Automotive

A Comprehensive Look At The Technology Behind The 2018 Hyundai Ioniq

A Comprehensive Look At The Technology Behind The 2018 Hyundai Ioniq The eco-friendly Ioniq has three different electrified powertrains on a single, dedicated platform Hyundai says offers the latest safety and convenience technologies. The model range has been simplified to include only two trims, Electric and Limited, while a Plug-in Hybrid model joins the lineup. Overall, the Ioniq offers buyers an efficient mode of transportation at a fairly modest price point.
Power & Performance
Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid
The 2018 Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid provides an all-electric range of more than 29 miles, 119 MPGe in EV mode, and 52 mpg in hybrid mode. Hyundai utilizes a Kappa 1.6-liter direct-injected Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with improved thermal efficiency. It’s paired to a six-speed double-clutch transmission and a 45kW (60 horsepower) electric motor. The electric motor can function up to 75 mph, with instantaneous torque at low speeds and available power-assist at higher speeds.
Ioniq Hybrid
The Ioniq Hybrid’s 32 kW electric motor creates 43 horsepower and an estimated maximum torque of 125 lb-ft.; the lithium-ion polymer battery has a 1.56 kWh capacity. Total system output is 139 horsepower with an EPA-estimated 58 combined mpg, the highest rating of any non-plug-in vehicle in the United States, according to Hyundai.
Ioniq Electric
Customers can opt for the Ioniq Electric, a completely electric vehicle with a 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery and an estimated range of 124 miles. The 88 kW electric motor, paired to a single-speed, reduction-gear transmission, has a maximum output of 118 horsepower and 218 lb-ft. of torque. According to Hyundai, the Ioniq Electric’s EPA-estimated 136 MPGe rating is the highest of any electric vehicle in the United States.
2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Battery Composition
One of the central components of the Ioniq is the battery, designed to be compact, lightweight, and highly efficient. Battery power for each Ioniq model comes from something called a permanent magnet synchronous motor. Hyundai says the parts were “optimized by reducing the thickness of core components by up to 10 percent and adopting rectangular-section copper wire to decrease core and copper loss.”
The lithium-ion polymer battery pack is 20 percent lighter than non-polymer lithium-ion batteries, something Hyundai believes is key for efficiency and interior room. With the battery’s placement (under the rear seats) and the vehicle’s center of gravity taken into account, the Ioniq Hybrid provides over 120 cubic feet of total interior volume. The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid and the Ioniq Electric, despite having larger battery systems, still offer nearly 120 cubic feet of interior volume. The Ioniq Electric has Level 3 DC fast-charging capability.
Transmission Tech
The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid and Hybrid both feature the aforementioned six-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission. Low-friction bearings and low-viscosity oil are hallmarks of the transmission, designed to be more fun to drive. Hyundai notes the criticisms of Continuously Variable Transmissions, saying the “rubber band-like acceleration” synonymous with the typical hybrid is not a characteristic of the Ioniq. Drivers can even select a Sport mode which holds the lower gears for longer, and combines engine and electric motor power for more spirited driving.
Light & Tight
Hyundai’s engineers pursued significant weight reduction targets to increase efficiency and performance. Aluminum was utilized for the hood and tailgate, which dropped 27 lbs. from the Ioniq. The lead-acid auxiliary 12V battery found in other hybrids was cut from the Ioniq Hybrid, a savings of 26 lbs. Less obvious components, like the cargo screen cover, saw a weight reduction.
The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid and Hybrid use a multi-link rear suspension, complete with dual lower control arms to enhance ride and handling. Aluminum usage throughout the suspension saves about 22 lbs. – roughly 13 lbs. in the front and another nine in the rear. The Ioniq Electric utilizes a torsion-beam rear axle, providing more space for the 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer batteries. The steering and regenerative braking systems received additional tweaks while Michelin low-rolling-resistance tires were added. Overall, Hyundai says the focus was to create a responsive and engaging vehicle.
Structurally, the Ioniq is more than 50 percent advanced high-strength steel to provide the torsional rigidity necessary for both performance and safety. Over 470 feet worth of advanced structural adhesives are employed to increase rigidity and facilitate weight reduction.
2018 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Aerodynamic Art
Similar to the weight reduction measures, specific aerodynamic targets were set. Throughout development, engineers and designers worked closely to ensure a stylish and functional design. Applications like front wheel air curtains, a rear spoiler and diffuser, side sill moldings, and a closed-wheel design contribute to a high aerodynamic efficiency of 0.24 Cd. Further, the Plug-in Hybrid and Hybrid feature a three-stage active air flap integrated with the front grille.
Hyundai says form and function evolved simultaneously in a complementary fashion, something Ioniq buyers will likely appreciate.
Eco Interior
Recycled and other ecologically-sensitive materials are found inside the Ioniq, one of the car’s most interesting but little known facts. The interior door covers are made of plastic combined with powdered wood and volcanic stone, and there are less oil-based products inside overall. Raw materials extracted from sugar cane were applied on the headliner and carpet, for example. Renewable ingredients extracted from soybean oil were used for the metallic paint seen on the Ioniq’s various components.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Connectivity & Security
The 2018 Ioniq features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai’s Blue Link connectivity services. The latter offers Remote Start with Climate Control, Destination Search powered by Google, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. Blue Link is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, Android Wear, and Apple Watch.
Advanced safety features include Smart Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, and Dynamic Bending Lights. There are seven total airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag.
Color Choices
The Ioniq comes in Black Noir Pearl, Symphony Air Silver, Electric Blue Metallic, Ceramic White, Summit Gray, and a new Scarlet Red for the Hybrid model.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

