Audi 'Googles' A New feature

Though they no longer have direct dealer rep in JA, I thought this wan an interesting tidbit

The Audi luxury saloon in the Audi A8 will stream Google information services to the dashboard, the company said.

The A8 will be able to retrieve information from the net using an optional integrated GPRS/EDGE modem in the MMI navigation plus module.

Drivers will be able to search online using free text search queries such as "hot dog" or "hotel", with the results displayed on the onboard map or used as destinations for calculating roots.

You will also be able to plan navigation destinations using the Audi web portal in the office or at home, and retrieve them when you're driving your car.

Spotless

The Poles may well have been the butt of dumb jokes, but this Polish masterpiece, dubbed Leopard, ought to wipe some of those smirks off. Truly a stunning example of automotive art and craftsmanship (I tried to get the two-tone one here - that'll take your breath away)

Purple Range Rover Autobiography

Purple Range Rover Autobiography
Originally uploaded by Basher-Tango

Purple People-Pleaser.
Not quite the latest model, but certainly an arresting colour on this Range

Three 'Little Birds'

So which do you fancy of the three mini-estate/SUVs? Land Rover is putting a lot of promo behind its LRX Concept, as is BMW for its forthcoming X1 or 'Baby X' (the vehicle is already a production model in Europe; N America should seea 2010/or 2011 availability) or the Mini Clubman - not all the models will lookas hot as this "choclatized" Clubman, but still a worthy successor to the all-purpsoe vehicle of the 70s.

take your pick (hint: mine has a 'X' in the title)

X6-tensial Notes II: Lines of the Times

The following from the Times of London on the X6: some ambivalence about the exterior design, and disappointment on the interior space, but no reservations about perfromance.

It works superbly: on a wet handling circuit through a slalom course the X6 displayed an astonishing willingness to change direction without understeering, and on a dry circuit it was rapid and beautifully balanced.

Its engine is glorious. It makes an old-school V8 grunt that starts out guttural and, once the rev counter has swung past 6000rpm, ends up sounding like the hammers of hell. Regrettably the V8 won’t be available until November; from its May launch the X6 will have the excellent 3 litre twin-turbo straight six, and two turbo diesels.

So BMW’s newest delivers on its driving promise without even needing a qualifying “for a 4x4”. Its hybrid coupé/off-roader styling may look strained, but it is at least different. Good though the X6 is, however, you can find a better driving experience with a number of executive saloons (the Merc CLS leaps to mind) that also provide a stand-out appearance.

So the X6 is a very good car, and with it BMW has cleverly carved itself a niche within a niche. You should think long and hard about exactly why you might want one, though, as many sacrifices must be made for that combination of nifty styling and commanding driving position.

Menawhile, back home, I engaged radio boss and emcee Francois St Juste - who sat i nthe X6 on display during the 7-series launch and oenophile (that's wine expert to you) Chris reckord, who actually drove one (he already owns an X3 and a 330Ci) Reckord praises the car's road manners and engine performance, while Francois liked the overall drive feel and is anxious to take it for a run.

This Bug Will Sip [natural] Gas

While some folks are successfully mixing gasoline and electric engines, VW thought, "why not mix natural gas and gasoline?" That's what they're planning on doing with the EcoFuel VW Touran.


Unfortunately, natural gas isn't on the path toward carbon neutrality...but it is certainly better than the alternative. Natural gas is a much cleaner fuel than gasoline, and the majority of the U.S. demand is satisfied by production on this continent. You can also fill up using the natural gas line at your home (without having to pay a road tax.)

But the even more fascinating thing to me about this is that, when running on gasoline (it can do either, to eliminate that pesky "range anxiety" factor) it gets 45 MPG. This is an extremely impressive number for a minivan, and they're doing it with some fancy technology.

First, they start out with a fairly tiny 1.4 L engine, then add direct injection technology and a turbo-charger (so that acceleration times aren't too dismal) and suddenly they're squeezing a lot of power out of every drop of gas.

Of course, there are no plans to sell the car in North America, and we haven't seen a release date or a price (which we expect to be very high) but it's exciting nonetheless

"X6-tensial" Notes

The circle has been closed - kind of.

