05.04.13

Best New Car Deals In Your Area

Posted in best car deals, car advice, Total Car Resources at 10:29 am by admin

About These Car Discounts

You want the best deal on your new car—and we want to help you find it. Our pricing experts use an exclusive Total Car Resources system to discover hundreds of rebates, incentives and financing offers. Total Car Resources Deals is a one-stop resource for complete information about all available discounts in your region.

Save Up To $7500 Rebate

Just as the Toyota Prius defined the hybrid vehicle for the American market, the Nissan Leaf shaped our idea of the electric vehicle (EV). Sure, electric cars have been around since the birth of the automobile, and they made a return in the 1990s with the General Motors EV1, but the Nissan Leaf, which debuted in 2010, was the first successful mass-produced EV.

Style 2013 SL 4DR Hatchback-$7500 Rebate

MSRP $35,690
Total Car Resources Price:$33,711
Rebates $7,500

Rebates
Lease Cash Program (+)Expires 07/01/13

Click Here To Claim Your $7500 Rebate

Save Up To $5000

The 2013 Corvette has five main trim levels, including: Base, Grand Sport, 427, Z06 and ZR1. The base level Corvette starts things off with an LS3 V-8 engine that has more than enough pop to satisfy just about any buyer. When you move up to the Grand Sport model, the same LS3 engine is under the hood, but some additional styling features and upgraded handling comes along with it.

Style 2013 427 2dr Convertible – $5000 Rebate

MSRP $76,920
Total Car Resources Price $69,605
Rebates $5,000
Rebates
Customer Rebate (+)Expires 07/01/13 $2,000
Corvette Owner Loyalty Program (+)Expires 07/01/13 $3,000

Click Here To Claim Your $5000 Rebate

Save Up To $2500

The Ford Mustang has always been a leader in the sports car segment, especially for those buyers who want a great deal. It was the first car in the mid-1960s that offered a powerful V-8 engine that handled well, and was affordable to the masses. Starting 2005, the latest generation shares more than just these attributes with its predecessors.

Style 2013 V6 Premium 2dr Coupe-$2500 Rebate

MSRP $26,995
Total Car Resources Price $23,210
Rebates $2,500

Rebates
Customer Rebate (+)Expires 06/03/13 $1,000
Customer Rebate (+)Expires 07/08/13 $1,500

Click Here To Claim Your $2500 Rebate

Save Up To $5000

For the 2013 model year, the Impala nearly carries over everything from the 2012 model year, save for a few minor changes and one new package. The minor changes include a 150-amp alternator and a new exterior color option: Crystal Red Tintcoat.

Style 2013 LT Sedan-$5000 Rebate

MSRP $28,210
Total Car Resources Price $23,662
Rebates $5,000

Rebates
Customer Rebate (+)Expires 07/01/13 $4,000
GM Trade-In Allowance Program (+)Expires 07/01/13 $1,000

Click Here To Claim Your $5000 Rebate

Save Up To $5000

The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD 3500 represents the pinnacle of capability and brawn in a Chevy truck. As the name implies, HD models—it’s shorthand for heavy duty—are designed for serious hauling and towing tasks that demand more muscle than your typical full-size pickup can muster.

The HD 3500 starts with a 6-liter Vortec V8 putting out 322 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. Add to this the standard Z85 Handling/Trailering Suspension, and you have truck with a 7,222-pound payload capacity and the ability to tow from 13,000 pounds to 23,000, depending on equipment. As if that’s not enough, the optional 6.6-liter Duramax turbo diesel with its 397 horsepower and 765 pound-feet of torque can pull up to 24,500 pounds.

Style 2013 LT 4X4 Regular Cab-$5000 Rebate

MSRP $38,025
Total Car Resources Price $33,724
Rebates $5,000

Rebates
Customer Rebate (+)Expires 07/01/13 $2,000
GM Truck Loyalty Program (+)Expires 07/01/13 $1,000
Bonus Cash (+)Expires 07/01/13 $500
GM Trade-In Allowance Program (+)Expires 07/01/13 $1,500

Click Here To Claim Your $5000 Rebate

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
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04.28.13

Save up to thousands with manufacturer incentives and rebates!

Posted in car advice, car incentives and rebates, Total Car Resources at 5:39 pm by admin

Greetings TCR Readers! Below is a list of car manufacturers that are offering incentives and rebates on top of 2012 and 2013 models that have already been discounted.

Save up to thousands of dollars with new car incentives and rebates. To find car financing options and special offers for your desired vehicle, make your selection from the highlighted blue links menu below. You can also browse car rebates and incentives by vehicle segment.

Save up to thousands with manufacturer incentives and rebates!

Special Car Incentives for Recent College Grads

Most automakers are offering special incentive programs this summer just for college grads. These special programs are rarely advertised, but can mean big savings, and can usually be combined with other incentives for new cars. The editors of CarsDirect.com evaluated this year’s crop of college grad car financing incentive and rebate programs and came up with the following list of the Best Deals for College Grads. They’ve also recommended a few models that are ideal for recent grads.

