2010 Tesla Roadster 2.5

The 2010 Tesla Roadster 2.5 will debut at the same time in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Newport Beach, California and will bring both design and technology improvements.

The Roadster 2.5 demonstrates that Tesla will give its range of vehicles a family resemblance. The new front fascia with diffusing vents is similar to the svelte Model S sedan, and Tesla says the new rear diffuser also points to the brand’s future design language.

The interior is reinforced with an improved sound-reduction materials and an optional seven-inch nav system. Some of the upgrades will be available to existing Roadster owners as upgrades. In terms of styling, the Roadster features a new front fascia, restyled wheels (available in silver or black) and a modified rear diffuser. Inside, the cabin has improved sound dampening, better seats, and an optional 7-inch navigation system with a back-up camera.

The look and feel of the car has been redesigned too, with new air-intake vents, alloy wheels and comfier seats. It's better suited for warmer climates too, thanks to a new power control system.

Opting for the Roadster Sport unlocks a new wheel design, available in silver or gloss black finishes. Everything in between is more or less identical to the now old Roadster 2.0.




Press Release

Tesla Premiers Roadster 2.5 at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Electric Carmaker Will Perform This Weekend in World-Famous Motoring Festival in the UK.

CHICHESTER, England - Tesla Motors (TSLA) will unveil its next-generation sports car to the public this weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The Tesla Roadster 2.5 features improvements in design and technology, including a new front fascia, rear diffuser, improved seat comfort, sound dampening and an optional large touch screen navigation system with back-up camera. Improved interior sound reduction techniques, including new front fender liner material, make the cabin even quieter.

The Festival of Speed is the world's largest motoring garden party, a unique weekend that brings together a heady mix of cars, stars and motor sport royalty to create the largest car culture festival worldwide. Held in the immaculate grounds of Goodwood House, this annual hill-climb extravaganza celebrates all things automotive.

Goodwood is one of the most beloved motoring events in the world and a highlight of the English summer so it's only appropriate that this iconic celebration will be the public premiere of the latest Roadster, said Cristiano Carlutti, Tesla's Vice President of European Operations.

Absolutely Extraordinary

Tesla has already become a darling of Britain's beloved Goodwood, which this spring hosted the first official UK motor race that included electric vehicles, a competition sanctioned by the UK Motor Sport Association. One of Britain's most respected motoring correspondents described a recent Roadster stint on a Goodwood hill climb as an 'absolutely extraordinary performance.'

UK companies that purchase a Roadster benefit from a 100 percent Writing Down Allowance, meaning they can deduct the price of the car from their taxable profits. The Roadster is the only sports car that has ever qualified for such a tax incentive in the UK. Roadster drivers park for free and without time limits in various London boroughs, they get four hours of free charging at certain parking sites, and they are exempt from the Showroom Tax.

Tesla launched the new Roadster this week and is delivering to customers now. More than 1,200 current Tesla owners in at least 23 countries have logged over five million electric miles in their Roadsters.

Prospective customers can see the Tesla Roadster 2.5 at Goodwood or at the London showroom at 49-51 Cheval Place in Knightsbridge, near Harrods. Tesla is now delivering this latest version of the car in all Tesla markets in Europe, Asia and North America.

Tesla Unveils Roadster 2.5 at Newest Stores in Europe and North America

New Roadster Demonstrates Tesla's Commitment to Innovation

Palo Alto, CA -- Tesla Motors today announced Roadster 2.5, the latest version of its revolutionary electric sports car. It will debut simultaneously with the opening of Tesla's two new stores in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Newport Beach, California.

The Roadster 2.5 reflects Tesla's commitment to innovation and the company's close feedback loop with its customers. The new Roadster includes improvements in both design and technology, including a new front fascia, rear diffuser, improved seat comfort & internal finishes, sound dampening and a large touch screen navigation system.

"Although development of the Model S is our main focus, this shows that we still care a great deal about improving the Tesla Roadster," said Tesla CEO Elon Musk. "These improvements are a direct result of customer feedback and come only a year after release of Roadster 2.0, showing an exceptionally rapid pace of innovation. Where feasible, we will also offer existing customers the ability to purchase the upgrades now available in version 2.5."

