The Land Rover G4 Challenge is the ultimate adventure. Following the success of the very first Challenge in 2003, the adventure continues in 2006. The Land Rover G4 Challenge offers men and women from 18 nations the opportunity to match strategy, stamina and skill in an awesome 4×4 driving and multi-sport challenge. Working in bi-national teams, competitors are matched against each other across four consecutive stages spanning Southeast Asia and South America.
The Challenge will unfold in both urban and remote areas, with one competitor, representing one nation, emerging as the Challenge winner.

Lexus will stage the world premiere of its all-new 2007 ES luxury sedan at a press conference during the Chicago Auto Show on Wednesday, February 8, 2006.
Arriving late this spring, the fifth-generation Lexus ES will set impressive new standards in design, styling, engineering, safety and performance.
The Lexus press conference is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. at the Lexus display area in McCormick Place convention center.

The all-new 2007 Lexus ES 350 made its public debut today at the Chicago Auto Show. The all-new, fully redesigned ES marks the fourth Lexus sedan to benefit from the L-finesse design language. Going on sale in late April, the fifth-generation ES improves upon every level of comfort, safety, performance and craftsmanship in the elegant five-passenger sedan.
“We believe the newly revamped ES 350 is better in most every way than our original LS flagship sedan,” said Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter. “It’s faster, quieter and more powerful than the first LS that redefined the prestige luxury segment in the early 1990s.”
2007 ES Marks Complete Redesign of All Lexus Sedans
From a styling standpoint, the ES marks the latest Lexus sedan to receive a complete redesign emphasizing a more sculptural direction, one that now reveals a family resemblance across the entire passenger car lineup. With an over two-inch longer wheelbase and more than an inch wider track, the ES has a more confident stance. A long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck are characteristic of the new L-finesse design theme, recalling classic sports car proportions with a contemporary look unique to all new-generation Lexus sedans.
The creation of a spatial feeling in the passenger compartment is central to the new Lexus design direction. Without increasing the overall exterior length, engineers were able to increase rear legroom while maintaining the already roomy driver and front-passenger compartment.
The interior of the new ES introduces a new level of craftsmanship as well. Premium wood and leather accents provide a level of luxury never before seen in the entry luxury segment. Everything inside the ES is designed and styled to create a comfortable and harmonious interaction, with touchpoints that convey quality and refinement. The roomy, luxurious cabin is complemented by intelligently designed displays and controls to make driving both simple and pleasurable. Bright, clear Optitron gauges combined with smartly integrated metallic and authentic brown walnut wood trim help create a luxurious, elegant ambience.
Powerful Technology for New V6
The ES 350’s 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 272 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in an estimated zero-to-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, substantially quicker than the model it replaces. The highly sophisticated engine uses electronically controlled sequential fuel injection, which optimizes the fuel mixture and creates a precise burn, higher output and lower emissions to aid drivability. The result is a substantial improvement in engine efficiency with increased power and improved fuel economy.
The engine also benefits from reduced internal friction via chain-driven camshafts and roller-rocker arms that serve to increase efficiency. Aluminum heads and cylinder blocks feature special cast-in “spiny” cylinder liners to improve liner stability and cooling by increasing surface contact area with the cylinder head.
The new ES comes standard with dual exhaust, which reduces exhaust backpressure at high rpm. Extensive use of stainless steel in the exhaust system minimizes weight and improves durability. The integration of these technologies contributes to segment-leading efficiency with the ES 350 obtaining a manufacturer-estimated combined fuel economy of 25 mpg (21 mpg city/30 mpg highway) and an expected Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification.
Six-Speed Transmission
The front-wheel drive ES 350 features a six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) and sequential shift. The low-friction, high-efficiency gear train is lighter and more compact than the previous generation 5-speed transmission with 20 percent fewer parts and 24 percent fewer hydraulic controls. Gear ratios are carefully matched to both engine horsepower and torque characteristics to provide very smooth yet responsive shifts for improved drivability.
New Intelligent Luxury
In addition to a new look and feel, the new ES also improves upon the increasingly complex nature of automotive technology. The ES offers numerous standard features such as SmartAccess keyless entry and a new push-to-start ignition system that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without removing the access fob from their pocket or purse.
