Automotive

The 2019 TVR Griffith marks the return of the famed British sports car maker

The 2019 TVR Griffith marks the return of the famed British sports car maker TVR finally reveals its latest sports car after changing ownership in 2013, marking the official return of the automaker.

What’s going on?
After years of anticipation and much teasing in between, TVR finally revealed its all-new 2019 Griffith sports coupe.
Back in 2013, British entrepreneur, Les Edgar, purchased the company from a Russian businessman, who sadly let TVR wither away almost into nothing. But Edgar wasn’t going to let that happen, calling for the return of TVR to make sports cars once again. Thanks to his visions and his vows to reintroduce the “supercars for the common man,” we’re given the all-new Griffith.
Cool! TVR is back! But it looks a little mundane for a TVR

Yes they are, with a completely new car. And I’d 100% agree with you if that’s what ran through your head initially. The last TVRs ever made weren’t anywhere what’d you’d call traditional in almost every sense. Both from an aesthetic design and functional perspective, TVRs were the epitome of modern automotive quirkiness. But that’s also what made them so unique, special, and lovable.
So although the 2019 TVR Griffith seems a bit watered down, we’re still hugely excited for the company’s return. Its designed was penned by the one and only Gordon Murray, featuring his innovative iStream architecture. So not only does the funky sheetmetal look good, it’s made of lightweight materials and bolstered by carbon composite structuring.
What powers it?
Through the various teasers over the past four years, TVR confirmed power comes from a Ford-sourced Coyote V8, the same you find in a Mustang GT. It’s then sent to renowned tuning firm, Cosworth, who fiddles with the Ford V8 and fits it with a dry-sump lubrication system.
TVR did not confirm any official power numbers yet, but they claim the Griffith and its 5.0L Cosworth-tuned Ford V8 achieves a power-to-weight ratio of 400bhp per tonne. TVR says the Griffith weighs less than 1250 kg, or 2,755 lbs, or 1.25 tonnes. Multiplying that 400bhp per the Griffith’s 1.25 tonnes weight, and the math works out to be around 500 break horsepower from the V8.
It’s channeled only to the rear wheels with a six-speed Tremec manual, rated to handle up to 700 pound-feet of torque at engines speeds of up to 7500 RPM.
The resulting performance numbers are a speed of over 200 miles per hour and a 0-60 time of less than four seconds, according to the manufacturer’s claims.
And the handling…
TVR promises the Griffith delivers a balanced handling experience with 50/50 weight distribution and a light body.
Helping to slow things down are six-piston brake calipers up front and four-piston at the rear. The power steering system is electrically assisted and suspending the car at both ends are standard double-wishbone arrangements.
When will it go on sale?
TVR claims production is scheduled to commence in late 2018. A Launch Edition marks the first 500 cars produced, featuring custom color choices, special Launch Edition color options, and a special wheel package only available on the Launch Edition.
Pricing for the launch edition begins at £90,000 or around $119,000 USD.
– By: Chris Chin
2019 TVR Griffith Specifications
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Body: Two-seat coupe, with carbon chassis, and composite body with a number of aluminium panels.
Chassis: iStream® design steel and aluminium frame with bonded carbon composite sections
Suspension
Front: Double wishbones with adjustable gas filled coil-over dampers with concentric springs
Rear: Double wishbones with adjustable gas filled coil-over dampers with concentric springs

Steering: Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS)
Brakes
Front: Six-piston aluminium brake calipers and 2-piece ventilated floating brake discs with 370mm diameter and 32mm thickness
Rear: Four-piston aluminium brake calipers and 2-piece ventilated floating brake discs with 350mm diameter and 32mm thickness

Wheels and tyres
Front: 235/35 ZR19, on 8.5in wide rims
Rear: 275/30 ZR20, on 9.5in wide rims

Weight
Unladen weight:
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The all-new 2019 Nissan LEAF falls into place with a new design

