http://www.autoevolution.com/coverstory/ Coverstory - autoevolution autoevolution RSS Generator en-us autoevolution.com Mon, 22 Mar 2010 08:35:32 +0000 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 08:35:32 +0000 automotive http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 10 http://www.autoevolution.com/favicon.ico http://www.autoevolution.com/img/ae_logo.jpg?v=3 http://www.autoevolution.com/coverstory/ http://www.autoevolution.com/news/high-speed-trains-steam-20-18277.html
In the context of railways, however, t...]]> Railways are the first means of public transportation and ever since the first train left the station, authorities around the world, together with companies and transportation departments, have strived to raise efficiency and costs. And these two aspects were indeed improved a lot but as time passed by efficiency easily became speed, which is actually the essence of public transportation: getting you from point A to point B in the shortest possible time.

In the context of railways, however, t... (read more)]]> Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:02:07 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/high-speed-trains-steam-20-18277.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/high-speed-trains-steam-20-18277.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/turbocharged-engines-in-formula-one-18108.html
The engine freeze introduced by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) in recent years has led to engine development being almost completely scrapped, with the teams being forced to direct their work on ...]]> We all know what Formula One cars are capable of nowadays, as there isn't a machine out there that can lap a circuit faster than an F1 single-seater. Obviously, we have to thank the engine suppliers for that, as the V8 engine of an F1 car currently develops some 750 HP (more or less).

The engine freeze introduced by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) in recent years has led to engine development being almost completely scrapped, with the teams being forced to direct their work on ... (read more)]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:06:04 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/turbocharged-engines-in-formula-one-18108.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/turbocharged-engines-in-formula-one-18108.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/autostadt-volkswagens-car-city-17939.html
In its ten years of existence, the Autostadt has attracted more than 20 million visitors, an average of 2 million visitor...]]> Some ten years ago, Volkswagen made the decision to build an automobile themed park that would strengthen the ties between German carmaker Volkswagen and its customers and also to attract potential buyers to the brand. Dubbed Autostadt, the car city in Wolfsburg quickly became a vital part among the German travel destinations and one of the biggest employers in the region.

In its ten years of existence, the Autostadt has attracted more than 20 million visitors, an average of 2 million visitor... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:00:36 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/autostadt-volkswagens-car-city-17939.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/autostadt-volkswagens-car-city-17939.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/when-classics-return-hispano-suiza-interview-17815.html If there are any pre-war classics fans out there, then you are probably already aware that a historical car brand has been recently revived (again) at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show. We say "again" because the Hispano-Suiza brand had been previously brought back from the dead in the early 2000s. More specifically, the Spanish Hispano-Suiza HS21 GTS concept was being unveiled at the 2002 Geneva Auto Show, but without having even a 1% chance of ever making it into production. Which naturally,... (read more)]]> Tue, 9 Mar 2010 13:25:10 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/when-classics-return-hispano-suiza-interview-17815.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/when-classics-return-hispano-suiza-interview-17815.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/segways-living-the-future-17638.html
A device called the Segway Human Transporter is confident it can solve all these pro...]]> Traveling from point A to point B with minimum costs (which in our days basically means very low fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions) is the main priority for most automakers these days. In other words, developing green means of transportation is the primary objective and, although some of them are claiming they have found the solution, the answer comes from a different side of the automotive industry.

A device called the Segway Human Transporter is confident it can solve all these pro... (read more)]]> Thu, 4 Mar 2010 14:30:00 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/segways-living-the-future-17638.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/segways-living-the-future-17638.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-geneva-motor-show-the-birthplace-of-new-cars-for-105-years-17114.html  
Now regarded as one of the best, most comprehensive and large auto events in the world, the Geneva Motor Show is also the single annual auto event of its magnitude in Europe. It does not only presents advancements from only one segment of the industry,...]]> The cameras are packed, the people are ready and planes are fueled. Less then two weeks from now, on March 4, 2010, the 80th edition of the international Geneva Motor Show will kick off, just as it consistently did year after year since 1905.
 
Now regarded as one of the best, most comprehensive and large auto events in the world, the Geneva Motor Show is also the single annual auto event of its magnitude in Europe. It does not only presents advancements from only one segment of the industry,... (read more)]]> Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:23:02 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-geneva-motor-show-the-birthplace-of-new-cars-for-105-years-17114.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-geneva-motor-show-the-birthplace-of-new-cars-for-105-years-17114.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/robots-the-movie-industry-s-version-16402.html
Their endeavors, however, are a start. We envision it would be much more easier for car manufacturers to expand in the field of robotics in the years to come (both because t...]]> In the last couple of months, two car manufacturers presented their latest projects in the field of robotics, a field in which they don't usually perform their day-to-day activities. We are talking here about the Japanese from Toyota and the Americans from GM, who both endeavored in a realm still some tens of years away.

