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Common Craft Explains Ford’s Microsoft Sync System in 2:54

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For all of its simplicity and technological wizardry, Microsoft’s Sync audio system can be tough to explain to the uninitiated. “Have you ever been experienced,” Jimi sang … and though, well, I have … I’ve had a tricky time concisely explaining exactly how Sync works in the past. Thankfully, the brilliant folks at Common Craft … Read more

SEMA ’08 – Making Green Cool Zone

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2008 marked the debut of SEMA’s “Making Green Cool Zone” with a wide range of environmentally oriented vehicles displayed at the rear of LVCC North Hall’s upper level. While I usually leave the camera in the bag at press conferences, this momentous occasion warranted video documentation, with luminaries including the George Barris – the King … Read more

2010 Chevy Camaro V6

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When a GM rep asked if I’d like to have a conversation with one of the new Chevy Camaro’s engineers at SEMA, I jumped at the chance. Although I’ve never owned a Camaro personally, I’ve always seen its merits. Looking at the upcoming car with a historic perspective made me pause to consider the change that the new model brings. Over the years, the Camaro’s gas mileage ratings have rarely been a selling point.

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CNG Yaris 5-Door Concept

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What that you say? A Toyota Yaris that just might be the (oh so green) apple of T. Boone Pickens’ eye? Toyota pulled out the stops for SEMA 2008 and rolled out a bright metallic green wide body five-door Yaris packed with spiffy surprises, including dual video screens, shaved doors, suicides, and a clamshell tailgate … Read more

Electric Ford F-150

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Of all the vehicles shown at SEMA 2008, PML Flightlink’s electric Ford F-150 sits proudly at the top of the hill when it comes to pure innovation. Don’t look for an engine under this F-150’s hood … the means of propulsion has been put out to the wheels, with PML Flightlink’s HI-PA Drive electric wheel motors (clad in shiny green metallic paint) nestled behind each of the conventional rims. This is four wheel drive (4WD) in its purest sense: four wheels, four permanent magnet brushless motors.

The 4WD PML Flightlink F-150 has a range of approximately 100 miles. A 40 kilowatt hour Lithium ion battery, weighing roughly 1000 pounds, is slung between the frame rails. While typical charge time is six-to-eight hours with the 110-volt charger, a fast three-phase charge can be completed in under an hour.

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