eBay Motors wants to make it more compelling for you to buy cars on its site, hence the introduction of free vehicle history reports. Peep the official press release after the jump...

eBay Motors (www.ebaymotors.com) (NASDAQ:EBAY), the No. 1 online automotive marketplace worldwide, now offers free vehicle history reports through an exclusive agreement with Experian’s AutoCheck. By offering free AutoCheck vehicle history reports on all listings for used vehicles no older than the 1981 model year, eBay Motors provides an unmatched level of trust and transparency for online auto shoppers, in addition to cost savings for buyers and sellers.
 
The free AutoCheck reports also give both automotive dealers and individual sellers a competitive advantage not found anywhere else on the Web, adding to other eBay benefits including Power Seller and Top-seller designations, customer support and dealer training.
 
Since used vehicles represent 81 percent1 of all U.S. vehicle sales, buyers rely on vehicle history information to make educated, confident purchase decisions. AutoCheck reports offer added assurance to consumers in the decision-making process – in fact, when provided a vehicle history report more than 80 percent2 of used-car shoppers are more confident in the dealer and their decision to purchase the vehicle.
 
“With the unique features and in depth vehicle history data provided by the free AutoCheck reports on eBay Motors, the online vehicle purchase experience has never been more transparent,” said Nicolas Franchet, senior director of U.S. vehicles, eBay Motors. “Now buyers have a much deeper level of confidence in their purchase, at no additional out-of-pocket costs. This relationship with Experian solidifies the powerful trust and safety systems and policies that have been built by eBay over the past 10 years, including seller feedback, vehicle inspections and vehicle purchase protection.”
 
“The combination of eBay Motors’ vehicle-selling resources and AutoCheck’s full vehicle history reporting service empowers online shoppers and sellers with the information critical to making a confident used-vehicle purchase,” said Scott Waldron, president of Experian Automotive. “We are excited to continue and grow our relationship with eBay Motors by providing their users with the peace of mind they need and deserve when buying or selling a used car online.”
 
AutoCheck’s depth of information and exclusive features provide consumers with a compelling set of vehicle history data. Recent research has found AutoCheck to have two times3 the number of reported accidents as the competition, with exclusive information such as frame-damage announcements from auctions, in addition to reporting on important events like major flood damage or odometer rollback issues. AutoCheck also offers the industry’s only vehicle history score: a number from one to 100 summarizing all the information in a vehicle’s history in a way that is quick and easy to understand.
 

I have always loved Steeda Mustangs. A couple years ago I had the opportunity to drive a naturally aspirated Q car. I thought the car was absolutely perfect. The drivability was perfect, and it was a blast to drive. The follow-up 2010 Q350 recently made its debut at SEMA. Check out the details after the jump...

The annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas has always been the host of many initial unveilings of concept, pre-production, and production vehicles and 2009 was no exception.  We chose this show to reveal the new 2010 Steeda Q350 Mustang for the very first time to the worldwide media attendees that attend this show to see the latest in design and performance products.

Suffice to say – the red candy metallic Steeda Q350 stole the show when Pat Schiavoni, Ford Motor Company’s Executive Director of Design proudly awarded the Steeda Q350 with the coveted Ford Motor Company “Outstanding Design Achievement Award” acknowledging the design achievements that set the Steeda Q-Series apart from all others.  Designed in secret over a 10-month period of time with a critical eye not only for a beautiful design, but also most importantly for all out performance, the new Steeda Q-Series provides a new level of functional performance with unique styling from front to back.

On the exterior, the Steeda Q-Series sported our new front facia that has been designed, engineered, and wind tunnel tested to provide appropriate downforce at speed, and additionally to provide functional front brake cooling and for those that track/race their vehicles optional front oil coolers for the engine and power steering to ensure that those components always operate within the key performance temperature range.  At the rear a new Steeda deck mounted wing has been fine-tuned so as to provide significant downforce without robbing top end speed and a rear fascia air diffuser ensures that air exiting from underneath the vehicles flows smoothly the rejoin the vehicles slipstream without causing undue speed robbing turbulence.

On the interior, the Steeda Q350 was equipped with a bevy of racing-bred performance and luxury upgrades including an alcantara covered sport steering wheel that ensures you have a firm grip in the most demanding conditions, and our unique Steeda Sport Seat option upholstered in Steeda premium leather and molded with enhanced side and seat bolsters to support you through the most challenging turns at high speed.  On the doorsills, backlit Steeda personalized doorsill plates provide for the unique identification that you are driving a Mustang unlike any other.

From a performance perspective, the Steeda Q350 has been engineered to blow the doors off the competition – you would expect nothing less from Steeda Autosports.  In the engine compartment the naturally aspirated 4.6L V8 uses the all new Steeda Cold Air Intake with our “cool tube” technology that has been designed and engineered to maximize a cool incoming air flow into the Steeda tuned engine.  But the powertrain enhancements do not end there.  Also included are the following proprietary Steeda powertrain enhancements:
Steeda stainless steel cat-back exhaust
Steeda charge motion plate delete kit
Steeda under drive pulley kit
Steeda 90mm mass air meter
Steeda tri-ax short throw shifter
Steeda custom shift knob
The Q350 chassis also underwent a major transformation in the suspension department so as to greatly enhance it performance road manners and ensure it’s road gripping performance every Steeda vehicle is noted for.  Performance modifications include:
Steeda performance sport springs
Steeda sway bars (front and rear)
Steeda aluminum lower control arms
Steeda upper third member link
Steeda bump steer kit
Steeda double bar strut tower brace
Steeda g-trac bar
Steeda/Brembo brakes with cross-drilled rotors and pillar-venting technology
315.5x30mm - front
300x19mm - rear
In the wheel and tire department, the Steeda Q350 was shod with Steeda low-pressure, cast and lightweight Spyder wheels (20x9.5 front & 20x11 rear) and then equipped with the best performance street tire in the market today, the famed Nitto NT05 high performance tire series (275/35/20 front & 315/35/20 rear).

The Steeda Q350 will be available for sale in the First Quarter of 2010 at select Steeda Ford Dealers nationwide. Visit Steeda.com for additional information and announcements concerning pricing and availability.

Performance Enthusiasts Note:  The Steeda Q-Series magic does not end with the Q350.  Look for the official reveal of the Supercharged Steeda Q-Series at the Los Angeles Auto Show in early December 2009 when the all new and exciting 2010 Steeda Q550 Streetfighter series will have it’s official world debut.

