Deol Dhamaka!: Melodrama overload: Apne (2007)

Everyone loves to pretend that the know celebrities personally. We read about their likes, dislikes, wishes, dreams, fears, hopes, etc. and develop a relationship with them from afar. And when celebrities draw you in to their inner circle by making you feel like a part of their family, the feeling of knowing them only increases. We start to feel personally invested in these people, in their successes and failures. We start to care about not only the individual stars, but their offspring too. It's kind of messed up, actually.

So when news of the film Apne started hitting the rounds, I was very excited. Seeing Dharmendra and his two sons together on-screen? Of course I wanted to see that! It was the first time we were going to see all three Deol men together, playing family members. You could tell from the early promos that it was going to be a sappy-sweet family drama, which did make me a bit apprehensive about it (I feared another K3G), so I didn't quite go rushing out to the theatres. In fact, I didn't get around to it at all until January 2011. And it certainly was a melodrama-fest, but not as god-awful as K3G ... perhaps thanks to the fact that most of the cast (excluding Booby Deol and Katrina Kaif) can actually act.

Running toward each other in slow motion! No, not the romantic couple. The two sons running toward their father!

The story is fairly simple -- Dharmendra plays Baldev, an ex-boxing champ who was accused of cheating at the height of his career and suspended from the league. He has never gotten over the loss of his career and broods about it constantly. Before the start of the film, he had tried to train his son, Angad (Sunny Deol), to bring glory back to his family by winning the boxing championship. Though initially successful, Angad eventually quits boxing because of financial strain in the family. Baldev has never forgiven Angad for quitting on him, and their relationship is basically non-existent. A secondary strain on their relationship exists because Angad is responsible for his younger brother Karan (Booby Deol)'s disability. Karan was injured when Angad, in trying to defend his mother against goons demanding money from her, accidentally causes debris to fall on him.

They can never resist using Dharam's glamour shots in his films today. He's sooo dreamy!

Despite Karan's injury, he is a budding rock star and romantically involved with a young doctor named Nandini (Katrina Kaif). Angad is also married to the lovely and spirited Simran (Shilpa Shetty) and has a young son. Baldev's wife Raavi (Kirron Kher) and Simran constantly try to hold the damaged, fraying family together, but Baldev's bitterness affects them all deeply.

The one-handed dance!

Unable to bear Baldev's unhappiness, Karan decides to forget his dreams of stardom and bring honor and dignity back to the family by taking up boxing. His girlfriend Nandini helps him through a medical procedure for "magic hand fix" (too bad this wasn't around for Mohnish Behl's character in Hum Saath Saath Hai), and he trains hard, eventually reaching the championship level in U.S.A.

 

HAHAHA! Katrina's ACTING you guys!

He is pitted against reigning champion Luca Gracia, and does quite well until Luca cheats. Karan is seriously injured (again! This guy has worse luck than a V.C. Andrews heroine) and hospitalized, and Baldev is devastated to see what his ambition has caused.

 

Hair sweat flying in slow-mo!

When Angad realizes what happened to Karan, he challenges Luca to fight him. Baldev, already brokenhearted, tries to tell Angad not to do it. He says there is no way he can train in time for the match, but Angad refuses to listen to anyone. He trains hard and funnels all of his rage and frustration into his boxing. Will he win the championship and restore Baldev to glory? Will Karan survive and marry Nandini? And WTH, they have a sister (Divya Dutta)?

 

THOUGHTS WHILE WATCHING APNE

• I can't believe Apne was Katrina Kaif's 9th film. She is horrendously bad. She was so bad in this film that I had to actually LAUGH at her expressions. Especially her close-ups when Booby's getting the crap beat outta him.

LOL. Seriously. I was cracking up at her "acting" ...

• Booby Deol is not much better. I actually thought his acting was miserably bad in this movie.

• For some reason everyone in Apne has red-tinted hair. What was that all about? Are they the Weasleys?

• Watching Katrina try to dance in this song is hilarious, because she almost falls over:

• Booby Deol's fight scenes are excruciating to watch. He has MOOBS. And they jiggle, in slow motion.

 

• Divya Dutta is criminally underused. She is one "over-actress" that I actually enjoy.
• Sunny's character is a total masochist. Kind of like Akshay Kumar's character in Dhadkan.

