At the rate at which Massachusetts-based firm Terrafugia is going, it’s true that the age of the Jetsons is not too far away! The flying car took its very first flight and the 45-second stint in the air sure seems to have lifted the spirits of all those who have been waiting for the arrival of wings and wheels on the streets. When in air, the Terrafugia is capable of about 115 mph, with a flying-only range of 450 miles. But it can fold up its wings and hit 65 mph on road with an efficiency of 30 mpg running on the same gasoline as your own vehicle. Priced at $194,000, do not expect to drive one of these anytime soon as a production model is still a long way away. [via WCF]

After getting their hands on a Scirocco and getting all the sweat out of it, the wicked folks from B&B managed to beef up a Volkswagen Tiguan. The compact SUV is getting four different power packages for its 2.0 liter TFSI engine. With the same price as the Scirocco upgrade (998 Euro) the first stage brings in 240 hp and 340 Nm, goes up at 256 hp, 286 hp and ultimately at 300 hp and 420 Nm of torque. That beefed up engine is being packed along with a new sport exhaust that reduces counter-pressure, a high-quality sport catalyst and a slim-line oil cooler. Doesn’t look bad with those stylish 20-inch alloy wheels, so you’d better consider it if you want a more powerful Tiguan.

Pretty aggressive and powerful, VW Scirocco just got a small facelift and some power tweaking from Siegen-based tuner B&B. Available for the 2.0-liter TFSI engine, the package features 6 stages of power ranging from 998 EUR for the 235hp and 340 Nm tweak, up to 350hp and 450Nm of torque. And if you’re asking what’s under the hood for the top of the line version, the folks from B&B added a a bigger turbo loader, an optimized crank shaft, forged pistons, and modified cylinder heads. So it’s all hard-work not just chips. That’s a mean Scirocco if you ask me … [via WCF]

Designed by Lutz Fügener and Jens Timmich and built by Melkus, the RS2000 looks pretty badass in itself. With only 25 units being produced, the supercars is quite exclusive. it features an extremely aerodynamic body (made of carbon fiber), stylish gullwing doors, a completely closed underbody, a large front lip spoiler, and a rear diffuser— helping reduce drag and improve downforce. Expected to be available for a big pale of green, Just look at these amazing pictures and blame fortune for being poor …

Audi R8 is pretty badass on itself, but not for the wicked tuners from Wheelsandmore. The 13,998 euros tuning package adds a compressor to the whole deal, making the beast pump nothing less than 530 horsepower. But it’s not only about power, because it features a braking system with 8-piston calipers at the front, 6-piston ones at the back, and high-performance pads. If all these are not enoguh and you still have more of those hard earned greenies, Wheelsandmore will add an aluminum race suspension for 3,999 euros or a 8,949-euro hydraulic lift full-race suspension, a 5,500 euro front lip spoiler and rear diffuser (carbon fiber) and two sets of 20-inch alloy wheels ranging from 9,250 to 9,800 euro. We’re sold … [via carscoop]

Renowned for their amazing trucks, Volvo could/should consider the latest 3D rendering from Vizualtech’s Bo Zolland. Dubbed the V70 pickup, the concept follows the Swedish theme with a S40 face, some aggressive front air intakers and stylish hood vents. Powered by an XC90 V8 engine that outputs 311 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, the car looks practical, functional and should definitely get the job done. Perfect for a beach party with two standing speakers, isn’t it? [via seriouswheels.com]

After all sorts of drawbacks in the last 18 months, world’s lowest priced car— Tata Nano, has been officially launched in India. Finally! Priced at 1 Lakh, or 100,000 Indian Rupees ($2,000), the company expects to produce some 350,000 units, but for 2009 only 100,000 will  meet their new owners. As for how they’ll reach their new owners … Tata taking registrations for an application fee of Rs. 300 ($6), with a deposit costing Rs. 3000 ($60). Although the car doesn’t meed safety requirements for most countries— they plan an improved version of the Nano for Europe though, it’s a very good solution for regular Indian people. [via WCF]

Vehicle tracking is no longer a necessity only for the most advanced of fleet management companies! New technology and the increase of vehicle tracking providers have made vehicle tracking affordable and available for every motorist. Unfortunately so too has the increase in small operators who promise the moon and the stars but seem unable to find it!

The benefits of vehicle tracking might be well known amongst fleet managers – but perhaps not so amongst the average vehicle owner. It is important for the vehicle owner to be alert to the benefits that vehicle equipment and tracking software can have in protecting the physical safety and the general well being of loved ones.

The Arrive Alive road safety website has compiled a guide for vehicle owners on the benefits of vehicle tracking and also on some of the aspects to consider when approached by sales people marketing their vehicle tracking technologies.

Many of the vehicle tracking suppliers will try to impress with sales talk and fancy brochures claiming to be the best. The truth is there is no ‘best’ vehicle tracking supplier, but there will be a supplier whose vehicle tracking products and services meet your specific requirements, are reliable, well established, and offer good support at the right price.
Visit the section “Vehicle Tracking and Road Safety” for information on how this technology can enhance your safety on the road.