HYUNDAI $400 All 2013 Hyundai models

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Hyundai Accent
Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai Genesis
Hyundai Sonata

KIA $750 All 2013 Kia models

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Kia Soul
Kia Forte Koup
Kia Forte
Kia Optima

FORD $500 All 2013 Ford models

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Ford Explorer
Ford Fiesta
Ford Focus
Ford Fusion
Ford Taurus

LINCOLN $500 All 2013 Lincoln models

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Lincoln MKZ
Lincoln MKS

NISSAN $750 Most 2013 Nissans

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Nissan Cube
Nissan Rogue
Nissan Sentra
Nissan Versa

SCION $1000 All 2013 Scion models

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Scion tC
Scion xB
Scion xD

TOYOTA $1000 All 2013 Toyota models

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Toyota Camry
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Prius
Toyota RAV4
Toyota Highlander

SUZUKI $500 Must finance through American Suzuki Financial

Students graduating within 6 months or up to 24 months after graduation

Suzuki SX4
Suzuki Kizashi

Special Car Incentives for U.S. Military Servicemen and Women

Several automakers are offering special incentive programs this summer for active and reserve members of the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and National Guard. Additionally, the spouses of the servicemen and women are also privy to these incentives. These special programs are rarely advertised, but car rebates and deals can mean big savings on new cars – and can usually be combined with other incentives. The editors of CarsDirect.com evaluated this year’s crop of military incentive programs and came up with the following list of the Best Deals.

CHEVROLET $500 Most 2013 Chevrolet models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Chevrolet Cruze
Chevrolet Colorado
Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Traverse

FORD $750 Most 2013 Ford models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Ford Explorer
Ford Flex
Ford Focus
Ford Fusion

HYUNDAI $500 Select 2013 Hyundai models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Hyundai Azera
Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai Tucson

KIA $500 Most 2013 Kia models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Kia Soul
Kia Forte Koup
Kia Forte
Kia Optima

LINCOLN $750 Most 2013 Lincoln models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Lincoln MKZ
Lincoln MKS

TOYOTA $500 All 2013 Toyota models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Toyota Camry
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Prius
Toyota RAV4
Toyota Yaris

SCION $1000 All 2013 Scion models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Scion tC
Scion xB
Scion xD

SUZUKI $500 All 2013 Suzuki models

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Suzuki Equator
Suzuki Grand Vitara
Suzuki Kizashi
Suzuki SX4

VOLVO Click here Select 2013 Volvos

Must currently serve or be a reserve in the United States Military

Volvo S40
Volvo C30

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
Submit Articles To The Editor

Your email:
subscribe
unsubscribe

Permalink Comments

04.22.13

2014 New Cars: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Posted in 2014 new cars, The Ultimate Buyer's Guide, Total Car Resources at 6:28 am by admin

Don`t blink just yet and if you have you may have missed the launch of the new 2014 models that have just arrived. As the horsepower wars continue,the battle between the Camaro ZL1 and the Shelby GT500 (pictured below) continues to be the highlight to car enthusiast.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, ever more fuel efficient cars with alternative powertrains are entering the market, including potential game-changers like the Tesla Model S. The coming months will also usher in a seismic change in the all-important midsize sedan segment, with Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, and Nissan rolling out new versions of their entries. All the while, gas prices continue marching in one direction: Upward. Given all the change and new entries on the way, it may be difficult to pick out which car is the right one for you.

To make things a little clearer and to give you a better idea of what’s to come, we’ve put together our 2014 TCR Ultimate New Car Buyer’s Guide. We break down the 162 car models currently or soon to be on sale with to-the-point reviews that will enable you to make an informed decision regardless of what kind of car you’re in the market for.

Save up to thousands with manufacturer incentives and rebates!

The Mazda6 doesn’t have to apologize for a lack of horsepower, boasting 184 horses from a 2.5-liter direct-injected I4, a couple more than the generously powered Nissan Altima. The Mazda’s power also is superior to that of the top-selling Toyota Camry’s four-cylinder model.

Price is in the plus column. The base i Sport with six-speed manual transmission starts at $20,880, with the automatic six-speed model starting at $22,495. There are several trim levels available, with the Grand Touring topping the lineup at $29,495. With a $795 delivery fee and options this one hit $31,490.
Click here to see specs.

The Audi A3 is all-new for 2014 and the first Audi to ride on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform. Audi will offer the A3 exclusively as a four-door sedan in the States(Base Price: $28,500-$32,000* ). We expect engine choices to include turbocharged four-cylinder gas and diesel mills similar to those found in the outgoing four-door hatch model.

Click here to see Audi`s powerful lineup!

The replacement unit for the RL comes with an all-new powertrain outlined by a dual-clutch fully automatic transmission and also Acura’s brand new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system , which in turn will be included in the up-coming NSX supercar . The RLX is going to be packed with a lengthy set of flagship goodies , which includes two LCD displays , Acura’s very first lane-keeping assist system , forward-collision warning , together with lane-departure warning . A 310-hp front-drive model is anticipated as the base car . (Base Price: $50,000* ).

