Click here for Complete Concept Slide Show

DETROIT, Jan. 15, 2013 – Ford today unveiled the Ford Atlas Concept to showcase the design, capability, fuel efficiency and smart technologies that will define future pickup trucks.

"The Ford Atlas Concept previews the innovations that will transform what people expect from their pickup," said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. "With 36 years as America's best-selling pickup, we are absolutely committed to setting the agenda in the truck market."

Click here for Complete Concept Slide Show

Design with purpose

The Ford Atlas Concept is inspired by decades of listening to customers at the places they work and play. The result is a purpose-driven design with prominent wheel arches, a wide stance and chiseled grille – all to reinforce its functional Built Ford Tough® image.

"We wanted the concept to reflect how Ford trucks help customers in both their worlds – professionally and personally," said J Mays, Ford group vice president and chief creative officer.

"Every surface and feature in the vehicle has been crafted for purpose and capability while retaining an unmistakable Built Ford Tough look."

Designers enhanced truck functionality, while creating new advanced features. For example, multiple tie-down points are integrated within the cargo box walls and load floor, along with 110-volt electrical outlets in the cargo box to charge power tools. An integrated roof carrying system and hidden extendable ramps give the truck unique functionality for a variety of jobs.

The interior is themed with structural styling cues and features the latest thinking in comfort, utility and refinement. Innovative, thin, lightweight seating in comfortable leather allows for extra legroom for rear passengers – along with integrated storage for smaller items. "Floating" instrument pods and glove-friendly buttons and controls keep the interior functional and ruggedly stylish.

Click here for Complete Concept Slide Show

Leading fuel efficiency

The Ford Atlas Concept features a next-generation EcoBoost® powertrain, which introduces truck-enhanced Auto Start-Stop engine shutoff technology. Auto Start-Stop shuts off the engine when stopped in traffic to save fuel – and smartly suspends the feature when the truck knows it is towing.

EcoBoost engines use gasoline direct injection and turbocharging to deliver fuel-economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger displacement engines. More than 500,000 EcoBoost engines have been sold globally, including 250,000 in the Ford F-150.

The Ford Atlas Concept goes further to save fuel through a combination of active aerodynamic elements that reduce wind resistance. They include:

• Active Grille Shutters: Automatic shutters behind the grille stay open when extra engine cooling is needed, such as during low-speed stop-and-go driving or while working in hot weather. The shutters automatically close to improve aerodynamics when cruising on the highway at steady speeds
• Active Wheel Shutters: Automatic shutters in the wheels are hidden to improve style at rest and low speeds, but automatically close at highway speeds to improve aerodynamics. Self-charging batteries use energy from the wheels' motion to power the shutters
• Drop-Down Front Air Dam: A drop-down front wind spoiler lowers at highway speeds to improve underbody airflow. The air dam is raised at low speeds to improve ground clearance – helpful for off-roading
• Power Running Boards: Auto-deploying running boards help passengers enter the truck at rest and tuck up against the truck when it is moving to improve aerodynamics and ground clearance

The combination of these fuel-saving features saves more than 2 mpg on the highway without diminishing towing or hauling capability.

Work and play smarter, not harder

Ford Atlas Concept is a rolling showcase of features that improve capability, durability and productivity to meet the diverse needs of pickup truck owners. Features include:

• Dual-Purpose Tailgate Step and Cargo Cradle: The acclaimed Ford Tailgate Step goes a step further by adding the ability to also act as a cargo cradle – lifting and holding extra-long cargo items above the truck and freeing valuable bed space
  
