First Responders at the New York International Auto Show

Ever go to the New York Auto Show and wonder where all those police cars on the lower level come from? They come from the New York City Police Museum.

Incorporated in 1998, The New York City Police Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the New York City Police Department, the world’s largest and most famous police service. Every year, they have a spectacular display of the police cars of New York City, from the 1930s to present day.

Vehicles on display included a:

1958 Ford Custom 300 with factory 292i V8 (4.8L) and 3 speed automatic. Emergency equipment includes a Federal signal Model 17 light, Federal Signal Model 28 siren, Stewart Warner Police Special Speedometer and Motorola Twin V Police Radio.

1974 Plymouth Satellite Custom with factory 318i V8 (5.2L) and 3 speed automatic. The NYPD switched from the larger Plymouth Fury to the smaller Plymouth Satellite due to the gasoline crisis. Each car was $3,767. Precinct numbers were added to the sides of the cars in 1978. Includes a Signal Stat #9555 light bar, Signal Stat VI Siren & Control Center, Stewart Warner Police Special speedometer and Motorola T-Power Radio

1989 Chevrolet Caprice 9C1 Police Package with Federal Signal Aerodynamic 24H lighter and Federal Signal PA-300 radio. This car is built in tribute to P.O. Edward Byrne.

2016 Smart Car, with 89 horsepower and CVT transmission. NYPD installed options include NYPD specialized LED lighting and message board with 72 different programmed messages and a VIT fuel management system.

2016 Ford NGPI Utility, comes with 304 horsepower and al-wheel-drive with police tuned suspension, heavy duty wheels and brakes, NYPD specialized LED lighting, Rumbler siren, front push bumper, ballistic door and window panels, computer tablet with keyboard and printer, priority start (battery rundown protection), skid plate, AVL (automatic vehicle locator). It also has a park kill module, which turns the sirens off when the vehicle is placed in park, and a run on module, which allows the vehicle to run when the ignition key is removed but turns the car off when the brake is pressed so the car can’t be stolen.

1961 Plymouth Savoy from “Car 54, Where are You?”, with factory 318i V8 (5.2L) and 3 speed automatic, and Motorola Twin V radio, Stewart Warner Police Speedometer, Federal Signal Model 28 Siren and Federal Signal Model 17 light. Each car cost $2,694 in 1961.

2016 Ford NGPI Utility

1961 Plymouth Savoy from “Car 54, Where are You?”

2016 Ford NGPI Utility

1974 Plymouth Satellite Custom

2016 Smart Car

1958 Ford Custom 300

1989 Chevrolet Caprice 9C1 Police Package

1961 Plymouth Savoy from “Car 54, Where are You?”

1974 Plymouth Satellite Custom

Day two from 2016 New York international auto show

Hey Autocrats! Today is the second Press Day at the New York International Auto Show. Continue to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and right here for live coverage!

2016 New York International Auto Show Press Day!

Today is the day! 2016 New York International Auto Show Press Day has arrived. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and right here for live coverage, beginning today at 5PM.

50th Annual Easter Jeep Safari, Jeep honors CJ-5 and others

The 2016 Easter Jeep Safari is already underway in Moab, Utah for their 50th year running. It kicked off Saturday, March 19th and is running straight through to Sunday, March 27th. The Safari is an event starting in Moab, using your own vehicle on 40 different trails ranging in difficulty for a 9-day long adventure! Every year, Jeep shows off new concepts at this event which utilize both production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts. The Safari is hosted by the Red Rock 4-Wheelers Inc., which is one of the the local four wheel drive clubs of Moab.

Jeep-Shortcut-concept-101-876x535

For almost 30 years, the CJ-5 was in production, making it the longest-living Wrangler model to be produced. It’s been said throughout the years that the CJ-5 was one of the hardest vehicles to kill off. The CJ-5 went through years and years of changes and upgrades since it was produced for so long. Some of the most noticeable changes were gas tank relocation, frame length and width and various transmissions and engine size upgrades. The CJ-5 sure is an iconic Wrangler model, which is what makes this 2016 Shortcut Concept that much more special.