The all-new 2019 Nissan LEAF falls into place with a new design Nissan just revealed the second-generation of its iconic LEAF electric vehicle so you can hug trees as you drive by.
What’s going on?
Following many teasers and spy shots, Nissan finally revealed the next-generation LEAF for the world to see in Las Vegas.
Carrying the EV torch for the Japanese automaker for a new model, the 2018 LEAF promises many improvements over the previous model. This includes better battery performance and more tech.
Looking somewhat like a sleeker Chevrolet Bolt, the second-gen LEAF follows Nissan’s new design philosophy. Within that new design, which takes on the appearance of a more traditional hatchback, Nissan boasts roominess and lots of new advanced telematics systems.
“When we launched LEAF in 2010, it instantly became the most affordable, mass market EV in the world. We are not walking away from that proposition,” said Jose Muñoz, Nissan North America, Inc. Chief Performance Officer. “The value equation for the new LEAF is even stronger than ever before – beginning with a starting MSRP1 under $30,000. That’s a lower price than the LEAF in market today and it includes more power, range and technology, all wrapped in a beautiful new exterior and interior design.”

What’s new?
The 2018 Nissan LEAF is said to offer a 150-mile total driving range. That’s 43 miles more than the outgoing mode’s 107-mile range. This is accomplished thanks to a new innovative “e-Pedal.” At the flick of a switch, drivers can turn the accelerator into a unified stop and go pedal. It’s the first of its kind, allowing the driver to decelerate and even bring the car to a complete halt, even on hills. It’s believed to improve performance efficiency while in traffic as well.
Advancing in tech is Nissan’s new ProPILOT Assist, which includes a range of semi-autonomous functions, along with lots of passive and active safety gear.
And all this tech can be had for less than $30,000 in all 50 states.
Full details aren’t yet available. Such information is expected to surface in the near future.
The 2018 Nissan LEAF is scheduled to launch in early 2018.
– By: Chris Chin
2018 Nissan LEAF Photo Gallery

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Three Key Consumer Considerations With New Auto Technology

Three Key Consumer Considerations With New Auto Technology

Our taste for new innovations have compressed the adoption cycle and introduced fresh technology into a variety of industries, including automotive. By 2020, 10 million self-driving cars will be on the road. Think about it – that’s just three years away. So soon, in fact, that it has snuck up on many of us.
So, what else can we expect? Here are three things to keep an eye on.
More Integrated Tech
From in-car emergency services to fully-autonomous vehicles, there’s no mistaking the fact that we’re seeing technology’s increasing influence in the design, performance, and functionality of today’s vehicles. These heavily-integrated systems work together to enhance the overall driving experience. Normally, they work seamlessly, but if one system fails, another is likely affected. These kinds of issues can be overwhelming, but an awareness of integrated technology systems can keep fear to a minimum when the dashboard warning lights start flashing.
Difficulty & Repair Costs
Because of the complicated, interdependent nature of this new technology, auto technicians are now expected to be electricians and IT troubleshooters as well as mechanics. Those routine repairs previously handled at home by a “do-it-yourselfer” are now turning into fixes that can only be performed in the shop with additional diagnostic assistance. This level of complexity can increase parts pricing, service time, and total, out-of-pocket repair cost. Some of these potential new expenses can be mitigated with the help of a service contract provider. Be advised, though: not all service contract providers cover issues associated with new, advanced technology. Read the fine print to ensure your bases are covered.

Personal Data Sharing
More integrated technology also means a bigger push to link more data to your vehicle. Personal information – such as your home address, age, and driving patterns – can all be used to enhance the in-vehicle experience, as well as the overall driving experience. Automakers are using this data to improve vehicle features, make cars last longer, create custom apps, and so much more. And with the Internet of Things causing the convergence of nearly everything a consumer touches, the auto industry won’t be left behind.
It’s sometimes said “you are what you drive.” With all the technology, functionality, integration, and personalization available in vehicles today, this adage is not only truer than ever, but it also takes on a whole new meaning. New technology is changing the way we drive, and impacting the way we experience vehicle ownership more than ever. By keeping these three things in mind, consumers can prepare for the shifts they’re seeing in the auto industry, and be ready to embrace change as quickly as it comes.
Scott McLaren is the Chief Marketing Officer of Fortegra with a background in business and communications. 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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2019 Cadillac XT4: Baby Escalade? Or Something Else Entirely?