Click here to see Acura`s lineup

The F-Type is a two-seat sports car that will slot under the XK with styling based on the ultra-sharp C-X16 concept unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt auto show. It’s expected to launch in mid-2013 as a convertible and a coupe will follow soon after. Power will come from a 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 mated to an eight-speed transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. Base Price: $46,000-$68,000* /Body Type: Convertible.

The full-size sedan is anticipated to take the place of the terminated Amanti as the brand new Kia flagship model . As Kia’s halo car , the Cadenza will arrive packed with high-tech gadgets along with a flamboyant interior , which includes front and rear parking assist sensors , rearview video camera , and even ambient interior lighting . A V-8 has additionally been rumored , however that might be shelved for a RWD Kia in the foreseeable future .

Lexus’ flagship goes under the knife for the 2014 model year . Anticipate the hottest design to share the familial spindle front grille and other aesthetic design cues from the brand new ES as well as GS , inside and out . Mechanical details are expected to stay about the same as before , however with modest bumps in power as well as fuel economy . Additionally , never discount the LS in the event that you’re eyeing technology gizmos as well as an airy ride .

The A-Class has long been forbidden fruit for People in America , however that changes with the all-new model . The A-Class is going to ride on Benz’s brand new front-drive MFA platform , which also underpins the B-Class and the up-coming CLA . Powertrain choices could include a 208-hp , 2 .0-liter turbo-four , mated to a 7-sp dual-clutch automatic . The A-Class will no doubt also be tech-rich all of which will consist of a new version of the COMAND infotainment system .

Click here to see Mercedes-Benz

Porsche’s all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid supercar launches for 2014 . It is going to be powered by a 4 .6-liter V-8 delivering 563 hp and two electric motors producing a combined 228 hp . Total output are estimated to be 770 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque . The 918 Spyder will be capable of operating as a conventional electric car with a 15-mile range , a hybrid , or as a full-blown supercar .

I hope you enjoyed the selection of new 2014 cars the have thus far been introduced. I will keep you informed as the new models continues to arrive.

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
Submit Articles To The Editor

Your email:
subscribe
unsubscribe

Permalink Comments

04.16.13

Future Classic Cars

Posted in classic cars, lexus is300, Luxury Sports Cars, Total Car Resources at 3:13 am by admin

Most car enthusiast agree that the Lexus IS300 will become a classic in a very short time. Yes, I may be just a little biased because I do own a 2003 Lexus IS300 that is pictured above. I tend to visit car shows in the San Diego area quite frequently and I get a lot of compliments on how well designed my Lexus is. Although the Lexus IS300 is a luxury sports car, it is not a muscle car. For style and design, it has my vote for being the number one future classic car. Just last month, I was offered $20,000 for my car. I turned him down.

What is a classic car? The only real definition we could find was from the Classic Car Club of America, which maintains that a classic car must be 20-40 years old, and anything older is an ‘antique’.

There are varying opinions on what makes a car a classic and in some cases a car can become a classic after 15 years of the last production of the last model. Just because a car reaches the age of 15 or 20 years does not make it a classic. There is also the rarity of the car itself which may help define it as a classic. When I say rarity, I mean as time goes by, you see less and less of certain models. Most states and Insurance Companies have their own guidelines as to what qualifies as a classic automobile. So before you sell your old car, do some research to see if your car has classic status!

Number 2 on my list is the Mini Cooper, perhaps named after the infamous DB Cooper? The first modern Mini (model designation R50) to be released by BMW attracted a huge amount of interest in the years running up to, and after, it’s launch. The bloated cars and vastly inflated model range we see today compares to just the one model shape released at launch. The Mini was available in it’s first year as the Mini One, Mini Cooper or Cooper S. Towards the end of it’s run, in 2006, 459 examples of the Cooper S with a John Cooper Works GP kit were sold. Whilst the R50 Mini will certainly be a future classic the Cooper JCW will become a bonefide collectors item.

Coming in at number 3 is the Volkswagen Golf Mk4 GTi 25th Anniversary

In order to mark the Golf’s 25th anniversary Volkswagen released two special edition models in limited numbers – the petrol powered, 180bhp, 1.8T, GTi and the diesel 150bhp, 1.9TD GTi. 900 of each variant were released. Nothing attracts cachet in classic cars than a limited edition and, despite the market being flooded with Mk4 GTi’s, the Anniversary models were different enough (brakes, wheels, suspension, bodykit) to have already started to attract higher prices. In 30 years these will be the Golf to own and that 60 year olds will look back on with dewy eyes.

Renault sport took one humdrum hatchback, added a thumping great V6, installed it where the back seats should be and used it to drive the rear wheels. They then gave one to Jenson Button to use as a company car. The Clio V6 was cool. Never mind it was highly rated as a track tool. It was so impractical, and challenging to drive, as to be unique. Most Clios will have been scrapped in 30 years. Those Clio V6s that haven’t been crashed or vandalised by foolish owners will be cherished as classics of the 2000s.

