The Skythe gets a voice-activated Shuttle XPC computer that, when connected to a 3G network, provides real-time traffic, news and weather updates. There's also a series of security cameras around the vehicle to give the driver an almost 360-degree camera view of the horrified stares from folks on the street gaping at the purple people-eater driving by.

Most importantly is the engine — under the hood (and above it, really) is a twin Magnuson supercharged 5.0-liter engine custom built by GAS with 1,005 HP. Yes, we'll take one. Even in purple.

Honda also revealed a Civic Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Concept sedan that represents a new approach on performance improvement. With more consumer concern about fuel prices, future customers may want to maximize the performance of their vehicles without compromising fuel economy. Honda Access America, Honda's accessory development company, took on that challenge. Through aerodynamic improvements to the next generation HFP body kit, super-light alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers, a lighter HFP exhaust system and an upgraded HFP suspension kit, this concept offers the possibility of improving both fuel economy and performance. In fact, a very similar package has proven its worth on the race tracks of Japan on the Civic Type R race car, which campaigned in a spec series called the Super Taikyu Series.

Full Power mode brings 311 HP and 313 lb-ft torque, GT provides 252 HP and 268 lb-ft and in Eco Mode 222 HP and 236 lb-ft. That Eco Mode also gets better fuel economy than a normal VW Passat CC 2.0 TSI — up to 33 highway, 27 city. Inside VW has installed tasteful Recaro seating, piano black accents and cool white piping. Those big wheels over Brembo brakes don't look out of place either. Full details in the press release below.

2008 SEMA: VOLKSWAGEN CC ECO PERFORMANCE CONCEPT
311 HP Super CC ups the performance ante in luxury for the people
LAS VEGAS – Powerful performance meets luxury in the Super CC performance concept Volkswagen unveiled at the 2008 SEMA show in Las Vegas.
The Performance CC brings a sleek exterior treatment highlighted by black chrome exterior accents, grey pearl paint with custom front and rear bumper, side panels and machined aluminum spoiler. The black treatment continues inside with high-gloss piano black accents offset by matte black graphics. Customer black leather Recaro seats and matching floor mats are highlighted with white piping.
While the Performance CC looks striking, the upgrades will get hearts racing, the 2.0L TSI engine has been upgraded with an APR stage 3 turbocharger system with three performance levels. In Full Power mode the Performance CC brings 311 hp and 313 lbs. ft. torque; GT mode offers 252 hp and 268 lbs. ft. of torque; and in the Eco mode 222 hp and 236 lbs. ft. of torque. Also included is the APR stainless steel performance exhaust system. Key fact to take note of is that in the Eco performance mode, horsepower went up, as well as fuel economy. A production 2.0T CC automatic gets 28 hwy/19 city and our CC in Eco mode gets 33 hwy, 27 city. Even the full power mode showed a fuel economy increase!
The Performance CC sits on custom designed 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels and high performance 245/30 R20 Yokahama tires with an H&R street coil over sport suspension kit. With all this power to handle, Volkswagen has upgraded the brakes to provide extra power to stop. The Performance CC features 14-inch Brembo brakes with 4-piston Aluminum Alloy Brake Calipers and 355x32mm 2-Piece Floating Cross Drilled Discs with Billet Aluminum Hats.
The Performance CC was designed by the Volkswagen Design Center in California with assistance from APR, LLC (www.goapr.com), Recaro, H&R Suspension and Brembo North America.
Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Volkswagen of America, Inc. recently announced Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard equipment on all its 2009 vehicles. As a result, Volkswagen is one of the only original equipment manufacturers to offer an electronic stability control system on their entire product line – ahead of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) deadline requiring vehicles in the 2012 model year to include stability control systems. Volkswagen’s ESP technology works in conjunction with anti-lock brakes and helps reduce loss of control.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen Group of America is headquartered in Herndon, Va. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, GLI, Passat, Passat Wagon, CC, Eos, Routan, Tiguan and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.

[Source: VW]

The company is taking deposits for the regular version of the Scorpion (just $150,000), which offers 450 HP from the twin-turbocharged V6, and the much greener Scorpion HX ($250,000), which should be good for 600 HP and includes all manner of luxuries. We've heard of this technology before, though we remain skeptical until we see hard scientific proof. Video of the car and a press release below.

Scorpion Ronn Motor Company @ SEMA 2008

Ronn Motor Company Partners With duPont Registry to Debut Eco-Exotic ScorpionTM Supercar at SEMA

Debuting November 4th, Austin-Based Auto Company Revolutionizes Supercar Category at Show Famous for Debuting Groundbreaking Technology

AUSTIN, TX—(Marketwire) - Ronn Motor Company, Inc. (RMC) (PINKSHEETS: RNNM) is proud to announce the highly anticipated introduction of the world's first eco-exotic supercar with the Scorpion™ making its world debut at the 2008 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV, November 4th - 7th. The first supercar of its kind to ever be created, the Scorpion™ is set to be unveiled at a show famously known for displaying the very best in groundbreaking automotive products and new technology. On the eve of the world premiere, the gasoline-hydrogen hybrid has caught the attention of a wide gamut of enthusiasts, ranging from exotic car fans to green fuel aficionados, including renowned authority in luxury, duPont Registry, which will be honoring the eco-exotic at its own SEMA booth with its esteemed Publisher's Choice award.

"One of the missions of the duPont Registry is to bring our readers the very best in automotive luxury and to make sure they are aware of new, unique cars such as the Scorpion™ from Ronn Motor Company," said Thomas duPont, Founder and Publisher of the duPont Registry. "We are extremely proud to have the Scorpion™ with us at SEMA and think this wonderful car aptly addresses several issues the world faces today while simultaneously delivering a beautifully designed, astoundingly high performing exotic."