• But then he transforms into CRAZYEYES!Sunny and it is awesome. Particularly when he's dropping gratuitous f-bombs. Except he doesn't quite get it right. I don't think you want to yell "I'LL F*CK YOU!" over and over to your enemy.

This is a little beyond CRAZY EYES, Sunny ...

• Besides the red, Dharam also develops a streak in his hair like Rogue from X-Men.

• Sunny and Shilpa's kid in this movie seems very ... "special" ...

• Dharam's character is one selfish baaaaastaaaard for the way he treats his entire family -- all for the sake of Eternal Glory. This ain't the Triwizard Tournament, Baldev. Interesting how in both this film and Yamla Pagla Deewana, Dharam plays a total selfish jerk that both his sons worship. Particularly Sunny, who is his punching bag in both films. Thankfully, he doesn't seem to be that guy in real life. Also, I did sincerely appreciate his acting in this film. He did indeed seem devastated; a shell of himself. And despite how selfish his character is, you do find yourself rooting for him.

• Ultimately Sunny's character Angad is the one I sympathized with the most. He is so sweet and humble, so saddened by his father's rejection of him, and so noble. His scenes of training also provide an AWESOMELY bad song.

 

All in all, despite making fun of it throughout the watching experience, I'll say I enjoyed the movie. It was heartwarming, tearjerking goodness - a shameless melodrama fest. The story itself was interesting enough in how it unfolded, and they added in little bits that I didn't expect (like Luca having his own motivations and weaknesses). Solid performances from Dharam, Sunny, Kirron and Shilpa outweighed the lackluster performances of Booby and Katrina. And ultimately, it's a celebration of family!

Thank you again to all the great friends and colleagues that made DEOL DHAMAKA such a blast. I can't believe we have over 100 links for Deol Dhamaka! Please be sure to visit the links list and check out all the fun and creativity that Deol Dhamaka inspired this month.

And I definitely have to give the renowned title of MISS DEOL DHAMAKA to one of my favorite BollyBloggers, Ness of Shahrukh is Love. Ness created a blog post for literally EVERY SINGLE DAY of Deol Dhamaka, and I think they are all brilliant and hilarious.

And much love to all the fabulous participants, all talented bloggers in their own right! The blogs below have far more to offer than just Deol Dhamaka fare, so I definitely recommend that you follow them!

• Totally Filmi
• Beth Loves Bollywood
• Shahrukh is Love
• Roti Kapada aur Rum
• Nayika Talks
• In praise of all things Dharmendra-related
• Perdue in Bollywood
• Pakhi Pakhi: Stranger in a Strange Land
• Nakhrewali's Nothing Big, Nothing Grand
• Bollywood Deewana
• My Year of Prakash Raj
• The Bombay Talkies
• Lime Reviews - Confessions of a Bollywood Addict

*if I have missed anyone inadvertently, please, please let me know!

2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe

2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 510 hp and 420 pound-feet of torque. Aston Martin DBS coupe estimates will accelerate from zero to 100 km / h (62 mph) in 4.3 seconds.

Interiors 2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe is one of the best examples of British art. Thin carbon fiber trim and elegant lines of the port areas of cut aluminum wheels and an optional piano black trim (a must-have) adorn the center console.

2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe should be quite a few safety equipment for an exotic sports car. Stability and traction control and ABS brakes are standard carbon-ceramic disc. Side airbags front and rear fog lights are standard.

The special edition Carbon Black trim features lightweight carbon fiber and Kevlar sport seats with black leather trim and silver stitching, piano black trim, gloss black alloy wbeels, six-speed auto transmission, anodised black tread plates and a bespoke Carbon Black metallic paint.

Sporting a 510-horsepower V-12, massive wheels and a low-slung hood, the DBS competes with supercars like the Ferrari 599 GTB and Maserati GranTurismo. The rear-wheel-drive DBS crowns Aston Martin's three-car lineup and is available as a coupe or convertible. It shares its platform with the similarly styled DB9 and less expensive V8 Vantage, both of which have convertible variants.

New for 2011
There are no significant changes for 2011.