Given that the MX5 is looked on now as a back to basics, no-nonsense roadster for the connoisseur petrolhead imagine how it will be viewed in 3 decades when automatic gearboxes, electric parking brakes, steer by wire, hybrid drivetrain, self parking, self levelling suspension and autonomous cruise control are the norm. The MX5 will be known as the last of the real cars with it’s sweet engine, real handbrake, manual gearbox and steering that actually feels as though it’s connected to the wheels. The MX5 will be the the MG Midget of the 2040s. They’ll be cheap and old men will work on them at the weekends, then they’ll take them out for a Sunday run to experience “driving as it used to be.”

A bit like the MX5 but slightly more hardcore and less rusty. The VX220/Elise will be owned by the more discerning petrolhead who wants to remember the wind in the hair experience they never actually got when they were young because they were really driving Mondeo company cars. In an age of electronics and complex drivetrains these cars will be able to be worked on by enthusiasts armed with no more than a Haynes manual and a socket set. It is impossible to believe these cars, separated only by body panels, engines and badges will not be outright classics in 30 years.

Reviled by many petrolheads for it’s image, it’s awkward design and the fact it was the first mainstream hybrid to break through into the mass conscience, the Prius is loved by a minority (including Alex Wakefield who wrote this excellent article). In fact it was Alex who lobbied for it’s inclusion in this list because, “it’s the first car to significantly change car design since 1888.” And he’s not far wrong. When hybrids are the norm this will be looked back on as the car that changed everything and heralded in a new era – like it or not.

Other cars that may become classics are the Shelby Mustang, 1994 Chevy Impala and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. By default, I did not mention high end cars like the Aston Martin Vanquish and the Ferrari because of limited production and price which will automatically make them classics do to the fact that they are rare cars today.

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
Submit Articles To The Editor

Your email:
subscribe
unsubscribe

Permalink Comments

04.13.13

Innovative Detroit Electric SP:01

Posted in Detroit Electric SP:01, sports cars, Total Car Resources at 9:09 am by admin

Emissions-free motoring has a new high-performance champion following the unveiling today of the Detroit Electric SP:01, a limited-edition, two-seat pure-electric sports car that sets new standards for performance and handling in the electric vehicle (EV)segment. Boasting an impressive 155 mph (249 km/h) top speed and covering the 0-62mph (0-100km/h) sprint in a blistering 3.7 seconds, the SP:01 is the world’s fastest pure-electric production car.

The new SP:01 was launched under the brand’s mantra of ‘Pure Electric Excitement’ and was revealed at Detroit Electric’s new headquarters in the Fisher Building in downtown Detroit. Just 999 examples will be built at Detroit Electric’s new production facility in Wayne County, Michigan, with cars sold worldwide through a network of specialist retail partners.

The SP:01’s exceptional performance is owed in large part to its excellent power-toweight ratio. The rear-wheel-drive SP:01 features a compact, mid-mounted 201 bhp electric motor (delivering 166 lb ft of torque), a lightweight, purpose-designed battery pack and all-new carbon-fibre bodywork. Total weight is just 2,354 lb, contributing to the SP:01’s superior driving dynamics and class-leading handling. The vehicle is based on a strong yet lightweight aluminium platform, and is being launched following a five-year development and road-test programme. As well as the all-new carbon-fibre bodywork, similar to that used in Formula 1 vehicle chassis, the SP:01 also features specialised performance-tuned suspension, steering and brake systems to provide class-leading ride and handling characteristics.

To deliver instantaneous torque for breath-taking acceleration, the SP:01’s innovative powertrain creates an electromagnetic field around the rotor shaft, which then spins at varying speeds to drive the wheels. Drivers can select one of four gear ratios for optimal acceleration, but unlike a manual shift in a conventional car, there is little need to change gear regularly to ensure brisk progress.

With an impressive energy storage capacity of 37 kWh, the battery gives the SP:01 a range of almost 190 miles between recharges, when tested to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standard. Detroit Electric’s home charging unit will enable drivers to charge their SP:01, with full charge achieved in 4.3 hours. Rigorously tested by Detroit Electric for use in the SP:01, the battery technology also has been deployed successfully in other highly demanding
applications, notably in helicopters and submarines.

“The SP:01 will be exclusive, luxurious and technologically advanced,” said Albert Lam, Detroit Electric’s Chairman and Group CEO. “It is a milestone in the history of the Detroit Electric brand, but also a significant development for the international EV sector. The car will allow us to demonstrate to the world our ability to build an exciting and innovative product, one that displays outstanding performance coupled with strong green credentials, and which delivers an exhilarating driving experience.”

Emotive design

The SP:01’s bespoke bodywork is constructed entirely of carbon fibre. Styled by Detroit Electric’s Head of Design, Jerry Chung, the SP:01’s angular lines and muscular stance give the car a bold, imposing design while also optimising aerodynamic efficiency. The one-piece front panel features a sharply contoured bonnet and angular front fenders with imposing air-intakes to emphasise the car’s power and prowess. The compact rear light cluster is reminiscent of high-performance American sports cars of the past, while the integrated side cooling ducts enhance the car’s distinctive profile. To accentuate the SP:01’s pure electric credentials, a transparent inspection window displays the vehicle’s impressive battery technology.