Designed by RMC and engineered by acclaimed design firm, MetalCrafters, with a flowing, sensually lined low slung body; the $150,000 (U.S.) twin-turbo 450-horsepower Scorpion™ supercar features the latest in green fuel technology through its proprietary H2Go™ Hydrogen On-Demand system. With an aesthetically pleasing look joined with supercar performance and environmentally friendly technology, Ronn Motors is set to create a new breed of high-performance exotic automobiles made for enthusiasts looking for an exotic without compromise.

"Ronn Motor Company is proud to announce that the world introduction of our Scorpion™ eco-exotic will take place at such a celebrated automobile event like SEMA," commented President and Chief Operating Officer Ronn Maxwell. "The SEMA show presents the perfect platform for us, and we couldn't be more excited for the Scorpion™ to be introduced there at the duPont Registry booth. Our hope with the Scorpion™ is to implement a paradigm shift not only in how the industry looks at supercars, but at cars in general."

The Scorpion™ will be displayed at the duPont Registry booth at the SEMA show, where Publisher Tom duPont will personally unveil the supercar to an enthusiastic gathering of leading automobile publications and members of the media as well as car aficionados. As recipient of the duPont Registry: A Buyers Gallery of Fine Automobiles® Publisher's Choice Award, the Scorpion™ was judged by the magazine as embodying forward-thinking technology and styling as acknowledged by Founder and Publisher Tom duPont.

The Scorpion™ supercar will be limited to 200 production units, retailing for $150,000 (U.S.). Deliveries of the vehicles are slated for the first quarter of 2009.

When we first saw the TIV-2 in those spy photos in May, details were thin. We didn't even realize it was his sequel to the original Tornado Intercept Vehicle (TIV). Now the TIV-2 is the star of Discovery Channel's "Storm Chasers" which debuted it's latest season in mid-October.

The original TIV was based around a two wheel drive Ford F-450 with a completely redesigned body optimized for protection and low to the ground with deployable ground anchors to keep winds from upending the vehicle. While the approach worked in concept, out on the trail of tornadoes it didn't turn out so well, getting hung up on road debris and downed trees. The original was more or less limited to on-road use — a type of geographic limiter tornadoes don't maintain. In addition to the low ground clearance, the incredibly high weight kept the truck's top speed to a mere 61 MPH.

That's where the TIV2 comes in. The first thing you notice from the new chase vehicle is it has sides fitted with hydraulic skirts that can be dropped down to direct high-speed wind safely around the truck. Whether the skirts are down or up, this sucker's imposing thanks to a chassis based on the 2008 Dodge 2500 4x4 with a 1/8th inch welded steel plate body over a steel frame. The chassis was originally strengthened by the now defunct USA 6X6 and welding students at Great Plains Technical Center. We say originally because the USA 6X6 design kept snapping rear shafts due to the 17,500 lb. weight of the vehicle. A new shop put two Dana 80s in the back and that's helped. Power comes from a 6.7 liter Cummins turbodiesel outfitted with propane and water injection — two methods for building muscle on demand, all the way up to 625 HP. That power goes to good use too, the truck has three driven axles with two sets of dual tires on the back, all of which can be locked in for total forward power and have a self leveling mechanism to keep everything flat on awkward terrain.

The fun stuff doesn't stop there. The raison d'etre for the TIV2 is what it can do with the turret up top — film super high resolution IMAX video for a mega-screen movie about tornadoes. The turret is constructed from steel plate, laminated tempered glass and polycarbonate sheets and can rotate 360 degrees to get what ever shot is needed. Just behind the turret is the science mast, used to measure wind speed, relative humidity and barometric pressure. The mast can actually fold down for clearance when the surroundings close in on the TIV-2.

As we said, all that steel and gear adds up, giving this baby a scale-tipping 17,500 lbs fully loaded, an asset when you don't want to get picked up and tossed like a rag doll. What's doubly funny about this thing is with its 92 gallon fuel tank, the truck has a range of about 750 miles with this monster returning the same fuel mileage as a Hummer H2 at 12 MPG. How that works out we have no idea.

On the inside there's more levers and buttons than you can shake a stick at — everything from hydraulics to lower this beast and make it hug the ground and provide the necessary ground-hugging downforce when an F-3 comes roaring overhead, to the Kicker speaker system wired into the CB radio in order to hear spotters on the line when trees are coming straight toward you. They also have their very own mapping and topography system which, unfortunately, wasn't plugged in and ready to go when we showed up.

But, the other scoop we learned is that Casey wants the next TIV, the TIV-3, to be a Baja pre-runner with a mid-mounted engine and the ability to really drop the truck to the lowest degree possible — a mere 4 feet tall when lowered for tornado-bunkering. Now that's a truck we want to see.

You can see Sean Casey and the rest of his team, along with the TIV2 do their thing on the Discovery Channel at 10 PM eastern. We're wondering if we ask nicely, when the the TIV2 has lived out its years, if Casey and Co. will donate it to Jalopnik's Post-Apocalyptic Vehicle garage.

GIVING NEW MEANING TO BEING AT THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME
STORM CHASERS ROARS BACK FOR SECOND SEASON ON DISCOVERY CHANNEL
— All new original series premieres Sunday, October 19, 2008, at 10 PM (ET/PT) —
(Silver Spring, Md.) –- Discovery Channel returns to the nation’s heartland - Tornado Alley -
for a firsthand look at one of nature’s most destructive forces in an all new season of
STORM CHASERS, premiering Sunday, October 19, 2008, at 10 PM (ET/PT).
Veteran research meteorologist Dr. Joshua Wurman, IMAX filmmaker Sean Casey and
chaser prodigy Reed Timmer all race to capture rare footage and valuable scientific data.
Last season, Casey’s tank-like Tornado Intercept Vehicle (TIV), raised eyebrows roaring
down the nation’s highways and byways looking for the shot of all time – filming from inside
a tornado. Now, his new and improved creation, the TIV-2, raises the stakes, providing not
only astonishing footage and but also new information on how tornados are formed, grow
and travel – research that can be used to increase early warning systems and save lives.
“Mixing science, fear and a good old fashioned American road trip STORM CHASERS packs a
torrent of excitement, knowledge and entertainment for the ultimate in television
immersion,” said John Ford, president and general manager, Discovery Channel.
Casey and Wurman make an unlikely team. Filming from the turret of his self-designed and
self-built TIV-2, Casey risks his life to get the most elusive tornado footage ever shot. As
the leader of the team, Wurman guides the TIV from inside his own vehicle command post,
The Doppler on Wheels (DOW). He makes split-second life-or-death decisions based on
information from Doppler radar; as the safety of the entire team rests on his shoulders.

