California Highway Patrol switching to SUVs

When you think of a highway patrol car, you instantly think Ford Crown Victoria. And usually in California Highway Patrol black n' white trim. Since the Crown Vic went out of production last year, you see a few older models out on the roads that have been slowly replaced by the Dodge Charger, Ford Taurus, or the Chevrolet Caprice (I know we haven't seen one yet either). But Ford also produces the new Explorer in a police package, and that's what the California Highway Patrol is leaning towards to replace their fleet and to keep it in the Ford family. The CHP maintains a fleet of 4,000 vehciles (give or take a few) and each year, they replace 1/3rd of that fleet with new vehicles.

Due to the ammount of gear that a trooper has to car with him or her on any given day is always increasing. And now with gear mandated by the Department of Homeland Security, the smaller patrol cars offered by the big three just won't cut it.

Of course they'll still be black and white....


Source: California Highway Patrol.

Another Pittsburgh dealer closes its doors

After 41 years serving the North Hills. Demors Linclon ceased operations as of Tuesday. Demors began business as a Lincoln Mercury dealer in 1970. However due to the loss of the Mercury brand and struggles that still exist in the auto industry caused Demors to be one of many long time dealers in the area to close their doors. McKnight Road is no stranger to automotive dealerships. Currently North Hills Toyota, Baierl Kia, and Mick's Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep all make residence on McKnight. McCrackin Ford also made its home on McKnight before closing in 2007. Their building still sits empty on one of the busiest sections of McKnight, sitting across the street from Ross Park Mall. That area seems to be struggling  for new business and a makeover as many storefronts in the Ross Towne Center is also void of many stores after Circuit City, Damon's and Roomful Express have all vacated within recent years.

But back to Demors. What does this now mean for Lincoln and Mercury vehicle owners in the North Hills? Of course any Ford dealer can service the cars with no problems. So that gives owners the option of servicing at Shults Ford in Wexford. Unfortunately, this leaves the sales gap open at a very crucial time for Ford Motor Company as it works with the Lincoln brand in redeveloping its image. Just as General Motors is doing so with Cadillac. Will we see another Lincoln dealer open in the North Hills? I certainly hope so. With the brand image that Ford is moving forward with, with Lincoln being a stand alone brand. I can see an entirely new dealership built to reflect the Lincoln image. But it would have to be north of Ross Township to better compete with other dealers. Both Cadillac and Lincoln are working to take on a more youthful buyer segment and thus the DeVille and Town Car nameplates respectively have been dropped by each brand. Hopes are to bring entirely new flagship vehicles to each brand, but both are difficult vehicles to replace. Just as dealerships are. We are sad to see Demors close, but it unfortunately is one of the necessary evils that we have to face in the auto industry.

Rumble down under

Welcome to Murray Country from Bandit Films on Vimeo.

Very cool video from our friends in Australia featuring an American car collector and his 1970 Plymouth Superbird. 

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 - New Design More Horsepower

Built upon the all-new design from 2011, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 combines more world class accommodations with race inspired technology and gadgets. The Hemi is brought back to life with more hp and torque redefining another age of muscle cars.

Engine and Transmission
5 Speed Automatic
6.4l Hemi V-8
Power hp: 465 hp
Torque lb-ft: 465 lb-ft

Performance
0-60 mph: estimated at 4 Seconds

NADA responds to Chrysler's dealer announcement

As the U.S. dealer network continues to take in the loss of 789 Chrysler, Dodge & Jeep dealerships. The National Automobile Dealers Association weighs in on the truth of the matter.

Source: NADA

Today’s announcement by Chrysler that it is rejecting 789 of its Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep dealers marks a very sad day in retail automotive history.

These dealers and their more than 40,000 employees have done nothing but proudly represent the Chrysler brand through good times and bad, and today find themselves left behind as the company reorganizes itself in bankruptcy court.