After flirtations withthe M3 and regular 3-series, iwenttothe launch of the 7-series and rediscovered my affection for......the X6

Yes, that quirky shape but glued-to-the-road sport ute coupe that has galvanized the automotive press into strong reactions (check our archives).

So, I 've started a series of features on the X6 under the banner "X6-tensial" (get it?) We begin witht this one form autoblog.com, which is a basic descriotion of th e then concept X6 by fomrer design head of BMW , Chris Bangle.

The BMW X6 production concept CUV blends the looks and driving dynamics that aficionados expect with the high seating position and extra cargo space of a crossover. The X6 appears to be more of a fashion statement than it is a fully functioning "Sport Activity Vehicle," as that steeply raked butt dooesn't look like it can hold too many golf bags inside.

One look at the X6 reveal comments shows how polarizing the big utility "coupe" is, but the video of the X6 after the jump makes the concept look like a world-beater. Chris Bangle and his design team give us a peek at the new sports crossover, as well as the thinking behind BMW's next big idea. Take a look after the jump.

Other upcpming X6 features will have artists' impressions (our "X6-vision") as well as J'can owner testimonials. Stay tuned

Benz to bring in stop-start system for 2010 models

From Benz Insider:
Mercedes-Benz is said to be working on having the stop-start technology on all engines by 2011. Mercedes will introduce the stop-start technology on the E200 CGI, which is a 4 cylinder with 181 hp, from the middle of next year. Autocar reports that by 2011, Mercedes-Benz aims to overcome the issue with fitting the technology on automatics, especially on V6 and V8 models, which have automatic gearboxes fitted as standard.

Christoph Spengel, head of engine development for MB states, “Fitting the system to any engine and gearbox is not a problem, we can get reliability quite easily. Achieving the smoothness of the start is the real problem. Engaging the starter takes a little time, and then firing the engine takes a little time, and it is important that our system does not disturb the driver.”

Nerw BMW 7-Series: "I'll Take The Wheel Today, James"

Even though the 'grand unveiling' featured track star Usain Bolt emegring from the backseat with a faux chauffeur tipping his hat at the wheel, the new BMW 7-series represents a serious attempt by the carmaker (a least on this side of the world) to breka out of the "chauffeur mode" as a car usually confined to emabssies and foreign missions (and the odd J$ billionaire)to be an executive car that well-heeled execs may actually wish to drive for themsleves.

As the promo material states, its not about design, its about desire. The entire aesthetic of the car, with its long, low sweep (the unveiled model was actually a 740 Li)superb interior and long list of creature comforts and "driver's aids" (how about Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection, or Active Cruise Control?) speaks to a sensory expeirence that gently but firmly includes the technically clueless, without alienating hard-core autophiles.

Indeed, its the beauty of BMWs that, unlike their neighbours in Stuttgart, Bavarian Motor Works (OK, so we've dispensed with the full German spelling) have managed to keep their 'motor works' soulful even as the become more stately. The new 7, like the new 5 that preceded it, looks elegant, but not snooty.

Of ocurse, we were not allowed the proof of the pudding - which is the driving.CEO Duncan Stewart declined our "hints" at a test drive with a polite but no less resounding "not yet" that suggested that perhaps the remainder of this calendar year was out of the question.

Nonetheless, the new 7 has, on looks alone, more than lived up to its billing as a first-class luxury saloon. As to how many takers there will be for such a thing in this constrained environment (when a Government would have the gall to put a tax on books... for God's sake! - but we digress) is anybody's guess. This writer figures realistically they could move 3 units - maybe as many as 5, but hey, we could be wrong.

As for Bolt, he's already got an M3, which goes form 0-100 mph faster than "Mr 2 Di Worl" can cover the 100 metres, but if he were to 'upgrade' we could easily see him dispensing with the hired driver.

"I'll take the wheel today, James"

I meanr THIS Tuesday: 7-series Pt Deux

OK, so I jumped th gun a bit, but the date was correct Tues April 28 will see the official J'can presentation of the new BMW 7-series. Following is a release on the event and the car, which has also been named by luxury goods tracker www.justluxe.com to its list of 10best Luxury Sedans

On April 28th, 2009, Stewart Motors proudly unveils the new BMW 7 Series, confirming their unflagging commitment to quality service and exemplary performance.