Hot on their trail, and often one step ahead, is storm chasing wunderkind Timmer, a PhD
candidate in Meteorology at the University of Oklahoma and, ironically, a former student of
Wurman. Timmer and his rag tag team of buddies Joel (driver) and Chris (hailstone
collector), track storms in their unique way. Freed from complicated on-board computer
systems and intricate vehicle design, the threesome set a course for surprise and adventure.
STORM CHASERS is produced for Discovery Channel by Original Media. Charlie Corwin,
Lisa Bloch and Clara Markowicz are executive producers for Original Media. Bill Howard is
executive producer for Discovery Channel.

STORM CHASERS
Storm Facts
What is Tornado Alley?
Tornado Alley is a nickname in the popular media for a broad swath of relatively high
tornado occurrence in the central U.S. Violent or killer tornadoes do happen outside this
Tornado Alley every year. Tornadoes can occur almost anywhere in the U.S., including
west of the Rockies and east of the Appalachians — and even in Canada and overseas.
What is tornado season?
Tornadoes can happen any time of year if the conditions are right. However, tornado
season usually refers to the peak period for historical tornado reports in an area. There
is a general northward shift in "tornado season" in the U.S. from late winter through mid
summer. The peak period for tornadoes in the southern plains, for example, is during
May into early June. On the Gulf coast, it is earlier during the spring; in the northern
plains and upper Midwest, it is June or July.
How many people are killed every year by tornadoes? How do most deaths
happen in tornadoes?
On average, tornadoes kill about 60 people per year — most from flying or falling debris.
How many tornadoes hit the U.S. each year?
About one thousand. The actual average is unknown, because tornado spotting and
reporting methods have changed so much in the last several decades that the officially
recorded tornado climatologies are believed to be incomplete. Also, in the course of
recording thousands of tornadoes, errors are bound to occur. Events can be missed or
mis-classified; and some non-damaging tornadoes in remote areas could still be
unreported.
What was the strongest tornado? What is the highest wind speed in a
tornado?
Nobody knows. Tornado wind speeds have only been directly recorded in the weaker
ones, because strong and violent tornadoes destroy weather instruments. Mobile
Doppler radars such as the OU Doppler on Wheels have remotely sensed tornado wind
speeds above ground level as high as about 302 mph (on 3 May 1999 near Bridge Creek
OK) — the highest winds ever found near earth's surface by any means. [That tornado
caused F5 damage.] But ground-level wind speeds in the most violent tornadoes have
never been directly measured

[Sources: Discovery Channel, DiscoveryBlogs, TheDieselGarage, Storm Chasers Website]

TOYOTA TUNDRA DIESEL DUALLY PROJECT TRUCK
“Road Warrior” exterior combined with luxury Interior

Making a bold and adventurous statement about the contrasts between rugged “Road Warrior” performance and opulent luxury, a Toyota Tundra CrewMax diesel dually project truck, which made its debut at the 2007 SEMA Show, is back again for SEMA 2008 in Toyota Vehicle Coral.

At its core, the Tundra light duty pickup’s stock engine was replaced with a medium duty diesel powerplant plucked from a 35,000-pound commercial truck. The 8.0-liter inline six-cylinder high-torque engine, made by Toyota affiliate Hino, is mated with an Eaton five-speed manual transmission and a Hino back end. Toyota Motorsports Technical Group heavily modified the Tundra to accommodate the beefed-up driveline.

A host of custom exterior treatments point to the off-the-charts muscle under the hood. Prominent examples include forged aluminum alloy 22.5-inch wheels custom made by Alcoa, a diamond plate-lined bed, a charcoal gray metallic flat paint finish and a fifth-wheel hitch rated at 24,000 pounds. The muscular theme on the outside shifts dramatically to that of luxury on the inside with hand-sewn ginger leather seats, suede pillars and headliner and dual rear captain’s chairs with individual DVD entertainment systems.

PARTNERS:
Engineering by Motorsports Technical Group
Interior by Fast Ed’s Interiors
Paint by Focus on Cars
Wheels by Alcoa
Power steps and fuel door by Amp Research
Sound system by Kenwood
Sound installation by Beach Auto Sound
Lighting by PIAA
Exhaust by Magnaflow
5th wheel hitch by Reese

[Source: Toyota]

That's right, those are roller blade wheels. Carbon fiber gets expensive and rather than just replacing the paint on the rear of the Challenger those wheels should help the muscle car smoothly glide on 1990s technology. Maybe a Moon Boot-based system may end up on an off-road Ram.
Let's just hope they'll also have a Dodge Ram full of tires to tow it around. Details from Chrysler below.

Mopar® Unveils 2009 Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger at SEMA

Las Vegas, Nov 4, 2008 - Mopar®, Chrysler LLC’s global service and parts division, is bringing the all-new Dodge Challenger to the next generation of motorsports enthusiasts. Mopar will unveil the much-anticipated 2009 Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger today at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas.

