It’s exclusive and expensive that cost €177,310 including VAT in Europe.  For now, Mercedes-Benz has begun hand producing the aluminium-bodied SLS AMG 'Gullwing' supercar in Germany, where only six or seven are expected to roll off the slow moving production line each day.

While computers and robots dominate 21st century vehicle production, Mercedes-Benz says hand building allows extra attention to detail and superior quality.

The revival of Mercedes-Benz’s most famous model – and one of the world’s most sought after collectibles – will be complete in March when European customers start taking deliveries.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has sleek styling with retro tinges and is topped off by the gullwing-style doors that fold up. This model is powered by a 6.2-litre AMG V8 engine developing 420kW of power, making it the fastest Mercedes-Benz ever produced for the road.

Photo Gallery:-

The latest in a series of recalls, which has now hit almost eight million Toyota cars worldwide, was again due to an accelerator problem and covered eight separate models and dates ranging back to February 2005.

Toyota said parts supplier CTS had begun making pedals based on a new design that resolved the problem and the two firms were testing a remedy.

Toyota's woes went into overdrive last week when it announced a recall of 2.3 million cars in the US due to safety fears related to accelerator pedals. It is also recalling almost 5.3 million US vehicles to replace floor mats that could trap accelerator pedals.

Toyota spokesman Etienne Plas said that ''at least 1.7 million'' of the cars already recalled outside Europe potentially suffered from both problems.

Taking that and the latest European recall into account, that left the total number of vehicles pulled worldwide at 7.7 million.

Toyota, which overtook General Motors in 2008 as the world's top-selling carmaker, has been bedevilled by safety issues that raised questions about whether it has sacrificed quality for quantity.

Honda announced a recall for 646,000 units of 2007 and 2008 Fit, City and Jazz models worldwide, after a fire hazard involving a power window switch resulted in a death in South Africa.

This recall confirmed for all Fit, Jazz and City cars made between 2002 and 2008 in Japan, China, Brazil, Thailand, Malaysia and India.

Honda said extreme amounts of liquid, such as rain or melted snow, can flood the master power window switch on the driver's side, causing the vehicle to overheat. As a result of that, it caused seven vehicles to overheat and two to catch fire.

Honda said it will notify customers by mail with instructions on how to have their vehicles inspected and updated at an authorized Honda dealer.

The automaker said that current 2009 and 2010 models are not affected by the recall.

German tuning specialist, B&B launch of a series of performance package that includes powertain and chassis upgrades for VW Golf R.

The engine mods come in three different stages, with the first bumping output from 270HP to 310HP, the second to 324HP and the third to 362HP.

The most powerful kit features a larger turbocharger, a sports exhaust system with a different downpipe and a racing catalyst, reflashed ECU, a revised air intake system and a new intercooler.

B&B claims that the 362HP Golf R sprints from standstill to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds and top speed of 280km/h.

The tuning firm also offers a special 8-caliper high-performance braking system, an adjustable coilover suspension with new springs that lower the vehicle's ride height and a set of black-colored alloy wheels in sizes 19'' or 20''.

Photo Gallery:-

While Toyota to be affected by the faulty accelerator pedals made by Indiana-based supplier CTS Corp., it isn't the only one that faces this problem. So, don't dispose your Toyota first...

USA Today reported that Ford has halted production of Transit Classic van in China because it has a similar type of pedal assembly made by CTS as the ones blamed for Toyota's recall in the USA.

"When anybody has an issue in the industry, we check everything about the Ford system and production process," said Ford CEO Alan Mulally. "It's our assessment right now that this is very isolated."

It is also reported that Toyota has issued a new recall of 75,000 vehicles in China for the same matter apart from Europe and USA.

Toyota's recall wave continues to expand and strongly hit its standing as reliable cars. Other Auto-makers like GM and other Japanese Automaker are trying to take up some of Toyota’s market shares at this moment. With the total number of Toyota vehicles affected by two recalls involving gas pedals growing to at least 5.3 million vehicles.

In this few days, there are few incentives programme and low financing scheme are introduced for worried Toyota’s owner to swap their car. Moreover, there are dealers that put out a slogan by saying that ‘our gas pedal doesn’t stuck’ to draw some attention and sales revenue.

