HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 

Enjoy our year-end issue, and we'll see you back here 

on January 11, 2023!

BEST OF ON THE TABLE 2022

Editor's Note: Any news over the holiday break will be posted at the end of this column! -WG

JANUARY 5

(Mercedes-Benz images)
HOW GREEN IS YOUR VALLEY? The Mercedes-Benz VISION EQXX is designed to be a road-legal research prototype that is part of a mission by the manufacturer to break through technological barriers and lift energy efficiency to new heights. The Mercedes-Benz VISION EQXX is "a software-defined research prototype engineered by women and men with the creativity, ingenuity and determination to deliver one of the planet's most efficient cars – in every respect," according to Mercedes-Benz PR minions. Calling it "an efficiency masterpiece" and based on internal digital simulations in real-life traffic conditions, the VISION EQXX will be capable of exceeding 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) on a single charge with an energy consumption of less than 10 kWh per 100 kilometers (efficiency of more than 6 miles per kWh). It has an aerodynamic drag coefficient of cd  0.175; a pioneering team of Mercedes-Benz engineers worked with High Performance Powertrains (HPP) and Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix (MGP) to engineer a highly efficient and compact electric drivetrain and lightweight battery case; ultra-thin solar roof panels feed the battery system for up to 25 km of extra range. The VISION EQXX went from clean sheet to on-the-road in just 18 months. 

JANUARY 12 

JANUARY 26 

(Ford images)
RIDE 'EM OUT! Ford has unveiled the all-new 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor, designed and engineered by Ford Performance "to be the world’s first Ultra4 Racing-inspired SUV," according to Ford PR minions, and "is capable of highway-speed desert-dune conquering and Baja rock-crawling." Bronco Raptor features extreme "Built Wild" capability and durability, according to Ford, with an exclusive twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 targeted to deliver more than 400HP, a Raptor HOSS 4.0 race-ready suspension system, a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame, and standard 37-inch all-terrain tires. At 9.8 inches wider than a base Bronco four-door for more confident high-speed cornering, Bronco Raptor "epitomizes extreme Built Wild design with race-inspired features inside and out, accented by Raptor-family signature cues." The limited-production Bronco Raptor will be available next summer starting at $68,500, which is double the price of the base Bronco (which no one orders). Watch a video here. Editor-in-Chief's Note: I've been seeing Bronco Raptor prototypes around town for a while now. Saying the Raptor has a distinctive presence on the road is an understatement. It is unmistakable the instant you see one, and it is the most most aggressive off-road monster to date from a mainstream auto manufacturer. If it's the kind of vehicle that floats your boat, you're going to be extremely happy to get your hands on one. -PMD

FEBRUARY 9

(Photos copyright and courtesy of Gooding & Company. Images by Mathieu Heurtault.)
Editor-in-Chief's Note: As you know, we're not much into the auction "thing" around here. Too often greed-fests that artificially inflate prices, it's a dimension to the enthusiast car culture that continues to be a major disappointment. That said, occasionally special machines come up for auction that are difficult to ignore, like the two machines here. -PMD 
Gooding & Company’s upcoming Amelia Island Auction has unveiled two additional star consignments, led by the incredible Figoni et Falaschi-bodied 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupe (above). Considered by many to be one of the most enduringly beautiful automobiles of all time, the creation of the Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Goutte d’Eau, or Teardrop, was born out of a collaboration between Anthony Lago and Joseph Figoni, two Italian-born visionaries who became fixtures in the vibrant Parisian automotive scene throughout the late 1930s. The T150-C-SS was sold as a bare chassis and priced in the same realm as the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 and Bugatti Type 57S. Between 1937 and 1939, Talbot-Lago produced an extremely limited number of these chassis, which were bodied by a variety of coachbuilders. The auction house will also offer a Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance^® First in Class-winning 1954 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback (below), widely considered to be one of the most beautifully designed and proportioned automobiles of the postwar era.

FEBRUARY 16 

(Chevrolet)

Chevrolet's ad "New Generation" was a re-creation of the iconic intro sequence for the Sopranos, this time featuring Tony's daughter, Meadow (Jamie-Lynn Sigler), behind the wheel for the drive through the gritty opening scenes. She's driving the all-electric Silverado, and the spot ends with her pulling up to greet her brother A.J. (Robert Iler) at the diner from the Sopranos finale. Watch it here. Editor's Note: That theme music and opening sequence are so cemented into pop culture at this point, it's nearly impossible not to stick with this spot and see where it's going. This spot is a nice update to the original, and seeing Meadow and A.J. again feels like an authentic reunion, even though we all know this is advertising! -WG

(gm)

GM weighed in with "Dr. EV-il" featuring Austin Powers' Dr. Evil, along with the entire gang from the movie. They convince Dr. EV-il that going all-EV with GM's Ultium platform will help save the world so that he can then take over the world. Watch it here. This :90 version, is much funnier than the :60 that ran on the game. Editor's Note: If you're an Austin Powers fan, this was a fun spot - makes you want a movie sequel! -WG

FEBRUARY 23

.

MARCH 2 

CARLOS TAVARES - CEO OF STELLANTIS - HAD A MESSAGE FOR SUPPLIERS: DROP DEAD. The CEO expected Stellantis suppliers to eat costs in order to help bring next-gen BEVs to market. Auto manufacturer treatment of their suppliers is legendary for its capriciousness. When things are going well, suppliers are called "partners" and everything is is all happy-dappy. But when things go wrong, suppliers are the first to get thrown under the bus. These two factions have had an acrimonious relationship almost since the industry began. Manufacturers believe that suppliers are something to be used - for ideas and whatever else they can bring to the table. Manufacturer thinking is also dominated by a strong True North of "Not Invented Here," which means that no matter how good a supplier's idea is, a manufacturer can do it better and cheaper. The reality for most manufacturers, of course, is that they can't. In fact, it usually costs twice as much and takes twice as long to get produced when they get their hands on it. From the opposite perspective, suppliers believe that they are constantly bringing breakthrough ideas to the manufacturers, ideas that are either ignored, or even worse, bid out to competitors to get a better deal. As you can imagine, this is infuriating and something that Chrysler - under Sergio's reign - did with impunity. Editor-in-Chief's Note: To have Tavares insist that suppliers must help bear the cost of BEV development was rich. What it really meant is something like this: "We will beat you down to the nubs on price and when we're finished doing that, you can take another 20 percent off the total because we can demand it. And after that, when all is said and done, you can eat any profit you might have squirreled away and give it back to us to help cut our BEV development costs." Far from a savior, as some auto-journos refer to him, Tavares is another in a long line of CEOs who believe it's their right to screw over suppliers. It is an ugly Shit Show from every angle, and a giant bowl of Not Good for suppliers.-PMD

MARCH 9 

(VW Images)
And here it is: The all-electric, rear-wheel-drive, 2024 VW ID.Buzz and ID.Buzz Cargo. The first versions will come to the European market with 82 kWh battery powering a 201HP electric motor with maximum torque of 229 lb-ft. Both models in the ID. Buzz range "hark back to the iconic Microbus design and formula of maximum space on a small footprint," according to VW PR minions. Sustainability measures include replacing leather with non-animal material, incorporating recycled materials, and using organically-based paint. We were going to download a bunch of info here, but since European models go on sale this year, with a long-wheelbase passenger model to go on sale in the North American market in 2024, we will wait until the information for the U.S. version arrives. 

MARCH 16 

(SUPER73 images)

APRIL 6

(David Brown Automotive images)
IT'S TURNED UP TO "11." David Brown Automotive unveiled a limited-edition Mini Remastered Marshall Edition in collaboration with iconic audio equipment company, Marshall Amplification. Conceived to commemorate Marshall Amplification’s 60th anniversary, just 60 examples of these ultra-exclusive Mini Remastered models will be built in both right- and left-hand versions. Each Mini Remastered Marshall Edition will be distinguished from core Mini Remastered examples by unique color, materials and finishes, inspired by the styling of Marshall’s iconic products, and will also be fitted with a number of unique touches that reflect the rich heritage of the iconic audio brand. Based on the highly popular Mini Remastered model, which reimagines the diminutive British motoring icon for the 21st century, Mini Remastered Marshall Edition will - as with all David Brown Automotive Mini Remastered iterations - be painstakingly handcrafted, enhanced with a sumptuous interior and comprehensively remastered mechanicals featuring a 1,330cc A-series engine and a 5-speed manual gearbox, all from David Brown Automotive’s state-of-the-art facility in Silverstone, UK. Marshall and David Brown Automotive will each donate a portion of the proceeds from each sale to the Music Venue Trust, a charity that supports independent concert venues throughout the UK, helping them withstand the damage caused by of the coronavirus pandemic, and emerge from the other side. 

