One Thousand Miles and Counting: Fusion Hybrid Breaks 1,000 Miles on Single Tank, Presses on

WASHINGTON, April 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/  The Ford Fusion Hybrid team has achieved more than 1,000 miles -- over
47 continuous hours -- on a single tank of gas, raising funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

-- Passing the 1,000 mile mark at 9:08 a.m. this morning, the team will continue as their unmodified, regular production Fusion Hybrid has nearly one-third of a tank of fuel remaining.

-- The most fuel-efficient, mid-sized sedan in America -- the Fusion Hybrid -- driven by a team of Ford hybrid engineers, a fuel efficiency
expert and a NASCAR star, achieved more than 80 miles per gallon using Eco-Driving techniques.

At 9:08 a.m. this morning, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid team hit the 1,000-mile mark on a single tank of gas, and is continuing its ultimate fuel-efficiency challenge with nearly one-third of a tank of fuel remaining.

The 1,000-mile mark was achieved with the Fusion Hybrid 1,000-Mile Challenge team leader and NASCAR driver, Carl Edwards, behind the wheel. Other team members include world-record breaking hypermiler Wayne Gerdes and several Ford hybrid engineers.

The 1,000-Mile Challenge started at 8:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, from Mount Vernon, Va., and is expected to end on Tuesday, April 28 in Washington, D.C.

A regular production version of the Fusion Hybrid -- the most fuel efficient mid-sized sedan in America -- delivered over 80 miles per gallon over the course of 47 hours of continuous driving. The team will continue to drive until the fuel tank is depleted.

The vehicle is being put to the test to demonstrate Ford's commitment to be the best, or amongst the best, in fuel economy in every vehicle segment in which it competes and to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in the process.

As part of the event, the team is conducting clinics for media and customers in the Fusion Hybrid, providing interviews and vehicle demonstrations on how simple techniques can make a significant difference to real world fuel economy numbers. The team also is uploading regular images and video of the challenge to YouTube, Flickr, Facebook, Twitter, and www.media.ford.com.

Mileage-maximizing techniques that the Ford team used and recommend to consumers include:

-- Slowing down and maintaining even throttle pressure;
-- Gradually accelerating and smoothly braking;
-- Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and anticipating traffic conditions;
-- Coasting up to red lights and stop signs to avoid fuel waste and brake wear;
-- Minimize use of heater and air conditioning to reduce the load on the engine;
-- Close windows at high speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag;
-- Applying the "Pulse and Glide" technique while maintaining the flow of traffic;

-- Minimize excessive engine workload by using the vehicle's kinetic forward motion to climb hills, and use downhill momentum to build speed; and
-- Avoiding bumps and potholes that can reduce momentum

Source: Ford Motor Company

I know this blog is all about Hybrid Cars, Trucks, and even SUV's, but this was so cool I just had to post it here. Check out this press release for an electric bike! They only plan on making 240 so jump on this quick if you want one.

EMS Teams With MATRA for the Rebirth of a Legend: The Limited Edition TidalForce(TM) M-750 x2.0 Electric Bike

DULLES, Va., April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Electric Motion Systems, LLC (EMS), designer of the E+ Electric Bike, has teamed with MATRA Manufacturing & Services, the French Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) company, to update a legend -- the TidalForce(TM) M-750 electric bike. In a Limited Edition of just 240 units, each with the E+ 1000 watt advanced electric propulsion system and upgraded components throughout, EMS and MATRA have created the most powerful, rugged, and best all-around electric bike yet: the TidalForce(TM) M-750 x2.0.

The TidalForce(TM) M-750 electric bike was originally developed for military and law enforcement applications and used the DARPA approved Montague Paratrooper(R) folding frame. The Limited Edition x2.0 is built on the last batch of 240 of these original, new M-750 frames. These are being made available to US customers by MATRA in collaboration with EMS.

Each has been upgraded with Electric Motion Systems' E+ 1000 watt propulsion system, the US industry's most advanced and powerful. Off road top speed reaches 30+ mph and range on a single charge is 25 - 28 miles, using the electric power only. All E+ advanced propulsion system features are available on the x2.0 -- 9 forward power modes, 9 resistance (exercise) modes, cruise control, anti-theft, etc.