Team Mopar driver and two-time Formula Drift (FD) champion Samuel Hübinette, who will steer the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger during the 2009 season, participated in the reveal. Hübinette’s team owner Shaun Carlson, owner of NuFormz Racing, was also in attendance. Carlson spearheaded the build of the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger at his NuFormz Racing shop in Ontario, Calif.

The unveiling of the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger at SEMA continues Mopar’s long commitment to the rising motorsport of drifting. Mopar and Hübinette teamed up to capture the inaugural FD championship in 2004, with Hübinette also taking the 2006 FD title. Hübinette has claimed nine career FD victories, a series high, spreading the word about Mopar power to the younger demographic of race fans that follow drifting.

“The debut of the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger solidifies the Mopar theme — if you can dream it, you can build it with Mopar,” said Steve Shugg, Director of Sales and Marketing – Mopar, Chrysler LLC. “Mopar is reaching out to today’s car enthusiast by combining its storied racing heritage with a variety of performance and accessory products that allow customers to make a personal statement with their vehicle.”

Shaun Carlson and Samuel Hübinette on the 2009 Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger
The creation of the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger was no easy task for Carlson and his NuFormz Racing crew.

“We learned a lot from building the Mopar Drift Dodge Charger, which Sam drove during the 2007 season, and transferred that knowledge to the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger,” said Carlson. ”When we decided to bring out a new competition drift car, what better platform than the new Dodge Challenger. It has cool styling, great aerodynamics and it’s a car that we feel is going to create a lot of buzz among fans of the FD Series.”

The Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger underwent modifications, including a variety of safety components such as a full roll-cage and a five-point harness. A front carbon-fiber splitter and rear carbon-fiber wing were added for improved aero dynamics, and weight was trimmed off the Dodge Challenger SRT8 chassis by utilizing a custom carbon-fiber body by NuFormz Racing.

“One of the biggest modifications was making the car light,” Carlson remarked. “Much of the body is now carbon-fiber, which cut quite a bit of weight. We’ve been able to put a lot of time, effort and hard work into this car. It’s going to be strong.”

The powerplant of the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger features a Mopar A8 aluminum engine built by Gary Stanton Racing Engines, with Mopar W9 raised port heads, pumping out an estimated 850 hp and 849 lb-ft of torque to BFGoodrich tires. Additional Mopar components include Mopar front and rear sway bars on the suspension.

“This is going to be an exciting time, bringing out another car and another platform,” said Hübinette, who in 2009 will mark his sixth year as a member of Team Mopar. “All that we learned from building the Dodge Charger drift car is transformed into this car and really makes it competitive. The Dodge Challenger is definitely the hot vehicle right now — everybody’s talking about it. Having the vehicle built as a competition drift car is just going to add even more excitement. We’re pumped up about launching this car, doing some testing over the winter and getting it ready to rock, and then taking home some victories next year.”

[Source: Chrysler]

The only thing that got more gawks than the gals manning the booths was the front suspension on this WARN-equipped AEV Brute-conversioned Wrangler. And why shouldn't it? We hear the suspension's a multi-thousand-dollar kit from Portal-Tek. Don't worry, we'll grab some more pics later today.

TUNDRA/DUCATI TRANSPORTER

The Ducati Desmosedici RR is the only street legal MotoGP bike ever produced. The ultimate track day bike requires the ultimate transport; that’s where Toyota comes in with the 2009 Tundra Ducati Desmosedici transporter. The Tundra/Ducati Transporter is built on a Tundra CrewMax, which has been modified to accept a 6.5-inch bed. The transporter is tied thematically to the bike, incorporating Ducati Corse style along with high tech materials and execution to create synergies for two companies obsessed with quality and performance. Additional features include major bed innovations such as flip up bedsides, a motorized loading ramp by Rampage, integrated tool and spares storage, and popup solar panels for accessory power. Performance is enhanced through the full catalog of TRD Performance
parts such as supercharger, exhaust, intake, suspension and brakes. The interior treatment by Fast Ed’s Interiors combines high tech style with Italian flair.

TUNDRA/DUCATI TRANSPORTER FEATURES

• Ducati Corse Exterior by Focus On Cars
• Custom fabricated seats, sewn carpet, suede headliner by Fast Ed’s
Interiors
• Seat Massagers by In Seat Solutions-Relaxor Massage Products
• Rampage Powerlift Ramp
• Alcoa 22” custom forged aluminum wheels
• Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico tires
• CarriageWorks Rear Roll Pan
• Toyota Racing Development Performance Parts
o TRD Boost Gauge and Pod
o Big Brake Kit
o 5.7L Supercharger (500HP/550TQ
o TRD Lowering Kit
o TRD Dual Exhaust
o TRD Sway Bar
• USAG 526V ToolBox (Official Tool Supplier to Ducati)
• RockBlocker protective light films
• VIS Racing Carbon Fiber hood

Ducati
• 2008 Ducati Desmosedici RR Motorcycle
• Ducati Corse Racing Suit by Dainese
• Ducati Corse Helmet by Arai
• Ducati Corse Boots
• Ducati Corse Gloves

[Source: Toyota]

If it were a Jalopnik booth, we'd definitely put Wes & Ray up on the block. If it was for a company in the automotive industry we'd probably pick both a man and a woman in an attempt to reach a wider audience. For a young woman we'd look for someone classier, perhaps with an Eva Green sort of look. And she'd be fully clothed. For the sharply dressed gent we'd consider someone like Colin Firth. That man can wear a sweater...

While the performance is enough to take your breath away, the styling is nothing to sneeze at either. With a slick hood that straddles the line between garish and awesome, a set of bigger wheels and tasteful side skirts, there's nothing to complain about in the looks department. If any of this ends up on the market, there are going to be some shocked BMW drivers around.