APRIL 13 

(Thornly Kelham Images)
YOU KNOW YOU WANT ONE. HELL, WE ALL WANT ONE. Thornley Kelham has revealed the first new project in its bespoke ‘European’ program: The Jaguar XK European. The ‘European’ program "weaves together concours-quality restoration skills, industry-leading design and motorsport-grounded engineering and mechanical expertise to reimagine key automotive icons from some of Europe’s leading brands," according to TK PR minions. Credentials? The XK European has been reinterpreted inside and out by ex-McLaren designer (P1, 720S) Paul Howse. An all-new lightweight alloy body is combined with a fuel injected 340HP 3.8-litre XK engine, redesigned suspension and gearbox, uprated brakes and electrics to deliver modern levels of performance, and move the original XK experience into the 21st century. How much work is involved? The restoration and modification process took around 5000 hours. Most of the work is carried out in-house by Thornley Kelham, together with a small number of trusted and talented partners. Howse’s vision celebrates the original beautifully aerodynamic lines in a way that remains true to the car’s original intentions, echoing the kind of work applied to the E-Type Lightweight. The first major task was to lower the roofline so that the proportions become more elegant and purposeful. The next was to add some curvature to the sides; all the body sections now have an acceleration to them which adds sculpture and muscle but also lightness. The arches are wider both at the front and more significantly at the rear with wider alloy wire wheels filling them out nicely, giving that ‘road racer‘ stance. The brightwork was also removed and instead a subtle crease was introduced down the bonnet which follows the split screen into the roof and washes out over the roof, which is more smoothly integrated into the overall form, as are the rear arches. At the rear, the tail now sweeps up to create a more teardrop form. The rear lamps are nestled into the bodywork and the headlights have had the chrome bezels removed, cleaning up the appearance. Other improvements? A completely revised and detailed interior including new electronic instrumentation, electric windows and a discreet rollcage. Air-conditioning, power steering, Bluetooth connectivity and a number of in-car entertainment options ensure that every European will combine the thrill of a classic with the convenience and everyday drivability of a modern car. More? The Jaguar XK 3.8-litre straight-six engine is thoroughly re-engineered to deliver the performance akin to a modern sports car. The all-alloy engine is equipped with direct injection, a bespoke camshaft and rebored cylinders for either 300HP or 340HP depending on specification. Power is delivered through a redesigned five-speed manual transmission. The handling has been enhanced with a reconfigured suspension, employing double wishbones at the front, coilovers, tuned Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs. It’s a far more modern package than the original car, which featured basic leaf springs on the rear axle. In fact, the rear axle set up has been completely redesigned, and now incorporates a limited slip differential. Four-piston vented disc brakes equip each wheel. Development of the first Jaguar XK built to ‘European’ specification is already underway, with the first commission secured. Numbers will be strictly limited, with prices from £550,000 - plus donor car - depending on specification. Editor-in-Chief's Note: This thing is drop dead gorgeous. That is all. -PMD

APRIL 27 

THE EXCEPTIONAL CORVETTE.

By Peter M. DeLorenzo

Detroit. I have experienced many, many Corvettes over the decades, from concepts and street machines, to full-on racing machines. Each and every one was different and left a mark, and though some production machines were sorely lacking - the mid-to-late-70s in particular - the gradual progression of technology and performance for the Corvette has been notable, particularly with the seventh generation. But the latest Corvette - the eighth generation - is something else altogether, because it flourishes in a dimension previously unimaginable for America's sports car. It's not just the fact that it's the first mid-engined Corvette, which has always been the Holy Grail for Corvette enthusiasts. It's because the new Corvette achieves a level of sophistication and overall performance that is truly exceptional. 

After driving countless machines of every stripe over the years, I can pretty much tell a car's character in the first couple of miles. And the Corvette grabbed my attention right from the start. That this machine has been finely executed down to the last detail comes through almost immediately, and as I accumulated the miles, it only got better. This Corvette excels at all the proper enthusiast touch points: steering, braking, the remarkable handling and scintillating high-performance - and that ever-elusive "feel" - to such a degree that it isn't even fair to compare it to previous generations because, as I mentioned, this new generation Corvette lives in a dimension never before occupied by this sports car. 

A few words about the exterior and interior design of the Corvette, because it's not perfect. (Although I think the color combination is stellar. Would I get tired of the Morello Red over time? I'll never know.) My first assessment of the car hasn't changed since its introduction a couple of years ago. I like 85 percent of the design: the front, 3/4 front and profile. But the direct rear view still says "less than" to me. It's busy, fussy and inelegant. If I was doing a refresh of the Corvette, I would start there. As for the interior, the driver-focused elements of the cockpit are all good, which is critical, but the rest of the interior needs a rethink as well. The center spine with all of the extra interior controls seems to be trying too hard, and the fact that it "walls-off" the rest of the interior seems "less than" as well. And the various swoops and shapes on the top of the dash seem to be unnecessary overkill. 

But those critical words about the exterior and interior design don't dissuade me from my assessment of the Corvette: It is truly an exceptional machine and one of the most seductive combinations of power and overall performance that money can buy. The eighth generation of the Corvette is very much a testament to the True Believers at GM who delivered a superlative automobile. For those enthusiasts out there who cling to their preconceived - and mostly negative - notions about the Corvette, that is certainly your prerogative and there is probably nothing I've said that will change your mind. But a word of caution: If you don't afford yourself the opportunity to experience the Corvette, you'll be missing out on one of the great driving machines ever built.


2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe 3LT. $72,850 Base Price; Price as tested: $83,770. Hypersonic Gray Metallic, Morello Red Dipped interior; 6.2-liter Direct-Injected V8 with 490HP, 465 lb-ft of torque; 8-speed dual clutch gearbox including manual and auto modes; Numerous interior features (too many to list); Front Lift Adjustable Height With Memory, $2260; Magnetic Selective Ride Control, $1895; 5 Trident Spoke Machined Face Spectra Gray Painted Aluminum Wheels (19" Front, 20" Rear), $1495; Performance Exhaust, $1195; Shadow Gray Exterior Accents, $995; Edge Red Painted Brake Calipers, $595; Composite Rockers, Black (dealer installed), $595; Front Splitter, Low Rear Spoiler, $595.

MAY 4

SPECTACULAR WOW.

By Peter M. DeLorenzo

Detroit. We've been on an "End of ICE Age" tour around here of late, with the best machines ever built by GM being made available to us. Last week it was the brilliant 2022 mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette, a sports car that defines "superlative automobile" by every measure, a truly exceptional machine that is one of the most seductive combinations of power and overall performance that money can buy. This week, it's the equally brilliant Cadillac CT5 V-Series Blackwing, a car that is, quite simply, the finest high-performance sedan ever built. Note I didn't say "one of" - because this machine defies comparisons. 

First of all, the fact that it is equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox is almost reason enough to celebrate its existence, but that is only the beginning. This machine is a true monster, with that 668HP supercharged V8 beckoning you to put your foot in it at every opportunity, which I did. Punching this machine, especially in 80 mph to 130+ mph freeway bursts - which put me hard back in my seat - became commonplace. So much so that I really had to restrain myself from getting into even more trouble, because the ferocious acceleration combined with the unforgettable sound of that heroic V8 is truly addictive. Kevin Cogan once famously said that driving an Indy car was like being "addicted to a drug they don't sell." Well, after having the opportunity to hammer a CT5 V-Series Blackwing for a week, I can kind of relate. It's that good.

And one more word about the sound of this incredible machine. I appreciate all of the effort going on right now in the auto industry with the development of advanced battery electric vehicles. It's an inexorable march to, well, I'm not exactly sure where, but everyone in this business is hell bent on getting there. But after driving the Cadillac CT5 V- Series Blackwing, I can safely say that there is no electric vehicle - or electric vehicle with synthesized sound - that can compare to the visceral sound of a high-performance V8. Or will compare, for that matter. I intend on enjoying the experience of a high-performance ICE V8 for as long as I possibly can. Because despite the eye-popping performance numbers generated by EVs, they will never compare to the thrilling aural appeal of a high-performance ICE machine. It's just not possible.

But, confining praise to the straight-line ferocity of the CT5-V Series Blackwing doesn't do it justice. The combination of that supercharged V8 - the throttle response is fantastic - the slick-shifting gearbox, the big-ass ceramic brakes and a chassis precisely fine-tuned to the last responsive detail, makes the CT5 V-Series Blackwing one of the most compelling high-performance machines I have ever driven. In fact, as much as I loved driving the Corvette last week, I have to say that this Cadillac is the one machine I would want, more than any other, to ride out the end of the ICE Age with. It is absolutely spectacular. Wow.

