Road Trip Essentials

1. First Aid Kit - If you don't already have a First Aid Kit in your car be sure to take one for your road trip. Accidents happen all the time, it is always good to be prepared for them. Be sure that your First Aid Kit everything from bandages to pain killers. 
2. Maps, Mapquest, Navigation system - If you don't have a built-in navigation system installed then you can always use your smart phone which is a great tool and often most used.But just case your phone doesn't get reception take a road map just in case. Always better to be safe than sorry. 
3. Travel APP- Most of us have smart phones already so all you have to do is search for the best travel apps that will help you for your road trip. One app I do love is the Yelp app, I am able find the nearest restaurants and able to read the reviews to chose the best one. Be sure to add some entertainment apps, such as quizzes, puzzles and games to keep the non-drivers occupied. 
4. Spare keys!- Now this is something you don't want to leave home with out! Triple AAA can always get inside your car if you lock your keys inside your car, but if you lose them that's a whole different story. Personally, I lost my car keys when I was on a road trip, it was a horrible experience and I was 4 hours away from home. Thank goodness I had a friend who was willing to drive half way to give me my spare keys. It was a lesson learned. You could always call a locksmith, but that is going to cost money and time. 
5. Spare Tire - You should already have a spare tire in your trunk, if you don't then you should get one as soon as possible especially for your road trip! If you do have a spare tire make sure it's in condition. The last thing you want is a bad spare tire. 
6. Car Maintenance -  Be sure you check your car before your road trip. Make sure that your oil has been changed and tires have been check. A little tune up before the road trip always helps and will give you peace of mind. 
7. Comfy Clothes - Road trips can take hours, so you want to be sure that your wearing comfy clothes. Also be sure to bring a pillow and blankets for those road trip naps. And don't forget comfy foot wear. 
8. Toiletries - Not every restroom is the same and not all are clean, so be sure to pack lysol, toilet seat covers and hand sanitizer. Pack at least two rolls of toilet paper and wipes, sometimes your pit stop can be hours away. Be sure to pack your portable tooth brush, toothpaste and all the essentials to bath. Keep paper towels in sight, they always come in handy. 
9. Jumper Cables & Car Charger - Even though your car maybe fairly new you still want to pack jumper cables, things happen and you want to be prepared for the unexpected. Or you never know if you might need to help someone else along the way. Also don't forget to pack an extra car charger and an auxiliary cord. The last thing you want is for you phone to die while your listening to music and using maps to get to your destination. Extra charger that way more than one person can charge their phone, we all know that we cannot live with out phone. 
10. Have Fun - Last but not least don't forget to have fun and enjoy your road trip. Things don't always go according to plan so when things don't go according to plan, don't get mad. Simply just brush the negative and focus on the positive. If you keep focusing on the negative more negative things will happen. Don't bring your worries with you, leave them at home. Road trips are a great way for you to reflect about your life, but don't bring your worries with you. Instead reflect on all the positive that has happened in your life. And if you get lost along the way, remember that getting lost is a good way to find yourself. 

5 Simple Ways To Boost Your Fuel Economy

Summer is upon us and that means time for beach trips, road trips, camping and much more! Unfortunately, this also means the rise in gas prices. However, there is a fuel simple ways boost your fuel economy and enjoy those summer activities.

 1. Change Your Oil Regularly

Old engine oil equals lower fuel economy. According to EPA, you can improve your gas mileage by 1%-2% by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. For example, using 10W-30 motor oil in and engine designed to use 5W-30 can lower your gas mileage by 1%-2%. Changing your oil when it's suppose to be changed is not only important for the maintenance of your car, but also boosts your fuel economy. Be sure to use the oil recommended for your vehicle.

2. Stop Carrying Unnecessary Weight

It's time to clean your trunk and get rid of what you don't use or need.  Having unnecessary weight in your vehicle wastes fuel. So get rid of the extra clothes, school books, sporting equipment, etc. The U.S. Department of Energy says to avoid keeping heavy items in your car; an extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could increase your gas costs by up to $.0.07 cents per gallon. Remember that the less weight your car carries, the more your gas mileage will improve.


3. Aggressive Driving Equals Lower Fuel Economy

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, aggressive driving, such as speeding, rapid acceleration and hard breaking can lower your gas mileage by up to 33% and your city mileage by 5%!
Most of us become aggressive drivers when we are running late. A great way to avoid aggressive driving is give yourself time. Do what you can the night before, like prepping your lunch or choosing your outfit. These small preparations can make a 30 minute difference.Give yourself cushion and leave 30 minutes prior to your usual time that you leave to work or school. Getting to work 30 minutes early is better than wasting gas just to get there right on time.

4. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Under-inflated tires affects your gas mileage. According to EPA, you can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3% by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer. Be sure to check your tires often and not just when your going on a road trip.

5. Maintain Your Engine Properly Tuned

It is important to properly maintain your vehicle's engine properly tuned not only for longevity and safety purposes, but also improving your gas mileage. As stated by EPA, fixing your car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of 4%.

