Class-Action Lawsuit Targets Ford, Bosch For Diesel Emissions Violations

Class-Action Lawsuit Targets Ford, Bosch For Diesel Emissions Violations Uh-oh, this could get really messy. Ford Motor Company and Bosch are being sued after being accused of conspiring to make diesel engines that cheat in order to comply with US market regulations. The class-action lawsuit is being brought on behalf of F-250 and F-350 owners, alleging both companies worked together to conceal the particulate and nitrogen oxide emissions of F-Series Super Duty diesels built between 2011 and 2017, in violation of the Clean Air Act.
The suit further alleges that engine software provided by Bosch allowed Ford to adjust engine parameters to reach optimum emissions during EPA testing. Once on the road in real life, the engines emittied over 50 times the legal limit of greenhouse gases and particulate matter. This could be a very big problem for both companies.
Similar Scenearios
The lawsuit, filed January 10th in the U.S. District for the Eastern District of Michigan, claims Ford’s performance, power, and towing capabilities for the Super Duty are only obtained by switching off or turning down emissions controls when the software senses the vehicle is not in an emissions-testing environment. By and large, this is pretty much the same thing that Volkswagen was caught doing. VW ended up on the wrong end of $30 billion worth of fines, according to the latest report from Reuters.
It is alleged that what Ford and Bosch did was also on that scale. On top of everything else, this news hits the streets just before the launch of a diesel-powered F-150 and with the North American International Auto Show in Detroit right around the corner.
Emission Controls
Curiously, this is not all a software-based cheat. For a variety of various engineering reasons (i.e. wanting to get more power and torque for its new range of diesel engines) Ford deviated from the typical exhaust layout. Normally, the exhaust for a modern diesel goes from the cylinders to a particulate filter, then to the catalyst and then, as a final stage, to a urea injection system to treat the exhaust before being vented out the tailpipe. In an effort to get more power, Ford fiddles with the order. The dirty exhaust gas went through the catalyst first, then through the particulate filter and then it got the urea injection treatment.
All that is well and good, except that after going through the catalyst, the plaintiffs and their lawyers say Ford outright bypassed the particulate filter and dumped the undercooked particulate gunk straight out the tailpipe, and into the air we breath.
“Ford also deceived consumers in calling its diesel Super Duty trucks “fuel efficient,” and that without manipulating its software to turn off emissions controls, Ford could not have achieved the fuel economy it promises,” the lawsuit reads.
2017 Ford Super Duty. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Multiple Counts
The lawsuit hits Ford and Bosch with 58 counts of violating state consumer laws, false advertising laws, deceptive trade laws, as well as violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). The lawsuit further states that Ford did not act alone and colluded with Bosch to evade emissions requirements for the sake of profit. The suit ultimately says it was an “organized scheme.”
It’s worth noting the law firm bringing this to court, Hagens Berman, is the same firm responsible for emissions lawsuits against Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Mercedes-Benz, General Motors, and Volkswagen. Hagens Berman went so far as to conduct their own independent testing of the suspected 2011 through 2017 Ford Super Duty trucks. That’s where they found the emissions of harmful pollutants including the NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions up to 50 times the legal standard. They also say that even in average stop-and-go conditions, emissions are routinely as high as five times the standard.
“Our firm is the only law firm that has developed a system of independent research, including a team of dedicated scientists road-testing vehicles to uncover the next instance of emissions fraud that has blindsided consumers,” said Steve Berman, Managing Partner, Hagens Berman. “Ford has joined the ranks of Volkswagen, Fiat Chrysler, Mercedes, and GM in its scheme to rake in profits for diesels that pollute at levels too high to even legally sell in the U.S., all while charging a $8,400 premium over comparable gas Super Duty models,”
“Bosch takes the allegations of manipulation of the diesel software very seriously. It is a well-known fact that these allegations remain the subject of investigations and civil litigation involving Bosch,” Alissa Cleland, Spokesperson for North America, Robert Bosch GmbH, tells Automoblog via e-mail. “Bosch is cooperating with the continuing investigations in various jurisdictions, and is defending its interests in the litigation.”
Cleland added: “as a matter of policy, and due to the sensitive legal nature of these matters, Bosch will not comment further concerning matters under investigation and in litigation.”
We reached out to Ford Motor Company. Our request was returned by Michael Levine, the automaker’s Product Communications Manager for North America.
“All Ford vehicles, including those with diesel engines, comply with all U.S. EPA and CARB emissions regulations,” he said. “Ford vehicles do not have defeat devices. We will defend ourselves against these baseless claims.”
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. 