Each of these features along with a speedometer, odometer, and battery state of charge are easily accessible through the EMS advanced LCD display mounted on the bike's handlebar. Front hub mounting of the battery and rear hub mounting of the motor maintain the look and feel of a bicycle, and provide a very low center of gravity for high stability. Every bicycle component of the original M-750 has been examined. Improvements include RockShox Tora 302 Forks, Shimano XTR brakes, FSA Gossamer 30/38/52 tooth crank set, Crane Creek Thudbuster ST seat suspension, WTB Speed-V Seat, in addition to many other component upgrades and components.

The result is a truly amazing looking electric vehicle with exceptional performance and quality. Powerful, rugged, safe -- an amazing electric bike and an amazing e-biking experience.

"Since the founding of EMS in 2005, EMS and MATRA have collaborated on numerous projects," said Sunil Gupta, EMS Product Development Manager. "The most recent was to develop this Limited Edition of the legendary TidalForce M-750, based on 240 of the original M-750 frames. It was wonderful working with our friends from MATRA on this project -- the second generation of a legend. We are very proud of the result and honored to offer this Limited Edition in the US under the TidalForce brand."

"MATRA is very proud of the TidalForce brand," said Jacques Bonneville, MATRA Executive Vice President, Worldwide Marketing. "The M-750 is a central part of that heritage. We believe it is fitting that these 240 original units find their home in the USA. Our friends at EMS have done a wonderful job in bringing them to life. We are very happy to see TidalForce back in the US with such a fine product offering. We look forward to further new and exciting TidalForce offerings in the US with our friends at EMS."

The new TidalForce(TM) M-750 x2.0 is limited to 240 units. Each unit is numbered and will include the owner's name engraved for a truly one-of-a-kind personalized x2.0.

EMS expects the x2.0 to be well-received by both TidalForce and e-bike enthusiasts, and anticipates this limited edition will be sold out quickly. For more information visit EMS' website at www.epluselectricbike.com or call 877-824-5339.

TidalForce(TM) is a registered trademark of MATRA Manufacturing & Services, SAS. Used with permission. All rights reserved.

Source: Electric Motion Systems, LLC

Celebrates the Future of Green Vehicles for Earth Day

In this year's special Earth Day issue, AutoWeek editors take a look at the latest vehicles, including a star of the Geneva motor show, the Giugiaro Namir. DETROIT, April 15 /PRNewswire/ -- AutoWeek published its first issue devoted entirely to the subject of "green" automobiles 19 years ago. Today, AutoWeek remains the automotive authority, continuing this legacy with its special Earth Day issue on April 20, 2009. The special issue includes coverage of Italdesign-Giugiaro's Namir, as well as first drives of the Chevrolet Cruze, Honda FCX Clarity, and the All-New Toyota Prius.

"The automotive industry is gearing up for a greener tomorrow, releasing several alternatives to reduce our carbon footprint," said Dutch Mandel, editor and associate publisher of AutoWeek. "People need to be educated regarding the various green choices entering the market, their costs and long-term affects. Our Earth Day special issue provides them with the latest information on what's out there."

The April 20, 2009, issue includes:

Green Means Go

One of the stars of this year's Geneva motor show, the Namir points the way to a responsible generation's supercar -- and sets out to prove the technology for its mass production cars, too. Italdesign-Giugiaro creates the Frazer-Nash Namir, a series hybrid that can top 187 mph and produces only a small amount of carbon emissions.

Focused on the Future

A look inside four Southern California companies that are on the cutting edge of what could become a major electric-car industry. There are research houses staffed by PhDs, small shops converting hybrids into plug-in hybrids and working garages winding electric motors, AutoWeek gives you an in-depth look into each of them.

Hydrogen Hang-Up

Honda's FCX Clarity is state-of-the-art, but where and how do you get all of the hydrogen needed to power the car? AutoWeek spends the better part of a week in the hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle and we have to say, it is leaps and bounds beyond the science experiments that represented the first few rounds of fuel cells we remember from 20 or so years ago.

AutoWeek is committed to the green movement as it continues its online coverage year-round. More information, as well as information on how to obtain a copy of this year's Earth Day issue, is available at autoweek.com.

