DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes-Benz luxury car brand has finally come up with a decision that involves their entry into the hybrid powertrain class. The Stuttgart-based automaker will develop a hybrid model for their several vehicle classes ranging from the subcompact A-Class models up to the S-Class luxury sedans.

Last week, Thomas Weber, the head of development for Mercedes Car Group has told the automotive press at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show about the Mercedes-Benz hybrid. He said: "In 2009, we will have the first Mercedes-branded hybrid on the market."

Meanwhile, here is what Dieter Zetsche, Chief Executive Officer of DaimlerChrysler AG said in a recent interview with Auto Motor und Sport, one of Germany's premiere automotive publications: "We will not develop new vehicles without including a hybrid model option. We will offer out customers the right product."...


Zetsche also said that the environment is very important for the company, and developing a Mercedes-Benz hybrid model will allow them to significantly contribute to the environment.

DaimlerChrysler's plan to focus on cars with diesel engines instead of focusing in hybrid powertrain technology was earlier dismissed due to some customer demands, according to the German automaker.

Zetsche also commented on the announcement made by Mercedes-Benz and BMW last week regarding the collaboration on the development of hybrid system. He said: "We will combine our knowledge and skills with BMW Group in order to accelerate the development of the hybrid project. With the mild hybrid, we can obtain 70 percent of the effect of a full hybrid with only 30 percent of the effort."

Zetsche further explains that the new models that will be offered some time in 2009 are equipped with mild hybrid powertrain systems, which include a diesel of petrol engine combined with an electric motor, unlike full hybrid models developed by other automakers that can run solely on electric power in a limited range. A mild hybrid powertrain system provides an increased acceleration and performance along with low fuel consumption and lower exhaust emissions.

Unfortunately, Mr. Zetsche said he will not give more details about the Mercedes-Benz's hybrid plans in the future. In fact, he did not include the exact schedule for the launch of their first ever mild hybrid model.

Along with the mild hybrid power train system, Zetsch also said that they will introduce other innovative car technologies in the future including the start/stop system and new alternator that can be disconnected from the engine during acceleration. These new technologies are being developed at the company’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.

After reading this article, car enthusiasts will watch out for the Mercedes-Benz model equipped with Mercedes hybrid powertrain parts, probably Mercedes C230 parts to roll out in dealer showrooms around the world.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Author: For more about your Mercedes parts needs like Mercedes C230 parts, visit your trusted online source. Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Mercedes-Benz Confirms a Hybrid Model in 2009

Related Post for "Mercedes-Benz Confirms a Hybrid Model in 2009":

• 2008 Brabus C-class
• BMW versus Mercedes
  

A trike is a motorized three wheeled vehicle, often with an appearance closer to a motorcycle than to a car. These machines have increased in popularity in recent years, being seen as an excellent alternative to motorbikes. There are strict definitions of what most owners think of a trike as being. A motorcycle with a sidecar is not, for instance, seen as being one, despite the fact that it has three wheels.

Real trikes are usually custom made, often involving using a car engine as the power source. A popular engine that is used is one taken from a Volkswagen Beetle. Such an engine will give a three wheeled vehicle just the right amount of acceleration and speed.

So why have they become so popular in recent years?

One reason has been that they are seen as a more stable alternative to a motorcycle. This makes them perfect for those with stability problems - this form of vehicle provides the thrill of riding a two wheeled machine, with the increased feeling of safety provided by that extra wheel...




Another important development has been in the way that the machines look. Specialist firms have been keen to spruce up their trike designs, producing machines that look great, as well as offering the expected performance levels.

There's a whole culture that goes with riding these machines too. That culture places trike owners in the same bracket as motorcycle owners, distinct from those of us who drive cars and other four wheeled vehicles.

Indeed, there are regular get togethers in the UK where bikers and trike owners meet. As with other forms of transport, there are environmental concerns surrounding the three wheelers. Some manufacturers are looking to ease such worries by attempting to produce more environmentally friendly models.

Whether such models gain popularity will be interesting. One thing is for certain - trike owners will continue to enjoy the experience of riding these unique vehicles.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Author: Find out about trike helmets online as part of Keith Barrett's other transport articles. This article may be used by any website publisher, though this resource box must always be included in full.

