Wales to host the first carbon neutral FIA World Rally Championship

In this day and age of increased environmental awareness, not even motorsports are granted exclusion from the eco-friendly expectations which all companies and organizations are held to. Of course, it's not just the racing itself that causes carbon emissions, as the fans attending the event need to travel in order to get there. In fact, as you can see from the graph below, when race organizers for the upcoming Wales Rally GB in December did some fact-finding, they found that the race vehicles accounted for just 5-percent of the 4,333 metric tons of overall CO₂ emitted into the atmosphere. In order to make the actual race the first carbon neutral FIA Rally event, organizers have instituted car-pooling for officials and marshals as well as replacing battery-powered flashlights with wind-up alternatives and planning full-scale recycling. The remaining CO₂ will be offset through credits from The CarbonNeutral Company.

The Wales Rally GB is already looking towards the future. The event believes that it can significantly reduce the amount of CO₂ emitted from the event in the coming years, lessening the amount of offsets necessary to remain carbon neutral. After all, it's better not to emit in the first place than to cover it up afterward

Oobject lists 15 "Splendid Sidecars"

Those of you considering a motorcycle for its undeniable visceral thrills, or even its fuel savings, should consider another option which could add a bit more practicality to your new two-wheeler: the sidecar. Sure, you'll lose out on some performance -- both in a straight line and in the twisty bits -- but you'll easily make that up when the coolness factor is counted in. What, you don't think sidecars are cool? How wrong you are, and oobject has fifteen bits of proof for you to consider. From fully enclosed luxury to rocket-shaped sidecars, there are plenty of options to choose from. How about one modeled after a fighter plane? Covered. A land-speed record sidecar? Check.

Even though those novelty sidecars are pretty awesome pieces, the good ol' plain-jane sidecar steals the show as far as we're concerned. Whether hung off the side of a older BMW airhead or a retro Stella scooter, three-wheeled travel just doesn't get much cooler than with the rounded-front and high-windshield of the classic motorcycle sidecar.

GM's hybrid powertrain director gives PHEV update

A row of Saturn Vue PHEVs in Milford's building 16 garage

GM may have been late to the party when it came to hybrids, but they are now throwing resources at a bunch of different parallel paths that including electric drive. There are already cars and CUVs with mild hybrid systems and full-size SUVs with Two-Mode hybrid systems. Later this fall pickup trucks and Saturn Vues will also get the Two-Mode system. Then there is of course the E-Flex Chevy Volt. Sometime around the end of 2009 GM's first plug-hybrid should debut also in the shape of the Vue. At the Plug-In 2008 conference Larry Nitz, the Executive Director of the hybrid powertrain engineering at GM provided an updated on the Vue PHEV program. After initiating development with nickel metal hydride batteries, the team based in Building 16 at the Milford proving ground now has 11 plug-in Vues running with lithium ion batteries. If the PHEV Vue makes it by the end of next year it will likely be the first commercially available plug-in hybrid from a major carmaker. The Vue is expected to have about 10 miles of electric driving range on a full charge.

BMW creates two-wheel drive off-road bike

Click on the image above for more shots of the 2WD BMW concept bike

A rider needs to be just a bit off their rocker to have any chance of winning a European hill climbing event, but some really effective machinery can make the task slightly easier. With that in mind, BMW, long considered to be a rather staid and proper bike manufacturer, has gone off the deep end by creating a two-wheel drive off-road hill climbing machine. Powered by slightly modified version of the parallel twin engine used in the German marque's F800 and new GS machines, the liquid cooled mill should offer nearly one-hundred horsepower to both wheels. Getting that power to the ground in front is what appears to be a hydraulic pump and motor system mounted to the beefy front forks. Spinning forces originate from a dual sprocket with chains leading to the rear axle and up into the bodywork.

With dedicated racing machinery like this and the new 450cc four-stroke dirt bike project, BMW is most definitely leaving its mild roots behind. Unfortunately, no production plans are currently in the works for the impressive hill climbing bike, though we look forward to seeing what else comes from the fertile minds at BMW Motorrad.

The Dark Knight's shoulder-driven Batpod

Over the last 70 years, Batman has driven all sorts of vehicles, with a wide array of Batmobiles, planes, bikes and boats appearing in the various comic books, television series and movies. Arguably none have been as wickedly exciting, however, as the Tumbler which the superhero drove in the most recent Batman Begins. But with the sequel swooping into theaters this week, we're in store for a new piece of kit.

Called the Batpod, we've been bringing you details of the new motorcycle as they've become available. The Batpod is driven by a pair of motors hidden within the giant 20-inch wheels and steered by the shoulder, allowing the Caped Crusader to operate an arsenal of machine guns and grappling hooks. We'll have to hold on just a little bit longer to see it in action on the big screen, but in the meantime you can check out the images from the Batmobile's and Batpod's demonstration at Silverstone with the Toyota F1 crew in the high-resolution image bat-gallery

Officially Official: Harley-Davidson purchases MV Agusta, Cagiva

Click above for high-res gallery of the H-D Night Rod Special

Earlier rumors of an impending purchase by Harley-Davidson of Italian bike maker MV Agusta turned out to be spot-on, as the American Motor Company has officially announced the deal today. The total price for MV, which also owns Cagiva, is reported at about $109 million, with $70 million of that sum required to pay off MV's debt. Claudio Castiglioni, who's family had previously owned the company privately, will remain on board and will serve as Chairman. Castiglioni stands to pocket an undisclosed sum in 2016 if he is able to meet certain stipulated profit goals.

