Automotive

2019 Audi A6: The Digital Age Has Arrived

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

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2017 Toyota Yaris iA 6-Speed Manual Review

2017 Toyota Yaris iA 6-Speed Manual Review

There’s lots of choices in the compact sedan market with affordable and fuel-efficient models across the segment. But what if you are searching for one that’s also packed with features and surprisingly fun-to-drive? The new 2017 Toyota Yaris iA is a car you should have on your shopping list.
What’s New For 2017
Formerly known as the Scion iA, the 2017 Yaris iA comes under the Toyota umbrella now that Scion has been axed. It’s essentially unchanged compared to last year’s model.
Features & Options
Our 2017 Toyota Yaris iA tester came with the 6-speed manual transmission ($15,950) which is $250 more than the Scion version from last year. It comes well-equipped for a subcompact car with its abundant features. It offers up keyless entry, push-button start, tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, power mirrors, a 7-inch touchscreen, and 6-speaker sound system with music streaming. It also comes with steering-wheel controls, voice recognition for audio and phone, Bluetooth, a USB port, plus compatibility with Aha, Pandora, and Stitcher.
A 60/40 fold-flat rear seat was also included. Total MSRP including destination: $16,815.
Interior Highlights
We were impressed the moment we stepped into the Yaris iA’s cabin. The upright touchscreen and circular vents come right from the page of a Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class. It’s unusual to find this kind of material quality and fit and finish in a subcompact, costing less than $17,000. There’s lots of soft touch materials used throughout and the infotainment system features the kind of connectivity a high-tech generation wants.
The 7-inch touchscreen sits on the dash. It caught and kept our attention with its easy to read display. Room up front is typical for a subcompact and rear passengers will feel a bit cramped on longer jaunts around town. For cargo, the rear seats fold flat and open up to the sedan’s trunk.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2017 Toyota Yaris iA is powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing an ample 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft. of torque. The iA engine comes from Mazda, using direct injection with a high 12:1 compression ratio. The four-cylinder powerplant is tuned for fuel efficiency and achieves an EPA-estimated 30/39 city/highway and 34 combined with the 6-speed manual gearbox.
If you don’t want to shift yourself, a 6-speed automatic is available and gets better fuel mileage at 33/42 city/highway and 37 combined.
Driving Dynamics
There’s a lot to like about the Scion iA sedan with the manual gearbox. It’s a driver’s car from the start and offers plenty of fun for enthusiasts. We had the car for the weekend and had a chance to drive it in the city and mountains west of Denver.
The Yaris iA hugged the mountain curves with ease and little body lean. The manual gearbox is a joy to shift with crisp changes up and down in the gears. The 6-speed manual is more fun-to-drive than the automatic Scion iA we drove last year by a mile!
On the open road, we had to downshift into 5th on the mountain hills as 6th gear is tall and more of an overdrive. It was easy to find the right gear, however, as we motored through the city streets and made the commute through town. Handling is sporty and the suspension is just right with MacPherson struts in front and the torsion beam in the rear.
Conclusion
If you want a more engaging driving experience, we like the Toyota Yaris iA manual over the more serene automatic. For fuel mileage and city commuting, the Yaris iA automatic is the way to go. Our personal preference would be to sacrifice one or two mpg and go with the sportier driving machine, the 6-speed manual. It’s fun-to-drive, offers a more engaging experience, and still gets excellent fuel mileage overall.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Toyota Yaris iA Gallery

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2017 Toyota Yaris iA Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Unexpected Car Shows Are Always Worth Visiting

Unexpected Car Shows Are Always Worth Visiting

For me it has turned into an immutable fact that you should always, always head to a car show, especially if you are in a strange setting or you didn’t know about the car show in advance. About a month back, I found myself in just such a time and place, when an unexpected car show appeared out of nowhere.
It turned out to be a gloriously affirming good time of car related gearheadedness.
Quintessential Community
I was recently in Port Townsend, Washington on a working vacation. Port Townsend is a cute little Victorian-era town on the banks of Puget Sound. Back when it was founded, before the Civil War, they thought Port Townsend was going to be the San Francisco of the north. And they were nearly right, since at that time, Seattle was a brine-soaked series of mud flats and Tacoma was, uh, a brine-soaked series of mud flats (it’s amazing what a lot of rain will do to a place). But Port Townsend got outpaced by both Seattle and Tacoma and now exists, mainly, as a weekend getaway spot, artist colony, ex-hippie refuge and, somehow, a place for retired Californians to live.
Port Townsend was also a place where I stumbled onto a local car show that was pretty impressive; the Port Townsend Kiwanis Classic Car Show. Sure, there were the tastefully done up hot rods (I refuse to call them street rods) more than a few immaculate antique cars that looked showroom fresh 75 years on and, surprisingly, more than a few outright sports cars, plus interesting older cars and even – gasp – something French! Here are a few of my favorites, or at least the cars that caught my eye, followed by a photo gallery of the other rides assembled.
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
First up, let’s get my biases out of the way. This is a rather nice and tastefully modified Triumph TR3. It had all the period goodies like wire wheels and that factory grille bar with the driving lights, but it had also been seen-to here and there.

