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Deliveries of the Ford GT have been going since February, but various issues have caused Ford to notify owners that their GTs will be running somewhat late. Automotive News reports that owners got a letter this week from Ford saying delivery of their GT will be pushed back due to supplier constraints and homologation testing issues. "The craftsmanship required to build these vehicles for global markets has required that we adjust our original timing projections," the letter says. The letter goes on to say customers will be notified with an updated "three-month projected delivery window" within the week. Ford declined to say how long the delays will be, telling Automotive News, that it "nearly completed" the ramp-up process. According to a spokesman, Ford has delivered about 50 GTs out of the 250 models that will be built through the 2020 model year. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

Lincoln is trying to stand out from the crowded luxury field by offering owners various services and perks. They have announced a new service that will begin with the 2017 Continental allowing owners not to visit the dealership to have their car serviced. A Lincoln service valet will pick up an owner's vehicle and take it in for service. The owner will be left a courtesy car while theirs is being worked on. Once service is completed, the vehicle is returned to the owner. This perk comes at no charge for the owner. “Lincoln Pickup and Delivery service revolves around complementing our luxury vehicles with outstanding luxury experiences. Our dealers view this as a way to differentiate the client experience for Lincoln owners,” said Lincoln North America director of sales and marketing Andrew Frick. Lincoln has been doing trials of this service at select dealers and found it to be a success. Of owners who participated, 98 percent said they would have their vehicle serviced at the dealer again and 93 percent said they would buy another Lincoln. Now Lincoln isn't the first to offer this service to owners. Hyundai offered this service with their Equus flagship. What makes this program different is it will be available on Lincoln's entire 2017 lineup. Source: Lincoln Press Release is on Page 2 LINCOLN IS ONLY LUXURY AUTOMAKER TO PROVIDE STANDARD PICKUP AND DELIVERY SERVICE FOR ALL ITS VEHICLES TO SAVE CLIENTS TIME AND EFFORT DEARBORN, Mich., June 28, 2016 – Lincoln adds the luxury segment’s only standard Pickup and Delivery Service across all 2017 nameplates starting with the all-new Lincoln Continental. The exclusive standard service builds on the brand’s commitment to providing a human, warm and personal experience at all Lincoln dealerships. Lincoln Service Valet will pick up a client’s vehicle at an agreed location and, provide a complimentary Lincoln loaner vehicle, and then take the client’s vehicle to the dealership for service. Once complete, clients can arrange for their washed and serviced vehicle to be returned to them at the location of their choice. “Lincoln Pickup and Delivery service revolves around complementing our luxury vehicles with outstanding luxury experiences,” says Andrew Frick, Lincoln North American director of sales and services. “This kind of Quiet Luxury provides an exclusive and personally crafted service experience that enhances their lifestyle and saves them what is a true luxury item – their time.” Lincoln has been piloting this program with a select group of dealers since May 2015 with overwhelming results: 98 percent of clients indicate they would be more likely to receive service from that Lincoln dealer in the future 98 percent would recommend Lincoln and the service to a friend 93 percent are likely to purchase another Lincoln vehicle “Our dealers view this as a way to differentiate the client experience for Lincoln owners,” says Frick. “No matter what Lincoln vehicle clients have from our portfolio, they have the peace of mind of getting that vehicle to and from service at a location of their choice, with a complimentary Lincoln loaner in order to maintain their busy schedules. “When nearly 100 percent of clients receiving this service say they would recommend Lincoln to a friend, it clearly indicates positive momentum for the brand and our dealers,” adds Frick. This exclusive Pickup and Delivery marks another milestone in Lincoln Motor Company commitment to merge great products, an outstanding experience and impeccable service – part of its original 2012 business plan. Since Lincoln began this journey, it has delivered four all-new products in four years, established a dealer network in China, built brand awareness, and increased volume for the brand and Lincoln products. As part of Lincoln’s ongoing client experience efforts, these successful programs have already been implemented: Lincoln Concierge: A trusted personal advisor – like the most attuned hotel concierge – assists clients 24/7 online at www.lincoln.com. While other luxury brands offer similar services, only Lincoln provides clients with an opportunity for video chat with a live person. Black Label: Started in 2015, the number of participating dealers has increased