Let's hope the next Corvette looks like this

There have been some exciting versions of the current C6 Corvette, including the Z06, ZR1, and for us regular workin’ Joes, the Grand Sport. But anticipation for the next-generation C7 Corvette has been running high, as evidenced by the off-the-charts pageviews we got from some spy shots of a mule testing a few months ago. Well, Trinity Animation, a graphical animation firm based in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, did one better by combining all the publicly-available knowledge, photos and renderings of the upcoming C7 and synthesizing all the information into a two and a half minute video giving us an idea of what it might look like in the flesh.

Among some of the noteworthy details show in the video are rectangular taillights similar to those on the Camaro, center-mounted quad tailpipe tips, LED accent lighting in the headlamps, and aggressive front fender vents. Another cool feature, if it makes it to production, are the LED lights on the outer rear edge of the rear wheel wells. Also, rather than the domed glass hatch on the current C6 Corvette, this rendering of the C7 shows side rear-quarter windows, and a flat glass rear hatch.

How close will Trinity’s animation be to the real deal? We’ll have to wait a few more months until the production C7 Corvette is unveiled. Possibly as early as the 2013 Detroit Auto Show in January.

source

McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition runs an imaginary track in California

 

At this week's Pebble Beach festitvus of automotive glories, McLaren will unveil this little exercise, a track-ready version of the MP4-12C that it's dubbed the 12C Can-Am Edition. It's titled in tribute to company namesake Bruce McLaren's glory years in the Can-Am race series of the late '60s and early '70s -- something McLaren and other automakers could do well to resurrect.

Starting with an MP4-12C finished in the same shade of orange that Bruce McLaren rode to 56 victories in Can-Am, McLaren lightened the 12C to 2,645 lbs. while boosting the engine to 630 hp. Combined with race-ready brakes, tires and interior, the 12C Can-Am edition looks ready to hit a track. Yet McLaren says for now, it's just a one-off to show during the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance this weekend.

While McLaren remains a force in Formula 1, the MP4-12C hasn't drawn nearly as much attention in its racing efforts, where it's lumped with the Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Audi R8 in European endurance events. What made the original Can-Am series so exciting was its openness, a kitchen-sink approach to racing that doesn't exist any more. Manufacturers are loathe to jump into a race series that could turn into an all-out arms race, but if any company would be willing to step to such a challenge, it should be McLaren.

source