The interior was redone with new materials but retained that old style look; even the dash was redone, and just as tastefully. “But what’s this,” I asked as I walked around the front and took in the engine bay . . . that, my dear friends, is a Roots-type scroll supercharger. I never found the owner so I couldn’t tell you how much power this thing puts to the tarmac, but that’s an upgrade after my own heart.
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
Just aft of that Roots blower was this, the nearly impenetrable stronghold of Lucas, The Prince of Darkness.
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
Many a times have I stared, knuckles bleeding, tears welling up in my eyes, at just that fuse block. Many, many times have I looked on, feeling like an Old Testament prophet that God had decided to test. That fuse block, right there, is one of the biggest reasons why I drive a Miata.
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
Next up, we have this pickup, an older Chevy; I didn’t really pay attention, but what jumped out at me was the car club plaque screwed into the front bumper.
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
Badge of Honor
See, back in the 1950s, if you were in a car club, one of the things your dues got you, in addition to that totally cool Car Coat and the secret blood initiation, was some sort of identifying marker. In SoCal, they tended to be these stand-up things you put on the parcel shelf in your rear window. In other places, it was a bumper plaque like this one.
Check it out closely, it is exemplary of the art: up top, your car club; in this case The Rakers (and how cool of a club name is that?) and down at the bottom, where you hail from, in this case, Port Townsend. In other words, this guy was a Port Townsend gearhead waaaay back in the day, and he still is. Like I said, cool, no?
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
Red Hot
Ah, the Shoe Box Ford. Why they got called that I never knew, but that’s what everyone knows them as now. This is a particularly fine example that also hews very close to what cruiser cars were like back then. The modifications were usually subtle. This guy sported a very nice, deep wine red paint job; it was lowered a little, and was running on what looked like Gotti wheels (an odd choice, but they worked).
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
But what’s this? This would be some rather nice pinstriping flourishes up front, a la Von Dutch. And if you think, even for a second, that Von Dutch is that clothing line Justin Timberlake wears, I swear I will hunt you down with dogs and show you just how wrong you are.
Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.
I Fought The Law
But wait, it gets even better! What’s that, you might ask? That, my young Padawan, is a “Blue Dot.” That thing, right there in the center of the taillight, is an aftermarket item you could buy back in 50s and 60s. They are these faceted pieces of dark blue plastic about the size of a nickel, surrounded by a chrome bezel. And the deal was, you’d drill a hole in your taillight and mush them in there, and when you’d hit the brakes, you’d give off this purple-ish glow. Putting Blue Dots on your car back then was like rolling up your Pall Malls in your t-shirt sleeve, and turning up the collar on your Car Coat; it showed in no uncertain terms that you were A. Bad. Boy.
I know, it doesn’t seem like much until you consider that, for some reason lost to me, the local cops hated seeing them. You’d get pulled over and ticketed for some sort of penny-ante equipment infraction. But you didn’t care! You were a gearhead! The bulls could kiss it! Hand me a match, will ya? I am still personal friends with older guys that got hassled by cops because of this. See, when you’re a gearhead, there’s always something the cops are going to dislike. You get used to it, I suppose.
Here’s the rest of the cars that were at the show. Like I said, a pretty impressive turn out; everything from fabulous Hudson Hornets to Citroen Maseratis – and what sort of masochist owns a French car powered by a 70s vintage Italian engine way out in the wilds of the Olympic Peninsula? My kind of gearhead, that’s who.
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.
Port Townsend Kiwanis Classic Car Show Gallery

Gallery Photos: Tony Borroz.