2022 Cadillac CT5 V-Series Blackwing. $83,995 Base Price; Price as tested: $108,615. Infrared Tintcoat, $1,225; Jet Black interior; Hand-Built 6.2-liter Direct-Injected, Variable Valve Timing, Supercharged V8 with 668HP, 659 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed manual gearbox; Quad-tip exhausts pipes; Rear-Wheel Drive; Brembo high-performance front (15.7") and rear (14.7") disc brakes; Electronic limited-slip rear differential; Performance Traction Management; Custom Launch Control; Adaptive Suspension; Adaptive Ride Control; High performance mesh front grilles; Aero rear decklid spoiler; All of the latest Cadillac electronic gizmos (too much to list); Carbon Ceramic 4-wheel disc brakes with cross-drilled rotors and bronze calipers, $9,000; Heated (automatic) steering wheel; Jet Black, Semi-Anline, heated and ventilated leather sport seats with Jet Black accents, custom quilting and carbon fiber front seat-backs, $6,090; Sueded Microfiber-Wrapped Trim Package with Carbon Fiber 1 Package, $4,100; Performance Data and Video Recorder, $1,600; 19" Aluminum Alloy wheels with Tech Bronze finish, $1,500; Parking Package with Rear Camera Mirror, Air Ionizer, Hands-free rear decklid release, Rear pedestrian alert, $710; Torch Red Seat Belts, $400; Destination Charge, $995.

MAY 11

0

ANOTHER ICE AGE ACE.

By Peter M. DeLorenzo

Detroit. After experiencing the sublime Chevrolet Corvette and the spectacular Cadillac CT5 V-Series Blackwing in back-to-back weeks, I expected a bit of a letdown with the CT4 V-Series Blackwing. I needn't have worried. The CT4 V-Series Blackwing is 263 lbs. lighter, 2.6" narrower and 7.3" shorter than the CT5 V-Series Blackwing. But it feels notably smaller. The look of this machine is crisp, restrained and functional, with aero details visible front, back and along the sides. And the wheels are wonderfully detailed up close. The feel of the CT4 V-Series Blackwing is direct, aggressive and lively. The steering, brakes and suspension work in remarkable harmony and this machine begs to be driven hard. It takes less than a 100 yards down the road after you set off for the personality of this machine to come out. In tuning the CT4 V-Series Blackwing, it's clear that the True Believers at GM who were responsible for this car put the emphasis on fun-to-drive. Yes, I know, what a deliciously quaint concept, but it's getting harder and harder to find these days. As for the 472HP, 3.6-liter Twin-Turbo V6, the throttle response is wonderfully immediate and the thrust factor is very high. There are no disappointments in that department. Well, except for maybe one very big exception. As good as the terrific Twin-Turbo V6 is in the CT4 V-Series Blackwing, it simply can't compare in sound and fury to the ferocious, supercharged 6.2-liter V8 monster lurking under the hood of the CT5 V-Series Blackwing. But that is as it should be, I suppose. After all, the V6-powered Blackwing comes in at around $30,000 less than the V8-powered Blackwing, but it certainly delivers a visceral, worthwhile driving experience all of its own. 

The last three weeks have been both revealing and rewarding. As I mentioned previously, I consider these three machines - Corvette Stingray, CT5 V-Series Blackwing and CT4 V-Series Blackwing - to be the finest cars GM has built to date. A Trifecta of Excellence, in fact. As I said last week, they are a testament to the True Believers - the men and women responsible for every single detail - GM’s “Best and Brightest” in every respect. Knowing that these men and women have moved on to the ultra-crucial BEV development projects percolating within GM gives me hope that what they're working on will result in more spectacular machines worth looking at, and more important, worth driving.
 

 

2022 Cadillac CT4 V-Series Blackwing. $58,995 Base Price; Price as tested: $76,560. Rift Metallic, $625; Jet Black interior with Jet Black accents; Rear-wheel drive; Cadillac exclusive 3.6-liter Direct-Injected, Variable Valve Timing, Twin-Turbo V6 with 472HP, 445 lb-ft of torque; 10-speed automatic gearbox, $2,275; Quad exhaust with dark tips; Brembo high-performance front and rear disc brakes with staggered 6-piston front calipers and 4-piston rear calipers; Blue brake calipers, $595; High-performance copper-free brake linings; Electronic limited-slip rear differential; Performance Traction Management; Custom Launch Control; High-performance adaptive suspension with Magnetic Ride Control; Rear differential cooler; 18" alloy wheels with polished/dark android finish; High-performance mesh front grilles; Ground Effects Aero with Aero rear decklid spoiler; All of the latest Cadillac electronic interior gizmos (too much to list); Driver Assist Package with Adaptive Cruise Control, enhanced automatic emergency braking and emergency rear braking, $900; Technology Package with air ionizer and head-up display, $725; Climate Package with ventilated driver and front passenger seats with power lumbar massage, $600; Heated (automatic) high-performance steering wheel; Jet Black interior with leather seating surfaces, Jet Black accents, Sueded microfiber trim package, $4,900; Carbon Fiber 1 Package, $4,100; Performance Data and Video Recorder, $1,600; Destination Charge, $995.

MAY 18

(Mercedes-Benz images)
RUDI'S RIDE. One of two ultra-rare, original 1955 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been auctioned for 135 million EUR to a private collector, making it the most valuable car of all time. The sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at an auction held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in cooperation with renowned auctioneer RM Sotheby's.The invitees were among selected Mercedes-Benz customers and international collectors of cars and art, who share the corporate values of Mercedes-Benz. The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe sold at auction was part of the non-public vehicle collection belonging to Mercedes-Benz Classic, comprising more than 1100 automobiles from the invention of the automobile in 1886, until today. Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, had this to say: "The private buyer has agreed that the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe will remain accessible for public display on special occasions, while the second original 300 SLR Coupe remains in company ownership and will continue to be displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart." 
The proceeds will be used to establish a worldwide "Mercedes-Benz Fund" that will provide educational and research scholarships in the areas of environmental science and decarbonization for young people. This icon of automotive history is an absolute rarity – one of just two prototypes built at the time. Named after its creator and chief engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, it is considered to be one of the finest examples of automotive engineering and design by automotive experts and enthusiasts worldwide. 
The special circumstances behind its creation, its unique design and its innovative technology have endowed the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe with a remarkable level of mystique that endures to this day. The design of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe set benchmarks that put it among the world's most significant automotive icons – not least on account of its distinctive "gullwing" doors. Added to this is the outstanding performance delivered by its thoroughbred racing technology. Together, both have secured the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe its acclaimed position in sports car mythology and a very special place in the hearts of Mercedes fans around the world. More information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is available in a web special. Editor-in-Chief's Note: Rudolph Uhlenhaut was an absolute legend. The Chief Engineer for Mercedes-Benz racing during that era, he would regularly take the Grand Prix and sports cars out in testing to see what the drivers were experiencing on the track. And he would not only match their lap times, but often go faster at racetracks around the world. And remember, this was the era when Mercedes-Benz had Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss - the best in the world at the time - as their team drivers. He was an incredible talent and a remarkably gifted engineer. And he drove his “Uhlenhaut Coupe” flat-out on the Autobahn on a regular basis well into his 80s. The price for the car is hard to comprehend, but the provenance is indisputable. A fantastic machine and incredible legacy. -PMD

JUNE 1

JUNE 22

The AE Song of the Week: (In honor of Sir Paul McCartney's 80th birthday, we're featuring one of his songs. Frankly, we could present one of his Beatles or solo career songs each week for a year):

Every day she takes a morning bath she wets her hair
Wraps a towel around her as she's heading for the bedroom chair
It's just another day
Slipping into stockings, stepping into shoes
Dipping in the pocket of her raincoat
It's just another day
At the office where the papers grow she takes a break
Drinks another coffee and she finds it hard to stay awake
It's just another day

Do do do do do do, it's just another day
Do do do do do do, it's just another day

So sad, so sad
Sometimes she feels so sad
Alone in her apartment she'd dwell
Till the man of her dreams come to break the spell
Ah, stay, don't stand her up
And he comes and he stays but he leaves the next day

So sad
Sometimes she feels so sad

As she posts another letter to the sound of five
People gather 'round her and she finds it hard to stay alive
It's just another day

Do do do do do do, it's just another day
Do do do do do do, it's just another day

So sad, so sad
Sometimes she feels so sad
Alone in her apartment she'd dwell
Till the man of her dreams come to break the spell
Ah, stay, don't stand her up
And he comes and he stays but he leaves the next day
So sad
Sometimes she feels so sad

Every day she takes a morning bath she wets her hair
Wraps a towel around her as she's heading for the bedroom chair
It's just another day
Slipping into stockings, stepping into shoes
Dipping in the pocket of her raincoat
It's just another day

Do do do do do do, it's just another day
Do do do do do do, it's just another day

"Just Another Day" by Paul & Linda McCartney from the album "Ram" (1971)*. Listen/Watch here.