Jeep-Shortcut-concept-111-876x535

The 2016 Shortcut Concept is inspired by the classic CJ-5 to handle tight, winding trails. It is overall a tad more than 2 feet shorter, while the wheelbase remains the same. The bumpers were also pushed in a small amount and the rear spare tire was taken off – bringing the Shortcut closer in size to the older CJ-5. The Shortcut features no doors and roof as well as a restyled grille, hood and tailgate. The Shortcut also shows off the classic round side-view mirrors. Another eye catcher of course are the matching body color 17-inch rims that are fitted into 35-inch tires. As for the engine specs, the Shortcut will be running the same 3.6-liter V6 and five-speed automatic from the current Wrangler.

Jeep is extremely excited this year for the Easter Jeep Safari. Mike Manley, the head of Jeep for FCA Global said, “Every year, the Jeep team looks forward to pushing the limits with new, exciting, and capable concept vehicles for our most loyal enthusiasts at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, where we receive a tremendous amount of valuable feedback.” I think we can all agree that this year’s concepts are on point. Manley continued, “This year is extra special, as together with our biggest fans, we celebrate Jeep’s 75th anniversary, as well as the 50th running of the Jeep Safari”.

Jeep Crew Chief 715

The Crew Chief is a salute to legendary Jeep military service vehicles

Jeep Renegade Commander

The Jeep Renegade Commander is built to blaze a trail deep into the secluded wilderness.

Jeep Comanche

The Jeep Comanche is designed to be off-road ready with practical utility.

Jeep FC 150

The Jeep FC 150 is a heritage cab-over design, rich in history and capable of tackling any terrain.

Jeep Trailcat

The Jeep Trailcat is a Hellcat-powered off-roader, capable of both crawling and high-speed runs.

Jeep Trailstorm

The Jeep Trailstorm has added offroad capability with a 2-inch lift kit, 37-inch tires and Dana 44 axles.
To view more photos of the Jeep concepts, check out our album on Facebook.

Photography by Michael Simari and Jeep

Serial One: The First Honda in the US

In 1969, Honda debuted the N600, the first Honda car that was imported to the US. Designed to combat bad fuel economy and high emissions, the N600 was roughly three feet shorter and half the weight of the average American car at the time.

Mechanic and restorer Tim Mings is the only full-time Honda N600 mechanic in the world – having worked on over 1,000 throughout the past 20 years. From the first 50 produced (serial #1 through 50), only 3 survived. After sitting under five decades of dust and dirt, Tim recently found this N600, purchasing it sight unseen, unaware of its’ pedigree. Now, it’s Tim’s mission to restore Serial One, the very first N600 that rolled off the line. Mings says it’s “humbling that I get to be the guy that does it. I’m the first person to take it apart since it was put together in 1967”. Once the restoration is complete, it will be going to the Honda Museum.

During the 12- to 18-month rebuild, Honda will be documenting the restoration of this special car at SerialOne.com – follow along, both with Honda and us, as we keep a close eye on the progress!

Images from: Honda Motor Co.

Ford opens doors for law enforcement

Ford has always been a staple in law enforcement vehicle history – going all the way back to 1919 when departments used Model T police trucks. Then, came the infamous Crown Victoria era in the early 90s and late 2000s. Now, we have the new Explorers and Tauruses we see most departments using on the roads today.

Ford is taking their dedication to law enforcement one step further, and will now be offering doors that protect against armor-piercing bullets. Since 2008, they’ve offered factory-installed ballistic panels on their police car doors, but they only protect against handgun fire and non-armor piercing bullets. Only about 5 to 10 percent of police vehicles sold by Ford have the optional ballistic protection, which costs about $1,500 per door.

In this photo provided by Ford Motor Company, a Michigan State Police officer shoots at the doors of a Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicle during ballistic testing of doors against small arm fire at the Livingston Conservation and Sports Association in Brighton, Mich.

In this photo provided by Ford Motor Company, a Michigan State Police officer and a Ford engineer look at damage to a door of a Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicle during ballistic testing of doors against small arm fire at the Barry County Conservation Club in Hastings, Mich.

This photo provided by Ford Motor Company shows entry holes through the outer skin of the door panel of a Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicle during ballistic testing of doors against small arm fire at the Barry County Conservation Club in Hastings, Mich.

In this photo provided by Ford Motor Company, different types of ammunition used in testing are displayed, foreground, as a Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicle sits parked in the background during ballistic testing of doors against small arm fire at the Livingston Conservation and Sports Association in Brighton, Mich.

Controlling 60 percent of the US police vehicle market in 2015, Ford will be the first in the US to meet the Justice Department’s highest standard for body armor, which is the equivalent of a bulky SWAT team vest.