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2019 Honda Insight Touring Review

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

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

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

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

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

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Roadway Deaths Dip Slightly; Overall Outlook Still Bleak

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

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

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

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Global Summit In Brussels, Belgium Examines Autonomous Driving

Global Summit In Brussels, Belgium Examines Autonomous Driving

Autonomous driving is one of the headline topics today in the automotive industry. A conversation on autonomy can include everything from technology and infrastructure, to legalities and testing. Sometimes, people will even voice apprehensions about an autonomous car, expressing their fears about life in an autonomous world. Recently, a new study highlighted that safety is still the main concern among consumers.
AutoSens organizers are in tune to this, understanding that collaboration is necessary for the successful implementation of autonomy.
Challenges & Opportunities
AutoSens returns this week to Autoworld in Brussels, Belgium, their second summit this year, following a successful event in May in Detroit, Michigan. The Detroit event marked the North American debut for AutoSens, with over 350 engineers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and other automotive industry experts in attendance. AutoSens is built on the visions these professionals share on vehicle perception technology, ADAS systems, and autonomous driving. Like in Detroit, AutoSens Brussels examines OEM requirements for developing these systems, and provides arenas for engagement, idea sharing, and collaboration.
“AutoSens has a strong following, backing within the industry, and is building a community of dedicated and passionate automotive engineers and technologists,” said Robert Stead, Managing Director, Sense Media. “That same community has a powerful desire to see through the roll out of autonomous vehicle technology.”
Photo: Sense Media.
Active Participation
AutoSens Brussels will see an influx of over 400 technical experts and engineers, each with a thorough understanding of connected car systems. The biggest topics in Brussels include camera developments, functional safety testing and validations, sensor fusion, image processing, imaging standards, and benchmarking. LiDAR, radar, computer vision, in-car networking, and the challenges facing each will be prime talking points as well.
Organizers are dedicated to providing the ideal environment for industry professionals to better understand what is talking place in these key areas. The strongest aspect of AutoSens is how attendees participate in the conversations, bring ideas to the table, identify problems, and even implement solutions. In Brussels there will be ample opportunity: the 4-day program includes 6 expert workshops, vehicle demonstrations, over 60 keynote-style conference sessions, 40 plus booth exhibitions, 8 industry awards, and a gala ceremony.
“Keeping engineers at the core, AutoSens in Brussels will see an international awards program and gala dinner in Europe, extended learning through an enhanced series of workshops, continuation of the IEEE P2020 working group activities, and vehicle demos to showcase the latest technology as we develop the ADAS and autonomous vehicle technology community this year,” Stead said.
Photo: Sense Media.
Accomplished Voices
The speakers at AutoSens Brussels are as diverse as they are distinguished. Collectively, the panel has experience in everything from robotics and computer vision, to automotive electronics, digital imaging, and functional safety. Each speaker was handpicked and selected based on their contributions to functional safety, driver assistance systems, autonomous cars, and their overall passion for the topics. Speakers at AutoSens Brussels include:
Philipp Hoffmann, Research, New Technologies and Innovation, Project Leader, BMW Group.
Heiko Hirschmueller, Co-Founder, Roboception.
Erich Ramschak, Sensor Product Manager, ADAS Engineering, AVL.
Markus Heimberger, System Architect; Senior Expert, Valeo.
Chris Davies, Head of Technical Superiority, Belron.
Saskia de Craen, Senior Researcher, SWOV.
Paul Jennings, Professor, University of Warwick.
Sheldon Russell, Senior Research Associate, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.
Junmuk Lee, Senior Research Engineer, Hyundai Autron.
Erik Vinkhuyzen, Senior Researcher, Nissan Research Center.
Photo: Sense Media.

Historic Appeal
AutoSens Brussels will be held in two different venues, the first of which is the Autoworld private museum. Organizers believe Autoworld’s architecture, car collection, and history make it the ideal location. During World War l, Autoworld served as the German army’s garage, while the Mundaneum, created by Belgian lawyers Paul Otlet and Henri La Fontaine, was installed there in 1920. The AutoSens Awards will take place on September 20th at the Atomium.
AutoSens Brussels begins on Tuesday, September 19th and runs through Thursday, September 21st. Registration is currently open and the full schedule can be found here.
“We have some really exciting things in store so the team and I are looking forward to seeing how the industry responds,” Stead said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

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

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

Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

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Brabham BT62 Emerges During Monterey Car Week

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

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Smyrna, Tennessee Receives New Investments From Nissan

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

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