Lexus’ craftsmanship and renowned attention to detail provide true luxury by design. Dual-zone automatic climate control and 10-way power front seats, with available memory, highlight the front cabin. The supportive standard cloth seats are also available in leather and extra-soft upgraded perforated leather for additional comfort.
The three-spoke steering wheel features easy-to-use controls for the audio system, trip computer and multi-information display in the speedometer. It also adds a voice control switch for the available Bluetooth® navigation and features. An auto-dimming rearview mirror with an integrated digital compass is standard, as are heated exterior mirrors.
Additional standard luxury features include a sliding center console, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, a one-touch power moonroof and an illuminated entry system that lights the exterior with puddle lamps and the interior cabin footwells.
Luxury extends to the smallest details in the new ES, from illuminated front cup holders to an interior LED soft-lighting system that provides just the right amount of light where driver and passengers need it most. And the ES lends extra peace of mind with the integrated Homelink® transmitter that can control a variety of compatible home security devices and systems.
Advanced Safety Features
New standard safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC), an electronic traction-control system that uses both throttle and brake intervention to help control wheel spin.
In addition, the new ES provides eight standard airbags; 10 with the optional rear-seat side airbags. For 2007, the ES gains new knee airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as a twin-chamber front passenger airbag. Side-curtain airbags coupled with front seat-mounted airbags and the optional rear-seat side airbags are designed to help offer additional crash energy management for the front and rear seat occupants.
The Supplemental Restraint System in the new ES also includes variable-force front airbags for both driver and front passenger. Sensors determine the severity of the accident and, in turn, the force with which to deploy the front airbags, helping to provide an appropriate level of occupant restraint. Rear-seat side airbags are offered optionally.
The ES 350 includes the safety of several visibility-enhancing technologies. The front side windows feature a water-repellant surface that helps to bead rainwater. A rear back-up camera, part of the available navigation package, is mounted near the top of the license plate surround and projects a color image of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen whenever the vehicle is in reverse.
In addition, the ES provides the first-ever intelligent Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) that allows both right and left front headlamp bulbs to swivel at the same time to help illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it.
Luxury Alive in the Details
For the first time, Lexus offers an optional panorama glass roof on the ES 350 creating an expansive feeling of openness for interior passengers. The glass roof extends over the entire passenger cabin providing a fixed skylight for rear passengers and a sliding sunroof for front passengers. A manual interior shade is provided for the front and rear passenger compartments. The frameless design allows for significantly tighter gaps versus those provided by other manufacturers and, with no visible gaskets, contributes to its sleek appearance and efficient aerodynamics.
Optional ventilated front seats and an available power rear window sunshade work in concert with the standard dual-zone climate control that filters the air to keep occupants comfortable. A dual-zone automatic climate control allows driver and front passenger to customize interior temperatures, while rear passengers enjoy their own A/C vents.
The optional and newly upgraded fifth-generation navigation system offers eight million points of interest (POI). The multi-information display makes key information readily available and easy to see. These and other features available on the new ES, such as semi-aniline leather, High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, intelligent Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, heated/ventilated front seats and the panorama glass roof are normally found only in more expensive luxury cars.
Mind-Expanding Audio Systems
An enhanced standard premium audio system brings an in-dash, six-disc CD-changer, MP3 player, iPod connectivity and an additional speaker to the 2007 ES. The system also includes an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) to maintain consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Music aficionados will appreciate the newest generation of the optional Mark Levinson audio system in the new ES. Using a 7.1-channel speaker architecture, this leading-edge design uses 10 channels of amplification with a total of 300 watts at 0.1 percent Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) playing through 14 speakers to bring a major new dimension to automotive audio sound. The Mark Levinson audio also takes advantage of DVD audio and video technology, allowing users to play both conventional CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color 7-inch touch screen when the vehicle is parked.
The all-new 2007 Lexus ES goes on sale late April. Although prices have not been finalized, it will represent the best value in the entry luxury segment.