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Mercedes-Benz GLS Grand Editions Headed To Detroit

Mercedes-Benz GLS Grand Editions Headed To Detroit If you’re a movie company executive or some sort of prince sitting on a literal ocean of oil, or an up-and-coming rapper, the Mercedes-Benz GLS Grand Edition is for you. I guess it’s also for you if you’re the sort of person that desires to live in a tract McMansion, and are still jealous over your neighbor’s gold scores. But what gives? What makes the Mercedes-Benz GLS Grand Edition so Grand in the first place?
Well there’s some stuff here and there that does distinguish it from its lesser brethren, but there are also a couple of glaring mistakes.
Two Strikes
First mistake: Grand. Isn’t that a Pontiac branding thing? Don’t they make Grand Ams and all that? Boy, somebody from Stuttgart better check in with the lawyers at PMD or using this “Grand” terminology . . . what’s that? Oh, right, right. Pontiac is out of business. Maybe that’s not a good sign. Maybe using self-aggrandizing terms like “Grand” isn’t a good move, selling too much sizzle and not enough steak, as it were.
Second mistake: Brown. Now, brown’s a great color and all that, and it does work well on interiors (brown leather and such) but brown as a paint color? Big mistake. And that’s the color I see on all the press photos from Mercedes-Benz for the GLS450. Yes, it will (better) come in other colors, which is great, because I distrust someone who thinks brown is a good color for a car. Brown cars never look clean. Not even Jay Leno can help you there.
Mercedes-Benz GLS450 4MATIC Grand Edition. Photo: MBUSA.
Safety & Performance
So what makes the Mercedes-Benz GLS Grand Edition so grand? First off, it’s all about the design direction. The Mercedes-Benz GLS aims to merge luxury with notable levels of comfort, along with nimble chassis dynamics (or as nimble as a huge box of an SUV can get), along with fully integrated safety systems. I have no doubt about their commitment to and execution of safety. Mercs are great in that respect. Built like bank vaults. Always have been, always will be.
The Grand Edition will be available for both engine-based models of the GLS, the GLS450 4MATIC and GLS550 4MATIC SUVs. That translates into a 4.5-liter V6 and a bigger block 5.5-liter V8. The GLS450 4MATIC puts out 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque; the GLS550 4MATIC is rated at 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque.
Mercedes-Benz GLS550 4MATIC Grand Edition. Photo: MBUSA.
Lap of Luxury
The features that make the Grand Edition so exclusive focus on interior and exterior design elements. The very lavish interiors feature Porcelain and Espresso Brown and designo Nappa leather seats. The chairs also get an exclusive diamond quilting and special Budapest-design piping. And no, I have know idea what on Earth Budapest-design piping is or counts as, but Hungarians are interesting folks, so maybe the piping will be interesting too?
The interior uses open pore brown ash wood trim with light stripes and Nappa leather on the dashboard. The Grand Editions also come with standard ambient lighting and Espresso Brown velour floor mats. Mercedes-Benz goes perilously close to the edge of making the interior of the GLS Grand Edition look like a waterbed store from 1977, but thankfully they don’t tumble over.
On the outside, the GLS450 4MATIC comes with 20-inch, 10-spoke two-tone wheels and an advanced LED Intelligent Light System, while the big-block GLS550 4MATIC comes with 21-inch wheels and Active LED headlamps. Both are finished with special “Grand Edition” badging.





Not So Special Edition
Special “Grand Edition” badging . . . sigh, that’s how it all starts. And this is just a word of caution to Mercedes-Benz, because honestly, they don’t strike me as being a stupid car company, but stuff like special “Grand Edition” badging is what American car companies tried to pull during the height of the Malaise Era to make otherwise pointless cars seem special. Wanna make that Chevy into a Caddy, put in leather seats and slap on a crest with some ducks on it. Sales of the Mustang II less than what you’d like? No worries, just give it a hideous trim package and call it the Cobra II! I know this goes without saying, but do not do that Mercedes-Benz. You’re better than that, and we, the customer are better than that and we all know it.
Photo: MBUSA.
In Person
If, for some reason, you want to let the world know just how special you are, then perhaps, just perhaps, the Mercedes-Benz GLS Grand Edition is the ride for you. The Detroit show is right around the corner (that would be the North American International Auto Show), so expect to see the Grand Edition’s official reveal then. It will be available and in dealers by mid-year.
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. 
Photos & Source: MBUSA.