The countdown is on for the start of a new era. There are many ways to prepare for the start of a new era.The new BMW 7 Series, the flagship of the BMW brand is about to set new standards in the luxury sedan segment. Its unique yet elegant design combines impressive presence and powerful superiority.

Setting the benchmark in terms of performance, comfort and safety, the new BMW 7 Series offers numerous innovations such as Integral Active Steering and BMW Night Vision with personal recognition.

The rear seats offer the passenger incomparable comfort with enormously generous leg and headroom, a wide range of attractive communication, entertainment, air conditioning and seat comfort options.

With State of the Art BMW EfficientDynamics technology the new BMW 7 Series is the first sedan in the luxury segment to offer fuel saving measures.

The design of the new BMW 7 Series incorporates impressive presence, sporting appeal and power in one extraordinary vehicle.

The interior of the new BMW 7 Series is tailor made to satisfy the most demanding expectations. Fine materials and attention to detail allow every passenger to feel at ease from the first moment on.

Cockpit and driver ambience makes for perfect driving pleasure: Multi-functional steering wheel, anew instrument cluster with innovative back-panel technology, full colour LCD display and optimized iDrive offer the driver all the essential car functions within easy reach. The rear passenger compartment is as luxurious and exclusive as the cockpit. Apart from perfect ergonomics the passenger is provided with Rear Seat Entertainment and back seat massage function.

Whether driving, or being driven, the new BMW 7 Series offers a high-class driving experience for everybody.




The new BMW 7 Series also offers a wide range of the latest technical features which represent best-in-segment technologies, confirming the BMW leadership in technology and innovation.

Dynamic Damping Control: for enhanced ride and choice of “sport” or “comfort” settings.
BMW xDrive: intelligent all wheel drive system
Integral Active Steering: increase agility at low speeds and increased stability at high speeds.
Head-Up Display: increase driver orientation, comfort and safety
Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Change Warning: alerts you of vehicles in the blind spot
Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go: ensures you remain a predefined distance away from the car ahead, slowing to a stop if necessary


The Stewart Family has been in the automotive industry since 1938 and has what can only be described as a stellar reputation in automotive Sales and Service.

Are you prepared?

This Tuesday is '7' Day

The newly updated 7-series will have its Jamaican close-up come Tuesday April 28, at the German Embassy in Kingston, to boot. The new flagship sedan is also featured in the current issue of the BMW magazine.

Also relatively new, a 1-series convertible is now avaialable - by order, of course.

X6 on Steroids

After months of spy photos , videos and speculation the time has finally come for the reveal of the new BMW X6 M whic marks a new turn in the M genes for BMW.

This will be the first M vehicle to come from BMW in the SAV department and New York will be the place where suspecting enthusiasts , future buyers , or those just interested in seeing the beast in person will get a chance to drool in person at the vehicle. Looks wise expect M aerodynamics, more aggressive wheels, and signature quad tail exhaust pipes.

Performance numbers will be nothing short of outstanding via a modified version of BMW's twin-turbocharged version of BMW's 4.4L V-8. This engine should be good for 500 horsepower- mind you, this is sport activity vehicle. The X6 is known for great handling and with the M engine and suspension this should be one of , if not the fastest BMW SAV 's to date. A rocketship on wheels with comfortable seating for four adults. Other standard features include standard all wheel drive.

Competitors for the BMW X6 M include the top of the line Mercedes-Benz ML AMG vehicle and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.

Also look for the new BMW Z4 Roadster and the new BMW 7 Series at the show this year.

Car of the Week # 3

This one's for Sale too. call 368-3258

Silver Benz: Car Of the Week #2

The streets of New Kingston are great for spotting Euro-cars. We began with a Bimmer, and now follow withthis convertible Benz, snapped outside the Sagicor (formerly LOJ) Centre on Knutsford.

Porsche Shakes Up The Cayenne even further

the Cayenne S Hybrid, which will be introduced in North America next year. It will combine a supercharged three-liter V-6 engine (333 horsepower/324 pound-feet of torque) with an electric motor (52 horsepower/221 pound-feet of torque) placed between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission.