HYUNDAI TECHNICAL CENTER AND RKSPORT GIVE GENESIS SEDAN ATTITUDE BOOST, EFFICIENCY GAINS AT SEMA SHOW 2008

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 11/04/2008

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) and RKSport, Inc. teamed up to develop a customized, high-performance Genesis sedan for the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. HATCI contributed a supercharged Tau V8 engine with cylinder deactivation technology that boosts output to 460-horsepower and improves fuel economy by up to 8 percent. RKSport customized the recently launched rear-wheel drive Genesis inside and out to help make it one of the main attractions at Hyundai’s booth in the Las Vegas Convention Center from Nov. 4 – Nov. 7, 2008.

“The 2009 Hyundai Genesis provides us a great opportunity to expand on the overall concepts originally designed by Hyundai engineers,” says Bob Smith, owner, RKSport. “We plan to maximize the performance abilities of the Genesis and are looking forward to developing a must-see car at this year’s SEMA show.”

The RKSport/HATCI Genesis is designed with an understated elegance. The Platinum Silver color scheme highlights the body kit, exterior components, clean lines and contours of the vehicle. Under the skin, the car is powered by Hyundai’s state of the art 4.6-liter Tau engine, which produces 460-horsepower with the help of an IHI screw-type supercharger and 11 pounds of boost for performance driving. The car reaches 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and clicks through the quarter mile gate in 13.58 seconds at 108 mph.

The vehicle also boasts advanced cylinder deactivation technology, which further improves efficiency and fuel savings at cruising speeds. In fact, this Genesis powered by a supercharged Tau delivers an estimated 18 miles per gallon in city and 27 miles per gallon on the highway which match the fuel economy number of the Genesis 3.8-liter V6.

“The Tau is Hyundai’s first-ever V8 engine and it offers great performance characteristics today with even more potential in the future,” says John Juriga, HATCI powertrain director. “The company designed the Tau with future technologies in mind protecting for boosting, direct injection, cylinder deactivation and more. Advanced technology is a cornerstone of our plans to improve efficiency and fuel economy across our lineup.”

Styling modifications to the RKSport/HATCI Genesis include a modified hood, polyurethane front lower fascia, rear lower fascia, left and right side skirts, plus a composite rear roof spoiler and trunk spoiler. RKSport partnered with well-known aftermarket companies to add TSW alloy wheels, a Baer performance brake package, K&N performance air intake, Eibach lowering springs and a Magnaflow performance exhaust.

POWERPLANT

Although Hyundai has not announced any production intentions for a supercharged version of the Tau V8, HATCI is often tasked by the company with special projects. The team at HATCI has been working on combining a boosted Tau with cylinder deactivation for more than a year and was more than happy to supply the powerplant in the RKSport show car.

Hyundai’s reputation for value is based on efficiency in design, engineering and manufacturing that provides value to the customer, so the HATCI team set about their boosted Tau project with the intention of improving overall fuel efficiency and power. They added cylinder deactivation to improve the fuel economy when highway cruising at light pedal inputs. This Tau engine achieves cylinder deactivation on four cylinders through the addition of latching roller finger followers with oil control solenoids, which de-latch at cruising speeds, thus deactivating intake and exhaust valves. The advanced engine control module regulates cylinder deactivation when the vehicle is not in need of eight-cylinder power. But when the hammer is dropped, this Tau takes on a new personality activating all eight cylinders and stirring in 11 pounds of boost courtesy of an IHI supercharger.

HATCI started with a stock Tau 4.6-liter V8 with a goal of improving performance, but maintaining the engine’s inherent durability and efficiency. To help handle the increased power planned for the boosted engine, several key components were optimized. The cracked metal rods are nearly stock, but feature a robust optimized geometry adding mass in high load areas around the pin bore and shank. The pistons also have a unique design and help provide the optimal reduced 9:1 compression ratio, down from the naturally aspirated model’s 10.2:1. The forged crank shaft is stock. Oil squirters were added to cool the undersides of the pistons during operation.

IHI supplied their screw-type supercharger to pump air to the enhanced engine. The “big mouth” intake increases efficiency of air flow through the unit. HATCI mounted the fuel runners directly to the supercharger to improve the packaging efficiency of the unit. This allowed them to maintain injector spacing and orientation. The intercooler mounts beneath the supercharger in the engine’s “V” despite its inherently tight head-to-head width. The throttle body is located after the supercharger with a Y-adapter feeding air to the plenum. This compact design was part of HATCI’s engineering brief – not only to boost the engine, but to do it with practicality and efficiency. Indeed, the tidy engine and blower assembly tuck neatly under a stock Genesis hood.

Adding power under the hood required some additional enhancements throughout the powertrain. The ZF 6-speed automatic, already a world-class transmission, was built to nominal specifications. Detroit Clutch and Gear provided a beefier two-piece drive shaft with larger, reinforced u-joints. HATCI fabricators replaced the stock exhaust system with a 3-inch OD stainless steel system complete with large-port catalytic converters.

HYUNDAI GENESIS

The Genesis sedan is built on Hyundai’s all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers two powertrains, including a 3.8-liter V6 engine and Hyundai’s all-new 4.6-liter Tau V8. Tau produces 375 horsepower, leading all its competitors in specific output with 80 horsepower per liter while delivering 25 mile per gallon. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, ZF six-speed transmission, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Smart Cruise Control, Lexicon® audio systems and electronic active head restraints. Additionally, all Hyundai Genesis have standard iPod connectivity.

RKSPORT, INC.

Established in 1993 by R.K. (Bob) Smith, RKSport’s products are founded on appearance, performance, style and functionality from RK’s extensive racing background. Located in Murrieta, Calif., RKSport manufactures its own brand of high performing and aesthetically pleasing polyurethane and composite material products. RKSport also builds tooling and private label products for several well-known companies around the globe. For more information about RKSport visit www.rksport.com.