New features in Roadster 2.5 include:

• A new look, which includes a new front fascia with diffusing vents, and rear diffuser reflecting the future of Tesla design

• Directional forged wheels available in both silver and black

• New seats with improved comfort, larger more supportive bolsters and a new lumbar support system

• Power control hardware that enables spirited driving in exceptionally hot climates

• An optional 7" touchscreen display with back-up camera

• Improved interior sound reduction including new front fender liner material make the cabin even quieter

Tesla will unveil the new Roadster at its two newest stores worldwide in Copenhagen and Newport Beach, CA. Journalists can see the car during media open houses at both stores throughout the day. Customers, prospective customers and other guests will celebrate the opening of the newest stores this evening.

The enhancements in the Roadster 2.5 are the direct result of accumulated customer feedback. Tesla's unique, company-owned retail network allows Tesla's engineers to receive customer feedback directly and iterate rapidly. More than 1,200 current owners in at least 23 countries have logged over five million electric miles.

Roadster 2.5 is currently available for order and soon will be available at Tesla stores worldwide.

2011 Steeda Sport Edition 5.0L Mustang [Video]

Steeda 2011 Ford Mustang 5.0 entry-level tuning package announced

The program has delivered several significant benefits including significantly improved handling, driving dynamics and overall vehicle performance. Yet the entry level Steeda 5.0L Mustang is priced under $40,000.

The vehicle also comes with improved handling and driving dynamics, thanks to the addition of a new hood and rear wing, a new set of sport springs, as well as 9.5x20-inch Spyder wheels wrapped in Nitto NT05 performance tires. There are also Sidewinder Graphics included in the package for a more unique look.

Steeda retrofitted with the 5.0-liter 4V Ti-VCT V8 aluminum block via a specially engineered Cold Air Intake (CAI) unit. The CAI combines a state-of-the-art SCT X3 Flash Programmer, which further improves theperformance output of 44 horsepower and 52 ft.lbs. to the factory 412 horses at 6,500 rpm and 390 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,250 rpm.






Press Release

2011 Steeda Sport Edition – Dare to be Different!

The 2011 Steeda Sport Edition 5.0L Mustang provides a distinctly different level of performance and at a price value that makes it an unbeatable deal in the performance vehicle market today. Priced at under $40,000, this performance machine takes a donor 2011 Mustang GT 5.0L and transforms it into a significantly improved handling stallion that provides improved driving dynamics and overall vehicle performance.Intended to be the entry level Steeda 5.0L Mustang, this Sport Performance Package provides the base key Steeda DNA elements with a dramatically improved power package that when combined together make it a true Steeda Mustang.

Special equipment on this entry level Steeda 5.0L Mustang includes the following performance parts:

• Steeda Sport Springs – for improved ride and handling
• Steeda Aerodynamic Hood – provides increased engine cooling
• Steeda Rear Aerodynamic Wing – increases rear downforce
• Steeda Sidewinder graphics – for that unique Steeda visual image
• Steeda Spyder Wheels 20x9.5 – lighter, stronger and more aggressive
• Nitto NT05 275/35/20 Performance Tires – for ultimate street/track grip

In addition, after retail delivery occurs, the retail customer will receive our unique Steeda Cold Air Intake and a SCT Xcal3 tuner loaded with our performance tune that will additionally increase the 5.0L output to 450 hp.

With dramatically increased power and dramatically improved handling and overall vehicle driving dynamics, the Steeda Sport edition builds on the 22 year heritage that Steeda Autosports has done upgrading the performance of America's original pony car – the Ford Mustang. Call the Steeda Autosports hotline on 954-960-0774 and talk to one of our highly experienced Performance Sales Associates for additional information on how you can make your 2011 5.0L Mustang into a Steeda Sport today!

Ford Mustang V6 aims for 1,000 laps of Bristol track on one tank of fuel

How many laps of Bristol Motor Speedway will a V6-powered Ford Mustang run on one tank of fuel? Ford is about to find out as part of a marketing effort for the car, which got new V6 and V8 powertrains for the 2011 model year.



The 2011 Ford Mustang with its 305-hp 3.7L V6 engine set a new record by averaging 48.5 mpg on a track while completing 1,457 laps at an average speed of 43.9 mph.



The 2011 Mustang V6 has spent about 12 hours going 1000 laps on ¾ of a tank of gas and that would suggest that the Mustang has roughly 3-4 hours left and if they maintain an average of 43mph (they are shooting for 45, but there are stops and such), they are on a pace to run 129-172 more miles, or 242 to 322 laps - finishing up somewhere between 11pm and midnight.