Porsche says the Cayenne S Hybrid can vault from a stop to 60 miles an hour in about 6.5 seconds and be able to coast for up to 1.2 miles at 86 mph using only the electric motor. It expects the hybrid powerplant to get slightly better fuel mileage than the diesel engine.

Among the quarter million sport-utility vehicles sold since 2002, more than 85,000 Cayennes have been delivered to U.S. and Canadian customers since their introduction. In addition to North America, Porsche considers China, Russia, Latin America and the Middle East to be important future markets.

The Porsche SUV lineup in North America has grown to five models - Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne GTS, Cayenne Turbo and Cayenne Turbo S. All powered by gasoline engines, they range in power from a 290-horsepower V-6 to a 550-horsepower turbocharged V-8.

Porsche has no current plans to sell a diesel Cayenne in the United States, but says it will consider it if there is sufficient consumer interest.

When Cayenne No. 1 was built in 2002, some Porsche purists rolled their eyes in dismay and a few probably still harbor lingering doubts about the very idea of a Porsche SUV, particularly one with some Volkswagen DNA embedded in its Porsche genes.

But Porsche has shown the hand wringers to be shortsighted. The Cayenne has been well received from the start and profits have allowed the company to expand, upgrade and improve its model lineup

Car of the Week - A test

Just to inaugurate a new feature, here's a test shot of a BMW530i, shot i nthe parking lot of the RKA Building in New Kingston

Send in your shots for consideration. All German makes (any model year and type)eligible.

Mark the date: Bimmamania

In the tradition of Bimmerfest (US.UK) and the Concorso d' Italia, look out this September for Bimmamania: the Ultimate Jam. check back for more details.

Mercedes: a 'Slumdog's' Dream Car?

And.....The Oscar for the Best Car Picture goes to Slumdog Millionaire because the movie cast several Mercedes Benz in the much overlooked, but never-the-less best supporting car roles.

There were several Mercedes featured in the movie including a white and silver one that belonged to a Mumbai slum gangster, and one blue one that is stripped as a crucial part of the plot.
However, as director Danny Boyle points out (and viewers might notice), one of the Benzes in the film is devoid of the famous Tri-Star logo. The white Benz driven by a then formative slum gangster is 'left bare' because Mercedes somehow fewlt association with a Mumbai slum was bad for its image.

Mercedes-Benz apparently gave permission for its logo to appear on the gangster's new (second silver) Mercedes when it was parked outside his mansion and on a car hired by wealthy American tourists (the one that was stripped). They however did not want Mercedes star seen on the first white gangster's Merc because they did not want to be associated with a Mumbai slum.

So there you have it. The Best Car Picture of the year has to go to Slumdog because neither Frost nor Nixon, Milk, or Button drove anything as beautiful and scandalous as a naked Merc.

New TTs on view

The Internet is far from watertight, so we’re not too surprised photos of the new 2009 Audi TT RS leaked onto the World Wide Web ahead of the car’s debut. In light of the embargo breach, Audi went forth and officially released these three images, although it’s still holding the technical data close to its heart.
We expect to know more on the Audi TT RS by March 3, when it will officially be unveiled at the 2009 Geneva motor show. Stay with Automobile Magazine for the latest on the TT RS and other happenings from the Geneva show.

My next Bimmer

for some reason, I've been evisioning myself driving the 330 CI convertible from the 2002/03 model year. Not sure exactly why but something about it just strikes as the car I should have.
Waht's your ideal German auto? Post and let me know

Bimmer goes 'GT'

The folks in Munich just seem to be busy, busy, busy. Here's the latest product extension (any news on the X1 guys?) The following on their 5-series GT (which we've been following in the media since mid-2008

With the future still offering sufficient room for an exciting new
drivingexperience, BMW has once again defined a brand-new vehicle
segment:The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the series-based
adaptationof the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) in the upper midrange
segment,offering an impressive outlook on the extension of the BMW 5 Series
by anew, additional concept.

'Allroad' A4 from Audi

Audi has announced an ‘allroad’ version of the A4 Avant that will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Like the Audi A6 allroad, the Audi A4 allroad features mildly-raised suspension, quattro four-wheel drive, and a toughened, off-road appearance. It is not a true SUV, but does offer greater off-road capability than a conventional saloon or estate.

