Thu, 01/23/2014 - 13:03

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

maryland
The Maryland House Environmental Matters Committee is considering Legislation to require the issuance of only a single license plate for historic vehicles and street rods.

Legislation to require the issuance of only a single license plate for historic vehicles and street rods will be considered by the Maryland House Environmental Matters Committee, Tuesday, January 28, 2014. Currently, only motorcycles, tractors and trailers can operate with a single plate.

Under Maryland law, a historic vehicle includes a passenger vehicle, motorcycle or truck that is at least 20 years old and has not been substantially altered from the manufacturer's original design. A street rod is a motor vehicle that is 25 years old or older and has been substantially altered from the manufacturer's original design.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 13:03

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

maryland
The Maryland House Environmental Matters Committee is considering Legislation to require the issuance of only a single license plate for historic vehicles and street rods.

Legislation to require the issuance of only a single license plate for historic vehicles and street rods will be considered by the Maryland House Environmental Matters Committee, Tuesday, January 28, 2014. Currently, only motorcycles, tractors and trailers can operate with a single plate.

Under Maryland law, a historic vehicle includes a passenger vehicle, motorcycle or truck that is at least 20 years old and has not been substantially altered from the manufacturer's original design. A street rod is a motor vehicle that is 25 years old or older and has been substantially altered from the manufacturer's original design.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 13:03

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

maryland
The Maryland House Environmental Matters Committee is considering Legislation to require the issuance of only a single license plate for historic vehicles and street rods.

Legislation to require the issuance of only a single license plate for historic vehicles and street rods will be considered by the Maryland House Environmental Matters Committee, Tuesday, January 28, 2014. Currently, only motorcycles, tractors and trailers can operate with a single plate.

Under Maryland law, a historic vehicle includes a passenger vehicle, motorcycle or truck that is at least 20 years old and has not been substantially altered from the manufacturer's original design. A street rod is a motor vehicle that is 25 years old or older and has been substantially altered from the manufacturer's original design.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 12:58

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

wash emissions
Washington state introduced legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing.

Legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing was introduced in Washington state. The bill will be considered by the House Environment Committee. The bill defines collectible vehicles as a vehicle of unique or rare design, of limited production and an object of curiosity that is maintained primarily for use in car club activities, exhibitions, parades or other functions of public interest or for a private collection, and is used only infrequently for other purposes.

The measure also requires that the vehicle have collectible vehicle or classic automobile insurance coverage that restricts the collectible vehicle mileage or use, or both, and requires the owner to have another vehicle for personal use.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 12:58

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

wash emissions
Washington state introduced legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing.

Legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing was introduced in Washington state. The bill will be considered by the House Environment Committee. The bill defines collectible vehicles as a vehicle of unique or rare design, of limited production and an object of curiosity that is maintained primarily for use in car club activities, exhibitions, parades or other functions of public interest or for a private collection, and is used only infrequently for other purposes.

The measure also requires that the vehicle have collectible vehicle or classic automobile insurance coverage that restricts the collectible vehicle mileage or use, or both, and requires the owner to have another vehicle for personal use.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 12:58

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

wash emissions
Washington state introduced legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing.

Legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing was introduced in Washington state. The bill will be considered by the House Environment Committee. The bill defines collectible vehicles as a vehicle of unique or rare design, of limited production and an object of curiosity that is maintained primarily for use in car club activities, exhibitions, parades or other functions of public interest or for a private collection, and is used only infrequently for other purposes.

The measure also requires that the vehicle have collectible vehicle or classic automobile insurance coverage that restricts the collectible vehicle mileage or use, or both, and requires the owner to have another vehicle for personal use.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 12:58

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

wash emissions
Washington state introduced legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing.

Legislation to exempt collectible vehicles of any age from emissions testing was introduced in Washington state. The bill will be considered by the House Environment Committee. The bill defines collectible vehicles as a vehicle of unique or rare design, of limited production and an object of curiosity that is maintained primarily for use in car club activities, exhibitions, parades or other functions of public interest or for a private collection, and is used only infrequently for other purposes.