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2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Gets Dark Cherry Top, Adds More Goodies

2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Gets Dark Cherry Top, Adds More Goodies Well, that’s an interesting option. Mazda just added a bunch of stuff to their new MX-5, but the one they’re making the biggest deal about is how there’s a new color available for the soft top. For some reason, they thought red (okay Dark Cherry) would be a good color to go with. It doesn’t immediately strike me as a great idea, but the more I look at it, the more it seems to work.
More Everything Please
The 2018 MX-5 (nee’ Miata) is the fourth in the long running series of Mazda’s very successful roadsters. Although I have sadly not driven the new model yet, literally everyone I’ve talked to says they’re amazing little cars. Mazda has been able to trim the weight way down, around 2,200 lbs., while upping the engine output and adding lots of comfort and tech frosting. For example, the 2018 MX-5 Sport adds an infotainment system with a 7-inch color touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, and HD Radio. Further, the MX-5 Grand Touring comes standard with seemingly everything: heated, leather-trimmed seats, automatic climate control, automatic on/off headlights, Lane Departure Warning, navigation, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and additional sound absorption material in the cloth headliner.
Mazda has also tweaked the chassis a little bit for 2018. The soft top’s rear suspension and power steering have been retuned to provide even more grip and positive turn-in. Mazda also says these tweaks improve unwanted cabin noise.
Limited Edition?
Mazda has also added an Auburn-colored interior package and Nappa leather seating surfaces for the MX-5 Grand Touring. Previously you could only get that in the MX-5 RF Launch Edition. This is a great example of a typical Miata switch-er-oo, and Mazda has long done this. Make a limited-edition car with a given, usually quite attractive color, and then 6 months later, offer that color as a basic option choice. The first gens only came in three colors, white, blue, and red; then Mazda, after much clamoring from the masses, offered British Racing Green in the first ever limited M-Edition. And about 1,000 people were happy. And then six months later, you could get a British Racing Green Miata just by ticking a box and about 1,000 people were very unhappy. So I do empathize with those out there that ponied up the extra dollars for the RF Launch Edition.
In August of 2016, Mazda said a select group of customers had been notified via email with a window of time to reserve an MX-5 RF Launch Edition before ordering opened to the public. Mazda said each vehicle was “being made to order.” Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Joining The Club
As with Miatas gone by, the 2018 comes in three basic trim levels. The Sport is the entry-level model, the Club is the performance-oriented, factory stripper/Autocross model with all the go-fast goodies, and the Grand Touring represents the full-zoot. This goes without saying, but any of these choices will get you a very sharp knife of a car that can out-corner and out-brake 99 percent of the cars out there, but the one you really want is the Club; the MX-5 Club is an even sharper knife.
MX-5 Club now comes with heated cloth seats with red stitching, which is a great idea if you like to drive with the top down in colder weather. It also comes standard with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, so you can buy a much wider variety of aftermarket tires to tweak the performance further. If you opt for the six-speed manual (and you really should, because Miatas have the best gear selector outside of a Formula Ford), then you also get Bilstein shocks, a limited-slip differential, and a shock tower brace. Yes, you will notice the difference with those three performance additions.
Speaking of performance additions, the MX-5 Club has an available Brembo/BBS Package which now includes a RECARO Package with heated cloth RECARO sport seats. You will also notice the aerodynamic side still extensions, a rear bumper skirt, forged 17-inch BBS wheels, and front Brembo brakes. That translates into a car that can stop on a dime and give you nine cents change. See what I mean? The MX-5 Club is the one you want.
Pricing & Availability
Pricing for the 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata starts around $25,000 for the Sport with a manual, up to over $31,000 for the Grand Touring. The Brembo/BBS and Brembo/BBS RECARO packages will tack on roughly another $3,700 to $4,500. The new MX-5 is arriving at dealerships now with nationwide availability by next month. If you buy one, you know which one. Yeah, that one!
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: Mazda North American Operations.