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Honda Insight Prototype To Debut In Detroit

Honda Insight Prototype To Debut In Detroit
Hey, remember the Honda Insight? It was that oddly shaped little two-seater that was the first production hybrid in America (sorry Toyota) that silently slipped away only to be replaced by a rather Prius-esque shaped thing. Well, it’s back, and this time around, 99 percent of the oddities and problems are ironed out and Honda is starting to make a pretty big deal about it.
The Honda Insight Prototype will take to the stage for the first time at this year’s North American International Auto Show, in beautiful (but cold) Detroit.
Prototypes & Precursors
Yes, Honda calls it a prototype, but they seem serious about bringing it to dealers by 2019. They call the Honda Insight Prototype a “precursor to the all-new 2019 Honda Insight.” So be it. Honda says the 2019 Insight will be an upscale and stylish five-passenger sedan, situated above the Civic in Honda’s car lineup. The future Insight will use Honda’s latest generation of their two-motor hybrid system.
The 2019 Insight will take an entirely new approach with styling versus the second-gen Insight from 2009. The ’09 was a 5-door, 5-passenger design with increased space and utility, and was one of the market’s more affordable hybrids. What’s also true is that Jeremy Clarkson hated the things, and not because it’s a green hybrid (Clarkson’s about as green as a Harkonnen). No, he disliked the Insights because the build quality was shabby. When was the last time you heard that about a Honda?
Funny thing is, I heard the same thing from other people. A car-friend of mine rented one on a business trip. He’s a Mercedes/German car guy and a person of very high standards, and he was floored by how cheap everything was. He said it was especially galling, given that it was a Honda.
Honda Insight Prototype. Photo: Honda North America.
Green Desires
Fast-forward to the North American International Auto Show and the 2019 Insight which will be unveiled there. The 2019 Insight is said to take an entirely new approach to styling, packaging, premium features, and overall performance that many mainstream car buyers require these days. Honda says it will be a “hybrid vehicle without any inherent compromise.”
“You won’t have to be an electrification advocate to appreciate the new Insight – it’s a great car in its own right, independent of what’s happening under the hood,” said Henio Arcangeli, Jr., Senior VP of Automobile Sales and GM of the Honda Division in America. “The all-new Insight embodies Honda’s approach to creating electrified vehicles without the typical tradeoffs.”
Arcangeli went on to say that “at the 2017 North American International Auto Show we announced our Honda Electrification Initiative with the intention to make two-thirds of Honda’s global vehicle sales electrified vehicles by 2030. With the Insight launching later in 2018 as the fifth electrified vehicle brought to market over the past year, we’re demonstrating our commitment to that goal.” Two-thirds? Impressive. Honda plainly sees where the economic, regulatory, and ecological winds are blowing and show no signs of being caught flat-footed.





Manufacturing & Availability
The Insight will be manufactured at Honda’s Greensburg, Indiana plant, alongside the Civic and CR-V. It will join the Clarity series (Clarity Fuel Cell, Clarity Electric, and Clarity Plug-in Hybrid), and the 2018 Accord Hybrid as part of Honda’s green fleet. The Insight will be arriving at dealerships nationwide early next year.
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. 
Photos & Source: Honda North America.



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2020 Chevrolet Equinox Redesign, Release Date, Price

2020 Chevrolet Equinox Redesign, Release Date, Price

Many cars SUV that will be present in the year 2020. One of its 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet-made SUVs may be entered into your plan. Many of the changes that will be made available for this car starting from the redesign of interior and exterior. Rumors circulating hybrid models will be available later in the model year 2020, this car will get an awful lot of competition ranging from Mazda CX-9, Honda C-RV, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester.

Interior and Exterior

How about the interior, you will find a spacious and relaxed cabin that will undergo some small modifications and updates as well. This car will probably be capable to accommodate as much as 5 adult passengers because of its two rows of seats, but there may very well be some space issues in regards to cargo spot. Also, it’s been mentioned which you could expect some high-quality leather about the seats in Premium trim degree only. The brand new Equinox ought to supply a 7.2 or an 8.2-inch infotainment touch-screen, depending on the trim level you decide on. It’ll provide some of the hottest high-tech features and connectivity options such as navigation procedure, a premium Bose audio process, satellite radio, Apple Motor vehicle Perform, Android Automobile, Bluetooth. In relation to security methods and driver aid functions, this well-known crossover should really come outfitted using a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, automated emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and even more.