An Introduction to Trikes

Related Post for "An Introduction to Trikes":

• What kind of motorcycle is best for touring?
• Customized Harley Davidson
• Understand motorcycle racing
• Yamaha dirt bikes
  

When I first purchased my Sirius radio, I was able to use it with a simple FM transmitter with no problems. This worked fine but I had problems getting a decent reception no matter how hard I tried. I was especially frustrated that the FM transmitter would pick up on other channels and sporadically deliver static taking away from the clarity of the music. I was certain that I was going to have to pay for professional installation. After all, my area of expertise has never been with audio/visual equipment, or with automobiles.

After looking into the various options available for professional installation, and talking to a neighbor who had wired an antenna for his own satellite radio, I thought that I would give it a go. After all, if it didn't work out, I could always take it to a professional to have them do the installation the right way....

I'm glad I decided to try it myself. Installation of the antenna for my Sirius radio was easier than I could possible have imagined. There were just a couple of steps involved and only a few parts of the interior of my car to dive into. First, I had to mount the antenna. The resources at the Sirius web site helped me figure out exactly where on my pickup I should mount it, and how to install it properly. From there, I needed to route the cable for the antenna to where I would be housing the Sirius radio. Here again, I was able to get a lot of information from the Sirius site on the Internet. Even though they do not show you the exact model of your car, it is easy to see the best practice for routing the wires. I was amazed in how easy it was just to feed a simple wire through my car.

While the installation process was relatively straight forward and simple, there was one problem that I ran into at first. When I first plugged my Sirius radio into the antenna, all I would get was the message, "Acquiring Signal." I spent an hour or more messing with my antenna, trying to get it into a better position. Just about that time, my wife came out and asked me how it was going. I told her the problem. She said to me, "should you pull the truck out of the garage?" You see, our garage has an upstairs, and there is quite a bit of building in between my antenna and the sky. Sure enough, I opened the garage door and backed out, and my Sirius radio popped right up. The satellite radio installation took me all of an hour and I started with no clue as to what I was doing. It would have taken me over an hour to drive to Best Buy and wait on the guys there to do this for me. It also would have cost me quite a bit more.

Photo: http://bachelorpartymovie.com

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Author: Bob Maines is a satellite radio specialist with several years of experience selling and installing SIRIUS Radio

Installing Satellite Radio in My Car

Related Post for "Installing Satellite Radio in My Car":

• Navigation devices and GPS systems
• Megaloud - Car audio on steroids
• Car alarm with GPS tracking for vehicle recovery
  

How many times have you been walking the streets, maybe in a parking lot or maybe inside your home, and you heard a car alarm. What did you do about it? Most likely all you did was say, “Man I wish someone would turn that off.” So what if that car was being broken in to? Now what would you do if it's your car being broken into? You see, so many people have car alarms nowadays that no one even cares about hearing them anymore. If one goes off people do not even bat an eye at it. This means that if someone breaks into your car no one is going to try and stop them. This is why it's great to have a GPS tracking unit in your car. With one of these if your car ever does get stolen you will be able to track it down. This helps the cops be able to get to your car faster. So in a world were car alarms just are not enough anymore, you have to have something more. That something more is the great GPS tracking units.

Trying to out think the bad guys gets harder by the day. However, one thing that it is hard for them to plan for is if you have a GPS tracking unit in your car. This is a small chip that can be placed anywhere in the car that can pin point your cars location. Now you may want to know why that is helpful. Well it's not really that helpful until someone takes your car. Then you will thing that its the greatest thing in the world. Cops can use the GPS tracking unit in your car to see where the car is going. This way they can get it back to you faster than ever before. So not only is this a help to you now it's a help to your local cops....

The only people it does not help is the bad guys. Car alarms just are not enough anymore. If you are in the store you are not even going to hear it go off. Which means that there is nothing you can do. That is why we have to take a stand against the bad guys.