*The melody is jaunty, but "Another Day" is a rather depressing song. It's about a lonely woman trapped in a life of monotony - not unlike Eleanor Rigby. She lives alone in her apartment and does receive the company of a man, but he always leaves the next day. The song takes a stark turn when it hints that she's suicidal:

People gather 'round her and she finds it hard to stay alive
It's just another day

McCartney attempted this song with The Beatles in 1969, but nothing came of it. He recorded it in January 1971 during the sessions for his second solo album, Ram. "Another Day" was Paul McCartney's first single as a solo artist. He didn't release any singles from his first album (McCartney), although "Maybe I'm Amazed" became one of his most popular songs. It was a solid hit, charting around the world. Many elements of the song - like the harmony vocals and storyline lyric - were familiar to Beatles' fans, making it a can't miss. There's even some laughter sound effects in the mix, harkening back to the Sgt. Pepper album.

Released as a standalone single, the song was left off the Ram album, but included on its re-release in 2012. "Uncle Albert - Admiral Halsey" was a huge US hit from the album, but none of the other songs caught on. Critics were rather harsh, with Rolling Stone calling it "inconsequential" and "irrelevant." This became a pattern for McCartney, who throughout his solo career released some songs that were wildly popular and others with no ambitions of commercial appeal. His early work was held in higher regard in retrospect when there was some distance between him and The Beatles. McCartney's wife Linda sings on this track and is credited as a songwriter - the credits read "Mr. and Mrs. McCartney." Splitting the songwriting credit with Linda was a tactical maneuver because his publishing was controlled by a company called Maclen Music, which filed a lawsuit in response. The case was settled the following year.

John Lennon referenced this song when he slagged off McCartney on his track "How Do You Sleep?" singing, "The only thing you done was 'Yesterday,' and since you're gone you're just another day." This was at the peak of their post-Beatles acrimony; they resumed their friendship a few years later. (Knowledge courtesy of Songfacts.com)

JUNE 29

Editor-in-Chief's Note (6/26, 9:00 a.m.): From the "Better Late Than Never" File, the Detroit Free Press has finally acknowledged Ford's ongoing nightmare with its endless stream of product recalls with a front page story in Sunday's paper headlined: "Ford's 'self-inflicted' recalls put automaker at a disadvantage." That the Freep has been late to this story is no surprise, since it spends most of its time generating story after story praising the company's "I'm a genius, just ask me" CEO. As I wrote a few weeks ago in "The 'New" Ford Looks A Lot Like The Old Ford," things are no different despite Ford PR minions' best efforts to paint the picture differently. The Dearborn-based automaker is hemorrhaging ca$h on stupid and frankly unforgivable recalls at this point, and the "fix" appears to be nowhere in sight. The reality? Ford's alleged "visionary" CEO is mired up to his ass in recall costs that he promised would be taken care of under his tenure, and there's no amount of carefully calculated PR that can make that reality go away. All Together Now: Not. Very. Good. -PMD

JULY 27

AUGUST 3 

(PPG)
PPG announced that a custom 1969 Pontiac Firebird featuring PPG paint captured the coveted Goodguys 2022 PPG Street Machine of the Year award at the Goodguys 24th Summit Racing Nationals. BBT Fabrications of Mahomet, Illinois, built the twin-turbo 1969 Firebird, which is owned by Brad Sather. Relic Restomods of Richmond, Illinois, painted the vehicle in McLaren Racing Green using the PPG DELTRON® refinish system.
(PPG)
In the PPG Best Use of Color category, a 1960 Buick LeSabre owned by Danielle Korek took the honor. Her husband, Ryan Korek of Korek Designs, painted the cruiser with a one-of-a-kind custom green color that he created with the PPG Deltron refinish system.

AUGUST 10 

AUGUST 24

(Porsche images)
MO' MONEY, MO' SPEED. Porsche operatives say that the 2023 Porsche 911 GT3 RS is uncompromisingly designed for maximum performance. Needless to say, it is a super-trick piece. We're talking some serious shit here. The 518HP road-legal high-performance sports car takes full advantage of technology and concepts from Porsche's ongoing GT motorsport program. Beyond the high-revving naturally aspirated engine with intelligent lightweight construction, it is, above all, the cooling and aerodynamic systems of the 911 GT3 RS that connect it most directly with the the 911 GT3 R racing machine. The basis for a significant performance boost is the concept of a central radiator – an idea that was first used in the Le Mans class-winning 911 RSR and subsequently in the 911 GT3 R. Instead of the three-radiator layout seen in previous cars, the new 911 GT3 RS relies on a large, angled center radiator in the car’s nose, positioned where the luggage compartment is located on other 911 models. This has made it possible to use the space freed up on the sides to integrate active aerodynamic elements. Continuously adjustable wing elements in the front and on the two-part rear wing, in combination with a number of other aerodynamic measures, provide more than 900 lbs. of downforce at approximately 124 mph, twice that of the 991.2-generation predecessor and three times as much as a current 911 GT3. At 177 mph, total downforce is 1,895 lbs, or the equivalent of a Porsche 356 A.
The 911 GT3 RS offers three driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track. In Track mode, the basic settings can be individually adjusted. Among other settings, the rebound and compression damping of the front and rear axles can be adjusted separately and in several stages. The rear differential can also be adjusted via rotary controls on the steering wheel. This is done quickly and intuitively with an operating and display concept also borrowed from endurance racing. Four individual rotary controls and a button for the Drag Reduction System (DRS) are located on the steering wheel. These rotary controls appear in the instrument cluster during the adjustment process. 
Thanks to an array of lightweight construction measures such as the extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), the 911 GT3 RS weighs in at 3,268 lbs. The doors, front quarter panels, roof and hood, for example, are made from CFRP. Lightweight CFRP is also used in the interior, including the standard full bucket seats, trimmed in black leather and Race-Tex joining carbon fiber trim throughout the interior.
The purposeful look of the new 911 GT3 RS is characterized by the large number of functional aerodynamic elements. The most prominent feature of the GT sports car is the swan-neck-supported rear wing, which is significantly larger in all dimensions than the wing of its predecessor. The rear wing consists of a fixed main wing and a hydraulically adjustable upper blade. For the first time on a Porsche production vehicle, the upper edge of the rear wing is higher than the roof. A front splitter divides the air flowing over and underneath working in parallel with side blades on the front fascia that deflect air outwards. Front wheel-arch ventilation is provided via distinctive louvered openings in the front quarter panels. Inlets behind the front wheels reduce the dynamic pressure in the wheel arches. Air from the centrally positioned radiator flows out of large nostrils on the front lid; further back, fins on the roof direct the air outwards, ensuring cooler intake temperatures in the rear. The openings in the rear side panel are used exclusively to improve aerodynamics and not to draw in combustion air. The rear wheel arch also features an intake and a side blade for optimized airflow. The rear diffuser is a modified version of that fitted to the 911 GT3.
A drag reduction system (DRS) is fitted in a production Porsche for the first time. To achieve low drag and higher speeds on straight sections of the track, the DRS allows the wings to be flattened out at the push of a button, within a specific operating range. During hard braking at high speeds, the airbrake function positions the wing elements at the front and rear to support deceleration by maximizing aerodynamic drag. Even the suspension is modified for improved aerodynamics. Because the wheel arches of the new 911 GT3 RS are subject to powerful airflows, the components of the double-wishbone front axle are designed with teardrop-shaped profiles. These aerodynamically efficient links increase downforce on the front axle by around 88 lbs. at top track speed and are otherwise only used in high-end motorsport applications. 
The high-revving, naturally aspirated 4.0-liter engine has been further tweaked compared to the 911 GT3. The increase in power to 518HP is achieved primarily via new camshafts with modified cam profiles. The single-throttle intake system and the rigid valvetrain are derived from motorsport. Like the 911 GT3, this engine also has six individual throttle bodies, one per cylinder. The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) has a shorter overall gear ratio than the 911 GT3 and is aided by air intakes on the underbody to ensure that the transmission can withstand even extreme loads during frequent use on track. The 911 GT3 RS accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 184 mph in seventh gear. The 2023 911 GT3 RS is expected to arrive at U.S. dealers by spring 2023. The starting MSRP is $223,800, excluding $1,450 for processing, delivery and handling.
IF YOU REALLY WANT TO BE THE BIGGEST TOOL IN THE SHED. A special version of the 2023 Porsche 911 GT3 RS - a tribute to the 1972 911 Carrera RS 2.7 - will arrive in the form of a limited-availability Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur offering exclusive to U.S. customers. Finished in white with key areas in Python Green, the car is a direct reference to the iconic white and green color configuration offered in 1972 on the first 911 “RS” model. In this instance, the body is finished in non-metallic white including side air intakes painted to match with model designation graphics on the sides and rear in Python Green, forged aluminum wheels in Python Green with white pinstripes. Exclusive Design taillights emphasize the green-on-white theme by eliminating the red color from the rear taillights and third brake light. Finally, the side plates on the left and right ends of the large rear wing are painted white with RS logos in Python Green. Bring ca$h. Lots and lots of ca$h.

