Chevrolet Volt garage fire

The cars were a brand-new 2011 Chevrolet Volt with just 2,000 miles on the odometer and a converted all-electric Suzuki Samurai that the homeowner, Storm Connors, converted himself years ago. At this early stage, it is impossible to tell if one or the other vehicles was the cause of the blaze – or if it was one of the charging systems or the garage's electrical system – but firemen who responded to the 911 call said that this is one angle that the investigators will look in to. Local news channel WTNH reports that Connors, "likes his cars too much to think having them charging in the garage started the fire." Another news channel, WFSB, says that, "fire officials suspect an electric hybrid car may have sparked" the blaze.You can watch a video news report of the aftermath after the jump. Interestingly, Connors himself has commented on AutoblogGreen stories in the past, so our thoughts go out to a reader who is dealing with a terrible loss. Hat tip to Pete!

Chevrolet Volt - we miss the point?

I am fascinated by the importance of passing on the Chevrolet Volt. What fascinates me even more is the detail of the gearbox.

The instinctive reaction of many fans, was disappointed that GM's revolutionary electric car is not so revolutionary after all. Sure, GM could have to be clear about the technical implementation earlier in the product cycle.



The "cleanup" and a media campaign that we now live is about the failure. The Volt has a mechanical bond (in terms of gears, shafts and couplings) between the gasoline engine and the tires hit the road. Yes, we were all impressed, it is not.

However, there is a danger that we would be overwhelmed by our own "It's not really electric" I almost cynical, but after wading through tons of GM press materials -.. Full sun and good intentions - to show me a couple of technical notes and pictures, which works exactly like the car and found it a very impressive piece of technology ..

I think the fact that there is a direct power transmission allows the engine to the wheels in certain situations (most engines), which generate losses and generally make the system more efficient, is something that should be welcomed. I do not understand the objections. The purpose of the exercise is ultimately to drive more economical.

Now we want to push GM to crack down on, to do with them. Preferably in the form Ampera, the United Kingdom.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Diva edition by Fenice Milano

Between the gallons of chrome and the Spirit of Ecstasy protruding from its prominent grille, the contemporary offerings from Rolls-Royce have become a favorite among the bling crowd. But there are always those looking for something more outlandish. We thought Mansory had them covered with their take on the Ghost, but even that's looking subdued in comparison to Fenice Milano's Diva.
Decked out in more gold than an aging Mediterranean playboy's neck, the Diva edition takes the borderline tasteful way over the top. The hood, grille, side sills and mirrors have all been coated in 24-karat gold, as has the interior, along with custom teak, leather and Alcantara trim. It's enough to make Liberace spin in his grave, and if you're wearing your gold D&G sunglasses, you can check it out for yourself in the gallery below and the press release after the jump.

Magnaflow Exhaust System Pro Performance 4 in. Tubing O.D. Size, Rear Side Exit, Single System

Magnaflow Exhaust System Pro Performance - Side, Satin, Stainless steel
Part Number: M6617974
Manufacturer Number: 17974
Magnaflow Exhaust System Magnaflow Exhaust System
List Price: $581.77
Our Price: $449.55
You Save: $132.22
Free Shipping
Info/Buy
MAGNAFLOW PRO PERFORMANCE SERIES DIESEL TURBO-BACK EXHAUST SYSTEM -- 50-state legal; Designed specifically to meet California Air Resources Board standards; Legal for sale or use in California; 4 in. Tubing O.D. Size, Rear Side Exit, Single System, Made Of 100% Tough And Durable Stainless Steel, Features A Fully Welded Satin Finish 100% Stainless Steel Muffler And Stainless Steel Band Clamps With Mandrel-Bent Stainless Steel Tubing, Dyno Tested And Proven To Provide Performance Gains In Horsepower And Torque, Offers Great Sound With A Smooth And Deep Tone, Built To Last, All Welded, Easy To Install, Optional 5 in. Diesel Tips Are Sold Separately, With Magnaflow's Limited Lifetime Warranty

Rahal poised to make series return as sub for injured Conway

Graham Rahal looks set to return to the Izod IndyCar Series for the upcoming race at Iowa Speedway on June 20.

The 21-year-old son of 1986 Indianapolis 500 winner Bobby Rahal is negotiating with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing to become the latest--and perhaps last--replacement for Mike Conway.

Conway was injured on the next to last lap of the Indianapolis 500 when his car flew into the catch fence in turn three after running over the left-side wheels of Ryan Hunter-Reay, whose car had slowed dramatically as it ran out of fuel.

Conway is expected to miss the rest of the season as his fractured back heals without surgery. He has had one surgery and a procedure on his lower left leg that was fractured in the crash. He was released from an Indianapolis hospital June 4 and is expected to return to his U.K. home later this week.

Rahal drove for his father’s team, Rahal Letterman Racing, at Indy, finishing 12th after starting seventh. He spent three pre-Indy races with Sarah Fisher Racing, finishing ninth in the race in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Tomas Scheckter drove Conway’s No. 24 car last weekend at Texas Motor Speedway, where he finished 13th.