The latest addition to the recalls was announced Wednesday, with 1.1 million vehicles added to the 4.2 million recalled in November to fix a problem in which the gas pedal can become caught on the edge of the removable floor mat. That problem can cause the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably.

A separate recall of 2.3 million vehicles announced last week involving accelerator pedals that can stick on their own. It was being expanded to include an undisclosed number of vehicles in Europe.

The vehicles being added to the floor mat-related recall are:-

• 2008-2010 Highlander
• 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Venza
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe (produced under a partnership between GM)

The vehicles originally included in the floor mat-related recall were:-

• 2007-2010 Toyota Camry
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• 2004-2009 Prius
• 2010 Tacoma
• 2007-2010 Tundra 
• 2007-2010 Lexus ES350
• 2006-2010 IS250 
• 2006-2010 IS350.

Most, but not all, of the vehicles involved in the stuck pedal recall are also involved in the other recall. They are:-

• 2009-2010 Toyota RAV4, Corolla, Matrix and Pontiac Vibe
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra 
• 2008-2010 Sequoia
• Some of the 2007-2010 Camry.

Toyota has been working with the pedal supplier and is close to having a new pedal design ready for approval by regulators, a Toyota spokesman said Thursday.

In the meantime, owners who experience sticking or slowness in the movement of their car's gas pedal should stop driving the car and call a Toyota dealer immediately.

The latest commercial for the new Mercedes SLS AMG, featuring MercedesGP Driver Michael Schumacher.

It was spied! So called 998 model of Porsche’s next generation 911 will be lighter, faster and sexier.

Due in 2011, the new Porsche 911 is expected to focus on lightweight materials in an effort to improve performance, reduce fuel use and improve agility and road holding.

In true 911 fashion the rear mounted six-cylinder engine – updated in 2009 to include more efficient direct injection fuel injection - will remain, and potentially with the usual tweaks to improve performance and efficiency.

Porsche’s engineers are believed to have been working hard on improving the performance of the 911, in particular focussing on weight reduction to boost efficiency.

Below are some of the exclusive new spy shots:-

Mazda has official release on its facelift on Mazda Atenza in Japanese Domestic Market. Atenza is known as JDM version of Mazda6. This round, 2011 Atenza refined with some styling changes, chassis tweaks and a new 2.0-liter DISI gasoline engine with direct injection.

Furthermore, Mazda also tweaked the Atenza's power steering and suspension settings improving the car's handling and straight-line stability at high speeds as well the ride quality.

Although there isn’t any official announcement regards on the facelift of Mazda6 for other market like Asia, US or Europe. But I am sure that we'll get a similar facelift on the Mazda6 pretty soon!

Check out the Photo Gallery on 2011 Mazda Atenza and its interior on the below.

Toyota has announced that it will halt sales of 8 models due to problem that could cause the vehicles' gas pedals to stick. Early this month, Toyota in USA is recalling 2.3 million vehicles to correct this problem.

This new recall is separate from an on-going recall of 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles to correct a problem in which the pedals could become stuck under a loose floormat that announced in late last year.
 
This new recall is to correct a situation in which the gas pedal could stick without the presence of a floor mat.

The following eight models are included:-

• 2009-2010 RAV4
• 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry models
• 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia

"Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position," Toyota USA group vice president Irv Miller said in a statement.

The situation is rare, according to Toyota, but can occur when accelerator pedal mechanisms become worn. The problem will usually develop gradually, Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons said. The pedal may become harder to press and may become slower to return when released. In the worst cases, it may become stuck in a partially depressed position.

No Lexus or Scion sales have been halted. Manufacturing plants that build the eight models will be shut down for at least the week of February 1st.

We first saw the Golf R during last year's Frankfurt Motor Show when the automaker unveiled her to the public.

Recently, Volkswagen released some new photos of the car shot during the international driving presentation in Ellmau, Austria. As recap, VW Golf R comes with a 270HP 2.0-liter turbo engine and all-wheel drive and is the most powerful and fastest series production Golf ever made.

The hottest Golf takes 5.7 seconds from 0-100km/h when equipped with a manual gearbox, and 5.5 seconds with VW's DSG dual clutch transmission. In both cases top speed is limited to 250km/h.