to more than 90 committed locations. Black Label provides personalized shopping with dedicated personnel in the showroom, online, or in locations convenient to clients. Specially trained Black Label experience liaisons meet prospective clients at their home, office, or anywhere within 30 miles of the showroom to begin the experience. Acting as a personal shopping assistant, the liaison helps clients identify their ideal vehicle by sharing paint and wood trim samples, as well as material swatches. Lincoln Black Label owners enjoy special privileges – ranging from extended premium service and maintenance coverage on wear items to Culinary Collection membership that provides access to a curated list of restaurants from coast to coast. Date Night: This extended test drive allows qualified buyers the chance to experience a Lincoln vehicle for up to 48 hours. In 2015, Date Night resulted in more than 11,000 sessions at select dealers, prompting nearly an 11 percent increase in Lincoln purchases. The program attracted nearly 70 percent of clients who had been with other luxury nameplates. Lincoln Institute: Training for key client-facing individuals is provided through Lincoln Institute. The program, which combines all of the brand’s training efforts under one umbrella, has been expanded to include all Lincoln dealers. Lincoln Institute includes not only hospitality training, but an all-new series of workshops that provide participants with tools to help local teams develop and execute processes consistently for luxury clients. Pickup and Delivery is an important milestone in Lincoln’s commitment to providing personal client services to match its unique luxury products, coming at the perfect time as Lincoln prepares to launch the much-anticipated 2017 Lincoln Continental. The all-new Lincoln Continental returns as the brand flagship this fall, offering first-class travel for clients in America and China through warm, human touches and a contemporary design. The full-size sedan is designed to appeal to culturally progressive clients who define luxury on their own terms – craving superior quality, craftsmanship and safety. “Quiet Luxury is Lincoln’s unique approach to ensure impeccable service is consistent with our outstanding products for the ultimate client experience,” says Frick. View full article

Chevrolet already has a unique option for picking up a new vehicle. For an additional $990 on top of a the price of a new Corvette, you can pick it up at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY. Chevrolet thought that wasn't enough and announced yesterday of another delivery program. The new program will allow a customer to pick up their new Chevrolet at the Daytona International Speedway and drive their new vehicle on the track. The program also includes a special memento of the event, and documentation saying the vehicle was picked up here. Chevrolet has a dedicated delivery center that will be on the infield near victory lane. “Beyond the vehicle, we are determined to deliver exceptional service through our dealers and unique experiences that only Chevrolet can offer, like driving your first miles in your new vehicle at the famed Daytona International Speedway,” said said Alan Batey, president of GM North America in a statement. Pricing for this program hasn't been announced. Chevrolet says 2017 model year vehicles will be eligible for the program although it isn't clear what vehicles can take part. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 TAKE A SPIN IN YOUR NEW CHEVY AT DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Have you ever wondered what it is like to drive on the track at the famed Daytona International Speedway? If you buy a new Chevrolet, your dealer will be able to offer you that opportunity. Chevrolet and DIS today announced an exclusive delivery experience at the Speedway. This extra cost option will be available later this year through U.S. Chevrolet dealers on select new vehicle orders. While details are still being finalized, customers who order the option can expect: A tour of Daytona International Speedway An on-track driving experience A keepsake to commemorate the experience Authentication that the vehicle was delivered and driven at the Speedway “Chevrolet is committed to offering our customers the best overall vehicle ownership experience possible – starting with the most technologically advanced and most dynamic vehicles in the brands history,” said Alan Batey, president of General Motors North America and leader of Global Chevrolet. “Beyond the vehicle, we are determined to deliver exceptional service through our dealers and unique experiences that only Chevrolet can offer, like driving your first miles in your new vehicle at the famed Daytona International Speedway.” The Chevrolet Delivery Center at DIS will be located in the infield adjacent to Gatorade Victory Lane and will have the familiar appearance of a neighborhood Chevrolet dealership. Customers will choose the option to have their vehicle delivered at DIS during the ordering process. Pricing will be available at a later date. “The Chevrolet Delivery Center is the type of elevated experience that