This includes allroad-specific stability control, complete with Offroad Detection (ORD) system. This monitors the terrain the A4 allroad is driving over, and adjusts the stability control systems accordingly – allowing more wheelspin if this is what’s best to maintain momentum, for example.

Based on the regular Audi A4's SE specification, the allroad’s equipment levels are generous – including three-zone climate control, automatic lights and wipers, and 10-speaker stereo. The allroad also features unique 18-inch alloys with allroad-specific car tyres, bespoke interior trim and additional interior storage compartments.

Available options include Audi 'drive select' – which allows fine-tuning of chassis settings and other parameters – plus 'side assist', a blind spot monitor that vibrates the steering wheel if drivers attempt a dangerous lane change

VW of America makes the Beetle 'Blush'

Volkswagen of America has announced the addition of a new special-edition model to its lineup - the New Beetle Convertible “Blush”.

The Blush, which will be built in limited numbers, comes with no mechanical improvements over the regular model, although it does get the same 112kW (150hp), 230Nm (170lb/ft) 2.5-litre engine that’s standard fitment to US-market Beetles - a good deal more powerful than the 75kW (101hp) unit we get here in Oz.

What sets it apart from the cooking model Beetle, however, is a unique White Gold metallic paint scheme and luscious red leather interior, as well as a red soft-top. Fun fact: the Blush is the only model in the Beetle range that comes with a genuine leather interior. All the others make do with a synthetic “Leatherette” substitute.

Rumour has it that an all-new Beetle is on the way, and this may be the folks at Volks attempt to clear the lot before the new model debuts.

BM-Benz?

Germany's two prestige car brands, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, are stepping up plans to share research and manufacturing as they seek ways to cut costs during the economic downturn, a German newspaper reported Sunday.

All cooperation was conceivable provided it was not noticeable to customers or detrimental to the two unique brands, senior executives were quoted as saying by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.

BMW, based in Munich, and Daimler, the Mercedes-Benz maker based in Stuttgart, have been in talks for years on pooling resources, but such moves have been obstructed by engineers opposed to using the arch-rival's technologies, the newspaper said.

Day by day, the pressure of costs was overcoming that resistance, the newspaper added. It said the first contracts were ready to sign, but the two companies were not planning any cross-shareholding in one another.

Premium cars have suffered a sharp downturn in world sales.

A Daimler spokesman responded Sunday that the company would not comment and everything that had to be said would be announced on Tuesday by senior executives at an annual financial-results news conference.

At BMW, a spokesman said the talks were public knowledge and 'not new,' but he denied there had been any new concrete outcome to the talks. He said the two groups were already jointly developing hybrid power units and conducting joint purchasing of components.

Those components were out-of-sight items under the skin of the cars such as air-conditioner parts or seat-belt-tension springs.

Audi readies nex gen A8

recession? what recession. With BMW premiering the new 7-series, and Benz working on an updated S (as well as AMG version) it seems the German carmakers are polishing up their flagship sedans for a hard push come next model year. Shown is the Next generation Audi A8, which of course will go head-to-head with the aforementioned brands.

Benz Spruces Uo the 'S'

The current generation Mercedes Benz S-Class and its associated AMG performance models have been on the market since the middle of the decade and are due to receive a minor update later this year to keep them fresh for their rivalry with the recently revealed BMW 7-series and next-generation Audi A8 arriving in 2010. Recent prototypes seen testing in Germany and the United States reveal that the only major exterior updates for the car are a set of new bumpers, new side mirrors, and a revised combination projector/LED design for the headlights.

These latest shots show an AMG version testing for the first time, revealing a new bumper design with squared-off intakes similar to those seen on the SL65 Black Series. Other clear giveaways that this is a high-performance model are the chunky cross-drilled brakes and quad exhaust pipes. New daytime running lights will also make an appearance.

Despite current concerns about global warming and a possible end to the horsepower war between Germany’s in-house tuners, the new S63 Estate will continue with the potent hand-built 6.2L V8. Power should remain around the 525hp (391kW) mark. A similar story can be told for the V12-powered S65, which should output the same 612hp (456kW) output as the current model. Expect to see engineers focusing on improving the efficiency of the cars through the use of direct-injection technology, engine stop-start systems, and more lightweight materials.