Quick Specification:

Photo Gallery:-

Volkswagen Passat CC is a stylish four-seater vehicle with a touch of coupe and sport saloon. But, the rear bench is separated by a cubby with a sliding plastic top which making the car unable to fit 5 passengers.

On now onwards, due to demand in European market that asked for another seat on the rear bench. VW decided to make the Passat CC to be five-seater vehicle by adding a headrest and a seatbelt and remove the cubby. The 3-seat rear bench system is available as an option for 100 euros.

It is not yet clear whether Volkswagen AG will offer such optional item for Passat CC customers in other part of the world. Anyway, we will look into it and keep you posted.

Photo of Original Passat CC rear bench:-

Lexus LFA is a two-seat Japanese exotic sports coupe with a price tag of USD375,000. Yes, I got to post this article as it really blows my mind, particularly - the price tag and the demand.

As refresh, Lexus LFA is more expensive than a Ferrari F430 and a little expensive than a Lamborghini Murciélago LP640. Lexus which is a luxury brand of Toyota claimed that they isn't making profit on LFA as the cost of the car is pretty high on the materials as well as 9 Years R&D.

Surprisingly, the demand of Lexus LFA exceeds its production target of 500 vehicles. For now, Lexus said it will have to hand pick who it sells each individual model to. After the registration process is completed, Lexus will decide on how to allocate the 500 units to the 56 countries where the LFA will be sold. 150 have been allocated to the United States.

Lexus LFA comes from a 4.8L V10 engine that makes 552-hp with a maximum torque of 354 lb-ft. Mated to a 6-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox, the LFA goes from 0-100 km/h time of just 3.7 sec with a top speed of 326 km/h. This super car is feature with a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) body.

As well as adopting the company's trademark of 'cars' smiley face grille up front on the new Mazda5. Like its predecessor, the new Mazda5 comes with sliding rear-doors and 7 seaters with third row seats

Among the engine options will be Mazda's newly-developed 2.0-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine with direct-injection and i-stop, linked to a six-speed manual transmission with gear ratios specific to this version. The gasoline line-up will also features a 1.8-liter engine with a six-speed manual transmission.

But I am sure, Bermaz (Mazda Distributor in Malaysia) will offer limited to automatic transmission for Malaysia market which make more sense for a MPV.

The all-new Mazda5 is scheduled to go on sale across Europe later this year with more details to be released at the upcoming Geneva motor show.

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Subaru withdrew last year from the WRC due to World Economic Climate. But this doesn't stop Prodrive from tweaking out another rally-prepped Impreza. Homologated to production-based Group N specifications, the Impreza N2010 packs a twin-scroll-turbocharged two-liter boxer four with competition-spec fuel injectors, catalyst and ECU for an extra 20 horsepower over stock and a wider torque band.

This car is fitted with an adjustable Ohlins suspension, with differentials front, center and rear, AP Racing brakes and reinforced with FIA-certified roll cage.

The result is what Prodrive claims is a more competitive package compared to a Super 2000-spec rally machine at about half the price. Potential buyer can pick one up from £120,000, or lease one for two years.

Photo Gallery:

Toyota FT-86 G Sports Concept is displayed at 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon. This G Sports version of the production FT-86 which this sports coupe will goes on sale in late 2011.

This G Sports model including a turbocharged version of the 2.0-liter boxer-four and a wide body aero kit which set apart from the standard FT-86.

WTS: NEW Honda Civic FD 'Mugen Style' Door Visor
[High Quality Local Replica]

• More glossy & smooth finishing
• UV coating Smoke black colour
• Block Rain & Sunshine
• Good fitting & flexible
• Original Strong 3M tape
• Round edge design with no sharp edges

NETT PRICE RM160 per set of 4 pieces, COD at Klang Valley Area

• Email: shop [@] edvinteo.com to order now!
• Note: For overseas order, kindly contact us on logistics arrangement. Thank you

Honda officially introduced its all-new HSV-010 GT racing car. This car will compete in the GT500 class of 2010 Japanese Super GT series. The HSV-010 GT, which will replace of the racing variant of the NSX, is all that has been left from Honda's V10 powered supercar project that got canned at the end of 2008 due to the recession.

