honda develops a tuned SKYACTIV CX-5 or a turbocharged CR-V SI, the closest things that resemble the Edge ST are the SRT versions of the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee. But both of those start at no less than $65,000.
With that in mind, the 2019 Ford Edge ST looks like a performance bargain. The vehicle is in showrooms now.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

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2019 VW Beetle: All Dressed Up For The Last Time

2019 VW Beetle: All Dressed Up For The Last Time The VW Beetle has stood the test of time but all good things must come to an end.
The 2019 VW Beetle receives a few tweaks before the entire model line heads for retirement.
Is this really the end? VW says yes . . . but also maybe not.
The original Volkswagen Beetle needs no introduction. It became a symbol of peace, love, and hope. Designed by no less than Ferdinand Porsche, the Beetle was literally bulletproof. It was cheap, reliable, and easy to fix. It had all the makings of a mass-produced car that could survive in every nook and cranny on the planet.
In other words, it created a nameplate that hinted at classic nostalgia.
The Beetle Is Dead! Long Live The Beetle!
The 2019 VW Beetle is the last of the breed. Production of this enduring model will end next year, but it’s not going away without a last hurrah!
“The loss of the Beetle after three generations, over nearly seven decades, will evoke a host of emotions from the Beetle’s many devoted fans,” said Hinrich J. Woebcken, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
The Final Edition Beetle is still available in the familiar coupe and convertible styles fans have grown to love. But to commemorate a proper send off, VW saw fit to equip the Beetle Final Edition with different options, unique paint colors, and a newfound attitude.
2019 VW Beetle. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Is this really the last time we’re seeing the @VW Beetle in all its nostalgic glory? Click To TweetThe Last Goodbye
There are two Final Edition models of the 2019 Beetle: SE and SEL. The SE gets 17-inch alloys with a 15-spoke wheel design, cloth seats with leatherette trim, and a 6.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control.
The SEL receives larger 18-inch alloys with a retro-classic disc design similar to the chrome-hubcap wheels of the classic Beetle. You also get Bi-Xenon headlights, front fog lights, LED running lights, LED taillights, a Fender premium audio system, and standard navigation.
Both models also feature body-color side-mirrors, heated washer nozzles, and a sunroof.
In order to ease the pain of saying goodbye, all Final Edition models have keyless access with push-button start, a leather steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, automatic climate control, and a gloss black center console. Also new is a three-color ambient lighting system to further brighten up the interior.
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Adequate Motivation & First-Class Safety
All models of the final-production, 2019 VW Beetle receive a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-banger, good for 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. The engine offers modest power to achieve a zero to 60 mph sprint in 7.5 seconds. It’s not as fast as a proper sporty compact, but it can surprisingly zip from point A to point B while still achieving 29 mpg in combined driving.
But if it all gets awry, the Beetle Final Edition also comes with driver-assistance technology. The SE has blind spot monitoring and rear traffic alert. The SEL adds front and rear park distance control.
Color My World
Besides the usual white, black pearl, and platinum gray paint jobs, the Final Edition Beetle adds two unique colors: Stonewashed Blue (which resembles denim jeans) and Safari Uni (which pays homage to the harvest moon beige paint seen in the second-gen New Beetle).
Convertible SEL models can also come with a brown soft top (except for the new Safari Uni paint scheme).
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Farewell, Dear Bug
The third-gen Beetle is a fun-to-drive car that offers decent power and practicality. If not for the high base price and unwarranted reputation for unreliability, it would have been a best-seller. With the underpinnings of the previous-generation Golf, it steers and handles with alacrity as well.
Which is why we’re discussing the 2019 VW Beetle with a heavy heart. Is this really the last time we’re seeing the Beetle in all its nostalgic glory? There’s still a slight glimmer of hope.
“As we move to being a full-line, family-focused automaker in the U.S. and ramp up our electrification strategy with the MEB platform, there are no immediate plans to replace the current Beetle,” Woebcken said. “But as we have seen with the I.D. BUZZ – which is the modern and practical interpretation of the legendary Bus – I would also say ‘never say never.’”
The 2019 VW Beetle Final Edition Coupe SE starts at $23,045 and the SEL at $25,995. If you prefer the wind tussling your ‘do, the SE convertible can be yours starting at $27,295 while the SEL starts at $29,995.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.
Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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2020 Mazda CX-9 Changes

What’s new from 2020 Mazda CX-9 we discuss in this article. SKYACTIV technologies included in this car to improve performance the engine of this car. Car competitors include the Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevy Traverse, the Toyota Highlander. changes to the design of this car we discuss in this article, and the redesign of what will be available at the 2020 Mazda CX-9.

2020 Mazda CX-9 Changes

2020 Mazda CX-9 : Interior and Exterior

The redesigned exterior with the 2020 Mazda CX-9 will seem extraordinarily desirable and modern, is anticipated for being an enormous entrance fender and could function LED fog lighting fixtures and air ingestion. The top grille is likewise newly made and more amazing. The front lights will feature new LED light bulbs also rear lighting fixtures are planning to be supplied with Light emitting diodes. This model is going to be built with three distinct packages of alloy wheels, that may be for being the measurements of 17 “, 18 ” and 20 ins, according to the box. New Mazda CX-9 is often vast and chic, is anticipated to become the seat of this model is very comfy due to the pure leather of that can be created. Also, the controls are going to be engrossed in leather material and could drive this model will be an actual fulfillment. This model will attribute quite a few present-day systems these sorts of as 8-inch touchscreen which has a contemporary plan, grip handle, menu, modern air conditioner, lane leaving alert, cruise trip manage. 2020 Mazda CX-9 parking products, sightless- place tracking, present-day Bose mp3 person with 12 speaker techniques using a variety of relationships.

Engine Performance

Changes the engine on this car what is different from the model before him, 2020 Mazda CX-9 will be the just lately introduced 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. This reliable engine cranks out 227 horsepower and 315 pound-feet of torque. The sole serious out there transmission includes a 6-speed automated. Customers can select from a normal front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. 2020 Mazda CX-9 towing capability is rated at 3,500 pounds.

Release Date and Price

For the official news about the release date and price for 2020 also Mazda CX-9 does not have certainty. For the price of any identical. We will soon update the information on the price and also the release date of this car.

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