Talking about the exterior, the exterior style language with the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox is rather fresh and revolutionary because the supporters had the chance to view some key redesign in 2018 and minor refreshments for that 2019 model. Thus, they shouldn’t be expecting any key improvements or updates regarding search with regards to Chevrolet Equinox. Instead, the upcoming Equinox is still likely to appear like a 4-door midsize crossover which will be riding over the identical D2 platform shared with its cousins Chevrolet Cruze and Chevrolet Volt. Not surprisingly, the brand new Equinox will be much more eye-catching and modern-day than its predecessor, even giving some luxurious capabilities on its top trim level Premium. In addition to Premium, the supporters could have the opportunity to select amongst 3 other ranges – the base L, LS and LT.

Engine Performance

Until finally a fresh generation or new model arrives, this Car will keep its powertrains. Significantly belittled 4-cylinder unit will probably be transported above. It’s 2.5-liter engine having a rating close to 185 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. Other, that was greater acknowledged would be the 3.6 liters and V6 engine unit that creates 300 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. Both drivetrains are mated getting a 6-speed automatic transmission, and the new generation Chevrolet Equinox will probably get delivers for the two with front- or all-wheel drive.

Release Date and Price

Until this time Chevrolet has not issued information about the release date and price of the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, For those of you who feel curious will this information we recommend to be patient. But we strongly believe the latest generation of Chevrolet Equinox will be present at the beginning of the year 2020. For that price, we also do not have the correct information.

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Lamborghini SC18: Squadra Corse Unveils Their Unicorn

Lamborghini SC18: Squadra Corse Unveils Their Unicorn The Lamborghini SC18 is track-ready but also street legal.  
Customers work with Lamborghini Squadra Corse to design their SC18.
The V12 engine creates nearly 800 horsepower and has a dozen air intakes.
Say ciao! to the SC18, the latest and greatest to roll out of the Lamborghini Squadra Corse shops. Think of it as the road-going version of a dedicated track car, and you’d be half right. Sure, you can drive it on the street, but the SC18 is very, very track-oriented.
A Bone To Pick
Lamborghini Squadra Corse is the Motorsport division of the Sant’ Agata Bolognese firm best known for making cars that go on posters for the bedroom walls of kids (boys, mainly) not old enough to drive.
Yes, Lambo does have the Squadra Corse, but the company doesn’t really race all that much.
This is one of the (major) bones I have to pick with them, but why quibble about that now? Sure, they have a one make series for the well-healed gentlemen racers out there, but that doesn’t really count if that’s the only kind of racing you do.
Testing The Waters
The SC18, designed in-house by Centro Stile Lamborghini, is a one-off road car (the first in the company’s history) that will most likely be a portent of others to come. Yes, it’s “road approved” but Lambo cautions saying it’s “primarily for use on the track.” Which is a polite way of saying it’s harsh, brutish, lacking in comfort and convenience features and, to a chucklehead like me, that makes it even more desirable.
Lambo says the SC18 “paves the way to further personalized development projects for Motorsport customers under the Squadra Corse brand.” So, like I said, this is probably a trial balloon. If people love the Lamborghini SC18, plan on seeing more vehicles in this vein.
Lamborghini SC18. Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Dirty Dozen
The aerodynamics package for the SC18 is described as being “extreme.” By the looks of it, they ain’t lying. The air intakes on the hood come from the Huracán GT3 EVO, for example. The sides and rear include fenders, fins, and air scoops inspired by the Huracán Super Trofeo EVO racer.
Hanging off the back end is the “large” (i.e. monstrously huge) carbon fiber wing. It has three mechanical adjustments, so you can tune it for optimal downforce on any given circuit. Lambo also punched in twelve air intakes on the rear deck lid.
They say it’s a way to “increase heat exchange and improve the cooling of the V12 engine.” Which any eagle-eyed, old rail bird will recognize as louvers from back in the hot rod days.
The racer look is finished off by the single nut wheels, 20-inch monsters on the front, and larger, 21-inch monsters at the rear. These are wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires. There’s even a telemetry system to measure all aspects of performance on the track.
Related: The Lamborghini Huracán Performante Spyder is all about open-air emotion.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Snake Pits & Shedding Skin
The SC18 has a top-of-the-line Lamborghini powertrain, bringing the performance of an honest to Ferruccio true racing car to your life. The naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 reels out 770 horsepower and a pavement rippling 531 lb-ft. torque. All that power is handled through an ISR (Independent Shifting Rod) seven-speed gearbox. No, I have no idea what an Independent Shifting Rod trans is, and they don’t give away any details.
It does sound like a snake pit gearbox from a pro-stock drag car, but I seriously doubt it’s one of those.
This drivetrain is wrapped in a body that has gone on a serious weight loss program. The entire body is new, made entirely of carbon fiber, and other ultra light materials. The whole shee-bang even drops to a low-ride-er 109 mm of ground clearance. If that doesn’t explain Lambo’s assertion that “road approved but designed primarily for use on the track,” then I don’t know what will.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
This is probably a trial balloon. If people love the Lamborghini SC18, plan on seeing more vehicles in this vein.Click To TweetColor Array
The color is Grigio Daytona with visible “details” and red screen-printing to enhance its sportiness. In layman’s terms, its grey with a trim kit with visible carbon fiber here and there. The interior is all done up in Nero Ade Alcantara with cross-stitching in Rosso Alala. In other words, black suede with red stitching. The seats themselves are carbon fiber bucket units.
Pricing & Availability
Lamborghini doesn’t mention cost, but given what their other factory specials have run, it will probably be comparable to a condo overlooking Central Park (and just as hard to come by).
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. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz. 
Lamborghini SC18 Gallery