Instead of trashing the entire project development of the NSX replacement model, Honda decided to use the supercar as a base for its Super GT contender. Honda's engineers replaced the V10 powerplant with a naturally-aspirated 3.4-liter V8 engine that output more than 500-horsepower and over 392Nm of torque.

The entire HSV-010 GT racing car approximately 1,100 kg and features a double wishbone suspension all around, steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters for the transmission and a rack and pinion system with electric power steering.

Specification:

Honda HSV-010 GT Spec Sheet

Note: The letters "HSV" stand for Honda Sports Velocity.

Photo Gallery:

Relevant Posts:-
HONDA HSV-010 (Honda Sports Velocity 10) GT to be the successor of Honda NSX GT are on track test at Suzuka Circuit, Japan

Remember back into my previous post on Tommy Kaira Nissan GT-R R35 Sport Package? Tommy Kaira's awaited Ebbrezza-R sports package with styling and performance upgrades is now ready.

On the outside, now you can see there's a new aero kit trimmed in carbon fiber that includes a redesigned front bumper with a lip spoiler, side skirts, rear wheel arch add-ons, a rear wing and a rear diffuser along with an underspoiler.

Relevant Links:-
Tommy Kaira Nissan GT-R R35 Sport Package for 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon

To all car lovers at every beginning moments of owning a new car, they always wanted to maintain their car looking new and sparkling shines. In order to achieve that, he needs to keep your car paint coated with wax regularly. This requires a lot of time and 'Patience'. Yes, it needs 'Patience' which I have just loose it all recently.

For the past 1 year, I have been spending time on waxing my ride every 3 months to keep it gloss with Meguiars Gold Class Wax.

From my experience on car detailing, I had concluded that regardless what type of wax that you applied to your car, it will only last you for months but not years. This includes all products from high-end Meguiars, Turtle Wax, 3M, to affordable Soft99. Basically, you just need to maintain it regularly as part of routine. It is just the matter how many more weeks it last.

In recent times, I have got a several positive feedbacks from my surrounding about Polarized Paint Protection System (PPS). First though, it is just a regular paint sealant. But after, I found it is a type of paint sealant that only required one time application and it will last at least for 3 years. Most attractive part - No more Polishing, No More Waxing and Just Regular Washings! It sounds quite dramatic to me at first stage.

Using the source of internet, I found the Polarized Paint Protection System (PPS) is the only patented polarized paint protection system with US patent (No. 5,081,171). The coating will fuse and bond to the paint which create a dazzling, wet and deep shine and will stay and remain there to protect the paint against the damaging UV sunray and all other harmful elements for years.

This technology guaranteed protection against Fading, Oxidation, Weather Deterioration, Acid Rain, UV Rays, Tree Saps, Bird Droppings, Bugs and Salt UP TO 5 Years! Interestingly, it is widely use not only on cars but on boats and airplanes.

It just required 2-step process. (First-step, applies to charged surface with + Ion. Second-step, applies PTFE coating and fuses into painted surface!) Of course, you need to prepare the paint surface before doing all that.

After reading those, I had further losing my 'Patience'. I went to Shine N Shield at Sunway and make an appointment for my car with Raymond Tan – 03 5635 9933. Considering myself as a detailing freak, I think he is very well experienced.

The entire process of applying the PPS coating took approximately 5 hours. They need to wash your car, prepare the paint surface with compound polishing, applying first-step, wash the car again and applying the second-step before finishing. They do provide interior leather, vinyl and fabric protection as well as optional.

There are several packages range from Small, Medium to Large Vehicle with the price starting from RM680 with warranty up to 5 years against defect for new vehicle.

Even though there are many facts and feedback as supporting, making things more worthwhile. I will remain monitoring on the applied paint surface of my car and keep you posted on any updates about PPS technology.

To kick off this brand new year with my first project in 2010 for edvinteo.com. I have logged down this valued experiment process and the details of PPS application to our car.

Photo Gallery:-

(1) Before getting started...

(2) Car Washing

(3) Paint Surface Preparation & Step-1 Application

(4) Waiting the Step-1 to sit on the Paint Surface, Solar Energy is use :)

(5) Car Washing again... What a spa...

(6) Prepare to Apply Step-2

(7) Yes, is all done... Check out the finishing!

(8) Due to the wheels of Civic Type R is paint finished, PPS is applied too.