Torrance, Calif. 03/01/2006 — American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is posting record February vehicle sales of 106,644, up 8.7 percent, led by increases for its most popular models including the all-new Civic and the re-designed Accord, up 37.6 percent and 4.4 percent, respectively. Year-to-date sales of 205,038 are up 14.1 percent.
Honda Division is posting record February sales of 92,498 cars and light trucks, an increase of 12.8 percent, with additional records broken for total Honda truck sales of 41,980 and Pilot sales of 10,901. Year-to-date, Honda Division is up 18.1 percent with sales of 176,911.
Civic sales of 24,722 include 1,780 Civic Hybrids (up 31.6 percent) and Accord sales of 25,285 include 783 Accord Hybrids. February combined sales of Honda’s three hybrid vehicles are up 18.2 percent to 2,635, and up 47.5 percent for the year to 6,210. February marks the first full year for the Ridgeline with sales cumulatively reaching 50,892, on-track with its 12-month sales target of 50,000 units.
“The American consumer is re-discovering cars and the timing for the all-new 2006 Civic couldn’t be better,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. “The Civic has been strong out of the gate and Honda’s diverse lineup of light trucks has set a record for four consecutive months.”
Acura Division posted sales of 14,146 with record TSX sports sedan sales up 1.4 percent. The TL performance luxury sedan continued as Acura’s top-selling model with February sales of 5,169

General Introduction
The 2007 Honda Fit is designed to take the subcompact market into new territory with its highly refined and ultra-adaptable functionality, sporty driving demeanor and high levels of standard safety equipment. Built on Honda’s legendary foundation for dependability, quality and reliability, the Fit is a premium entry vehicle that emphasizes style, technology and value.
Already an established and hugely popular vehicle in Japan and Europe (sold as the Honda Jazz), the latest version of the Fit debuting in the U.S. has a 1.5-liter VTEC(TM) engine, six standard airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and a unique multi-configuration 60/40 split Magic Seat(R) as standard features, while a 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters is available. All of the Fit’s features and equipment are designed to give drivers the ability to maximize driving fun, utility and safety.
2007 Honda Fit Highlights
5-door, subcompact hatchback
1.5-liter VTEC 4-cylinder engine
109 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
105 lb-ft. torque @ 4800 rpm
Standard 5-speed manual transmission and available 5-speed automatic transmission
Drive-by-Wire throttle control
Estimated EPA fuel economy of 33 mpg city / 38 mpg highway (manual transmission)
Standard dual front, front side and side curtain airbags
Standard anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Power windows, mirrors and door locks
AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers (six speakers on Fit Sport)
Available Fit Sport with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and more
With a vast array of standard features, the Fit is a premium entry car – providing a versatile, multi-configurable small car that optimizes power, cargo room, handling and safety. The Fit is powered by a 1.5-liter VTEC gasoline engine generating 109 horsepower and 105 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission or the segment’s only 5-speed automatic transmission. The estimated 33 mpg city / 38 highway mileage (manual transmission) is among the best fuel economy ratings for conventional gasoline engines in 2006.
The Fit Sport adds steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter controls on models with the automatic transmission, while its underbody kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights and 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels offer a sporty, aerodynamic look. Additional Fit Sport features include a security system with remote entry, premium 200-watt AM/FM/CD audio system and cruise control.
Automotive