While NADA understands the realities of the current marketplace, we also know that dealers didn’t cause the situation that Chrysler finds itself in today. Furthermore, we believe that these draconian dealer cuts are not only misguided but counterproductive. Fewer dealers mean less revenue for the automakers. Dealers are the manufacturer’s customer; they buy the cars and parts and even the signs in front of their dealerships.

NADA fully expects Chrysler to honor all its obligations to the affected dealers who have been nothing but good partners over the years.

NADA will continue to work aggressively on all fronts with regard to assisting these dealers during these historically challenging times.

Euro Tunes The Dodge Challenger by Eibach

The Dodge Challenger made its way to Europe and the Essen Motorshow thanks to suspension manufacturer, Eibach which readied a mildly tuned version of the American muscle car. The SRT8 was imported for Eibach by USCars24.de and converted according to the applicable German lighting and licensing regulations. While retaining the SRT8's stock 6.1-liter Hemi V8 that produces 425HP, Eibach equipped the Challenger with the Coil-Over Suspension System Multi-Pro-R2 from its US product portfolio as well as a set of Botticelli III 22-inch alloy wheels from O.Z. wrapped around in Toyo Proxes T1R tires for improved handling.
The The Eibach Challenger is also equipped with a multimedia unit from Alpine Electronics, which has been installed by the specialists of XTON from Dortmund, Germany.

Dodge TriCharger: Two Door Charger

Force Performance answered the question no one asked: what would a two-door Dodge Charger look like? Despite this, the TriCharger does offer several useful modifications.

The engine was replaced with a new HEMI V8 engine featuring FAST XFI Engine Management Twin GT40 turbochargers and a Magna Charger Supercharger Custom EFI Blower Intake. Due to these components the car was named TriCharger. For better stability the car features a lowered suspension while in order to stop in time a new set of Brembo brakes were added. Although there is no official word about production or pricing, it may just be easier to put the engine in an established (similar-looking) Dodge product, like maybe the CHALLENGER.

Dodge EV: All-Electric 268HP Coupe

At its World Headquarters in Auburn Hills today, Chrysler LLC revealed three all-electric prototype vehicles, the Dodge EV, Jeep EV and Chrysler EV, promising to have one of them available in the North American markets as soon as 2010 followed shortly after by Europe. Speaking at the presentation, Chrysler LLC’s CEO Bob Nardelli said: “The introduction of the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge electric vehicles provide a glimpse of the very near future, and demonstrates that we are serious and well along in the development of bringing EVs to market.”

Mopar-Prepped Dodge Ram R/T Concept Heads to SEMA

Even though truck sales in the U.S. are dropping like flies, there will always be a market for vehicles like the new Dodge Ram. And when there’s a market, there’s an aftermarket. Chrysler LLC’s Mopar division is now readying a customized version of the range-topping Ram R/T for the world’s largest aftermarket trade show, the 2008 SEMA which will take place in Las Vegas this November. The 2009 Ram R/T is powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 pushing out 390 HP and according to Dodge, the run from nought to 60mph (96 km/h) take a mere 5.6 seconds.

According to the folks at ‘TheCarConnection, the SEMA show Ram R/T will get a full bodykit treatment that includes a dual snorkel aluminum hood with carbon fiber accent strips (just like the Challenger) and a hard tonneau complete with an integrated spoiler. The Ram R/T’s ‘bad boy’ looks are complemented by a set of 22-incg machine forged alloy wheels wrapped in 285/45R22 front and 305/40R22 rear tires and the lowered suspension. Inside the souped-up Ram R/T will feature a sportier trim and special leather sport seats.

H&R Dodge Challenger: Suspension for a thoroughbred

The new Dodge Challenger has the looks and power to capture the enthusiasm of any seasoned sports-car driver. To drive this impression home, H&R now introduces the matching suspension components. The result does not only look good; you will also feel the difference in handling of the V8. The 35 mm spring kit makes a noticeable improvement to the Challenger's behaviour in curves - virtually without any loss in ride quality. The 50 mm version may be more interesting for those who prefer a more extravagant look.