This new deal is an interesting one on a few levels. First, HD already owns a sportbike brand, though its Buell subsidiary plays on a very different level than MV Agusta. The influx of cash from Harley should do wonders for MV's current range of sports and naked bikes, and may allow a greater number of customers access to the storied Italian marque. Consider the fact that Buell was a very small player with a number of quality problems before the Motor Company stepped in and fixed the situation. Additionally, the MV Agusta and Cagiva brands carry quite a strong legacy of high quality machines and will lend instant credibility in Europe and America to Harley's sporting credentials. The full press release is posted after the break.

Gunbus motorcycle finished, proves just excessive enough

Click above for more shots of the Gunbus motorcycle

When it comes to custom motorcycle builders, there's crazy and there's really crazy. Falling into the latter category is one Mr. Clemens F. Leonhardt, who has just finished building what he refers to as "the world's biggest motorcycle." Excluding some other crazy creations, such as the Monster Bike, the guy's got a point. Unlike other two-wheeled behemoths, the Leonhardt Gunbus is actually ready to ride on normal roads and will soon go into series production. That's right... you'll actually be able to buy one of these. Next on the agenda is an equally massive sidecar, which somehow seems just right for this bike.

A quick glance at the pictures shows just how monumental that 410-cubic-inch, air-cooled, pushrod V-Twin really is. Of course, a monster of an engine must require an impressively large bike, and the Gunbus is certainly that, looking bit like a caricature of a bike with the fittingly attractive blonde model sitting on top. Whatever -- we want one.

Tata Nano to come in diesel, electric flavors

click above for more images of the Tata Nano

Those in emerging markets hoping to get their hands on the cheapest car in the world may soon have a few more option boxes to consider checking. Chairman Ratan Tata has said in the past that an electric-only version of the Tata Nano is likely, and now industry sources are saying that a diesel engine is also in the works. Displacing 800cc and including common-rail injection from Bosch and a Honeywell turbocharger, the diesel engine has been designed by German powertrain specialist FEV, the same firm that India's Mahindra reportedly contacted for help with its latest diesel hybrid engine.

We don't yet know what kind of fuel mileage the diesel would offer, but the twin cylinder gas engine standard in the Nano is good for 54 U.S. miles per gallon and the diesel should better that figure somewhat, though most likely for a slight increase in price.

Harley-Davidson rolls out new 2009 V-Rod Muscle

The original V-Rod was described as a muscle bike when it was introduced, competing against such intense machines as the original V Max from Yamaha and the Rocket III from Triumph. This year, The Motor Company has seen fit to actually introduce a new model based on that same VRSC platform that carries the name Muscle. Let's get this out of the way now: we're not fans of the moniker. Despite the odd name, we like what makes this machine different from other models sharing the same platform with its liquid cooled 1250cc V-Twin engine. For instance, that new rear fender with its integrated stoplight looks great, as do the dual exhausts with one pipe on each side. One questionable styling choice could be the airbox extensions, which appear riveted into place.

All VRSC models get optional ABS for their Brembo triple disc brakes, including the new VRSCF. The Muscle shares the same 240 mm rear tire that was on our Night Rod Special test bike, and it looks just as mean in this application as it did there, while that fat rubber surrounds new five spoke cast wheels.

Harley-Davidson launches new 2009 Tri Glide Ultra Classic

Considering the growing popularity of the trike market -- and we don't mean the old VW-based creations made popular in the seventies -- we wonder why it took Harley-Davidson so long to introduce its own three-wheeler. Based on the Electra Glide Touring chassis, the Tri Glide uses a belt final drive to connect a new air-suspended rear differential to the six-speed Cruise Drive transmission common to all Harley Big Twins. At the front, rake and trail have been increased to lend a bit more stability to the package while a steering stabilizer is intended to reduce front-end wobble. For the ultimate in ease of use, consider the optional electric reverse gear for an additional $1,195. Dual 15-inch rear wheels come fitted with P205/65R15 tires.

The same Tour-Pak from the Ultra model works on the Tri Glide along with the normal "bat wing" fairing that Harley-Davidson has made famous over the years. Moving all this mass down the road is a new fuel-injected Twin Cam 103 V-Twin engine that offers up 101 lb.-ft. of torque. A six-gallon fuel tank ought to keep you going about as long as your bladder can handle, and the standard cruise control will get you where you need to go with a minimum of fuss. While we personally prefer to tour on two wheels, we're sure HD will find a few buyers for the new Tri Glide, even at its $30,000 suggested retail price, which is actually a decent deal considering how much a conversion kit runs these days.

Triumph introduces new 2010 Thunderbird

Click above for a few more shots of the 2010 Triumph Thunderbird

We've seen plenty of spy photos circulating the web of Triumph's long-expected parallel twin cruiser, so the introduction of the new 2010 Thunderbird is anything but shocking. We are a bit surprised, though, by how plain-looking the bike is, appearing very much like a modern Bonneville injected with steroids performance enhancing drugs. With its blacked-out liquid cooled parallel engine, the bike bares a passing resemblance to Kawasaki's rather ancient Vulcan 500 model... not good. In any case, we are counting on competitive performance from the rather large 1600cc engine, which should offer somewhat more than a hundred horses. Considering just how massive the shove one gets from Triumph's Rocket III cruiser, we have high hopes for this new cruiser mill.

Rumors indicate that more variations on this basic Thunderbird theme will come out of the woodwork in due time, including the now-expected touring model. All models will likely share the same basic frame, engine and six speed gearbox. ABS is said to be optional. We look forward to seeing more shots of the new Thunderbird, hopefully ones that show the bike in a bit better light.