The interior of the vehicle hints at the essence of the Detroit Electric brand by combining luxurious refinement with advanced technology – highlighted through the use of carbonfibre and specially selected leather finishes.

Unique SAMI infotainment system

The cabin of the SP:01 is packed with innovation, being the first to use smartphone applications to manage the complete in-car infotainment system. Named ‘SAMI’(Smartphone Application Managed Infotainment system), SAMI provides access to a wide range of functions, including music player, satellite navigation, interior lighting adjust and vehicle systems status – such as the level of battery charge, range to recharge and other vehicle telemetry. It can, of course, also be used to make mobile phone calls.

The inspiration does not just stop here. SAMI can also act as a remote control unit (via GSM), enabling the user to locate the vehicle, turn on the climate control system and check the charge status.

More than just a sports car

“Our research engineers at Detroit Electric have taken steps to break the mould,” adds Mr Lam. “SP:01 is more than just a sports car, it is a mobile energy unit, allowing the user to use its stored battery energy to power not just the car but even an entire home. SP:01 is equipped with bi-directional charge and discharge capability,allowing it to release its stored electrical energy to power a home.”

The SP:01’s bi-directional charge and discharge feature is made possible through the patented Detroit Electric home charging and power back-up unit, named ‘360 Powerback’. It is a smart home-charging and power back-up unit that enables the SP:01’s battery to be charged at the rate of 8 kWh (240V@32A). This smart unit can also detect any power failure of the grid and provide the option to the user – via SAMI and the GSM network – to instruct the vehicle to restore power to the home using its stored energy.

“360 Powerback is the next level of innovation and shows our determination to provide additional value proposition through our EVs, uniquely elevating us from others in the segment,” added Mr Lam.

Power preserved

An all-disc braking system, coupled with ABS (anti-lock braking) and ESP (Electronic Stability Control) is fitted as standard, ensuring excellent stopping power. But it is the SP:01’s Regenerative Braking technology that sets the car apart, underpinning superb stopping performance while ensuring greater energy efficiency. The car’s energy recovery mechanism uses the motor as a generator, recovering kinetic energy when acceleration is interrupted and using it to recharge the vehicle’s battery packs, while imitating the retardation characteristics of a gasoline engine.

Production and pedigree.

The SP:01 sports car is the first production vehicle to be marketed under the Detroit Electric brand since 1939. On sale in many of Detroit Electric’s target markets by end of August, the SP:01 will herald a new family of all-electric production cars, including two other high-performance models that will enter production by the end of 2014. The price of SP:01 starts at $135,000 USD, and will vary according to specification and local taxes.

Each SP:01 will come with a three-year, 30,000-mile warranty with an optional extension for the battery to five years and 50,000 miles. The SP:01 will be produced at the new Detroit Electric production site in Wayne Country,Michigan. The dedicated facility will have an annual capacity of 2,500 vehicles and create over 180 manufacturing and sales-related jobs over the next year. The original electric car innovators, Detroit Electric began life in 1906 and established itself as the market leader and most prolific manufacturer of electric cars. Detroit Electric went on to make some 13,000 vehicles by 1939 and holds the electric vehicle production world record for the twentieth century.

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
Submit Articles To The Editor

Your email:
subscribe
unsubscribe

Permalink Comments

04.10.13

How to spot a good car lease

Posted in car advice, leasing, Total Car Resources at 7:07 am by admin

Leasing has been lauded as your cheapest ticket to keep up with the industry’s hottest vehicles and trends. The jury, however, is still out on leasing: with the industry long on hype and short on detail, it is difficult to distinguish between a genuinely good deal and a downright up-selling exercise.

So how do you spot a good deal?

First, you need to find out if there are any down payments on the lease. A down payment refers to the lump sum amount that you pay upfront, either in cash, non-cash credit or trading allowance, to reduce your monthly payment. You should think twice before putting money down on a lease: not only are you getting a rough deal, as you’re essentially forfeiting the general rule of leasing: not putting any cash upfront, but the money is not recoupable at the end of your lease. There is another big disadvantage: in the event of your car getting damaged or stolen, you insurance and the gap cost will not cover the loss.

Mileage Limit

Most leasing companies allow you a limit of 45,000 free miles over the length of a 3-year lease. This may seem like a good deal at first sight, but when you consider it only comes to 15,000 miles over a 12 month period it’s not
difficult to foresee why it might be difficult to stay within this limit. Even people working from home have little trouble putting 15,000 miles on their cars.

If you exceed the mileage limit, the penalty for each excess mile can be as high as 20 cents. This can add up quickly over the length of your lease: an additional 4,000 miles a year over the length of a 3-years lease contract, will end up costing you an extra $2,400 in excess mileage charges! Be realistic about your mileage needs, especially if you have to regularly commute over long-distances, before you sign the contract. Consider padding the miles that you expect to use since it is less expensive to contract for the extra before you sign than it is to pay the extra charges at end of your lease.