H&R's adjustable suspension can be set to increase steering accuracy while minimising pitching and rolling, giving the car a noticeable improvement in road performance; the adjustment options allow you to set the wheel loads according to the circumstances.

Naturally, all of the suspension components developed for the Dodge Challenger can be combined with optional H&R sport stabilizers/ anti roll bars. Ultra-sturdy aluminium alloy H&R TRAK+ spacers in 50 and 60 mm widening per axle also add character on either standard or custom tyres, in putting an end to the unsightly visual appearance left by the gap between the edge of the tyre and wheel arch.

The whole H&R programme is available for more than 1,200 vehicle types and is available at good specialist dealers; apart from the high quality we have come to know from the brand that H&R products always come with general permission for road use (ABE) or a TÜV part certificate for German residents. In Germany the Dodge Challenger suspension components are only available at a special distribution partner.

The 2009 Dodge Hornet - Concept

This tiny yet tall new car will be Dodge's attempt at breaking into the subcompact segment. Currently, Dodge is trying to find a partner with whom to set up a joint venture. Dodge wants to pitch this car in Europe and Asia, so it is unclear whether it will come Staeside. The concept packs a 1.6L super-charged 4-cylinder with 170 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque.

2008 GeigerCars: Dodge Viper

The true elemental force of the New World, the very essence of power, the snake with the sharpest bite, are just some of the headlines attempting to sum up the unmatchable strength of the Dodge Viper. The crew at Karl Geiger’s Munich headquarters for US Car Imports has opened a new chapter in the history of Dodge Viper. The 2008 Version of this impressive seller has been newly granted the TÜV seal of approval. This snake has all the attributes needed to leave all others behind in the dust.

Read the rest of the article here ---> Tuning News

V10? A Good Drifter?

Dodge Viper is a V10 powered sports car developed by Chrysler. Samuel Hubinette who won the Formula Drift Championship in 2004 and 2006 drifting in a Dodge Viper and the Viper has won several FIA GT Championships and two 24 Hours of Le Mans wins.

I always thought anything higher than a V8 was not good at drifting, well Dodge has proved me wrong.

Source: Drift Japan

2008 Dodge Charger SRT-8

Another muscle car, that is based on an old model. Although the new Charger looks nothing like it's ancestors. The power sure does. Dodge's SRT-8 hemi engine is used in 5 of their cars. The Challenger, 300c, Jeep Cherokee, and the Charger itself. The Charger is all go, but no handles, just another muscle car. The styling is good, it has a mean look to it, with oversized rims.
Engine
Power bhp: 425
Torque lb-ft: 420
Red Line at RPM: 6400
Type: V8

Performance
Accelaration 0-60 mph: 5 Seconds

My Rating ***/*****

Base Price: 2008 Dodge Charger SRT8 - $35,920

2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10

All American Muscle that always competes with the Chevrolet Corvette. I like the design it is nice and slick, with a mean front look. Engineered by McLaren Performance technologies, the new Viper now has better breathing ability which gives it better engine performance. The ride and handling of the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is defined by a race-bred, fully independent, four-wheel suspension featuring lightweight, high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, damped by lightweight coil-over shock absorbers.

Engine
Power bhp: 600
Red Line at RPM: 6250
Torque: 560
Type: V10

Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds
Top Speed: 210 mph

Base Price: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 - $83,895

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8

Thirty some years have passed, since the last time we have seen this car. Dodge's V8 hemi powered engine produces 425 horsepower and 420 torque. With a price for the SRT-8 starting at about $37,995. There is a big line towards purchasing this vehicle, but will hit your nearby dealers in July 2008.