Photos & Source: Automobili Lamborghini.



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2020 Infiniti Q50 Release Date, Interior, Redesign

2020 Infiniti Q50 Release Date, Interior, Redesign

The latest news about the best artificial Infiniti sedan will be coming soon for your 2020 Infiniti Q50 will come up with all the updates that will make him one of the best sedans. Acura TLX Type S would be competitors of this car a lot that will be updated on this car, the Interior and the exterior will get most updated and Infiniti this time really will be quite ready to issue this car.

Interior and Exterior

As being a luxurious sedan, the brand new Infiniti Q50 will have an attractive exterior style. Your body dimension and dimension on the 2020 Q50 model will likely be exactly the same because of the past model. But, the approaching Infiniti Q50 will use much better materials for that body. It has the light fat but unyielding. The cabin size might be a little bit larger than the existing Infiniti Q50 model.

In the front with the new 2020 Infiniti Q50, there will likely be some enhancements. The headlights applying the adaptive LED lights can be discovered. It’s going to enable us to acquire a good vision through the evening or in any climate situation. The front grille on the approaching Q50 can have a bigger dimension than the current model. new grille will probably be able to supply additional air to the engine. The font style and design will give the Q50 model a sharp look.

The modifications and enhancements of your Infiniti Q50 exterior design also are often discovered on the back side with the new Infiniti Q50. Using LED taillights for Q50 is actually a need to for this luxurious sedan. The Q50’s muffler also features a great design for the fantastic exhaust method. The Infiniti Q50 exterior style will make you fall in appreciate with this particular luxurious sedan.

The Infiniti Q50 dashboard will have leather and chrome finish to provide it a luxurious design and style. There will probably be a touchscreen display within the new Q50’s dashboard. You’ll be able to use it to control a number of Q50’s options and technologies. The front seat is going to be extremely relaxed, specifically for your driver. The seats are adjustable and very comfortable.

The interior cabin dimension from the Q50 model will be really at ease. The two the driver and passengers will get sufficient area for his or her legs and head. Some present-day attributes can be observed inside the brand new Q50. The most significant matter could be the touchscreen display. It will likely be important to get a luxury sedan to get that attribute. The wireless and Bluetooth also may be uncovered.

Engine Performance

The new engine of Infiniti Q50 will be the V6 engine with 3, 5-liter capability. This engine offered with 335 hp for your output. There is also another choice engine to the diesel engine with 2, two-liter engine that comes with 160 hp. The petrol engine might be offered with automated transmission method with 7 velocities of the level while the diesel will probably be out there with guide process.