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The all-new 2019 Genesis G70 is the BMW 3-Series' latest worry

The all-new 2019 Genesis G70 is the BMW 3-Series' latest worry The latest from Hyundai’s newly established luxury brand is here to make the Germans quiver in their shoes.

What’s going on?
Amid a massive concert featuring some of America’s greatest pop stars in South Korea, Hyundai’s new luxury sub-brand, Genesis, revealed its latest concoction. Meet the 2019 Genesis G70 sedan, the BMW 3-Series’ latest contender from the Far East.
Many years in the making with plenty of hype and anticipation to accompany, the new Genesis G70 seeks to steal buyers away from the traditional European, and even Japanese, automakers currently dominating the compact sports sedan segment. And there’s a lot of participation. Besides the BMW 3-Series, the G70 joins the battlegrounds currently occupied by the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar XE, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and even America’s Cadillac ATS.
Can Genesis put a dent in one of the most competitive market segments in the entire automotive industry? We think so, and on paper, the G70 is very promising.
“The Genesis G70 is the latest demonstration of our dedication to delivering innovative, customer-oriented vehicles,” said Vice Chairman Dr. Woong-Chul Yang. “We will continue to focus our R&D efforts on the development and expansion of the Genesis brand. It is a great point of pride to have Genesis showcase what a true luxury brand of Korean origin can present to our discerning customers.”
It’s genesis for Genesis