The measure also requires that the vehicle have collectible vehicle or classic automobile insurance coverage that restricts the collectible vehicle mileage or use, or both, and requires the owner to have another vehicle for personal use.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 12:35

By SEMA Editors

  sync
This June, SEMA members are invited to participate in Ford's Developer Conference, which will focus on bringing innovative mobile apps into the car through Ford SYNC AppLink.
  

Ford Motor Co. is extending its in-vehicle connectivity leadership by hosting an industry-first Developer Conference this June focused on bringing innovative mobile apps into the car through Ford SYNC AppLink. The Ford Developer Conference will be held in conjunction with the annual Further with Ford trend conference that takes place in Dearborn, Michigan.

“More than ever, consumers are getting organized, entertained and informed through their Internet-connected smartphones and tablets,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president, global marketing, sales and service. “Drivers expect to be able to take advantage of that capability in the car, and Ford SYNC AppLink is the industry-leading platform for accessing apps while keeping eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.”

Ford SYNC AppLink is already on the road in more than 1.5 million vehicles in North America, and will launch globally in Europe and Asia later this year. Last week, Ford announced 3.4 million more SYNC-equipped vehicles currently on the road will qualify for a downloadable upgrade to add AppLink capability later this year, making it one of the industry’s leading automotive app platforms due to its widespread availability and global growth potential.

At the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Ford announced public availability of the application programming interfaces (APIs) for SYNC AppLink, which has enabled any developer to integrate an app with Ford vehicles. Shortly afterward, Ford contributed the SYNC AppLink code to the open-source GENIVI SmartDeviceLink project, enabling the platform to become an industry standard that can be used freely by any manufacturer or supplier.

“Ford is committed to helping developers grow the in-vehicle mobile app ecosystem,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, global product development. “Driving toward an industry standard and taking steps that give developers direct access to the tools and technical experts to be successful are just the latest examples of our commitment to lead in development of the truly connected car.”

App developers will be able to attend sessions led by Ford Developer Program leaders, current AppLink partners and guest speakers to gain valuable insight into such topics, such as:

  • Development and validation of AppLink apps.
  • Best uses for AppLink application programming interfaces.
  • Accessing vehicle data to create compelling new app features.
  • Global AppLink opportunities.
  • Contests and hacking challenges.

Ford AppLink engineers and business development staff will be on hand throughout the conference collecting feedback on the system, as well as considering potential avenues for development of the platform going forward.

“We see our support as a virtuous circle with an open platform that developers can build on to expand the ecosystem—thus encouraging a common platform and benefiting all drivers,” added Nair.

Prior to the conference, Ford is encouraging the developer community to further innovate through a Developer Tools Giveaway. Ford will award SYNC Technology Development Kits for the app ideas that best exhibit use of the enhanced AppLink functionality and new APIs that were recently released to developers.

New capabilities in the next generation of Ford SYNC AppLink include:

  • The ability to read a variety of real-time vehicle data through the AppLink interface, such as speed, acceleration, odometer and location. These data can be used by connected apps to further personalize the driving experience. For example, developers can take advantage of the more accurate GPS signal from the car to provide upgraded location-based apps, while other signals can be used to track and manage vehicle usage, service intervals, fuel efficiency and more.
  • With voice pass-through, developers no longer need to load a set of voice commands into the vehicle audio system for recognition by the SYNC voice engine. Voice pass-through passes the driver’s audio directly to the app for recognition by the same on-device or cloud-powered engine used when not connected to the vehicle. This will give drivers a more consistent user experience, whether using the app in or out of the car.
  • Apps will now launch faster in the car thanks to simplified menus for voice commands. Drivers can now launch apps on their mobile device by pressing the SYNC voice button on the steering wheel and just saying the name of the app without having to say “Mobile applications” first.
  • Developers can now provide background notifications to drivers that are read aloud on the audio system. Alerts for severe weather or traffic conditions can be provided by apps on a connected device even when no apps are active through AppLink, such as when listening to the radio or a CD.

The winning developers will earn a package, including a Technology Development Kit, which can be used to test apps just like they would inside of a car. In addition, developers will receive dedicated support time with Ford SYNC AppLink engineers to help with creation of their app and with consideration for approval and launch. Submissions will be judged on innovation, originality and suitability for in-vehicle use. Developers can visit the Ford developer tools giveaway page to submit ideas by February 7, 2014.