Sales Tax

Sales tax is usually capitalized and added to the monthly payments. However, some dealers choose not to include it in their calculations to drive the advertised lease payments even lower. What they do instead is state in the small print that the monthly payment excludes “sales tax”. Make sure you carefully read the fine print for any extra, hidden costs not included in the advertised monthly payment. Unscrupulous fees that typically slip through the cracks include sales tax, registration and title fees.

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

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04.08.13

Old Cars Are Sexy!

Posted in classic cars, Total Car Resources at 6:13 am by admin

I had the privilege of attending the Good Guys annual car show in Delmar, California this past Saturday. The show card said there would be about 2500 show cars but it was more like 700. Nevertheless, it seems every classic car that was made in the last 100 years was there including the 1954 customized Nash Metropolitan shown above. Trucks were well represented as well as you can tell by the pictures below.

There is something very sexy about old cars that just brings excitement to life. The crowds are always large and in this car show the crowds were estimated at 10,000! Not to play down the new cars of the day but there is just something special about America`s Love affair with the cars from the 60`s and 70`s era. I will try to give you a brief history of the most popular cars that were on display this past weekend.

The Dodge Matador was a full-sized automobile produced for the 1960 model year by the Dodge division of the Chrysler Corporation.

The Matador was one of two new models produced by Dodge in 1960 when the marque dropped its long-running Coronet, Custom and Custom Royal models. The Matador was designated Dodge’s full-size base trim vehicle, with the Dodge Polara becoming the make’s full-sized premium model. All Matadors were V8-powered — Chrysler’s Slant Six was not an available option on Dodge’s senior cars in 1960.

The Riviera by Buick is an automobile produced by Buick in the United States from the 1963 to 1999 model years, with 1,127,261 produced. They also came with retractable headlights. Total price was around $3,500.00

A full-size hardtop, a specially trimmed and stretched sedan, or a personal luxury car, the early models of the Riviera in particular have been highly praised by automotive journalists and writers.

A common misconception is that all Rivieras produced after the 1965 model are front wheel drive cars; this is true only of the 1979-1999 models. In contrast, the Riviera’s E-body stablemates, the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado (subsequent to its change in platform in 1967), were always front-wheel drive.

The first-generation Chevrolet Camaro appeared on September 26, 1966, for the 1967 model year on an all brand new rear-wheel drive GM F-body platform and would be available as a 2-door, 2+2 seat, coupe or convertible with a choice of six-cylinder and V8 powerplants. The first-gen Camaro would last up through the 1969 model year.

The Camaro’s standard drivetrain was a 230 cu in (3.8 L) straight-6 engine rated at 140 hp (104 kW) and backed by a Saginaw three-speed manual transmission. There were 8 (in 67), 10 (in 68), and 12 (in 69) different engines available in 67-69 Camaros. And there were several transmission options. A four-speed manual was optional, replacing the base three-speed. The two-speed “Powerglide” automatic transmission was a popular option in 1967 and 1968 until the three-speed “Turbo Hydra-Matic 350″ automatic became available starting in 1969. The larger Turbo 400 three-speed automatic was an option on SS396 cars.

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo was an American-made two-door coupe introduced for model year 1970, and manufactured over six generations through model year 2007. It was marketed as a personal-luxury coupe through most of its history, with the last model version being classified as a full-sized coupe. When it was discontinued in 2007, it had outlived many competitors that were either discontinued many years earlier or changed in concept to either a four-door sedan or small sport coupe.

The Monte Carlo endured six design generations. The first four (1970–72, 1973–77, 1978–80 and 1981–88) were of a rear-wheel-drive, V8-powered (V6 available beginning in 1978) coupe style, utilizing separate body-on-frame construction. The later rear-wheel-drive generations bucked the trend of unit-body construction, along with smaller engines, that became more prevalent in the early 1980s as automakers downsized their vehicle lines to meet increasing stringent fuel-economy regulations in the aftermath of two energy crises that led to gasoline shortages and skyrocketing pump prices in 1973-74 and 1979-80. Despite those trends, the Monte Carlo remained a popular seller and even regained the SS version (initially offered for 1970-71 with 454 cubic-inch V8) from mid-1983 to 1988 with a high-performance 305-cubic-inch V8.

A new generation of the Thunderbird was introduced in 1964, nicknamed the Flair Bird, replaced the prior ‘Bullet Bird.’ In 1965, disc brakes became standard, as were the sequential rear turn signals. The final year of the ‘Flair Bird’ generation was in 1966. Click here to see our complete gallery of cars from the April 5th 2013 car show.

The Ford Mustang is an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. It was initially based on the platform of the second generation North American Ford Falcon, a compact car. Introduced early on April 17, 1964,and thus dubbed as a “1964½” model by Mustang fans, the 1965 Mustang was the automaker’s most successful launch since the Model A. The Mustang has undergone several transformations to its current fifth generation.