  
• Trailer Backup Assist: This segment-first innovation allows drivers to back a trailer with the twist of a knob. Ford research shows that backing a trailer is often the most intimidating task a truck customer can face
• Dynamic Hitch Assist: Hitching a trailer can be time consuming and difficult. Dynamic Hitch Assist helps precisely line up the truck's hitch with the trailer coupling, eliminating maneuvering guesswork by showing visual cues in the truck's center display screen
• 360-Degree Point-of-View Camera: A Ford truck first, the system gives a bird's-eye view of the truck to help position the vehicle in tight places or when there are obstacles near the truck – such as on a busy job site or grocery store parking lot
• LED Headlamps and Taillamps: Advanced LED lighting offers better road illumination than conventional halogen or HID lights and lasts longer. LED lamps also offer nearinstant response, giving valuable extra warning time for following traffic
• LED Cargo Box and Side Mirror Lighting: Advanced, powerful yet efficient LED lighting brightly lights the cargo box and job site after the sun goes down with minimal battery drain compared to standard headlights or plug-in lights
• Hidden Cargo Ramps: Lightweight, durable loading ramps stowed below the cargo box can be quickly removed and set up to assist with loading wheeled items into the bed – from landscaping equipment to dirt bikes

# # #

Click here for Complete Concept Slide Show

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 172,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.

Contacts:

Mike Levine 313.323.6854 mlevine5@ford.com

Said Deep 313.594.0942 sdeep@ford.com

Check out Autotrucktoys.com line of Ford Truck products.

For over 4 decades EGR Automotive global organization has been a privately-owned progressive innovative manufacturer of OEM and aftermarket accessories. EGR develops for some of the world's leading automotive companies such as Ford, Chrysler and GM. Along with Automotive products the EGR Group also specializes in Building and the "point-of-purchase" retail display sector.

The cornerstone of the EGR business is the acrylic and metal product ranges covering key market segments like:

• Headlight and Hood protectors
• Weather Visors
• Fender Flares
• Tonneau Covers, Hard Lids and Canopies
• Nudge Bars, Bull Bars
• European Compliant Integrated Frontal Protection Systems
• Chrome Accessories

Having locations in Ontario California, EGR is able to manufacturer over 80% of its automotive products in the USA. With distribution points though out the world, EGR has a huge market place which gives them the ability to employ over a 1000 people.  For more about EGR

EGR is a true believer in the benefits of technology and innovation. By consistently adopting, developing and then perfecting these technologies, EGR has created a proprietary technology system that forms a flexible and highly efficient manufacturing operation.  For more about EGR click here to watch their EGR North American Corporat Video.

Check out the selection of EGR products that AutoTruckToys.com has to offer.

Well AutoTruckToys.com has a solution that will nix these issues once and for all.  Husky Liners™ are more durable and functional than your average floor mat. Husky Liners™ are constructed from a proprietary rubber and vinyl blend that will never crack, fade, or break under any condition.

Unlike the traditional fabric liners the cleaning up is quick and simple as the Husky Liners™ can be sprayed with water and resists corrosion from most chemicals including oil, gasoline, and battery acid.

Husky Liners™ are constructed from a proprietary blend of durable rubber and vinyl which prevents mud, dirt, and liquids from reaching expensive carpet.  Molded-in tread pattern provides grip and will never crack, fade, or break under any condition.

Keep your car's interior and carpet safe year round with a set of durable Husky Liners™. Application-specific and custom molded for a perfect fit, these floor liners provide the ultimate in floor board protection.

Take a look at our wide selection of Husky Liners™ at AutoTruckToys.com.

Revel Enterprises, Inc. recognizes that "Husky Liners™ and various model names are registered trademarks of Winfield Consumer Products, Inc.

Named 2012 Truck of the Year by MotorTrend magazine, Ford F-150 leads the pack with the highest factory tow rating out of all the full size trucks on the market today. Ten trim levels, four engine choices, three cab sizes, and three bed sizes, let the consumer customize this truck in practically every way. With choices that range from the basic work truck to a luxuriously comfortable, travel- friendly vehicle, this truck can be designed to fit almost any budget.