Dates and agendas for the Ford Developer Conference will be posted online. Interested developers can receive early notification about conference information by visiting the developer conference page and submitting contact information.

Thu, 01/23/2014 - 11:39

SEMA News—February 2014

EVENTS
By John Stewart

Los Angeles Auto Show Highlights

The Los Angeles Auto Show is the first international auto show of the season, so it provides an early look at some of the vehicles that could be important to SEMA-member companies in 2014.

 

Lexus showed the sleek LF-LC hybrid sport coupe concept, which underlines the brand’s drive to develop more distinctive styling across the premium line.
Lexus showed the sleek LF-LC hybrid sport coupe concept, which underlines the brand’s drive to develop more distinctive styling across the premium line. This front engine, rear drive hybrid has L-shaped running lights and glass-to-glass roof juncture inspired by modern architecture.

  
The 2013 SEMA Show attendees would have noticed a significant growth in emphasis on custom vehicles, many of which were built for and debuted at the SEMA Show. These vehicles are now continuing to move from show to show and market to market, making the idea of customization more realistic to millions of new-car shoppers.

Shown here are a few of the most interesting cars and trucks. Many of these vehicles and others will be available to SEMA members for measuring sessions in the near future.

Colorado Breathes Life Into Midsize Truck Segment

Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Colorado, a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize pickup. The Colorado goes on sale in fall of 2014 as a ’15 model.

A 2.5L inline-four engine is standard, and a 3.6L V6 is available. Each engine is designed specifically for truck use, and each features direct injection and variable valve timing to make the most of power and efficiency. Each is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Colorado will also offer the segment’s only diesel engine in its second year—a proven Duramax 2.8L I4 turbodiesel that is already offered in global markets. The diesel engine will expand the Colorado’s powertrain lineup to cover the broadest range of needs.

When properly equipped, the Colorado is expected to offer class-leading payload capacity and trailering capacity of more than 6,700 lbs. (3,039 kg). The ’15 Colorado’s configurations will include an extended-cab model with a 6-ft. bed, a crew cab with a 5-ft. bed and a crew cab with a 6-ft. bed. With the tailgate down, the 6-ft. bed allows hauling of 8-ft.-long items.

WT, LT and Z71 trims are available in 2WD or 4WD. The off-road-inspired Z71 is shown on a truck unveiled at the Chevrolet press conference. It also features a gunmetal grille surround—a change from the chrome that is standard on the other models—as well as projector headlamps and unique 17-in. aluminum wheels. Safety features include an available forward collision-alert system and lane-departure warning.

Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec

Hyundai showed the Turbo R-Spec, a sport-tuned version of the Veloster, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Turbo R-Spec is based on the responsive, aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing sport shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. R-Spec production was slated to begin in December 2013, with availability in early February 2014.

The Veloster Turbo R-Spec’s sport suspension and steering settings have been retuned for optimum responsiveness, with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount. On the powertrain side, R-Spec is available with only the six-speed manual transmission, and the short-throw B&M sport shifter was added for a tighter, more direct shift feel.

Adding to the focused driving experience for all ’14 Veloster Turbo R-Spec and Turbo models is Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This active cornering feature, utilizing capabilities from the electronic stability control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, improves dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving.

TVC uses wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering. This active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn, reducing wheel spin for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration. Overall, TVC is intended to provide Veloster Turbo R-Spec drivers with enhanced cornering precision.

Hyundai also showed an ultra-clean hydrogen fuel cell version of the Tucson that is designed to launch in spring 2014. To address the issue of affordability, Hyundai announced a sales program of $2,999 down and payments of $499 a month, with unlimited free hydrogen refueling.

Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Colorado, a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize pickup. The Colorado goes on sale in the fall of 2014 as a ’15 model.
The Colorado will also offer the segment’s only diesel engine in its second year—a proven Duramax 2.8L I4 turbodiesel that is already offered in global markets.Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Colorado, a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize pickup. The Colorado goes on sale in the fall of 2014 as a ’15 model. 

   

The Hyundai Turbo R-Spec will offer a responsive, aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing sport shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. The R-Spec will be available early February 2014.
The Hyundai Turbo R-Spec will offer a responsive, aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing sport shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. The R-Spec will be available early February 2014. 