Source: AutoWeek

Ford to Showcase Hybrids, Powertrain Solutions at 2009 SAE World Congress

DEARBORN, Mich., April 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- EcoBoost engine technology, the hybrid system that led the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid to best-in- class 41 highway mpg and Ford's aggressive electrification plan will be key topics of discussion during the 2009 Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) World Congress on April 20-23. This year's conference theme: "Racing to Green Mobility."

Ford engineers, researchers and academia will present more than 70 papers during the conference. Ford also is offering up the expertise of Dr. Gerhard Schmidt, chief technical officer and vice president of Ford Research and Advanced Engineering; and Sherif Marakby, chief engineer, Ford Global Hybrid Engineering; for interactive discussions on powertrain technology solutions.

Schmidt will share his insights on how to develop a sustainable global plug-and-play powertrain platform during the "Future Powertrain Technology Solutions - 2015 and Beyond" panel on April 21.

The SAE also will honor Schmidt on April 21 as the 2009 winner of the organization's all-new Franz F. Pischinger Powertrain Innovation Award.

"As a former Ph.D. student of Professor Pischinger, this award is particularly meaningful to me," said Schmidt. "This award truly recognizes the team of talented people I've been honored to work beside throughout my career."

Ford's Marakby will speak to trends in consumer hybrid purchase considerations during the "Making Green Cool While Staying in the Black" panel discussion on April 21. Ford's innovative SmartGauge with EcoGuide digital instrument cluster will be illustrated as a perfect example of cool-factor hybrid technology.

"What we are discovering is that the notion of a hybrid and its outstanding fuel economy is what may draw the consumer to the showroom, but it's the cool factor - the HMI displays, the next-generation navigation system, Ford SYNC functionality - that is a significant dynamic in the customer purchase decision," said Marakby.

On April 22, Marakby will lead a more technical discussion on full hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles as a participant in the "Which Hybrid Concepts Will Rise to the Top? The Race to the Marketplace" panel.

Technologies on Tap

Ford is using this year's SAE World Congress to showcase a wide spectrum of powertrain advancements, including the development of more efficient lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery systems, which will power the company's future battery electric, hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles slated for introduction in 2010 through 2012.

Ford's engine combustion team also will present a number of papers related to Ford's direct injection, turbocharged EcoBoost gasoline engine technology. EcoBoost delivers up to 20 percent better fuel economy than traditional naturally-aspirated engines and reduces CO2 emissions up to 15 percent.

Paul Mascarenas, vice president of engineering for Global Product Development, will highlight the part played by vehicle weight - as well as aerodynamics, materials, and electrical loads - in total energy use of a vehicle during the "Total Vehicle Energy Use Management" panel discussion on April 22.

"Improving fuel economy involves optimizing every aspect of a vehicle's energy consumption, including aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance and electrical loads. These actions, coupled with state-of-the-art powertrain technologies, can be seen in many of our newly-launched vehicles," said Mascarenas, who will act as the session moderator.

Source: Ford Motor Company

Ford's EcoBoost Engine In Action: The spray pattern, which comes from six pinhole-like openings in the injector, is carefully calibrated to optimize fuel burn. The cleaner combustion results in faster starts and lower emissions. (1/11/09)

Auto Show Features Latest Concept Cars, Electric Vehicles, Hybrids, Showroom-Ready Cars, Trucks and More

NEW YORK, April 2 /PRNewswire/ -- This year's amazing new cars and trucks include state-of-the-art safety innovations, impressive fuel efficiency developments, and radical drive train technology advancements as well as cutting-edge design. They include showroom ready vehicles and concept cars that designers have spent months, sometimes years, perfecting. So if you're looking for a small car that makes a big impression, something fun, fast and frugal, or you want to get plugged into a hybrid or electric vehicle, there is no better place to research your next new car or truck than the 2009 New York International Automobile Show. The Show opens to the public on Friday, April 10th through April 19th at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan.

"Many of this year's models have combined futuristic design with technologically advanced drive-trains to produce vehicles that are totally unique in the way they look and drive," said show president, Mark Schienberg. "Others use today's most fuel efficient engines in vehicle designs that don't conform to any vehicle style known today, creating new segments that will be the vehicles of tomorrow," Schienberg added.