Of course that 48.5 mpg record has been achieved by driving consistently on a track with average speed of 43.9 mph. The real life economy of the V6 Mustang is 31 mpg which is still very impressive considering that it delivers 305 hp. We’d just like to say well done to Ford and all those drivers who tolerated hours hours of mind-numbingly boring consistent economy driving to set this record!



So anyone who placed their bets on whether or not the Mustang had it in him, either start collecting or start paying. The Mustang proves to be a killer muscle car that wipes the floor with the 29mpg highway of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro and the 26mpg of the 2010 Dodge Charger.













Press Release



MUSTANG V-6 AVERAGES 48.5 MPG; RUNS 1,457 LAPS AT BRISTOL ON A SINGLE TANK OF GAS

• The 2011 Ford Mustang V-6 sets a new record by averaging 48.5 mpg on a track while completing 1,457 laps with an average speed of 43.9 mph
• Mustang is powered by a new 3.7-liter V-6 engine that uses advanced engineering and technology to deliver great performance and fuel economy
• More than 51,000 entries were received for the Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge with 22 entries guessing the winning number of laps
• A team of five drivers, including four Ford Mustang engineers and Ford NASCAR star David Ragan, drove the Mustang during its record run

Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge



BRISTOL, TN., June 24, 2010 – The 2011 Ford Mustang, which made history when it became the first car ever to deliver more than 30 mpg and 305 horsepower, has set a new record by running 1,457 laps at Bristol Motor Speedway while averaging 48.5 mpg.



The Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge was designed to demonstrate that a stock production Mustang V-6 could run 1,000 laps and 533 miles on a single of tank of fuel. With the aid of fuel efficient driving techniques by Ford engineers, the Mustang far surpassed its goal of 1,000 laps.



"To see a Mustang post average fuel economy of 48.5 mpg while running at Bristol is impressive," said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. "The new V-6 engine along with the advanced six-speed transmission in the car is a key element in delivering both fuel economy and performance for Mustang."



Ford is committed to being a fuel economy leader in every segment it competes in and Mustang's leads in its class along with other Ford fuel economy leaders like the Ford Fiesta, Fusion Hybrid and new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, America's most fuel efficient luxury sedan.



The Challenge team, which included NASCAR star David Ragan and four Ford Mustang engineers, completed the challenge in 17 hours and 40 minutes, showing off the 2011 Mustang V-6's class-leading fuel economy by averaging 48.5 mpg over the course of the 776.5 miles logged during the Challenge. That distance is more than the two complete NASCAR Sprint Cup events that take place in Bristol every year.



Ragan pushed the Mustang past the 1,000-lap mark at 7:26 p.m., 12 hours and 26 minutes into the Challenge, but the car wasn't close to being out of fuel. Mustang engineer Seong Park was behind the wheel when it finally came to a halt (on the backstretch) of the famed NASCAR track at 12:41 a.m. local time.



Other Mustang Challenge team drivers included Tom Barnes, Jonathan Mehl and Carl Ek, who along with Park, rotated through one-hour driving stints during the event, which took place at the world's fastest half-mile track.



"When we hit 1,000 laps we still had a quarter of a tank of gas left," said David Ragan, driver of the No. 6 UPS Ford Fusion for Roush Fenway Racing, and the man who drove the 2011 V-6 Mustang past the 1,000 lap mark. "The last driving stint before I passed 1,000 laps I was averaging 43.7 miles a gallon and that is unbelievable. These guys have run the distance of more than two Sprint Cup races at Bristol and they still have fuel left. Congratulations to everyone behind the Mustang and to everyone at Ford, because this 2011 Mustang V-6 is really something special."



A team of Ford engineers prepared for the challenge by implementing fuel efficient driving tips like minimizing the use of air conditioning, steady and consistent driving, avoiding sudden stops/starts and by keeping the RPMs low. The engine in the Mustang is powered by a lightweight, all-aluminum 3.7-liter dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) V-6 engine that uses advanced engineering to deliver its combination of power and economy. Twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valve train in microseconds depending on driver inputs, further contributing to the engine's overall efficiency. The Mustang used in the challenge is a stock production vehicle that can be purchased through a Ford dealer.



"This is beyond our wildest dreams," said Tom Barnes, the lead engineer for the Ford Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge. "There have been a lot of people who have done a lot of things in preparing this 2011 Mustang V-6 to run the Mustang 1,000 Lap Challenge and have the success we have had today. It was great when we went past the 1,000 lap mark with David, but nobody could ever imagine that we still had five hours ahead of us. This is a fantastic feeling and it shows again what a great car the 2011 Mustang V-6 is."