(9) You will find the PPS Decal attach to the windshield. Like a certification...

(10) While you waiting for your car to complete, you can actually sit down and enjoy all customer facilities that Shine N Shield provide.. e.g. TV with Astro, Massage Chair, Musics, Pantry Corner and etc...

For those who are interested, you can contact:-

Shine N Shield Auto Paint Protection which is an exclusive distributor for PPS Products in Malaysia and located at:-

No. 47, Jalan PJS 11/22, Bandar Sunway,
46150 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
Tel: (03) 5635 9933

Recently, Janet has visited The Cerebral Palsy Association of R.O.C. and helping them to raise donation for the kids with Nescafe.

You could be one of them to dream and wish to date Janet Hsieh for just a meal or just for a drink. For now, you will no longer need to wait further.

You can make a donation by bidding this 'date'. For the winner, you will entitle for a high tea session with Janet Hsieh on 18 January 2010, 2.30pm to 4.30pm @ Marco Polo Restaurant in Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei.

You'll be enjoying the modern, elegant ambiance at Taipei's most stylish Italian restaurant. Indulge in the essence of Italian cuisine and impeccable service while taking in the breathtaking views of Tun Hwa South Road and Taipei City with the lovely Fun Taiwan Host - Janet Hsieh.

The auction is now open and remaining 6 days to close. Last bidded price for now is: NT$ 16,300.

Wait no further, you can click the link on the below to bid for your golden opportunity! 

【公益拍賣】獨賣! 和Janet在遠企獨處120分鐘! 還可做公益送溫暖! 

It is a known fact that the German VW Golf GTI Mk-6 slick looks and sleek lines make it a true head-turner. In the heart of the Golf GTI, it comes with an impressive 2.0 TSI engine mated with a 6-speed DSG Auto gearbox and output with 210PS. From the paper, the car takes you easily from 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.

VW’s TSI motor is the latest revision over the previous FSI version and differs slightly in that it is timing chain driven as opposed to having a timing belt. The previous TFSI requires checking and replacing the timing belt at 60,000km.

As usual for Golf GTI, it will come with its 17" alloy wheels in "Denver" design fitted with Bridgestone Potenza RE050 - 225/45 R17 tyres. The front grille of Golf GTI feature its black-painted honeycomb structure with two red strips and GTI emblem attached.

The braking system is honestly superb with the 16" disc brakes which you can feel the brake assist and servo whenever you step on the brake pedals.

The rear of the car comes with an unpainted black-coloured diffuser and two exhaust tailpipes fitted on the left and right. The roof spoiler and exclusive body-coloured bumpers also help to give the exterior a more GTI flair!

Some of you may wonder how fast this GTI can go. Be frank but fair to be surprise, this hot-hatch able to reaches a top speed of 240 km/h while the meter top speed having 280 km/h.

Interior wise, you will find its premium Vienna leather upholstery from this continental hot-hatch. For such a hot hatch, the car has a total of 4 reading lights. For the centre armrest, it is height adjustable to your comfort and 2 air-vents with 2 cup holders for the rear passengers. The leather-trimmed steering wheels now come with pedal shifters.

“Climatronic” is the term used by VW, basically it is an auto-climate air conditioning with 2-zone temperature controls, a single CD system and ParkPilot with audible warnings from sensors at the front and rear. Besides, the Golf GTI also includes Bi-Xenon full adaptive headlamp, front fog lights, rain sensor, auto-headlamp turning on/off, and headlamp washer system.

Safety wise, the Golf GTI come with 7 air bags. You may wonder where another odd one from is. It is actually a knee airbag for the driver. This VW Golf GTI Mk-6 achieved a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating.

What make the Mk-6 different apart from Mk-5 are mainly the TSI engine and the Extended Electronic Differential Lock XDL. The rest, pretty much there like the ABS, ESP.

From my experience on reviewing both Mk-5 and Mk-6, both cars are pretty similar apart from 10PS extra for the MK-6 which you won't feel it much. However, Mk-6 having driver side electronic seat, Comfort/Sport Mode switch to adjust to suit your driving style, paddle shifter on the steering wheel and little different on the dashboard. Personally, I preferred the Golf GTI Mk-5 as its more rounded in shape but feature-wise Mk-6 is better. So, you prefer Specification or Appearance?