Falling just below Ford’s F-150 is the Ram 1500. Named one of U.S. News and World Report’s 2012 Best Cars for the Money, the Ram 1500 hits the charts by offering a powerful Hemi V8 engine and a five ton towing capacity. Ram also offers a smoother ride through the use of a solid-axle rear suspension with coil springs in place of the traditional leaf springs. The interior of the Ram 1500 is more spacious and gives a more upscale look and feel. Even in the lower trim levels the Ram interior stands out over the Ford and Chevy, with the top-of-the-line Laramie Longhorn trim feeling almost as high class as a luxury car.

Next on the list of contenders is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 as well as its twin, the GMC Sierra 1500. Reviewers say one of GM’s biggest shortcomings is the dated appearance and performance of the Silverado and Sierra. Ford and Ram have been redesigned more recently giving them a better advantage as far as interior looks and more powerful engines. Still, the Silverado and Sierra are towing machines, capable of towing high capacities like the Ford and Ram. GM is also offering a hybrid model which claims to get approximately 20 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Overall, GM still produces a great quality truck, even with its lack of recent redesign. Many reviewers say the smooth ride and lower wind noise make this a great truck for travel or everyday use.

In conclusion, 2012 has been a great year for full-size trucks, each having their own advantages and disadvantages. Many people are brand loyal and will choose a truck despite what reviews say, but no matter what truck a buyer chooses, they are guaranteed a powerful truck. With superb towing capabilities, comfortable interior, and many body style choices, the 2012 line up has been anything but disappointing.

This change will finally be made because, for the first time, the only name to appear on the new models will be Ram. No badges on these vehicles will feature the Dodge name.

Since becoming a separate division, the sales for Ram trucks and Ram truck accessories has steadily increased due to the improved focus by engineers and others involved in the design process. Dodge had become over saturated through the years with the production of other vehicles such as the Challenger, Charger, Durango, and the rest of the Dodge lineup. The widespread focus in turn weakened the presence of the trucks and commercial lines, especially when competing with other automotive giants such as Ford and Chevrolet. With Ram being able to solely target the pick-ups, chassis-cabs, and commercial style minivans, positive impact on and from the consumer market is obvious.

With new registration coding and improved focus to make Ram more individualized in the automotive industry, we will soon see what changes are in store. It has been promised that the Ram half-ton and heavy-duty's DNA will basically remain the same. As far as other changes in the newest lineup, we can only wait to see what will evolve. The future for Ram is very promising, not only for the designers and planners, but for the consumers as well.

The exterior of your vehicle will receive the biggest portion of the winter weather, so taking steps to protect it is most important. If you are a truck driver, a tonneau cover is a priceless accessory to have during the sleet, snow, and rain of the season. This protects your truck bed and your cargo from water damage and other elements. Mud flaps are another useful accessory that protect your vehicles body panels. These splash guards are great for blocking the salt, snow, and rain that come off of your tires. When the road gets slick, it makes it tough to make the step up into your vehicle’s cab. A set of nerf bars or running boards will solve this problem. With a lower step, you don’t have to worry about losing your footing while entering or exiting your vehicle.

Although your interior is closed off from the winter weather most of the time, there are still crucial places that need to be protected. A set of floor mats is perhaps the easiest and cheapest accessory for your vehicle, yet makes the most difference. These mats will catch whatever you can bring into the cab with you. Your carpet will stay clean and protected and with so many different styles of mats available, they add a custom touch to your interior. On the same note, seat covers should be next on your list. With the high price of replacing fabric or leather on your OEM seats, seat covers are an investment worth making.

The cold weather also has an impact on what is under your hood, and even makes starting your vehicle more difficult. A battery blanket electronically warms your car battery making it easier to start and even extends the life of your battery by preventing the loss of starting power due to cold temperatures. Speaking of starting, who really wants to tread out into the cold and start their car? A remote start system is the ultimate accessory for winter weather comfort. Simply press a button and your car will be warm and toasty when you are ready to drive it.

When winter comes knocking at your door, these accessories, along with regular maintenance will help you to be ready. With your vehicle prepared for what lies ahead, maybe you can even enjoy the snow, knowing that your vehicle is equipped for it.