Their endeavors, however, are a start. We envision it would be much more easier for car manufacturers to expand in the field of robotics in the years to come (both because t... (read more)]]> Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:18:16 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/robots-the-movie-industry-s-version-16402.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/robots-the-movie-industry-s-version-16402.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-599-hybrid-the-fallen-angel-jumpstarting-ego-eco-carpocalypse-16334.html The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is not a fire-breathing devil as many have described it... but it will become one - in a bad way. The 599 came from above as an archangel. It can take human passengers under its gentle Grand Tourer arms and almost fulfill one of man's most ancient dreams... flight. But being much more than a simple angel the 599 will also zap anything in its (driver's) way when necessary. Any road creature which dares to disobey will be sent straight to its rear-view mirror instantly.... (read more)]]> Thu, 4 Feb 2010 12:08:08 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-599-hybrid-the-fallen-angel-jumpstarting-ego-eco-carpocalypse-16334.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-599-hybrid-the-fallen-angel-jumpstarting-ego-eco-carpocalypse-16334.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bonneville-speedway-home-of-the-land-speed-world-records-15829.html A point of interest for commercial producers and racing drivers only, the Bonneville Speedway has been the venue for numerous land speed records for nearly one century. The following description is probably the best translation into words of what the Bonnevile Salt Flats stand for: Imagine a place so flat you seem to see the curvature of the planet, so barren not even the simplest life forms can exist. Imagine the passing thunder of strange vehicles hurtling by on a vast dazzling white plain. T... (read more)]]> Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:36:36 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bonneville-speedway-home-of-the-land-speed-world-records-15829.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bonneville-speedway-home-of-the-land-speed-world-records-15829.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/garbage-trucks-trash-and-cash-15716.html
Oddly as it may seem, garbage trucks have quite a reputation. While madly googling "g...]]> As you have gotten used to by know, we here at autoevolution write just about everything even remotely connected to the automotive world. That includes, at times, writing about some really unpleasant (even nasty) things, like the piece here. As you read in the title, this little writing is about garbage or, to be more precise, the tools which make garbage magically disappear from sight: garbage trucks.

Oddly as it may seem, garbage trucks have quite a reputation. While madly googling "g... (read more)]]> Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:00:17 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/garbage-trucks-trash-and-cash-15716.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/garbage-trucks-trash-and-cash-15716.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/flying-cars-we-ll-never-live-to-see-them-15356.html
As you may have figured it out, the Amphicar was a car designed to operate on water without drowning its occupants (hence the "amphi" particle in...]]> Sometime during the last month of 2009, when just about all of us began contemplating anything but work or auto industry cover stories and guides, we here at autoevolution thought of bringing you a little something about the Amphicar, or "the fastest car on water, the fastest boat on land," as one of its owners liked to call it.

As you may have figured it out, the Amphicar was a car designed to operate on water without drowning its occupants (hence the "amphi" particle in... (read more)]]> Tue, 12 Jan 2010 15:35:19 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/flying-cars-we-ll-never-live-to-see-them-15356.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/flying-cars-we-ll-never-live-to-see-them-15356.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lights-camera-action-2009-motorcycling-wrap-up-report-14979.html
INDUSTRY - The Two-Wheeled Vort...]]> The motorcycle industry rode on an extremely rough road in 2009, but we must say the road certainly was not short on surprises for all two-wheeled fans out there. We've had it all this year: ups and downs, amazing innovations and striking concepts. Despite the tough economy and slow sales, most motorcycle manufacturers somehow managed to reach the surface and take a deep breath before getting back to swim in the troubled waters of the global financial crisis.

INDUSTRY - The Two-Wheeled Vort... (read more)]]> Wed, 30 Dec 2009 14:18:31 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lights-camera-action-2009-motorcycling-wrap-up-report-14979.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lights-camera-action-2009-motorcycling-wrap-up-report-14979.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/making-of-autoevolution-test-drives-picture-galore-14953.html
One year, lots of fun, sweat and inherent problems later, here we are with a small data base consisting of thirty test drives (among much more, of course), so we thought we might as well give you a gli...]]> If you didn't come here following a link from the "autoevolution Behind the Scenes/Anniversary" editorial, let us break it down for you. Back in December 2008, the autoevolution.com website was coming alive, albeit not in the "Frankenstein - It's aliiive!" sense, naturally.