Buying one of these GPS tracking units for the cars that do not have them already in them are easy to get. In fact, you should be able to buy them in almost any store. If you are having a hard time finding one, the good news is that you can get them online. By getting them online you are not going to be saving time, but you are going to be saving a lot of money. This is because most things cost a lot less when they are online. Do not spend anymore time thinking about if your car is safe or not. Go out and get one of the GPS tracking units, and keep your car safe today.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Author: Mike Stone

Car Alarms With GPS Tracking For Vehicle Recovery, The Way Of The Future

Related Post for "Car Alarms With GPS Tracking For Vehicle Recovery":

• Navigation devices and GPS systems
• Megaloud - Car audio on steroids
  

The 2008 Chevrolet Corvette is often referred to as America's only true sports car with its all- out performance, eye- catching style, latest features, and better economy. The current Corvette promises a more thrilling and involving ride without sacrificing safety and comfort

The standard '08 Corvette offers exceptional performance with the 0-60- mph sprint with top speed of 180 mph or more. It also comes with a 6.0- liter, 400 horsepowerV8 coupled to either a six- speed manual or optional six- speed automatic. Meanwhile, an improved build and increased driver usability also make the Corvette an outstanding choice. Its features promise a smooth and comfortable ride. It comes with friendly ergonomics, razor- sharp handling, supportive seats, and excellent fit and finish proven by its stylish interiors. On the other hand, the car's hatchback body provides 22 cubic feet of cargo capacity making it relatively convenient. A Bose audio system is also provided.

Corvette's safety features are highlighted by latest technologies and innovations. An Antilock Brake System, StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System, and Traction Control System guarantees safety while driving. On the other hand, its Daytime Running Lamps help give the Corvette's attractive appearance. Moreover, it also has a Driver Information Center that provides early warning to the driver. Safety Cage Construction and Crush Zones, safety belts, two airbags, and LATCH for child safety seats are also available.....




Other features include a convertible windscreen of black aluminum with see- through black mesh and Cat- Back Exhaust made of twin transverse muffler system. It also features Advanced Automatic Crash Notification which enables sensors to immediately notify an OnStar advisor in case of crash accidents.

Today's 2008 Chevy Corvette has regained refinement making it more competitive compared to other sports car. It is still considered as one of the world's best known and longest- running nameplates, combining speed, elegance, and affordability in one package.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://www.motortrend.com

Author: Be sure to visit the Automotive Forums at http://www.TheAutomobileForum.com today! We hope that you enjoyed this 2008 Chevrolet Corvette review!

2008 Chevrolet Corvette Review - A Review of the 2008 Chevy Corvette Sports Car

Related Post For 2008 Chevrolet Corvette Review - A Review of the 2008 Chevy Corvette Sports Car

• 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS
• The Renaissance Of Classic Muscle Car
• History Of The Ford Mustang
• 2010 Dodge Challenger
• 2006 Dodge Charger: Michigan Police State Muscle Car
  

2008 Brabus C-Class - Autos Review

The new C-class was only recently been introduced in Germany and already the tuning giant Brabus is set to give the new C-Class some engine upgrades and a modified body kit with some accessories.

If Mercedes-Benz would like to keep its latest AMG-fettled creation under wraps until the New York Show then it’s entirely a different story for the people in Brabus since they simply just can’t wait to showoff what they did with the new W204 C-Class.

Brabus installs a special crankshaft together with some large pistons which increase the displacement to 4.0 liters. The four-valve cylinder heads were optimized for gas flow and were fitted with special camshafts. The other modification done includes a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts together with some newly programmed engine electronics. This conversion has resulted in a maximum power output of 244 kW and a peak torque of 420 Nm at 4200 r/min making the petrol-powered Brabus model capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in a matter of 5.6 seconds while reaching a top speed of 275 km/h....




Every detail and component of the C-class was not exempted from the attention of the Brabus from the Mercedes ignition coil to the oil burners; etc.---all received the company’s PowerXtra performance kit for the C200 CDI. The first stage of modification D2 (III) includes increasing the power of the 2.0 liter common-rail diesel by 29 kW while the torque soars to 450 Nm.

The Barbus D3 (III) kit increased the power stakes for the C200 CDI by delivering 143 kW while the torque remains the same as the D2 (III). The top of the range C320 CDI gets the D6 (III) kit which revs out an additional 36 kW and boosts the torque to a seismometer-tripping 590 Nm which according to Brabus will allow the C320 CDI to reach 0 to 100 km/h in as short as 6.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

The Brabus stainless-steel quad sport exhaust system is offered for all engine variants together with a pair of performance braking systems, custom-made alloys of up to 20 inches in diameter, lowering kits and sway bars.

The Brabus will also offer a striking body kit with time in the wind tunnel that has resulted in a mean looking vent front spoiler, three-piece rear spoiler and a utilitarian rear apron. There are also carbon-fiber mirror covers and an optional LED entrance lights which adds to the attractive styling of the Brabus C-Class.

