Auto News 5

Although it isn't the world's first electric Jeep (DJ-5e, anyone?), the 2010 Jeep Wrangler EV, given a new coat of paint for the 2009 Detroit auto show, is a bit more advanced.

It's no secret that we like the Jaguar XF at Automobile Magazine. The keys to our XF Supercharged Four-Seasons test car are rarely sitting around and we keep piling on the miles. We even named the newest Jaguar sedan a 2009 All-Star. But, like you, we've seen the spy photos and knew the English brand had something hotter coming. That hotter something is the XFR, released here at the Detroit show.

The rumored Cadillac E-Flex concept was confirmed this morning at General Motor's 2009 Detroit Auto Show press conference. The concept's official name will be the Cadillac Converj and, as anticipated, it is based on the Chevy Volt platform.

Sharing the show floor in Detroit with the new Jaguar XFR is the updated XKR. Available as either a coupe or a convertible, the new 510-hp all-aluminum Jaguar rips from 0-60 mph in an impressive 4.6-seconds (manufacture supplied data for the coupe). The engine in the updated XKR is the same direct-injection, supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 seen in the XFR. The sole transmission choice is a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters and based on our past experience with this setup, you won't miss a manual or dual-clutch option. There is also a new electronically controlled limited-slip differential and adaptive dampening, both fitted as standard. Click the above link to the XFR if you'd like more info on the engine, differential, and dampers.

Of the three electric-powered prototypes unveiled by Chrysler earlier this year, pundits buzzed the most about the 2010 Chrysler Town & Country EV. We understand their logic - though nowhere as sexy as the Lotus-based Dodge coupe (which was revamped for the 2009 Detroit auto show), it's the most practical application of Chrysler's hybrid technology we've seen to date.

If you recall Chrysler's PR coup from this past summer, you'll likely remember the Dodge EV - a two-seat electric sports car that was reportedly a demonstration of Chrysler's forthcoming electric technology. You'll then realize the 2010 Dodge Circuit, unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, is essentially the same car.