HYUNDAI AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER, INC. (HATCI)

Established in 1986 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, HATCI is responsible for testing and certification of all Hyundai products sold in North America. HATCI is now headquartered in a 200,000 square foot technical center in Superior Township, Michigan, near Ann Arbor. In addition to testing and certification, HATCI provides engineering, design and on-going product development for several Hyundai products in the North America.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of South Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through almost 800 dealerships nationwide.

[Source: Hyundai]

BUILDING THE RHYS MILLEN RACING HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 4, 2008 – In February, Rhys Millen Racing (RMR) approached Hyundai Motor America with a unique concept to introduce the all-new 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe to the aftermarket and racing enthusiasts prior to its spring 2009 on-sale date. The RMR-designed "Art of Speed" Genesis Coupe called for a vehicle with the visual impact to win awards at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show while boasting sufficient performance to put the driver in the winner's circle the following weekend. Backed by Rhys Millen's reputation both on the track and in the aftermarket, Hyundai delivered its first prototype Genesis Coupe 2.0T to the RMR shop on August 8, allowing just 12 weeks of build time before the doors opened at SEMA in Las Vegas on November 4.

A crew of six RMR employees promptly stripped the car to bare metal. At the same time, the crew began custom-fabricating new aftermarket parts and accessories for the Genesis Coupe which are certain to be among the first available in the aftermarket once Hyundai's newest addition takes to the streets next year.

In the weeks that followed, RMR developed a machine that retains the distinct, bold look of the Genesis Coupe, but adds flair with custom components on the exterior, a radically altered racing-spec interior and serious performance enhancements from under the hood all the way to the pavement.

INTERIOR
The interior of the "Art of Speed" Genesis Coupe is unrecognizable from its origins as a well-appointed 2+2 coupe designed with everyday driving in mind. All comfort and convenience features are removed to make way for a custom-fabricated eight-point safety cage and firewall which reinforce the Genesis Coupe's already stiff chassis. By removing the roof, the RMR fabricators welded every aspect of the safety cage to the frame of the car. The braces on the A and B pillars also tie into the strength of the body. The safety cage is required for racing and a single Sparco racing seat further protects the driver in the overhauled cockpit.

CARBON FIBER BODY PANELS

Millen quickly decided to take the already light weight Genesis Coupe and make it even lighter. A second Genesis Coupe was used to construct molds which allowed body panels to be replicated out of carbon fiber. The carbon fiber panels range from 50 percent to 80 percent lighter than the sheet metal they replaced. This weight-saving approach is carried throughout the car without compromising its powerful curves, surface detail and "Z" bodyside line. The hood, deck lid, roof, doors, fenders, front fascia and side skirts are all built out of carbon fiber. For example, a factory Hyundai Genesis Coupe door weighs 68 pounds but modifications made by RMR reduce the door weight to just 8.5 pounds.

The side skirts have functional flat rocker panels with ducts to pull air out from underneath car. A functional splitter on the front fascia and a built-in diffuser create pressure without drag. A rear diffuser with long tunnels keeps the air moving underneath the car. Downforce has been further increased by an APR GTC-500 rear wing that is fully adjustable and was designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. The hood is vented to dissipate heat and Aerocatch hood latches are used for safety.

The rear widebody fenders are made out of fiberglass and blend seamlessly into the vehicle design with a creative painting concept.

SUSPENSION

The RMR Genesis Coupe utilizes a KW coilover suspension with two-way adjustable damping technology. Adjustable chrome molly sway bars dial the suspension in further for true track performance. RMR Racing also fabricated adjustable lower control arms.

RMR TURBO KIT

The spirited 2.0-liter turbocharged engine which comes standard on the Genesis Coupe 2.0T is enhanced by a Turbonetics turbocharger, waistgate and blow-off valve to provide extra horsepower and torque. RMR also designed a custom intake manifold to ensure better engine breathing.

WHEELS, TIRES AND BRAKES
To ensure that the enhanced power plant translates all the way to road performance, RMR added 18 by 9.5-inch front and 18 by 10.5-inch rear SSR type-F competition lightweight wheels and Bridgestone Potenza soft compound race slicks. The wheels surround the factory Brembo brake calipers which are already ideal for racing.

PAINT SCHEME
The paint scheme is a combination of Hyundai blue, silver and unpainted black carbon fiber with its signature weave pattern. Most of the upper steel body components including rear fender and A and B pillars are painted Hyundai blue. The front fascia is blue and silver with carbon fiber accents. The hood is black and blue. The carbon fiber doors have silver accents and the silver is carried down to the side skirts and into the rear fender.

RMR PARTS
All of the parts for the RMR Genesis Coupe are built with a modular design. A customer could put on all the parts at once or add them one at a time. The carbon fiber decklid, hood, rocker panels, rear fenders, front fascia, front fenders and rear diffuser all have molds and will fit the factory mounts and could be sold in the future.

HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE HIGHLIGHTS
• Hyundai's first rear-wheel drive sports car
• 310-horsepower (est.) from enhanced 3.8-liter V6 with premium fuel
• Standard 220-horsepower (est.) turbocharged, intercooled inline four cylinder with premium fuel
• Genesis Coupe arrives in the spring of 2009 as a 2010 model

RHYS MILLEN RACING

R. Millen Motor Sports Sales (RMR) was founded 12 years ago by Rhys Millen to fulfill a huge demand for quality aftermarket products created by the Millen Racing heritage. Similar to motor sport clothing merchandise to a race fan, RMR offers proven race products to street customers primarily based on its motor sports associations. Since its creation, RMR has built itself up become one of the industries most respected tuners for Toyota, Lexus and Mitsubishi. In addition to RMR's excellent relationship with auto manufacturers, the company has custom built many private vehicles for celebrities such as basketball star Dennis Rodman, actor Jason Priestley and rock star Alex Van Halen. RMR has also built cars and worked closely with the producers of the blockbuster hit franchise "The Fast and the Furious."