Engine
Type:	V8
Displacement cu in (cc):	370 (6059)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM:	425(318) / 6000
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM:	420(569) / 4800
Redline at RPM: 6400 Performance Acceleration 0-60 mph s: 4.5 Top Speed mph (km/h): 174 (280)

Base Price: 2006 Dodge Challenger Concept -$37,995

Detroit 2008: Dodge Rampede the 2009 Ram Intro

We reported several weeks about Chrysler's plans for the Ram introduction. It involved the herding of a stampede of cattle in front of Cobo Hall using the redesigned 2009 Dodge Ram. Chrysler and the City of Detroit kept very quiet about what was going to happen. But it happened. And only Chrysler could pull it off. 115 long horn cattle along with cowboys and Sheriff Jim Press, Marshal Bob Nardelli, and Bandit Tom LaSorda made sure everything was in order.

For the first time, Chrysler execs announced that the Ram will be offered with a Hybrid option that will be "available soon" in 2010. Three new engines will be available. A new 380hp 5.7 liter V8, 310hp 4.7 liter V8 and lastly a 215hp 3.7liter V6. A six speed manual and 4 and 5 speed automatic transmissions will be available. Along with revised gear ratios of 3.21, 3.55, 3.92 or 4.10. This allows for a Ram that can go from 0-60 in 7 seconds. When properly optioned. Another first will be a light duty diesel engine due to arrive sometime in 2009 or shortly after.

An entirely new multi link coil spring rear suspension is utilized rather than the typical leaf springs. Now while this may concern those of you who do a lot of towing. Don't worry, towing capacity is not affected by the change. 1,840 pounds for payload and a whopping 9,100 pounds for towing.

There is storage a plenty in the 09 Ram's bed. The It now features an available RamBox cargo management system that places storage bins within the bed rails that are weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable. Ala the Chevy Avalanche, though much larger. Ram Crew 1500 models can also be had with a pair of "store in the floor" bins that can hold up to ten cans of pop, beer or what have you. This is similar to Sto n' Go from the Caravan.

The Ram's new interior makes it easy to forget that you're driving a truck. everything is laid out right at your fingertips and very easy to use. The exterior styling is very classy for a truck. It's nice to see some sharper corners for a change rather than all the rounded bulbous looks we're seeing on many trucks.

The 2009 Dodge Ram will hit show rooms this fall.

Source: Dodge

PRESS RELEASE:

Dodge Unleashes Game-changer Into Truck Market

All-new 2009 Dodge Ram Breaks From the Herd

All-new, bold, powerful, "get-out-of-the-way" Dodge Ram design

New, aggressive "grille-forward" design

First-in-segment chrome-tipped dual exhaust styled dramatically into the rear bumper

Best-in-class aerodynamics – an estimated .422 Cd

Dodge Ram's first-ever crew cab, giving Dodge an entry into the largest and fastest-growing part of the market. Crew cab accounts for nearly 50 percent of market

New 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 provides more horsepower (380 hp) and torque (404 lb.-ft.), with increased fuel economy (an estimated 4 percent)

Best-in-class performance: 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds

New interiors with premium seating, soft-touch materials, redesigned controls, floor console with shifter, and even more storage options

More than 35 new or improved features

Industry-first RamBox cargo management system (crew cab) includes versatile, weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage bins built into bed rails (a total of 8.6 cubic feet of space); pickup bed divider/2-foot bed extender; and cargo rail system with four sliding, adjustable cleats
RamBox bins hold up to 10 cases of 12-ounce beverages, or other gear for work or leisure

First-in-segment "store in the floor" storage bins with removable liners, big enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice

First-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats

Heated rear seats also available

Heated steering wheel a first for any Dodge vehicle

First-in-segment coil-spring, multilink rear suspension fitted to a solid rear axle provides ride and handling capabilities unexpected in a pickup truck

First-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV™

First-in-segment surround-sound audio system

More than 30 safety features, including standard four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System and Electronic Stability Program with Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control

All-new 2009 Dodge Ram to arrive this fall

Light-duty diesel to arrive after 2009; two-mode hybrid powertrain to be offered in 2010 model year

Dodge has been building trucks since1917. Throughout its storied history, Dodge introduced a number of innovative trucks – the original "Suburban," aerodynamic Airflow-model trucks and the ultra-capable Power Wagon. But it was in 1994 that Dodge introduced a revolutionary Ram in the light-duty pickup market, with its "big rig" styling and iconic crosshair grille.