guests visiting Daytona International Speedway come to expect,” Daytona International Speedway president Joie Chitwood III said. “This new offering complements the enhancements already made to the ‘World Center of Racing’ through the $400 million DAYTONA Rising redevelopment project. We’re looking forward to witnessing that first delivery later this year.” Chevrolet already offers Corvette customers the option to have their vehicle delivered at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Ky. The Museum Delivery option includes a private tour of the GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant, home of the Corvette, and the National Corvette Museum. The owner then takes delivery of their new Corvette from the museum showroom, where their own car is on display. The delivery process includes a personalized demonstration of their Corvette’s features, broadcast around the world via live webcam 24 hours a day. The Corvette Museum Delivery option is $990. DAYTONA Rising Chevrolet is a Founding Partner at DIS as part of its DAYTONA Rising redevelopment project. The historic $400 million DAYTONA Rising project, encompassing the Speedway’s nearly one-mile long frontstretch, recently debuted during the Rolex 24 At Daytona where Chevrolet’s Corvette Racing team took first and second in the GT Le Mans (GTLM) Class. DAYTONA Rising has transformed DIS into the world’s first motorsports stadium, with premium amenities and attractions. The multi-year agreement provides Chevrolet with naming rights for one of five fan injectors. The massive, new and redesigned entry includes more than 20,000 square feet of Chevrolet new vehicle displays and a fan engagement experience that vertically spans three concourse levels. Additionally, Chevrolet is an official partner of “The Great American Race,” the DAYTONA 500®, and will receive Official Pace Car rights in select years beginning in 2017. “Chevrolet’s commitment to racing originated more than a century ago with Louis Chevrolet and remains strong today as we solidify our presence at the ‘World Center of Racing’ by partnering with International Speedway Corporation, Daytona International Speedway and the DAYTONA Rising project,” Batey said. View full article

If you have wanted the Alfa Romeo 4C, but without a roof, then we have some good news for you. In August, Alfa Romeo dealers will be selling the 4C Spider starting August with a pricetag of $65,495* (includes $1,495 destination charge). For those keeping track of 4C pricing, the Spider is about $10,000 higher than the coupe. “Spiders have always been at the very core of the ‘Great Alfa Romeos,’ and our all-new 4C Spider builds on the brand’s motorsport and technology heritage for an open-air experience that is pure driving exhilaration, “From its track-proven 1750 turbocharged engine, to its hand-laid carbon fiber monocoque chassis, the 4C Spider takes the innovation and ingenuity of the 4C and delivers an open-air experience without sacrificing any of its supercar-level performance and capability,” said Reid Bigland, Head of Alfa Romeo North America. The 4C Spider gets the same turbocharged and direct-injected 1.7L four-cylinder with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This comes paired with a six-speed dual clutch transmission. Weight-wise, the Spider weighs about 20 pounds more than the 4C Spider (2,487 lbs for the Spider vs. 2,467 for the Coupe). Source: Alfa Romeo Press Release is on Page 2 All-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Delivers Race-inspired Performance, Advanced Technologies, Seductive Italian Style, and Now an Even More Exhilarating Driving Experience With Open-air Freedom All-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s open-air performance cockpit and mid-engine proportions draw from more than 100 years of groundbreaking and functional Italian design Unique carbon fiber windshield frame and available carbon fiber “halo” highlight 4C Spider’s ultralight carbon fiber monocoque and aluminum chassis structures, which enable an incredible power-to-weight ratio and supercar-level performance Innovative and unique technological solutions: all-aluminum 1750 direct-injection, intercooled, advanced turbocharged engine with dual variable-valve timing paired to the blistering fast Alfa TCT (twin-clutch transmission) and Alfa DNA selector with four adjustable drive modes All-new available Akrapovi? dual-mode exhaust system features dual, center-mounted tips with carbon fiber surround and signature Alfa resonant sound Handcrafted in Modena, Italy, Alfa Romeo 4C Spider combines two excellences – the performance engineering of Alfa Romeo and the craftsmanship of Maserati manufacturing All-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider arrives at U.S. and Canadian dealerships this summer starting at $63,900 MSRP June 12, 2015 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Adding to the Alfa Romeo brand’s legendary racing history and the exciting experience of open-air motoring, the all-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider debuts with panoramic views complemented with a signature Alfa exhaust note, plus the essential sportiness of