With the intent to compete with the BMW 3-Series, the Genesis G70 has some big shoes to fill. As a looker, the G70 provides a new take on the compact luxury sports sedan in the exterior design department. For instance, it doesn’t particularly act like it’s trying to mimic any of its competition. Instead, the G70 sports various aesthetic traits that clearly separate it from the competition. As a result, the G70 is unique in its own right, meshing a hint of European influence with South Korean Gangam-style flare.
Luc Donkerwolke, formerly of Bentley, calls the new G70 a true representation of Genesis’s new “athletic elegance” design theme.
“At Genesis, we shape fascination and desire with the passion, dedication and talent from our designers. We modulated all parameters from the Genesis DNA to tailor a sports sedan. This challenge required the highest skills and know-how. The G70 is designed to captivate all senses with its sensuous and tensioned muscular volumes.”
Inside, the Genesis G70’s interior appointments also seem well up to the task. It visually offers a luxury feel with a hint of sportiness. To prove that Genesis is serious about upping its performance driving game, the dashboard is angled towards the driver. That’s so the G70s infotainment and center stack can be easily controlled, much like the glory days of some old BMWs.
But it’s not all just show…
There’s plenty of go too with the choice of a 2.0L turbocharged gasoline inline-four, a range-topping 3.3L twin-turbo V6, and a 2.2L turbodiesel inline-four for Asian and European markets. The 2.0L GDI gas four is one we’ve become familiar with, offering around 250 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of twist. Though equip the sport package and the horsepower rating gets a subtle bump.
The 3.3L twin-turbo GDI V6 is another engine we’re already familiar with, serving duty in the latest G80 and G90 sedans. That’s good for around 370hp and 376 lb-ft of twist, which allows the fastest G70 to hit 62 miles per hour in just 4.7 seconds.
Genesis didn’t specify, but we imagine the company’s preexisting eight-speed automatic will serve cog swapping duty.
And it’s not just all power either…
Supporting the G70’s promising performance is a multi-link rear suspension setup, dynamic torque vectoring, and even a standard mechanical limited-slip differential. This is the kind of stuff that we’ve come to expect from German competition. But to find it on a new luxury sports sedan that’s the first of its kind from Korea is even more surprising.
To tweak the handling performance, Genesis says the G70 was extensively tested in extreme situations. From Death Valley, USA, to the “Green Hell” Nurburgring, to the Austrian Alps, and the northern end of Sweden, Genesis wanted to ensure the most optimal handling, performance, and durability in the most challenging of climates.
This of course means we can expect the G70 to come loaded with lots of kit. The list ranges from Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 15-speaker Lexicon surround audio system, and voice recognition. All of it is controlled by an eight-inch LCD touchscreen.
How much will it cost and when will it go on sale?
Genesis didn’t announce priving as of yet. But such specific details will be revealed sometime in early 2018.
– By: Chris Chin
2019 Genesis G70 Quick Specifications
Category
Genesis G70
Length (mm)
4,685
Width (mm)
1,850
Height (mm)
1,400
Wheelbase (mm)
2,835

Overhang
(mm)
F
805
R
1,045
Engine Type
Lambda II 3.3 T-GDI
Theta II 2.0 T-GDI
R-FR 2.2 VGT
Drive Configuration
RWD
AWD
RWD
AWD
RWD
AWD

Fuel Economy
(km/ℓ)
9.0(19”)
8.6(19”)
10.7(18”)
10.4(19”)
10.0(18”)
9.5(19”)

15.2(17”)
14.5(18”)

13.6(17”)
13.5(18”)
Displacement
(cc)
3,342
1,998
2,199
Max Power
(ps)
370

252
(Sports Package: 255)
202
Max Torque
(kg·m)
52.0
36.0
45.0
2019 Genesis G70 Photo Gallery

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Swedish Families Help Volvo Develop Autonomous Vehicles