More than 51,000 consumers registered their guesses for the event at www.mustang1000lapchallenge.com. One lucky consumer that correctly guessed 1,457 laps will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and will win their own 2011 Mustang V-6.

2010 Ford Focus RS Le Mans Classic Editions – five different identities [video]

Ford has just unveiled five different one-off versions of the Ford Focus RS Le Mans Classic special edition. The new special edition are meant to celebrate the French classic that takes place this year between July 9th and 11th. The number 5 was not chosen by chance. Each of the five Ford Focus RS Le Mans special model will celebrate one of the cars that brought the Blue Oval a victory in the 24 Hours classic race.

The list of five special Focus RS models will include: a black with silver stripes edition that pays tribute to a Ford Mk II, which was victorious in 1966; a red model with white stripes that is recalling the Mk IV which won in 1967; a white model with a thin blue center stripe surrounded by a red border that pays tribute to the beautiful Ford Mk IIB, entered by Ford France in the 1967 Le Mans 24-hours; a two-tone sky blue and orange edition reference to the modern GT40s which dominated Le Mans in 1968 and 1969 and a two-tone white and blue model representing the livery of the Capri RS 2600 which took the Touring category in 1972.

Each car includes four Recaro seats wrapped in stitched leather and quilted Alcantara, in contrasting colors meant to match the exteriors.  This is replicated at the gearshift, hand brake, and center arm rest.  Front seats also get the advantage of leather seat belts.

The five cars will be seen in action at the 2010 Le Mans Classic in July, and will be joined on the track by the recently released limited-edition Ford Focus RS500, whose exclusive matt black finish will be an equally eye-catching addition to the palette of colors which have fired the imaginations of countless fans of Ford and the greatest endurance race in the world.




Press Release

FORD FOCUS RS LE MANS CLASSIC: A COLLECTION OF 5 UNIQUE EXAMPLES CREATED TO PAY TRIBUTE TO LEGENDARY FORD LE MANS RACERS

Saint-Germain-en-Laye, 21 June 2010 - Ecurie Ford France, one of the partners of the popular Le Mans Classic event which takes place between July 9th and 11th, has prepared a collection of just five Focus RS cars in unique colour schemes, each paying tribute to the Ford cars which made 'blue oval' history at the Le Mans 24 Hours.

Each of the five Focus RS Le Mans Classic vehicles will be finished in the colours of one of the Ford cars which made 24 Hours history for Ford. During the event itself, they will even carry the race number of the cars to which they're paying tribute:

• Black with silver stripes: a reference to the Ford Mk II, which was victorious in 1966.
• Red with white stripes: recalling the Mk IV which won in 1967.
• White with a thin blue centre stripe surrounded by a red border: echoing the decoration of the beautiful Ford Mk IIB, entered by Ford France in the 1967 Le Mans 24-hours.
• Two-tone sky blue and orange: A modern take on the GT40s which dominated Le Mans in 1968 and 1969.
• Two-tone white and blue: representing the livery of the Capri RS 2600 which took the Touring category in 1972.

All five exclusive Focus RS vehicles also have customised interiors. The Recaro seats are upholstered in leather and diamond-quilted alcantara, front and back, with stitching that matches the bodywork. The gearshift gaiter, hand brake handle and central arm-rest are upholstered in real leather, and a leather safety belt guide has been added to the front seats.

Each of the five cars will carry a personalised numbered plaque on the dashboard confirming its exclusivity as part of the collection.

The five cars will be seen in action at the 2010 Le Mans Classic in July, and will be driven on a number of laps of the full track at the start of a number of the different 'grid' races reserved for cars of a particular era, with Ford-invited special guests and VIPs at the wheel.

The Focus RS Le Mans Classic units will be joined on the track by the limited edition Ford Focus RS500, whose futuristic matt black livery will be an equally eye-catching addition to the palette of colours which have fired the imaginations of countless fans of Ford and the greatest endurance race in the world.

Only Five For Sale
Once the fifth Le Mans Classic event is over, these five unique Focus RS Le Mans Classic vehicles will be put up for sale, and will be offered with exclusive accessories. Fitted with either RS(1) or RS Technology(2) packs, they will be supplied with a Le Mans Classic watch - a 3-dial automatic chronograph with large date display and sapphire background of which only 600 are to be produced.