the award-winning 4C – handcrafted in Modena, Italy; groundbreaking and seductive Italian style; state-of-the-art Formula 1 inspired carbon fiber monocoque chassis that enables an incredible power-to-weight ratio; advanced technologies, including the all-aluminum 1750 turbocharged and intercooled engine with direct-injection and variable-valve timing that enable supercar-level performance. “Spiders have always been at the very core of the ‘Great Alfa Romeos,’ and our all-new 4C Spider builds on the brand’s motorsport and technology heritage for an open-air experience that is pure driving exhilaration,” said Reid Bigland, Head of Alfa Romeo North America. “From its track-proven 1750 turbocharged engine, to its hand-laid carbon fiber monocoque chassis, the 4C Spider takes the innovation and ingenuity of the 4C and delivers an open-air experience without sacrificing any of its supercar-level performance and capability.” The 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider arrives at U.S. and Canadian dealerships this summer with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $63,900 (excluding $1,595 destination). “4C” and the Legacy of Alfa RomeoThe Alfa Romeo 4C Spider name recalls the brand’s great sporting tradition. The acronyms 8C and 6C in the 1930s and 1940s distinguished racing and road cars fitted with powerful eight- and six-cylinder engines. Like the award-winning 4C, the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider model’s designation is a return to “the great Alfa Romeos” and continues this tradition with the innovative all-aluminum 1750 turbocharged, intercooled, direct injection, four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 136 horsepower per liter. With seating for two, panoramic views and the soundtrack of an Italian performance-tuned engine and exhaust, Spiders are among the most exhilarating experiences in motoring – and represent the very core of Alfa Romeo’s DNA and heritage. The 4C Spider draws from a bloodline that includes some of the most purpose-built performance models, which illustrate lightness and efficiency with undeniable Alfa Romeo style – the aluminum-bodied 8C 2900 B Touring (1938); the 1900 C52 “Flying Saucer” (1952), which could exceed 140 mph (230 kph); and most notably the legendary 33 Stradale (1967), with its mid-engine and magnesium alloy and steel tube chassis “clothed” by groundbreaking styling, which is functional and distinctly Italian. And now it’s the 4C Spider’s turn to deliver the driving thrill, performance and unforgettable emotion that only an Alfa Romeo Spider provokes. Groundbreaking and seductive Italian style Continuing the groundbreaking theme of technology, performance and Italian style, the all-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider builds upon the brand’s journey, which was embarked upon with the 8C Competizione (2008), 8C Spider (2009), 4C (2015), and most recently, the 4C Spider Concept, which debuted at the 84th International Geneva Motor Show. Inspired by the 33 Stradale, the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider transcends this legendary racecar’s mid-engine body forms and follows its purposeful and lightweight performance tradition with sheet-molded compound (SMC) composite panels forming its seductive Italian design, and “clothing” its state-of-the-art carbon fiber monocoque chassis and all-aluminum 1750 turbocharged, direct-injected engine. Covering the “beating heart” of this Italian supercar is a deck lid with three functional heat extractors and an aerodynamically tuned spoiler. And it’s from the 4C Spider’s “beating heart” where every other design element starts: two muscular forms straddle the rear hood and elevate the body above the cockpit’s beltline for visual strength and foundation for the black or available carbon fiber “halo” (late availability). The rear fascia and round rear LED illuminated tail lamps blend into the muscular rear wings for a powerful stance, while stylistically incorporating large functional air intakes to cool the engine. Below, dual exhausts are mounted at the corners and highlight the 4C Spider’s supercar stance. Inspired by the 4C Spider Concept, an all-new Akrapovi? dual-mode center-mounted performance exhaust system will be available on the 4C Spider (late availability). On each side of the all-new 4C Spider, the sculpted air intakes spring a muscular and dynamic form that lead elegantly into the headlamps. Highlighting its exotic monocoque is a carbon fiber windshield frame, which promotes strength and lightness, while providing the attachment points for the removable, stowable cloth roof, or available exposed carbon fiber hardtop (late availability). Leading from the 4C Spider’s windshield and down the hood are two muscular hood forms, which naturally conclude at the signature Alfa Romeo shield-shaped grille and emblem. Together with the two side air intakes designed in the front fascia, the 4C Spider forms the famous “Trilobo” within which the iconic logo is placed – and a significant facet of Alfa Romeo’s distinctive design. Performance-focused cockpitThe all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s cockpit is