Remember a little goes a long way. These five simple ways all together will make a difference. So enjoy summer and don't let gas prices stop you from going places.

Five Great Summer Road Trip Destinations

Now that summer is finally here and school is almost out, what better way to spend it than with your family on a road trip. Here are five great destinations to chose from.

Destination #1 Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is the one place that's a must to visit and perfect for a road trip. The Grand Canyon is breathtaking and is an amazing experience to witness in person.  Although it is peak season during summer, there are some cool events to attend during summer. In the month of June, there is the Grand Canyon Star Party ,where you get to enjoy the beautiful night skies of Arizona. In the month of August, there is the Grand Canyon music festival, where you can experience world-class music. A great way to keep cool in the heat is to go river rafting down the Colorado River. It's a great way to see the Grand Canyon at a different level. According to Wilderness River Adventures, rafting down the Colorado River is unimaginable beautiful scenery, the dramatic contrast of calm waters preceding the thrill of whitewater.

                                                                                    Destination #2 Yosemite

Yosemite is wonderful place with it's beautiful waterfalls, deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias and vast wilderness areas. In Yosemite Village are shops, restaurants, the Yosemite Museum and the Ansel Adams Gallery, offering prints of the photographer's renowned black and white landscapes of the area.Yosemite is great place to camp and explore. It is also a great place to view wild life in their natural habitat. It is definitely a worth while road trip. There are so many activities to do in Yosemite, be sure to plan ahead to make the most out of your trip.



Destination #3 Salvang

Salvang is an interesting place to visit with its Danish-styled town and its European feel. The drive alone to Salvang is beautiful. Salvang has an excellent selection of  restaurants to choose from and bakery's filled yummy danish treats that will make your taste buds go wild. If your a wine lover, Salvang is the place to visit with so many wineries to chose from. Each winery has their own unique way of how they grow their grapes and how they make their wine, you will have a great time touring the different wineries. More of a beer lover than wine lover? Salvang has breweries that you will enjoy with an excellent selection of craft beer.

                                                                                 
                                                                                     Destinations # 4 Red Wood Forest

Visit American History at the Red Wood Forest, where nature is preserved. The Red Wood National and State Park offers more than just the Red Wood Forest. According to the National Park Service you can  discover Howland Hill Road, explore Enderts Beach and Crescent Beach Overlook, Drive to Klmath River Overlook, travel to Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, investigate Davison Road where Rooselvelt elk hang out in Elk Meadow, and be sure to stop at Kuchel Visitor Center one mile south of Orick.
                                                                                             
                                                                                   
Destination # 5 Southwest's Four Corners

Be at four places at once and visit Southwest's four corners. If you take a trip to Southwest's Four Corners, at the intersection you can be at the corners of Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado all at once. Now isn't that neat! According to John Rosental from National Geographic, the Four Corners is far too prosaic of a name for the strikingly beautiful territory that respects no man-made boundaries in the southwestern United States. Rosental adds, this landscape took thousands of years to create; you'll never appreciate it at 65 miles (105 kilometers) per hour. He mentions, instead, take two days at least, stopping to walk through the numerous parks, preserves, monuments, and unnamed places whose beauty defies categorization. Begin your voyage in Flagstaff, Arizona, here you will observe exquisite views of the Painted Desert. Next drive through the iconic backdrop of Monument Valley. Last, make your way toward Mexican Water, where the four states intersect.

Once you select a destination, be sure to do research before heading there. Make a list of activities you and your family would like to do. Be sure to get an oil change and check your tires before heading to your destination. Some of these road trips may take hours so be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water. If you are planning on going to the Grand Canyon or Southwest's Four corners be sure to take comfy shoes, sun block, hat, sun glasses and a camel pack or hydration pack to keep you hydrated. Most important thing to do at any of these destinations is to have a good time!

We Sell Experience

At STG Auto Group we don't just sell cars; we sell experience, freedom, luxury, engineering and much more. We have a car for everyone's unique taste, whether your a person who likes the outdoors, has the need for speed or has a family, we have the car for you.

Here at STG, we provide the opportunity to acquire the car of your dreams at low cost. From the moment we purchase our cars there's a lot of care and maintenance that goes into it. Our 180-point inspections and warranties will allow you peace of mind. The reputation of high customer loyalty our and extensive inventory has carried St. George Auto Sales for a over a decade. Known for our integrity and low-pressure environment.

Our online website makes it easy and convenient for you to choose the car you want with out having the to come in. You can even chat online with one of our Sales Representatives about the car you are interested in. You will find our website quite useful.

What's great about STG is that we do Auto Sales, Auto Finance, Auto Insurance and Auto Service all under one roof. We are a one stop shop car dealership that you will love.