The ballistic panels, which cover the majority of the door, have two layers. The first layer is made from ballistic-grade ceramic tile, which disperses the energy and starts to break the bullet into pieces on impact. The inner layer is made from aramid fiber, which is the same material used for Kevlar, and catches the shrapnel from the bullet.

Bill Johnson, executive director of the National Association of Police Organizations said that “any kind of protection that can be added into the vehicles that officers are driving in is a great idea”, since officers are frequently targeted when they are in their patrol cars.

Unavailable to the public, the doors are destroyed when police cars are scrapped so they don’t wind up in the bad guys’ hands.

Engineering the doors proved to be a challenge since the added weight of the ballistic protection had to be supported by the hinges of the door, though they made it happen. Ford will continue to offer both non-armor piercing and armor-piercing protection doors for departments with different needs. Pricing for upgraded protection has not been announced.

Photo Credit: Ford

Nissan Teases the 2017 GT-R

All systems are go! Nissan just recently released a teaser photo for the 2017 Nissan GT-R, which is set to make its debut at the New York International Auto Show.

Nissan. New York. 2016.

In the photo, the 2017 GT-R taillights appear to be quite similar to the current model, which only leaves us more in a great deal of suspense as to what’s changed. One thing is for sure — Nissan won’t disappoint. Nissan has not released any further information regarding the 2017 GT-R other than it will debut this year at the New York International Auto Show.

The 2016 GT-R comes standard with a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 which cranks out 545 horsepower AND only comes in all-wheel drive, to boot! For those that want a little something extra, Nissan offers the GT-R Nismo which boosts power 55hp, bringing that up to 600. With power like that at a fraction of the price of a supercar, who wouldn’t want to give the GT-R a chance?

The GT-R’s competitors include the Porsche 911 Turbo and Chevrolet Corvette Z06, which are some solid models to be in competition with.

The Autocracy will be in full force covering the Auto Show and we’ll be posting live to Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Be sure to keep checking back for Auto Show coverage, as well as a first look at the 2017 Nissan GT-R.

No Porsche for You!

It’s no secret Jerry Seinfeld is a car guy – but did you know that he’s a major Porsche fan? According to Complex Magazine, Seinfeld owns over 45 of the brand’s most sought after models. Car collectors seized the opportunity of a lifetime, taking up the chance to own some of the comedy legend’s beloved Porsches that he recently unloaded — for over $22,000,000.

Considering the “cheapest” vehicle that sold was a 1964 Volkswagen Bus for $99,000 (and the most expensive car from his collection sold for over $5 million!), you know these vehicles came from a very well maintained and well-cared-for collection from someone who truly loves his Porsches (and Volkswagen’s).

Check out some of the cars that hit the auction block – the only one that didn’t sell was his 2000 Porsche Carrera GT prototype. We can only imagine what else he has in his garage.

1955 Porsche 550 Spyder — $5,335,000
1957 Porsche 356A Speedster — $682,000
1958 Porsche 356A 1500 GS/GT Carrera Speedster — $1,540,000
1958 Porsche 597 Jagdwagen — $330,000
1959 Porsche 718RSK — $2,860,000
1963 Porsche 356B 2000 GS Carrera 2 Coupe — $825,000
1966 Porsche 911 — $275,000
1973 Porsche 917/30 Can-Am Spyder — $3,000,000
1974 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 IROC RSR — $2,310,000
1989 Porsche 911 Speedster — $363,000
1990 Porsche 962C — $1,650,000
1994 Porsche 964 Turbo 3.6 Turbo S Flachbau — $1,017,500
1997 Porsche 993 3.8 Cup RSR — $935,000
2011 Porsche 997 Speedster — $440,000
2012 Porsche 997 GT3 Cup 4.0 “Brumos Commemorative Edition” — $462,000
1960 Volkswagen Beetle — $121,000
1964 Volkswagen Camper — $99,000

Photos from Gooding & Company Auction House.

As Technology Advances, Volvo Stays On Pace.

We all remember the days when cars had only a little metal key. Eventually, laser cut keys were made; fast forward a few years and cars with push button start using a key fob were the next big thing. The push button start feature comes with many pros, the major one being never having to take your key out of your pocket to open the doors and start the car. But, what if you’re getting tired of carrying around keys in your pocket?

Volvo has the answer, but there is still one major question to ask. What is the one thing you can almost guarantee that every person walking down the street has, long before they even get their learners permit?

Answer: a smartphone.