Steeda - Speed Matters

Most longtime Mustang fans know all about Brian Wolfe the racer. We are fortunate that he is now leading the charge at Ford Racing. Check out an official PR piece on the man after the jump...

For a self-proclaimed, lifelong car guy, Brian Wolfe is living a dream. As director of North America Motorsports, Wolfe oversees Ford Motor Company’s activities in NASCAR, NHRA and the Since he took the leadership of Ford Racing in mid-2008, Wolfe has seen Ford win the Daytona 500, the X Games 15 Rally Competition, back-to-back team, drivers’ and manufacturers’ championships in the Grand-Am Series KONI Challenge, and the development and debut of a new NASCAR engine (FR9).

But a renewed emphasis on grassroots and sportsman outreach remains what Wolfe is most proud of.

Born and raised in the Detroit area, Wolfe has been competing at drag strips across the country for years, racing his beloved 1969 428 Cobra Jet Fairlane and his ’86 Fox body Mustang.

For Wolfe, his tenure as the head of Ford Racing provided an opportunity to make the program more racer-friendly and to deliver to this influential customer base products that they want.

“In sportsman competition, you have guys who, instead of golfing on the weekend, they’re racing. The more ‘friendly’ we are to those people, and the more parts we make usable for them.  These racers have two ways to help Ford.  They are the car guys in their social circles, who influence their social circles and influence purchase decisions. Many of the them are small business owners, and if we can get them racing Fords, then perhaps they will switch their fleets to Fords. They may also convince their family and friends to switch to Fords, so there is a little marketing perspective in terms of what we do with them.

“The sportsman racer is known to be an ‘automotive expert’ to his circle of influence. One of the first things we decided when I came to this role was that we wanted to reach out to these groups, so we have developed programs that target drag racing and short track oval racing. There are over 1,200 tracks throughout the country and thousands of people watching during the weekend. If you start doing the math, there is a lot of outreach potential there, and one of our underlying principles is we want to support those racers out there.”

Ford Racing has taken a leadership role in providing production-based, turnkey, ready to race cars.

This week at the Specialty Equipment Manufacturing Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, Ford Racing will unveil the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustang, Ford Racing’s latest offering for NHRA sportsman racers.

Ford began the ready-to-race turnkey concept with the Mustang FR500C in 2005, which was delivered on a Wednesday, and won the KONI Challenge season opener on Friday.

A year ago at SEMA, the 2008 40th Anniversary Cobra Jet Mustang was unveiled.  The car had a momentous debut at the NHRA Winternationals last February, winning its debut and duplicating the success of the original CJ at the 1968 Winternationals.

“The first version of the Cobra Jet was a great car, it did everything we wanted it to do,” said Wolfe.  “We’re really proud of the car, but then again we’re always trying to make the next one better. What we’ve found was most of the competitors were putting a certified 8.50 roll cage in the car, so the first thing they did when they got their new turnkey race car was take it apart and have the roll cage updated.

“Again, our theme come race day, is that you’re ready to race.  If people are changing some of the stuff we did, then maybe we can make it a little more user friendly. With the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustang, we took the racer's feedback to make this version of the even more appealing to them."

The outreach to the sportsman racer and the grassroots programs is a growing initiative for Ford Racing. The program is expanding and additional offering are already being developed.

“We are aggressively going after the sportsman racer,” said Wolfe. “This is about getting all those Ford loyalist excited again and converting those Chevy guys over. Nothing would make me happier if you look back years from now in every motorsport series that the most of the new entries coming in were Fords. Again, these are all working guys without sponsors in these sportsman areas, and to buy a new car is a very expensive proposition for most people so what you want to do is say you may not switch this year, but if you stay there and stick with it when they’re ready to make that new car entry we want to go after them and make sure they’re all buying Fords.”

I'm sure you must of heard about the 4.0-liter Whipple-blown ’10 Cobra Jet by now, but if you haven't this thing is ridiculous. Check out the official press release after the jump...

Since its victorious introduction at the NHRA Winternationals in 1968, Ford’s Cobra Jet Mustang has created a legacy of power, performance and triumph.

The 40th Anniversary 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang lived up to the legend of the original, duplicating the NHRA Winternationals victory in 2009 and dominating drag strips across the land.
Today, Ford Racing unveiled the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustang at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, which marks the continued evolution of the CJ as a factory-produced turnkey race car. In honor of the SEMA introduction, Ford Racing built and unveiled a one-of-a-kind “SEMA Special” silver Cobra Jet complete with a charcoal Cobra Jet graphics package.

“The 2008 Cobra Jet was a great car, it did everything we wanted it to do,” said Brian Wolfe, director, Ford North American Motorsports. “We’re really proud of the car, but then again we’re always trying to make the next one better.

“With the 2010 Cobra Jet, we had the luxury of a longer development cycle and the result is absolutely stunning. Where the 2008 Cobra Jet was an extremely potent starting point for NHRA Stock competition, the 2010 will enhance the car further. We are all excited to see the new Cobra Jet in competition.”

For decades, the Mustang has been the preeminent car in many forms of racing, including drag racing. The 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang added to that legacy this season with high- profile wins at the NHRA Winternationals and U.S. Nationals, and by setting numerous track records across the country.
The 2010 Cobra Jet, like its predecessor, is a factory-built race car that is intended for NHRA Stock and Super Stock racing. The goal for the 2010 Cobra Jet was to enhance the race features to further make its own place in NHRA history. The 2010 CJ will come with all of the features of the 2008 car with enhancements that include options for a full race-prepared automatic or manual transmission, drag race-specific shocks and springs, manual steering and brakes, 8.50 certified rollcage, and an Aeromitive return-style fuel system with trunk-mounted fuel cell.

Additionally Ford Racing engineers have developed for the 2010 Cobra Jet a factory-first launch control/rev limiter that will allow drivers to preset the rpm after they stage the car. When they are ready to leave, all they do is put the throttle pedal to the floor; they don’t have the engine speed to free rev. Previously, the launch control/rev limiter was only available as an aftermarket option.

Much like Ford Racing’s previous Mustang FR500S race car, the Cobra Jet Mustang will get its start at the Auto Alliance International (AAI) assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The entire 50-car run of 2010 Cobra Jets will be built on the same production line that produces the 2010 Ford Mustang production car. Production of Cobra Jets will commence in January, with delivery of all vehicles expected in the first quarter of 2010.