Harley-Davidson launches two new 2009 models

Click above for more shots of the 2009 VRSCF V-Rod Muscle

Harley-Davidson, the definitive American motorcycle manufacturer, has released its 2009 models, and there are a few surprises to take note of, including the introductions of two brand new bikes. The VRSCF V-Rod Muscle (above) builds on the same liquid cooled platform of past VR models and adds a new rear fender design, dual side exhaust pipes and revised bodywork to the wide 240 mm rear tire that some models already feature. The second new bike is The Motor Company's first trike, the Tri Glide. Using a brand new rear differential along with air suspension in back, Harley looks to capitalize on the growing three-wheeler trend in the states.

In other news, HD has also revised the frame of all its '09 Touring models, and we recently got the chance to feel the new, more solid-feeling frame ourselves. It's a definite improvement, especially important since the revised Tour-Pak is capable of holding even more gear and weight. Nearly all new Duna and Sportster models feature a new front fender said to more closely follow the contour of the front wheel, improving the appearance of the bikes in the process.

Aprilia RSV 1000 R

Click above for more high-res images of the Aprilia RSV 1000 R

When the sportbike discussion inevitably turns to outright performance, the Aprilia RSV 1000R is usually left out of the equation. It is true that the Italian bike is down on horsepower when compared with its racier relatives from Ducati and especially against the inline four machines from the Japanese manufacturers. While the Big Four from Japan continuously improve their unique (but very similar) breed of liter-class sportbikes with completely new designs every few years, Aprilia has sat back and made very small and incremental changes to its V-Twin contestant, and though its acceleration is surely a tick or two behind the leaders, it is important to consider the fact that everything is relative in the world of liter-bikes. Remember, barring something truly special, any liter-class sportbike from the last decade is sure to be the quickest vehicle on any given road. So, what does the Aprilia offer to make up for its apparent lack of horsepower? Read on.

GM's Larry Nitz confirms Volt will use 1.4L four cylinder, talks Two-Mode

The man in charge of hybrid powertrain development at GM Larry Nitz has confirmed that the E-Flex team has made the decision to switch engines for the range extender in the upcoming Chevy Volt. The original concept was to use a turbocharged 1.0L three cylinder engine to drive the generator. Instead they have decided to use a 1.4L normally aspirated version of the engine that will power the upcoming Chevy Cruze in turbo form. Nitz also discussed the issue of why performance of the Volt won't be degraded when running in charge sustaining mode, the status of the Plug-in Vue and expansion of Two-Mode hybrid availability.

2009 Buell Lightning XB9SX

2009 Buell Lightning XB9SX

2009 Buell Lightning XB9SX

2009 Buell Lightning XB9SX

2009 Buell Lightning XB9SX

A Streetfighter for the middle-weight class, the CityX was designed especially for the urban environment. The quick-revving nature and broad powerband of the Buell Thunderstorm 984 V-Twin engine lets the CityX pull briskly away from traffic and acceleration past pesky cabs, while an upright rider position, wide Supermoto-style handlebars and intuitive handling help the CityX scat around potholes and dodge through back alleys. A new saddle shape for 2009 drops the seat height by 1.3 inches to 30.1 inches. Hand deflectors, dual headlight grilles, and frame pucks fend off minor cosmetic damage. Pirelli Scorpion Sync tires grip all road surfaces and add aggressive style. Available with Cherry Bomb Translucid or Hero Blue Translucid bodywork.

Buell Lightning CityX XB9SX highlights

Buell Thunderstorm 984cc air/oil/fan-cooled, four-stroke, 45-degree V-Twin engine
92 peak hp @ 7500 rpm (per SAE J607)
70 ft. lbs. peak torque @ 5500 rpm (per SAE J607)
DDFI 3 Electronic Fuel Injection ECM
Eight-row oil cooler with Jiffy-tite fittings
New stronger Veyance Hibrex drive belt with Flexten Plus technology
Fully adjustable 43 mm Showa inverted fork
Fully adjustable Showa rear shock absorber
Buell ZTL front brake
Dry Weight: 390 pounds
Wheelbase: 52 inches
New Seat height 30.1 inches
Pirelli Scorpion Sync tires
New black engine, frame, swingarm, powertrain and forks
Translucid bodywork with X-Guard on airbox cover
Supermoto-style crossbar handlebars with deflectors
Headlight grille
Cosmetic frame pucks
Pre-Wired for Accessory Heated Grip



SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions
Overall Length6 76.2 in. (1935 mm)
Overall Width8 29.7 in. (755 mm)
Seat Height7 30.1 in. (765 mm)
Ground Clearance6 4.35 in. (110 mm)
Rake7 (steering head) 21.0°
Fork Angle7 21.0°
Lean Angle9:
• Soft Contact, Right 42°
• Soft Contact, Left 42°
• Hard Contact, Right 50°
• Hard Contact, Left 48°
Trail7 3.3 in. (83 mm)
Wheelbase6 52.0 in. (1320 mm)
Tires4 (Pirelli® Scorpion® Sync®):
• Front 120/70 ZR-17
• Rear 180/55 ZR-17
Fuel Capacity 3.82 gal. (14.5 L)
Reserve Fuel Capacity 0.75 gal. (2.8 L)

Fuel Economy2
(EPA urban/highway test) 50/65 mpg (4.7/3.6 L/100 km)
Weight:
• Dry Weight 390 lbs. (177 kg)
• Gross Vehicle 850 lbs. (386 kg)
Weight Rating Load Capacity 396 lbs. (180 kg)

Engine
Engine Thunderstorm® air/oil/fan-cooled, 4-stroke, 45° V-Twin
Valves OHV, two valves per cylinder, self-adjusting
Bore x Stroke 3.500 in. x 3.125 in. (88.90 mm x 79.38 mm)
Displacement 60.0 cu. in. (984 cc)
Compression Ratio 10.0:1
Fuel Delivery 45 mm down draft DDFI III

