BMW Announces Lightweight Initiative

BMW Lightweight Brake Concept

BMW held their yearly "Innovation Days" last week and introduced a number of intriguing concepts to reduce weight on their vehicles. The photo above shows a gigantic brake rotor that actually weighs less than its smaller, conventional counterpart because the increase in diameter and surface area means that it can be made thinner and lighter without sacrificing any capability to stop the vehicle or wear more quickly. Of course, you have to have a honking big wheel to fit over it.

Lightweight means quicker performance, better handling, better fuel economy, etc. It's a very good thing but hard to achieve while maintaining safety & reliability. BMW is on the right track. The showcase new designs for body panels, wheels, seats, and more.

See BMWBlog.com for the complete press release and lots of photos.

Lamborghini Estoque Wagon Concept

Lamborghini Estoque Wagon concept by DieselStation

Someone who goes by the tag "Diesel Station" (see http://www.dieselstation.com/) has photoshopped the Lamborghini Estoque concept to create a wagon. We like! This would be the real successor to the 1968-1978 Lamborghini Espada that I have lusted after for 40 years. Lamborghini, build it!

Quirky, beautiful & brilliant Lamborghini Espada

Lamborghini Espada made from 1968 to 1978

Lamborghini Espada--the supercar that can haul groceries. . . very quickly

BMW i8 Hybrid Prototype Spyshots

Videos of disguised BMW Vision Hybrid Prototype actually running in snow. The Vision ED (Efficient Dynamics) concept, premiered at the Frankfurt Auto Show and has been seen at a number of venues and mainstream press for over a year. These spy shots seem to confirm that it is something more than a concept. BMW recently announced plans for a new sub-brand to be called BMW i-Brand. I-Brand vehicles will be electric and plug-in hybrids. The Vision prototype is said to be the first actual product and flagship for the new brand. Autoblog and Automobile Magazine and BMWBlog.com all say it is the BMW i8. BMW i vehicles are scheduled to be on sale in 2013.

Alfa Romeo 4C Coming to America

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Motor Trend reported today that the Alfa Romeo 4C that debuted at the Geneva International Motor Show last week will be coming the the USA. 

As we reported a couple of weeks ago, we'd also like the 159, a nice competitor to the BMW 3-Series. along with some of Alfa's other goodies. . . please?!

Alfa Romeo 149 & Classic Giulia

Alfa Romeo Classic Giulia & 2011 Alfa 149