     

’15 Subaru WRX

Amid much fanfare and bursts of steam, Subaru of America unveiled the ’15 WRX, a more powerful and better-handling version of the brand’s iconic high-performance model. Powered by a new 268hp, 2.0L, direct-injection turbo boxer engine, the ’15 WRX debuts the model’s first six-speed manual transmission and a new, optional performance automatic transmission, the Sport Lineartronic, with two manual modes. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard.

The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car. The WRX will employ a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and allows for improved cornering speeds and handling. The new powertrain also yields higher fuel efficiency than the previous model. At the same time, a roomier interior, upgraded cabin comfort and materials and a wide array of new user technologies were included to give the new WRX a more refined feel.

Nissan GT-R NISMO

Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever, the GT-R NISMO. As the fourth model in the ’15 GT-R lineup, along with the GT-R Premium, Black Edition and Track Edition, the GT-R NISMO features extensive engine, suspension, exterior and interior enhancements. It is scheduled to be available later in 2014, following the January on-sale date of the other ’15 GT-R models. Nissan Divisional Vice President of Sales & Marketing Fred Diaz said that the GT-R NISMO would offer 600 hp and be capable of blistering acceleration.

The new GT-R was joined at the Nissan press conference by the world debut of a custom-built Sentra NISMO Concept and the debut of the production version of the new ’14 Nissan Juke NISMO RS. The press conference also featured a surprise appearance by Usain Bolt, six-time Olympic gold-medal winner and 100-meter world record holder. Bolt, who owns a special gold-painted Nissan GT-R, assisted Diaz in revealing the new GT-R NISMO.

The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car.
The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car. The WRX will employ a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and allows for improved cornering speeds and handling.

   

Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever, the GT-R NISMO.
Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever, the GT-R NISMO. The new GT-R was joined at the Nissan press conference by the world debut of a custom-built Sentra NISMO Concept and the debut of the production version of the new ’14 Nissan Juke NISMO RS.

     

Kia’s Big Step

Marking 20 years in the U.S. market, Kia Motors America took the wraps off its new flagship amid a packed house of media representatives from around the world at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize, rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.

The K900 will be offered with a V6 or V8 engine. The range-topping V8 equipped with the VIP Package will add additional luxury amenities, including reclining outboard rear seats. The K900 Premium V6 will launch with an available Luxury Package as well as a Technology Package. The all-new K900 is expected to go on sale during the first quarter of 2014; pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Viper GTS Limited Edition

The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand announced that it will produce an exclusive, limited-run, Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.

Under the hood is a handcrafted, all-aluminum, 8.4L, mid-front V10 overhead-valve engine. Performance ratings are 640 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque—the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world.

Part of the special-edition package is the new metallic matte exterior color that is being used for the first time by the Chrysler Group to add to the exclusivity of the SRT Viper. A limited production run of 50 Viper GTS models with the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package began January at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.

The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize, rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.
The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize, rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.

   

The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand announced that it will produce an exclusive, limited-run, Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.
The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand announced that it will produce an exclusive, limited-run, Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.

     

1,024hp Galpin Ford GTR1

Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT. Concept car builder Metalcrafters constructed the handcrafted all-aluminum body. Notable components include Pirelli P-Zero tires, six-piston brakes with full carbon rotors and 20-in. forged-aluminum knock-off wheels. A twin-turbocharged 5.4L V8 engine that produces an estimated 1,024 hp and 739 lb.-ft. of torque powers the car. The transmission is a six-speed manual with dual clutches.

The car is said to be capable of 0–60 acceleration in 3.1 sec. and a top speed of 225 mpg. According to Galpin, GTR1 will be extremely limited in production, with a choice of aluminum or carbon-fiber bodies.

BMW X4

The upcoming BMW X4 made the scene at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, shown as a concept in a Long Beach Blue paint job and original 10-spoke wheels.

This second compact Sports Activity Coupe—BMW speak for SUV—will be built at BMW plant in Spartanburg [South Caroline], along with the X3, X5 and X6 models, on the same platform as the X3.

Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT.
Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT.

   

The upcoming BMW X4 made the scene at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, shown as a concept in a Long Beach Blue paint job and original 10-spoke wheels.
The upcoming BMW X4 made the scene at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, shown as a concept in a Long Beach Blue paint job and original 10-spoke wheels.