One year, lots of fun, sweat and inherent problems later, here we are with a small data base consisting of thirty test drives (among much more, of course), so we thought we might as well give you a gli... (read more)]]> Tue, 29 Dec 2009 17:09:27 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/making-of-autoevolution-test-drives-picture-galore-14953.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/making-of-autoevolution-test-drives-picture-galore-14953.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2009-auto-industry-wrap-up-14948.html CHAPTER 2: CHRYSLER AND FIAT - A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN
CHAPTER 3: FORD - THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD    
CHAPTER 4: PORSCHE AND VOLKSWAGEN - DAVID MEETS GOLIATH
CHAPTER 5: TOYOTA AND HONDA- THE JAPANESE SURPRISES
CHAPTER 6: BMW AND DAIMLER - HOLDING THEIR LINES
CHAPTER 7: RENAULT AND NISSAN - ZERO EMISSIONS APPROACH
CHAPTER 8: HYUNDAI AND KIA - CHEAPER, BUT BETTER
CHAPTER 9: THE PATH THAT LIES AHEAD

It's a wrap, movie directors say when they get ...]]> CHAPTER 1: GM - THE NEVERENDING STORY
CHAPTER 2: CHRYSLER AND FIAT - A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN
CHAPTER 3: FORD - THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD    
CHAPTER 4: PORSCHE AND VOLKSWAGEN - DAVID MEETS GOLIATH
CHAPTER 5: TOYOTA AND HONDA- THE JAPANESE SURPRISES
CHAPTER 6: BMW AND DAIMLER - HOLDING THEIR LINES
CHAPTER 7: RENAULT AND NISSAN - ZERO EMISSIONS APPROACH
CHAPTER 8: HYUNDAI AND KIA - CHEAPER, BUT BETTER
CHAPTER 9: THE PATH THAT LIES AHEAD

It's a wrap, movie directors say when they get ... (read more)]]> Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:02:08 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2009-auto-industry-wrap-up-14948.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2009-auto-industry-wrap-up-14948.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/pioneering-women-motorcyclists-14645.html
Refusing to be held down by the limitations society placed on women of that era, the persons you are about to read in the article below were and are thought to be some of the most important pioneers in women's riding.

Adeline and Au...]]> Although it's traditionally considered to be an activity dominated by men, more and more women are choosing to take the open road on a motorcycle, regardless of its type. But have you wondered who were the women who paved the way for modern-day female riders?

Refusing to be held down by the limitations society placed on women of that era, the persons you are about to read in the article below were and are thought to be some of the most important pioneers in women's riding.

Adeline and Au... (read more)]]> Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:05:28 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/pioneering-women-motorcyclists-14645.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/pioneering-women-motorcyclists-14645.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/outlaw-motorcycle-gangs-live-hard-die-free-14383.html
The US, because here is where...]]> Portrayed in countless films and movies, feared by those who crossed their paths and admired by countless others, biker gangs, or, as law enforcement agencies call them, motorcycle gangs, have created over time a world of their own. A world unlike any other in the criminal universe, an original world, with rules created from scrap and life principles most of us would find difficult to live by. A world where nothing but honor and the allegiance to the club matter.

The US, because here is where... (read more)]]> Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:48:35 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/outlaw-motorcycle-gangs-live-hard-die-free-14383.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/outlaw-motorcycle-gangs-live-hard-die-free-14383.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/gordini-dead-brand-alive-14277.html
Gordini traces its roots to 1899 when Amadeo Gordini was born in Bazzano near Bologna. His bright future in...]]> If you're one of the guys interested in motorsports, the Gordini nameplate surely rings a bell to you, as it is often considered one of the most iconic brands that ever existed. Fortunately, Gordini came back from the dead this year after Renault decided to take full advantage of the name and launch a new series of cars bearing the Gordini designation. But let's take them one at a time.

Gordini traces its roots to 1899 when Amadeo Gordini was born in Bazzano near Bologna. His bright future in... (read more)]]> Wed, 9 Dec 2009 14:48:51 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/gordini-dead-brand-alive-14277.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/gordini-dead-brand-alive-14277.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/amphicar-the-fastest-car-on-water-the-fastest-boat-on-land-14046.html
It was called the Amphicar and, as the name suggests, it was an amphibious vehicle that could easily travel over land and through water. Considered by many the single mass produced non-military amphibious vehicle ever made and by few one of the ugli...]]> We are not sure how many of you out there reading this know that, sometime in the history of the automobile, a strange hybrid vehicle crawled its way into the public eye, bringing with it a concept so simple no one really thought about it before.