The 5 cars to which the Ford Focus RS Le Mans Classic is paying tribute:

The Ford Mk II (victorious in 1966): on the 18th of June 1966, Henry Ford II himself gave the starting signal for the 24th Le Mans 24 Hours. He let loose a pack of fifty-five vehicles led out by two of the eight Mk IIs entered by the manufacturer plus six GT40s, including one belonging to Ford France which was driven by Guy Ligier and the American Bob Grossman. The duel with Ferrari was at its peak for this "race of the century". Unbeaten since 1960, the Italian marque was the queen of Le Mans. However, this time it was the Americans who dominated, pulling off a spectacular triple! For the first time ever, the 200km/h average speed barrier was broken at Le Mans.

The Ford Mk IV (winner in 1967): Wanting revenge, Ferrari sent its formidable 330 P4s to challenge the Mk IVs in a face-to-face battle without mercy. However, it was all in vain. The unstoppable red, white-trimmed Mk IV, piloted by Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt, wiped the floor with Lodovico Scarfiotti and Mike Parkes' P4. Unforgettable new pages in the history of motor sport were being written before everyone's eyes. The epic tale of the Mk IIs and Mk IVs concluded with the spectacular distance (5,232.9 km) and average speed (218 km/h!) records set by Ford that year.

The Ford GT40 (victorious in 1968 and 1969): Even though Ford as a manufacturer was not directly involved, John Wyer's JWA team benefitted from Gulf Oil sponsorship and the blessing of Ford Dearborn. For their first outing in 1968, the GT40s faced some keen and challenging competition from Porsche and Alfa Romeo. Driven by Pedro Rodriguez and Lucien Bianchi, the GT40 clearly dominated the field ahead of a Porsche 907 and three Alfa Romeo 33/2s. This third consecutive Ford victory was the first for a genuine GT40.

In 1969, competition was as intense and varied as ever: Porsche was in attendance with its 908s and its new 917s, Matra introduced its 630/650s and Ferrari was back again with its 312 Ps. Nevertheless, once again the GT40 beat them all, sweeping the boards at the end of an epic duel. Jacky Ickx raced across the finish line leaving the German Hans Hermann 120 metres behind and red faced at the wheel of his Porsche. The GT40 drove away with Ford's fourth consecutive victory at Le Mans!

Capri RS 2600 (1st in the Special Touring category in 1972): Tenth overall, the Capri RS 2600, driven by Gerry Birrel and Claude Bourgoignie, dominated its category during the 1972 Le Mans 24 Hours. Manufactured between 1969 and 1986, the Ford Capri enjoyed a great sporting career and was one of the great leaders of the European Touring Car Championships and the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. It also shone in the Production Cars Championship of France and the famous British Touring Car Championship. Many Formula 1 drivers distinguished themselves at the wheel of a Capri, including Jochen Mass, Hans Stuck and the Tyrrell Racing duo of Jackie Stewart and François Cevert during the 6 Hours of Paul Ricard Circuit organised in 1972. The rally version of the Capri also appeared in the colours of Ecurie Ford France with internationally renowned drivers such as Jean-François Piot, Guy Chasseuil, Jean Vinatier and Jean-Claude Gamet at the wheel.

Ford Mk II Ecurie Ford France (1967): Jo Schlesser teamed up with his friend Guy Ligier on only one occasion at Le Mans. That was in 1967, in a magnificent white Ford Mk II powered by a seven litre V8 engine. An early track exit crushed their hopes in the 13th hour. However, driving the same car, they won the last ever 12 Hours of Reims, the other former great French endurance race. Jo Schlesser, a driver with an incredibly eclectic talent, was killed during the 1968 French Grand Prix. He was one of Ecurie Ford France's most emblematic drivers, racing on track circuits, in rallies and in a famous hill climbing race of the time, the Mont-Ventoux.

(1) RS pack: Recaro front and rear seats, parking assist, heat-reflective, heated windshield, keyless entry and starting system.
(2) RS Technology pack: DVD navigation system with touchscreen and reversing camera, 8-speaker CD-MP3 player, bluetooth-2 kit, volume-sensing perimeter alarm and tyre-pressure monitoring system.

GM Backtracks On Plan To Nix Chevy Nickname [Video]

General Motors Co. on Thursday backed off a "poorly worded" internal memo that asked employees to refer to the brand only as "Chevrolet" -- not its long-standing nickname -- in an effort to create consistency.

In the original memo, employees were discouraged from using the "Chevy" nickname for the Chevrolet brand. GM later issued a statement to clarify the intention of the memo, saying that it was only meant to help establish Chevrolet as a global brand and that employees needed to be more focused in their communications in referencing the brand.