2019 Cadillac XT4: Baby Escalade? Or Something Else Entirely? The 2019 Cadillac XT4 has strong competition but will enter the market with promising technology.
There are only two SUVs in Cadillac’s lineup. The full-size Escalade is still the default choice for rap artists, movie stars, or large families. The midsize XT5 is just right for the daily commute. But if you were hankering for a more affordable compact SUV with Cadillac-levels of luxury, the XT4 is the answer. Depending on your perception, the 2019 Cadillac XT4 is either a scaled-down version of the XT5 or a baby Escalade.
“The new Cadillac XT4 brings a new vitality to Cadillac in one of the industry’s fastest-growing segments,” said Steve Carlisle, Cadillac President. “It pairs the agility of our award-winning sports sedans with a youthful SUV character.”
The 2019 XT4 is Cadillac’s first-ever foray in the compact SUV segment, going head-to-head with premium contenders such as the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Lexus NX, and Audi Q5. But unlike the aforementioned competitors, the 2019 Cadillac XT4 starts at a lower base price.
2019 Cadillac XT4. Photo: Cadillac.
Motivated By Technology
Everything about the new XT4 centers around technology. For example, it has a 2.0-liter turbocharged motor that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The twin-scroll turbocharger significantly enhances low-end torque.
“The advantage of turbocharging is power when you need it and efficiency when you don’t,” said Kris Keary, 2.0L Turbo Assistant Chief Engineer. “In the XT4, it translates as confident performance in all scenarios.”
Despite the aggressive engine tuning, the XT4 delivers 24/31 city/highway mpg. This partly due to the smart design of the motor. Cadillac designed a unique and innovative double-overhead tri-power valvetrain with three operating modes: high valve lift, low valve lift, and active fuel management.
In high valve lift, the engine works with the turbocharger to deliver maximum thrills. The low valve mode is the default setting in normal driving. It provides a nice balance between power and fuel economy. Active fuel management can disable two of the four cylinders when idling in traffic for greater efficiency.
“The unique valvetrain design complements the turbocharging system to make the most of the engine’s available power at all speeds,” Keary continued. “It’s a seamless integration of technologies that drivers experience as satisfying, confident performance throughout the entire engine operating range.”
The high-tech engine is bolted to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The motor also benefits from active thermal management, an electric water pump, and stop/start technology.
Photo: Cadillac.
Brand New Architecture
The 2019 Cadillac XT4’s chassis is constructed from press-hardened high-strength steel. The MacPherson strut front and five-link rear independent suspension are tuned for better handling and comfort. The XT4 Sport trim can be equipped with Cadillac’s Active Sport Suspension system. It offers continuous damping control by seamlessly adjusting the damping forces every two milliseconds.
The refined and solid feel of the new XT4 is further enhanced by a vibration absorber tucked between the airbag and steering wheel. It can filter out unnecessary vibrations without negatively affecting the steering, according to Cadillac.
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 has an optional twin-clutch all-wheel drive system, controlled via the Driver Mode Select System. The system balances the amount of torque at each wheel for greater traction and control when the weather gets dicey. By contrast, it automatically decouples the rear axle in normal driving conditions.
Roomy & Spacious Interior
If you need a simple reason why you should choose the Cadillac XT4, it would be the interior, particularly in the rear quarters. The new XT4 is strictly a five-seater, but it serves up best-in-class rear-seat legroom and headroom, according to Cadillac. The 22.5 cubic-feet of cargo space makes it practical. Fold the rear seats down and you get 48.9 cubic-feet of space, more than what the Lexus NX has to offer.