It was called the Amphicar and, as the name suggests, it was an amphibious vehicle that could easily travel over land and through water. Considered by many the single mass produced non-military amphibious vehicle ever made and by few one of the ugli... (read more)]]> Thu, 3 Dec 2009 15:27:15 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/amphicar-the-fastest-car-on-water-the-fastest-boat-on-land-14046.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/amphicar-the-fastest-car-on-water-the-fastest-boat-on-land-14046.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/exclusive-interview-with-mercedes-benz-s-head-of-design-gorden-wagener-13806.html
To get you guys better acquainted with his work you should probably learn that he is the responsible designer for the CLS, SL (R230 facelift), second generation SLK, SLR McLaren and the latest "Mercedes-Benz Sil...]]> Gorden Wagener is one of the youngest (if not the youngest) chiefs of design in the automotive world. He became the head honcho of Mercedes-Benz's design division in the beginning of 2008, when he was just 39 years old, therefore replacing the venerable Professor Peter Pfeiffer.

To get you guys better acquainted with his work you should probably learn that he is the responsible designer for the CLS, SL (R230 facelift), second generation SLK, SLR McLaren and the latest "Mercedes-Benz Sil... (read more)]]> Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:59:39 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/exclusive-interview-with-mercedes-benz-s-head-of-design-gorden-wagener-13806.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/exclusive-interview-with-mercedes-benz-s-head-of-design-gorden-wagener-13806.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/route-66-the-legend-road-13523.html
The American Route 66 (also known as The Mother Road, the Will Rogers Highway, the Main Street of America ...]]> We are sure those with a passion for the automotive world can tell us, by heart and at a moment's notice, at least five people who in time have become somewhat of road legends. If, however, we ask them to name at least three legend roads, we are sure most of them will have a difficult time finding the appropriate answers. The reason for that is very simple: there is only one legend road.

The American Route 66 (also known as The Mother Road, the Will Rogers Highway, the Main Street of America ... (read more)]]> Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:09:03 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/route-66-the-legend-road-13523.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/route-66-the-legend-road-13523.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-andretti-legacy-in-american-motor-racing-13247.html
The fun part about his first steps in motor racing was the fact that his parents di...]]> When deciding to leave Italy for the American dream back in 1955, Mario Andretti unknowingly made the first step towards what was later to become the most important and successful dynasty in North American motor racing. The naturalized American began racing his brother in the 1959 on oval dirt tracks near his hometown Nazareth (PA) and ended up winning races in all major motorsport series throughout the world.

The fun part about his first steps in motor racing was the fact that his parents di... (read more)]]> Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:59:51 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-andretti-legacy-in-american-motor-racing-13247.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-andretti-legacy-in-american-motor-racing-13247.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/road-traffic-history-before-the-streets-got-swamped-12954.html
All fine and dandy, but there is one little aspect we haven't talked about until now. One in the absence of which cars would be reduced to simple pieces of furniture, or to extravagant works of art. An aspect which does not exist in physical form...]]> If you have kept an eye out for our cover stories, you know by now we've written about cars, designers, brands, extra-terrestrial vehicles, cars and movies, cars and criminals, cars and police, electric cars, dead cars, future cars, beautiful cars...

All fine and dandy, but there is one little aspect we haven't talked about until now. One in the absence of which cars would be reduced to simple pieces of furniture, or to extravagant works of art. An aspect which does not exist in physical form... (read more)]]> Fri, 6 Nov 2009 15:22:08 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/road-traffic-history-before-the-streets-got-swamped-12954.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/road-traffic-history-before-the-streets-got-swamped-12954.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/saturn-end-of-a-different-kind-of-car-company-12665.html
"As a result of PAG's decision, we will be winding down the Saturn brand." This is how GM de...]]> Rarely in the automotive industry has a punch-line characterized the philosophy behind a brand better than the tag line chosen by Saturn's advertising people in its early days. Although aware that the phrase has been used and over used, especially this year, we feel there's no other words out there which can better describe the reasons behind Saturn's creation and its recently sealed fate. 