Swedish Families Help Volvo Develop Autonomous Vehicles
Swedish families are playing an instrumental role in Volvo’s autonomous vehicle development. The Hains and Simonovskis from Gothenburg, Sweden are already navigating the city in XC90 SUVs as part of Volvo’s Drive Me program. The families are utilizing XC90s equipped with autonomous technology just as they would any other vehicle for their daily routines. Volvo’s engineers will use the corresponding feedback and impressions to further develop the company’s driverless technology.
Volvo plans to have fully automated cars available by 2021.
Daily Lives
Three more families are expected to join early next year and Volvo says up to 100 people will be involved in the Drive Me program. Volvo’s engineers will monitor and study how the autonomous XC90 SUVs accompany these families throughout the day, from taking the kids to school to getting groceries. Volvo says the Drive Me program is about real customers testing the different stages of driver assisted and, eventually, fully autonomous technology.
The Hain family. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Family Matters
The Hain family comprises of Alex and Paula (45 years old), and their daughters Filippa (17) and Smilla (14). The Hains were the first ones selected to take part in the Drive Me initiative earlier this year. Joining the Hain’s are Sasko Simonovski (44) and his wife Anna (41), and their children Elin (10) and Villiam (8). The Volvo XC90s received by both families feature the automaker’s latest driver assistance suite, complete with a variety of cameras and sensors.
“Drive Me is an important research project for Volvo Cars,” said Henrik Green, Senior Vice President for Volvo’s R&D department. “We expect to learn a lot from engaging these families and will use their experiences to shape the development of our autonomous driving technology, so that by 2021 we can offer our customers a fully autonomous car.”
During the initial stages, the Hains and Simonovskis will keep their hands on the wheel as they normally would any other vehicle. Over time, Drive Me participants will gradually be introduced to more advanced driverless technology after receiving special training. Volvo says these more advanced vehicles will first be introduced in controlled environments with supervision from a safety expert.
The Simonovski family. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Forward Thinking
Proponents of autonomous driving have pointed to a number of benefits, including a world where no single person is hurt or killed in a traffic accident. Volvo’s Vision 2020 commitment is about developing technology to create a safer world, including the end goal of eliminating road fatalities. Across the industry, global summits on automated driving are being held to address and overcome the challenges facing autonomous cars.
“It feels great to be a part of this project,” commented Alex Hain. “We get the chance to be part of developing technology that will one day save lives.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Volvo Car Group.

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2018 Subaru BRZ tS Arrives This Spring, Limited To 500 Units

2018 Subaru BRZ tS Arrives This Spring, Limited To 500 Units Finally, finally, finally! Subaru just announced they will be rolling out a limited edition, performance version of the BRZ sports coupe for 2018. Like many of you, I have been waiting impatiently for Subaru to let the STI gurus have a go at their everso enjoyable sports coupe. And although this is not the full-blown fire-breather of our dreams, at least it’s a start.
Holiday Wishes
The BRZ is a great little car. In a lot of ways, it’s sort of like the Miata coupe that Mazda never made. It’s light, handles well, is real-wheel drive, inexpensive and, sadly, not nearly as powerful as it could be. You, me, them, all of us gearheads know it would be so easy to drop a bigger mill under that low hood. And Subaru already has them, just waiting on the shelf. Yes, we all understand the exigencies of price points for the given buyer demographic, and insurance burdens, but c’mon Subaru (we seemed to have collectively begged) Do. The. Right. Thing. and make a higher performance version of the BRZ.
Performance Tech
Officially it’s called the 2018 BRZ tS (tuned by STI). So it’s not even an official STI deal, it’s just Subie’s in-house skunk works breathed on it here and there. But what they have done is rather nice, even if it’s not Earth-shakingly significant. The BRZ tS adds STI-tuned front and rear SACHS dampers (shocks) and coil springs along with an STI flexible V-brace in the engine compartment to stiffen things up. New draw stiffeners are added to the chassis and sub-frame to improve steering response. You’d figure the torsional rigidity is now on balance with the main wing spar of a Boeing 747.
Subaru has also upped the wheel size for the first time. The BRZ tS comes equipped with lightweight, 18-inch wheels sporting 215/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport tires for mollusk-like grip and quicker turn-ins. The brakes are Brembo rotors clamped by 4-piston front calipers and 2-piston rear calipers for better stopping power, fade resistance, and pedal feel.
Exterior Design
The exterior is said to be more aggressive thanks to an exclusive STI carbon fiber rear spoiler. The rear wing is manually adjustable so you can “fine-tune rear downforce for track driving.” Yeah, have fun playing with that, but just remember aerodynamics is a Science with a capital “S” and your hospital stay can be Long with a capital “L” and Expensive with a capital “E.” Proceed with caution. Anyway, the 2018 BRZ tS also has front, rear, and even side underspoilers for better airflow and increased traction and stability. The 2018 BRZ tS is available in three colors: WR Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Silica, and Crystal White Pearl. You will get the World Rally Blue.
Like it’s limited edition sibling, the WRX STI Type RA, the BRZ tS is embellished with an exclusive Cherry Blossom Red accent around the front grille and rear bumper cover. The official BRZ tS badge in chrome and red is on the front grille and rear hatch. The exterior mirrors (which can fold), the roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and the BRZ and Subaru badging are all finished in black. Sadly, the fog lights have been removed and replaced with “unique fog light covers.” More light is always better, but Subie has a habit of taking away fog and driving lights to differentiate their more special versions.
Interior Treatments
The cockpit is highlighted by black leather and Alcantara upholstery, with contrasting red stitching and accents all the way through the interior; steering wheel, door and dash panels, knee pads, shifter, emergency brake boot, and visor over the gauge cluster. The front seats even have red leather bolsters and the seatbacks are embroidered with the tS logo. The front seat belts are red and the rearview mirror is frameless. There is a standard 4.2-inch LCD multi-function display positioned next to the tach that shows vehicle performance data: things like lateral Gs, accelerator pedal position, braking force, steering angle, oil and coolant temperature, battery voltage, and an integrated stop watch for recording lap times. I like that bit!
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 hot rod BRZ tS (tuned by STI) will be limited to 500 units and ring out at $33,495, not prohibitively expensive. Expect to see the BRZ tS at Subaru retailers this spring.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photo & Source: Subaru of America, Inc.