RMR currently offers more than 100 products that are designed and produced in its facility or private labeled exclusively for RMR. These parts are carefully designed to provide the customer with quick and easy installation instructions with the highest quality. In many cases, its parts have met or exceeded factory specifications allowing dealers to warranty their installation keeping the cars under the factory warranty.

[Source: Hyundai, Streetfire]

Three years and running without rubber...

I'd be a little wary...those are probably the kind of girls where you want to put TWO covers on your car, if you catch my tokyo drift.

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Especially if you double-bag.

[Image: Saucyman.com]

Check out the way the harnesses are mounted. By attaching the shoulder belts to a point lower than the shoulders, the driver and passenger’s spines will be compressed in the event of the car running into something. This will crush the vertebrae and could even lead to paralysis in extreme cases.

Other modifications include tastelessly applied decals, plus the usual assortment of big wings, big wheels, lowered suspension and fancy brakes. We’re not sure what’s going on inside the GT-RR’s engine bay, but judging by Bespoke Venture’s online selection of engine upgrades, it’s probably plenty.

I was walking by and saw the folks from KNIGHT pulling the sheet off the $295,000 XV in the middle of the SEMA parking lot. As they were pulling it off I noticed them trying to start the uber-luxurious black barge but it sounded like the engine wouldn't turn over. Perhaps the battery was dead? Frankly we don't know; however, we were manhandled and pushed away from taking any more pics by a short swarthy man with a ‘stache, so we won't be returning to find out if they got their act together in time for the official unveil.

Kumho describes its tires as having “semi-run-flat capability," though we're pretty sure since there's basically no air in them anyway, they're running semi-flat all the time. Judge for yourself: The actual press release, on which we can find no signs of cocaine, follows.

KUMHO LAUNCHES WORLD’S FIRST 15 SERIES TYRE

Ever the innovator, Kumho is launching the world’s first ultra low profile 15 Series tyre at the 2008 SEMA (Speciality Equipment Market Association) Show in Las Vegas this week (November 4-7).

The 385/15ZR22 size ECSTA SPT KU31 has been developed as a conversion option for such exotic sports cars as the Ferrari F430, Dodge Viper, and Corvette Z06.

The company has used cutting-edge computer simulation technology to optimise the sidewall structure, thereby preventing the formation of standing waves or ripples in the contact patch – a problem that can occur with the build up of heat at high speeds.

The new tyre also benefits from a semi run flat capability, ensuring it remains firmly fixed to the rim even after a puncture or general loss of pressure.

“The world’s first 15 Series tyre is a perfect example of what we have achieved through our ongoing commitment to research and development,” said Sae-chul Oh, Kumho’s President and CEO. “This is one of many innovations by our company which include aroma, coloured smoke and X-speed tyres. We will maintain our position at the cutting edge of tyre technology as we race towards our goal of becoming one of the world’s top five tyre makers.”

[source: Kumho]

Something Strange in the Neighborhood
As a tribute to the upcoming 25th Anniversary of the original theatrical release of the blockbuster film “Ghostbusters,” the original ECTO-1 vehicle used in the 1984 movie will be on display.

Recently restored at Cinema Vehicle Services in North Hollywood, Calif., the ECTO-1 has been fully upgraded with Sony Xplod gear. The “ectomobile” features Sony’s slim series subwoofers, a DVD A/V system, iPod adapter, and Sony marine amps and speakers. It also has a Sony MP3 player, 10-disc CD changer and NV-U83T navigation system installed.

“A classic piece of film history, the ECTO-1 is truly one of a kind,” Kahn said. “The vehicle is perfect for showcasing all that we have to offer in mobile A/V, as no other manufacturer can bring the excitement of new technology and a blockbuster film to SEMA like Sony can.”

The ECTO-1, Sony’s Hip Hop Live tour truck and nine additional custom models can all be found at the company’s outdoor feature car booth #72005.

[Source: Sony]

Tiguan Performance Concept
Stylish, powerful and rockin' are three words that describe the Tiguan Performance. An upgraded exterior body kit, a three-stage turbo kit ringing out 312 hp and 319 lbs. ft of torque and a custom designed and built sound system from Rockford Fosgate leave this Tiguan looking great, driving great and sounding great.

[World Car Fans]

Us? We're torn. It would either be a '73 Alfa GTV donk with an LS9 crate motor or some sort of explosive device. Or a combination of the two...

(QOTD is your chance to answer the day's most pressing automotive questions and experience the opinions of the insightful insiders, practicing pundits and gleeful gearheads that make up the Jalopnik commentariat. If you've got a suggestion for a good "Question Of The Day" send an email to tips at jalopnik dot com.)

COBRA JET THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE MUSTANG FR500 SERIES OF RACE CARS FROM FORD RACING

DEARBORN, Mich, Nov. 4, 2008 – With the addition of the 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang, Ford Racing will have once again expanded its current stable of race-ready Mustang race cars.

This time, however, the Mustang is designed for drag racing.

The Mustang FR500CJ, known simply as the Cobra Jet, will be officially unveiled Nov. 4 at the 2008 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. It joins its road racing brethren: the Mustang FR500S, the Mustang FR500C and the Mustang FR500GT.

“The Cobra Jet is the newest offspring of the Ford Racing lineup of race cars,” said Jamie Allison, manager of the Ford Racing Performance Group. “We started with the FR500C in 2005 and then followed by the FR500S in 2007.

“All along the way, we worked with Brian Wolfe, who, at the time, was really in the calibration activity. He oversaw worldwide calibrations, and he was a big supporter of Ford Racing, both professionally and personally,” Allison said. “He had always kind of asked us about our plans to do a drag race car and the time had just come early this year to, indeed, take all of the lessons we learned, all the processes, all of the relationships that we have inside with the plant and with the team and put together a sportsmen-destined drag race Mustang. Clearly, what we did in 1968 is the impetus for it, and we felt that it was time to bring back the Cobra Jet.”