2006 New York International Auto Show
Honda Press Conference, April 13, 2006
Remarks by Dick Colliver, Executive Vice President
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Good morning and thank you for joining us for the Honda press event. As you saw in our playful opening module, Honda is a company that now has a full line-up of world-class, award-winning vehicles. A line-up that is continuing to get stronger every day. The new Civic came out of the gate a winner on every level and Civic sales are up 32 percent over last year. And the all-new Fit launches next week…. a Honda in the full sense of the word, it’s a vehicle which is unique in its segment with great interior flexibility, and high levels of standard feature content, safety, and refinement.
And later this year we’ll be launching an all-new CR-V, and a very hot new Civic Si sedan. All of that in addition to the new vehicle I’m going to show you in a few moments. With the addition of the Ridgeline pickup at one end, and the sub-compact Fit at the other, Honda now has the most comprehensive line-up in its history, with product offerings in nearly all segments. Add it all up and its clear that Honda is on the move and we are projecting record sales for the our 11th record consecutive year with total sales of 1.3 million vehicles. As we expand our product line, and work to build sales, we’re also continuing to remain focused on protecting the environment.
Honda’s commitment to the environment runs deep and is expressed in everything we do including our alternative fuel vehicles. The Honda FCX for example, is the most advanced hydrogen powered vehicle on earth. And, while we create the technologies of tomorrow, we’re also making the most of the fuels available today.– Fuels like natural gas. Available in millions of homes across America, natural gas is a clean, eco-friendly alternative fuel. Until now the only ones able to use it for vehicles were large companies with their own fleet of refueling stations. Honda is changing that. Next month we’re launching the next generation of the natural gas powered Civic GX in California. Using the Phill refueling appliance, customers can now conveniently refuel at home. With an overnight refuel, the Civic GX has a range of approximately 250 miles – more than enough to cover most daily driving.
The Phill home refueling appliance removes the infrastructure barrier to consumer use of natural gas vehicles, and it is a breakthrough technology. As for the Civic GX, it’s the cleanest running vehicle sold anywhere on earth, and it’s an expression of Honda’s corporate commitment to creating “Blue skies” for our children. Honda is the only company to offer this technology, and I am pleased to announce today that Civic GX — and the home refueling appliance — will be available throughout New York State starting this fall.
And, while we work to protect the environment, we’re also doing everything we can to ensure that Honda vehicles are as safe as possible. In 2003 we publicly launched our “safety for everyone” initiative. This initiative was designed to bring a core suite of standard safety features that go beyond current regulations, to every Honda model regardless of size or price.
Those features include: side curtain airbags, front-side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and pedestrian safety design. It’s a comprehensive package and, by the end of this calendar year every Honda — except for our small volume specialty models — will have these safety technologies. In addition, we have also applied the ACE body structure to nearly half of our models, and have added a series of other safety features above and beyond our original commitment. The next great Hondas to include all of the “safety for everyone” features will be the 2007 Element line-up, including a new urban-oriented version of this popular SUV.
One of the hallmarks of Element is its versatility, and the new Element SC Prototype is designed to expand that versatility by appealing to a whole new group of young buyers.
This is the Element SC prototype, and it has been designed to be the hip, style conscious, performance-oriented brother of the original Element — which makes New York City the perfect place to introduce it. Complimenting the outdoor lifestyle features the Element is known for, the Element SC injects a new dimension of sophistication into the line-up that can best be summarized as “city performer”. With fully painted panels and trim pieces, the exterior is designed to convey a more sophisticated attitude.
Exclusive prototype features include: custom front bumper, a custom grill , projector beam headlights, a front to rear Aero Body Kit, a lowered roofline, a new suspension riding 3″ lower than the stock edition, and custom 21″ cast aluminum alloy wheels with high performance tires.
Inside, there are a variety of exclusive features which work together to create an upscale, urban feel. These include: glossy black trim pieces, a carpeted floor, copper-hue instrument panel lighting with corresponding trim accents and a new integrated seat-belt system. There’s also a center console that has enclosed storage areas ideal for cell phones and MP3 players, and which creates a more cockpit-like environment.
Element SC is powered by a 2.4 liter dual overhead cam, iVTEC engine that produces 166 horsepower — 10 more than the ’06 Element. It comes standard with a five-speed manual — and the available automatic has five forward gears instead of four. As for handling, it has been vastly improved thanks to a dynamic combination of “track worthy” steering and suspension. And, as I said a moment ago, it also comes standard with a full array of highly advanced, world-class safety features.
As for our buyers, we expect Element SC to appeal to young males seeking an expression of their personal style. This Element will provide that along with cargo versatility, plus a great driving experience. And, we will announce technical details, pricing, and sales plans closer to its debut this fall. With everything it has going for it, Element SC is going to be a hot new addition to the Honda line-up…. A line-up that continues to grow stronger, and better everyday as we set our sights on another year of record sales.