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is official distributed by Volkswagen Group Malaysia and you will be fully backed by the principal with Unlimited Mileage 2-years + 3-years Extended Warranty. The car goes on-the-road at the price tag of RM211,060.00 (excluding insurance).

Photo Gallery:

Download for VW Golf GTI

• Price List for Peninsular Malaysia
• Product Brochure

Subaru has revealed a successor to its Impreza S203 and S204 special performance models with the new S205 that benefits from chassis, engine and styling upgrades in the Japan Domestic Market. Those special cars normally export to countries has the demand of it after several years in Japan as Reconditioned Cars.

For now on the top performance model of the WRX STI lineup, Subaru introduce the R205 [where "R" stands for "Road Sport"]. This model makes full use of specially designed features and performance parts of the "WRX STI spec C" model.

Subaru tweaked the Impreza WRX STI's engine by adopting an exclusively designed turbocharger with ball bearings for the turbine axle bearing, specially tuned ECU, and a new sport muffler with lowered back pressure exhaust. The result is an increased output of 325-horsepower and 431Nm or 317.9 lb-ft of peak torque.

The handling is handled by STI tuned suspension and fitted with 18" Alloys in Bridgestone RE-070 tires with the size of 245/40 R18. Braking system powered by Brembo with 6-pot calipers for the front and 4-pot calipers for the rear.

Major equipment for Subaru Impreza R205:-

Mechanism:

• STI tuned inverted strut and coil springs for front suspension
• STI tuned damper and coil springs for rear suspension
• "Brembo" 6-pot brake caliper with STI silver logo and 18-inch grooved rotors for front brake
• "Brembo" 4-pot brake caliper with STI silver logo and 18-inch grooved rotors for rear brake
• STI designed 18-inch cast aluminum wheels
• Bridgestone specially designed "POTENZA RE070" (245/40R18) tyres
• STI designed flexible type front strut tower bar
• STI designed flexible type lower arm stiffener of front suspension
• R205 ECU (Engine Control Unit)
• R205 exhaust pipe
• R205 twin scroll turbocharger with flexible type ball bearings for the turbine axle bearing
• R205 sport muffler with lowered back pressure exhaust
• R205 front stabilizer

Interior:

• R205 side sill plate
• R205 serial number plate

Exterior:

• R205 front grille (black)
• STI designed front under spoiler
• STI designed side STI garnish (black metallic)
• STI designed rear under spoiler
• STI designed rear spoiler (black)
• R205 badges on front grille and rear gate

Production Limitation and Price:

• Production is limited to 400 units
• Selling Price? It will be 4,510,000 JP Yen (without tax)

Major specifications:

• Engine type; Horizontally-Opposed 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbocharged engine
• Displacement; 1,994 cc
• Transmission; 6 speed manual transmission
• Maximum output; 235kW (320PS)/6,400 rpm
• Maximum torque; 431Nm (44.0kg.m)/4,000 rpm -Overall length X width X height; 4,415 X 1,795 X 1,465 mm

Photo Gallery:

Not long ago, I have posted the new VW Amarok to be launch in Q2 2010 to Australia market [Refer to: 2010 Volkswagen Amarok coming to Australia in Q2 2010].

Just a few months before it goes on sale first in South America and then in Europe, followed by Australia and South Africa. The new Pickup Truck are being used as support vehicles in Dakar Rally across South America.

A total of 35 Amaroks are being used as support vehicles by the Volkswagen team and the official organisers, ASO, throughout this year's 5,600 mile event which started from Buenos Aires in Argentina on 1 January and will cross the Andes to Antofagasta on the Pacific coast in Chile, before taking a southern route to the finish back in Buenos Aires on 17 January.

"We are thrilled to put the new Amarok through its paces as part of this long-distance challenge, the world's toughest, before officially launching it on the market." said Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Naza Group joint group executive chairman SM Faisal SM Nasimuddin who was at the launch of Brabus E-Class W212 in Kuala Lumpur, said the group will finalise its deal with General Motors this year.

The group recently signed a MoU with General Motors Thailand to distribute Chevrolet cars and parts in Malaysia. The MoU was signed betwee SM Faisal and General Motors Southeast Asia Operations and Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Ltd - President Steve Carlisle.