The remarkable interior features of the Brabus C-Class are handcrafted with Mastik leather upholstery complete with Alcantara accents that is aside from the numerous carbon-fiber and wood trim kits. Accessories that include a sculpted sports steering wheel, aluminum foot pedals and an optimistic 330 km/h speedometer are also available as option.

It must be reassuring on the part of Mercedes-Benz knowing that there are companies like the Brabus that make use of their vehicles to compete head-to-head with the mighty BMW Series.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://www.autoblog.com

Author: For more about you Mercedes parts needs like Mercedes ignition coil, visit your trusted online source. Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

The Brabus C-Class

Related Post For 2008 Brabus C-Class - Autos Review

• 2008 BMW M3 Coupe Review
• BMW M-Series
• 2008 BMW 650i Pros and Cons
• The Race Car Inspired BMW M3
• Why Mercedes Benz AMG Top Of The Line Luxury Cars?
  

As the first truck developed by GM’s Performance Division, Trailblazer SS’ has a towing capacity up to 6,700 pounds with the two-wheel drive model and up to 6,500 pounds with the available all-wheel drive model. Cargo volume is 41 cubic feet (1161 liters) behind the rear seat and 80 cubic feet (2265 liters) with the rear seat folded.

GM's High Performance Vehicle Operations tuned the suspension and upgraded the brakes of the SS. It features stiffer springs, an inch lower ride height, and thicker anti-roll bars, as well as standard StabiliTrak stability control. Larger, 12.8-inch diameter front brake discs are fitted, allied to new iron twin-piston calipers, while the monster twenty-inch aluminum wheels have 255/50 V-rated tires.

The TrailBlazer SS has unique exterior styling and specific interior appointments, including prominent 20-inch flangeless wheels. Power is delivered by the Corvette-derived LS2 6.0L V-8, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. A performance suspension with lowered ride height also is part of the package and was tuned by GM’s Performance Division at several racetracks, including Germany’s legendary Nurburgring – a challenging road course that features more than 12.5 miles of turns and drastic elevation changes. The TrailBlazer SS is available in two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations...






The four-wheel disc braking system of the TrailBlazer SS is enhanced with larger, 12.8-inch front disc brake rotors and new, iron twin-piston calipers. The heavy-duty iron calipers are stiff and retain their shape under high pressure/high heat braking conditions, providing a linear feel and reduced pedal travel in high-energy stops. The brake pads use the same high-performance linings as the Corvette for strong fade resistance. ABS is standard. There also is an accessory front brake-cooling package available for optimized track performance.

Chevrolet's engineers did extensive chassis tuning to the Trailblazer SS where they lowered the suspension 1-inch and add 25% stiffer springs. The ride height has been lowered about an inch using 25 percent stiffer for a firmer ride and reducing body roll, and to give the TrailBlazer SS a lower, more aggressive demeanor.

The SS model remains distinct with black-diamond grille, decklid spoiler, and generally looking more like the NASCAR cars Gordon campaigns. It has 20-inch polished aluminum wheels and four-wheel disks (12.8-inch rotors at the front). StabiliTrak and a rear air-leveling suspension are also standard for the SS.

The TrailBlazer SS’s engine has a composite intake manifold used in other mid-size trucks and was adapted to the LS2 to help produce balanced torque and horsepower within packaging parameters. The engine also has the Trailblazer's trademark pass-through oil pan. The pan’s cast-in passage allows the front differential’s half-shaft to run through the pan instead of under it. This helps keep the engine mounted lower in the chassis for better balance and a lower center of gravity. There also is a stylish SS-specific engine cover, radiator support cover and coordinated air induction box.

Backing the 6.0L V-8 is a new Hydra-Matic 4L70-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. It debuts in the TrailBlazer SS and was developed to handle the high horsepower and high torque loads of performance-oriented light-duty vehicles. Special high-strength and heat-treated materials are used throughout the 4L70-E to ensure it delivers smooth, dependable shifting.

Partstrain manufactures and sells aftermarket performance products and accessories for GM vehicles. Partstrain strives to be the ultimate source for performance products and accessories for most GM vehicles.

Parts train's product line-up for the Chevrolet Trailblazer SS includes Engine system, Electrical system, Header, Exhaust, Hoods, Hubcaps, multiple Body Kit designs, Suspension, Condensers, Bumpers, Radiator Support, Spoiler, Catalytic Converter, and a variety of additional upgrades that compliment the car.