Exterior
Those who have seen a mid-'90s DB7 or anything newer should recognize the DBS as an Aston. Its trapezoidal grille and low-slung hood mimic the V8 Vantage and DB9; the front air dam is larger, the bumper has a few more etchings, and the rear sports an aggressive underbody air diffuser. Exterior features include:
• Constructed from lightweight aluminum, magnesium and carbon fiber
• Aluminum chassis
• Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
• LED taillamps
• 20-inch wheels standard
• Available lightweight 20-inch wheels
• Power retractable fabric roof (convertible)
Interior
The two-seat interior looks much like that of the DB9. The center stack starts with the air-conditioning vents up top and flows down to the center armrest. A small cargo area behind the seats can hold a custom luggage set. The rear cargo area can be replaced with additional seats to increase seating capacity to four. This configuration comes standard on the convertible. Interior features include:
• Leather-upholstered dashboard, armrest, steering wheel and seats
• Choice of ultrathin racing seats or chunkier, but still heavily bolstered, sport seats
• Available navigation system
• Available Bang & Olufsen stereo
Under the Hood
The engine sits in front of the driver and passenger but is pushed back toward the center of the car. The automatic transmission is similar to the unit used in the DB9, but with beefed-up internal parts to handle the extra power. Mechanical features include:
• 510 hp and 420 pounds-feet of torque
• Mid-mounted 6.0-liter V-12
• Zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds
• Standard six-speed manual transmission
• Available six-speed automatic with paddle shifter
• Adaptive suspension adjusts dampers to changing road conditions
Safety:
• Antilock brakes
• Traction control
• Electronic stability system

Hyundai Blue2 Concept

Hyundai has just unveiled the all-new Hyundai Blue2 Concept car at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show in Korea. 2011 Hyundai Blue2 Concept aims to satisfy all the senses of future drivers, including the air they breathe. Hyundai Blue2 concept is powered by a fuel cell electric system that delivers a stack power of 90kW (1.65kW/L) and fuel economy of 34.9km/l.

The concept is the Korean automaker's first sedan-style FCEV. Hyundai did not disclose production plans for the Blue2, which it says is read as "Blue Square," but it appears to be focusing more on hybrid and fuel-cell vehicles than pure electric vehicles at this point. Hyundai says that the name comes from a combination of the company's "Blue Drive" and the number 2 from H2, the symbol for hydrogen gas.

Aesthetically speaking, the Blue2 Sedan Concept has an exterior whose design language is being described as ‘Intersected Flow’ with other external features complementing the contoured form of the car, including the LCD screen panels on both the front and back, side cameras in place of the standard side mirrors, a roof camera, and automatic opening doors.





Press Release

Hyundai to Showcase New Thinking at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show

• Hyundai unveils next-gen FCEV sedan concept ‘Blue2' and Sonata Hybrid

• Cutting-edge eco-friendly and telematics technologies show Hyundai's future

• Separate booth displays Hyundai's latest commercial vehicle technology

Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea's largest automaker, showcased its latest `new thinking' on products, technologies and services to the world at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show, which opened today under the theme of ‘Evolution, Green Revolution on Wheels.'

Hyundai unveiled its latest eco-friendly creation, the Blue2 (Read as "Blue square") concept vehicle, the company's first sedan-style Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) powered by hydrogen. The automaker also introduced its first gasoline-hybrid vehicle, the Sonata Hybrid, to its home market. Most importantly, Hyundai applied its new brand direction, "New Thinking. New Possibilities.", throughout its exhibition, including its customer-oriented booth design, entertaining displays and cutting edge future technologies.

"Hyundai's goal is not to be the biggest car company, but the most loved. We want to be a reliable partner to our customers, supporting their happiness, rather than a company that pursues its own interests," said Steve S. Yang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor. "We will ceaselessly introduce world-class products of the best quality to overcome the difficult market environment and turn it into an opportunity, while modestly listening to the voice of the customer." In particular, Hyundai will focus on "improving quality, creating new values through new thinking, and developing advanced eco-friendly technologies to contribute to a greener society," Yang said.