General Motors said " 'Chevy' will continue to reflect the enthusiasm of customers and fans."
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The internal memo was part of an effort to develop a consistent brand name as it establishes a significant global presence.

In a video also issued by GM to correct itself, Alan S. Batey, vice president for Chevrolet sales and service, said, "Chevy is our nickname. It comes from selling vehicles here in the U.S. for 100 years. We love it when people call us Chevy." Batey was one of the two GM officials who signed the original memo.

On Facebook, brand pages include Chevy Camaro, Chevy Silverado and Team Chevy.

General Motors also stated that they were reconsidering resurrecting the talifin. A sudden resurgence of the love for the 1959 Chevrolet is rumored to be the reason.





Press Release

Statement on the use of Chevrolet and Chevy

"Chevy" will continue to reflect the enthusiasm of customers and fans

2010-06-10 DETROIT -- Today's emotional debate over a poorly worded memo on our use of the Chevrolet brand is a good reminder of how passionately people feel about Chevrolet. It is a passion we share and one we do not take for granted.

We love Chevy. In no way are we discouraging customers or fans from using the name. We deeply appreciate the emotional connections that millions of people have for Chevrolet and its products.

In global markets, we are establishing a significant presence for Chevrolet, and need to move toward a consistent brand name for advertising and marketing purposes. The memo in question was one step in that process.

We hope people around the world will continue to fall in love with Chevrolets and smile when they call their favorite car, truck or crossover "Chevy."

Dealer Exclusive 2010 Viper SRT10s

Chrysler has announced today that it puts on sale three unique Dealer Exclusive Dodge Viper SRT10 units. The three Dealer Exclusive Dodge Viper SRT10 units are based on the 2010 version of the sportscar and are the result of an exclusive program run by the company in collaboration with 3 of its dealers.

Up first is a Race Yellow Viper SRT10 ACR Roadster designed by Woodhouse Dodge in Blair, Neb. The team at Tomball Dodge in Tomball, Texas tailored the Reverse SRT10 ACR using black and Snakeskin Green paint. Finally, there’s the SRT10 Coupe with Plum Crazy racing stripes, designed Roanoke Dodge in Roanoke, Ill.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 uses an 8.4-liter V10 engine that produces 600 hp (450 kW / 608 PS) and up to 560 lb-ft (760 Nm) of torque. After sprinting from standstill to 60 mph in under four seconds, the car is able to reach 202 mph (325 km/h).




Press Release

Dodge Announces Dealer Exclusive Program Offering Unique 2010 Viper SRT10s

June 7, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich.

The 2010 model year just got even more exclusive for the Dodge Viper. The Dodge brand is unveiling three new unique 2010 Viper SRT10 vehicles as part of its "Dealer Exclusive Program."

Dealers who sold sufficient Viper volume to qualify were given the opportunity to create their own special editions that best meet the dreams of their most loyal customers. A total of 50 cars are being built under this program, and specific combinations were determined by each Dodge dealer who volunteered to participate.

Shown here (from left to right) are the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Roadster, developed specifically with Woodhouse Dodge in Blair, Neb., featuring a Race Yellow Clear Coat exterior with yellow driver's stripe; the "Reverse SRT10 ACR" developed with Tomball Dodge in Tomball, Texas, featuring the reverse color combination of the Snakeskin Green Special Edition introduced earlier this model year; and the Black SRT10 Coupe with Plum Crazy dual racing stripes developed with Roanoke Dodge in Roanoke, Ill.

To find all of the Dodge dealers who have 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10s on order including the various special-edition models, check out the new dealer locator function at the Viper Headquarters website: http://www.viperheadquarters.com/viper_nation/dealer_locator

With this being the last model year for the current-generation Dodge Viper, 2010 continues to be the most special year of production for the 600 horsepower V-10 powered "ultimate American sports car." Approximately 500 cars will make up the 2010 model year production run, and each one is more exclusive than ever before with more than 7,000 different possible appearance combinations.

2011 Panoz Abruzzi Spirit of Le Mans

Entrepreneur Don Panoz, founder of the American Le Mans Series, has unveiled his latest automotive creation, a limited-edition 600-horsepower exotic car called the Abruzzi Spirit of Le Mans. The first of a limited run of 81 cars is slated to be delivered in 2013.

