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Ford bringing C-Max Solar Energi Concept to CES

Solar energy might not be enough to power a usable electric vehicle on its own, but that doesn't mean it can't lend a helping hand. And that's what Ford has in store for the Consumer Electronics Show opening next week in Las Vegas.
Ford has essentially taken its C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid and fitted it with the latest in solar panel technology developed by SunPower, acting like a magnifying glass to capture as much of the sun's energy as possible. So you get the benefit of an electric vehicle, with the range assurance of a hybrid, without needing to draw from the grid.
Ford estimates that a day of charging in the sunshine will give the C-Max Solar Energi concept the same full charge as the production PHEV, with a total range of 620 miles - 21 of which can be run on electric power alone. Otherwise the vehicle - which remains a concept for the time being - is identical to the existing C-Max Energi. The top-selling model in Ford's growing hybrid and electric vehicle portfolio helps put Ford just behind Toyota among the top seller of hybrids in America. Scope out the images in the gallery above and the video clip and press release below for a closer look.

2015 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600 fills an F-150 Raptor-sized void

Ford is rumored to possibly debut a new F-150 Raptor at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show in January, but whether that's the case or not, Hennessey Performance is ready to fill the muscle truck niche now with its latest VelociRaptor 600 Supercharged based on the 2015 F-150. The fantastically named VelociRaptor package has been available on the regular Raptor for the past few years, taking power up to 600 horsepower or more, depending on what the buyer desired. With the latest one, the performance truck is now based on the aluminum-bodied F-150, specifically the FX4 Super Crew model with the 5.0-liter V8. "Having Ford's world-class new truck design, with a weight savings of nearly 700 pounds, our VelociRaptor 600 Supercharged will have an even greater level of performance and driving excitement," said founder John Hennessey in the company's release. The heart of VelociRaptor is the Roots-type supercharger running at 8 psi on the V8. With help from upgraded fuel injectors, a proprietary engine management system and stainless steel exhaust, it boosts grunt from a stock 385 horsepower to over 600 hp. To make sure that power gets to the road, the package also includes 33-inch BFGoodrich mounted on 17-inch Hennessey wheels. For buyers in need of more, the company offers optional parts including an off-road coilover suspension, different front and rear bumpers, a winch, LED light bar and Brembo brakes. Speaking to Autoblog, Hennessey said he feels confident that the latest VelociRaptor could do high-four-second sprints to 60 miles per hour, compared to the outgoing model in the low-five-second range. Prices for the VelociRaptor start at $73,500, which includes the donor F-150, and orders are open now. Actual deliveries should start by March at the latest, according to Hennessey. The company also plans to offer a similar package for EcoBoost F-150s later. Scroll down to read the full announcement about this muscle truck. Introducing the 2015 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600 Supercharged Texas tuner adds power and improved off-road capabilities to Ford's all-new aluminum bodied pick-up trucks December 16, 2014-For immediate release Sealy, Texas-For the past five years, Ford F-150 truck enthusiasts have had the special opportunity to own the SVT Raptor. With 411 hp and baja pre-runner capabilities, the Ford Raptor was one of the most capable 4x4's ever built. Sadly, Ford Raptor production has ended, leaving a void in the market for 2015.

Last 2014 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible nets $500k for charity at Barrett-Jackson [w/video]

The last 2014 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible was sold on Saturday at a Barrett-Jackson auction in Reno, Nevada, for $500,000. Ford donated the Mustang to be auctioned for charity, and all of the money is going to the Brain Injury Association of America.
Parnelli Jones, winner of the 1963 Indianapolis 500, was there on behalf of the BIAA with his son Page, who suffered a brain injury in a sprint car crash in 1994. The bidding increased quickly, reaching $500k in no time, spreading a bit more hope to people who live with brain injuries.
The winning bidder will be able to choose the GT500's exterior, interior and stripe colors, and is scheduled to receive the car, signed by Parnelli Jones in appreciation for the donation, by the end of 2013. Watch the video below to see the auction-block action.