Release Date and Price

Many of his circulating information about release date and price of this car may be the middle of creating you’re curious. Until recently the Infiniti has yet to provide information about the release date and price of this car. But if you allow us to speculate we believe that 2020 Infiniti Q50 will be in the release earlier in the year 2020 and later for the price will reach $55.000

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Ram 1500 North Edition: Over The River & Through The Woods (Literally)

Ram 1500 North Edition: Over The River & Through The Woods (Literally) The 2019 Ram 1500 North Edition takes it to Old Man Winter.
Goodies include a one-inch factory lift and locking differential. 
Ram’s special edition lineup has seen multiple new entries over the last year. 
Pick your poison Mopar fans! The Hydro Blue Sport, Lone Star Edition, Heavy Duty Night Editions; even a Kentucky Derby Edition. More recently, the 1500 Rebel 12 and 2500 Power Wagon Mojave Sand Editions come to mind. Ram is stacking the deck with special edition trucks and they are adding another to the mix.
The 1500 North Edition is arriving just as Old Man Winter sets up shop, but a note of observation first:
Trucks For Every Taste
Ram’s special edition blast (as it were) is not without sound reason or intent. Think of it like this: trucks sell in droves and that trend will continue for the foreseeable future. With so many on the road, driving one with a special edition theme says I’m part of the crowd – but – in my own individual way. Ram has plenty of that in their lineup today. And it’s especially alluring.
Related: Ram tops GM in sales for the time being.
Concerning the 1500 North Edition, it’s more than just looks – although it is that too. Based on the Big Horn, the North’s monochromatic theme includes the body-color bumpers, door handles, mirrors, and grille. But underneath the skin, the bones are solid.
“The 2019 Ram 1500 North is more than a great-looking pickup, it offers cold-weather content for truck owners who require a no-compromise 4×4 as part of their daily regimen,” explained Reid Bigland, Head of Ram Brand. “A factory lift, locking rear axle, and all-weather tires deliver confidence when your path is anything but clear.”
The 2019 Ram 1500 North Edition features a one-inch factory lift, an electric-locking rear axle, and front tow hooks. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Those Tires Though . . .
The all-weather tries are three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF), severe snow service-rated on/off-road Falken LT tires. Say that three times fast! Three is the magic number, however, for the transfer case, which has three different settings: Auto, High, and Low. Ram added an engine block heater too, for those early mornings after the truck sits facing a north wind all night.
Related: Simple but effective: Our full review of the 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman.
Interior Treatments
Plenty of warmth inside with a heated steering wheel and the heated, 12-way power driver’s seat with four-way power lumbar. SiriusXM Travel Link Weather, heated and folding mirrors, and Mopar all-weather floor mats are included.
2019 Ram 1500 North Edition interior layout. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Power & Performance
The North’s 3.6-liter Pentastar with eTorque creates 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. of torque, and features revised variable valve timing and two-step variable valve lift systems. By comparison, the larger 5.7-liter Hemi creates 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. of torque. Both engines have Interactive Deceleration Fuel Shut Off (iDFSO), which pauses fuel flow to the cylinders under deceleration in third gear and higher.
Every 2019 Ram 1500 – including the North Edition – is equipped with a fully-electronic TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic. The transmission features a wide spread of gear ratios to balance power and efficiency.
The engine choice is ultimately up to you.
Pricing & Availability
The 2019 Ram 1500 North Edition is available now with a starting MSRP of $47,585. The truck comes in Crew Cab 4×4 with either a short or long bed.
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.
2019 Ram 1500 North Edition Gallery





Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.



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2020 Infiniti QX60 Release Date, Redesign, Price

2020 Infiniti QX60 Release Date, Redesign, Price

With all the updates there will be on the latest generation of the 2020 Infiniti QX60 will make you think this car to enter into your plan, the quality of the vehicle will be a priority of the Infiniti and we believe this car will not disappoint you, stick family car will experience an increase in sales is evident from his numerous requests from the year 2018 and will continue on the following year.

Rumors are circulating there will be redesigned in the latest models of Infiniti QX60. And rumors about the release date of this car there is no certainty. Interior and exterior will experience many updates and what will be with the plugin hybrids we have yet to know for sure, but we believe that Infiniti will issue a plugin hybrid for Infiniti QX60.

Exterior and Interior redesign

The redesign interior cabin is unquestionably a powerful stage of Infiniti QX60 and we’re very sure that larger changes won’t come for that 2020 QX60. The spacious cabin makes a fantastic mixture with tons of normal tools. The primary point you’ll recognize can be a good element high-quality and a spacious cargo spot. In relation to equipment, there are actually two trim amounts – Pure and Luxe. The base Pure comes with convenient features like 18-inch wheels, power tailgate, xenon headlights, sunroof, LED fog lights, keyless entry, and ignition and so forth. About the inside, you are able to count on heated front seats, 9.0-inch touchscreen, tri-zone automatic climate control, USB, Bluetooth and satellite radio and simulated leather upholstery.