     
Thu, 01/23/2014 - 11:39

SEMA News—February 2014

EVENTS
By John Stewart

Los Angeles Auto Show Highlights

The Los Angeles Auto Show is the first international auto show of the season, so it provides an early look at some of the vehicles that could be important to SEMA-member companies in 2014.

 

Lexus showed the sleek LF-LC hybrid sport coupe concept, which underlines the brand’s drive to develop more distinctive styling across the premium line.
Lexus showed the sleek LF-LC hybrid sport coupe concept, which underlines the brand’s drive to develop more distinctive styling across the premium line. This front engine, rear drive hybrid has L-shaped running lights and glass-to-glass roof juncture inspired by modern architecture.

  
The 2013 SEMA Show attendees would have noticed a significant growth in emphasis on custom vehicles, many of which were built for and debuted at the SEMA Show. These vehicles are now continuing to move from show to show and market to market, making the idea of customization more realistic to millions of new-car shoppers.

Shown here are a few of the most interesting cars and trucks. Many of these vehicles and others will be available to SEMA members for measuring sessions in the near future.

Colorado Breathes Life Into Midsize Truck Segment

Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Colorado, a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize pickup. The Colorado goes on sale in fall of 2014 as a ’15 model.

A 2.5L inline-four engine is standard, and a 3.6L V6 is available. Each engine is designed specifically for truck use, and each features direct injection and variable valve timing to make the most of power and efficiency. Each is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Colorado will also offer the segment’s only diesel engine in its second year—a proven Duramax 2.8L I4 turbodiesel that is already offered in global markets. The diesel engine will expand the Colorado’s powertrain lineup to cover the broadest range of needs.

When properly equipped, the Colorado is expected to offer class-leading payload capacity and trailering capacity of more than 6,700 lbs. (3,039 kg). The ’15 Colorado’s configurations will include an extended-cab model with a 6-ft. bed, a crew cab with a 5-ft. bed and a crew cab with a 6-ft. bed. With the tailgate down, the 6-ft. bed allows hauling of 8-ft.-long items.

WT, LT and Z71 trims are available in 2WD or 4WD. The off-road-inspired Z71 is shown on a truck unveiled at the Chevrolet press conference. It also features a gunmetal grille surround—a change from the chrome that is standard on the other models—as well as projector headlamps and unique 17-in. aluminum wheels. Safety features include an available forward collision-alert system and lane-departure warning.

Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec

Hyundai showed the Turbo R-Spec, a sport-tuned version of the Veloster, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Turbo R-Spec is based on the responsive, aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing sport shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. R-Spec production was slated to begin in December 2013, with availability in early February 2014.

The Veloster Turbo R-Spec’s sport suspension and steering settings have been retuned for optimum responsiveness, with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount. On the powertrain side, R-Spec is available with only the six-speed manual transmission, and the short-throw B&M sport shifter was added for a tighter, more direct shift feel.

Adding to the focused driving experience for all ’14 Veloster Turbo R-Spec and Turbo models is Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This active cornering feature, utilizing capabilities from the electronic stability control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, improves dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving.

TVC uses wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering. This active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn, reducing wheel spin for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration. Overall, TVC is intended to provide Veloster Turbo R-Spec drivers with enhanced cornering precision.

Hyundai also showed an ultra-clean hydrogen fuel cell version of the Tucson that is designed to launch in spring 2014. To address the issue of affordability, Hyundai announced a sales program of $2,999 down and payments of $499 a month, with unlimited free hydrogen refueling.

Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Colorado, a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize pickup. The Colorado goes on sale in the fall of 2014 as a ’15 model.
The Colorado will also offer the segment’s only diesel engine in its second year—a proven Duramax 2.8L I4 turbodiesel that is already offered in global markets.Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Colorado, a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize pickup. The Colorado goes on sale in the fall of 2014 as a ’15 model. 

   

The Hyundai Turbo R-Spec will offer a responsive, aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing sport shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. The R-Spec will be available early February 2014.
The Hyundai Turbo R-Spec will offer a responsive, aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing sport shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. The R-Spec will be available early February 2014. 