Fuel injection
Intake Zero-resistance airbox
Exhaust Tuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with mass-centralized mounting
Torque
(North America per SAE J607) 70 ft. lbs. @ 5500 rpm (94.9 nm @ 5500 rpm)
Horsepower
(North America per SAE J607) 92 hp @ 7500 rpm
Lubrication Dry-sump
Oil Capacity10 2.5 qts. (2.4 L)
Oil Filtration Screw-on disposable element

Drivetrain
Primary Drive Chain, 1.676:1 (57/34) ratio
Final Drive3 Constant path, 14 mm pitch aramidreinforced
Veyance Hibrex® belt with Flexten® Plus technology, 2.407:1 (65/27) ratio
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, compensated
Transmission 5-speed, helical gear
Gear Ratios:
• 1st 2.648
• 2nd 1.892
• 3rd 1.407
• 4th 1.166
• 5th 1.000

Chassis4
Frame Aluminum frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame
Front Forks 43 mm Showa® inverted forks with adjustable compression damping,
rebound damping and spring preload
Rear Shock Showa® coil-over monoshock with remote, under-seat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Wheels: Hero Blue Translucent or Cherry Bomb Translucent
• Front 6-spoke, ZTL™ cast aluminum, 3.5 in. x 17 in. (88.9 mm x 431.8 mm)
• Rear 6-spoke, cast aluminum, 5.5 in. x 17 in. (139.7 mm x 431.8 mm)
Brakes:
• Front
ZTL™ brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper; 375 mm single-sided, inside-out, stainless steel, floating rotor
• Rear
Single-piston, floating caliper; 240 mm stainless steel, fixed rotor
Suspension Travel:
• Front Wheel 4.72 in. (120 mm)
• Rear Wheel 5.06 in. (129 mm)

Electric
Battery (per Battery Council International Rating) Sealed lead acid, maintenance-free, 12V, 12-amp/hour, 200 cca
Charging 30-amp, permanent magnet, singlephase alternator with solid-state regulator (405W @3000 rpm, 405W peak)
Starting 1.2 kW electric with solenoid shift starter motor engagement
Lights (as per country regulation):
• Headlamps (twin quartz halogen [H7]) 55-watt low beam, 55-watt high beam
• Tail/Stop Lights 5W/21W
• Turn Signal Lights 10W manual canceling
• License Plate Light 5W

Instruments
Electronic speedometer, tachometer, odometer; dual tripmeter; high beam, neutral, oil, low fuel (plus, odometer shows miles traveled on reserve), turn signal and engine diagnostic indicator lamps; clock

Colors5
Hero Blue Translucid, Cherry Bomb Translucid

Warranty
Warranty 24 months (unlimited mileage)
1 Specifications for non-U.S. markets might differ. Buell reserves the right to
discontinue models or change specifications at any time without incurring any
obligations. Vehicle specifications may vary from country to country depending on
local laws. Some models are not available in certain countries.
2 Based on tests conducted under lab conditions per U.S. E.P.A. test procedures.
Mileage will vary depending on personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip
length and vehicle condition.
3 Hibrex® and Flexten® are registered trademarks of Veyance Technologies, Inc.
4 Showa® and Pirelli® are registered trademarks of their respective owners.
5 Availability may vary from dealer to dealer, and is subject to change without notice.
6 Unladen, wet configuration (no rider, all fluids).
7 Laden, wet configuration (design rider, all fluids).
8 Without mirrors.
9 Bottomed-out configuration (100% suspension compression).
10 Oil capacity at oil change with filter.

Media Press Release:

LIQUID-COOLED 1125CR JOINS BUELL STREET LINE-UP
Sophisticated Aggression from a 21st Century Café Racer

EAST TROY, Wis. (July 22, 2008) – Part superbike and part streetfighter, the 2009 Buell 1125CR combines the soul of the classic café racer with the thrilling performance and advanced technology demanded by today’s most-passionate sportbike riders.

The new 1125CR joins three XB Lightning models in the Buell Street line-up for 2009: The Lightning CityX XB9SX is a quick-revving middleweight designed to negotiate the traffic and potholes of the urban roadscape. The lowered suspension and seat shape of the Lightning XB12Scg offer a shorter reach to the ground with no performance compromise. The Lightning XB12Ss offers an expanded cockpit, low profile sculpted seat and increased suspension travel featured previously on the Lightning Super TT XB12STT. The Super TT and XB12S will not be produced for 2009.

Buell motorcycles are distilled from the three elements of the Buell Trilogy of Technology – mass centralization, chassis rigidity, and low unsprung weight – to produce a motorcycle which responds instantly to rider input. The styling is aggressive and deliberately displays the mechanical elements of Buell’s innovative design. The broad powerband of a Buell V-Twin engine keeps abundant power on tap at all times, in all gears and in any situation.

New on Buell Streetfighters for 2009
Blacked-Out Component Styling – To reinforce the aggressive styling of the Buell Streetfighter line, new black finishes are applied to the frame, swingarm, engine, fork tubes, triple clamps, brake calipers and other components.

ZTL2 Front Brake – XB Lightning models powered by the 1203 Thunderstorm engine are now equipped with the ZTL2 front brake. The eight-piston caliper design offers a larger pad surface, optimizes heat-dissipation capability and allows even pressure distribution over each of the four pads in the caliper. A single 375 mm stainless steel rotor mounted directly to the wheel rim produces outstanding stopping power, weighs less than a dual-disc system, and permits the use of a very lightweight front wheel that helps reduce steering inertia and unsprung weight.

Improved Drive Belt – A new Veyance Hibrex drive belt with Flexten Plus technology, based on the belt developed for the Buell 1125R, is stronger and more durable than the previous drive belt.

Buell 1125CR
Naked styling and clubman-style handlebar give a respectful nod to the nostalgic era of café racers. A 146-hp liquid-cooled V-Twin engine is geared for acceleration. Sinister styling.