Ryan and Tony Bacily started St. George Auto Sales in 1997. Our business is named aftger St. George, which is a Saint in the Romanian army in the Coptic Orthodox Church. St. George is a family owned and operated business.  After 17 years, STG Auto Group is still a family owned and operated business, which continues to grow everyday!  This family owned business welcomes your family with open arms. Come in today, get the car of your dreams and experience with St, George Auto Sales because we want you to experience life to the fullest with the car of your dreams.

Vehicle Spot Light of the Month

For the month of May the car we wanted to high light is the 2015 BMW M4. Now, what's great about STGAutoGroup is that because we have a large inventory and have a wide selection of models, we adopt some of the most unique cars. One car in particular that we have in our inventory is the 2015 BMW M4 Coupe.

Why is this car so special?
For one, the M4 is the newest addition to BMW's line of M performance coupes and according to CarAndDriver it lives up to the legends that preceded it. What's also great about the BMW M4 is that the power comes from a 425-hp twin-turbo inline six-cylinder mated to either a six-speed manual or a paddle-shifted seven-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. Our BMW M4 is paddle-shifted seven-speed automatic. In a mission to shave weight, many of the M4's components are made of carbon fiber-including the drive shaft. As reported by Mike Sutton from CarAndDriver, the new BMW M4 is packed with enough bits and bytes for the M faithful to seriously question what the Ultimate Driving Machine has become.

BMW exceeds efficiency here is the break down according to them.

Let's talk Aerodynamics
Comprehensive coordinated aerodynamic elements optimize driving dynamics and control in M vehicles, especially at high speeds.
According to BMW, the striking front apron visually embodies the M vehicles's specific aerodynamics concept. On the racetrack, large air inlets ensure perfect cooling of the engine, charge air, oil and brakes, as well as cooling of the transmission oil in the M DCT. The two vertical inlets in the Air Curtain and the side M gills with integrated Air Breather behind the wheel arches create an accelerated flow of air around the front wheels.

Brake Energy Regeneration
Every time the brakes are hit, kinetic energy is generated and until recently this energy went unused. Brake Energy Regeneration takes advantage of this long-overlooked potential. It harnesses the coasting energy that is generated whenever the driver brakes or takes his or her foot off the accelerator and turns it into electricity.

Automatic Start/Stop function
The Automatic Start/Stop function switches the engine off when the vehicle comes to a temporary standstill (e.g. at traffic lights or in a traffic jam) to further reduce overall fuel consumption. When the driver presses down on the clutch (manual transmissions) or takes their foot off the brake (M DCT Drivelogic), the engine automatically starts up again in a fraction of a second.


The BMW M4 model is truly a unique model and offers great features. BMW continues to take engineering to the next level. Now come test drive our 2015 BMW M4.

For more information about our 2015 BMW M4 you can check our website and click on view inventory. Website Link STGAutoGroup

Check out this video of the BMW M4 in action on the race track
 BMWM4Action 

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Instant classic: 2015 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe

Our long-term Jaguar F-Type R coupe is special. We have never known a modern car to be as broadly appealing as this one. It’s beautiful and everyone knows it—people are not shy with praise for it. We took it up to Rare Bird Brew Pub in Traverse City, Mich., for a party and spent much of the night starting that barking, burbling supercharged V8, letting people sit in the leather seats and watching them snap photos.

Where lots of sports cars, especially high-performance versions, can be over styled, the F-Type R is beautifully restrained. That may be part of why it appeals to such a wide range of people. It’s pretty but not showy. Of the sports/performance cars that are said to be styled in homage to their forebears, the F-Type is the most successful. It doesn’t insult the E-Type by aping it entirely or mock it by having come to dwarf it over the years. This car calls the E-Type to mind. Ian Callum and his team noticed the small, wonderful details of the that car and, with the F-Type, named them. 

Our long-termer was given a set of Pirelli Winter 240 Sottozero tires, and in the snow with these tires, the Jaguar is a wonder. Five hours on the icy freeway or slogging through unplowed surface streets in deep snow, the Jag was always able, always predictable. One morning, we found the car buried to the top of its decklid in snow. We just slid into the lovely driver’s seat, cleared the windshield and drove out. We wish people who are clamoring for the forthcoming all-wheel-drive F-Type could have seen it. This rear-wheel Jag would not be stopped.

With two quarters now done, we’re definitely going to miss this one when it’s gone. It’s a very special car, and if Jaguar’s plans hold, one that we won’t see again. Next year, all of the V8-powered F-Types will all come equipped with AWD, making this car possibly the last of its kind and a bit of an instant classic. Thankfully, we have six more months with it before we have to give up the keys. 

2015 Ford Mustang RTR Revealed

Pro drifter Vaughn Gittin, Jr. is finally ready to drop his racy new Mustang RTR. The car debuts at SEMA and will be available via select Ford dealers, and it looks the business. Frankly, the 2015 Mustang’s biggest issue is that, if anything, it doesn’t look mean enough. Problem solved! The RTR gets new spoilers, splitters, a pretty wicked-looking diffuser, new grilles—with illumination in the upper one, making up for the sadly departed driving lamps—and the best-looking wheels I’ve seen for that car, period. All the appearance stuff is for the Spec 1 cars, which leave out performance mods. The Spec 2 adds an RTR-specific tune, Magnaflows (again, RTR-specific), a revised suspension, a cold-air kit, and an optional blower. Also making its way to SEMA, but not yet revealed, is an even more extreme RTR Spec 5 concept, which takes the formula even further. Stay tuned.