     

’15 Subaru WRX

Amid much fanfare and bursts of steam, Subaru of America unveiled the ’15 WRX, a more powerful and better-handling version of the brand’s iconic high-performance model. Powered by a new 268hp, 2.0L, direct-injection turbo boxer engine, the ’15 WRX debuts the model’s first six-speed manual transmission and a new, optional performance automatic transmission, the Sport Lineartronic, with two manual modes. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard.

The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car. The WRX will employ a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and allows for improved cornering speeds and handling. The new powertrain also yields higher fuel efficiency than the previous model. At the same time, a roomier interior, upgraded cabin comfort and materials and a wide array of new user technologies were included to give the new WRX a more refined feel.

Nissan GT-R NISMO

Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever, the GT-R NISMO. As the fourth model in the ’15 GT-R lineup, along with the GT-R Premium, Black Edition and Track Edition, the GT-R NISMO features extensive engine, suspension, exterior and interior enhancements. It is scheduled to be available later in 2014, following the January on-sale date of the other ’15 GT-R models. Nissan Divisional Vice President of Sales & Marketing Fred Diaz said that the GT-R NISMO would offer 600 hp and be capable of blistering acceleration.

The new GT-R was joined at the Nissan press conference by the world debut of a custom-built Sentra NISMO Concept and the debut of the production version of the new ’14 Nissan Juke NISMO RS. The press conference also featured a surprise appearance by Usain Bolt, six-time Olympic gold-medal winner and 100-meter world record holder. Bolt, who owns a special gold-painted Nissan GT-R, assisted Diaz in revealing the new GT-R NISMO.

The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car.
The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car. The WRX will employ a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and allows for improved cornering speeds and handling.

   

Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever, the GT-R NISMO.
Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever, the GT-R NISMO. The new GT-R was joined at the Nissan press conference by the world debut of a custom-built Sentra NISMO Concept and the debut of the production version of the new ’14 Nissan Juke NISMO RS.

     

Kia’s Big Step

Marking 20 years in the U.S. market, Kia Motors America took the wraps off its new flagship amid a packed house of media representatives from around the world at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize, rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.

The K900 will be offered with a V6 or V8 engine. The range-topping V8 equipped with the VIP Package will add additional luxury amenities, including reclining outboard rear seats. The K900 Premium V6 will launch with an available Luxury Package as well as a Technology Package. The all-new K900 is expected to go on sale during the first quarter of 2014; pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Viper GTS Limited Edition

The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand announced that it will produce an exclusive, limited-run, Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.

Under the hood is a handcrafted, all-aluminum, 8.4L, mid-front V10 overhead-valve engine. Performance ratings are 640 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque—the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world.

Part of the special-edition package is the new metallic matte exterior color that is being used for the first time by the Chrysler Group to add to the exclusivity of the SRT Viper. A limited production run of 50 Viper GTS models with the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package began January at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.

The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize, rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.
The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize, rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.

   

The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand announced that it will produce an exclusive, limited-run, Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.
The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand announced that it will produce an exclusive, limited-run, Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.

     

1,024hp Galpin Ford GTR1

Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT. Concept car builder Metalcrafters constructed the handcrafted all-aluminum body. Notable components include Pirelli P-Zero tires, six-piston brakes with full carbon rotors and 20-in. forged-aluminum knock-off wheels. A twin-turbocharged 5.4L V8 engine that produces an estimated 1,024 hp and 739 lb.-ft. of torque powers the car. The transmission is a six-speed manual with dual clutches.

The car is said to be capable of 0–60 acceleration in 3.1 sec. and a top speed of 225 mpg. According to Galpin, GTR1 will be extremely limited in production, with a choice of aluminum or carbon-fiber bodies.

BMW X4

The upcoming BMW X4 made the scene at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, shown as a concept in a Long Beach Blue paint job and original 10-spoke wheels.

This second compact Sports Activity Coupe—BMW speak for SUV—will be built at BMW plant in Spartanburg [South Caroline], along with the X3, X5 and X6 models, on the same platform as the X3.

Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT.
Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT.

   

The upcoming BMW X4 made the scene at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, shown as a concept in a Long Beach Blue paint job and original 10-spoke wheels.
The upcoming BMW X4 made the scene at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, shown as a concept in a Long Beach Blue paint job and original 10-spoke wheels.