Researchers at the University of Warwick recently contacted us to present their latest developments in car diagnostic systems. The teams from Warwick’s International Automotive Research Centre have been working with Jaguar Cars in new systems that could eventually allow a car to solve mechanical and electrical faults on its own.

A self-healing car would not only cut down on rising manufacturer warranty costs and boost resale value, but it would also deliver a less stressful ownership experience giving the driver added peace of mind that should a problem arise the car can heal itself.

If you think this is all just science fiction you would be wrong. According to researchers, these new systems could be in cars within the next five years. You can watch the video we’ve attached for more details.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI2DB-e5jHA

Lotus is about to change everyone’s thinking when it comes to plugin electric vehicles. The APX Lotus concept shown at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show will go into production in the not to distant future under the ZAP-X brand. It’s an all-wheel-drive all-electric crossover with an extremely lightweight aluminum chassis. It’ll go from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds and all 644 horses are delivered by in-hub electric motors. Even more amazing is the new advanced battery management system that delivers a 350-mile range, and only takes 10 minutes to recharge! Above is a recent video of the ZAP-X from the floor of the NADA (National Auto Dealers Association) show in Las Vegas, Nevada.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCP9Nl398eI

On March 28, 269 MINIs gathered in Blackpool, England to set a new Guinness World Record for the “longest MINI convoy in the world”, breaking a record that was previously set by 195 cars from the Vancouver MINI club in 2004. The YouTube video above is a photo collage from the event. Looks like great fun!

 

Universal Motoring History Limited is pleased to announce the launch of a major new motoring film archive which can be viewed and owned by car enthusiasts across the globe. Continue Reading »
The worlds most comprehensive motoring film archive now available to car enthusiasts everywhere

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ICQpw1LOTU

Yesterday Connaught Motor Company announced a new global manufacturing and R&D headquarters for production of their new Connaught Type-D V10 sportscar, which is on track for full production in 2008. This is a remarkable project for such a new sportscar manufacturer, but it certainly makes it easier when your team of designers and engineers are made up of ex-Jaguar talent as well as other motor industry professionals. Above is a short film which gives a behind the scenes look at the Type-D project and the designers and engineers who are working diligently to bring the Type-D to market.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6ijHVPwxFA

Above is the first roadtest of Land Rovers new Defender. For 2007 this 4×4 workhorse gets a new 2.4L four-cylinder turbo diesel (TD4) borrowed from the commercial Ford Transit van in Europe as well as a new interior and dash similar to Discovery 3 (LR3 for those in the USA). This video was shot in the Arctic Circle as Land Rover Owner International’s Editor tested the Landy for their Spring issue.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_b4np_0PH6M

Ah the 80’s and the Jaguar XJ6 Series III. There’s no denying how classy this car is and it was actually produced up until 1992. At the end of it’s production years the Series III was only available with a V12, not many people know that. The XJ6 Series III is also one of Jeremy Clarkson’s favorite autos. Surprising TopGear hasn’t featured the Series III XJ. Enjoy this 80’s flashback with Whitesnake and some XJ6 love. Should be okay for work, well maybe not.

http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docId=-6362049015503098435

We think this is one of the best Aston Martin history programs ever. In this episode of Victory By Design host Alain De Cadenet details Aston Martins history starting with the original 1.5L racer up to the latest Vanquish. Some of the most famous AM race cars are also featured as well as detailed history of AM company ownership through the years, which we thought was fitting on the eve of Aston Martins announcement that they’ve been acquired by a consortium led by David Richards of Prodrive. This video is just over an hour long.

Casino Royale is scheduled for DVD and Blu-Ray release on March 13th for Region 1 (North America) and March 19th for Region 2 (Europe). No doubt there will be loads of behind the scenes footage, most likely some Aston Martin DBS action stunts and some great ‘Special Features’ to play around with. Mark your calendar!

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekDPJzWkZpA

Gorgeous Tennis star Maria Sharapova recently joined Land Rover as their new spokeswoman. This video shows Maria choosing her new Range Rover Supercharged and going for a ride on Land Rover Manhattans off-road course. Most Land Rover dealers have an off-road test track located in front but Land Rover Manhattan has an off-road track atop their nine-story building. This video also has interviews and lots of after party footage. Cool video worth watching. It’s about 8 minutes long.