Blue2

Hyundai Motor staged a world premiere of its new concept car, Blue2 (codenamed HND-6), a mid-size FCEV which shows a blueprint for future sedans. The name ‘Blue2' is a combination of Hyundai's sub eco-brand ‘Blue Drive' and the number `2' from H2, the symbol for hydrogen gas.

Aiming at gaining early leadership of the FCEV market, Blue2 is powered by a fuel cell electric system that delivers a stack power of 90kW(1.65kW/L) and fuel economy of 34.9km/?. The Blue2 is materialized in a sporty and luxurious style, a combination of futuristic, flowing designs and eco-friendly features. The Blue2 is equipped with low-resistance tires and alloy wheels which are designed to improve aerodynamic performance, while the car's interior design encompasses a futuristic look by using eco-friendly new materials.

Hyundai's concept keywords for the exterior design are ‘Intersected Flow,' featuring innovative and dynamic designs. The vehicle's condition is visible via unique and futuristic images on the exterior of the car through outside LED screen panels, which are located on both the front and rear of the car. Blue2 also features a welcome system which recognizes the driver, while an automatic opening door system enhances the driver's convenience. Conventional side mirrors are replaced by side cameras and a roof camera, offering a state-of-the-art driving environment.

The exterior designs flow inside the vehicle, with asymmetrically-designed dashboards and doors to optimize a driver's convenience and add emotional value. Wider seats enable people to get in and out of the vehicle more comfortably.

Hyundai combined the cluster and center fascia, applying an advanced Transparent Organic Light Emitting Diode (TOLED) monitor and ultra-light tempered glass, called Gorilla® Glass, providing more accurate and vivid graphic information. The infotainment system is operated by a Motion Sensor Moustick, a haptic wheel and motion sensor that respond to the driver's touch and hand movements, respectively, giving drivers a new experience.

Blue2 aims to satisfy all the senses of future drivers, including the air they breathe: A cluster ionizer freshens the air inside the vehicle, while antibacterial genuine leather with leaf-shaped patterns, called ‘eco-graphic perforation,' enhances an eco-friendly look and feel.

Sonata Hybrid

Hyundai also unveiled its first gasoline hybrid model, the Sonata Hybrid, to its home market. The Sonata Hybrid, which made its world debut at the 2010 New York International Auto Show, also encompasses Hyundai's new thinking, as Hyundai developed the world's first full parallel hybrid system and applied lithium-ion polymer batteries to a hard type hybrid model for the first time in the world.

Equipped with a Nu 2.0 Hybrid engine, a 6-speed hybrid automatic transmission and a 30kW hard type hybrid electric motor, the Sonata hybrid delivers a peak output of 191ps (engine: 150ps, electric motor: 41ps) and the best fuel economy in its class at 21.0km/? (All specifications limited to the Korean market).

The Sonata Hybrid, which is based on Hyundai's best-selling mid-size sedan, differs from the gasoline model with its dynamic `hexagonal grille.' The vehicle also has an `Eco Guide Gauge' on its cluster to help drivers build more economical driving habits. The Sonata hybrid will go on a sale in the Korean market in the first half of this year.

i40, Curb, and In-Vehicle Technologies

Along with Blue2 and the Sonata hybrid, Hyundai introduced i40, a mid-size wagon exclusively developed for the European market, which made its world debut at Geneva in March. Hyundai also displayed Curb (codenamed HCD-12), a compact Urban Activity Vehicle (UAV) concept unveiled at Detroit in January. Curb, targeted at the next generation of Hyundai buyers, is also a test bed for future Hyundai in-vehicle connectivity technology.

In order to promote its advanced eco-friendly technologies, Hyundai built a ‘Blue Drive Zone' at its booth, which displays its first Full Speed Electric Vehicle (FSEV) BlueOn and its electric bicycle ECCOV. Hyundai's most advanced powertrain technology will also be on display - some for the first time - including its 6-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) and 8-speed auto transmission, as well as its 1.6 Gamma Turbo GDi, Nu 2.0 GDi and Nu 2.0 CVVL (Continuously Variable Valve Lift) engines.

The ECCOV (Eco Community Vehicle), introduced at Geneva in March, boasts a maximum speed of 30 km/h and can travel as much as 50 km on a single charge in electric mode.