Here's a look at some of this year's amazing new cars and trucks:

Electrics & Hybrids

[Electric] MINI E: The all-electric MINI E's unique engine and transmission arrangement powers the MINI E seamlessly to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds. Based on the current MINI, the E is a two-seater as the space normally inhabited by rear passengers is reserved for a lithium-ion battery. The E's lithium-ion battery can be plugged into all standard power outlets and the E has a range of 156 miles under ideal driving conditions.

[Hybrid] LEXUS HS 250h: The 2010 Lexus HS 250h is the world's first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle and the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the Lexus lineup. It will also be the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design. Equipped with Lexus' first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower.

[Electric] Fisker Karma: The Fisker Karma gets an average 100mpg, can go 0-60 in about 6 seconds and has a top speed of 125mph. Its Lithium-ion batteries will power the car for 50 miles after being fully charged from any 110 or 220v outlet. After 50 miles, a generator powered by a small gasoline engine provides the energy needed to turn the Karma's two electric motors.

[Hybrid] Ford Fusion Hybrid: The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid includes new aerodynamic enhancements and underbody shields to help boost Fusion's fuel economy to a class-leading 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Fusion Hybrid also debuts Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster that helps coach drivers on how to optimize the fuel efficiency of their vehicles.

[Hybrid] Honda Insight: The all-new distinctively styled, five-passenger, five-door Honda Insight is powered by an Integrated Motor Assist(TM) (IMA(TM)) system comprised of a 1.3-liter i-VTEC(R) gasoline engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor that together contribute to an city/highway fuel economy rating of 40/43 miles per gallon . The Insight features the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist(TM)), an innovation that can further enhance efficient vehicle operation while providing feedback related to individual driving styles. The all-new Insight has a suggested retail price (MSRP) of $19,800 for the LX model.

[Electric] Chevrolet Volt: Chevy Volt is designed to move more than 75 percent of America's daily commuters without a single drop of gas. That means for someone who drives less than 40 miles a day, Chevy Volt will use zero gasoline and produce zero emissions. Unlike traditional electric cars, the Volt has an innovative propulsion system that takes you beyond the power of the battery. It will use a lithium-ion battery with a gasoline-powered, range-extending engine that drives a generator to provide electric power when you drive beyond the 40-mile battery range. Inside, the Volt offers the space, comfort, convenience and safety features that customers expect in a four-passenger sedan.

[Hybrid] Toyota Prius: The new generation Prius is bigger, more powerful yet more economical than the model it replaces making it the most fuel efficient and aerodynamic car available in the US. With a combined 50 mpg, the Prius is available with high-tech features that include a solar-powered ventilation system, remote a/c, Lane Keep Assist, Intelligent Parking Assist, and three driving modes including electric-only.

Concept Cars

Cadillac Converj: The Cadillac Converj was designed to give a glimpse at the potential of electric propulsion in a luxury vehicle. The well-appointed grand touring coupe features GM's electric propulsion technology -- called Voltec -- that can get up to 40 miles of gas- and emissions-free electric driving with extended-range capability of hundreds of miles. When the battery's energy is low, the Converj seamlessly switches to extended-range mode. During this secondary level of operation, electricity needed to power the vehicle is created on-board by a flex-fuel-powered engine.

Chrysler 200C EV: The all-new Chrysler 200C EV concept is capable of driving up to 40 miles on battery-only power, but a small gasoline engine and integrated electric generator that produces electricity extends its driving range to 400 miles. On the inside, the 200C EV's interior is free of switches and levers. All vehicle functions, settings and u-connect features are managed via a panoramic multimedia touch screen, a passenger-dedicated "techno-leaf" and a stowable tablet PC.

Suzuki SXForce: Reinforcing the link between the company's rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, Suzuki introduces the SXForce, a sportbike-inspired concept car. The fully drivable, track-tested 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged SX4 Sport concept includes a fully tuned performance suspension system, F1-style outlet gills to help underhood air flow, tailored rear bodywork with carbon fiber diffuser, Carbontrix rear wing, Tein coilover suspension height and damper setup, and reinforced structure to further enhance rigidity for optimal handling.