Startech Turns Range Rover into Haute Couture Pickup

Some of the weirdest tuner projects are answers to unasked questions. In this respect, Startech, the sister operation to Brabus, has delivered.

Built for display at the Shanghai auto show, and available to deep-pocketed bored guys, the Startech Pickup is what happens when you break out the Homelite and turn a Range Rover Supercharged from an SUV into an SUT. The El Camino–fication process involves the removal of the rear portion of the Rangie’s roof, the installation of a new bulkhead (with tinted, heated glass) behind the back seats, new carbon-fiber trim on the C-pillar and bed rail, and a lined cargo area.

A new roof spoiler works in concert with the surrounding cargo-bed trim to reduce wind turbulence. This is important when you consider that Startech says “customers from the Arab region like to use the pickup bed also for transporting a securely fastened cage that holds their falcons for the hunt.” Presumptuous, considering that this particular subset of customers probably has up fitted AMG 6×6s for this purpose already. But it’s nice to know the Startech Pickup is literally designed to not ruffle feathers. The tuner also points out that the bed, with its 43-inch length (67 inches with the tailgate dropped) “offers plenty of space for golf or other recreational equipment.” Because Lord knows that your clubs are far too constrained in an enclosed Range Rover cargo bay.

Naturally, the pickup bed is just part of a larger package of enhancements. The truck sports a wide-body kit, 23-inch wheels wrapped in 305/30 rubber, an air-suspension module that lets the owner drop ride height an additional 1.2 inches over stock, and a custom leather-and-Alcantara interior. While the show car is based on the blown Range Rover—now juiced up to 519 horsepower thanks to a Startech sport exhaust whose loudness can be controlled from the cockpit—the conversion can be applied to a naturally aspirated Range Rover model. As a bonus, the truck bed may, in some countries, allow this rig to be registered as a commercial vehicle, saving the owner money in various taxes and fees compared to a traditional SUV. Because as we all know, guys who buy Range Rovers and have them customized into pickup trucks ideal for hauling live falcons are really sweating those registration costs.

Weekly Recap: Aston Martin to add another sports car, new Lagonda sedan, EVs

Aston Martin will revamp and expand its lineup as part of a five-year plan laid out by the company's new executives. If it succeeds, the strategy will position Aston for growth as an independent automaker with a more stable future in its second century. Aston will replace all of the cars in its current lineup and add a fourth sports car to its stable. It currently has three: the DB9, Vanquish and Vantage. The unnamed sports car will be joined by a production version of the DBX concept – an all-wheel-drive electric car that treads near crossover territory – that was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. Aston's electric strategy also includes a potential electric-powered Rapide. Eventually, Aston plans to build a new four-door Lagonda. Though Aston will diversify its portfolio and the range could expand to seven vehicles, it will limit production to around 7,000 units annually, said Aston Martin marketing and communications director Simon Sproule, who described the company's strategy in an interview with Autoblog. CEO Andy Palmer, who joined Aston last year from Infiniti, has also spoken recently about remaking the company for the future. EVs are a major part of Aston's future, Sproule stressed, because they allow the automaker to "balance" its portfolio. Aston is studying the feasibility of an electric Rapide and is working with an undisclosed engineering firm. It's likely to use a plug-in setup and would cost $200,000 to $250,000 or more. It could use either a rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive configuration.

It's a study, but we're serious about it," Sproule said. He added for emphasis: "If not this, there will be an electric Aston Martin in the future." Aston has taken note of what Tesla has done with the brisk-driving Model S and decided that's the dynamic it wants for some of its own cars. Even though EVs don't emit the same sonorous note as a V12 – they're better than the alternative, Sproule said. "The sound of silence is much more preferable than the sound of a four-cylinder whining away under the hood of an Aston Martin," he said. Speaking of V12s, they're not going away. Aston will continue to make its own V12 engine, but will source its V8 from Mercedes-AMG (whose parent, Daimler, owns a small stake in Aston). While the V12 is sure to please the faithful, Aston admits EVs and the crossover-like DBX will rankle many. Sproule argues those are the moves that will keep Aston relevant. "We've got to do a few of the things the purists won't like, but if we don't – it [Aston] will be this museum piece."

G Class Could Go Sustainable

Recently Daimler’s R&D chief, Thomas Weber, reported that the automaker will continue to produce V-12 engines but won’t do a three-cylinder, that it’s considering a more comprehensive update to the G-class, and that it is not interested in a small seven-seat people-mover. C/D: BMW has shown a compact, seven-seat people-mover with its 2-Series Gran Tourer. Will Mercedes have a competitor? Thomas Weber: It’s true that we considered a seven-seater, but we made a clear choice not to do it, and we are sticking with that decision. There are more impressive ways to transport more than four or five people. And for us, emotion counts.