Its extensive array of maximum quality GMC Replacement Parts and great wholesale deals await you at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/GMC . A wide variety of maximum quality Chevrolet Replacement Parts, Aftermarket Parts, Performance Parts and great wholesale deals await you in our online store. In case you have any difficulties in choosing Chevrolet Parts, its friendly customer service representatives are ready to serve you.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://www.edmunds.com

Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. Visit http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/GMC

2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer SS Plus the Chevrolet Performance

Related Post:

• 2008 Chevrolet Colorado Review
• Shopping Online for Trucks Parts
• Top 5 Trucks for Gas Mileage
• Applying for Trucks Permit
• Hybrid Trucks
  

The 2008 Chevrolet Colorado is a compact truck that combines affordability above-average fuel economy and capability. Its new features include distinctive rugged styling, efficient power, extended-cab and crew cab body configurations, a choice of two- or four-wheel-drive configurations and off-road package.

The '08 Colorado comes with two- or four-wheel drive in three body-style configurations namely regular cab, extended cab with short reverse-opening doors or crew cab with four regular forward-swinging doors and a 5-foot cargo box. Meanwhile, you may opt for three primary trim levels which include the base "Work Truck", midlevel LS and high-quality LT. The "Work Truck" features air-conditioning and an AM/FM stereo while the LS offers upgraded seating and trim. The LT comes standard with in-dash CD changer, larger five- cylinder engine, accessories and remote keyless entry. Other options include heated leather seats, a six-disc CD changer, satellite radio, sunroof, grille cards, bed extender and 18-inch wheels.

The Colorado's standard 2.9-liter four-cylinder engine makes 185 horsepower and torque of 190 pound-feet with an optional 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder with 242 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque. Most four-cylinder Colorados comes with five-speed manual transmission while a four-speed automatic is standard on five-cylinder trucks...






Standard antilock brakes, OnStar emergency communications, side impact airbags and traction control provide safety and convenience. The Colorado earned perfect five-star rating in government frontal impact crash tests for the protection of the driver and front passenger and a four-star rating for front occupant protection in side-impact testing.

The interior design of the 2008 Colorado is simple with an organized layout of controls and gauges. Another great feature is the presence of a dual-position tailgate that provides better support. However, rear legroom is not as spacious as the room up front and the rear door openings are also small.

The 2008 Chevrolet Colorado has a reasonably smooth engine with softly tuned suspension that promises a comfortable ride at an affordable price.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://www.edmunds.com

Be sure to visit the Automobile Forums at http://www.TheAutomobileForum.com today! We hope that you enjoyed this 2008 Chevrolet Colorado review!

2008 Chevrolet Colorado Review - A Review of the 2008 Chevrolet Colorado Truck

Related Post:

• Truck Service Body - Designed To Cater To Your Individual Needs
• Shopping Online For Truck Parts
• The 1990 Dodge Dakota
  

When you think about the Dodge Avenger, more than likely race car is not the first thing that comes to mind. However, once you see the 2007 Dodge Avenger NASCAR, race car will be the only thing in your mind when you think about it. Dodge has now created a special racing version of the Avenger to race in various races as the Car of Tomorrow. With a red, white, and blue paint scheme, this car definitely has the look of a racing car. Of course while the racing version of the car is only for the race track there is also a great street version of this car as well that you can actually own for yourself.

Take a look at the 2007 Dodge Avenger NASCAR and what you'll see is a car that looks very much like the Dodge Charger, just a smaller version of it. The new Avenger sports a tough muscular look that many people love and its' styling is both aggressive and bold. It comes with plenty of power under the hood as well, with a 2.7 liter 6 speed automatic. No doubt that will give about anyone all the power that they want and need in this type of a car. Of course there is more to this car than power; in fact, there are a variety of great features available as well....




There are many great features available in the 2007 Dodge Avenger NASCAR that set it apart from many other of the cars in its' class. One new feature is called the Chill Zone, which is a special compartment that will keep up to four cans cold and it is in the front of the dashboard for easy access. You can also get a cup holder in the front that will either cool or heat your drink for you for drinking comfort. There is a special fabric that is being used for the seats, called YES fabric. This fabric is especially designed to keep stains from soaking in and to keep the seats looking great throughout the life of the car.