Some technology for the Escape includes a hands-free power liftgate that is activated by motion technology, SYNC with MyFordTouch, an active park assist that helps with parallel parking, a sensor based Blind Spot Information System, and Curve Control which help to slow the vehicle when it is cornering too fast.

The Escape also offer unmatched fuel economy with its line of EcoBoost engines. Both the 2.0-liter and the 1.6-liter deliver better miles per gallon and save drivers money on fuel. The Escape’s new design also improved its aerodynamics by 10% which will also benefit its fuel economy.

The new rear seats on the Escape provide versatility and storage room without sacrificing comfort. With the touch of a button and the lift of a handle the rear seats fold flat and lock into position. An available two-position load floor also allows customer to choose between maximum luggage volume or a flat load floor.

When you need some accessories for your Escape be sure to check out our Ford Escape Accessories Store. You can also see the full press release for the new Escape here.

HID headlamps make their debut on the V6 and GT models, and provide some signature lighting for the Mustang. LED bars and ropes are also used to accentuate the front and rear of the car.

A new wheel lineup is always welcomed, and spans from the standard 17-inch wheels all the way up to available 19-inch wheels that will provide a more powerful appearance.

New seat trims are available for the interior including the leather-trimmed or cloth Recaro seats which are currently available only for the GT500 and Boss 302 models. Lateral bolsters are added to ensure that the driver has the support and comfort needed while racing on the track or driving on the highway.

Styling was not the only thing that got updated on the Mustang, Ford also added a barrage of new technology. A new six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission offers the driver a choice between driving in full automatic or manual with the push of a switch, which is also on an updated, more modern shifter.

A new 4.2-inch LCD screen allows customers to access valuable information about their Mustang while on the go. From fuel economy to vehicle performance, the options are nearly endless with the Track Apps feature, which delivers performance metrics for drivers right from the factory.

With a new Mustang on the way, you are sure to need a good supply of Ford Mustang Accessories. Lucky for you, AutoTruckToys has a huge selection of Mustang exterior accessories, Mustang interior accessories, Mustang performance accessories, and more. Stop by today and shop for your new Mustang.

If you are attending this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, you will have the privilege of seeing the special limited edition 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket. Based off of the production 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8, this special edition model features exclusive Stinger Yellow exterior as well as other Dodge Challenger accessories. A black grille surround, black body graphics with a newly developed Yellow Jacket logo, and 20”x 9” five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels with black painted pockets give the Yellow Jacket its unique appearance. Inside, the SRT8 leather seats feature an exclusive Stinger Yellow accent band with embroidered Yellow Jacket logo and silver accent stitching.

“The Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket adds another piece of performance car nostalgia to our rear-drive muscle coupe lineup in 2012,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – SRT Brand and Motorsports. “The Stinger Yellow paint and interior accents speak directly to the performance enthusiast who appreciates a memorable and collectible color that helps deliver even more excitement and exclusivity.”

Press Release

The new Trailblazer, with its body-on-frame towing capability, is based on the next generation Chevrolet Colorado already in production overseas. Even with the off-road capability, it’s still built to provide a smooth and comfortable ride for miles of city driving.

Some exterior features include a “body in-wheels out” design, made to deliver high approach and departure angles. A raised cowl, power dome, and higher-mounted dual projector headlamps provide a strong, purposeful appearance. A three-dimensional, dual-port grilles adds to this look as well.

On the inside the Trailblazer sports seating for up to seven, or you can collapse both rows of rear seats for extreme storage capability. Up front, is a dual cockpit design, with a flowing instrument panel and integrated center stack. USB and Bluetooth connectivity are also available on some models.

With no word yet on when (or if) the Trailblazer will come to the U.S. market, we will have to wait patiently as GM tests its next generation SUV in other markets.

Click here for the full press realease from General Motors.

Once again American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) has created a lot of buzz at SEMA this year with the introduction of their Brute Double Cab Conversion for the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. Almost a decade after the Brute pickup truck conversion first debuted in 2002, AEV continues to set the bar high.