All of the additional parts and pieces for the CJ can be found in the Ford Performance Parts catalog. And since the Cobra Jet is produced from a base V-6 Mustang, any consumer can turn his Mustang into a Cobra Jet by purchasing the parts from the Ford Performance Parts catalog.
The 2010 CJ car features a choice for customers between two supercharged engines or three normally aspirated engines (pending NHRA approval). These options will allow the Cobra Jet to be eligible for more classes in the NHRA, as well as competition with other sanctioning bodies, including NMRA, NMCA, PSCA and IHRA.

All 50 of the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustangs have already been ordered by Ford dealers for delivery to customers. For those customers who missed out on the limited run of 2010 Cobra Jets, Ford Racing has set a goal to provide future versions of the Cobra Jet.

There's a lot of action in the GT500 world concerning bigger blowers, bigger heat exchangers, and even bigger intercooler tanks. The one piece of the puzzle that hadn't been addressed until now—the intercooler pump. Until now, that is, as our friends at Lethal Performance are on the case. Peep the official words after the jump...

Coming Soon!

While building the Lethal Performance 2010 GT500 we wanted to take similar steps like what Ford did on the 2010 Super Cobra Jet. Since they were the only ones to run a 4.0L on a GT500 motor we felt that we could learn a few things from them. One of which is cooling. Since we already took care of the heat exchanger with the high performance dual pass/dual fan unit from Revan Racing/C&R it was time to tackle the intercooler pump. The 2010 Super Cobra Jet when pushed hard saw lots of heat. They decided to install a larger intercooler pump to assist in pushing the fluid in the intercooler system faster and not allowing it to become stagnant under the supercharger during extreme heat situations.

Here's a picture of the kit we've pieced together for our car. It's based off of what Ford currently uses on the 2010 Super Cobra Jet. It's got a 55gpm waterpump which includes the fittings, clamps and wiring needed for installation as well as a custom bracket which we make that mounts to your stock or aftermarket heat exchanger. Once we've finished making a batch of brackets we'll be able to start shipping kits.

Pricing still hasn't been determined.

If you are bringing your big-power ’Stang down for the PRI show, you might consider sticking around on Saturday to duke it out on the dyno with big-power entries from Brand C and Brand M at Brothers Performance. Check out the official words after the jump...

Brothers Performance Warehouse will be hosting their 2nd Big Car Show, Sale & Dyno event at their new 64,000ft Deland, Florida, facility on Saturday December 12th from 10am - 4pm (10-minutes from Daytona Speedway).

This event will feature the first Battle of the Brands dyno shoot-out with approximately six Mustangs competing against six GM LS Camaro/Corvette models and six Hemi Challenger/Charger models in a fun event that will award a $250 cash prize to the top normally aspirated winner as well as a $250 cash prize for the overall top horsepower car with a supercharger or turbo. (No nitrous will be allowed and the cars must be street legal and driven to the event). To Enter the Dyno Contest CALL 800-486-2681 Ext 452 - To Make your Appointment - Space is Limited to 6 cars per Brand - No Nitrous - Street Driven Cars Only. Cost is $49.99 to enter for a chance of winning $250

In addition to the dyno shootout there will be a huge car show and sales event with a one day 10% discount on most new products and up to 50% off on a huge selection of used and discontinued items from hundreds of companies.

The Daytona Beach “Wing House Girls” will be in attendance all day to help out with a free t-shirt giveaway to the first 500 participants as well as take pictures with attendees.

No word if there will be another matching GT500 package, but Shelby is sponsoring another NASCAR race. Check out the official press release after the jump...

Shelby Automobiles, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI:PK), will return in 2010 as the sponsor of the NASCAR Sprint Cup event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Shelby teamed up with LVMS this past March for the Shelby 427. Next year’s event on Feb. 28 will be called the Shelby American to honor the 45th anniversary of the Shelby G.T. 350 and 427 Cobra introductions in 1965.
           
“We are ecstatic to have the legendary Shelby name on our NASCAR Sprint Cup race for a second consecutive year,” said LVMS President Chris Powell said. “This year’s event was a tremendous success, and we’re looking forward to giving more exposure to the Shelby brand that has, over the years, become synonymous with the best in high-performance cars.”
March’s race was known as the Shelby 427 and featured a 427-mile, 285-lap race. The event will return to its traditional 400-mile, 267-lap distance in 2010.

“Next year will mark an important milestone for two of the most legendary vehicles Shelby ever produced,” said Shelby Autos President Amy Boylan. “The Shelby American NASCAR Sprint Cup event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is the perfect way to celebrate this historic occasion.”

The 2010 NASCAR Weekend will kick off with qualifying for the Shelby American NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Friday, Feb. 26. The Sam’s Town 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race is set for Saturday, Feb. 27. Tickets for all 2010 events at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, including the Shelby American on Sunday, Feb. 28, can be purchased by calling 1-800-644-444 or online at www.lvms.com. Neon Garage, Lucky 7 Preferred parking and driver introduction passes also are on sale.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Speedway Motorsports, a leading marketer and promoter of motorsports entertainment in the United States.  For more information visit www.speedwaymotorsports.com.

Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles Inc., (www.shelbyautos.com), manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc. (www.carrollshelbyinternational.com), also a wholly-owned division, is the exclusive holder of Carroll Shelby's trademarks and vehicle design rights. It also holds trademark rights for Shelby-branded apparel, accessories and collectibles.

I recently received an announcement of a cool, and long-awaited product from my friends at Air Flow Dynamics; the Australia-based, cylinder-head company that I worked with on the Boss 340 engine project.

If you've followed my stories on our 600 (crankshaft) horsepower, Cleveland-headed small block Ford, you already know about AFD and its lineup of killer aluminum 351C-style castings.

Every set of heads needs a good intake manifold to feed it air and fuel, and AFD now offers one for enthusiasts who want to build canted-valve Windsor engines (9.2-, or 9.5-deck 351Ws with Cleveland-style heads).

You're looking at a CAD image of AFD's new Cleveland Intake Manifold.

We don't have very much data on this piece right now, but a request has been made for us to hopefully have an opportunity to work with the new manifold and detail its virtues, on another "Boss"/Clevor-style engine project that will be coming down the pike in 2010.

If you're interested in building a Boss engine that's similar to ours, or a Clevor with bigger cubes, check out AFD's Web site at www.airflowdynamics.com.au.

Many of the larger Mustang Web sites have regional sections to help bring together Mustang fans, but there are also a ton of regional Mustang Web sites, as well. One site I recently came across is www.stangforce.com. Check out more info after the juump...