"As a result of PAG's decision, we will be winding down the Saturn brand." This is how GM de... (read more)]]> Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:42:33 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/saturn-end-of-a-different-kind-of-car-company-12665.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/saturn-end-of-a-different-kind-of-car-company-12665.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/great-motorsport-celebrations-12502.html Many times throughout the 2009 Formula One season, some of you might have heard Bernie Ecclestone ask drivers and organizers of the F1 environment to spice up things for the fans. And he didn't necessarily mean more overtaking or thrilling battles on track - although this would definitely help - but getting the fans more involved in the process of racing. Being close to them, addressing them more often, either via more driver-fan sessions prior or during an F1 event, or via a breathtaking celebr... (read more)]]> Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:25:57 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/great-motorsport-celebrations-12502.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/great-motorsport-celebrations-12502.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/police-cars-one-century-of-chasing-crime-12273.html
But at least they try and, as technology advances, the means employed by police departments get better and better. So much so that, since the advent of the automobile, the police car for instance kept evolvi...]]> One could say that after over a century of chasing crime in an organized form, police should have caught up with it by now. Yet, no matter the means, man power or techniques used to combat crime, law enforcement agencies have never really managed to wipe out that which they fight against.

But at least they try and, as technology advances, the means employed by police departments get better and better. So much so that, since the advent of the automobile, the police car for instance kept evolvi... (read more)]]> Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:32:31 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/police-cars-one-century-of-chasing-crime-12273.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/police-cars-one-century-of-chasing-crime-12273.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/road-trains-multi-wheeled-freaks-11977.html
The sight of a smoky, dust disturbing creature in the distance in the Great Outback is enough of a sign to tell you you're about to see the mother of all trucks passing by.

The tractor head - simple, powerful, just as any other tractor head. ...]]> If you ever thought that being overtaken on a highway by a speeding truck is a spooky experience, you haven't met these monsters. Whereas trucks are a common sight on European, American or Asian roads, in Australia the story goes a little different.

The sight of a smoky, dust disturbing creature in the distance in the Great Outback is enough of a sign to tell you you're about to see the mother of all trucks passing by.

The tractor head - simple, powerful, just as any other tractor head. ... (read more)]]> Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:40:41 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/road-trains-multi-wheeled-freaks-11977.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/road-trains-multi-wheeled-freaks-11977.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/afsluitdijk-cruising-over-water-11817.html
But the Netherlands is hosting what...]]> Countries around the globe and more specifically, governments and ministries of transportation, are continuously building new infrastructure for traveling, together with new means of transportation that could benefit from them. Investing millions of dollars into a new highway or city roads is one of the main tasks for lots of officials across the world but up until now, only a few, healthy countries have actually managed to create the needed infrastructure.

But the Netherlands is hosting what... (read more)]]> Thu, 8 Oct 2009 14:21:34 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/afsluitdijk-cruising-over-water-11817.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/afsluitdijk-cruising-over-water-11817.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fifty-years-of-iihs-safety-research-11605.html Safety comes first.... at least nowadays. We now see how year after year every carmaker in the world is constantly improving safety features for its vehicles. Today, they not only battle on offering consumers a variety of infotainment systems, increasing comfort and the latest technology features, but they also work on improving both the passive and the active safety. The safety belt, for example, took a long while until being considered a must-have. This progress in giving their best to protect... (read more)]]> Fri, 2 Oct 2009 15:03:07 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fifty-years-of-iihs-safety-research-11605.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fifty-years-of-iihs-safety-research-11605.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/rise-of-the-sport-utility-vehicle-11515.html
The strange combination between a family car and a pure bread off-roader has become so appealing that today, there is no single manufacturer who does not have, or at least that doesn't plan to have an SUV in its line-up.

Ever wondered w...]]> With a little under three decades of history behind it, the mass production Sport Utility Vehicle, or SUV, as the class is known today, has grown from a car built with a specific consumer group in mind to one of the most sought after vehicles on the road.

The strange combination between a family car and a pure bread off-roader has become so appealing that today, there is no single manufacturer who does not have, or at least that doesn't plan to have an SUV in its line-up.

Ever wondered w... (read more)]]> Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:01:43 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/rise-of-the-sport-utility-vehicle-11515.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/rise-of-the-sport-utility-vehicle-11515.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferry-porsche-the-eponym-of-porsche-sports-cars-11314.html It was 100 years ago that the son of automotive engineer and constructor Ferdinand Porsche and his wife Aloisia was born in Wiener Neustadt, Austria. Ferdinand Anton Ernst Ferry Porsche proudly took his father's legacy to higher grounds, as today his name is mentioned together with other great automobile men, such as Gottlieb Daimler, Carl Benz, Henry Ford or Enzo Ferrari. It is thanks to Ferry that Porsche Automobiles became an independent car manufacturer presenting the first sports car to bea... (read more)]]> Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:00:55 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferry-porsche-the-eponym-of-porsche-sports-cars-11314.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferry-porsche-the-eponym-of-porsche-sports-cars-11314.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/nascar-team-haulers-10993.html
Unlike the trucks used to transport Formula 1 cars in Europe, NASCAR team haulers (the name given to the trucks used to transport the ca...]]> Slow, big, incapable to perform burnouts and very often a dreaded sight for Prius owners...If you are an American, or at least a NASCAR fan, you would know what a team hauler is. If you are neither, you have two choices: you either go and turn the Earth upside down to find a copy of "Days of Thunder," or you let us tell you a little bit about them.