A total of five new future in-vehicle technologies introduced at the 2011 CES early this year were also on display: Smart Connectivity System, which allows drivers to connect their smart phones and tablet PCs with the vehicle; Motion Sensor Moustick, which recognizes the driver's hand movements through sensors to control the car's audio and navigation system; Dynamic Cluster, an LCD gauge and information system that is driver-customizable; Car Browser System and Web Platform, a fully functional Internet terminal; and Multifunctional Safety Vision System, a four-camera, 360-degree view around the vehicle.

Commercial Vehicles

Hyundai Motor set up a separate booth for its commercial vehicles under the concept of ‘Enjoyable Sensation Truck & Bus,' displaying three new models: The New Trago 27t Dump, Mega space-cab Tractor and the 2011MY Universe.

In order to promote its future eco-friendly technology, Hyundai's commercial vehicle booth also created a ‘Green zone,' showcasing its electric bus, diesel hybrid mega truck, hydrogen fuel cell bus cutaway and a new eco-friendly power system technology.

In particular, ‘Elec-City' is a zero-emission electric bus developed in-house. A test fleet of Elec-City will be operated in some metropolitan bus routes starting this year, while Hyundai plans to mass produce the buses starting in 2013. During the G20 Seoul Summit in 2010, Elec-City was used as the official shuttle bus for organizers and officials.

Equipped with three 100kW motors, Elec-City delivers a peak output which is equivalent to a combustion engine's 402ps and maximum speed of 100km/h. It can run 120 km on a single charge.

Hyundai also displayed two new commercial vehicle technologies: The Commercial Vehicle Telematics System, which collects real-time data from the vehicle to enable more efficient freight transportation management; and the 3.5t AMT system, which allows drivers to enjoy the convenience of an automatic transmission, with the fuel efficiency and power of a manual transmission.

New Thinking for Customers

Hyundai's new thinking could be seen in its booth layout and services, as well. By reversing the conventional thinking that motor shows are for cars, Hyundai brought a new concept that motor shows are for ‘visitors,' which means everything should be designed to maximize their enjoyable experience.

Hyundai's new booth enables visitors to comfortably view the cars, while the entire space on the second floor of the booth is used as a lounge where customers can relax and get a view of the whole booth. Hyundai is also providing FCEV shuttle bus services to and from the parking lot to the exhibition hall. Staff members at the booth will provide product information using tablet PCs.

As part of its efforts to evolve from simply an auto manufacturer that provides transportation to an automaker that creates an auto culture, Hyundai presented its virtual-driving Veloster game machine, as well as a 4D theater showing ‘Robocar POLI,' a 3D animation for children presented by Hyundai Motor, Roi Visual and EBS.

2011 Seoul Auto Show: Kia Naimo electric concept【Video】

The Kia Naimo Electric Concept car has just been unveiled at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show in Korea.

The Naimo's name is derived from the Korean word 'Ne-mo' which means 'square shape'. And this is one concept which isn't running away from its boxy design. It features no B-pillar and rear-hinged doors.

Kia would not confirm any production plans for the car, saying in a statement that it "explores the practicalities of introducing a zero-emissions, five-door, four-seater city car into a future niche market."

With a 150kph (93.2mph) top speed, four-seat accommodation, and a high air pressure windscreen wiper system, with external rear view mirrors replaced by cameras, there is plenty of gadgetry to help reduce aerodynamic drag and improve performance.

Along with the 125 mile range (which would put the car ahead of the 100 mile per charge Nissan LEAF), Kia says the Naimo can be recharged to 80 per cent of its capacity within 25 minutes using a 50kW quick charge, with a full-charge taking five and a half hours using a conventional outlet.

A twin-pack 27 kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery, located under the boot floor, gives the vehicle a driving range of 200 km on a single charge. To enhance range, the showcar is fitted with special low-drag 20-inch alloy wheels.

Autos Deportivos

Autos Deportivos

GT500

GT500

2011 Subaru Legacy Reviews

The 2011 Subaru Legacy is available in 3 different engine choices. The 2.5 liter four cylinder offers 170 horsepower with 170 foot pounds of torque. All Legacy models, regardless of engine size, feature all wheel drive to make handling smoother. A 6 speed manual or automatic transmission is available, which allows drivers to pick their preference of driving experience.
You will find most safety features standard regardless of package options, which really says something for Subaru. The 2011 Subaru Legacy offers only one optional safety feature and that is the parking assist.

The Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Mazda6 all offer very similar safety features, options, and performance. The Camry’s base model offers 169 horsepower, while the Accord and Mazda6 offer 180 and 170 respectively.

Choices abound with the Legacy, which comes in many trim levels and offers three engine types and three transmissions.

The 2.5 GT Premium model is gone, leaving the 2.5 GT Limited as the lone turbocharged model. Exterior features include:
Standard 16-inch wheels
Available 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels
Functional hood scoop on 2.5 GT
Projector beam headlights
Interior features include:
Standard keyless entry
Standard 60/40-split folding rear seats
Available Bluetooth audio streaming capability
Available dual-zone climate control

Under the Hood
Three engines — a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a turbocharged 2.5-liter and a 3.6-liter six-cylinder — make 170 horsepower, 265 hp and 256 hp, respectively.
170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder
265-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder
256-hp, 3.6-liter six-cylinder
Six-speed manual transmission
Five-speed automatic (3.6-liter six-cylinder)
Standard all-wheel drive

Reviews of the 2011 Subaru Legacy are generally mixed. Like all Subarus, the Legacy has standard all-wheel-drive, a unique feature that helps provide added safety and security. In 2.5i Legacy models, reviewers note slow acceleration, though the more powerful 2.5GT or 3.6R models solve this problem.

Consumers checking out the 2011 Subaru Legacy should be sure to check out other affordable midsize cars with all-wheel-drive options. The Suzuki Kizashi is also available with an all-wheel drive option.

For 2011 the Legacy 2.5GT is only available in Limited trim. New for 2011, the Legacy comes standard with folding rear-view mirrors.

TRUCKERS' SHORTAGE * India - Wanted: Three million drivers

Got a truck license but can’t find a job? India needs you

Mumbai,India -Agency France-Press/Today's Trucking -28 March 2011: -- The exploding economy that is India is facing a driver shortage. And when India says shortage, it really means shortage... "We face a 40-percent shortfall, which means we need three million more drivers," said R.K. Gulati, spokesman for the All India Motor Transport Congress, a truckers’ lobby group... According to a report, many fleets have up to 15 percent of their fleets sitting because they can’t get anybody to drive... Bal Malkit Singh, a city transporter and former head of the Bombay Goods Transport Association operates over 300 trucks. He estimates 10 percent of them are at a standstill because he can’t get drivers... One of the biggest problems is that the government requiring a minimum grade 10 education (or high school to the age of 15) to carry hazardous goods... The AFP reports that people with those qualifications are more willing to work in offices than behind the wheel of a truck... India's two-million-mile road network, the world's second largest after the United States, accounts for nearly 70 percent of the country's frtruckers' sheight movement... (Image from Top News: Oil transport companies join Indian truckers' strike)

Investigation * Canada - Bribery attempts alleged over truck safety

Canadian DOT inspector: 'The guy offered me $1,000 cash right now to forget the situation and let him continue on his way'

Winnipeg,MAN,CAN -CBC News -Mar 28, 2011: -- Some truckers and the companies they work for are willing to pay a lot of money to make safety inspectors look the other way, a CBC investigation has discovered... The FBI alleges in court documents that James Wood, the supervisor of the Buffalo field office of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration took money from the Canadian consultant in exchange for delaying a safety audit of a trucking company... Wood allegedly took thousands over a period of two years in bribes, according to the FBI, who engaged in a covert operation that led to charges in the case. He has pleaded not guilty... U.S. Department of Justice spokeswoman Trini Ross says the allegations against Wood are serious... U.S. prosecutors have refused to identify the companies the consultant represented. If convicted, Wood, 44, faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 or both... But a Canadian inspector who works for a provincial department of transportation says attempted bribery is nothing out of the ordinary. He agreed to speak with CBC News on the condition of anonymity... (Photo from CBC: A semi-trailer unit is shrouded in blowing snow just outside Winnipeg on Monday)

Spotlight On... The Aphid

The Aphid is a model from a different game system called Robogear that I use in my Adeptus Mechanicus army.

