Archive for the ‘Detroit Auto Show’ Category

Halloween is done and Thanksgiving is looming, so that can only mean one thing: just two more months until the 2010 Detroit auto show! This year's gathering will see a new display area for up to 20 electric vehicles -- many of which come from smaller companies like San Jose's Green Vehicles that couldn't ordinarily afford to display at the show. This is a great way for NAIAS to generate revenue and buzz, and we dig the idea of seeing startup automakers given a chance to shine, but we wish EV engines were louder: we're expecting an endless loop of terrible background music down on "Electric Avenue". [Freep]

Audi is in the midst of a transformation--according to company executives, it's the right moment in history for the brand to push through brand prejudices in the U.S. and to find a place alongside Lexus, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Change has already come to Audi for the 2010 model year: this week, Audi took High Gear Media for first drives in the R8 V-10 supercar, the S5 Cabriolet and the S4 sport sedan. The real action starts next year, however, as Audi unveils a replacement for its large A8 luxury sedan, shows the production version of its A7 four-door coupe, and polishes off development on a new A6 range.

First comes the Audi A8. Speculation...

When the Cadillac Converj concept debuted in Detroit last January, many were awed by its stylish looks and its green pedigree. (Like the Chevrolet Volt, the Converj is powered by an electric motor, which can be recharged on-the-go by a gasoline engine.) Sure, pairing the Cadillac brand and an electric powertrain seemed a little odd, but no one could really complain about having brains and beauty in one package.

Fast forward a couple of months to General Motors' reorganization: in trying to pick the most profitable path for GM, some upper-level managers and members of the federal auto task force voiced concerns about the Converj and its...