inspired from racing; purpose built with only the essential driving components stylistically integrated. The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider features two composite-framed sport seats with standard leather and an exposed carbon fiber monocoque that exemplifies its race-inspired technologies. Furthermore, a driver-oriented cockpit with flat-bottom, leather performance steering wheel with paddle-shifters and aluminum pedals speak to the brand’s racing spirit. For an upscale look, the fully wrapped premium-leather interior with accent stitching is standard on the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider. For an added touch of exclusivity and technology, unique carbon fiber vent surrounds and other carbon fiber trim pieces are available as part of a new Carbon Fiber Trim Package. Highlighting the use of advanced technology is a 7-inch full-color driver information display (DID) cluster, which displays vehicle information through high-impact graphics to keep the driver focused on the road, or track, ahead. New to the Alfa Romeo 4C lineup is the addition of an Alpine premium audio system. Designed for audiophiles, this new head unit enables the 4C Spider to offer its passengers premium sound quality and multiple connectivity and media options, including handsfree Bluetooth phone, Bluetooth streaming, USB port, iPod interface and CD/MP3 capabilities. In addition, the Alpine radio provides access to HD radio and SiriusXM Radio for high-definition broadcast audio. A vivid array of colors, materials and design details Adding to the excitement of owning an Alfa Romeo are the personalization options that each client can select. Seven exterior colors are available for the 4C Spider, and include: Rosso Alfa (Red), Black, White, Basalt Gray Metallic, Rosso Competizione Tri-coat (Red), Madreperla White Tri-coat and all-new Giallo Prototipo (Yellow). Complementing the 4C Spider’s exterior are six interior combinations, which include two seat material choices: Black leather with Red accent stitching, Red leather with Black accent stitching, new Black leather with Giallo accent stitching, and exclusive to the Track Package – Black racing leather seats with microfiber inserts and Red or Yellow accent stitching. For a bespoke look, and all new to the 4C model lineup, a contrasting Tobacco leather seat accompanied with a Black leather Interior accented with Tobacco stitching will be offered (late availability). With the arrival of the 4C Spider are six wheel choices, including four all-new wheel designs, which include staggered fitting 17 x 7.0-inch (front) and 18 x 8.0-inch (rear) alloy wheels in Silver or Dark Gray finish. For added style and performance, larger 18 x 7.0-inch (front) and wider 19 x 8.5-inch (rear) forged wheels in Silver or Dark Gray finish are also available. Like the 4C, the signature five-hole design wheels in 18 x 7.0-inch (front) and 19 x 8.5-inch (rear) in Silver or Dark Gray are also available. Completing the look are four brake caliper color choices, including Silver (standard) or available Red, Yellow, or Black. Mid-engine layout with a unique set of technological solutionsThanks to its mid-engine layout, advanced technology and compact size, the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider demonstrates its precision, agility and performance credentials with a top speed of 160 miles per hour (mph), 0-to-60 mph in 4.1 seconds, 1.1 g of lateral acceleration and 1.25 g of maximum braking deceleration. Delivering the ultra-lightweight architecture needed for maximum performance and dynamic efficiency, Alfa Romeo engineers looked to Formula 1 and only the most advanced supercars for state-of-the-art materials. The result is a monocoque chassis made entirely of unidirectional, “pre-preg” carbon fiber layers that are hand-laid for extraordinary stiffness and strength. At 236 pounds, the highly exotic carbon fiber monocoque chassis delivers a material performance that is three-times stronger and seven-times lighter than steel. Completing the competition-grade architecture are front- and rear-chassis structures and an engine-mounting frame made from lightweight aluminum. Thanks to the monocoque’s inherent rigidity, Alfa Romeo engineers were able to minimize structural differences between the 4C Spider and 4C, resulting in a weight of only 2,487 pounds – an increase of only 22 pounds over the 4C. For a technical look, header strength and low center of gravity, the 4C Spider features a unidirectional carbon fiber windshield frame that is adhered and bolted to the monocoque chassis. In addition, a specially contoured aluminum roll bar (underneath the Black or carbon fiber “halo”) provides mounting points for the new rear deck lid, while unique upper body brackets and a high-strength steel engine compartment cross beam maximize torsional rigidity. Alfa Romeo engineers continued the use of state-of-the-art materials by creating the bodywork entirely of sheet-molded compound (SMC), a low-density, high-strength composite material that is 20 percent lighter and dimensionally more rigid than steel. Engineers even optimized the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s