AUGUST 31

Editor's Note: As another summer slowly fades into fall (and a truly gorgeous season here in Michigan), it's time to re-run an excerpt from one of our favorite pieces of automotive prose, which poet, critic and Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, James Agee wrote for the September 1934 issue of Fortune. The message here? It's never too late - just go for a drive. -WG

The characters in our story are five: this American continent; this American people; the automobile; the Great American Road, and the Great American Roadside. As an American, of course, you know these characters. This continent, an open palm spread frank before the sky against the bulk of the world. This curious people. The automobile you know as well as you know the slouch of the accustomed body at the wheel and the small stench of gas and hot metal. You know the sweat and the steady throes of the motor and the copious and thoughtless silence and the almost lack of hunger and the spreaded swell and swim of the hard highway toward and beneath and behind and gone and the parted roadside swarming past. This great road, too; you know that well. How it is scraggled and twisted along the coast of Maine, high-crowned and weak-shouldered in honor of long winter, how like a blacksnake in the sun it takes the ridges, the green and dim ravines which are the Cumberlands, and lolls loose into the hot Alabama valleys . . . Oh yes, you know this road….All such things you know….God and the conjunction of confused bloods, history and the bullying of this tough continent to heel, did something to the American people -- worked up in their blood a species of restiveness unlike any that any race before has known. Whatever we may think, we move for no better reason than for the plain unvarnished hell of it. And there is no better reason. So God made the American restive. The American in turn and in due time got into the automobile and found it good. The automobile became a hypnosis, the opium of the American people...

"Whatever we may think, we move for no better reason than for the plain unvarnished hell of it. And there is no better reason.”  Amen.

SEPTEMBER 7

(Salon Prive Photo)
A 1956 Ferrari 250 GT TdF Berlinetta by Zagato was awarded Best of Show at this year’s Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance presented by Aviva. Owned by David and Ginny Sydorick, the 250 GT TdF is one of just five Ferrari 250 GT long-wheelbase chassis cars designed by Zagato. Chassis 0515GT was originally built for one of Ferrari’s best customers, Vladimiro Galluzzi. Galluzzi raced the car extensively during the 1956 season, before selling it to racing driver Luigi Taramazzo. It was eventually retired from racing at the end of 1958. The V12-powered lightweight model has an elegant coach-built body with Zagato’s trademark double-bubble roof. Editor-in-Chief's Note: We never get tired of looking at a classic Ferrari. -PMD

SEPTEMBER 14

SEPTEMBER 28  

OCTOBER 5

(Lamborghini images)
IF A STANDARD URUS JUST WON'T DO. Automobili Lamborghini has unveiled the new Urus S. The successor to the original Urus, it "delivers increased power combined with luxurious versatility and presence to confirm its status as the ultimate lifestyle Lamborghini Super SUV," according to Lamborghini PR minions. The twin-turbo V8 gets a power increase to 666 CV, which matches that of its Urus Performante stablemate (So, what's the point of the Performante? Just sayin' - WG), delivering an improved weight-to-power ratio of 3.3 kg/CV. Acceleration is improved, with the Urus S going 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 12.5 seconds. With a top speed of 305 km/h, the Urus S brakes from 100 km/h back to zero in just 33.7m. Its twin-turbo engine delivers 850 Nm of maximum torque at 2,300 rpm up to a maximum 6,000 rpm. A re-tuned exhaust system delivers a more distinct sound at start-up and a sharper note in each drive mode. The Urus’ chassis features adaptive air suspension, which "ensures super sports driving enjoyment but smooth handling on road surfaces in STRADA, SPORT, CORSA and EGO drive modes," according to Lamborghini. The Urus S has off-road capability, too, with its immediately-available torque response and body balancing according to the particular requirements of its off-road drive selectors: TERRA, NEVE and SABBIA (As if anyone is going to take one of these off-road. -PMD). With the same powertrain calibration as the Urus Performante (Again, why the Performante then? -WG), the Urus S delivers optimum responsiveness and performance when required, alongside luxurious everyday driving pleasure from the Urus’ "finely-tuned chassis settings." The Urus S is "the ultimate lifestyle Super SUV," added Lamborghini PR minions. (So they say. -WG) Timing to the U.S. market as well as pricing will come at a later date.

OCTOBER 12

(Lamborghini images)
LOVE WE DO. Lamborghini embarked on a very special London tour in a Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 from Abbey Road Studios to Savile Row, and many of the famous streets in between. It was a journey that helped define the world’s most successful and influential band, The Beatles, to whom Lamborghini plays tribute on the day of the 60th anniversary of their debut single “Love Me Do”, released on October 5, 1962. The Beatles recorded virtually their entire output at Abbey Road, including “Love Me Do,” and when they performed live for the very last time on the roof of their Savile Row Apple Corps headquarters on January 30, 1969, a Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2, Rosso Alfa (red) with Nero (black) interior, was parked on the street below. The car is visible in director Peter Jackson’s recent award-winning Beatles documentary, Get Back. Editor-in-Chief's Note: Yes, the Lamborghini connection to The Beatles is way cool, and it also gave us an excuse to showcase one of our all-time favorite cars. Worth it. -PMD

OCTOBER 19 

The CELESTIQ is powered by GM's Ultium Platform. This dedicated EV propulsion architecture combines a 111-kWh battery pack and a two-motor, all-wheel-drive propulsion system to offer a GM-estimated 600HP and 640 lb-ft of torque — and a GM-estimated driving range of 300 miles (483 km) on a full charge. Unique among Ultium-based EVs are CELESTIQ’s 11.59:1 front and 11.63:1 rear gear ratios, which were specially calibrated to optimize range and performance. In addition to the impressive horsepower and torque, the vehicle is also projected to deliver one of the quickest 0-60-mph accelerations in the segment (3.8 seconds). The Ultium Platform also serves as a structural element of the vehicle, contributing to its overall strength and feeling of solidity, in addition to its performance. The underbody includes six large precision sand-cast aluminum components. Each casting reduces part count by 30 to 40 components, compared to typical stamped construction. The benefits being more efficient use of space, simplicity and improved structural rigidity. Of note: 115 3D printed parts are in the production vehicle, GM’s broadest use of this process. 

The CELESTIQ will offer the ultimate in ride refinement without sacrifices, according to the manufacturer. A suite of advanced automotive technologies includes: Adaptive Air Suspension; Active Rear Steering; Magnetic Ride Control 4.0; Advanced AWD; Active Roll Control; Active Rear Spoiler; Ride-focused tires, available 23-inch forged aluminum wheels with 23-inch summer-only Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires; Electric Power Steering; and 5-link front and rear suspension.

 

CELESTIQ is equipped with a 200 kW DC fast charging system capable of adding up to a Cadillac-estimated 78 miles of range in only 10 minutes of charging at a public DC fast charging station. CELESTIQ clients will also have access to Ultium Charge 360, a holistic approach to EV charging that’s designed to simplify the overall charging experience. It includes access to more than 110,000 publicly available charging points in the United States and Canada. 

 

"CELESTIQ is the purest expression of Cadillac’s legacy of design excellence,” said Erin Crossley, design director, CELESTIQ. “It revives the spirit of handcrafted coaches in a vehicle that is both an artistic tour de force and a peerless sensory experience.” Every metal surface seen on the exterior of the vehicle is real metal — including an aluminum grille, brushed aluminum bodyside, aluminum eTrunk™ lining, rocker, taillamp and headlamp trim, and brushed metal liftgate body openings. The aluminum grille and Goddess in the fender is milled into cast aluminum, then the piece is machine-polished, brushed and tinted. The Goddess trim also features a unique crystal element to house premium LED lighting elements. The CELESTIQ silhouette features several innovative technologies, including a Fixed Smart Glass Roof. In an industry-first feature, Suspended Particle Device Technology, multi-color ambient lighting, and lighting choreography create a unique interplay between the exterior and the amount of light allowed into the cabin through the four-zone Fixed Smart Glass Roof.