The Mustang created the “pony car” class of American automobiles—sports car-like coupes with long hoods and short rear decks—and gave rise to competitors such as GM’s Chevrolet Camaro, AMC’s Javelin, as well as Chrysler’s revamped Plymouth Barracuda and the first generation Dodge Challenger. The Mustang is also credited for inspiring the designs of coupés such as the Toyota Celica and Ford Capri, which were imported to the United States.

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
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04.05.13

Car Shows In San Diego

Posted in Total Car Resources at 5:48 am by admin

Save Time and Money with CarsDirect!

Happy Friday everyone! Today, we are off to the much anticipated 9th annual La Jolla Concours D’Elegance. What makes this event special is the display of rare cars like the 1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible shown below:

The La Jolla Concours D’Elegance car show starts today 4/5/2013 and will end on Sunday 4/7/2013. Right up the road in Delmar is another car show which will be much larger featuring about 2500 cars which will range from muscle cars and classics to race cars. At the time of this writing, I`m torn between both events so I`ll just attend both. Because of our great weather here in San Diego, the crowds are expected to be several thousand attending both events. The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance features various types of fine automobile gems. … marques, British marques, woodies, 50s classics, American sports cars and more. Next week we will post the best in show in each of the classes presented.

Awards will be given to the top three cars in each class. All entries are eligible to compete for the Best of Show, Reserve Best of Show and other special awards. Special Awards include:

Best in Show
Reserve Best in Show
Keith Martin’s Sports Car Market, Spirit of Motoring Award
Philip Wichard Memorial Trophy awarded for excellence in design
Peoples’Choice Award “It’s a Duesy”
The San Diego Auto Museum Directors Choice Award
Robert Turnquist Award for most outstanding Packard
Honorary Judges Choice
Most Elegant, pre-war
Most Elegant, post-war
La Jolla Historical Society Preservation Award
Art of Restoration Trophies

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
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04.02.13

How Fast Does Your Car Go?

Posted in sports cars, Total Car Resources at 10:25 am by admin

Given money to spend and a world of options when selecting a car, every car enthusiast goes for one option—getting a sports car. In the world of sports cars, however, there stands the basic criteria of speed, speed, speed, and, well, speed. Feel free to comment below on the type of car you own and the top speed. For instance, I own a 2003 Lexus IS300 with a max speed of 160MPH.

The fastest sports car according to various critics is the 1994 Dauer 962 LeMans, with acceleration speed of 2.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. The fastest Ferrari car is the 2002 Ferrari ENZO, and this one can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph at breakneck speed of 3.5 seconds. Other fast cars include a Chevrolet, a Dodge, a LeBlanc, a Renault, an Audi, and a Corvette, all of which have acceleration speeds of not more than 2.9 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. The 2013 Hennessey Venom GT boast a top speed of 278 MPH.

Now, the question that begs answering is: what makes a fast sports car?

Shelby SuperCars, a brand of car better known for its replicas of exotic cars, is founded by Jerod Shelby. While by no means connected to the legendary Carroll Shelby, Jerod have somehow managed to create a legend of his own, thanks to his creation, the SSC Ultimate Aero. Prior testing at a NASA facility at Virginia uncovers that the Ultimate Aero is capable of achieving speeds of more than 250 mph. But of course, it has to be sent to a track to test if it got what it takes to beat the Bugatti Veyron’s speed record.

While stylistics make for a very good standard when getting a sports car, there’s more to the sleekness than just style. The very sleek and streamlined designs of these fast sports cars actually contribute to fantastic aerodynamics—making it much easier to drive the car fast without worrying about air resistance, air pressure, etc. In effect, the hot and sexy car design actually makes for more than aesthetics, but gives a boost to the speed and performance of the car.

Another feature that contributes to the speed of the car is its reduced weight. It’s evident in the reduced cargo capacity of a sports car. Luckily, this isn’t much of an issue with sports car enthusiasts. Related to cargo capacity and reduced weight is the fact that some sports cars may have smaller seating capacities, and usually are characterized by firmer, tighter rides, compared to the more spacious and comfortable rides offered by sports utility vehicles or sedans.

A last consideration in speed, however, is its general dynamics which include handling and drag when driving. A sports car has very little value if it cannot sustain its straight-line speeds when driving in tight curbs and ends up crushed after it hit a dead end. It is for this precise reason that even the fastest sports cars are usually rear-wheel driven rather than front-wheel driven, because of the fact that the rear-wheel drive provides greater traction and allows for the weight to be distributed evenly as the car makes a turn.

While there’s more to a sports car than just speed, it also doesn’t hurt that your sports car is fast. After all, the 1994 Dauer 962 LeMans is prized precisely because it rises above the speeds of every other fast sports car.

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
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03.28.13

Your Car is Under Surveillance

Posted in Total Car Resources at 10:38 am by admin

Just when you thought that it was safe behind the steering wheel of your own large automobile , federal government attorneys are attempting once again to keep track of your activities .

Back in the year 2011 , the Supreme Court ruled against the Justice Department declaring that warrantless GPS tracking by government agencies amounted to unreasonable search and was thereby protected by the constitution . The case involved law enforcement that had monitored the location of a suspect’s SUV , a modern-day version of GPS eavesdropping .