The hand-built Panoz Abruzzi Spirit of Le Mans will be built with an engine that produces over 600 horsepower (447 kW / 608 PS) and up to 590 ft-lb (799 Nm) of torque.  Developed by American niche manufacturer Panoz, the car will be limited to 81 vehicles, and is guaranteed to be street legal in Asia, Europe, Middle East and South America.

Only 81 Panoz Abruzzi Spirit of Le Mans will see the daylight, for which production will stretch on the next three years and all of the future customers will get their cars delivers at the Le Mans circuit where the automaker is also throwing in a free driving course.

The 2011 Panoz Abruzzi Spirit of Le Mans will introduce the a three-stage TRIFECTA COOLING technology that improves engine performance and efficiency. The body of the 2011 Panoz Abruzzi Spirit of Le Mans is built using the REAMS material technology - or Recyclable Energy
Absorbing Matrix System - that promises to offer environmental, performance and structural advantages.




Press Release

PANOZ MAKES HISTORY WITH ABRUZZI 'SPIRIT OF LE MANS'

New supercar quite appropriately unveiled at Le Mans

LE MANS, France - Don Panoz again has captured the Spirit of Le Mans. This time, one of the world's most forward-thinking entrepreneurs is pairing his newest automotive masterpiece with the legacy of the world's greatest auto race. The Panoz Abruzzi "Spirit of Le Mans" broke cover today at the Circuit de La Sarthe, an appropriate venue for the world debut of a ground-breaking automobile with a very appropriate delivery and acquisition program for its customers.

"This is culmination of equal parts time, effort and dreams," said Panoz, founder of the Panoz Motor Sports Group. "The Panoz brand always has prided itself on hand-building and delivering an exotic automobile and experience to our customers. Our new offering takes this to a completely new level."

The Abruzzi "Spirit of Le Mans" is more than a technological masterpiece from Panoz Auto Development (PAD), based in Hoschton, Ga. It represents a new chapter in automotive production and delivery, tied into the world's most demanding auto race.

The super sports car will be offered as a strictly limited edition. Only 81 Abruzzi "Spirit of Le Mans" vehicles will ever be produced, corresponding to the number of Le Mans 24 Hour contests between the inception of the race in 1923 and the race to be held in 2013.

Abruzzi: The Car
The hand-built Abruzzi "Spirit of Le Mans" is a unique, front-engine, rear-transaxle and rear-radiator super sports car - road-legal in Europe and many countries of Asia, the Middle East and South America. The powertrain will deliver 600-plus HP with 590 ft.-lbs. of torque. Advanced design and aerodynamics offer astounding downforce and road-holding.

Performance is just one facet that sets the Abruzzi apart from other exotics. It also breaks new ground in environmental design and construction starting with the unprecedented implementation of the R.E.A.M.S.® - Recyclable Energy Absorbing Matrix System - body system that offers environmental, performance and structural advantages like no other automobile body system on the planet. Never used before on any road-going automobile, the multi-layer composite system is lighter than carbon fiber yet equally strong. Unlike carbon fiber however, it is dent-resistant, shatter-proof and recyclable.

Abruzzi also introduces TRIFECTACOOLING® technology. In addition to a normal high-efficiency radiator, there are stage two and stage three systems that lower coolant temperature on both the inflow to and the outflow from the radiator.

"These are advancements that will open up a new era of automotive design," Panoz said. "Dating back to our first road car - the AIV Roadster - PAD has been a believer in efficient construction and design. This philosophy continues with our Abruzzi."

Abruzzi: The Experience
The Panoz Abruzzi harkens back to a day where drivers would pilot their cars to Le Mans, race it twice around the clock then drive back home. It essentially captures the "Spirit of Le Mans" with a never-before-seen acquisition program that sets a new standard for personalization and delivery.

Given the roots of Panoz's automotive dreams, it is only appropriate that the Abruzzi "Spirit of Le Mans" will be delivered to its owners at the famed Circuit de la Sarthe, shipped directly there from the Panoz factory. Each automobile will be linked to a specific Le Mans 24 Hour race, with the chassis number also containing that specific race date and the initials of the winning drivers and the history of that year.

Professional drivers will instruct owners in driving the car on the Bugatti Circuit at Le Mans. Service and repairs also will be attended to at the ACO facilities of the Circuit 24 Hours of Le Mans.

New vehicle owners also will be invited to the 24 Hours of Le Mans as guests of the ACO and Panoz at the ACO's hospitality facilities in the "Model Sportif" at the circuit. New owners also will have the unique opportunity to drive a parade lap of the full 8.3-mile circuit at that year's event.