What are you planning at the other end of the spectrum, with the G-class? We have periodically revisited the idea of ending its production, but this discussion is truly over. The basic concept is established and proven, the only question is how to carry it forward. It’s possible that we will, at some point, put it on a more sustainable technological base. But the G will always remain a true G.

Can you talk about your power train strategy? The path toward downsizing is irreversible. Worldwide, looking at the industry as a whole, more than 90 percent of power trains will have four-cylinder engines. But as a luxury brand, we will continue to offer eight- and 12-cylinder engines, and we are well established with our four- and six-cylinder engines.

Does your four- and six-cylinder engine strategy rely on a single engine architecture? No. Our customers like a variety of models and engines, and we definitely need a large four-cylinder engine, from which six- and eight-cylinder engines will be derived. To build a smaller engine, it would theoretically be possible to “cut off” one cylinder, but such a three-cylinder engine would not even be close to where we would like it from a cost perspective. Moreover, it would not meet our standards for noise and vibration. We have therefore decided to follow a downsizing strategy based on small and large four-cylinder engines.

Will you join forces with other manufacturers to develop battery technology? Within the framework of the NPE (a German platform for e-mobility), we are discussing how to move this important and innovative topic forward. It is definitely possible to harmonize cell formats, material combinations, safety and regulatory aspects—to make things easier for our supplier base and to lower costs. But it becomes more difficult when you look at the whole battery. Every car maker must optimize their batteries for the specific vehicle package and requirements. Do you see a future for battery-charging stations, as propagated by Tesla? The German auto industry has often been criticized as being too obtuse to pick up on them. But we have studied them intensively and found that many arguments speak against these concepts. We have decided not to follow this approach.

Ferrari planning six-cylinder Dino revival?

Ferrari swore up and down when it was developing the California that it wouldn't be an "entry-level" model. Whether that ultimately proved to be the case or not is up for debate, but it seems that the Prancing Horse marque is now preparing to launch a properly more accessible model in the near future.

According to Motor Trend, Maranello is working on a new six-cylinder sports car to serve as the point of entry for new customers – especially in China. Tax implications there could mean the V6 would displace less than 3.0 liters, but likely pack a pair of turbochargers to ensure that output and performance live up to the Ferrari standard.

Tipped to arrive in 2019, the six-cylinder model could materialize as a revival of sorts of the Dino line. Named after Enzo Ferrari's first-born son, the Dino sub-brand used mostly six-cylinder engines to take on the Porsche 911 on and off the track. The Dino 206 GT emerged in 1968, evolved into the larger-displacement 246 the following year and ultimately gave way to the very different, eight-cylinder, four-seat 308 GT4 in 1973, later to be re badged as a proper Ferrari once the Dino brand was put to rest in '76.

It's worth noting that Ferrari developed the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 for the Maserati Ghibli and Quattroporte, which would presumably serve as the basis for the new entry-level Ferrari. Though FCA typically endeavors to keep its brands from competing directly with one another, Maserati is due to release a production version of the Alfieri sports car concept within the next couple of years, powered by that same engine, and could share its underpinnings with the Ferrari model in question.

The six-cylinder Prancing Horse could carry a price tag of around $180,000 to take on the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo, Mercedes-AMG GT, Audi R8 and the Sports Series which McLaren just kicked off with its new entry-level 570S.

Indy returning to Cleveland airport?

The South may be NASCAR country, but in the Midwest, it's all about Indy: this season, the open-wheel series will host two races at Indianapolis, another in Detroit, one in Milwaukee, one in Iowa and one at Mid-Ohio. That's already six out of the sixteen races on the 2015 calendar, but the Buckeye State could be set to host another in the heartland in the near future.

Cleveland's Burke Lakefront Airport on the shores of Lake Eerie hosted Champ Car races every year without exception from 1982 through 2007. The event was a fan favorite, but after the Champ Car World Series re-merged with the Indy Racing League to make today's IndyCar Series, the event was dropped from the calendar. Following an eight-year gap, however, discussions are reportedly underway to bring the race back to the lakeside airport.

According to Racer.com, an undisclosed sponsor approached Gene Haskett with the idea of restoring the race. Haskett had promoted the event between 1983 and 1992, and the company came forth with the idea of providing title sponsorship to put it all together.

Though disinterested in taking up the task, Haskett contacted Roger Penske (who refused due to his involvement with the Belle Isle race), but series owner Mark Miles put them in touch instead with Mike Lanigan (co-owner of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing), who promoted the last Champ Car race in Cleveland and is reportedly keen to bring the race back to the capital of Rock & Roll.

One potential roadblock would be to get the FAA to sign off on closing the airport for the whole weekend, but if they were willing and able to do it before, they can hopefully do it again.

