Category Archives: Celebrity Auto News

Justin Bieber’s Fisker Karma Wrecked by Lil Twist

Pop sensation Justin Bieber is known for his catchy songs and ability to make girls swoon, but his fancy cars and motorcycles are also well known, and the Canadian entertainer's Fisker Karma recently made headlines. The car was wrecked, not by Bieber, but by his close friend Lil Twist.

The young rapper reportedly crashed the chromed-out exotic car, worth $100,000, on Tuesday night and then fled the scene, according to TMZ.com. Lil Twist, 20, drove the car into the protective cement poles outside of a liquor store in San Fernando Valley, California. Shortly after the accident, witnesses told the source a BMW pulled up and waited while the hip hop star loaded broken pieces of the Fisker Karma into the trunk, and then it took off with Lil Twist in tow.

Daily Mail reports this is not the first time Lil Twist has had a brush with danger behind the wheel of one of Bieber's vehicles. Back in December, the Texas-born rapper was driving the Bieb's white Ferrari 458 when he was stopped by police. The story made headlines across the globe, as a member of the paparazzi was struck and killed by another vehicle while photographing the incident.

As of yet, it remains unclear whether Lil Twist will be pursued by the law for his actions following the Fisker Karma crash. According to TMZ, he did not make any attempt to speak with the property owner before fleeing the scene, which is a crime in California. The damage to the Fisker Karma is unknown as well.

Regardless of how it happened, this accident serves as a good reminder for drivers across the country to take caution behind the wheel. Whether they're driving flashy, expensive rides or sitting behind the wheel of more modest used cars, motorists should drive safely to reduce the risk of a crash.

Safety is an important factor when buying a vehicle as well, and every model on the New Jersey State Auto Auction lot comes with a CARFAX certification, giving drivers added assurance that they'll be getting a reliable ride.

More than 100 Cars Destroyed in Filming of New Die Hard Movie

While many people may be buying chocolates and flowers today, plenty others are heading to the theaters to see the latest edition in the Die Hard movie franchise. “A Good Day to Die Hard” premieres on the holiday of romance, because nothing says love like action, violence and car crashes.

The fifth installment of the action saga, featuring New York police officer John McClane​, marked the 25th anniversary of the original “Die Hard” that has become a legendary tome in the action movie genre, and the action has not slowed down any. The fourth film, “Die Hard with a Vengeance,” involved McClane driving a car off a ramp into a helicopter to create a Michael-Bay style explosion, but the fifth movie keeps things a bit more realistic with traditional action movie elements like car chases and shoot-outs.

According to USA Today, 132 vehicles were completely wrecked in the making of the latest Bruce Willis flick. Not only were these cars blown apart, smashed, demolished and otherwise wrecked for the sake of the film, but they were all used to shoot one car chase scene.

“There were 132 (cars) that could never be used again,” director John Moore told the news source. “Another 518 required a lot of work.”

Those planning to see the film will get to see a slew of vehicles get thoroughly trashed, including a Mercedes G Class SUV. 

While car crashes in movies may be fun and exciting, in real life they can be quite problematic. Even if (hopefully) no one is injured, drivers may be faced with a number of repairs to get their vehicles back on the road. In some cases cars may be irreparable, and those in need of replacement vehicles can head to NJ State Auto Auction, which carries a wide selection of affordable used cars.

Chris Brown Crashes Porsche, Blames Paparazzi

Hip-hop performer Chris Brown recently made headlines, not for his musical career or his relationship with singer Rihanna, but instead for getting into a car accident. The 23-year-old entertainer crashed his Porsche against a wall in Beverly Hills, California over the weekend, according to Reuters. Brown, unharmed, told police he was trying to get away from aggressive paparazzi on Saturday afternoon when he lost control of his sports car.

The accident occurred the day before the Grammy Awards, and the news source indicates the crash did not seem to faze the performer, who showed up to the red carpet with a broad grin on his face.

“Little bit of bumps. I’m all good though,” Brown told E! News’s Ryan Seacrest on the red carpet. He explained that even though his Porsche was totaled, he is planning to get another one. “Insurance is good.”

Brown’s rep told E! News Online that the celebrity was being “ruthlessly pursued by paparazzi,” who cornered him in an alley. The Associated Press reports police will be investigating the incident fully. As of yet, the paparazzi have not been identified.