Sophisticated technology. The 1125CR, Erik Buell’s 21st century interpretation of the classic café racer, is a new motorcycle that defies convention and expands the streetfigher category in the direction of superbike performance.

Positioned behind the black-anodized, tapered aluminum clubman-style handlebar and streamlined headlight and flyscreen, the rider has a wide-open view forward that intensifies the sensation of speed. With a dry weight of 375 pounds, the 1125CR is the lightest liter-class streetfighter on the market, and combined with 146 horsepower, it offers the best weight-to-horsepower ratio in the category.

The Buell 1125CR offers liquid-cooled technology and responsive handling from a proven platform based on the Buell Trilogy of Tech principles. The Buell Helicon 1125 powertrain provides the foundation for this riding experience. This 1125cc DOHC V-Twin engine features a compact, 72-degree design and is rated at 146 crankshaft horsepower and 82 ft. lbs. of peak torque. Buell DDFI3 closed-loop EFI produces throttle operation with a quick, smooth response.

New for 2009 on the 1125R and 1125CR models are targeted fuel injectors, relocated O2 sensors, and updated engine spark and fuel maps. The combination of these features offers improved drivability below 6000rpm, even crisper throttle response, improved heat management, and significantly improved fuel economy. The updated engine spark and fuel maps will also be made available for 2008 1125R models. A ram-air system pressurizes the 12-liter air box for a gain in peak performance. Twin side mounted radiators within aerodynamic cowlings lower the center of gravity (cg) and centralize mass. The exhaust system features an underslung muffler mounted below the engine to optimize cg location and mass centralization. An HVA (Hydraulic Vacuum Assist) Slipper Action clutch features hydraulic actuation from the hand control with assistance from engine vacuum for lighter clutch effort and reduced engine braking. Low 76/27 (2.815:1) final-drive gearing produces outstanding acceleration.

The engine is rigid-mounted as a structural component of the Buell Intuitive Response Chassis (IRC) that has outstanding torsional stiffness, yet is compliant in the planes required to help absorb mid-corner bumps, and doubles as a 5.3-gallon fuel reservoir. Showa 47 mm inverted forks and a Showa rear shock absorber are both fully adjustable. Positive braking performance is provided by the Buell ZTL2 front brake system. The rear brake caliper is mounted directly to the inner surface of the swing arm and weighs 1.5 pounds less than a typical rear-brake design.

All this performance is packaged in a motorcycle that is visually stunning. A narrow headlight pod incorporates a clipped flyscreen, while a removable cowl covers the passenger seat section. The blacked-out frame and chassis components contrast with red highlights on the front brake caliper, wheel rims, rear shock spring and damping adjusters atop the fork tubes. The Buell 1125CR will be offered with Racing Red or Midnight Black bodywork. Production of the 2009 1125CR is scheduled to begin in August 2008.

Buell 1125CR highlights

Buell Helicon 1125cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke 72-degree V-Twin engine
146 peak hp @ 9800 rpm
82 ft. lbs. peak torque at 8000 rpm
76/27 final drive gearing optimized for acceleration
Underslung muffler with Helmholtz chamber
DDFI 3 Electronic Fuel Injection ECM
Ram-air pressurized air box
Twin side-mount radiators
HVA (Hydraulic Vacuum Assist) Slipper Action clutch
ZTL2 four-pad, eight-piston front brake
Fully adjustable 47 mm Showa inverted fork
Fully adjustable Showa rear shock absorber
Fuel-in Frame 5.3-gallon capacity
Dry Weight: 375 pounds
Wheelbase: 54.5 inches
Seat height: 30.5 inches
Pirelli Diablo Corsa III tires
Pre-Wired for Accessory Heated Grips
Buell Lightning XB12Ss
With a 53.7-inch wheelbase, the Lightning Long XB12Ss offers an expanded cockpit for the rider, a larger passenger position and 4.4-gallon fuel-in-frame capacity for extended range. For 2009, the suspension is upgraded to offer the supermoto-like handling previously found on the Lightning Super TT, with front and rear travel extended to 5.6 inches. A new, sculpted Streetfighter saddle maintains seat height at 30.6 inches and covers a handy storage compartment. The new Buell ZTL2 eight-piston front caliper enhances braking performance. A fuel-injected Buell Thunderstorm 1203 V-Twin engine with Buell InterActive Exhaust pounds out the power. The Lightning Long is available with Midnight Black, Cherry Bomb Translucid, or Hero Blue Translucid bodywork.

Buell Lightning XB12Ss highlights

Buell Thunderstorm 1203cc air/oil/fan-cooled four-stroke, 45-degree V-Twin engine
103 peak hp @ 6800 rpm (per SAE J607)
84 ft. lbs. peak torque @ 6000 rpm (per SAE J607)
Buell InterActive Exhaust
DDFI 3 Electronic Fuel Injection ECM
Eight-row oil cooler with Jiffy-tite fittings
New stronger Veyance Hibrex drive belt with Flexten Plus technology
New fully adjustable 43 mm Showa inverted fork with 5.63-inches of travel (was 4.72 inches in 2008)
New fully adjustable Showa rear shock absorber with 5.63 inches of travel (was 4.97 inches in 2008)
New Buell ZTL2 front brake with eight-piston caliper
Dry Weight: 400 pounds
Wheelbase: 53.7 inches
Seat height: 30.6 inches
Fuel in frame 4.4-gallon capacity
Cosmetic Frame Protectors
Pre-Wired for Accessory Heated Grips
Pirelli Diablo T tires
New black engine, frame, swingarm, powertrain and forks
Buell Lightning XB12Scg
Lowered suspension and a reshaped saddle drops the seat height of the XB12Scg to just 28.6 inches – for a lower center of gravity and a shorter reach to the ground – with no compromise to handling or performance. The powerful Buell ZTL2 eight-piston front brake caliper is new for 2009. Blacked-out engine, frame, swingarm, fork and other components give the XB12Scg a menacing new look. The muscular Buell Thunderstorm 1203 V-Twin backs it up with pavement-pounding power. Available with Midnight Black, Cherry Bomb Translucid, or Hero Blue Translucid bodywork.