The craftsmanship in the Celestiq interior is evident through the use of authentic materials and indulgent details. The client-selected hand-wrapped materials, immersive interior lighting and embellishments embody Cadillac’s vision for exclusivity and customization. The interior lighting is fundamental to CELESTIQ, featuring more than 450 distinct LEDs, delivering an immersive sensory experience. Clients can personalize their color selections for each interior lighting zone or let CELESTIQ curate the lighting combinations to harmonize throughout the cabin. In addition, CELESTIQ includes 18 different lighting animations which showcase the interior’s lighting capabilities where the choreography of light enhances the mood. Other stuff? Hand-Finished Metalwork; Hand-Wrapped Leather; Personalized colors, materials and finishes. The centerpiece of the interior and the CELESTIQ technology interface is a pillar-to-pillar, 55-inch-diagonal advanced HD display, one of five high-definition displays in the vehicle, including a front console mounted 11-inch-diagonal touchscreen Front Command Center and a rear console mounted 8-inch-diagonal touchscreen Rear Command Center, which allow clients to control many features within the vehicle such as the seating positions, cabin temperature, door opening and closing, tinting the all-glass roof panel and more. Rear passengers have their own 12.6-inch-diagonal advanced displays in front of them, mounted on the front seatbacks. A crystal multi-functional controller directs the primary screen and is the crown jewel of the front center console, offering intuitive control of the infotainment system and other features. The detailed dial is composed of fine metal and glass, and it houses the Cadillac Goddess emblem.

CELESTIQ offers 41-speakers, including three exterior speakers. In the cabin, a 38-speaker AKG Studio Reference Audio System custom tuned by professional audio engineers utilizes three separate amplifiers powering 30 channels for complete audio immersion. The system features technologies such as 3D Surround, Vehicle Noise Compensation, Conversation Enhancement, Phone Zones, and more. The CELESTIQ sound experience will be further elevated through Electric Vehicle Sound Enhancement technology, which balances and blends the propulsion system’s sound. Additionally, CELESTIQ introduces a Cadillac-first Vehicle Exterior Sound System, which provides Cadillac curated propulsion sounds while driving.

An unprecedented, sophisticated artisan manufacturing process means that every CELESTIQ will be constructed at the General Motors Global Technical Center, in Warren, Michigan. It will be the first production vehicle ever produced at the company’s 66-year-old landmark design and engineering campus, with $81 million invested to support it. The CELESTIQ manufacturing area is a high-security “clean room”-type environment known as the Artisan Center, with access granted only to the artisans involved with construction. No more than six vehicles will be assembled at any time, ensuring the many layers of attention and quality control are painstakingly executed.

CELESTIQ is expected to go into production in December 2023, with an expected MSRP to begin north of $300,000 and increase based on level of personalization. CELESTIQ availability is by waitlist only. Visit www.cadillac.com for more information.

 

OCTOBER 26 

(GMC images)
YOU WANT EVS? GMC'S GOT 'EM. GMC has introduced the Sierra EV, which will join the GMC HUMMER EV Pickup and SUV. GMC will be the only brand to offer three all-electric trucks. Underpinning these three trucks is GM’s advanced Ultium Platform. The new GMC EV offering will be led by the 2024 Sierra EV Denali Edition 1, which will be available at launch in early 2024. GMC will introduce the Sierra EV AT4 and Elevation trims in the 2025 model year. Some highlights: GM-estimated range of 400 miles (640 km) on a full charge; GM-estimated 754HP and 785 lb-ft of torque in Max Power mode; Onboard Power Station Pro turns Sierra EV Denali into a mobile power source, with up to 10.2kW of off-board power that can be used in a variety of situations; 800 Volt DC Public Fast Charging capable at up to 350kW, enabling up to 100 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes — the best charging capability in the EV truck segment. The 2024 GMC Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 is expected to have a starting MSRP of $107,000 (plus DFC). Further details for the full range of Sierra EV models will be announced closer to the start of production, with MSRPs starting around $50,000 (plus DFC). Reservations for the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 were available to the public starting Oct. 20, 2022, at www.gmc.com. Watch the intro video here. 

NOVEMBER 2

FROM THE "COOL STUFF" FILE. Ringbrothers unveiled its most extreme creation yet, the “ENYO” super truck. The 1948 Chevrolet pickup is the result of more than 10,000 thorough and laborious build hours. The ENYO is powered by a Goodwin 1,000HP tall-deck racing engine and is crafted using extensive carbon-fiber components. Chopped, channeled and sectioned, the 1948 Chevrolet pickup is loaded with performance and design aspects that were inconceivable in its original era. ENYO features state-of-the-art chassis and suspension design, carbon fiber parts and aero management with wings and splitters, pushing Ringbrothers and the build partners into new territory. The ENYO has incredible details baked in, from the CAD-designed trim and parts that were all cut in-house at the Ringbrothers machining facility to the way they seamlessly managed to mate a big-box truck cab and massive drivetrain successfully on a low-slung, open-wheeled, car-style chassis. The racing-inspired drivetrain is equipped with a 510 cubic-inch tall-deck engine built by Todd Goodwin producing 1,000HP with Kinsler eight-stack injection, a Holley fuel management system and a Bowler Performance Corvette torque-tube 4L80 automatic transaxle. To ensure the massive power is transferred to the ground for maximum grip and performance, ENYO features a cantilever-independent suspension at all four corners with Ohlins shocks. The open-wheeled truck sits on custom Porsche 911 pin-drive HRE Wheels and both track and street wheels are included with the installed Nuke Performance air jack system facilitating quick swaps. Big Brembo GTS M6 brakes with six-piston calipers provide stopping power. Atop the one-off chassis designed by Scott Ahlman, Ahlman Engineering, in conjunction with Roadster Shop is the original 1948 steel cab extensively modified by Ringbrothers. It is narrowed and chopped by four inches, lengthened and wedge cut. The remaining body pieces are constructed in 3K-weave carbon fiber, including a single-piece carbon-fiber belly pan spanning from front to back. ENYO’s modernization also includes power windows, a custom stainless-steel gas tank by Rick’s Tanks, a Vintage Air Gen II compact air-conditioning system and a custom interior collaboration with Upholstery Unlimited and Gemini Technology Systems. The open truck bed stages all the components needed to run this beast, and the clamshell hood is easily opened with electromagnetic latches. The side pipes are made from 58 feet of titanium pie-cut welds and are connected to the shining one-off custom headers. Every part of ENYO is created to show its impeccable design and performance capabilities.

(Honda images)
YOU R READY, RIGHT? The all-new 2023 Civic Type R – the most powerful and highest-performing Honda production vehicle ever sold in America – finally began arriving at Honda dealers nationwide on 10/28, with an MSRP of $42,895 (plus a $1,095 destination charge).

 

NOVEMBER 9 

(Porsche images)
WHY ASK WHY? Porsche tested a unique pair of experimental 911 sports cars where there were no roads, where the air was thin, where the temperature wa far below freezing and even plant life doesn't survive. A team, led by endurance racer and adventurer Romain Dumas, set out to explore the limits of the 911 and opted for one of the toughest places on earth – on the sheer slopes of Ojos del Salado, Chile, the highest volcano in the world. Exploring up to 6,007 meters (19,708 feet), the 911, with Romain Dumas at the wheel, took on boulder-strewn gradients as well as ice fields that tested the abilities of both the car and the team in temperatures hovering 30 degrees Celsius below freezing and with half the available oxygen in the air compared to at sea level. Impassable walls of seasonal snow and ice high up near the summit provided the upper limits of the test, which provided a tantalizing glimpse of what the cars are capable of in the right conditions. “This was a truly memorable and special moment in a place that’s both beautiful and brutal at the same time – I guess the only machines anywhere in the world higher than us today were aircraft! For the team and the car it was about learning – and right out of the box, the car was tough and nimble. We were hard on ourselves and really put it in the deep end for its first test, yet it felt at home,” said Romain Dumas, driver of the 911 and leader of the team. 
Frank-Steffen Walliser, Vice-President, Complete Vehicle Architecture and Characteristics at Porsche AG, commissioned his chief engineer for the Porsche 911, Michael Rösler, with the project. “It’s been magical to build a 911 like the world has never seen before – made possible by a small team of engineering enthusiasts. The 911 has already been proven on the track and, of course, on the road. With this project, we‘re shifting the focus to where there are no roads," said Rösler, Director complete vehicle 911 Model line. “Testing our theories means finding the harshest possible environments to see if they work – and on the highest volcano in the world, we succeeded.”
Each 911 (Type 992) Carrera 4S was equipped with a factory standard turbocharged flat-six engine developing 443HP under standard conditions and the original seven-speed manual transmission. From this starting point, the engineers at Porsche’s research and development base in Weissach, near Stuttgart, working closely with Romain Dumas Motorsport, then let their combined creativity run wild as they worked to prepare it for the specific demands of the mountain.
The two cars were first equipped with roll cages, carbon fiber seats and harnesses to meet the safety requirements such a project demands. Next, portal axles were added to increase ground clearance (now 350 mm). New, lower gear ratios allow for precise, gentle throttle inputs at low speed and work well with large, newly fitted off-road tires. In addition, the cars were equipped with special lightweight, but extremely tough, Aramid fiber underbody protection to allow sliding over rocks.
A device called the Porsche Warp-Connecter was added. Originally designed for motorsport applications, it forms a mechanical link between all four wheels to allow constant wheel load even when the chassis is enduring extreme articulation – contributing to maximum traction. Manual, switchable differential locks were used along with an advanced steer-by-wire system. Finally a winch was added at the front of the car along with revised bodywork to allow clearance for the 310 mm wide off-road wheels and tires. The cooling system also needed to move upward to allow the car to tackle more extreme off-road sections without fear of damage. As a finishing touch, the bodywork was finished in two distinctive liveries – one featuring the same Porsche Motorsport color scheme adorning the new 963 LMDh racer and a second 911-themed livery designed by the styling team in Weissach.
“Over 30 years ago, a team of Porsche engineers fitted four wheel drive to a 911 to explore ‘what if?’ – and I’m proud that this natural curiosity and drive amongst engineers to explore the limits, to test new ideas and above all to inspire, is alive and well,” said Walliser. “Projects like this one are vital to who we are at Porsche. As they began their journey, the team literally aimed sky high. The first of what I hope will be many adventures.”