windshield and side windows by using 10 percent thinner glass to reduce weight by up to 15 percent. Finally, two sport seats feature a carbon fiber and fiberglass reinforced-composite structure to deliver the strength and seating position needed for performance driving. The heart and soul — the all-aluminum 1750 turbocharged engine with direct injection The engine is the “beating heart” of any Alfa Romeo, and for the all-new 4C Spider, it beats to an innovative, all-aluminum 1750 turbocharged and intercooled engine with dual (intake and exhaust) continuous variable-valve timing that delivers 237 horsepower – or an impressive 136 horsepower per liter. To ensure exceptional performance and drivability on the racetrack or city streets, the 1750 turbocharged engine features cutting-edge technologies. High-pressure direct-injection (2,900 psi / 200 bar) with multi-hole fuel injectors provide a more even spray. To increase performance, while reducing oil consumption and emissions, the cylinder head inlet ducts have an optimized design, while cylinder liners are made from thin cast-iron. The addition of an electric thermostat helps the 1750 turbo engine reduce warm-up times and tailpipe emissions. Minimizing vibration at higher engine speeds, the engine’s crankshaft features eight counterweights. Last, intake and exhaust systems are optimized for Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s mid-engine layout. A new generation turbocharger features a pulse-converter exhaust manifold to exploit pressure waves and boost torque at low-engine speeds. A wastegate valve adjusts turbo pressure and improves the engine’s efficiency. Advanced turbo technology enables the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider to maximize torque at low engine speeds and deliver more response to driver input by increasing combustion efficiency and turbine speed, all while eliminating turbo lag. As a result, torque delivery is instantaneous, with a peak of 258 lb.-ft. (350 N•m); 80 percent of which is available at only 1,700 rpm. Three available exhaust systems, including an all-new Akrapovi? dual-mode systemFrom the 4C Spider Concept to production, the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider will offer its most hardcore motorsport enthusiasts an all-new Akrapovi? dual-mode exhaust system with Alfa Romeo’s signature resonant sound (late availability). Developed in cooperation with the racing exhaust experts at Akrapovi?, this beautifully crafted titanium system consists of two center-mounted tailpipes, computer-optimized asymmetrical mufflers with a dual-mode exhaust valve system and link pipe with resonator to eliminate in-cabin droning. For a technical look that emphasizes 4C Spider’s lightweight design, a carbon fiber bezel surrounds the Akrapovi? center-mounted exhaust tips. Like the 4C, the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider will also offer the standard exhaust system and a racing exhaust system. Similar in design, the optional racing exhaust removes the muffler, and instead integrates a uniquely designed asymmetric Y-shape system after the catalyst. For added style, the racing exhaust system features integrated dual concentric exhaust tips. Advanced technological solutions: Alfa TCT twin-clutch and Alfa DNA selector technologies further make the 4C Spider an extension of the driver Teamed to the all-aluminum 1750 turbocharged engine is a paddle-shifting Alfa TCT (twin-clutch transmission) tuned specifically for the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider. With its uniquely calibrated software that adjusts with the Alfa DNA selector system, the Alfa TCT’s gearshifts are designed to become most aggressive in the Dynamic and Race modes. Further making this Alfa Romeo an extension of the driver are rev-matching paddle shifts and pre\cise gear changes as quick as 130 milliseconds at full throttle. For driving convenience in Dynamic, Natural or All-weather modes, the Alfa Romeo TCT gearbox can utilize an “auto” mode. Instantaneously optimizing the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s level of performance is the brand’s innovative Alfa DNA selector. With four modes, including “Race” mode, the Alfa DNA selector can optimize the engine, transmission, Alfa Electronic Q2 differential and electronic stability control (ESC) calibrations to the levels needed by the driver. With a touch of the Alfa DNA selector, the driving dynamics of the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider can be changed to (in order of increasing capability):All-weather – designed to ensure maximum control in adverse weather conditions and enables gentler accelerator input and special engine and brake control logic to match road speed and prevent skidding Natural – enables grand touring comfort and smooth drivability for the Alfa TCT gearboxDynamic – enables improved driving performance via a more aggressive powertrain calibration and less intrusive ESC setting Race – available while in Dynamic mode, Race mode is the most extreme performance mode, putting the driver in total control of the car under race conditions. ESC and anti-slip regulation (ASR) are deactivated