Buell Lightning XB12Scg highlights

Buell Thunderstorm 1203cc air/oil/fan-cooled, four-stroke, 45-degree V-Twin engine
103 peak hp @ 6800 rpm (per SAE J607)
84 ft. lbs. peak torque @ 6000 rpm (per SAE J607)
Buell InterActive Exhaust
DDFI 3 Electronic Fuel Injection ECM
Eight-row oil cooler with Jiffy-tite fittings
New stronger Veyance Hibrex drive belt with Flexten Plus technology
Fully adjustable 41 mm Showa inverted fork
Fully adjustable Showa rear shock absorber
New Buell ZTL2 front brake with eight-piston caliper
Dry Weight: 395 pounds
Wheelbase: 51.8 inches
Seat height: 28.6 inches
Cosmetic Frame Protectors
Pre-Wired for Accessory Heated Grips
Pirelli Diablo T tires
Available with Translucid bodywork
New black engine, frame, swingarm, powertrain and forks
Buell Lightning CityX XB9SX
A Streetfighter for the middle-weight class, the CityX was designed especially for the urban environment. The quick-revving nature and broad powerband of the Buell Thunderstorm 984 V-Twin engine lets the CityX pull briskly away from traffic and acceleration past pesky cabs, while an upright rider position, wide Supermoto-style handlebars and intuitive handling help the CityX scat around potholes and dodge through back alleys. A new saddle shape for 2009 drops the seat height by 1.3 inches to 30.1 inches. Hand deflectors, dual headlight grilles, and frame pucks fend off minor cosmetic damage. Pirelli Scorpion Sync tires grip all road surfaces and add aggressive style. Available with Cherry Bomb Translucid or Hero Blue Translucid bodywork.

Buell Lightning CityX XB9SX highlights

Buell Thunderstorm 984cc air/oil/fan-cooled, four-stroke, 45-degree V-Twin engine
92 peak hp @ 7500 rpm (per SAE J607)
70 ft. lbs. peak torque @ 5500 rpm (per SAE J607)
DDFI 3 Electronic Fuel Injection ECM
Eight-row oil cooler with Jiffy-tite fittings
New stronger Veyance Hibrex drive belt with Flexten Plus technology
Fully adjustable 43 mm Showa inverted fork
Fully adjustable Showa rear shock absorber
Buell ZTL front brake
Dry Weight: 390 pounds
Wheelbase: 52 inches
New Seat height 30.1 inches
Pirelli Scorpion Sync tires
New black engine, frame, swingarm, powertrain and forks
Translucid bodywork with X-Guard on airbox cover
Supermoto-style crossbar handlebars with deflectors
Headlight grille
Cosmetic frame pucks
Pre-Wired for Accessory Heated Grips

Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, Inc., produces sport motorcycles, motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. To learn more about Buell motorcycles, visit your local Buell dealer today and experience the pure streetfighter attitude, style and performance only found on board a Buell. Call 1-800-490-9635 for the Buell dealer nearest you. Or pull into www.buell.com.

Surprise! Millionaires can still afford Lambos, profits rise

It seems that well-to-do individuals who grew up staring at Countach posters on their bedroom walls are still finding a way to fulfill their childhood fantasies. Both sales and profits are up at Lamborghini, with most of the increases coming from emerging markets, including the Middle East, China and Hong Kong. Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann believes that the key to its recent sales successes is its policy of producing fewer vehicles than it believes it can sell, thereby keeping demand high. Winkelmann also noted that costs go down as production goes up, a further boon to increased profitability.

With Lambo's latest Gallardo LP560-4 about to hit its 114 dealerships, the second half of the year is already shaping up quite nicely. Ridiculously expensive options with high profit margins like $19,000 carbon-ceramic brakes are sure to help the bottom line too.

Ford Mustang AV8R

Ford will unveil this Sunday one-of-a-kind AirVenture Mustang, the Mustang AV8R, a model named after the famous P-51 Mustang fighter, which played a key role in World War II as a bomber escort.

Special features on the 2009 Mustang GT include a glass roof, which is a new option on Mustangs this year; special front and rear fascias; integrated spoiler; and Shelby GT500 wheels. Ford Racing’s contributions include a handling pack (dampers, lowering springs, anti-roll bar kit and strut tower brace), supercharger and tuned exhaust that will generate 400 horsepower from the aluminum block 4.6-liter, 24-valve V-8 engine.

The Mustang AV8R is painted in Satin Silver matte paint with Black Gloss accents. "The interior features distressed "bomber jacket" leather inserts and trim panels along with a "Bullitt" aluminum instrument panel appliqué and shift knob." It also has an appliqué autograph area for the aviation legends and notable enthusiasts scheduled to be in attendance, who include Edsel B. Ford II, Chuck Yeager, Jack Roush, Harrison Ford, John Travolta, Morgan Freeman and Jim Lovell.

Brand Spankin’ New Images: 2008 Ford Kuga

In an attempt to piss you off and make you jealous this lovely Friday afternoon, we are bringing you brand spankin’ new images of the Ford Kuga. Why would you be pissed off? Well, there is no word yet whether the Ford Kuga will ever make its way to the stateside. You may express your anger in the comments section below and let Ford know that you’ll take this over the Ford Escape any day.