Unlike the JK-8 conversion kit available from Mopar, the Double Cab Brute features four doors with a separate pickup truck bed. Based off of a four-door JK Wrangler Unlimited, AEV stretched the chassis 23” to bring the wheel base to 139”. An increase of 30” to the overall length of 216” is achieved with a small frame extension at the rear to accommodate the pickup bed. With 44” between the wheel wells, the larger Brute features inside bed dimensions of 61” x 60”, offering a good amount of cargo space for a highly capable off-road vehicle.

This particular Double Cab Brute is also outfitted with an abundance of Jeep Wrangler accessories from AEV as well as other aftermarket manufacturers. Possibly the most impressive improvement is the addition of a 6.4L Hemi V8 producing 475 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque.

Features:

• AEV Heat Reduction Hood
• AEV Premium Front Bumper
• AEV Front Skid Plate
• AEV Winch Mount
• AEV Double Cab Rear Bumper
• AEV Cordura Seat Covers
• AEV 4.5” DualSport RS Suspension
• AEV Savegre Wheels – Argent
• AEV Hemi Conversion Kit
• Chrysler 6.4L VVT Hemi, WA580 Transmission, 241OR Transfer Case
• 475 HP, 475 LB-FT of Torque
• Warn 9.5ti Winch
• IPF 900XDS Off-Road Lights
• Interco Super Swamper IROK 37x12.50R17 Tires
• Dynatrac ProRock 44, High Ground Clearance Front Axle Assembly
• Dynatrac Heavy-Duty Front Ball Joint Assemblies for Jeep JK
• Dynatrac ProRock 60, High Ground Clearance Rear Axle Assembly
• 4.56 Gear Ratio
• Cored Composite Pickup Bed
• 61”L x 60”W Bed
• Steel Cab Closeout
• Custom Hardtop Retains Freedom Panels
• Wheel Base: 139”
• Overall Length: 216”

AEV will offer the Brute Double Cab as a turn-key vehicle with an expected production release by mid 2012. The first orders will be offered exclusively to current AEV vehicle owners and AEV authorized dealers with orders opening to the public as production ramps up.

As America’s most popular sport’s car, there are many Camaro accessories and parts on the market. Along with the many aftermarket manufacturers that displayed accessories on different models of Camaros, Chevrolet brought in its own family of custom Camaros and concepts, illustrating a few of the many customization options available.

Perhaps the most popular Camaro at the SEMA show, is Hot Wheels model. This custom show car is a full-scale interpretation that comes from the original “Custom Camaro” model that was one of the 16 original Hot Wheels toys released in 1968.

Other models introduced at the SEMA show include the COPO Camaro, Camaro Red Zone, Camaro Synergy Series Concept, Camaro 1LE Concept, and the Camaro ZL1 Carbon Concept.

 Be sure and check out AutoTruckToys’ huge selection of Chevrolet Camaro Accessories.

If you haven’t already noticed, you can no longer find a Dodge Ram or a Dodge Dakota. This is due to Chrysler deciding that it would be in the best interest of the Dodge line-up to separate the Ram trucks from the Dodge cars and SUVs. The goal of the brand split is to allow Ram Trucks continue with the tough and durable image while enabling the Dodge brand to develop a new, sportier identity.

Although the vehicles are the same, the logos and management of each vehicle line have changed. The familiar Ram’s Head sticks with the Ram trucks while Dodge has developed a new logo. The Ram Truck line now refers to the Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Ram 4500, Ram 5500, Ram Dakota, and Ram C/V.

What does this mean to the consumer? Other than having to visit two different websites to find information on the Ram 1500 and the Dodge Charger, it doesn’t really have much of an effect. Dodge dealers will continue to offer sales and support for Ram Trucks as they have in the past. Many people as well as manufacturers and retailers of Ram Truck accessories continue to refer to the Ram 1500 as a Dodge Ram 1500.

For more information on Ram Trucks and a huge selection of Ram Truck accessories, visit AutoTruckToys.