In addition to the six races that are part of this year's calendar, and the Cleveland airport venue, Champ and Indy cars have raced at such Midwestern venues as Chicago Motor Speedway, Chicagoland Speedway, Kansas Speedway, Iowa Speedway, Gateway International Raceway, Michigan International Speedway, the streets of Detroit, the Milwaukee Mile and Road America.

Tesla reports record deliveries of 10,030 cars in 1rst Quarter

(Reuters) -- Tesla Motors Inc. said today it delivered a record 10,030 cars in the first quarter, a 55 percent increase compared with the number of deliveries in the first quarter of last year. The company said going forward it will publish the number of new car deliveries within three days of quarter end as inaccurate sources of information have sometimes been used by others in publishing the number of vehicle deliveries. The company expects to deliver about 55,000 cars globally in 2015, an increase of about 74 percent. The company's stock has been battered this year by investors concerned about the auto maker's failure to hit sales targets in China and the departures last year of two top Tesla executives in that country. Earlier in the week, Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweeted several optimistic statements about the company's sinking China operations. Tesla Motors is also set to offer upgrades including hands-free steering on its Model S sedan in three months, about a year ahead of other automakers. Up to Thursday's close of $191, the stock had fallen 14.1 percent this year.

Smart Fortwo

SECOND-GENERATION SMART FEATURES REDESIGNED REAR SUSPENSION, WIDER FRONT/REAR TRACK

The 2016 Smart Fortwo may have been the only vehicle introduced at the New York auto show that didn't need a turntable. With a turning radius of 22.8 feet, the smart car managed a full U-turn on the elevated stage at the Mercedes display. The second-generation Smart is still 8.8 feet long, but its front and rear tracks are three inches wider, and the De Dion rear suspension has been substantially redesigned. It also comes standard with a new safety feature called Crosswind Assistance. Crosswind Assistance intermittently brakes any of the four wheels to minimize necessary counter-steering in a stiff crosswind. It's active on gentle curves and straights above 50 miles per hour. The next Smart is powered by an 898-cc turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine generating 89 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque. Smart reports a top speed of 96 mph. EPA ratings are pending. 

When it hits showrooms this fall, the Smart Fortwo II will be offered with passion, prime and proxy trim packages, as well as an optional sport package that lowers the car an inch.

About the New York auto show

The spring auto show season concludes with the New York auto show at the Jacob Javits Center. Every year, manufacturers tend to save at least one of their best reveals for last; this year, we're expecting the new Cadillac CT6 flagship sedan, Mercedes GLE SUV and 2016 Hyundai Tucson to show off in the Big Apple. Stay tuned to our New York auto show home page for all the latest news, photos and reveals.

Red Bull makes nice with Renault to focus on 2015

HELMUT MARKO SAYS BOTH SIDES ARE MOVING FORWARD

Red Bull and Renault have put their differences aside, according to Red Bull team boss Dr. Helmut Marko.

 

After Australia, Marko and his Red Bull colleagues let loose their fury with the team's under performing works supplier, Renault.

 

Renault hit back, Cyril Abiteboul going so far as to accuse Red Bull's Adrian Newey of telling "lies."

 

"All of this criticism was due to emotions that were all quite understandable," Marko told Austrian broadcaster Servus TV.

 

"In fact, perhaps the comments themselves were not even so hard, but the translation of Cyril's words from French made it sound very harsh."

Amid reports Red Bull and Renault must surely be heading for divorce, Marko says the two sides have sat down to talk about how to move forward.

 

"We have met," he confirmed, "and decided on how we will work during the remainder of the season.

 

"We do not have to love each other, but we do need an engine that works.

 

"Under the current regulations, it is impossible to close the gap (on) the leaders, but in the past we got used to winning even though our engines were not the most powerful.

 

"At the same time," said Marko, "we can all see what Ferrari has managed to do. According to Renault engineers, we will reach this level by the end of the year and once again be able to fight at the top.

 

"It was decided to postpone the debate and focus on working together to get us out of this situation," he added.

Bentley rear-drive Continental GT3-R?

Coupe, convertible or Flying Spur sedan: no matter what body-style you get, or what engine you specify, the Bentley Continental comes with all-wheel drive. It's been that way since the model line was first introduced a dozen years ago. But that looks poised to change... at least for one notable exception.

According to Auto car, Bentley is all but certain to launch a rear-drive version of the Continental GT3-R sometime next year, ditching the front half of the drive train to cut a good 440 pounds off the curb weight to make it the lightest Continental yet.

The Continental GT3-R launched last year with less weight and more power, along with a stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes and a titanium exhaust. It drew its inspiration from the Continental GT3 racer, but unlike the competition version, kept the AWD drive train in place.

"A lot of people expected the GT3-R to be a proper rear-wheel-drive sports car," Bentley's chief engineer Rolf Frech said to Auto car, "but the problem was timing. We needed the car at the end of the first season of our GT3 racing car, and to do a proper change of the complete power train needed longer than we had. But we have the concept in our mind, so why not?"