More Features For The Money
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 in base trim starts at $35,790. This includes LED headlamps and taillights, power front seats, 18-inch wheels, remote start, a seven-speaker audio system, and dual zone climate control. You also get an eight-inch high-resolution center display with voice and rotary controls. The interior comes with with four USB ports and wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
On the safety front, the XT4 comes with eight airbags, 10-years of Cadillac Connected Access, rearview camera, brake assist, traction and stability control, and tire pressure monitoring.
Higher trim models get larger alloys, leather upholstery, lane change alert with lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, and an HD surround camera.
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 will arrive at dealerships this fall.
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: Cadillac.

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2019 Acura ILX: A Budget-Friendly & Sporty Luxury Sedan

2019 Acura ILX: A Budget-Friendly & Sporty Luxury Sedan The 2019 Acura ILX stands out when compared to prior model years.
Although the engine could use a bit more power, the tech and safety features are solid.
Out with the old, in with the new. The refreshed 2019 Acura ILX is more than a posh Civic. It is a budget-oriented choice in the niche of small, premium sedans. I’ve noticed two types of buyers during my many years writing about cars: those that truly know their stuff and those who simply want a nice car.
If you belong to the latter, take a second look at the 2019 Acura ILX. It may not steal the spotlight from the Mercedes-Benz CLA or Audi A3, but it deserves a rightful place at the podium.
The Acura will be more reliable and less expensive to maintain. For example, the new ILX earned a Power Circle Rating of 5 out of 5 and a quality award in the Small Premium Car segment in J.D. Power and Associates 2018 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). It also captured the top spot in Kelly Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost to Own Luxury Brand Awards.
Best of all, the 2019 Acura ILX comes standard with active safety technology courtesy of AcuraWatch.
Enhanced Styling
Those who think the previous ILX was a bit dull in the styling department will have a change of heart. The most prominent enhancements are found in front. The 2019 Acura ILX is all-new from nose to A-pillars, anchored by the brand’s signature Diamond Pentagon Grille. Combined with the new jewel-eye LED headlamps and sculpted hood, there’s no doubt the Acura ILX is ready for some serious action.
The rear still bears a striking resemblance to the deck of the Mercedes CLS. There are new LED taillights to match the hi-tech look in the front. There’s a new rear diffuser and chrome exhaust tip. Also new are the sharp-looking 17-inch five-spoke wheels. The 2019 ILX A-Spec gets bigger 18-inch rollers and lower-profile rubber.
2019 Acura ILX A-Spec. Photo: Acura.
Sporty & Luxurious Interior
The interior of the 2019 Acura ILX is equally impressive. You get restyled and reshaped sport seating in the front and rear. The seats can be specified with high-contrast stitching and piping for an enhanced and premium look. All ILX models receive a power-adjustable lumbar support for the front seats.
One of the major gripes was the slow and unresponsive touchscreen interface. Thankfully, Acura heard all the complaints and came up with the dual-screen On-Demand Multi-Use Display system. The new software not only improves system response time by 30 percent, but the seven-inch touchscreen display now offers intuitive menus for a quick and fuss-free operation.
Apple CarPlay and Android auto are standard as well.
2019 Acura ILX interior layout. Photo: Acura.
Refined Performance
All 2019 Acura ILX models still get the 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC four-banger that churns out 201 horsepower and 170 lb-ft. of torque. The motor is connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic driving the front wheels. While the engine is smooth at low revs and growls noticeably at higher rpm, it wouldn’t hurt if Acura massaged the engine to produce a bit more power.
It can still scoot to 60 mph in less than seven seconds, which is average for this class.
A stronger engine is (and would have been) the perfect addition to the new Acura ILX A-Spec. Unfortunately, the A-spec only receives exterior and interior updates. This includes dark chrome trim for the front grille and lower fascia, smoked LED headlights and taillights, a gloss black decklid spoiler, and new LED fog lights. The new ILX A-Spec also receives graphite-silver and chrome dash accents, aluminum pedals, and new red or ebony leather seats.
The 2019 Acura ILX will arrive at dealers next month.
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.
2019 Acura ILX Gallery

Photos & Source: Acura.