Several entertainment features are also available in the Avenger too. You can get the car equipped with a rear seat DVD entertainment center. It plays DVD's, CD's and even MP3's as well. A great stereo system is also to be had in this innovative car. The car also features special LED lighting to provide light in the back and front of the vehicle interior when it is needed, which is great for reading maps or for passengers that want to read when it is dark outside.

Not only do you get high performance and power with the 2007 Dodge Avenger NASCAR, but you also get all of these great features as well. With the sleek design and variety of features offered you may be thinking that this car is out of your price range; however, it is actually priced quite reasonably. The pricing of the Avenger is actually quite competitive and depends on the features that you choose, but you can probably expect to pay between $16,000 - $25,000 for this vehicle.

In essence, this car has been developed to replace the Dodge Stratus, which is no longer being produced. While it seems to be a bit of a knock off of the Dodge Charger, it also has a personality that is all its' own. This car takes safety seriously, and there are a variety of great safety features, including electronic stability control and side curtain airbags, as well as an ABS braking system and other standard front seat airbags. It is spacious and comfortable as well, even for those who are quite tall.

The styling of the 2007 Dodge Avenger NASCAR is definitely cutting edge, as is the technology that is used on the vehicle. For those who want a powerful car that has a hip look, this just may be the one you are looking for. So, next time you watch the Dodge Avenger Car of Tomorrow race, why not consider getting your own version of this hot car that you can drive on the street, enjoying the power and style that it affords you for an excellent price.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://www.rm-indy.com

Search and post new cars, used cars, luxury cars, prestige cars, concept cars, sports cars, hydro cars, SUVs, CUVs, convertibles, trucks, pickups, vans, minivans, coupes, sedans and read car reviews at VehicleRide.com.

2007 Dodge Avenger NASCAR

Blogs, car sites, and auto shows have been hyping up the concept Dodge Challenger to the point where you would think that the car is almost ready to roll off of a DCX assembly line. To say that the prototype is being well received is an understatement -- quite frankly if the Challenger was available for sale today the waiting list would be many months long. Such is the demand for a retro car that takes its styling cues right from the ’71 Challenger.

As it currently stands, the car will be built as DaimlerChrysler has given its blessing to the new Challenger. Still, the Challenger is more than three years from being manufactured as it is likely to be released some time during 2009 as a 2010 model. Yes, the wait will be hard for many, but if the hype equals the performance, then the wait will certainly be worth your while.

Some people are against the whole retro car revolution. Citing that Detroit must reach back in time to make relevant cars is a testimony to the each automaker’s woes. On the contrary, I believe the many revived models currently being planned or already on our streets is a clear testimony to Detroit finally listening to its customers: we want cars that are uniquely styled and we want them to perform exactly the way you will say they will perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on a car that pales in comparison to the original. No, we don’t want you to build the original model we want you to build the original model better. Take the styling cues and run with them and incorporate modern technology to improve upon the original design. That’s all we ask...




So, just what can enthusiasts expect when they take delivery of their Challenger? Well, like I said the car is still in the planning stages, but what I have gleaned from various sites is the following information:

Modified Platform -- If you like the Mercedes based LX platform currently used to run the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is planning to modify the LX platform for its next generation of vehicles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many cars built upon it. Some have suggested that the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.

Did Someone Say Hemi? -- Every Mopar product of significance will have optional Hemi power and the Challenger is no exception. Expect a V6 to be standard with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the car. Some have suggested that the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be made available for the Challenger.

Ragtop Regalia -- Chrysler says that the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top car to market [other than the Viper, of course] . Despite this bit of information, look for a Challenger convertible to show up one or two years after the car’s debut. Heck, if DCX doesn’t want to build one then aftermarket coach builders will do the job for them. You can bet that Dodge dealers will make these arrangements if DCX doesn’t.

Yes, the Challenger won’t be in new car showrooms any time soon. For those of us waiting with “baited breath” we’ll have to console ourselves with the many blogs, sites, and car shows hyping the car. Other than that, just imagine your shiny new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo:
http://pictures.topspeed.com
http://www.thetorquereport.com

Copyright 2006 - Matt Keegan is The Auto Writer covering topics such as new cars, the classic, car parts, accessories, auto trends, and much more. Matt invites you to visit the Speedy Performance Parts store for all the best parts and accessories for your hot wheels.

2010 Dodge Challenger: Back to the Future