"We put a truck on the market that tripled our market share," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Jeep®/Truck Design Studio, Chrysler LLC. "Our design was polarizing – people loved it or hated it. But the people who loved it, bought it. They still do, because Dodge Ram continues to stand out from the herd of 'me-too' trucks."

For the redesign of its all-new, next-generation Ram, Dodge pulled out all the stops.

"Our mandate was to make a quantum leap and add even more voltage to Ram," said Scott Kunselman, Vice President – Body-on-Frame Product Team. "Our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is a game-changer in terms of capability, convenience, craftsmanship and safety."

Capability

In addition to the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI which produces 380 hp (283 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N·m) of torque, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers a 4.7-liter V-8 providing 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N·m) of torque, and a 3.7-liter V-6 generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N·m) of torque; a six-speed manual transmission and four- and five-speed automatic transmissions; part-time and on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer cases; and 3.21, 3.55, 3.92 and 4.10 axle ratios.

Equipped with the new HEMI, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram R/T regular-cab 4x2 model with a short bed and 4:10 gears blasts to best-in-class performance of 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is offered in regular cab, Quad Cab® and crew cab, with three box lengths: 8-foot (regular cab), 6-foot-4-inches (regular cab and Quad Cab), and a new-for-2009 box length of 5-foot-7-inches (crew cab). Five trim levels are available, each with a unique appearance: ST, SLT, TRX, Sport, and the top-of-the-line Laramie.

An improved frame design incorporating high-strength steel supports an all-new, first-in-segment, multi-link coil spring rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics without sacrificing payload (up to an estimated 1,840 pounds) and towing capability (up to an estimated 9,100 pounds).

Convenience

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 features an available first-in-segment RamBox cargo management system that provides weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage compartments integrated into both fender sides for effortless access and convenience. Each box holds up to 4.3 cubic feet of whatever – such as five cases (120 cans) of 12-ounce beverages.

The RamBox system includes a bed divider/2-foot bed extender for oversize loads and a rail system with sliding, adjustable cleats for infinitely adjustable tie-down capability. The 2009 Dodge Ram's tailgate features a standard assist feature that reduces the effort needed to raise and close the tailgate.

Another new segment-first innovation for the 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 is a pair of "store in the floor" bins with removable liners that offer even more versatile storage – large enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice.

There are many other convenient storage locations throughout the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram including a large upper glove box, map pockets in door panels and a configurable center console. All in all, there are nearly twice as many storage locations in the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram than were in the previous model.

Technically sophisticated, yet simple-to-navigate electronic and infotainment choices include MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with 30-gigabyte hard drive, navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system available in the Quad Cab and crew cab. Also available is first-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV™ and segment-first surround-sound audio.

Other premium amenities include first-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats, available heated rear seats, first-for-Dodge heated steering wheel, one-touch up/down driver and passenger windows, automatic-on headlamps and dual-zone automatic temperature control – a first for Dodge Ram.

Craftsmanship

In addition to the exterior, the all-new interior of the 2009 Dodge Ram stands out with a renewed emphasis on craftsmanship expressed in premium interior appointments including six-ring instrumentation, redesigned controls, chrome accents, premium seating with improved bolsters and two-tone upholstery. An automatic-transmission floor shifter, incorporated into a configurable center console, is available for the first time in a Dodge Ram. All 2009 Dodge Ram interiors are significantly upgraded with "soft-touch" materials that feature industry-first two-tone technology and premium fit and finish. Full-width contrasting stitching is offered on soft-touch instrument panels for Sport and Laramie models.