Refresher: Power comes from a 2.0 liter Duratorq TDCi which produces 136 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated with a six-speed manual transmission. The FWD system allows for a fuel-economy of 37mpg while the AWD allows 36mpg.

New York Auto Show: Art school students wrap-up the Chevy HHR

In an effort to drum up enthusiasm for Chevy's new HRR panel wagon, The General decided to enlist the help of some art students and the results hit on both the sick and sweet sides of the spectrum.

The "Skull from Hell" version (seriously, check the red headlamps) of the HHR was developed by Jim McCammon, hailing from Detroit's College for Creative Studies, and was picked by a number of suits, including Bob Lutz, as the winner of the design contest. The idea, we're assuming, is to appeal to that much coveted 18-25 year-old Death Metal demographic that's moving out of their parent's basement and heading out on tour.

The other skinned wagon took a slightly more practical approach as a flower shop delivery van. Regardless, both vehicles can come equipped in either LS or LT trims, with a 149 HP 2.2-liter or a 175 HP 2.4-liter four. No matter the mill, GM boasts that you'll still get 30 MPG on the highway -- sans amps and flowerpots, mind you.

We've put together a gallery of both vehicles below, and if you really want us to, we'll grab a few live shots on Thursday.

Peugeot 308 CC

Look at the first official images of the new Peugeot 308 CC. The 308 CC that will make its debut at the Paris Auto Show in October. Due to hit European dealerships by the end of the year or early 2009, the 2+2 seater 308 CC is equipped with a retractable hardtop.

Expected the open-top Peugeot 308 CC to be offered with three gasoline engines, a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter with 120Hp and 1.6-liter Turbo with 150 and 175Hp, and at least two diesel units, a 110HP 1.6-liter and 136 HP 2.0-liter.

Toyota tops '07 CAFE numbers, will increase Prius capacity

The numbers for last year's combined fleet fuel efficiency for all automakers in the United States has been tallied. The winner? Um, Lotus. But, they don't really count. Too small. For manufacturers that actually offer a full line of automobiles, Toyota with 29.69 mpg just barely edged out the likes of Honda, which posted 29.49, and Hyundai with 29.37. All those Prius hybrid sales surely helped push Toyota to the top this year. Not surprisingly, the Detroit 3 didn't even come close with 25.16 from GM and 25.15 from Ford. DaimlerChrysler propped up the rear with a dismal 23.97 average figure.

Toyota has no plans to give up the mileage crown. In fact, the Japanese giant will increase capacity of its upcoming third-gen Prius sedan by an astonishing 70-percent at the Tsutsumi factory in Japan, allowing for the production of 480,000 hybrid sedans per year. For 2010, Toyota plans to bring its Mississippi plant online, which will further serve to increase capacity. We have a feeling that it'll have little trouble selling every one it manufacturers.

Top Gear USA: Howie Mandel, Melanie B to flog Kia Rio

What would Top Gear be without a star in a reasonably priced car? Well... better, for one thing. But that hasn't stopped NBC from porting over the red-headed step-child of Top Gear segments to the imported version of the show. According to Jalopnik, during tomorrow's taping, B-listers C-listers D-listers Howie Mandel and Melanie B (former Spice Girl) will be piloting the U.S.'s own version of a reasonably-priced car – a Kia Rio – around the newly minted Top Gear test track. What can we expect? Nothing good, we thinks. Nor does it bode well that both pseudo-celebs are part of the NBC franchise. Depressed? We thought so. But the taping is tomorrow, so we'll try to remain upbeat until the first reports from inside the studio surface.

Jaguar XK60

Jaguar revealed at the British Motor Show the new XK60 special edition, a model created to celebrate the 60th anniversary of that iconic car. The car will be priced at £60,995 for the Coupe version and £66,995 for the Convertible.

The XK60 is powered by a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated AJ-V8 engine with continuously variable valve timing that delivers 298PS at 6000rpm and 303lb ft (411Nm) at 4100rpm. It makes the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 5,9 seconds (coupe) and 6.0 seconds (convertible). Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

The XK60 customer will benefit from dramatic 20-inch Senta alloy wheels, a sporty alloy gear knob and selector-gate surround, plus distinctive body enhancements: a new front spoiler and rear valance panel, chrome-finished side vents and bright upper and lower front grille meshes, special tailpipe finishers and appliqués on both sides of the car.

Review: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X - Faster, But Not As Furious

The redesigned Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is quicker and more refined than before, but has it gotten too civilized?

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is the rally-inspired version of the company’s Lancer economy car. It packs a strong turbocharged engine in a compact package, making it quite fast. The “Evo,” as it’s called, has grown up recently, and its raw performance has been refined to make it more functional for daily driving.

Freightliner announces new big rig: the Cascadia

It may not look like anything revolutionary to the untrained eye, but to hear DaimlerChrysler tell it, the all-new Freightliner Cascadia is very much a big deal. It's built on a new platform that readily accepts EPA '07-compliant engines and is ready to play home to powerplants built off DCX's Global Heavy Duty Engine Platform, the first of which are set to arrive later this year from Detroit Diesel. It also incorporates a new, common Electric/Electronic Architecture, and many features and systems were designed from the outset to be easily accessible, repairable, and/or replaceable to ensure that the rig's able to maximize its on-road time.

It's lighter than other competitors due in large part to its aluminum cab, and boasts a 3% increase in fuel efficiency over its predecessors thanks to a design that was perfected using Freightliner's wind tunnel, which is the only one designed for vehicles of this class. Driver and passenger are not ignored either. The cab features car-inspired ergonomics, an improved HVAC system, copious sound-deadening measures, larger seats that sit on their own shock absorbers tuned to the trucks suspension settings, improved lighting, and more. You can get additional details via the Cascadia website and DCX's press release, which is pasted after the jump.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X MR coming to U.S. in June

Following the introduction of the $32,990 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X GSR, Mitsubishi will be bringing the more advanced 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR to the U.S. next month.