Some of the most popular pieces of chrome trim for your Dodge Ram are door handles. These Dodge Ram chrome door handles are available as replacements or as covers. The advantage of chrome replacement door handles is that they are brand new handles altogether and are a great replacement for broken or malfunctioning Dodge Ram door handles. Chrome door handle covers, on the other hand, install using pre-applied automotive-grade adhesive, and cover your existing door handles. These are great for dressing up and protecting your current Dodge Ram door handles.

Another great chrome accessory is a Dodge Ram chrome fuel door. Chrome fuel doors are also available as replacements or covers. Chrome replacement fuel doors are great for replacing an existing fuel door, or upgrading to a locking fuel door that will protect all the money that you put into your fuel tank. Dodge Ram Chrome fuel door covers bring a nice contrast to the monotony of your side panels, and help to protect your OEM fuel door from weather and debris.

Another great upgrade for your truck is Dodge Ram chrome mirror covers. These chrome mirror covers bring that extra shine to your current mirrors, while protecting them from weather and road debris at the same time. Available in a smooth style or a designer style, these are pieces of Dodge Ram chrome trim that you won’t be able to do without.

Whether your Ram is a show truck, or you just want to add a little flare to it, chrome trim is the right decision. With applications available for your Ram 1500, Ram 2500, or Ram 3500 for most year ranges, AutoTruckToys will have what your pickup needs.  Stop by our Dodge Ram chrome trim department today and pick some up for your truck.

This new model of pickup sports a few subtle changes to its exterior. The bedcaps and tailgate display the Mossy Oak Breakup Infinity camouflage pattern, and the Mossy Oak logo graphic has been placed on the rear quarter panels. The interior is also highlighted with the Break Up Infinity pattern on the center column and door panel inserts. The Mossy Oak logo is also embroidered on the primary headrests on the front and rear seats.

The Mossy Oak Edition is only available as a Ram 1500 4x4 Crew Cab model, based off of the Outdoorsman model that has been so popular. The truck will also come in a variety of colors including Black, Bright White, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl, Mineral Gray Metallic, Saddle Brown and Sagebrush monotone, or Black, Bright White and Deep Cherry Red Crystal two-tone, with Metallic Gray Metallic lower body.

AutoTruckToys has a wide selection of Dodge Ram Accessories that would compliment this new model Ram Truck, including plenty for the outdoor enthusiast.

Chevrolet foresees this car performing well in the U.S. market especially with customers who do mostly city driving, as it is affordable, maneuverable, and very fuel-efficient. In fact in a later press release Chevrolet announced that the Spark will also be available in an EV all-electric model.

The gas-version of the Spark contains a 1.2L four-cylinder engine rated at 83 horsepower with a five-speed manual or optional automatic transmission. More details about the Spark will be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show, so stay tuned for more info, and check out the full press release here.

Originally expected to account for 40% of F-150 truck sales, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is now projected to claim 45% of F-150 sales. According to The Wall Street Journal, the EcoBoost F-150 sales should total about 100,000 units for 2011. In a market that has been dominated by displacement for many years, the small power horse is proving its worth with 18 mpg in combined city and highway driving as opposed to 14 to 17 mpg for eight cylinder engines. Introduced to the F-150 line February, the 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine (part of Ford’s EcoBoost family of engines) is turbocharged and direct injected to produce 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque.

For Ford F-150 accessories visit AutoTruckToys.com.

At the heart of this new truck is a choice of two all-new Duramax turbo-diesel engines that provide a leading combination of performance and fuel economy. The 2.8-liter engine is rated at 180 horsepower and 346 lb.-ft. of torque, while the smaller 2.5-liter is rated at 150 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. The Colorado also comes with an available six-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.

Available single, extended, and crew cabs help to make this truck so versatile. With high and low stance configurations and two or four-wheel drive, there is nothing the Colorado can’t do. Added chrome accents for the higher-end packages also help to provide a premium appearance.