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2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 Review

2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 Review If you need something more rugged than a typical three-row crossover, the 2018 Ford Expedition is a must-look for families. Needing to haul the kids, their friends, and maybe a few “toys” for that weekend trip away from civilization? It seats up to eight passengers, has a powerful, newly-redesigned turbocharged V6, and can tow more than 9,000 lbs.
And in its Platinum trim, you will travel in style to business meetings, golf outings, and those evenings out at the dinner theater. This week, we’ve been getting a taste of the top-of-the-line, 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum.
What’s New For 2018
The Ford Expedition gets new upgrades, including increased horsepower and torque, a new 10-speed automatic transmission, a redesigned instrument panel, and a handful of new, stand-alone options and packages. The extended-length Expedition is now called the “Max.”
Features & Options
The 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 ($73,030) comes with 20-inch wheels, front parking sensors, roof rack rails, retractable running boards, heated second-row seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a premium Bang & Olufsen 12-speaker audio system with HD radio.
It also comes with second-row leather captain’s chairs (reduces seating capacity to seven) and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual headrest-mounted displays. This tester also came with the heavy-duty tow package, the self-parking system, and auto LED headlights and fog lights. Ford did not list exact pricing on the options as this was a pre-production model.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Interior Highlights
Behind the wheel, the driver has a commanding view of the road because of the ride height and seating position. We were able to find the prefect driving position with the power/tilt telescoping steering wheel and adjustable pedals with memory. The seats are plush and there’s plenty of head, shoulder, and hip room for taller passengers.
Families will find acres of room inside for spreading out on longer trips. Kids won’t be asking, “are we there yet?” with the rear-seat entertainment system. The optional second row captain’s chairs are comfy, and there’s lots of legroom with the chair’s ability to slide forward and back. Even the third row, which is usually only good for kids in most SUVs, is decent enough to seat two adults for long distances.
Expedition offers exceptional space for families needing to carry extra cargo. There’s 104.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 63.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 20.9 cubic feet behind the third row.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Platinum Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. The engine’s 400 horsepower and massive 480 lb-ft. of torque marks an increase in power. It comes mated to a new 10-speed automatic with a tow/haul mode sending power to all four wheels. An FX4 off-road trim is available which includes additional skid plates and Ford’s Terrain Management System.
Fuel economy estimates for our Platinum tester came in at 17/22 city/highway and 19 combined mpg using regular unleaded fuel.
Driving Dynamics
The Expedition gets a unique drive shifter knob that saves space. You just dial up “drive” and you’re ready to go. Once underway, the first thing we noticed was the Expedition’s more powerful turbocharged EcoBoost engine with its massive 480 lb-ft. of torque for the Platinum trim. One of the downsides: you need to run premium unleaded fuel to get those torque ratings.
This big SUV has impressive acceleration and we had a hard time keeping our foot out of the gas. It’s one of the quickest SUVs in the class. We took the Expedition up I-70 at altitude west of Denver. Let’s just say, this family hauler feels like a much smaller vehicle. Passing slower traffic was not an issue; we had to watch our speed because it rises up easily.
We did notice the considerable body lean in the tight mountain corners, so this big three-row is likely best when it’s on the open highway. The new Expedition does come with an auto start/stop feature. That takes getting used to in city traffic.
The Ford Expedition’s strong point is how it’s a truck-based SUV, meaning it can take some abuse. You can run the Expedition on muddy or dirt roads, or through snow and not have to worry about getting stuck. It can tow more than 9,000 lbs. when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package too.
Conclusion
If you need a tough-as-nails, seven- or eight-passenger SUV, with towing capacity for a large trailer, and a lot of room for the kids and pets, the 2018 Ford Expedition is a great choice. For extra luxury, move up to the Platinum model. Overall, the 2018 Ford Expedition is ideal for families with active lifestyles who need more than a typical kid and grocery hauler.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Ford Expedition Gallery

2018 Ford Expedition Official Site.
Photos: Ford Motor Company.

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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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