Unlike the trucks used to transport Formula 1 cars in Europe, NASCAR team haulers (the name given to the trucks used to transport the ca... (read more)]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:41:08 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/nascar-team-haulers-10993.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/nascar-team-haulers-10993.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/dictators-favorite-rides-10538.html
As none of them liked being judged by what happened behind the scenes in their Utopian countries, dic...]]> The fascination with power is the main attribute of a dictator, yet it is the way in which each of them choose to exert that power which made them unique. Whether we are talking about Adolf Hitler, the man who fooled the world into engaging into the bloodiest conflict Earth has ever seen, or the controversial Nicolae Ceausescu, dictators have always been the image of their respective nations.

As none of them liked being judged by what happened behind the scenes in their Utopian countries, dic... (read more)]]> Thu, 3 Sep 2009 14:46:55 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/dictators-favorite-rides-10538.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/dictators-favorite-rides-10538.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/world-s-most-dangerous-roads-10190.html
As most drivers out there seldom take their car outside the city they live and ...]]> In the very beginning of our driving careers, most of us feel the road that takes us from home to the office and back must be the most daunting, challenging, life-threatening stretch of tarmac known to man. Countless dangers lurk at every corner: pedestrians, cars, trucks, trams, traffic lights, traffic signs, traffic rules, traffic cops, horns honking, drivers cursing, one way... Why on earth did I took the exam?

As most drivers out there seldom take their car outside the city they live and ... (read more)]]> Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:07:48 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/world-s-most-dangerous-roads-10190.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/world-s-most-dangerous-roads-10190.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-most-outstanding-rookie-performances-in-f1-10076.html
He came into Formula One as a star. The publicity around him was huge, as he was the very first black driver to ever set foot into the Great Circle. He won every championship he participated in on his way to Formula One. And he was about to partner the two-time champion that ended Michael Schumacher's dictatorship in Formula One in consecutive years, McLaren's newly-signed Fernando Alonso.

But he coped with the pressure in the best way possible. He stepped on the podium in h...]]> Lewis Hamilton

He came into Formula One as a star. The publicity around him was huge, as he was the very first black driver to ever set foot into the Great Circle. He won every championship he participated in on his way to Formula One. And he was about to partner the two-time champion that ended Michael Schumacher's dictatorship in Formula One in consecutive years, McLaren's newly-signed Fernando Alonso.

But he coped with the pressure in the best way possible. He stepped on the podium in h... (read more)]]> Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:26:33 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-most-outstanding-rookie-performances-in-f1-10076.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-most-outstanding-rookie-performances-in-f1-10076.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-comebacks-in-motorsports-9649.html
When people remember the horrific accident suffered by Alex Zanardi in 2001, they probably think of it as fate. The American Memorial 500 at EuroSpeedway Lausitz took place only 4 days after the September 11, 2001 attacks, being the first major motor racing event after the terrorist act. It wasn't supposed to be run in the first place, but the Champ Car organizers decided to hold the event anyway as a tribute to the American people.

Zanardi had every reason to be happy in the ...]]> Alex Zanardi

When people remember the horrific accident suffered by Alex Zanardi in 2001, they probably think of it as fate. The American Memorial 500 at EuroSpeedway Lausitz took place only 4 days after the September 11, 2001 attacks, being the first major motor racing event after the terrorist act. It wasn't supposed to be run in the first place, but the Champ Car organizers decided to hold the event anyway as a tribute to the American people.

Zanardi had every reason to be happy in the ... (read more)]]> Fri, 7 Aug 2009 14:39:39 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-comebacks-in-motorsports-9649.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-comebacks-in-motorsports-9649.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/50-years-of-three-point-safety-belt-9552.html Some people think that safety belts are a gift from God, as they play a major role in the safety of both the driver and the passengers of any vehicle. Nevertheless, others are just ignoring the campaigns, the advices and more importantly, the statistics that point to the deaths of thousands of drivers who didn't wear the safety belt. Even with the statistics some people refuse to wear it.  The reason? They find it uncomfortable or because it is just cooler to drive without wearing it. This is us... (read more)]]> Wed, 5 Aug 2009 14:39:14 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/50-years-of-three-point-safety-belt-9552.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/50-years-of-three-point-safety-belt-9552.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-tree-killers-9308.html
But some people do not even care ab...]]> The automotive sector is now struggling to cope with what seems to be one of the most difficult periods of all times and how else could they tackle the recession if not by offering consumers what they need the most: fuel-efficient cars. As we're sure you know, everybody's now fighting to develop the most efficient and environmentally-friendly engine, alongside hybrids and electric cars, often regarded as the best way to stay on the safe side of the economy.