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Volvo Announces XC90 Production In South Carolina

Volvo Announces XC90 Production In South Carolina

The next generation XC90 will be built at Volvo Cars’ new manufacturing plant in Berkeley County, South Carolina beginning in 2021. The announcement brings Volvo’s total U.S. investment in manufacturing to just over 1.1 billion.
“The continued expansion of our plant in South Carolina is another significant commitment to the US market,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive, Volvo Cars. “The plant in Charleston will serve both the U.S. and international markets and forms a strong foundation for our future growth in the U.S. and globally.”
Job Creation
In the fall of 2018, S60 production will begin at Volvo’s new South Carolina facility. To support production, 2,000 new employees are being hired but with plans to build the XC90 in South Carolina, another 1,900 jobs are expected. Volvo says the full economic impact will be much greater once the plant is fully operational and the “job multiplier” effect is accounted for.
Global Strategy
Volvo’s manufacturing strategy is based on a “build where you sell” approach. Concerning the XC90, the U.S. is the largest market for the SUV, although a considerable number of units will be exported from the Port of Charleston. Total U.S. production capacity at the plant will rise to 150,000 vehicles annually Volvo predicts.
Prior to the XC90’s arrival, some felt Volvo’s presence in the U.S. was lackluster. When the XC90 arrived for Volvo retailers and dealer principals in 2015, it was often met with open arms and seen as something that could revive the brand for American buyers. Indeed it proved to be that, winning a number of awards and jumping U.S. sales from a low of 56,000 units in 2014 to almost 83,000 in 2016.
Photo: Volvo Cars.
Carolina Pride
In addition to the Charleston plant, Volvo is planning a neighboring office campus to house up to 300 staff from R&D, purchasing, quality, and the regional sales team. Volvo Cars announced in May 2015 – just as the XC90 was hitting the U.S. – that its first ever manufacturing plant here would be located just outside Charleston, South Carolina. Volvo cited direct access to international ports and infrastructure, a well-trained labor force, an attractive investment environment, and experience in the high tech manufacturing sector as the primary reasons to come to South Carolina.
“We’re excited to add a second car to our first American factory in South Carolina and we continue to be impressed by the entrepreneurial spirit in South Carolina,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Car USA. “Our business in the U.S. has been undergoing a transformation over the past two years and this is an important next step for our development here.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Volvo Cars.