"We're a very informal club, just a group of guys who like to get together for a cruise or go to the track, etc," says Chris Jones, the force behind www.stangforce.com. Members cruise to different locales within Florida, like this weekend when they make the cruise over to Daytona Beach on Saturday the 14th. The site boasts many of the same features of larger, nationwide sites, but with a local feel. Most members live in the Central Florida, which makes it easy to get together and attend different cruises in the area.

Like Chris, who owns the tastefully-done Windveil blue 2007 GT seen with this post, many of the site regulars also own S197 Mustangs, but they're not afraid to modify them. Chris' GT is currently at ProFab Performance, the site's official shop, receiving BBK Performance long-tube headers and corresponding shorty X-shape crossover. 

If you live in Florida, and are looking for a hometown Web site, check out www.stangforce.com.         

Nope. It's not the oil you put in your engine, but the kind you cook with. I love to cook with olive oil, and I dig Shelby Mustangs, so why not. Check out the official press release after the jump...

Shelby Signature Foods, founded by Carroll Shelby, chairman of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI.PK), will introduce its first product with IDEA Foods Inc.  The companies will offer a premium extra virgin olive oil to consumers in select retail stores under the “Shelby Signature Foods” brand within the next two months.  A portion of sales will benefit charity.
 
“Our goal at Shelby Signature Foods is to offer products that are best in class, offer important health benefits and taste great,” said Mr. Shelby.  “Working with Idea Foods, we’re going to introduce a wonderful olive oil that’s a great alternative to cooking in butter or margarine.  We’re working with other companies to brand additional Shelby foods to market in the near future.”
 
IDEA Foods Inc., a division of Campbell Supply Company Inc., is the sole distributor of Oliovita Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Argentina in the United States.  Headquartered in Doylestown, Penn., it distributes the olive oil products through retail chains throughout the eastern half of the country.  Shelby Signature Foods and IDEA will seek additional retail channels to sell the olive oil in North America.
 
“We’re proud to be part of the new Shelby Signature Foods program,” stated Bob Campbell, president and CEO of IDEA Foods.  “The Shelby Signature Foods premium extra virgin olive oil is made from organic olives picked at the height of their ripeness to ensure outstanding flavor and aroma.  Not only is it a smart way to add some zest to a meal, it’s a smart way to eat healthy.  It fits Carroll’s vision to offer food that tastes great and makes heart sense.”
 
Though most recognized for his automotive success with the Shelby Cobra sports cars, Shelby GT350 and GT500, Carroll Shelby was involved in the food industry for many years.  He created “Carroll Shelby Chili” mix, which is owned now by O’Reilly Foods and no longer associated with Mr. Shelby.
 
Charities to benefit from Shelby Signature Foods sales include the Carroll Shelby Foundation (carrollshelbyfoundation.org).  It supports children with medical problems and education for young people.  
 
Retail outlets interested in the olive oil can reach Jan Suessenguth at (215) 345-7696 or jan@ideafoodsinc.com.

I guess I should have submitted and essay for the Mustang Unleashed contest. These look fun. The latest winners are four guys that like racing games. They were able to race Mustangs in the game, and then on a real race track. Check out the official press release after the jump...

Four passionate gamers who have burned rubber on the race track through their video game consoles brought their racing dreams to life at an actual speedway for the eighth installment of the Mustang ‘10 Unleashed campaign.
 
Ford called upon the gaming community and staged a tournament with the best Need for Speed™ players to determine who would face the ultimate challenge.  As masters of the video game racing world, the winners played Need for Speed to hone their driving skills. The selected gamers competed against each other in the critically-acclaimed Need for Speed SHIFT, which includes the new 2010 Ford Mustang.
 
After they battled it out on their Xbox consoles, the four gamers received a chance to put the pedal to the metal at Willow Springs Raceway in Rosamond, Calif.  The contestants included:  Kirby Anderson (25); Troy Alessi (22); Justin Keppler (24) and Jason Morrell (24).
 
With the help of driving teachers from Fast Lane Racing School, the gamers learned the in and outs of the actual sport of racing.  At the end of the day, the participants had their time added up from their video racing and their time on the real-life track, as they raced on the same track, in the same car. The person with the lowest combined time won bragging rights.
 
“The whole point of the Mustang Unleashed Campaign is to intersect the passions of our life-long Mustang lovers with their most creative, wildest, most impossible dreams,” said Steve Ling, car group marketing manager for Ford Motor Company. “We’ve taken two seemingly different worlds and weaved them into one amazing “Unleashed” experience for these four winners.”
 
This experience is among several other dream Mustang experiences Ford is bringing to life with “The ‘10 Unleashed.”  Famous drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr. slid sideways around Japan, consumer Roger Keeney drove blindly, and 18-year-old consumer Derek Murrell drag raced his high school shop teacher.  Each of the incredible videos can be viewed on www.the2010Mustang.com.
 
To find out who earned bragging rights on the virtual and real-life speedway, check out the video chronicling the Need for Speed experience at www.the2010mustang.com.

Pro Street, Outlaw 10.5, Xtreeme Drag Radial, Wild Street, Hot Street and Limited Street are the major heads-up categories in the Pacific Street Car Association (www.pscaracing.com).

Bad-ass Mustangs compete in all of these classes, and many of them were in full effect at the PSCA's World Finals at Auto Club Dragway in Fontana, California.

Head on over the jump for photos of some of the fastest Ponies on the West Coast, that all were going hard for win lights at the PSCA's final points race of 2009...

 SEMA, working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, Bureau of Automotive Repair, Air Resources Board and Attorney General's office has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves.  "This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California," said Steve McDonald, SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs.  "Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements."

 Over the years, California's complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations.  Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled.  SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

"Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA's charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees," said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane.  "After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created."

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program.  The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010 and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances.  Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners that have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles.  While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions.  Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first come, first served basis.  For vehicles with an exemption, a smog test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year.  The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year.  Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required.  California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several OEM engines and related powertrain components (including specifications for the construction of a fuel tank and delivery system) that are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.  GM is currently readying an engine package for this purpose.  "In fact, by using one of these engines, it is anticipated that owners of amnesty vehicles will be able to exchange their existing engines for a powertrain that represents the latest in GM's emissions and performance-related technologies," commented SEMA Technical Consultant, Jim McFarland.  However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the "GreenRod Project" and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle.  An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a "retrofit kit" of parts can be installed.  Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage 1980 El Camino fitted with a 1986 carbureted, 5.7 liter engine.  The 5.7 liter/350 cubic inch displacement small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely-used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.   

According to McFarland, "While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements.  Variables such as engine condition, accumulated mileage, and related factors affecting emissions from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels.  Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle.  The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine.  It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions which did not reduce power or performance."    

"Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA's work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment," said So Cal Speed Shop owner, Pete Chapouris.

How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?
If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty.  Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California, or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle.  As a further example, a replica of a 1932 Ford built in 2002 is not a 1932 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program.  It is a 2002 vehicle.  In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle's title, it should be corrected.  

What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?
If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the State of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony.  If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors.  Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back-taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle.  In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the title to their car.  To receive amnesty, any and all back-taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle's title must be factually corrected.

What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?
Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle.  You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form.  You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle's parts and their purchase price.  It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle.  If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

How much should I expect to pay for the "retrofit" kit?  How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?
The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components.  On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000.  The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000.  If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900.  GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels.  Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I've used the correct parts and properly installed them?
GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error.  If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts.  Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?
The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements.  It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles.  In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler.  Although these parts enabled SEMA's project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog check requirements, depending upon variables that include, but limited to the following:  mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and a mal-functioning EGR system.

Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?
Yes.  California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR Referee station.  The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49.  If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance.  As with any vehicle maintenance, it's best to use a mechanic you know and trust.  

What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?
SEMA and GM will be available to provide some immediate technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.  SEMA has begun communicating with builders of SCVs and engines, enabling them to respond to the most common questions from enthusiasts.    SEMA will also compile additional guidance information.  These approaches will help expedite solutions to SCV owners seeking to meet California smog-check requirements.

We've known for a while that Vortech and Lysholm have been dating, but it looks like things are getting serious. Check out the official press release after the jump...

 Lysholm-Vortech Strategic Alliance


(Channel Islands, Calif.) Vortech Engineering, LLC has teamed with Opcon, AB, a Swedish company, to form a new company,  VORTECH THREE, Inc., with an expanded technology portfolio and an international market capability.

Vortech Engineering, LLC, a privately held manufacturer of centrifugal compressors for the automotive OEM and aftermarket as well as the industrial and aero segments, has formed an alliance with Stockholm based Opcon. All shares of subsidiary Lysholm AB, will be transferred to the new company. Lysholm is a manufacturer of positive displacement “twin-screw” compressors for automotive OEM and aftermarket segments as well as marine markets. Vortech Engineering’s ownership retains majority interest of the new company.

The new firm will be called Vortech Three, Inc. and will provide leadership for the two operating companies: Lysholm/Vortech, which will sell both the centrifugal and screw type PD technology to the transportation sector, and Vortron, a former division of Vortech, which will manufacture industrial and electric powered compressors for the hybrid powered vehicle, aero, and industrial segments.

The advanced twin-screw compressor technology accessed from Opcon by Vortech Three as part of the deal will push Lysholm/Vortech into a world leadership position with both state of the art centrifugal and twin-screw positive displacement compressors for the auto aftermarket and OEM market segments.

“This was a great opportunity for us. Opcon wanted to focus on their green energy business, which opened the way for the deal to occur. We not only get a great existing product and technology, but also access to new technological developments in the future and increased market share” said Jim Middlebrook, President and CEO of Vortech Engineering.

Vortech Three, through its operating companies is poised for world-wide manufacturing and distribution of many of its products.  2010 will find Vortech products in multiple continents from its headquarters in Channel Islands, California, USA. Visit www.vortechsuperchargers.com.

Two seasons ago, Mel Roth, the Pacific Street Car Association's President (founder, CEO, owner, or whatever title he goes by), decided to add another category to his West Coast heads-up drag racing sanction.

The Open Comp-format class for any-year, Ford-powered Mustangs only, is called Ford Racing Performance Parts (that's right, FRPP sponsors this deal) Mustang Maddness, and after two full seasons in exsistence, it has consistently been one of the largest eliminators at every PSCA event (averaging 25 'Stangs per race).

Sal Ybarra of Sal's Speed Shop in San Fernando, California, got Mustang racing started here on the West Side many years ago, with his popular Mustang Drag Days events at Los Angeles County Raceway.

The PSCA's FRPP Mustang Maddness class has expanded on Sal's dream, giving California 'Stangbangers (the whole state, as there's one racer who comes from San Francisco to compete) and Mustang racers from all over the Western United States (Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, etc), a great place to race.

I recently took in the PSCA's World Finals at Auto Club Dragway (Fontana, California) and had a great time.

I guess it's just hard for me to attend race events and not take photos, so these are just a few shots of the 'Stangs that competed in Ford Racing Mustang Maddness.

The question of the race for me was, "why aren't you out here racing, KJ?" Well, it definitely would have been a lot of fun. There's no doubt about that, but we've got our sights set on being in Las Vegas on November 19-22, for the PSCA's Street Car Super Nationals. V, where they're going to be running the Mustang Maddness class right along with the wicked Pro, Outlaw 10.5, Drag Radial and Index cars.

I blogged about this race not too long ago, so you can trip back through the posts and learn more about it, whenever you have time. For now, enjoy the photos of the 'Stangs of Mustang Maddness and the PSCA!

Like I've said recently, I've had great success with Falken's tires and wheels, its new Azenis RT615-K will surely build on that success. Find out more info after the jump...

FONTANA, CA (November 6, 2009) – Falken Tire is proud to announce the launch of the new Azenis RT615-K. While the original RT615 proved to be a dominant force in the DOT approved and truly street functional competition tire category, we’ve decided to make it even better.
 
The K in the new RT615-K can have many meanings but none describe the second generation 615 better than KAIZEN.
 
By definition, this Japanese word means "continuous improvement" which precisely describes the newest edition to the Azenis lineup. Visually, nearly identical to its predecessor, the subtle K on the sidewall is the only tell tale sign of what lies within its completely revised tread compound.
 
Although taking uncompromised grip to the next level, the new RT retains a 200A/A UTQG rating, still making it eligible by nearly all “Street Tire Class” competition sanctioning bodies.
 
Other familiar features adopted by the RT615-K include an 8/32nds molded tread design, light weight casing construction and high tension carcass resulting in superior grip, improved handling response and high speed stability.
 
With 21 sizes ideal for a wide range of today’s most popular applications, the RT615-K is refined on the track and bred for the streets.
 
At Falken Tire, We Get You Going!

Falken Tire Corporation, a part of the Sumitomo Rubber Group, is based in Fontana, CA and is a manufacturer of Falken branded High Performance and Ultra High Performance passenger tires, as well as Light Truck, SUV, and Ohtsu branded medium truck tires.  For more information, visit Falken Tire’s new website at www.falkentire.com.