On the exterior, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram features a redesigned aluminum hood with a large power bulge and a forward-canted grille, imparting a "head down, ready to charge" attitude, while front and rear bumpers wrap around each body side. The rear bumper on HEMI-equipped models is radiused over chromed dual exhaust tips – a first in light-duty pickups. Attractive 20-inch wheels are available in three styles. Sills are pulled down to cover frame rails for a premium appearance. Badges are three-dimensional, rather than decals, and are designed to stand out. The sculpted Ram's-head badge on the tailgate is 250 percent larger than the previous badge.

Safety

On the safety and security front, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers more than 30 active and passive safety features, including standard front and rear side-curtain air bags with Enhanced Accident Response System, knee bolsters, seat-belt pre-tensioners, Anti-lock Brake System, BeltAlert® System, and Electronic Stability Control; and available adjustable pedals, ParkSense® Rear Park Assist and ParkView® Rear Back-up Camera.

Manufacturing

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram will be built in two locations: Quad Cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the Warren (Mich.) Assembly Plant, and regular cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the St. Louis North Assembly Plan in Fenton, Mo.

Dodge Brand

With a U.S. market share of 6.4 percent, Dodge is Chrysler LLC's best-selling brand and the fifth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2006, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market. In the highly competitive truck market, Dodge has a 15 percent market share. Last year, Dodge introduced the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan with 35 new or improved features including the newest innovation, the Swivel 'n Go™ seating system. Dodge is entering key European volume segments with Nitro, Caliber and Avenger. The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey will debut this year, and will be available outside North America in both left- and right-hand drive in mid-2008. And later this year, Dodge will introduce its modern muscle car, the all-new Dodge Challenger. For the 2010 model year, Dodge will offer the all-new Dodge Ram with an advanced two-mode hybrid system.

Chrysler announces cutback in truck produttion. You're move GM

Following both General Motors and Ford, now Chrysler is going to shut down their truck plants for a while. Effective this month, Chrysler LLC is going to temporarily close their Warren, The Jefferson North Assembly and Windsor Assembly plants.

The Warren plant that assembles the Dodge Ram and Dakota pickup trucks will be closed the longest, from December 21 to February 4. Jefferson North, home of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander SUVs, will close for three weeks starting January 4, 2008. That plant will also lose 911 workers, and will lose its second shift as of February 4. The Windsor plant, in Ontario, Canada, which builds the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, will close January 14 for two weeks.

Source: Automotive News.

Say what!?! NHTSA offering prizes to police for writing tickets?

Your tax dollars at work here folks. Since the folks over at the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration apparently have nothing more important to do. They have announced their new National Law Enforcement Challenge Award. What exactly does this mean? Well the NHTSA is looking at police agency ticket counts and judging them by it.

To the point where they are taking points away if a department does not have a "no warning" policy. Bonus points can also be awarded to those creative departments that make their officers extra stealthy. This means undercover as say a tourist, Santa Claus, road workers, or my favorite a cruiser parked in the median of the highway with a dummy in seat.

Since the money to support this program is being diverted from gasoline tax revenue. What exactly is the five-O receiving? Well topping out the list of prizes are specially customized Dodge Charge and Magnum police cruisers. "Hot Pursuit" models packing Hemi V8s, cold air intakes and Borla exhaust systems.

Source: TheNewspaper.com

2008 Dodge Challenger Sneek Peek Pictures

We've posted a lot about the 2008 Dodge Challenger in the last few days, so there's not much more to go in to. So here are some new sneek peek picture fresh out of Auburn Hills. The biggest changes from the prototype are the wheels, and the lack of a cross hair grille. There is also the addition of new exhaust tips, external fuel filler, slotted disc brakes and a classic Challenger T/A style rear spoiler. Soon we should see full car shots. We can't wait!

Source: Dodge.