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2019 Chevy Silverado Revealed: What We Know Thus Far

2019 Chevy Silverado Revealed: What We Know Thus Far During the Chevy Truck Centennial at Texas Motor Speedway, Chevrolet pulled the wraps off the 2019 Silverado. The event concluded Chevrolet’s 100-day celebration, commemorating a century’s worth of truck manufacturing. The next-generation Silverado was unveiled in front of a crowd at Texas Motor Speedway, including Chevy Truck Legends members, a recently launched customer loyalty program.
Alan Batey, President of General Motors North America, and Global Head of Chevrolet, was on hand for the celebration.
“Many of our owners depend on their trucks for work and play, personalize their trucks in astonishing ways, and pass their loyalty for Chevy trucks down from generation to generation,” he said.
Material Mix
In 2015, Ford shed up to 700 lbs. from their F-150 by switching the truck’s body to aluminum. And for now two years, Chevrolet has pursued their crosstown rivals in a number of advertisements that tout the benefits of steel over aluminum. From commercials with bricks and toolboxes, to a focus group of comic book enthusiasts who meet the almighty Aluminum Man, Chevrolet’s marketing has tried to punch a hole (literally) through Ford’s strategy. It was during this time rumors abound that Chevrolet might switch to aluminum after all, and then what?
Automotive News reports that GM is planning on carbon fiber beds in the near future, although the Detroit automaker has not released anything officially. While more details are forthcoming, Chevrolet did confirm the new Silverado will utilize higher-grade alloys for its roll-formed, high-strength steel bed. The move is expected to cut weight while allowing owners to get the most out of the bed.
“This use of mixed materials and advanced manufacturing is evident throughout the Silverado, resulting in a significant reduction in total vehicle weight and improved performance in many measures,” reads a statement from Chevrolet.
The terms “mixed materials” and “advanced manufacturing” were not defined by Chevrolet.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Power & Performance
The current Silverado has three engines on offer, including a beefy 6.2-liter V8 that cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft. of torque. Right now, we don’t know what the 2019 Silverado will offer; Chevrolet didn’t exactly say, just that there will be more engine and transmission combinations. Rumors have swirled in recent times that a Duramax might show up, especially since Ram has offered the EcoDiesel for a minute and Ford confirmed a Power Stroke for the F-150 late next year. It’s possible – anything is – but Chevrolet isn’t saying one way or the other just yet.
One of the strongest engines in the current lineup, the 5.3 EcoTec3, offers buyers a solid balance between power and fuel economy. At 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft. of torque, it delivers an EPA-estimated 16/22 city/highway mpg. It is our hope GM keeps this engine around when the 2019 Silverado hits the market. There are eight variations expected when that happens, including the Silverado LT Trailboss with a Z71 package and two-inch suspension lift.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Inspiration & Lineage
The 2019 Chevy Silverado takes its inspiration from its ancestors, particularly the Advance Design trucks following World War II and the C/K series of the 1960s. According to Chevrolet, those trucks set the standard for pickup design in their eras, and are some of the most coveted vintage trucks on the market today. Elements from the late 1940s are actually seen throughout the current Silverado, especially in the front. Designers examined Chevy’s history and concluded trucks during that time were impossible to miss with their defined horizontal elements and sweeping grille bars.
“That gave the trucks a real presence and a very identifiable look,” Chevrolet Spokesman Tom Wilkinson told us in late 2015. “When our designers looked at this over the years, they realized this is what set Chevy trucks apart.”
Chevrolet wants the same for the 2019 Silverado. The automaker hopes this new generation will be remembered as one that challenged conventional truck designs, just as its predecessors did decades ago.
Pricing & Availability
The 2019 Chevy Silverado will make its public debut next month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. Expect full details, including performance specs, engine options, and pricing information at that time.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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2018 Nissan Pathfinder Arrives With New Features, Special Editions

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Arrives With New Features, Special Editions