But some people do not even care ab... (read more)]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:45:17 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-tree-killers-9308.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-10-tree-killers-9308.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hot-rod-history-9087.html
What not all of us know is that hot rods pre-date American icons found under the "muscle" and "pony" designations. In fact, hot rods came to be with the very fi...]]> With all the TV reality-shows now on the market, it has become all but impossible not to at least notice these oversized, overpowered monsters on wheels. Defined, usually, by their retro-look covering the state-of-the-art mechanics and engineering, hot rods have become a trademark in almost every tuner's line-up.

What not all of us know is that hot rods pre-date American icons found under the "muscle" and "pony" designations. In fact, hot rods came to be with the very fi... (read more)]]> Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:20:54 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hot-rod-history-9087.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hot-rod-history-9087.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-mugen-motorsports-8992.html
Mugen is mostly focused on tuning Honda engines that could be used on street-legal models but the company has also...]]> Sport divisions are often partially, and sometimes entirely, owned by the automakers they tweak cars for, which allow the companies to closely collaborate on the projects they work on. But Mugen Motorsports is a bit different than the others as the sport unit is not owned by Honda, despite the fact that all its creations are based on models developed by the Japanese manufacturer.

Mugen is mostly focused on tuning Honda engines that could be used on street-legal models but the company has also... (read more)]]> Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:11:58 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-mugen-motorsports-8992.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-mugen-motorsports-8992.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/monster-truck-icon-bigfoot-8778.html
It was around that time when the American taste for pick-up trucks and their ability to do more than just carry people and load from p...]]> In only some 40 years, the monster truck has become one of the most tasty, appealing side dish of the automotive industry. Since all automobile enthusiasts can't help drooling when hearing about huge engine power, enormous torque or big chunks of rubber ravishing the ground, putting all that into a single package was the logical step to make back in the '70s.

It was around that time when the American taste for pick-up trucks and their ability to do more than just carry people and load from p... (read more)]]> Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:40:08 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/monster-truck-icon-bigfoot-8778.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/monster-truck-icon-bigfoot-8778.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/john-zachary-delorean-the-detroit-dream-merchant-8420.html Nicknamed by People Weekly as the "Auto Prince" John Delorean is the guy who was almost single-handedly responsible for bringing power to the masses in 1964, by being instrumental in the launch of the first ever true muscle-car, the Pontiac GTO. He is also the guy whose most famous creation, the DMC-12, encrusted itself into the wet dreams of almost every teenager of the 1980s. The car's addition as a time-traveling sidekick to the "Marty" character from the "Back to the... (read more)]]> Fri, 3 Jul 2009 16:37:12 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/john-zachary-delorean-the-detroit-dream-merchant-8420.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/john-zachary-delorean-the-detroit-dream-merchant-8420.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/armored-trucks-8372.html
We all see them on the streets, passing by with God knows how much money hidden in their bellies. For some, such a sight stirs a wave of adrenaline which leads to Mutulu Shakur-like behavior. For others, they only create the need to see "T...]]> One of Hollywood's favorites, the armored truck is one of those inventions which would easily fit into the "boys and toys" category. Three thrill-giving concepts meet in only one idea - armor, money and truck (not necessarily in that order).

We all see them on the streets, passing by with God knows how much money hidden in their bellies. For some, such a sight stirs a wave of adrenaline which leads to Mutulu Shakur-like behavior. For others, they only create the need to see "T... (read more)]]> Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:29:58 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/armored-trucks-8372.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/armored-trucks-8372.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/d-maximum-payload-iz-moar-important-than-speed-8304.html
First of all, we must excu...]]> So we went to an Isuzu rally last week. Before jumping to any sudden conclusions, let us first say that by "rally" we mean "to come together for a common purpose". Although, come to think of it, driving with a copilot through some rain-drenched woods full of mud or trying to get a two and half tonne all-wheel drive truck to drift on a serpentine road isn't that far of what you'd expect from the OTHER kind of rally you might have first thought...