A redesigned instrument cluster, center stack, and trim bring that same premium look into the interior of the Colorado. Auxiliary power, auxiliary plugs, USB connectivity, and up to 30 storage locations also add a great deal of convenience to this pickup.

Check out the full press release for all the details on the 2012 Colorado.

With a refresh for the Mustang on the way for 2013, rumors of new information center apps have been spreading. Images of a dealer training poster showing screen shots from the information display of the upcoming model illustrate the new Gauge Mode and Track Apps.

Rumored to receive the same 4.2” LCD display as the Ford Raptor, the 2013 Mustang will provide the driver with a variety of data to help you keep an eye on performance. In Gauge Mode, owners will be able to view air / fuel ratio, cylinder head temp, and more. In addition to the Gauge Mode, the all new Track Apps keep track of 1/8 and 1/4 mile times as well as 0-60 and 0-100 mph times (at the track…of course).

[Source: StangTV.com]

As if the SVT Raptor wasn’t good enough, Ford has updated the 2012 models with a few aesthetic and functional features. Perhaps the most important upgrade for the new Baja beast is the addition of a Torsen front differential. This system significantly increases grip for the front end of the truck allowing it to pull itself over obstacles and up steep grades even when the traction is split between the front tires.

Keeping with the off-road ready theme, an all new class-exclusive off-road front camera system allows driver to see what is directly in front of the vehicle even if the view from the driver’s seat is block. Displayed on the 8” navigation screen, the system is designed for low-speed operation to help drivers navigate challenging off-road obstacles.

Giving the interior a fresh new look, a matte anodized blue interior accent package replaces the existing one and will be available with all paint colors except the new Race Red. The new accent package includes leather-trimmed seats and dash accents.

Completing the upgrades for the 2012 model, an all new bodyside graphic, similar to the hood graphic, gives the Raptor both a racing and off-road feel.

For the complete press release visit Ford Media.

While nothing is official yet, as the T/X Baja Series is still undergoing tests, it is set to be available on both the Access and Double Cab 4x4 models of Tacoma. The 4.0-liter V6 is engine is powering this truck with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. This package currently includes an electronically controlled locking rear differential, Active Traction Control, Hill-Start Assist Control, and Downhill Assist Control, and rolls on BF Goodrich T/A KO tires and bead-lock style off-road wheels in an exclusive Gun-Metal Gray finish. Toyota also increased the front ride height two inches, added a TRD Cat-back Exhaust, and gave the Tacoma some new graphics.

A front and rear suspension upgrade tops off the T/X Baja Series. This truck will also receive all of the same upgrades as the new Tacoma is getting, but no pricing has been released as of yet for the T/X Baja Tacoma. Check out the full press release here.

If you are an upscale male and are looking for a turbocharged network, then Velocity is your poison. Scheduled to air in late 2011, Velocity upgrades HD Theater’s car programming with diverse new original series and specials. Discovery’s upscale male lifestyle network will feature more than 400 premiere hours of new and returning series and specials showcasing the best of the automotive, sports and leisure, adventure, and travel genres. The HD Theater’s Inside West Coast Customs, Mecum Auto Auctions, Café Racer, and Chasing Classic Cars will be part of Velocity’s primetime lineup.

"Velocity continues Discovery's tradition of maximizing the value of each of its cable platforms. It is going to be a game changer when it officially joins our portfolio of U.S. networks later this year," said David Zaslav, President and CEO of Discovery Communications. "As the first network devoted to the upscale men's market, Velocity will be a hub for viewers within this key demographic, as well as the wealth of advertisers that target them."

"In the same way that a car once defined the person who drove it, Velocity will define the viewer who watches it, " said Robert S. Scanlon, Senior Vice President of Velocity. "Whether you are a car aficionado or just someone who prefers fast-paced, high-stakes television, Velocity will become a must-have entertainment destination."

For more information visit Discovery Communications.