 

NOVEMBER 16

(Bugatti images)
THE LATEST FROM THE "UNOBTAINIUM" FILE: The Bugatti W16 Mistral, the most extreme roadster in Bugatti history, will mark the final road-going appearance for the famed W16 engine. Emilio Scervo, Bugatti Rimac Chief Technology Officer, commented: “Managing both thermodynamics and aerodynamics effectively is key to achieving more than 420 km/h in an open top car, even with 1,600 PS from perhaps the most advanced automotive engine ever created. We have to think very carefully about how we shape the W16 Mistral to guide air through the car and around the car to delicately balance both cooling and aerodynamics. But, of course, we must do all this with a sense of elegance befitting a Bugatti roadster. A car that is both designed for purpose, but simultaneously evokes a sense of timelessness.” At the front of W16 Mistral, a new wider, deeper and more three-dimensional iteration of the famous Bugatti horseshoe grille allows the high temperature engine radiator to be fully fed purely from one intake, leaving the two side intakes to focus only on providing air to the intercoolers. The airflow around the front corners is managed by two intakes - one by the wheel and one seamlessly integrated within a new three-dimensional headlamp design. The air is guided from an area of high pressure to low pressure area in the wheel well, which would otherwise create turbulence and drag, affecting W16 Mistral’s performance. W16 Mistral will run in ‘Top Speed’ mode (420 km/h) with the minimum amount of rake on the rear wing to reduce drag, but the rear diffuser has been optimized because downforce created by a diffuser comes with very little penalty for drag. The diffuser edge has been elevated to increase its rake angle and expansion ratio, helping to maintain both W16 Mistral’s stability and its record-breaking top speed. Achim Anscheidt, Bugatti Rimac Design Director, concludes: “The W16 Mistral is a special moment in the history of Bugatti; the kind of car that will be seen on the lawns of top Concours d’Elegance events for decades or even centuries. We created a timeless interior for this car, including the introduction of an intricate woven leather used on newly designed door panels, meticulously tested and produced to Bugatti quality standards. And in a nod to the W16 Mistral’s illustrious forebears, like the Type 41 Royale, the gear shifter – machined from a solid block of aluminum – features a touch of wood and an amber insert with Rembrandt Bugatti’s famous ‘dancing elephant’ sculpture locked within.” How many and how much? Only 99 examples of the W16 Mistral will be built, priced at 5 million euros net, with deliveries due to begin in 2024. The entire production run of W16 Mistral is already sold out. No shit. Watch the Official Bugatti Video here. 

 

NOVEMBER 23

(Porsche images)

WHY ASK WHY, PART II. Tired of watching every aftermarket tuner on the planet doing "lifted" off-road versions of its iconic 911 sports car, Porsche unveiled the new Porsche 911 Dakar at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The exclusive model, which is limited to 2,500 units globally, "demonstrates that the concept of the Porsche 911 knows almost no boundaries. It harks back to the first overall Porsche victory at the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally – which also represents the first use of the all-wheel drive system in a Porsche 911," according to Porsche PR minions. The ride height on the Porsche 911 Dakar is 50 millimeters higher than on a 911 Carrera model equipped with Sport Suspension. In addition to this, the standard lift system can raise the front and rear of the car by an additional 30 mm – achieving a level of ride height and ramp-over angles similar to conventional SUVs. The lift system is not only designed to help clear obstacles at low speeds, but is also an integral component of the newly calibrated suspension. The “High Level” setting is usable at up to approximately 105 mph for spirited off-road driving. Above this speed, the car returns to its normal ride height. Other stuff? Specially developed Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires with dual carcass layers, measuring 245/45 ZR 19 in front and 295/40 ZR 20 at the rear. Summer performance tires and snow tires from the Pirelli P Zero tire family are optionally available, and also feature dual carcass layers, but the new all-terrain tires are standard. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo Boxer engine delivers 473HP and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing the new 911 Dakar to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. (Top track speed is limited to 150 mph due to the cross section height of the tires for this model.) The engine is paired with an eight-speed-PDK and Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive. Rear-axle steering, engine mounts adopted from the 911 GT3 and the body roll reducing Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) system are also standard. The interplay of all these components enables the 911 Dakar to tackle sand and loose gravel especially well. Two new drive modes – Rallye Mode and Off-Road Mode – offer the excellent off-road performance that can be activated using the mode switch on the steering wheel. Rallye Mode is programmed for loose, uneven surfaces and biases power to the rear axle. In Off-Road Mode, which is focused on maximizing traction on sand and in rough terrain, the “High Level” ride height is automatically engaged. A new Rallye Launch Control mode was developed specially for this model and is available in both model-specific drive modes. It enables impressive acceleration on loose surfaces and allows wheel spin of up to 20 percent. Still more? The 911 Dakar also features a fixed rear spoiler and a hood made of CFRP, of which the latter is taken from the 911 GT3, with large openings designed to extract air. You also get red front and rear tow hooks made of forged aluminum, flared fender arches and rocker panels, stainless steel body elements on the front and rear fascia and side skirts. The side air intakes in the newly designed front fascia also have stainless steel mesh grilles to keep rocks and other damaging objects from entering. The roof of the 911 Dakar is equipped with a 12-volt-socket for the headlights of the optional roof basket. It can hold up to 92 lbs. of equipment such as spare gas and water canisters, folding shovels and recovery boards. A roof tent is available for the 911 Dakar as well. The interior of the 911 Dakar is equipped with standard Full Bucket Seats and deleted rear seats. Lightweight glass also helps save mass so that the 911 Dakar has a curb weight of 3,552 lbs. ‒ just 16 lbs. more than a 911 Carrera 4 GTS with PDK. Another Dakar-specific detail is the standard Race-Tex upholstery with decorative stitching in Shade Green, which is exclusive to the 911 Dakar as an exterior paint color (as shown below). The optional Rallye Design Package starts with a two-tone paint consisting of White and Gentian Blue Metallic. This also represents the first time that Porsche is combining a two-tone paint color with decorative livery. Customers can opt for a start number on the side of the car between “0” and “999.” And for those who absolutely insist that they be "The Biggest Tool In The Shed," customers of the 911 Dakar so inclined can order an exclusive Porsche Design Chronograph 1 ‒ 911 Dakar or the Chronograph 1 ‒ 911 Dakar Rallye Design Edition. For the first time, the housing is made of particularly light and scratch resistant titanium carbide. Alrighty then! The Porsche 911 Dakar is expected to begin arriving in U.S. dealers in Spring 2023, with a starting MSRP of ‒ ahem ‒ $222,000 excluding $1,450 for delivery, processing and handling. Editor-in-Chief's Note: That last bit of information - the crushing price - is the point of this exercise. No car company in the world is more skilled at extracting as much ca$h-ola as possible from its faithful than Porsche. In fact, the German automaker has elevated it to an art form, a monument to itself based on unbridled, flat-out greed. I am quite sure that the Porsche 911 Dakar will be sold out, if it's not already. This car is unobtainium due to its cost, but even if it was remotely affordable I would have zero interest, because I have never been a fan of the "lifted" 911 craze. And I'm not about to start now. -PMD

(Toyota images)
BELIEVE IT OR NOT, THIS IS THE ALL-NEW 2023 TOYOTA PRIUS. Calling it "the most fuel-efficient Prius ever" with up to a manufacturer-estimated 57 combined MPG, according to Toyota PR minions, the new Prius features a fifth-generation hybrid powertrain that has up to 196HP, which means it's noticeably quicker. But the big news, as far as we're concerned, is the exterior design featuring what Toyota calls a "One-Motion" Silhouette. It's longer, lower and wider, and it looks good. It will be available sometime next year.
 