First of all, we must excu... (read more)]]> Wed, 1 Jul 2009 09:36:35 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/d-maximum-payload-iz-moar-important-than-speed-8304.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/d-maximum-payload-iz-moar-important-than-speed-8304.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/police-motorcycles-8235.html
Motorcycles also tend to consume less fuel than police cars, which saves...]]> The use of motorcycles by various police forces and departments all over the world proved to be one of the most efficient choice through the years, as their maneuverability on crowded streets offer advantages not provided by traditional police vehicles. The motorcycle's relatively small size allows it to get to accident scenes more quickly when incidents such as traffic collisions slow down access by four-wheel vehicles.

Motorcycles also tend to consume less fuel than police cars, which saves... (read more)]]> Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:05:06 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/police-motorcycles-8235.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/police-motorcycles-8235.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-new-automotive-world-order-8135.html
The reasons which led to this do not concern us here. What does concern us is how the future of the automotive industry is shaping up to be, as it will surely be...]]> 2009 has been so far, and chances are it will still be, a very troubled year in the automotive industry. Brought to its knees by an economic crisis which began in an entirely different sector of the economy, the industry is still engulfed in a major shake down, with new entities spawning to replace the former, under-performing ones.

The reasons which led to this do not concern us here. What does concern us is how the future of the automotive industry is shaping up to be, as it will surely be... (read more)]]> Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:38:45 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-new-automotive-world-order-8135.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-new-automotive-world-order-8135.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-nismo-8033.html
This is exactly the case with NISMO, the sport division belonging to Japanese manufacturer Nissan, a brand which can be traced back to 1984 when the parent company decided to m...]]> As we're sure you know from our previous stories, sport divisions are often based on motorsport activities that allowed manufacturers to focus more on high-performance parts and models. In most cases, the sport divisions started as racing teams in various championships, some of them even achieving notable performances.

This is exactly the case with NISMO, the sport division belonging to Japanese manufacturer Nissan, a brand which can be traced back to 1984 when the parent company decided to m... (read more)]]> Tue, 23 Jun 2009 13:35:25 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-nismo-8033.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-nismo-8033.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-3-extra-terrestrial-vehicles-7933.html
In fact, not only did we not establish a permanent human settlement off-world, as sci-fi authors like to call other planets, but we didn't even manage to build a truly ...]]> Back in the day when Neil Armstrong stepped onto the surface of the moon, for the first time in human history, people started believing that by the time you are reading this piece, millions of our kind will be living on the Moon and on Mars. The crude reality is that it didn't happen, for reasons which do not concern us here.

In fact, not only did we not establish a permanent human settlement off-world, as sci-fi authors like to call other planets, but we didn't even manage to build a truly ... (read more)]]> Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:33:17 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-3-extra-terrestrial-vehicles-7933.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/top-3-extra-terrestrial-vehicles-7933.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hummer-from-the-us-army-to-china-7794.html
In case you're interested in the history of the United States, you probably know that the US Army has always been supported by local a...]]> There's no secret HUMMER is one of the most appreciated brands around the world, especially in the United States where the company has sold most of its cars. But behind the HUMMER nameplate there is a long and impressive history, with many dead ends and lots of crucial moments when some people seeing the brand dead already. But let's take them chronologically.

In case you're interested in the history of the United States, you probably know that the US Army has always been supported by local a... (read more)]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:27:36 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hummer-from-the-us-army-to-china-7794.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hummer-from-the-us-army-to-china-7794.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/us-presidential-limo-from-steam-to-the-beast-7697.html
Of course, this was not the case in the early da...]]> One of the most sought after "shows" on American city streets is the passing of a Presidential motorcade. Today, the simple act of the President going from place to place in a car has become a spectacle in itself, a type of parade if you like (some call it the Power Parade). Since 2001, the motorcade consists of around 35 vehicles, all of them, except the limo, of course, being looked after by the White House Military Office (WHMO).

Of course, this was not the case in the early da... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:05:30 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/us-presidential-limo-from-steam-to-the-beast-7697.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/us-presidential-limo-from-steam-to-the-beast-7697.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-mazdaspeed-7601.html
The so-called "Mazda Sports Corner" team didn't wait too much, with the offi...]]> Similar to many other sport divisions out there, MAZDASPEED first made history in motorsports before becoming Mazda's popular sport unit we all heard about. It all started in 1967 when an independent racing team, pleasantly surprised by Mazda's two-door coupe Cosmo 110S, equipped with the first-ever production rotary engine, announced its ambitious plans to take part in motorsport events all over the world.

The so-called "Mazda Sports Corner" team didn't wait too much, with the offi... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2009 13:49:13 GMT Coverstory - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-mazdaspeed-7601.html Coverstory http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sport-divisions-in-the-spotlight-mazdaspeed-7601.html#comments autoevolution