Lincoln C concept: Designed with today's upscale, urban consumer in mind, the Lincoln C concept brings the luxury of a large Lincoln to a smaller, more efficient C-sized car. The C is powered by a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine and an all-new dry, dual-clutch PowerShift six-speed transmission which helps it achieve 43 mpg on the highway, while offering up an impressive 180 horsepower.

Dodge Circuit EV: This brand new all-electric sports car concept from Dodge delivers high performance with zero gasoline consumption, zero tailpipe emissions and 150-200 mile driving range. Propelled by a completely electric drivetrain, the Dodge Circuit EV races from 0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds and has a top speed of more than 120 mph. The Circuit EV utilizes three powertrain components, including a 200 kW (268 horsepower) electric motor to drive the wheels, an advanced lithium-ion battery system to power the electric-drive motor, and a controller that manages energy flow.

Today's Newest Cars & Trucks

Buick LaCrosse: Redesigned from the ground up, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse features sculpted styling, premium interior materials with cool blue ambient lighting, and responsive performance. The LaCrosse also features all wheel drive and QuietTuning, and intelligent technologies that work to deliver a 360-degree field of vision behind the steering wheel including a head-up display in the windshield, and a Side Blind Zone alert system.

Cadillac SRX: The new SRX is a mid-size luxury crossover featuring a completely new design and more-efficient, high-technology engine choices. It is powered by a new 3.0L direct injected V-6 engine or a 2.8L turbocharged V-6. Direct injection enables a 25-percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. Performance and safety are enhanced by an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.

BMW 7 Series: The fifth generation BMW 7 Series is powered by a 4.4-liter, twin-turbocharged 400hp V-8 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The new 7 has an array of innovative driver-assistance options such as Active Cruise Control with new stop-and-go capability; Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Head-up Display, High Beam Assistant and BMW Night Vision with new Pedestrian Detection.

Cadillac CTS Wagon: The all-new CTS Sport Wagon is intended to connect with the changing priorities of luxury consumers by delivering significant increases in functionality. The CTS is about the same size as the CTS sport sedan, although it nearly doubles its carrying capacity, with a generous cargo area of 25 cubic feet behind the rear seats.

Nissan Cube: The fashionable and functional new 1.8-liter Nissan cube provides the utility and dependability consumers expect in a small car including wide doors, large greenhouse with wraparound rear window, and a refrigerator-style rear door combined with a roomy five passenger interior.

Ford Taurus: Ford's new flagship, the 2010 Taurus, will start at $25,995 and features an impressive suite of technologies never before offered in the non-premium large car segment including Cross Traffic Alert, Collision Warning, MyKey(TM) parental programmability, EasyFuel(TM) capless refueling, SecuriCode(TM) Keyless Entry, Ford SYNC(R) and Voice-Activated Navigation with SIRIUS(R) Travel Link(TM). Other features new to Taurus include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS(TM)), Rain-Sensing Wipers and Intelligent Access with Push Button Start.

Lincoln MKT: The all-new Lincoln MKT is a three-row tourer that delivers an impressive blend of fuel economy, performance, technology and spaciousness. The MKT includes many new technologies including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist, and Blind Spot monitoring.

Nissan 370Z: The newly redesigned Nissan 370Z is more refined, more powerful, and even better handling. Powered by a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), the new Z also features a new 7-speed automatic transmission, and a world's first synchronized downshift rev matching system for the 6-speed manual transmission.

Chevrolet Camaro: The 2010 Camaro is a heritage-inspired sports car for the 21st century, combining muscle car looks and performance with advanced technology and surprising efficiency -- including 26-mpg estimated highway fuel economy. The rear-wheel-drive Camaro comes with either a V6 or V8 direct injection engine with Active Fuel Management to enable a satisfying balance of exhilarating performance and good fuel economy.

Infiniti G Convertible: The first-ever Infiniti G Convertible is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 325 horsepower engine and features a three-piece folding steel top and a special convertible-focused interior, which features a unique Bose(R) Open Air Sound System that dynamically changes equalization based on outside noise, vehicle speed, and top position.