Robogear offers some fairly whacky vehicles that are clip together, fast to make and kind of interesting – especially if you convert them from the originally intended design as I did with this Thunderfire Battery.

Because I didn't want to use the pilot that came with it, I used toilet paper soaked with glue to make a curving cocpit.

For its rules I used the old Vehicle Design Rules again to design a medium-heavy walker. It’s quite nice in the game but needs to be used carefully to avoid being destroyed prematurely as its weapons are fairly short-ranged.

Aphid	BS	Front	Side	Rear
	3	12	12	10

Points: 129

Vehicle Type: Walker

Crew: Skitarii

Weapons: Twin-linked Assault Cannon, Twin-linked Bolters

* TRUCKMAKERS NEWS EVENT * USA - Live from Louisville, KY's

* The Mid-America Trucking Show

* Volvo introduces powertrain enhancements, improved aerodynamics

(Courtesy VTNA: Volvo Trucks’ VN model is now available with new aerodynamic components to improve fuel efficiency)
Louisville,KY,USA -The Trucker News Services -31 March 2011:  --  Volvo Trucks in North America introduced powertrain enhancements and advanced aerodynamics for its VN highway series aimed at delivering an 8 percent improvement in fuel efficiency over EPA 2007 engines with additional gains possible through the use of new fleet management and driver development tools...  The company said it would also introduce new interior features designed to increase comfort and productivity, giving customers additional tools for reducing costs and attracting and retaining drivers...

* MaxxForce 15 completes Navistar engine line-up

(Photo from The Trucker, by LYNDON FINNEY: Navistar's Jim Hebe Wednesday at MATS)

Louisville,KY,USA -The Trucker News Services -30 March 2011: -- The MaxxForce 15 is built on a proven block and crankshaft — an adaptation of the Caterpillar big bore power plant — combined with the fuel and air systems of the MaxxForce Advanced EGR system... At a press event at this week’s Mid-America Trucking Show here, Navistar Inc. announced the production availability of its MaxxForce 15, billed as the final piece in “the broadest, most comprehensive line-up” of integrated truck-engine offerings available to North American commercial truck customers...

* Peterbilt standardizes air disc brakes on all Peterbilt models

(Courtesy PETERBILT MOTORS CO.: The Bendix ABD22X is the standard for air disc brakes on Peterbilt's Class 8 models)

Louisville,KY,USA -The Trucker -30/2011:  --  Peterbilt Motors Co. said Wednesday air disc brakes would become standard on all of the company’s Class 8 models...  The announcement came during a news conference at the Mid-America Trucking Show that opens here Thursday...  Air disc brakes offer the shortest stopping distances in the market today and provide a compact design, minimizing weight, reducing maintenance and improving both vehicle and operator efficiency, according to Bill Jackson, PACCAR vice president and Peterbilt general manager...  Peterbilt is the first to go standard with air disc brakes across its full line of Class 8 vehicles, he said...

* Kenworth reveals regional haul version of T660

(Courtesy KENWORTH TRUCK CO.: The new T660 configuration removes the standard under-cab chassis fairing and replaces it with a cab-mounted extension of the hood fender)

Louisville,KY,USA -The Trucker -30 March 2011: -- Kenworth Truck Co. announced a new Kenworth T660 regional hauler configuration with shorter wheelbases, tighter chassis packaging, enhanced maneuverability and weight savings...  “It’s much more than regional haul truck,” Kenworth Chief Engineer Preston Feight told reporters during a news conference Wednesday at the Mid-America Trucking Show here...  This is all accomplished while maintaining the same fuel tank capacity as a T660 with forward chassis fairings, he said...

* Detroit Diesel says engine sales exceeded expectations

Louisville,KY,USA -Fleet Owner -Mar 31, 2011: -- Detroit Diesel officials announced they sold more than 25,000 engines featuring BlueTec emissions technology in 2010, exceeding the company’s expectations for the 2010 EPA emissions-compliant engines... The company said its BlueTec-equipped DD13, DD15 and DD16 engines have logged more than 150 million miles with fleets averaging a 5% or greater fuel economy improvement over 2007 models, creating a $2,700/truck savings in fuel on average...