Not too long ago Roush launched a program designed to make pickups run clean on propane. Now  they are launching Mustangs faster by running them on propane. Check out the official press release after the jump...

LIVONIA, Mich. (November 3, 2009) – Jack Roush is highly recognized for generating horsepower and performance out of engines. Roush also has a long and successful motorsports history with the first of his numerous championships coming in drag racing. And today, Roush is finding great success in engineering, building and selling alternative fuel vehicles to the fleet markets.
 
So what do you get when you combine all three of these things? A pair of propane-fueled ROUSH® Mustang drag cars, ready to challenge for the NMRA championship next season.
 
The drag cars are an offshoot of the kits that ROUSH® Performance uses to convert gasoline-powered Ford pickups and vans to run on clean-burning propane. As a leader in the development of green technologies for the automotive industry, Roush sees several benefits in using propane as a “right here, right now” alternative fuel; he cites facts such as propane is the third most popular motor fuel (behind gasoline and diesel), and there are already more than 12 million propane-fueled vehicles on roads across the world.
 
On the topic of propane, Roush said, “It’s as American as NASCAR. More than 90 percent of the propane used in the United States is produced in North America, much of it from the U.S. natural gas supply. Propane has so many positive aspects and it is finally getting the recognition it deserves as an alternative fuel. Propane can help to lessen our dependence on foreign oil. Propane can help to clean up our environment. And propane can help to create new ‘Green Collar Jobs’ for displaced auto workers who can return to the lines to build alternative fuel vehicles.”
 
And as a green fuel, on average propane fleet vehicles reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 19 percent and create 20 percent fewer nitrogen oxides, up to 60 percent less carbon monoxide, and fewer particulate emissions, as compared to gasoline. From an economic standpoint, propane used as a motor fuel can be purchased for about one dollar per gallon with applicable federal incentives.
 
But, one advantage that propane has, especially in a drag racing application, is that it has an octane rating of 106 (premium unleaded is typically around 93 octane). The first car being developed is a 2005 ROUSH Stage 3™ Mustang which will be driven by Donnie Bowles and expected to be testing in mid-November. The ROUSH engineering team is also building a 2010 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang for Susan Roush-McClenaghan which should debut in February. This is Roush’s daughter who is adding the next chapters to her father’s legendary history in drag racing.
 
McClenaghan finished third in the NMRA Modular Muscle class this year, with Bowles one place higher. In NMCA Open Comp competition, they switched positions with Bowles finishing the season in second and McClenaghan third so both are highly skilled pilots.
 
Both cars will use an all-aluminum 5.4L, V-8 Ford engine that was originally designed for the Ford GT supercar. This engine will be converted to be naturally-aspirated, the compression ratio will be altered to 12.5:1, and several other changes will be required to run on liquid propane. These include CNC ported cylinder heads, high performance camshaft and valvetrain, and a wet sump lubrication system. All these changes should help this engine generate in excess of 600 horsepower.
 
Despite popular misconceptions, propane is actually very safe to use as a motor fuel and has a significantly lower flammability than gasoline. It is also good in cool or hot weather making it ideal for motorsports applications.
 
Bowles car will be on display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from November 3-5. It can be seen outside at the Cruisin’ Legends lot with the Ford Mustang corral.
 
Based in Livonia, Mich., “The Art of Performance Engineering” takes place at ROUSH Performance. To get a look behind the scenes at what goes on at ROUSH and how the vehicles are designed, manufactured and produced logon to www.ROUSHtv.com. For more information see your local ROUSH dealer, visit www.ROUSHperformance.com or telephone toll-free (800) 59-ROUSH. Follow us on Twitter @_ROUSH_ or Facebook at www.Facebook.com/roushperformance

Though Shelby has chosen superchargers to take Mustang performance to the next level, he is no stranger to turbochargers. All you have to do is look back to the mid-80s, and the line-up of pocket rockets bearing his name. Now, he's bringing turbochargers back. Check out the info after the jump...

Executives with Shelby Automobiles, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI:PK) unveiled a new turbo based post-title package for 2007-2008 Shelby GT’s and 2005-2009 Ford Mustang GT’s with a manual transmission.  The 550 horsepower “Shelby Turbo” package boosts not only the car’s output, but also enhances the handling, braking and looks of the venerable pony car.  
 
“In 1985, Carroll used a turbo to turn Chrysler’s K Car into a rocket,” said Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Autos.  “Though we’ve offered supercharged packages for vehicles for several years, many enthusiasts longed for a turbo option because of the different driving characteristics offered with this type of force induction.  The Shelby Turbo was created to fulfill that need.”
 
The turbo was developed with the help of California based Turbonetics.  Since 1978, Turbonetics has been the leading source for turbochargers and forced induction components. 
 
“Turbonetics has the unique ability to combine our individual component specialties with precise engine tuning to create incredibly reliable and powerful bolt-on forced induction systems,” said Brad Lewis, president of Turbonetics.  “We were excited to work with the Shelby Autos team on designing and engineering a solution that is the first 50 state and CARB compliant turbo system in history for their post-title packages.”
 
Mustang Racing Technologies of Plymouth was also involved in the program. 
 
“As the vehicle integrator for this project, I was responsible for matching the Shelby brand attribute requirements to the appropriate solution,” stated Scott Hoag, founder and president of MRT.  “It was a challenge as the Shelby Autos team wanted the package to be 50 state and CARB compliant while also meeting rigorous performance standards.  The result is a robust package that is worthy of the Shelby name.”  
 
The package can be applied to a 2007-09 or Shelby GT 2005-09 Mustang GT at the Las Vegas Shelby facility or one of its mod shops.  The installed package costs $22,599, not including the car.  Standard components include:
o        Shelby/Turbonetics Turbocharger with 550 HP (at the crank) 
o        Short throw shifter
o        Shelby Pro-Plus 4 wheel brake system
o        Performance suspension with Caster/Camber Plates
o        Borla dual exhaust
o        Shelby Bar Grille and stripes
o        Shelby Gauge Pod and Shelby Signature Gauges 
o        Serialized dash and engine bay plaque, as well as a Certificate of Authenticity                      
o        Shelby Functional Deep Draw hood with pins
o        Shelby Turbocharged Floor Mats 
o        Specific 18” X 9” Chrome Aluminum Wheels with Goodyear Eagle F1 275/35/18 tires
 
Optional equipment includes:
o        Shelby GT-H Front Fascia and Shelby Rear Fascia
o        Baer 6-Piston Extreme front and rear brake kit
o        Front Brake Ducts
o        Performance clutch
o        Eibach Pro-2 Coil-Over Shocks and Struts
o        Eibach Pro Sway Bar Kit and Eibach Pro Alignment Kit
o        1” drop Lower Ball Joints
o        Bump Steer Kit
o        Upgraded front lower control arm bushings
o        8-point roll cage
 
The Shelby Turbo package is now available.  Interested parties can contact Roger Sorel with Shelby Autos at (702) 942-7325 or Rogers@ShelbyAutos.com.
 