(Toyota images)
AND INTRODUCING THE 2023 OPTI-PRIUS PRIME.  Toyota also unveiled the 2023 Prius Prime plug-in hybrid. Available in SE, XSE and XSE premium grades, the 2023 Prius Prime is built on the second-generation TNGA-C platform (as is the Prius), offering a low center of gravity with reduced weight and increased rigidity compared to the previous generation. The all-new Prius Prime also features a solar roof. This on-board charging feature uses roof-mounted solar panels to recharge the Prius Prime’s battery when parked. The panels deliver supplemental power to accessory functions, like air conditioning, when driving, and they also use a design that conceals the electrodes for a seamless, glossy appearance. Compared to the previous generation Prius Prime, it’s 2 inches lower, 1 inch wider, 1 inch longer, and with a hip point that’s almost 1 inch lower. The placement of the traction battery is also optimized, with placement under the rear seat for a low center of gravity and enhanced luggage capacity. The Prius Prime's plug-in hybrid system is designed to enhance both fuel economy and driving performance, when compared to the outgoing model. The acceleration feel and vehicle speed controllability have also been enhanced, according to Toyota, providing a driving feel and accelerator response unique to electric vehicles. Under the hood is the fifth-generation hybrid powertrain, coupled with a 2.0L engine and a newly developed lithium-ion battery, located underneath the rear seat. The result is a zero-emission electric range increase of more than 50%, a nearly 100HP increase to 220HP and a 0-60 time of 6.6 seconds. Availability is next year.
 

 

NOVEMBER 30 

(Audi images)
PAGING 150 ICE ENTHUSIASTS. Audi of America is paying tribute to the first-generation Audi R8 GT from 2012 by announcing the arrival of the all-new R8 GT. The naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine now comes with 602HP – making it the most powerful rear-wheel drive series production model in the brand’s history. The high revving 5.2-liter 10-cylinder engine produces 413 lb-ft. of torque and a max engine speed of up to 8,700 rpm. As a result, the new R8 GT accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds and reaches a top track speed of up to 199 mph. A new Torque Rear drive mode was developed exclusively for the R8 GT to provide for more precise and controlled oversteering when driven on a track. The R8 GT will be limited to just 333 units worldwide, of which 150 units will come to the United States market. The new Audi R8 GT will start arriving at dealerships in early 2023. How much? The MSRP starts at $249,900, plus.

 

 

DECEMBER 7

ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST. Editor-in-Chief's Note: Ford has announced the exit of its top marketing executive, Suzy Deering, effective Friday. Deering was hired from eBay by Ford CEO Jim Farley just less than two years ago. The Dearborn automaker declined comment on the circumstances of Deering's departure. Despite Deering's gushing, overly long exit statement on LinkedIn, this development is no surprise. Farley has always been a micromanaging terror famous for parachuting in and wreaking havoc, then helicoptering out leaving confusion, rancor and chaos in his wake. Farley is a CEO minus any meaningful guardrails whatsoever, which will prove to be a recipe for disaster for Ford as long as he's allowed to run roughshod over any marketing executive pretending to have the top marketing job. Farley has always been delusional about his marketing prowess, which is truly pathetic, especially since no one at Ford is up to the task of reining him in. -PMD

(Mercedes-Benz)
HOW MUCH? THEY AREN'T SAYING, WHICH MEANS BRING PLENTY OF CA$H-OLA.The performance and sports car brand from Affalterbach - Mercedes-AMG - set its first milestone in 1971 with the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG. Today, the new Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE with AMG performance hybrid technology is the company's new benchmark. The E PERFORMANCE model combines the Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine with an AMG-specific hybrid powertrain and a new expansion stage of the AMG high-performance battery (HPB). The energy content increases from 6.1 kWh in the HPB 80 to 13.1 kWh in the HPB 150. The focus of the powertrain, however, is less on electric range and more on best-in-class performance. With a combined system output of 791HP and 1,055 lb-ft of torque, the AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE "sets new standards in the segment" according to Mercedes-AMG PR minions. The acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 3.2 seconds (est.) and the top speed is 180 mph.

(Acura images)
ACURA FLOGS THE INTEGRA FOR ALL IT'S WORTH. Acura has confirmed the development of a high-performance Integra Type S, set to join the lineup for the 2024 model year. The Integra Type S will be powered by a high-revving 2.0-liter VTEC turbocharged engine producing over 300 horsepower and paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission and limited slip differential. More details will be shared closer to launch.

(Ferrari images) 
THEY JUST COULDN'T RESIST, APPARENTLY. The Ferrari Vision Gran Turismo, a futuristic, closed-wheel single-seater, is the first Ferrari concept car created specifically for the virtual motor sport world. The car’s design has its roots firmly in Maranello’s unparalleled racing tradition, with the number 75 on its flanks reflecting that heritage. The launch of the Ferrari Vision Gran Turismo brings the 75th anniversary celebrations of when the marque’s first-ever racing car, the 125 S, exited the iconic factory gates in 1947, to an official close. The Ferrari Vision Gran Turismo’s design was penned by the Ferrari Centro Stile under the direction of Flavio Manzoni and takes its inspiration directly from legendary Ferrari Sports Prototypes from the 1960s and '70s, which enjoyed huge success in endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans (won by Ferrari a total of nine times), and the Daytona 24 Hours. Featuring dramatic proportions and futuristic lines, "the car succeeds in its stylistic mission by effortlessly embodying the DNA of masterpieces such as the 330 P3 and 512 S, simultaneously paying homage to the Prancing Horse’s glorious racing history and affording a tantalizing glimpse of the future evolution of closed-wheel racing cars," according to the Italian supercar manufacturer. The full-scale design study will be displayed in the Ferrari Museum in Maranello from December 15, 2022 to March 2023.
 

 

DECEMBER 14 

(Polestar)
Polestar and CAKE have revealed a second limited Polestar edition of the fully electric Makka moped in the sky color first shown on the Polestar electric roadster concept. The first edition of the CAKE Makka Polestar edition, in Polestar Snow matte color, was launched in 2021 and instantly sold out. Besides the bespoke color, the second limited Polestar edition includes a slim headlight and dampers from high-end suspension company Öhlins. The new edition also adds a detachable rear carrier to use for improved cargo carrying, making the electric commuter even more flexible. The CAKE Makka Polestar edition has a top speed of 45 km/h and two ride modes for extended range or balanced performance. It is sold and delivered by CAKE, but the Polestar edition is available exclusively to selected Polestar markets via the Polestar Additionals webshop beginning December 14, 2022.

(GM)
General Motors has announced that Michael Simcoe, vice president, Global Design, has been promoted to senior vice president, Global Design, effective Jan. 1. Simcoe will continue to report to GM President Mark Reuss. “Under Michael’s leadership the GM design team has delivered winning design after winning design, demonstrating the ability to connect with customers in all vehicle segments, for both internal combustion engine vehicles and electric vehicles,” said Reuss. “GM Design has also played a pivotal role in the expansion of our business, developing concepts that highlight our path to an all-electric, autonomous future and solutions for new business models like BrightDrop and Cruise.” “Elevating design in the organization demonstrates how important the integration of design and technology is as we continue to transform the company,” Reuss added. Under Simcoe’s leadership, GM’s brand design studios have executed award-winning products across several categories. Examples of EVs created during Simcoe’s leadership include the Buick Wildcat concept and upcoming Electra EVs, Cadillac CELESTIQ and LYRIQ, GMC HUMMER EV Pickup and SUV and Sierra EV, and the Chevrolet Equinox EV, Blazer EV and Silverado EV. Other milestone vehicles include the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray - the company’s first-ever mid-engine Corvette - the 2021 Cadillac Escalade with the industry’s first application of innovative display and audio technology, and the 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate. Simcoe has led GM Global Design since 2016. He has built a reputation for applying global design excellence and creativity to the company’s distinct brands and for inspiring the team to deliver winning products to the market. This team has also gained new perspectives and reached new markets under Simcoe’s leadership, including the current expansion into Europe. Simcoe joined GM in 1983 as a designer at Holden in Australia.