Naza-Brabus Motor Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor for BRABUS in Malaysia and Singapore unveiled the latest BRABUS E-Class W212 in Kuala Lumpur.

Three variants are offered which namely E-Klasse S, E-Klasse R and E-Klasse V6 with the price starting from RM 448,400. Naza-Brabus target to sell 200 units for this year.

The BRABUS E-Class feature sporty and aerodynamic enhancements. All variants come with 18-inch mono-block Q 8.5 x 18H2 wheels and a Brabus sports exhaust system.

The interior package for the E-Klasse S consists of matt-finish aluminium pedals, aluminium door lock pins, lighted entrance door panels, a media interface, rear electric roller blinds, door blinds, an intelligent light system with adaptive main beam assist, parking guidance, through loading facility and a Command APS system with DVD changer.

The E-Klasse R adds on the above with additional appointments such as Keyless-Go entry system, remote enabled locking boot-lid, gearshift pedals and a panoramic sliding sunroof.

Meanwhile, for the top of the range E-Klasse V6, you get a Direct Select function, 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission and a wood/leather-bound steering wheel. The car also gets integrated 7-inch LCD displays for the rear passengers.

All three models are available for booking and the E-Klasse V6 is display at all BRABUS centres.

Jennifer Hawkins, the crowned Miss Universe in 2004 and has since hosted popular television programmes such The Great Outdoors and Make Me A Supermodel.

Recently, she posed for the untouched nude photos to promote positive female body image in Australia Marie Claire magazine, but her decision resulted in an avalanche of criticism from people who pointed out the former Miss Universe was far from an average woman with body image concerns.

Furthermore, MYER chief executive Bernie Brookes mentioned MYER chiefs are disappointed that the store's multi-million-dollar ambassador, Jennifer Hawkins, failed to inform them of her controversial nude photo shoot.

The new Honda Insight hybrid is one of those vehicles that makes us wonder if the team are seriously doing their job during the designing stage. If you realise, the car does look a bit like Toyota Prius at certain angle.

The Japanese tuner, Tommy Kaira has tried to make this car looks abit more pretty. Hence, they develope a new sport package for Honda Insight.

Tommy Kaira come out with a body kit in carbon-fiber trim and comprises of a front spoiler, a new grille, side skirts and a rear apron with an integrated diffuser that can optionally house four tail-pipes for display purposes.

The package can be rounded off with new 15- or 16-inch alloy wheels, a sport suspension that lowers the car by 30 to 35mm and various other accessories and parts such as sport seats.

Photo Gallery:

German new car sales jumped 23 percent in 2009 but began to slow in December after a car scrapping scheme expired, figures released on Tuesday by the VDA auto federation showed.

Through the year, 3.8 million vehicles were registered in Germany, the biggest European car market, which the VDIK association of foreign auto manufacturers said was the highest level since 1992.

In the other hand, car registrations fell five percent in December 2009 from the same month a year earlier to 215,400 vehicles.

Sales of small cars in particular were boosted last year by a car scrapping premium worth a total of five billion euros (7.2 billion dollars), part of a broad government stimulus programme aimed at pulling Germany out of recession which the scheme ended in September 2009.

This year, VDA forecast sales would fall to between 2.75-3.0 million.

German auto production fell 10 percent last year to 3.41 million vehicles, while exports were down by 17 percent, the VDA figures showed.

Exports have nonetheless begun to pick up and continued to progress in December, the association said, gaining 23 percent from December 2008 to 276,900 units.

A total of 68 percent of all cars produced in Germany last year were sold abroad and "we expect this trend to continue in the coming months," VDA president Matthias Wissmann was quoted as saying.

Source: AFP

India is one of the fastest growing auto markets in the world while all car makers are eager to tap into this emerging market. Sales of passenger vehicles have been growing at double-digits, since the middle of last year. 120,000 units were snapped up in December 2009 alone.

The Indian automotive industry has a turnover of more than US$18 billion and it expects to gain significantly from new tie-ups, partnerships and marketing initiatives.

As a testament, this year's India Auto Expo in the capital attracted participants from at least 30 countries. Ford, Hyundai, Renault and Suzuki are represented along with luxury brands BMW and Mercedes.

