latest hot cars blog: March 2011

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2010 images

Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2010

Ladies and Gents, say hello to the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta. Then say goodbye. Because although Alfa Romeo says this car is slated to reach “all major markets,” apparently that doesn’t include North America.

Following its public unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show last month, Alfa has finally released full details and a whole slew of photos of the new five-door sport-hatch. And whether it makes it Stateside or not, this stands to be a pivotal, make-it or break-it product for the stoic Italian marque that celebrates its centenary this year.

Aside from this being a new Alfa – which is reason enough for many to sit up and pay attention – what you’re looking at here is Italy’s chief contender for the coveted Ford Focus/Volkswagen Golf segment. And quite a contender it is, from the looks of things.

The Giulietta is the second new vehicle Alfa has introduced to replace the long-serving 147 hatchback, joining the three-door MiTo in anchoring the brand’s range while reviving a classic nameplate for the marque. Stylistically, it’s also the third model to follow the company’s newest design direction, following the lead set by the flagship 8C Competizione and the aforementioned MiTo. And while the styling may have lost some fans in its transition from supercar to supermini, it appears to translate better to the Giulietta’s longer frame better.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2010

Saturday, March 12, 2011

Honda FCX Clarity photos

Honda FCX Clarity

Giant car maker Honda is set to release its new zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity, in the United States starting in Southern California and expanding rollout as fuel cell stations are created. Using just hydrogen and electricity, the output is obvious: only water and none of the gases believed to induce global warming. First customers to look into that direction, probably trying to set a trend, are actress Jamie Lee Curtis and filmmaker husband Christopher Guest, actress Laura Harris, film Fn Jon Spallino and Jim Salomon. The Japanese automaker is expecting to lease a “few dozen” units this year and about 200 units over three years with prices of $600 a month for a three year leass, which includes maintenance and collision coverage. At least that’s in California! Not a very bad deal, I’d say. According to the company, Honda FCX Clarity has a 270-miles per tank range, with hydrogen consumption equivalent to 74 miles per gallon and pretty good specs, reaching up to 100 miles per hour. “This is indeed a historic day for both Honda and American Honda – a new chapter in our nearly 50-year history in America,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of America Honda Motor Co. “It’s an especially significant day for American Honda as we plant firm footsteps toward the mainstreaming of fuel cell cars.” Biggest drawback in taking the new Honda FCX Clarity mainstream is the lack of hydrogen fuel stations and Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California, has called for a statewide network of hydrogen stations. However, things are slow! A couple of days ago Clean Energy announced partnership with General Motors Corp to open a hydrogen station in Los Angeles. Can you imagine the lines that will form to fuel your new Honda? Or Toyota, who recently announced their FCHV hydrogen car.