Denuded of its all-wheel drive, the Continental GT3-RS – assuming Porsche doesn't mind lending the name to its sister company – would be the most hardcore version of the go-to luxury coupe, and would promise to cut its already blitzkreig 3.6-second 0-60 time down even further. Especially if the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 were tuned to deliver even more than the 572 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque it already kicks out in the existing GT3-R.

Chances are it'd be even less accessible, though: the 99 examples of the Continental GT3-R that are coming to the States out of the 300 total to be made already carry a $337k sticker price, and the rear-drive model would likely push the production:price see-saw even higher to the right.

Mercedes plans to launch its first pickup by 2020

Daimler's Mercedes-Benz unit plans to launch its first pickup truck by 2020, targeting sales at the European, Latin American, Australian and South African markets. Mercedes has not decided yet whether to sell the pickup in the U.S, Volker Mornhinweg, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, told the Wall Street Journal. The pickup will have about 1 metric ton of payload capacity and will be built by Mercedes-Benz's commercial van division. "The Mercedes-Benz pickup will contribute nicely to our global growth targets,” Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche said in a statement Friday. "We will enter this segment with our distinctive brand identity and all of the vehicle attributes that are typical of the brand with regard to safety, comfort, power trains, and value." Mercedes said more and more pickups are being used for private purposes. It also said that commercial as well as private users are increasingly asking for vehicles that have car-like specifications. Luxury rival Lincoln has taken two shots at the U.S. pickup market, the world's biggest. The Lincoln Blackwood delivered fewer than 3,500 U.S. sales during its brief run in 2001-03. The Lincoln Mark LT, viewed as a rival to Cadillac’s Escalade EXT sport-utility pickup, was sold in the United States from 2005 through the 2008 model year. Mark LT sales totaled 36,187. Ford Motor Co., Lincoln's parent, continued to build the Mark LT for the Mexican market through 2013. The Cadillac Escalade EXT, an upscale version of the Chevrolet Avalanche, was introduced in the U.S. in 2001 but discontinued when General Motors launched its current-generation full-sized pickups and SUVs -- code named K2XX. Cadillac sold 72,897 Escalade EXTs in the U.S. between 2001 and January 2015, with deliveries peaking at 13,494 in 2002.  

German push 

Mercedes-Benz's plans to enter the pickup market underscore a push by German premium automakers that have built their reputations on refined sedans to enter segments traditionally dominated by mass-market competitors as they compete for volume. After SUVs became popular years ago, the addition of a pickup would open a new front in the battle among Germany's premium brands for the No. 1 spot in luxury car sales. Mercedes, the world's third-largest premium automaker, plans to overtake Audi and market leader BMW in sales by the end of the decade. The race for the lead has prompted Audi to roll out the A1 subcompact hatchback and BMW to add the 2-series Active Tourer and 2-series Gran Tourer compact minivans. Volkswagen launched a similar pickup strategy to Daimler's several years ago with the Amarok. Its commercial van business developed and built the midsize pickup in Argentina for Latin America and Europe, while avoiding the U.S. market and its punitive"chicken tax." The tax imposes a 25 percent duty on goods such as light trucks  imported into the U.S. in retaliation for tariffs on U.S. chickens once imposed by several European nations.

Easter Jeep Safari

Every year, the Easter Jeep Safari takes over Moab, Utah, and brings with it a host of new concepts from Jeep. 

For 2015, seven custom concepts have been put together by the brand. Many of the parts used are currently available through Mopar, though some are prototypes. A small team of dedicated engineers put together this group of custom Jeeps, each one of which is fully functional.

This Wrangler-based concept is inspired by the 1970s Jeep Cherokee and is tailored to fit the west-coast surfer lifestyle. Finished in Ocean Blue, the Chief gets a custom razor grille that was made famous by the original Wagoneer, halogen headlights, removable sides, chrome front and rear bumpers and 17-inch slotted mag wheels.

Two inches were taken off the doors and windshield, while the Chief has been lifted by two inches and fitted with Dana 44 locking axles, a cold air intake and Rubicon rock rails. Power comes from the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 mated to a six-speed manual.

Inside, pink, blue and white flowered cloth along with leather wrap the seats while surf stickers dot the center console and door handles. The front-passenger handle has been replaced with Rosewood and of course the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen is present.

A salute to the legendary military Jeeps, this Wrangler-based concept comes fitted with basic steel wheels, small fender flares, a stretched canvas roof and bench seats. A Sandstorm paint finish keeps the exterior true Jeep’s military heritage, just like the removal of the doors and b-pillars. Round headlights, Jeep J8 front and rear bumpers, fender-mounted blackout lamps and a rear-mounted spare tire and gas can complete the look.

A little added performance comes from Dana 44 locking axles and a two-inch lift.

The interior features just two bench seats along with an integrated roll cage and a painted steel floor.  An integrated cooler is also built in to this concept, made from an old wooden artillery box.