Close to two million visitors are expected to visit 10th Auto Expo 2010 at New Delhi, India. Which is a number that surpass popular motor shows in New York and Shanghai.

Pawan Goenka, president, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers said: "Global manufacturers are bringing in latest products and launching their products out of Delhi Auto Expo, which has not happened in too many instances.

Ten new models will have their global launches at the week-long event.

Toyota unveiled its Etios compact car. The Japanese car maker hopes to sell 70,000 units a year, once it reaches the Indian market in the coming months.

General Motors brought out its small car - the Chevrolet Beat. Its aggressive pricing could set a new standard in the intensely competitive small car market.

Other companies, including Ford and Volkswagen, are also launching new models, lending weight to India's growing status as a hub for the global auto industry.

The auto expo has acted as a platform for both Indian and foreign businessmen to tap into the country's growing auto market.

Janet Hsieh newest Rubitussin TV commercial on air now! I have the TV commercial as well as the video from the behind scene to shared it.

Therefore, is a MUST for you to check it out! Janet, 加油!

Rubitussin TV Commercial

Behind the Scene with Janet

He did it! Travis Pastrana, legend of both freestyle motocross and rally racing, jumps 269 feet in his rally car live on ESPN in Long Beach while celebrate the New Year 2010 on last Thursday.

The daredevil shattered the world record for the longest jump in a rally car on Thursday night, making a nearly perfect flight of 269 feet from the Pine Street Pier onto a barge anchored in the harbor.

Travis Pastrana broke the world record for the longest jump in a rally car, which was set by Ken Block in 2006. Block jumped 171 feet. "It was a wild ride," said the wild man of action sports.

His Subaru skidded sideways after landing and slammed into a safety wall at the end of the barge, but Pastrana emerged unscathed. He ran up the landing ramp and did a backflip into the water in front of a crowd estimated at 20,000.

Check out the video clip on the below...

Google has begun selling mobile phones directly to consumers, taking on hardware makers like Apple in an effort to dominate the burgeoning mobile internet space.

The Nexus One, based on Google's Android platform, will initially only be available to those in the US, Britain, Singapore and Hong Kong.

It will sell for $US529 outright and $US179 on a two-year contract from T-Mobile in USA.

A Google spokeswoman said the company wanted to roll out the device "gradually" in order to receive feedback and ensure the ordering process was smooth.

"The Nexus One also had to undergo certification in all countries we sell the phone in, and we wanted to ensure that the import regulations didn't make the phone prohibitively expensive," she said.

Specifications

• Display: 3.7" AMOLED 480x800 WVGA display

• Thickness: 11.5mm; Weight: 130g

• Processor/Speed: Qualcomm Snapdragon(TM) 8250 processor, with speeds up to 1GHz

• Camera: 5 megapixel auto focus with flash and geo tagging

• Onboard memory: 512MB Flash, 512MB RAM

• Expandable memory: 4GB removable SD Card (expandable to 32GB)

• Noise Suppression: Dynamic noise suppression from Audience, Inc.

• Ports: 3.5mm stereo headphone jack with four contacts for inline voice and remote control

• Battery: Removable 1400 mAh

• Personalized laser engraving: Up to 50 characters on the back of the phone

• Trackball: Tri-color notification LED, alerts when new emails, chats, text messages arrive

Photo Gallery

Auto sales by Toyota Motor Corp in Asia other than Japan will outnumber those in the domestic market in 2009 for the first time due mainly to a steep sales increase and booming in China, industry sources say. Toyota sold some 1,354,000 units in Asia in the first 11 months of this year, up 4.5% over a year earlier, in comparison with 1,256,000 vehicles in Japan.
   
The sales growth in Asia was led by a 20.7% increase to 622,000 units in China. Sales in China are likely to reach around 700,000 units for the entire year, they said.
   
The Asian market therefore is expected to become the second-largest market for Toyota in 2009 after North America where the automaker sold 1,770,000 vehicles in the January-November period, the sources said.

Furthermore in November itself, the car sales showed a recovery also in India, Thailand and Vietnam.

Source: JapanToday

A short interview with Michael Schumacher, the living legend of F1 motorsports talk about his return to Formula 1 GP and his views on the team Mercedes and Petronas.