The Base trim consists of all over but additionally adds several exciting functions. Several of the highlights certainly is a premium audio method, remote engine get started, roof rails, rear bumper protector, driver memory settings, a heated steering wheel and so forth. Also, a whole plethora of optional packages can be found at this trim level.

In regards to base layout qualities, there’s no location for modifications at the second. With regards to mechanics, this models hasn’t altered for this five many years and unquestionably will not till the redesign. Within this element, we are speaking about a crossover that’s virtually exactly the same as the current-generation Pathfinder. The Infiniti QX60 could possibly be slightly longer, but two designs feature precisely the same wheelbase. They ride around the very same D Platform, which guarantees a spacious cabin and strong driving qualities.

In terms of the styling, 2020 Infiniti QX60 will are available in the brand’s acquainted method. A sleek profile in the blend with plenty of smooth lines and design components that characterize this crossover. Two many years ago, we saw a facelift which has brought new front and rear fascias, together with new headlights, bumpers and so forth. More modifications for this generation don’t appear so likely.

Engine Performance

2020 Infiniti QX60 is actually a hybrid thus it really is particular that it will eventually come with a standard engine and an electronic motor. The Infiniti QX60 hybrid edition is a 2.5 litter and 4 barrel engine working together with a 15 kW. It’ll be mated with CVT gear program. It can be indeed an incredible mixture. The engine has the skill to provide a total of 260 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque to produce it one particular in the most impressive engines during the industry. The engine is obtainable if 4 wheels drive and have an 8-velocity transmission that’s automated. Mileage has considerably greater and it ranges concerning 20 mpg, 21 mpg up to 27 mpg. As well present improved ground clearance than in advance of will obtainable by the new generation Infiniti QX60.

2020 Infiniti QX60 Release Date and Price

You may be asking when this car will be in the news release, rumor has it that this car will be released early in the year 2020. And some of his other rumor news saying that the release date of 2020 Infiniti QX60 there will be in the middle of the year 2020. We recommend that you wait for the confirmation directly from Infiniti regarding this information.

And for the price. We do not yet have information that is so right on the price of this car. Some competitors like the Acura MDX car and Audi Q7 also has yet to release information about the price. We also recommend that you wait for the official confirmation from the Infiniti on the price of this car.

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Top Automotive Trends 2018 (Driverless Cars Slip, Trucks & SUVs Surge)