Last year, the Nissan Pathfinder underwent a major redesign, so for 2018, there’s some detail improvements here and there, along with new pricing across the board. On sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide, the 2018 Pathfinder has a starting price of $30,790. All the updates give you “more adventure capability, a freshened exterior look, and enhanced safety, technology, performance, and style,” according to Nissan. Whether it’s adventuresome or not, there are some new bits on the Pathfinder worth noting.
More Driver Aids
For 2018, the Pathfinder receives new features including standard Automatic Emergency Braking, an enhanced Midnight Edition appearance package, and Nissan’s new Rear Door Alert. 2018 also sees two new colors, Scarlet Ember and Midnight Pine, standard Intelligent Cruise Control, and NissanConnect with Navigation and Services on the Pathfinder SL. Previously those were considered high zoot packages only found on the Platinum grade Pathfinders. 2018 also brings 4 additional USB ports for a total of 6.
The Rear Door Alert system, which I covered recently, is there to help remind customers of anything that may be forgotten in the rear seat, such as “pets, valuables, dry cleaning, groceries, and more.” The “and more” if I have to spell this out, equates to Your Children! If the Rear Door Alert system detects that a rear door has been opened prior to driving, and the driver does not open a rear door again at the end of a drive, the Rear Door Alert reminds you that something might have been left in the back. I know, I know, but I bet some people need stuff like this.
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Back In Black
That new Pathfinder Midnight Edition is now available on both Platinum grade and SL trim levels, although Nissan cautions that deliveries of the Midnight Edition SLs might take a little longer. The Pathfinder Midnight Edition highlights include 20-inch Midnight Edition aluminum-alloy wheels with a bunch of blacked-out stuff lathered all over. There are black mirror caps, black spoiler, black roof rails, black grille surround, black front and rear fascia accents, black license plate finisher, black badging, and black splash guards. The Pathfinder Midnight Edition also comes with illuminated kick plates, exterior approach lighting and, if you want to go whole-hog, Midnight Edition floor mats. Yes, floor mats! Color choices are three: Gun Metallic, Magnetic Black, and, curiously, Pearl White.
The 2018 Pathfinder seats seven, is offered in 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive, and comes in four grade levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Here’s a handy little chart showing you the pricing for the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder:
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.
Pathfinder S 2WD
$30,790 USD
Pathfinder SV 2WD
$33,480 USD
Pathfinder SL 2WD
$37,500 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 2WD
$42,320 USD
Pathfinder S 4WD
$32,480 USD
Pathfinder SV 4WD
$35,170 USD
Pathfinder SL 4WD
$39,190 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 4WD
$44,010 USD
Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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Automoblog Book Garage: Porsche 70 Years

Automoblog Book Garage: Porsche 70 Years

Every so often, we see a title that captures the subject perfectly. That’s not an easy task. Take 70 years of Porsche, for example, and sum it up in only a few words. That’s a tall order but author Randy Leffingwell did it and did it rather directly.
Our publication has a certain admiration for Porsche but truthfully, we can’t always pinpoint why. It’s hard to explain – like the Apple Jacks commercials where any kid with a colorful bowl of the cereal had to field the “why, they don’t taste like apples” question.
Just Because
Porsche is, for us, effectively Apple Jacks. No, they don’t “taste” and feel like other cars. And we can’t explain why we like them, we just do, much like those who toss Apple Jacks in their cart at the grocery store. With regard to Porsche, is it the performance, the design, the history? It’s all of it really, and that’s why Leffingwell’s book is so important.
Porsche 70 Years helps put into words why we love the famed German automaker. Leffingwell walks his readers through the entire Porsche courtyard, from the 356, 904, and 917, to the 911, 928, and 935. Even the more modern flair, like the Cayman and Boxter are showcased. In-depth descriptions of the cars and significant Porsche events are accompanied by stunning, but extremely rare images.
And then there’s that wonderful title. The one that says “we like what we like and what we like is Porsche.” Just how the kids in those commercials proudly responded “we eat what we like,” we now echo similar sentiments: “there is no substitute.” We like Porsche; we love Porsche because there is no substitute.
Author
Leffingwell wrote his first book, American Muscle, in 1989 while still on staff at the Los Angeles Times. Since then, he has authored another 47 titles for Motorbooks, who we partner with for this series. Leffingwell is considered one of the top Porsche historians today, and he enjoys a close working relationship with Porsche AG. Leffingwell also wrote Porsche 911: 50 Years, a book we featured last year.
Porsche 70 Years: There Is No Substitute is available through Amazon and Motorbooks.
Porsche 70 Years Gallery

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