About Shelby Autos, Inc. and Carroll Shelby Licensing
Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Autos (www.shelbyautos.com) manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products.  Shelby Autos is a division of Carroll Shelby International, Inc. (CSBI.PK).  Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc., also a wholly owned division, is the exclusive holder of Carroll Shelby's trademarks and vehicle design rights.  It also holds trademark rights for Shelby-branded apparel, accessories and collectibles.  Info is at www.carrollshelbyinternational.com.

Finding a reputable restoration facility to bring your Mustang's finish back to life can be an exercise in frustration. However, there is an easier way to make sure your Mustang makes it to the right shop. Find out more after the jump...

Angie’s List is bringing its 14 years of experience in helping consumers find reliable help around the house to the $2 billion classic and custom car industry.

Starting today, Angie’s List (www.angieslist.com), the nation’s leading provider of consumer ratings on service companies, is actively seeking consumer reviews from car buffs with insight into custom and classic car specialists offering services in more than 100 categories, from babbiting to paint, plating and polishing, to wiring and welding.

“Custom and classic car owners will go to the ends of the Earth to find the one person who can bring their baby back. We’re going to make that trip easier,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks, announcing the launch of the company’s Classic & Custom Car restoration services division.

Auto restoration is the second niche service added to Angie’s List in the past two years. In March 2008, the company added health care services with 50 categories. Member demand has grown that service niche to more than 200 categories.

“There are tons of forums, classified ads everywhere you look, and lots of talk in garages around the country about individual specialists and companies that focus on restoring vintage vehicles,” Hicks said. “We’re going to do what we do best and gather that great consumer experience at a site where anyone can easily find just the person they need for the specialty work they need done.”

Angie’s List will collect and process the reports in accordance with its existing accountability structure. The auto restoration reports will be available to all members early next year, regardless of where the service is located, which is a departure from the traditional, highly localized approach Angie’s List has taken with other service areas.

Angie’s List has collected consumer reviews since 1995, starting with a handful of categories focused on home services in suburban Columbus, Ohio. It now offers reviews in more than 450 categories in more than 200 cities across the country.

“We proved with our health care service that our model can be used to deliver great consumer value to a number of different service areas,” Hicks said. “Auto restoration is a huge market, but there’s not currently a way for consumers to tap into a reliable word-of-mouth rating systems that isn’t limited by service or geography.”

Consumers grade service companies’ performance on an A-F scale, making it easy for other members to do their homework before they hire. To ensure those consumer reports are reliable, Angie’s List has a multi-layered accountability structure that:

o Prohibits anonymous reporting;
o Limits members to reporting only once on each, specific hiring experience;
o Prohibits service providers from rating themselves;
o Alerts service providers (free of charge) to reports so they know what's being said about them;
o Encourages companies to respond (free of charge) to reports so members get both sides of the story;
o Dedicates specialized staff and proprietary technology to screen all reports for adherence to company policies or suspicious trends;
o Helps members and service providers resolve differences through the Angie’s List complaint resolution service.  

PROPS to my friend Greg "The Missile" Montoya!

You might recognize Greg and his clean white Fox, as the duo appeared in 5.0 Mustang & Super Fords a while back, in a 5.0 Heads/Cam/Intake tech story (you'll probably find that story, which features Dart's Iron Eagle cylinder heads, an Anderson Ford Motorsport cam and BBK's SSi intake manifold ).

What are the props for? Find out after the jump!

Greg made it to the final round (and the PAY window) at the PSCA's World Finals on Sunday, earning a runner-up in the Symbolic Auto Body "Street Challenge" class.

With the underdog/slowest car in the class (11.70s to everybody else's 10s...racing on the 255/60-15 street radial tires that are a class requirement--we're talkin' Pep Boys radials, fellas), Greg parlayed a good nitrous tune, a HUGE "that's racing" break in Round 1 (when his competitor's engine shut off at mid-track), and also a ladder bye in the semifinals, to reach the final round.

It's always cool to help good friends and see them do well at the track, when I'm not out there racing. No doubt.

Though it's been available for other applications for some time, Whipple's massive 4.0 liter supercharger is coming to the Shelby GT500.

And, it's bringing with it a new high-flow inlet called the Super Crusher, and an even larger monoblade throttle body. The first GT500 we know of that's getting one is the wild Lethal Performance ’10 GT500.

Continental is bringing its street tire expertise, and Hoosier is bringing its race-tire expertise to a new alliance. Check out the official press release after the jump...

The convergence of the high-performance street tire and race tire industries took a significant step forward today as Continental Tire and Hoosier Racing Tire announced a strategic alliance based on a shared vision for motorsports marketing and race proven technology.  By engaging the companies at the marketing, business and R&D levels, the alliance will allow both companies to drive new growth prospects, technologies, and have the potential to ultimately transform a variety of motorsports platforms.

“This partnership will open the door for endless opportunities, which will benefit both companies,” said Bill Caldwell, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Continental Tire. “The combination of Continental’s expertise is in performance street tires, and Hoosier’s industry leading technology in race tire development will allow both companies to compete in new market segments.”
 
“The exchange of technologies will result in increased levels of performance in future product developments for both companies,” said Joerg Burfien, Director of R&D - Americas, Continental Tire.

The alliance will consist of Continental and Hoosier being strategic partners for advanced performance solutions and motorsports integration.  A team of industry veterans has been formed and will be the driving force behind the collaborative marketing, product development and implementation process.  Both companies will invest substantially into resources for the marketing, business development and delivery of specific products. 

“We are working together because we believe it benefits both organizations by affording opportunities for deep collaboration in marketing and business development, allowing us to rapidly deliver high quality products to consumers who are simply demanding the best tire for their investment,” said Dennis Sherman, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Hoosier Racing Tire.   “Together we are better.”

I have been a Ford Flex fan ever since we had one here at the office earlier this year. They're actually pretty cool for a people hauler. This particular Flex is a lot cooler than the factory offering we had here. Check out who built it, and why, after the jump...Love the Daytons... 