Top Automotive Trends 2018 (Driverless Cars Slip, Trucks & SUVs Surge) As 2018 comes to a close, trucks and SUVs will continue to dominate.
Aftermarket sales remain strong as consumers seek to personalize their vehicles.
Despite bold promises from manufacturers, the public seems disinterested in autonomous driving. 
Here are the top automotive trends of 2018 with a look ahead to next year.
The automotive industry and aftermarket remain strong as Americans continue their love affair with personal transportation. Despite doom-and-gloom predictions to the contrary, cheap gas and a strong economy have encouraged shoppers to step into showrooms and drive out with something new. This year, aftermarket products have provided a large variety of choices to car enthusiasts, leading industry experts to believe that 2019 is primed for steady, continued growth.
Above all, trucks have supplanted import sedans to become the new status-symbol luxury vehicle.
Top Automotive Trends 2018: Trucks & SUVs Dominate
At the beginning of 2018, the auto industry watched to see which direction the trends would move. Concerns included alternate powertrains (hybrids & EVs), passenger car versus truck sales, and the impact of global events on consumer confidence.
With ten months of the year behind us, pickups, SUVs, and minivans have strengthened their dominance, jumping from 63 percent of the total market in 2017 to 68.5 percent as of October 2018.  As a result, we have seen major manufacturers like Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Ford drop some sedans due to slow sales. Additionally, luxury manufacturers began entering the light truck game. We even have SUVs from Jaguar, Maserati, Lamborghini, and Rolls-Royce – and it’s rumored Ferrari will also build one!
Related: The battle for younger buyers heats up in the SUV and crossover market.
Lamborghini Urus: Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Top Automotive Trends 2018: Online Retailers Benefit
As new vehicle sales go up, sales of aftermarket accessories also go up. Owners of new vehicles who want them personalized turn to their favorite aftermarket retailer. Advances in safety and technology, including lighting and cameras, trickle down to drivers of older cars who also want these features. And they get them from the aftermarket.
With trucks taking a larger slice of the pie, truck-specific wants like big wheels and lift kits sell strongly. And as consumers (including car owners) prefer to shop electronically, it’s online aftermarket retailers who are benefiting greatly from these trends.
On the flip side, hybrids and electric vehicles still account for a very small percentage of the market. Predictions that all road-going vehicles will be autonomous in five years have faded into the background. Several highly-publicized accidents and fatalities have given this technology a black eye, forcing some companies to postpone or even cancel their efforts.
The more realistic predictions are that widespread applications are at least a decade or two away.
Related: A recent AAA study finds most consumers are afraid of autonomous cars.
Earlier this year, Hyundai begun a strategic partnership with Autotalks for the manufacturing of Vehicle to Everything communication chipsets. V2X technology allows vehicles to communicate with each other, as well as road users and infrastructure. Photo: Hyundai Motor Company.
What Was Seen At SEMA 2018
Each year, thousands of car enthusiasts make their way to Las Vegas for the SEMA show. A colleague who attended shared some insights. He said that compared to previous visits, he has never seen the show so crowded, which speaks to the health of the aftermarket.
Unsurprisingly, the number one trend was trucks, trucks, and more trucks.
Horsepower was big, as always, and this year, reaching or surpassing 1,000 horsepower seemed almost par for the course. Electric cars were on display alongside the big gas-engine brutes; both a new electric Camaro concept and a ’49 Mercury converted to electric were shown. By contrast, autonomous vehicles were not a major highlight, as consumers continue to clutch their long-held desire to own their own set of wheels, preferably personalized.
Related: People still love driving despite onset of autonomous cars.
Chevy eCOPO Camaro Concept. Photo: Chevrolet.
2019 Projections: Engine Technology & Ride Sharing
New Engine Tech: Thanks to VW, the diesel engine is all but dead. New technologies like Nissan’s variable-displacement engine and Mazda’s compression-petrol engine will ensure gasoline remains a viable fuel source. Hybrids and pure EVs will slowly but surely capture a slightly larger percentage of sales.
However, as long as gas remains cheap in the U.S., trucks will sell in big numbers, especially with their high horsepower engines.
Ride-Sharing’s Next Ride: Uber, Lyft and the like may add to congestion in places like New York City, but they help convince young adults that old-school car ownership is no longer a given. Connected to this is the nascent “Vehicle Subscription” model. Vehicle subscriptions include maintenance, taxes, and insurance, all for one monthly number. Swaps into other models from the manufacturer’s lineup are usually included.
Consumers can walk away at any time. The downside? Monthly prices that run between $1,000-$3,000. They’re starting with luxury brands but, if it catches on, expect car makers to find ways to reduce that cost.
The “Mercedes-Benz Collection” allows subscribers to switch between different vehicles depending on their needs or lifestyle. The program consists of three tiers – Signature, Reserve, and Premier – with prices ranging from $1,095 to $2,995 per month after an activation fee. Subscribers can choose from all the available vehicles in that tier, sedans, coupes, cabriolets, roadsters, and wagons among them. Photo: MBUSA.
2019 Projections: Smarter Cities & Economic Impacts
Crowded Urban Areas: We are on a collision course as single-occupancy SUVs compete for space with ride-sharing drivers in already jammed urban areas. Add to that: FedEx and UPS trucks making hourly Amazon deliveries, lack of investment in public transportation, electric scooters serving as alternatives, and concerns about pollution and climate change.
Some European cities have already made plans to ban internal-combustion vehicles from their streets in the coming decade.
I predict that in 2019 some U.S. cities, recognizing that an outright ban is too extreme, will instead get serious about congestion pricing and “car-free pedestrian zones” as ways to combat the congestion.
The Elephant In The Room: The automotive industry, perhaps more than any other, depends very much on free global trade. A failure by world powers to reach a solution to trade issues could upend any or all of what we foresee for 2019.
Top Automotive Trends 2018: Boiling It Down
Overall, my predictions for 2019 are more of what we already have; pickups, Jeeps, crossovers, horsepower, customization, and individualization. The aftermarket is healthy and looking forward to continued, strong growth in 2019. Especially as SUVs keep taking a larger percentage of the new vehicle sales pie at the expense of fewer sedans.
Richard Reina is the Product Training Director at CARiD and an auto enthusiast and expert with over 30 years of experience working with cars.



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