The Evo X MR is powered by the same 2.0 liter 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC MIVEC engine that produces 295 horsepower and 300 ft-lbs. of torque. However the MR gets the new Twin Clutch-Sequential Sportshift Transmission as standard.

Pricing for the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR starts at $38,290 and is available with the optional Technology Package for $40,840. The Technology Package includes a 30GB hard drive navigation system with music server, 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate Premium Sound System, pre-paid Sirius Satellite Radio capability and FAST Key entry.

BMW 3-Series facelift

Bavarian carmaker share first official photos its facelifted 3-Series.

As you see, changes to the front end include new lights with LED indicators, revised bumpers, less chrome on the grille and a more distinctive creased bonnet. Fresh, larger mirrors grace the doors, while the restyled rear lamp clusters also include LEDs.

Inside, the 3 gains the latest, simplified iDrive cabin control system with a larger LCD monitor, and has sockets for connecting MP3 players to an 80GB hard drive. All engines get BMW’s Efficient Dynamics technology, and a new 245bhp six-cylinder diesel debuts. Coupe and cabrio buyers can select as option the seven-speed dual-clutch box, too. The revised 3-Series arrives in dealerships in September.

Tesla's Siry interviewed at BIMS

There's lots of green-car action taking place at this years British International Motor Show (BIMS) and although we can't be there in person, our vlogger pal Danny is. Today, Danny has a fresh interview with Darryl Siry from Tesla who was at the show to check out the Lightning GT reveal accompany a Roadster while it sits on display for the public to longingly cast their eyes upon. Mr. Siry was forthcoming in answering most of his queries and we were able to glean a few interesting bits of Tesla news.

The most important information was about the state of European Roadster sales. Although he wouldn't give an exact figure, Danny did manage to wrest from the marketing VP that they've sold several dozen, in fact, they are "pretty soon going to close in on a hundred". They expect to sell the entire European allotment of 250 units for 2008 before the end of the year. Another eyebrow raiser was the mention of plans for Euro stores, including one on the outskirts of London, possibly in the direction of Surrey. They go on to discuss other things such as the Model S deployment strategy, batteries and the Roadster drivetrain 1.5. If you're in need of a Tesla fix with a British accent, hit the jump.

London Motor Show Mega Post

The British International Motor Show wrapped up earlier this week and although we weren't able to attend in person, we've assembled a sizeable gallery of live shots from the show floor. Unlike past shows in London, this year's event actually hosted some serious debuts, including the Lotus Evora, Honda OSM concept, Ford Focus RS, IFR Aspid, Renaultsport Megane R26.R, Lightning GT, a trio of Imprezas and the Opel Insignia. Some will make it Stateside, while others we'll adore from afar, but our gallery below is proof that London has come into its own. We're looking forward to next year's festivities and hopefully we can scrounge up enough scratch to make the trip across the pond.

TECHART GTstreet RS

Last week we told you about the new TECHART GTstreet RS, based on the Porsche 911 GT2 (997), the latest masterpiece from the German tuning house powered by a 700 hp engine. Today the tuner revealed officially all the data about its new car. The vehicle features a new body kit consisting in a front apron GT RS with carbon splitter, new side carbon-flics, aero bonnet, headlight shades, mirror shades, new side sills, a carbon roof spoiler, a rear spoiler GT with winglets and carbon gurney and a rear apron GT RS with carbon diffuser and air outlet as well as carbon air wings.

techart gtstreet rs

In order to obtain the astonishing power the tuner added new carbon sports pipes, a high performance intercooler, high-performance header, a new turbocharger, new engine electronics and a sports exhaust system.

Chrysler raises prices by 2 percent on 2008 models

Chrysler has told its dealers that it will raise prices by 2 percent for most of the remaining 2008 models. The price increase, which will start today, will be carried over to the 2009 models. According to executives, the price increase comes from the rise in prices for commodities such as steel.

“The average 2 percent increase brings total model year price increases in line with key competitors,” said Chrysler spokesman Stuart Schorr. “It does not affect vehicles already in dealer inventory. Incentives would not be changed.”

First Drive: 2008 Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder

The 2008 Porsche Boxster RS 60 Spyder made its U.S. debut in April at the 2008 New York Auto Show. We were lucky enough to be invited out by Porsche last week to take the new Boxster RS 60 Spyder, which pays tribute to the 1960 Type 718 RS 60 Spyder, around the Barber Motorsports Park track in Birmingham, Alabama.

Only 1,960 units of the 2008 Boxster RS 60 Spyder will be built; which coincides with the 1960 12-Hours of Sebring won by the 550 Spyder Type 718 RS 60. However, only 800 of those will make it over to the U.S. with prices starting at $64,900. Now you’re probably wondering if the extra $9,200 over the Boxster S (which starts at $55,700) is worth the ‘R’, ‘60′ and the ‘Spyder’ badging on the back.

Porsche Cayenne

The Porsche Cayenne test mule has been caught in testing with light camo. It’s a second generation of the popular SUV, which planned to launch in 2010.

The petrol-electric hybrid is expected to be a V8 due next year, while the oil-burner will most likely be the 3.0-litre V6 unit found in the Audi Q7.

A diesel could give Porsche around 15,000 extra sales a year, as well as answering the critics - it is the most polluting mainstream manufacturer, with an average CO2 output of 275.6g/km across its range.

Porsche wants to rush out the second generation Cayenne before the demand for high performance SUVs completely drops. Its other sibling, the Volkswagen Touareg, is due by the end of 2010, but the Audi Q7 won’t be replaced until around 2013.