The Cobra Jet is the drag racing equivalent of the Mustang FR500S, allowing those interested in NHRA sportsmen drag racing the opportunity to get involved with an affordable vehicle that can compete right off of the truck and run in the 10-second range.

“We are talking about designing and building competition-ready race cars,” added Allison. “These are not just the simple parts that we sometimes create. This is a full-fledged, ready to race vehicle. There is a lot of engineering that goes into the preparation, development, testing, and release of these cars. There’s a full team of engineers from Ford Racing who have been involved on the engineering side of the Ford Racing Mustangs, led by Andy Slankard who leads the group. On the Cobra Jet, that group was personally directed and overseen by Brian Wolfe because of his personal background of racing in the sportsmen class. So he’s been hands-on involved in the very specifications of the 40th anniversary Cobra Jet. ”

In addition to the Cobra Jet, the other Ford Racing Mustangs provide customers a racing ladder, all within one manufacturer, to climb up through the ranks of professional racing. The Ford Racing Mustang ladder in road racing begins with the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School at Miller Motorsports Park featuring specially prepared school Mustangs.

The next step on the ladder is the Mustang FR500S, which is delivered as a race-ready vehicle complete with a racing seat and safety harnesses, and provides competitors with a base to hone their driving skills and an exciting year-long schedule to race against other semi-pro drivers in the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup.

Moving further up the ladder puts racers behind the wheel of the Mustang FR500C, which competes in the Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series, and the FR500GT4, which competes in the GT4 European Cup. Both Mustangs are proven winners with each car having won championships in its first year of competition. The FR500C led drivers to championships in 2005 and 2008, while the FR500GT4 has won two titles in the GT4 European Cup in 2007 and 2008.

At the top of the ladder sit both the Mustang FR500GT and FR500GT3, which represent the ultimate race-bred road racing Mustang. The FR500GT is being homologated for Grand-Am Rolex GT and other applications, while the FR500GT3 has already competed in select FIA GT3 European Championship races.

Customers or competitors looking for more information on how to get behind the wheel of their own Cobra Jet Mustang should visit www.fordracingparts.com.

FORD RACING COBRA JET MUSTANG
The Legend Continues
(M-FR500-CJ)

In 1968, Ford took the NHRA Winternationals by storm with the Cobra Jet Mustang. Only 50 factory lightweights were built, and in its first appearance, the Cobra Jet won. Forty years after this historic event, Ford Racing is happy to announce that the legend continues with a new NHRA-legal race car – the 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang!

The 2008 Ford Racing Cobra Jet (FR500CJ) is a factory-built race car (serialized but no VIN), ready for the drag strip with only minor additional prep required. It is available for order from any Ford dealer as a Ford Racing part. Following are key Ford Racing components to help define this exciting new race car:

Functional

* 5.4 Cobra Jet engine
* Cobra Jet cold air kit
* Throttle body
* A/C deleted
* Crankshaft damper
* Cobra Jet bell housing
* 6-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission with SFI bell housing
* Stainless steel long-tube racing headers
* 9" rear axle assembly
* One piece driveshaft drive shaft
* Single hoop drive shaft loop
* Cobra Jet rear control arms and anti-roll bar
* Ford Racing adjustable dampers
* Drag race spring kit
* Cobra Jet wheels — 15" x 4" (front), 15" x 10" (rear)

Exterior

* Painted Cobra Jet body in white
* Cobra Jet hood scoop
* Cobra Jet Lexan backlight
* Flush quarter window louvers

Interior

* 5" pedestal tachometer
* SVT Mustang short-throw shifter with black shift knob and handle
* Cobra Jet seat package

Visit www.fordracingparts.com for more information.

[Source: Ford]

“NELLY” FLEX UNVEILED AT SEMA SHOW

Nelly's Customized 2009 Ford Flex to be Unveiled at SEMA Show

LAS VEGAS, Nev., Nov. 4, 2008 – Grammy Award-winning artist Nelly will see his brand new customized 2009 Ford Flex for the first time today when the vehicle is unveiled on the Ford stand at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

The 34-year-old rapper, singer and actor says Ford’s newest crossover caught his eye for the first time in July when it was on display at a Ford-sponsored event in Atlanta.

“When I saw it, I said ‘Yo, that’s hot! How can I get one of those?’” he recalled. “I thought it was a real unique vehicle.”

Later that night, Nelly shared his excitement about the car with his good friend, hip hop DJ Funkmaster Flex, who has a customized Flex of his own. That’s when the metaphorical wheels started turning.

"I've been partnering with Ford on some amazing vehicles since 2005," said Funkmaster Flex. When Nelly reached out on wanting a custom Flex of his own, I knew it was going to be 'on and poppin.' From our initial meeting with him at my warehouse in the Bronx to follow-up conversations that we had about this vehicle, there was no doubt that we could deliver something that would ultimately be true to Nelly and his own style".

"When it comes to a vehicle looking sweet, this crossover is beyond sweet," said Flex of the crossover. "This vehicle is one where you can be hot coming off the dealership lot—which is a plus, but when you know that you can customize it afterwards and turn a car that's a 10 into a 20—that's super hot." It was even more exciting for me to be able to work with Nelly and introduce him to the Ford team of designers to create a vehicle all his own. It was definitely an experience."

Usha Raghavachari, Ford's Crossover Marketing Communications Manager, attended the initial event in Atlanta and says she was delighted to see how enthusiastic Nelly was about the Flex.

“He is a huge hip hop star who transcends the traditional audience. The fact that he is attracted to Flex is testament to its head-turning design,” she said.

Nelly says he was thrilled about the idea of “building” his own Flex.

“I’m what they call a ‘premiere stuntastic stuntman,’ and so you know when it comes to cars, I’m pretty inclined to go overboard,” he said. “I wanted to really