Five-Star Ratings for Driver and Passenger in Frontal Crashes
Patented Frame Rail Technology Improves Crash Performance
“Safety is a Top Priority at Chrysler Group”
AUBURN HILLS, Michigan – Innovative technologies used in the design and engineering of the new Dodge Durango were part of a focus on safety and security that has resulted in top performance in frontal collisions for the industry-leading SUV.
The 2004 Durango received the highest frontal crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – five stars for both driver and front-passenger protection.
Among the technologies used on Durango is DaimlerChrysler’s patented frame rail tips that improve energy absorption in frontal crashes. The octagonal rail tips fold up like an accordion during a crash to absorb as much energy as possible and reduce crash forces reaching occupants in the passenger compartment.
The frame rail tips are produced by a process called hydroforming, which uses water to shape the metal part in ways not possible by stamping to further improve performance in a crash. Popular Science magazine named frame rail design as one of the top 100 technological innovations of 2003.
“Safety is a top priority at Chrysler Group, and we are pleased that the efforts of our designers and engineers have paid off in the crash performance of the new Durango,” said Mike Donoughe, Vice President – Body-on-Frame Product Team.
“We set stringent safety and security targets for the vehicle from the beginning, and our development team made sure that we hit them.”
In addition to the patented frame rails, DaimlerChrysler engineers enhanced Durango’s safety and security performance through development of several advanced technologies:
Enhanced body structure, including crush beads and stiffeners engineered into the vehicle body to absorb energy while preserving the integrity of the vehicle compartment.
Three-point lap/shoulder belts in all seven seating positions.
Pretensioners and constant force retractors on the front seat belts.
Advanced multistage air bag systems with an occupant-classification system for the front passenger that measures conditions for activation or deactivation of the passenger-side air bag based upon the weight of the occupant.
Energy-absorbing steering column.
Front crush sensors located inside the engine compartment that measure the severity of the impact and relay crash information to safety systems in the occupant compartment.
Durango’s crash performance was verified through a program of severe testing that went beyond the current government standards, including a 40-mph offset frontal crash simulating a high-speed vehicle-to-vehicle impact.
“In addition to frontal crash protection, we have done a lot of things to offer additional protection to Durango occupants in all kinds of crashes,” Donoughe noted.
The front bumper and frame were lowered seven inches to make the full-size SUV Durango compatible with the front ends of passenger cars in the event of an impact.
Chrysler Group was among the first companies to introduce side-curtain air bag technology to cover all three rows of seats in the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica. That innovation continues in Durango, one the first SUVs available with this safety feature.
And the driver’s side is also equipped with BeltAlert – a new enhanced seat belt reminder system that periodically activates a chime and illuminates a light in the instrument cluster to remind the driver to buckle up.
“Collectively, Dodge Durango’s structure, features and extensive testing help provide a cocoon of protection to absorb energy and deflect it away from passengers in a crash,” said Donoughe.
Automotive

When Dodge presented Atlanta Rapper T.I. (aka Clifford Harris) with a black 2006 Dodge Charger R/T, he knew exactly how to handle accessorizing it. As co-owner of an auto shop with two professional athletes, T.I. turned the Dodge Charger into a ride worthy of his crew, the Pimp Squad Click (PSC).
Twenty-two-inch KMC Dime chrome wheels, an airbrushed PSC logo on the hood, Pirelli Scorpion tires, and smoked taillights highlight the exterior. Inside, PSC logos are stitched into white leather seats. But music takes center stage. This Dodge Charger has satellite radio via an XMD 1000 tuner box, a Kenwood iPod adapter, two MTX Thunder 7500 subwoofers, a 400- and 600-watt amp for power and four MB Quart speakers.
When this Dodge Charger R/T hits the streets of Atlanta, you’re sure to hear it coming before even laying eyes on its tricked out style. Can’t wait? See it for yourself in the December 15, 2005 issue of Rolling Stone magazine

Hey, maybe we’re a little behind on this, but we wanted you to know that your phones aren’t killing bees. There was a flurry of ecogeeky concern–one friend of ours went into graphic (and yet still very boring) detail–that cell phone frequencies were confusing bees and causing them to die. Continue reading Phones Not Killing Bees

Here’s some good news. Yahoo’s new green properties (Yahoo Green and Be a Better Planet) have launched and are already sucking in the users. Continue reading David Filo on Yahoo! Green

Ryan Lipscomb was biking home from school when a delivery truck turned in front of him. Ryan slammed on his brakes, fell off his bike and slid underneath the wheel of the truck, which then drove over his head. Continue reading Biker Gets Head Run Over…Is Just Fine

Mayor Micheal Bloomberg is about to announce that every Taxi in New York City will be a hybrid in a mere five years.

Holy Moly. I guess these are the kinds of things you have to do quickly if you want your city to produce 30% less carbon in a mere 30 years. Bloombergs plan will see a 20% increase in hybrid taxis every year for the next five years. Continue reading NYC: 100% Hybrid Yellow Cabs in 5 Years