Nevertheless , yesterday , a U .S . Assistant District Attorney at an appeals court hearing on a completely different case in Philadelphia argued that planting a GPS device on a suspect’s vehicle — without a warrant — followed relevant legal precedents .

Troubling as numerous vehicle owners might find the concept of a GPS device transmitting authorities messages with regard to their every movement without having judicial oversight , this specific case is just the tip of the potential iceberg .

A veritable flood of data with regards to motorists — every turn of the wheel , every application of the brakes — is about to be let loose into the open market . ( Numerous privacy advocates think that it’s currently available , because of smart phones . ) And at the moment , there exist few if any kind of laws and regulations protecting personal privacy in this field or for specifying how or for which reasons such information and facts could be used .

To provide you with an indication of what’s to transpire , today at the New York International Auto Show , Ford officially introduced a brand new experimental program which will enable research workers to gain access to not only basic car diagnostic data , but additionally information regarding driver behavior patterns that had been until recently limited to , well , just to the car . The concept would be to assist developers create revolutionary safety , fuel economy , as well as personalization features . You might be alerted that there’s black ice ahead , as an example , based upon the data sent from other vehicles in front of you on the road . Or maybe a dashboard device can inform you of methods to improve fuel economy ( reduce speed and avoid traffic ahead ) .

No final products will come of the Ford program without the automaker’s authorization ( a different agreement with the company must be made before any kind of product hits the real-world ) . Nevertheless , the open source initiative — the very first of its kind — provides a glance at a future whereby information and facts such as overly aggressive braking , quick steering wheel turns , and wiper blade activity are all shared among commercial app developers and companies .

Drivers are particularly sensitive with regards to sharing this kind of information . There’s something extremely personal about the American automobile , or even smaller perceived violations of this status are met with opprobrium . Witness the response from owners when GM chose to change its OnStar terms and conditions with amendments that would permit it to sell driving data to outside companies .

The response of GM owners was vociferous , to say the least , and GM found themselves backtracking . Ford is clearly aware about GM’s public relations missteps , and Ford reps emphasize that the company is super sensitive to these concerns . It really wants to concentrate on safety and fuel economy , providing for instance , driving tips ( you didn’t come to a full stop at that sign ) as well as recommendation ( you’re accelerating way too hard and also wasting gasoline ) .

Although the private market might be sensitive to consumer’s concerns — and any potential backlash — government agencies do not need to be as receptive . They want to have the ability to make use of all available technology to stop crime . Already , video cameras in a lot cities and towns , such as Tiburon , California , record , track , and examine every license plate that comes into their municipalities . LPR or license plate readers are very common , so why stop there ? GPS tracking might seem relatively innocuous in comparison .

Preventing criminal activity is no doubt a praiseworthy objective , but randomly searching every residence is not permitted . So too should the warrantless usage of these kinds of digital tools to maintain a record of our movements be unconstitutional .

The Supreme Court final decision about this issue hinged partially on people’s expectation of privacy ( citing an article by this reporter on the topic ) . We clearly do things behind the wheel ( singing off-key to an Adele song or swearing similar to a truck driver ) that we probably would not do in public . On the other hand , the 20-something crowd that’s been raised with Web cams and smart phones that record our movements and messages seems significantly less concerned about privacy . Therefore if more and more people expect less privacy , could this right evaporate ?

There are actually a number of bills before Congress designed to prevent just anyone , such as a private detective or security firm , from tracking you with a GPS device . The Geolocational Privacy and Surveillance Act ( H .R . 1312 ) , introduced in the House by Jason Chaffetz ( R-Utah ) and in the Senate by Ron Wyden ( D-Ore . ) and Mark Kirk ( R-Ill . ) , would restrict such use and also require warrants . It’s extremely important in light of the fact that in the near future every car is going to be equipped with a black box which could contain a wealth of such information .

Yet even without legislation or court rulings , criminals will soon catch on and adopt measures to stymie police monitoring . GPS jammers are illegal but cheap and readily available , for example . Therefore any individual with bad intentions could still evade the authorities . Meanwhile , the rest of us would still be followed along the open road .

Dear Total Car Resources readers: If Total Car Resources is useful to you, take one minute to keep it online another year by donating $1 or more with credit card or PayPal. We pride ourselves on bringing you up to date original content that you will not find anywhere else on the web! Our readers spend an average of 30 minutes per day reading our articles! Please help us forget fundraising and get back to work. Thank you, from Total Car Resources. Please help.

2013 will be filled with great incentives to new car buyers. Most manufacturers are giving away anywhere from $2,000.00 to $7,500.00 cash rebates on newer models! Remember, to find the best deals, go to the top of this page and search Cars Direct to find a dealer near you. Keep informed on all the latest car news by subscribing below. I have been in the car business for over 30 years, so please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.

Name the year,make and model of the car below to win a pair of tickets to the next Auto Show in your area!

© 2013 David Bowie

(619)481-4290
Submit Articles To The Editor

Your email:
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