During the Le Mans race week a "Spirit of Le Mans" reception will be held at the clubhouse of the famed Golf Des 24 Heuers in the historic town of Arnage. The new owners for that year will be the guests of the ACO officials and past "Spirit of Le Mans" award winners such as Jacky Ickx and Derek Bell.

"Being associated with the ACO and Le Mans is something very special to me," Panoz said. "Being able to stand side-by-side with the heroes and legends of Le Mans gives me a sense of appreciation and passion for this grand event. I felt it was important to give our customers the same experience, and I am grateful to our partners at the ACO for helping make this happen."

Panoz Auto Development produces leading-edge, fully certified automobiles and is best known for the first US-manufactured AIV (Aluminum Intensive Vehicle) - the Panoz AIV Roadster. The Panoz Esperante body and chassis also extensively employs aluminum for performance, safety and efficiency. The Panoz Esperante GTLM earned world-famous stature as a race car by winning the GT2 category at both the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a single year - 2006.

2011 Saleen S302 debuts this weekend

The first Saleen vehicle launched this year, following the successful launches of the 435S and S281 in 2009, is the 2011 Saleen S302, which will make its official debut this weekend at the Carlisle Ford Nationals. Based on the 2011 Ford Mustang 5.0, the S302 is available in both coupe and convertible body styles

The performance machine is based on Ford’s latest 5.0-liter Mustang GT but picks up a performance air filter and exhaust to liberate a total 425 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 395 pound-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm. Drive is sent rearward via a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential. Stopping power comes from 12.4 inch vented discs up front and smaller 11.8 inch discs out the back.

Exterior features include 20-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli P-Zero high-performance tyres, a strong but elegant front grille and a simple integrated rear wing.

For its interior, the S302 has leather sport seats with Ultrasuede inserts, chevron-like Ultrasuede red tabs in the seatback bolsters, and it also offers unique treatments of the gauges, steering wheel, center console and shifter. Contrasting Saleen logos are seen in the door panels. The door sill plates also have Saleen logos that illuminate when the door is opened.

This speedy ride is equipped with safety features such as Advance Trac with Electronic Stability Control, dual-stage front airbags, front seat side-impact airbags, SOS post-crash alert system, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system, LATCH child seat system, remote keyless entry, and illuminated entry.





Press Release

Saleen Performance Vehicles is unveiling the latest product in its premiere line of high-performance cars, the 2011 Saleen S302. The debut will take place this weekend at the Carlisle Ford Nationals in Carlisle, PA. This is the first Saleen vehicle launched this year, following the successful launches of the 435S and S281 in 2009.

The Saleen S302 is based on the 2011 Ford Mustang 5.0 and builds on the Saleen tradition of offering limited-edition, high-performance vehicles for enthusiasts who are looking for an exhilarating driving experience, with refined drivability for real-world road conditions.

Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, the S302 boasts a premium level of design consideration, both exterior and interior, with performance to match.

"We've taken high performance vehicles to the next level with this S302 Saleen," said Michael Timarac, Brand Manager, Saleen Performance Vehicles. "The S302 is being built now and will be in dealerships in the coming weeks. I'm proud of this product and those who value performance vehicles will agree that the S302 is one of the best American exotic vehicles available on the market."

The S302's exterior design features carefully crafted sculptural detailing, with lines and forms that flow naturally and suggest suppleness, power and agility. It features an understated yet imposing grille and front fascia, and a refined treatment of the familiar Saleen extended rear fascia and trunk lid with a simple, elegant, integrated wing.

The S302's 5.0-liter V8 engine produces 425 hp and 395 lb.-ft. of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential with 3.73:1 final drive ratio.

The interior features new, leather sport seats with Ultrasuede inserts, highlighted by chevron-like Ultrasuede red tabs in the seatback bolsters, and unique treatments of the gauges, steering wheel, center console and shifter. There also are contrasting Saleen logos in the door panels, and Saleen logos in the door sill plates that illuminate when the door is opened.

Additional exterior highlights include unique, 20-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli P-Zero high-performance tires, and Saleen S302 fender badging.

About Saleen Performance Vehicles

Saleen Performance Vehicles is a manufacturer of limited-edition, high-performance cars and trucks, headquartered in Troy, Michigan. Saleen vehicles embody sophistication in engineering, styling and performance, resulting in a dynamic driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. For more information, please visit the Saleen Performance Vehicles website at www.saleen.com.