Volvo XC60: The new XC60 is a crossover vehicle is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine and features a unique system called City Safety which can help the driver avoid low speed collisions when driving in slow moving, stop and go traffic. The laser-based technology continually monitors the area in front of the vehicle and can brake automatically to help avoid or mitigate a collision.

KIA Soul: The fun all-new five-passenger Kia Soul which starts at $13,995 (including delivery) is available in four trims: Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport and features big-car standard and optional equipment such as keyless entry remote, solar glass, and power sunroof. It is powered by either a four-cylinder 1.6-liter or a 2.0-liter engine producing 122 and 142 horsepower respectively.

Audi Q5: The all-new Q5 SUV with its sporty proportions and muscular stance features a 3.2 V6 FSI direct injection engine, quattro(R) all wheel drive, and a six speed Tiptronic transmission, and achieves city fuel economy of 18 mpg with 23 mpg highway.

Dodge Challenger R/T Classic: The Dodge Challenger R/T Classic delivers a menacing look with its dual throwback A-line body-side R/T stripes, 'Challenger' fender badging in classic script, large 20-inch polished-chrome heritage wheels, classic egg-crate grille with heritage 'R/T' badge, body-color rear spoiler and chromed fuel-filler door. Performance comes from a 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine under a long, raised performance hood with functional hood scoops to increase engine cooling.

Mercedes Benz E-Class and E-Coupe: With the new E-Class and E-Coupe, Mercedes-Benz combines safety, comfort and environmental compatibility with 20 new technical developments including innovations for safe driving such as Attention Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking, which is activated when there is acute danger of a collision. The new E-Class models are also the first automobiles in the world with headlamps that adapt to the traffic situation and respond automatically to avoid dazzling other drivers.

Audi A5 convertible: The new A5 Cabriolet is a four-seat open top Audi that has a classic fabric top -- which endows it with a striking silhouette -- which opens in 15 seconds. An acoustic top, neck-level heating and leather seats coated with a special layer to reduce solar heating are just some of the features of the sporty, elegant new A5 model.

Bentley Continental Supersports: The Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. The extreme Bentley, a muscular two-seater that delivers supercar performance and a highly focused driving experience, is also the first Bentley capable of running on both gasoline and biofuel. With 621 bhp and new 'Quickshift' transmission that halves shift times, the Supersports sets new performance benchmarks for Bentley. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds onto a top speed of 204 mph.

MAZDASPEED3: The MAZDASPEED3 sport compact pushes Mazda design further and its exciting driving performance perfectly represents Mazda's Zoom-Zoom spirit. Carrying forward the MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine, Mazda3 MPS builds on the popularity and recognition of the previous model. It evolves the driving experience to an entirely new level of quality and pleasure with its emotional design and exhilarating performance.

Porsche 911 GT3: The lightweight 435-horsepower next generation 911 GT3 features a larger 3.8-liter boxer six-cylinder engine with an enhanced VarioCam system, larger yet lighter brakes, and new one-piece centerlock wheels, all of which boost performance over the previous model. Technical developments like innovative dynamic engine mounts, updated aerodynamics that increase downforce by over 100% and a special version of the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system all help make this latest iteration the most dynamic 911 GT3 to date.

Ford Shelby GT500: The most-distinctive model of the new 2010 Mustang lineup, the 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine that produces 540 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. The Mustangs aggressive new exterior design features new functional details, such as the hood extractor to remove heat from the engine and "Gurney Flap" spoiler to tune rear downforce.

Jaguar XFR and XKR: Jaguar's new XFR and XKR models deliver a superb balance of high performance, dynamic ability and refinement. Both models are powered by an all-new supercharged 5.0-liter 510bhp V8 with acceleration from 0-60mph in just 4.7 seconds and 4.6 seconds respectively.

Volkswagen GTI: The new sixth-generation, performance-based Volkswagen GTI hatchback is powered by an advanced new TSI engine, available linked to either a 6-speed manual or DSG gearbox. With the new GTI, VW has increased the quality and comfort level to new heights. The GTI will be available in three- and five-door body styles. Visual details include a new front bumper, vertically stacked foglamps and an altered grille with classic GTI touches.

Source: New York International Auto Show