Volvo has set off a trial run on manufacturing keyless cars using three things that almost everyone use today: bluetooth, a smartphone and an app! With these simple features, Volvo is looking to perfect the next big thing in the automotive industry. Just so you are not deterred from purchasing a Volvo if you are not too technologically inclined, Volvo plans to still offer physical keys for their customers.

The Bluetooth enabled app will give the cars owner a “digital key” that they will be able to share with other people that also use the app, like family members who will also use the car. Not only will it be useful for families that share a car, but it can also be utilized for rental car companies that will be able to send a digital key to the app. Volvo’s app will also able to control door locks and engine starting/stopping.

Having an app on a phone to control your car does cause concern for battery life for the phone but Martin Rosenqvist, New Car Director of Special Products at Volvo Cars says, “Our app has marginal effect on battery life”. The concern for a phone breaking or being misplaced is also bothersome as to how that gets resolved. Rosenqvist is also quoted saying, “If you lose your car key you need to go to the Volvo dealer, if you lose your phone you have to get a new phone. You can acquire a new app on a new phone”.

If this new technology will become a production reality, there is only one way to find out. Stayed tuned with us as we plan on keeping you guys updated with Volvo’s trial of a keyless car.

Video from: The Volvo Group – Volvo Cars

The Autocracy’s Top 10 Car Films

Who doesn’t love a good car movie? With enough car chases, crashes and explosions to get your adrenaline pumping, there’s nothing better than plopping down on the couch after work or on a weekend and getting in your “car movie” fix. Here’s a few of our favorite films – leave us a comment below and tell us what your favorite car movie is!

Greg’s Picks:

Smokey and the Bandit (1977) – The Bandit is hired on to run a tractor trailer full of beer over county lines in hot pursuit by a pesky sheriff. Starring Burt Reynolds, Jackie Gleason, Jerry Reed, Sally Field and Mike Henry.

Fast Five (2011) – Dominic Toretto and his crew of street racers plan a massive heist to buy their freedom while in the sights of a powerful Brazilian drug lord and a dangerous federal agent. Starring Paul Walker, Vin Diesel and Dwayne Johnson.

Blues Brothers (1980) – Jake Blues, just out from prison, puts together his old band to save the Catholic home where he and brother Elwood were raised. Starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.

Used Cars (1980) – When the owner of a struggling used car lot is killed, it’s up to the lot’s hot-shot salesman to save the property from falling into the hands of the owner’s ruthless brother and used-car rival. Starring Kurt Russell, Jack Warden and Al Lewis.

Transporter (2002) – Frank is hired to “transport” packages for unknown clients and has made a very good living doing so. But when asked to move a package that begins moving, complications arise. Starring Jason Statham, Matt Schulze, Qi Shu and François Berléand.

Dave’s Picks:

The Fast and the Furious (2001) – Los Angeles police officer Brian O’Connor must decide where his loyalties really lie when he becomes enamored with the street racing world he has been sent undercover to destroy. Starring Paul Walker, Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez and Jordana Brewster.

Dukes of Hazzard (2005) – Cousins Bo and Luke Duke, with a little help from their cousin Daisy and Uncle Jesse, egg on the authorities of Hazzard County, Boss Hogg and Sheriff Coltrane. Starring Johnny Knoxville, Seann William Scott, Jessica Simpson, Burt Reynolds and Willie Nelson.

Bad Boys (1995) – Two hip detectives protect a murder witness while investigating a case of stolen heroin. Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence.

Starsky and Hutch (2004) – Two streetwise cops bust criminals in their red-and-white Ford Torino with the help of police snitch called Huggy Bear. Starring Owen Wilson, Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn and Snoop Dogg.

Gran Torino (2008) – Disgruntled Korean War veteran Walt Kowalski sets out to reform his neighbor, a Hmong teenager who tried to steal Kowalski’s prized possession: a 1972 Gran Torino. Starring Clint Eastwood.

Honorable Mentions:

My Cousin Vinny (1992) – Not a true car movie in the sense of the genre, although the defense’s case comes to a close thanks to evidence found in a photo of a tire mark. Vincent Laguardia Gambini’s 1962 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible also does play a small role in the film, a la “mud in the tires” and the scene where he gets stuck in the mud and drops his freshly dry-cleaned suit.

Tommy Boy (1995) – How can you not like David Spade’s 1967 Plymouth Belvedere GTX in the film? Though, any true car guy has probably shed a tear or two after what happens to his car.