Power for the staff car also comes from the Pentastar V6 hooked through a six-speed manual.

Jeep wants to go on safari with the Wrangler Africa. A high-clearance steel front bumper with a winch, power step rock rails, a vented hood and an exteneded rear body with a high-top roof prepare this concept for duty. Fender-mounted fuel cans, 17-inch body color steel wheels and big 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires complete this concept.

Power comes from a 2.8-liter diesel engine hooked to an automatic transmission. A two-inch lift kit complete with Fox shocks and Dana 44 axles are found on the Africa, while the cargo area, inner roof and floor are all coated with a spray-in truck bedliner.

The Overlander is based on the Grand Cherokee and is meant to show the SUVs capability for off-roading and camping. A one-off front fascia, tow hooks, flared fenders, SRT taillights and hood, off-road rock rails and skid plates make sure that the Overlander is ready to get you into the wilderness.

On the roof, a two-person hard-shell tent is fitted and ready to keep you protected in the wild.

A 3.0-liter V6 diesel powers this concept.

Jeep didn’t forget about the new Renegade compact crossover when it was putting together these concepts. Called the Desert Hawk, this special edition gets off-road rock rails, a skid plate, a hood decal that shows the Fins and Things Moab trail in detail and is finished in Desert Tan.

Inside, Mopar Katzkin seat covers are found along with body color bezels and Mopar all-weather floor mats.

Power is delivered by a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine hooked to a nine-speed automatic.

This Cherokee is ready to tackle Moab thanks to JPP off-road rock rails, a two-piece fuel tank skid plate, two-piece underbody skid plate, oil pan and front suspension skid plates, along with concept 17-inch painted wheels with BF Goodrich All Terrain T/A tires.

The Canyon Trail is finished in Desert Tan, accented by a Satin Black hood with a topographical map decal showing Hell’s Revenge, a famous Moab trail. Inside, Katzkin leather seat covers, embroidered logos on the headrests, body color accents, a cargo tray mat, all-weather floormats and a Moab off-road bag can all be found.

The 2.4-liter Tigershark powers this concept, sending its juice through a nine-speed automatic

Finally, we have the Jeep Wrangler Red Rock Responder. This concept was put together to tackle an emergency situation in a remote area and is packed with spare parts and tools to get the job done. To get there, the Responder packs a four-inch lift, Fox shocks, Dana 60 axles front and rear, a cold-air intake, off-road rock rails and a Warn winch.

Side cargo boxes make sure that the Responder can do its job once it arrives, housing a hi-lift jack, fire extinguisher, road side accessory kit, first aid kit, snap-on tools and a small air compressor complete with air hose and accessories.

Steel front and rear bumpers along with high top fenders are fitted while the Responder Red paint job finishes the look. 17-inch beadlock wheels with a body color beadlock ring are also included.

The Jeep Wrangler Red Rock Responder is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to an automatic transmission.

Spring Time Activities

Now that the weather is warming up, you have the perfect chance to spend some quality time with your family in the great outdoors. There are tons of activities to do this spring that don’t require torturing fish or other animals for “sport” or using them for food. Here are my favorite things to do in spring:

1.) Go Camping

Find the perfect campsite in your area. Make sure that you have a tent and some sleeping bags and bring enough vegan food to last on your trip. And don’t forget the bug repellant. (Try Burt’s Bees Herbal Insect Repellent.)

2.)Go to the Beach

Head off to the nearest beach. Depending on the distance, this excursion could be a daytrip or an entire vacation. Either way, be sure to stock up on animal-friendly sunscreen.

3.)Go Kayaking

If you want to get a good arm workout, kayaking is the activity for you. And when you get tired, you can give the kiddos a turn.

4.)Go Hiking

There are most likely numerous gorgeous hiking spots near you. Why not pack a picnic (try this mock-tuna sandwich recipe), and take your family on a walk in nature. You can use it as a time to talk about the local wildlife and how to protect it.

5.)Fly a Kite

What kid wouldn’t want to fly a kite on a nice windy day? You can even have a competition to see who can go the highest. But be careful around trees! You wouldn’t want to disrupt a bird’s nest unintentionally.

6.)Set Up an Outdoor Scavenger Hunt

This activity may take a little more work, but the kids will love to find clues that you’ve hidden for them. Perhaps you can make it animal-themed!

7.)Go Canoeing

If there’s a lake nearby, you can rent a canoe and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

8.)Take a Bike Ride

You can use your own bikes or rent them. And remember always to be safe by wearing a helmet and other protective gear.

9.)Go Miniature Golfing/

A little putt-putt is the perfect game to teach your children patience.

10.)Start a Garden

The perfect flowers to plant in early spring are pansies, forget-me-nots, and primroses. In late spring, gladiolas, begonias, dahlias, daylilies, and daisies work best. If you’d rather plant vegetables, try tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, squash, beans, and cucumbers in late May.

What are your favorite cruelty-free springtime activities?