The facelifted S-Class range is expected to make its world debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. While the standard models should be on sale before the end of the year, the AMG pair are not expected to hit showrooms until early 2010.

Coming Soon - "The Praudi?"

Audi and Prada, that Italian status symbol in the world of high-fashion clothing, have announced that they will hook up on "joint projects in the areas of sport and culture."

No word yet of any joint project in terms of vehicles. The two said they are planning to work together in 2009, linking their logos in high-profile events. First out of the box is a sporting event in February. The two will jointly sponsor the yacht "Luna Rossa" during the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series — thus stacking brand name upon brand name.

"Audi and Prada are strong brands," said Peter Schwarzenbauer, Audi AG board of management member for marketing and sales. "We aim to pool these strengths and build up a long-term partnership."

Inside Line says: Here's hoping that the devil may not be the only one wearing Prada, since we have little trouble envisioning an Audi R8 Prada Edition. —

Well, we have a Prada phone, so...why not

10 Years of the X5

Since its arrival, its been the falgship of the BMW line, and quickly found favour with J'can buyers (although intial response to the X6 may have surpassed that)

BMW celebrates a decade of the X5, dubbed the Spoerta Activity vehicle (SAV)

Porsche - with 4 doors - speeds into Shanghai

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, will be presenting the new Panamera to the public for the first time at Auto Shanghai 2009 in China from 20 – 28 April. Porsche’s unique, four-door Gran Turismo will be making its world debut at a press conference on 19 April and will be entering the market in late summer 2009.

The four-door Panamera combines a wide range of features seemingly contradictory at first sight, and offering a unique synthesis quite unparalleled in the premium segment: The Panamera comes with all the sporting and dynamic characteristics of a genuine Porsche combined with a very high standard of motoring comfort. Despite its extra-low and sleek coupé silhouette, in turn, the Panamera offers more than ample space and roominess inside for four passengers and variable loading space for a substantial amount of luggage. And last but not least, the Panamera proudly boasts power units offering a high standard of fuel efficiency despite the car’s outstanding performance.

VW steps on the gas with online ads

Online advertising might be one of the few areas that benefit from the imploding auto industry.

Maybe it was the success of General Motors, Chrysler and Ford, which used advertising campaigns on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and elsewhere to beg for a bailout, but now other automakers say they plan to move advertising from other places, such as television, magazines and newspapers, and push them toward online.

Automakers want to spend less and target better, so buying advertising, creating content, including video, and getting involved more in social media marketing makes sense. Tim Ellis, VP-marketing at Volkswagen of America’s VW brand, told AdAdge that the company plans more digital advertising because “that’s where all the conversations are.”

GM has already announced it was slashing its budget, including no Super Bowl ad, so how much online advertising will benefit is still fluid.

TT gets update, as does A3

From Which? News, UK 06 January 2009

Audi is welcoming the New Year with limited Black Edition A3 models, and an expanded range of TT sports cars.

The Black Edition Audi A3 is available as a three-door hatch, five-door 'Sportback' hatch, or A3 Cabriolet. As the name suggests, the most striking visual feature of these models is that they have been ‘de-chromed’. This means black finished grills, and on the Cabriolet black surrounds for the rollbars and shoulder line.

Finishing off the mean looks are Xenon headlights with LED running lights, tinted rear glass for the hatchbacks, and 18-inch alloys in exclusive 'dark titanium' finish. A choice of three paint colours is available – with Brilliant Black or Ibis White as no-cost options.

These Black Editions are based on the range-topping S line trim, so they already feature sporty bodywork and suspension, plus part-leather seats and electronic climate control. In addition, the Black Edition features a Bose stereo, rear parking sensors, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and 'Piano black' interior inlays.

S line trim is available across the TT range

Alongside the A3 Black Edition announcement, Audi has also revealed changes to the TT line-up.

Both 2.0-litre turbo petrol and 2.0-litre turbodiesel versions of the Audi TT will now be available with the option of quattro four-wheel drive, while a new top-spec S line trim is also being introduced across the range.

BMW Jamaica plays 3, 7

Look out for local launches of the new 3 and 7 series from Stewart Motors. No firm dates yet, but keep checking the autobahn for more.