FONTANA, CA (November 4, 2009) – Breaking the mold of cookie-cutter project vehicles on oversized chrome rims, Falken Tire envisioned the perfect blend of traditional “Lowrider” styling and a 2010 platform while utilizing today’s finest full-size CUV, the Ford Flex. Rolling on 22” Falken S/TZ04 tires and wire spoke Dayton wheels, this project was set to earn the respect of old school purists to new-age tuners.
 
Exterior modifications include a full PPG Paint color change, subtle silver leaf and pinstripe graphics and GT Factory rear suicide doors. The 3d Carbon aero treatment lays low when the Airrunner suspension drops and a low rumble is delivered through Magnaflow’s SS cat-back exhaust system. Other mods include an ACS sliding rag-top, Alpine audio and video components, Playstation 3, Metra audio wiring and custom printed paisley interior featuring the Falken “F” logo and the distinctive clown logo created by the renowned photographer and director Estevan Oriol.
 
With the car completed just in time and delivered to Ford’s booth at the SEMA Convention earlier this week, things got even better when the Falken Flex was awarded a Special Recognition Award for Outstanding Achievement in Design.
 
“Falken Tire would like to thank all of our collaborative partners, Ford Motor Company and especially our builder, Autofashion based in San Diego, CA, for helping make this concept a reality” states Nick Fousekis, Falken’s Sr. Manager of Consumer Marketing. “Expect to see much more of the Falken Tire Ford Flex over the next 12 months through an aggressive promotional program and collaborations with the who’s who in the lowrider and hip-hop scene.”

Falken Tire Corporation, a part of the Sumitomo Rubber Group, is based in Fontana, CA and is a manufacturer of Falken branded High Performance and Ultra High Performance passenger tires, as well as Light Truck, SUV, and Ohtsu branded medium truck tires. For more information, visit Falken Tire’s new website at www.falkentire.com.

When I attended UPR Products’ Ford Fest at New England Dragway a couple months ago I ran across Jim Gillis and his immaculate ’86 GT. The first thing that grabbed my attention was the immaculate paint. Then as I walked around the car it was surprisingly original. Check out its story after the jump…

Jim’s GT was originally owned by a law student who drove it daily back and forth to school. When he graduated and started making real money his life hit fast forward to marriage, kids, and a house. The GT was relegated to backstop duty under a tree, and that’s where it sat for 13 years. A friend of Jim’s bought the car from the lawyer to cut up and make into a drag car. However, Jim was able to help his friend sell a 10th Anniversary Cobra for profit, which enabled the friend to pick-up a car already prepped and ready for the drag strip. Jim was able to scoop up the GT for just $1,800. With its primer spots the GT earned the nickname “Spot.” The nickname came courtesy of New Hampshire Mustang Club President Rick Lacourse, who was called in to replace Spot’s starter cable, and add BBK short-tube headers, an off-road H-pipe, and a Flowmaster after-cat exhaust.
Jim drove Spot for a bit before sending it to Autopaint RI in Rhode Island for fresh paint. The paint was a little over budget, but Jim said it was worth every penny. With just 39,000 miles on it, the paint and the exhaust are Spot's only non-original aspects. Jim’s buddy Henry Martin helps keep the ’86 in show-winning shape, which might be a full-time job since Jim drives the ’86 as much as possible. Jim owns two other late-model Mustangs, a Lightning, and is Vice President of the New Hampshire Mustang Club. 

ATI-ProCharger is making a big splash at the SEMA. including a new cog-drive kit for Three-Valves. Check out the official press release after the jump...

ATI/ProCharger showcases their industry-leading HO Intercooled ProCharger system for the popular 2010 Ford Mustang GT at SEMA 2009. This system produces allows owners to bolt on 70- to 75-percent more power to an otherwise stock 4.6-liter Three-Valve while still running high quality pump gas with 10 psi of intercooled boost. Featuring the coolest charge air temperatures available, this system delivers industry-leading power gains and superior engine longevity.
 
Industry-exclusive features include a patented, self-contained supercharger with an available three-year warranty and a three-core, air-to-air intercooler with a standard 3-year warranty. The ProCharger Mustang 3V system features an outstanding OEM appearance, is 100% complete and includes fuel system upgrades and tuning.
 
Like all of our completely engineered systems, the HO Intercooled System for the HEMI Challenger features easy installation, minimal relocation of components, no need to punch a hole in the oil pan, and avoids having to deal with all the complexity of an air-to-water intercooler. The HO Intercooled system provides a standard 10 psi of intercooled boost, but higher boost options are available on modified engines.
 
NEW: ProCharger Cog Race Kit For 4.6L 3V Mustangs
Realizing the growing performance potential of modified 4.6L 3V engines, ProCharger is once again leading the way with a Cog Race Kit designed specifically for the 2005+ Mustang GTs. Utilizing a dedicated, 50mm-wide cog drive and tensioner system, the heavy-duty bracket provides a solid, stable mounting location for the ProCharger F-1A self-contained supercharger.
 
Recognized throughout the industry for it's legendary power and durability, an F-1A ProCharger is capable of supporting 1,100 HP. Intercooled Cog Race Kits include a Race Bypass Valve and are intended for installation onto modified engines built for off-road/competition use.
 
The Mustang 3V Cog Race Kit will be on display in the 2009 SEMA New Products Showcase.
 
ProCharger Pony Car Power!
ProCharger's 2009 SEMA display will provide you with a unique opportunity to see and photograph / video all three of the current Pony Cars (2010 Mustang GT, 2010 Camaro SS, 2009 HEMI Challenger), each equipped with an industry-leading ProCharger supercharger system. Please note our new booth location (#23065). This location is on the main floor of the "Performance & Racing" hall between the Ford and GM displays and represents our best location to date.
 
NEW: Helical Gearset for Noise Reduction
Proving that leadership through innovation isn't just talk, ProCharger now has a Helical Gearset for Noise Reduction option available for new ProCharger P-1SC, P-1SC-1 and D-1SC supercharger models. The helical gearset now allows owners to chose their level of "blower noise" they want from their supercharger system. Only ProCharger offers this choice in both our "standard" supercharger models (P-1SC & P-1SC-1) as well as our "higher output" D-1SC supercharger.
 
Additionally, ProCharger will have 11 new products on display in the SEMA New Product Showcase and in our SEMA display itself.
 
ProCharger’s innovative intercooled supercharger systems for Chrysler, Ford, GM, sport sport compacts, UTVs, and Harley-Davidson® motorcycles will be featured on nearly 30 vehicles throughout the 2009 SEMA show.