to allow the driver to control traction through the accelerator pedal. The Alfa Electronic Q2 differential control system remains active for fast exits out of corners or bendsIn Race mode, launch control can be activated, allowing the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider to deliver 0-to-60 mph acceleration blasts as low as 4.1-seconds as soon as the driver releases the brake Maximum road-holding suspensionThe all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider adopts race-derived solutions to ensure maximum agility and road holding performance. The front suspension is comprised of a “superimposed” double wishbone configuration for direct and unfiltered feedback. At the rear, an advanced MacPherson suspension ensures superb road-holding attributes – even in the most extreme of maneuvers. Both front and rear suspensions are made from aluminum and high-strength steel. For the North American market, the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is designed with stiffer springs, larger front- and rear-sway bars, and re-tuned shock absorbers. Track Package For maximum handling performance, the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is available with the Track Package. This package includes high-performance shock absorbers with larger front- and rear-sway bars, with available Pirelli P-Zero “AR Racing” tires; performance flat-bottom steering wheel with microfiber inserts; carbon fiber exterior mirrors and carbon fiber gauge cluster bezel, plus the availability of Black leather performance seats with microfiber inserts and Red or Yellow accent stitching. Enthusiast-desired “manual” steeringIn line with the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s ultra-lightweight design and desire for maximum agility and road feel, the conventional power steering system is removed altogether. Through a manual steering system and 15.7:1 quick-ratio steering, the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider provides the driver with maximum feel-of-the-road. Furthermore, an appropriate steering-wheel load is maintained thanks to the low overall weight of the car. Powerful stopping power – up to 1.25 g of braking deceleration The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s brake system is designed for track use, where decisive braking, even under the most intensive conditions, is required. To deliver maximum stopping power and 1.25 g of braking deceleration for 60-0 in under 100 feet, the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is equipped with four self-ventilating perforated discs and Brembo four-piston aluminum calipers at the front axle. Excellence handcrafted in Modena, ItalyThe Alfa Romeo 4C Spider combines two excellences – the racing and performance know how of Alfa Romeo engineering, plus the craftsmanship and manufacturing expertise of Maserati. The very best technical and industrial expertise of the Alfa Romeo and Maserati brands were used to develop the 4C and all-new 4C Spider. Teamwork between the two brands included the integration of the Alfa Romeo Centro Stile with the well-known craftsmanship of the Maserati brand’s Modena workshop. In addition, the Alfa Romeo 4C and 4C Spider are boosted by the technological contributions of Italian suppliers, who are international leaders in manufacturing high-performance components. This is a distinguishing trait of Alfa Romeo, a brand with a century of history that continues to be one of the most famous and popular ambassadors of Italian products around the world. View full article

Speaking at the annual shareholders meeting in Mountain View, California, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said the company will begin rolling out their second model, the Model X, in the next three to four months. The model which was first shown in 2012 and was supposed to start production in 2014, has been hit with a number of delays and problems for various aspects. Musk said engineers are working on a number of parts of the Model X including the Falcon Wing doors just right before production models begin rolling off the line. “The Model X will be a better SUV than the Model S is a sedan,” said Musk. Source: Bloomberg View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 22, 2013 Jeep's long-standing nightmare is over. Automotive News is reporting that deliveries of the Cherokee will be heading off to dealers within the next ten days. Chrysler is in the process of installing new software smooth out how the engine, nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system interact. After the new software is installed, car haulers are loaded up and sent out. The trucks drop the Cherokees are taken to a test facality where they are unloaded and driven on a test track to see if the software has worked. From there, Cherokees are either sent to a lot where they await being shipped or to another lot where they will get additional tuning. Now this sounds somewhat surreal and unusual. But the Cherokee is an important vehicle and Chrysler wants to make sure the vehicle has all of its bugs fixed before it arrives at a dealer. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article