Chevrolet responds loud and clear to the new CAFÉ plan with their new 2012 Sonic. The Sonic is a sub-compact car that delivers an EPA-estimated 40 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city. It runs on a 1.4L turbocharged engine that is SAE certified at 138 horsepower and at 148 ft.-lbs. of torque between 2,500 and 4,900 rpm. This wide rpm range allows for a better driving experience and better engine performance. The Sonic can reach 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, and is on par to compete with the Ford Fiesta SFE and the Hyundai Accent.

The Sonic is currently the only sub-compact car built in America. The General Motors Orion Assembly facility in Lake Orion, Michigan began production on it this past summer. Some of the premium design features for the Sonic include:

• Low-mass hollow-frame cast iron block
• Dual overhead camshafts with continuously variable valve timing
• Chain-driven cams
• Roller-finger camshaft followers
• Piston-cooling oil jets and integrated oil cooler
• Variable-flow oil pump
• Electronically controlled thermostat.

The Sonic is also available with a 1.8L engine that gets just slightly less mpg than its brother, but still maintains an impressive 26 city and 35 highway. The starting price for the Sonic will be $14,495, not only saving you money in the long run on fuel costs, but also in the total vehicle cost upfront. To learn more about the Sonic visit GM’s website here and read the full press release.

As if the Camaro SS wasn’t enough of a beast, you can now get a Camaro with even more muscle, the 2012 Camaro ZL1. Sure to put a permanent grin on your face, the ZL1 is powered by a supercharged, 6.2L LSA V8 that delivers 580 hp and 556 lb-ft of torque. An abundance of power isn’t the only feature that makes the ZL1 an outstanding performer. Advanced powertrain and chassis technologies accompany the ZL1’s power to make the new Camaro a top performer.

“The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “For sheer power, the ZL1 delivers more horsepower than a Ferrari 458, more torque than an Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a better power-to-weight ratio than a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS.

“The Camaro ZL1 also features exclusive chassis and traction technologies,” Oppenheiser said, “to offer the best of all worlds – including balanced handling for the track, acceleration for a drag strip, and the comfort of a daily driver.” 

The most powerful production Camaro ever, the ZL1’s LSA power plant is offered with either a six-speed Tremec TR-6060 manual or Hydra-Matic 6L900 automatic transmission. The manual gear box features 30 percent more torque capacity than the Camaro SS while auto trans has been strengthened to handle the added torque and horsepower as well as includes three distinct drive modes (Drive, Sport, Manual) to allow equal performance on street and track.

Featuring the third-generation of Magnetic Ride Control (MRC), the ZL1 provides a comfortable ride suitable for daily driving as well as incredibly precise body control for enjoyable track performance. Available with Tour, Sport, and Track settings, the MRC adjusts dampening 1,000 times per second to provide superior ride quality and handling.

Available with 5 different modes, the ZL1’s standard Performance Traction Management (PTM) was first introduced on the Corvette ZR1 and is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control and electronic stability control, to enhance performance on the racetrack and drag strip.+

Full Press Release

You can choose from 3 different backgrounds to display your Mustang – a dragway, cityscape, or drive-in restaurant- and view your car from five different angles on any of the backgrounds.

After selecting your model of Mustang, you can change its color to just about any color that you choose. There are 10 standard color swatches, or you can use three color sliders to fine tune your paint job with exactly the right color. Next you simply go through the different accessories, such as body kits, grilles, roof styles, hood scoops, spoilers, wheels, and much more, and choose your favorite.

When you have built the perfect Mustang, Ford allows you to download a .jpeg image to save for your desktop wallpaper, of share it on Facebook, Twitter, or via e-mail. A “battle mode” through your Facebook account lets you go head-to-head with other users and see whose Mustang looks the best.

When you are ready to make your virtual Mustang a reality, Ford allows you to download a .pdf file with the parts used to create your Mustang. For a large selection of Ford Mustang parts and accessories, be sure and visit AutoTruckToys, or for the full press release from Ford, visit here.

Here is a pic of the custom Shelby GT500 that I built and downloaded.