While most drivers are likely not going to have to worry about being stalked by cameramen, they still need to be aware of other risks and dangers while behind the wheel. Some accidents can be easily remedied with a bit of auto body work. In these cases, the experts at New Jersey State Auto Auction can help get a car back in working order. When a vehicle is totaled, it will be time to purchase a replacement, and NJ Auto Auction has plenty of options. Whether drivers are looking to get behind the wheel of a celebrity-worthy sports car or they prefer something a bit more modest, NJ Auto has it all.

Batmobile Stands Out at Barrett-Jackson

Last weekend, The Barrett-Jackson auction house held its first auction of the year, and there were plenty of unique automobiles for sale, including the Batmobile. The vehicle brought in an impressive $4.2 million, making up a small portion of the $223.8 million that the auction house raised over the weekend, according to AOL Autos.

There have been many different versions of the Batmobile over the years, including the flame-throwing version created by Tim Burton in the 1990s, but the original vehicle featured in the 1960s “Batman” TV show may be even more coveted by fans of the Dark Knight. While Burton’s model barely even qualified as a car, the ‘60s version was much closer to being a street-legal design. Auto customizer George Barris started the transformation with a 1955 Lincoln” target=”_self”>Lincoln Futura concept car, and then installed a clear bubble over the passenger cab and added tons of fun crime-fighting features to create the legendary ride. The vehicle, which remained in Barris’ possession until the auction, was equipped with lasers, a “Batphone,” smoke screen capabilities and other devices to stop criminals in their tracks.

There were plenty of other models that fetched prices in the millions at the annual Scottsdale, Arizona, sale. Motor Authority reports the first production 2014 Corvette Stingray sold for $1.1 million, for example. Other vehicles failed to do as well as expected – George W. Bush’s Ford F-150 only brought in $300,000 and a 1958 Corvette owned by the CEO of General Motors came up short with a winning bid of $270,000. 

Drivers looking to experience the thrill of the auction without shelling out hundreds of thousands of dollars can bid on used cars at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has four football fields of models to choose from, and every vehicle on the lot is CARFAX certified.

 

 

Actress Kaley Cuoco to Star in Toyota’s Super Bowl Commercial

The NFL headed into the postseason last weekend, and as the playoffs get underway, many are already looking forward to Super Bowl XLVII – especially the commercials. Every year, a large portion of the ad space is bought up by automotive companies, and Toyota recently announced its ad will feature actress Kaley Cuoco. The "Big Bang Theory" star will also be sharing her screen time during the big game with one lucky fan.

Toyota is hosting a "Get In The Big Game" contest in which people who love football, cars and hot blonde actresses can submit their photos on social media sites Instagram and Twitter and include the phrase "(hashtag)wishgranted." Toyota will choose one photo to include in the Super Bowl commercial, which will air during the first quarter of the game.

"Not only are we pumped to have Kaley as part of our Super Bowl commercial, but we're also excited to give fans a chance to have their photo appear in a nationally televised Toyota spot during one of the biggest sporting events of the year," said Jack Hollis, vice president of Toyota Division Marketing at Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. "We look forward to sharing our commercial with the millions of viewers who tune in to watch the ultimate football showdown."

While Super Bowl commercials tend to advertise new products, Toyota lovers don't necessarily need to look to 2013 models to find vehicles that will suit their needs. The Japanese automaker has been producing quality vehicles for many years, and the Camry has been one of the best-selling cars in the country for more than 14 years. Car shoppers will have no problem finding used cars like the Camry and Avalon that are reliable, fuel-efficient and stylish. Those in the New York/New Jersey area can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction and browse the wide selection of makes and models to find their next ride.

President Bush’s F-150 Will Be Auctioned for Charity

For the right price, you can own a Ford F-150 that once belonged to former President George W. Bush. The Republican leader's truck is going up for auction in January at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona, to help raise money for the Fisher House Foundation. The 2009 Ford F-150 King Ranch 4×4 SuperCrew has been the former president's daily driver since he left office in 2009. Bush and his wife Laura have used the pickup to give tours of their Prairie Chapel Ranch in Crawford, Texas, as well as entertain guests and do work around the ranch.

"I haven't driven on a street in many, many years, but I have been able to drive this truck on my ranch," said Bush. "I want to thank all those who are supporting Fisher House. In supporting the Fisher House, you're supporting our veterans. And in supporting our veterans, you're helping America.

The Fisher House Foundation works to establish homes for veterans near major military and VA medical centers. Vets and their families can use these homes while a former soldier is receiving treatment. The organization also works to help family members of servicemen and women by sharing donated frequent flyer miles so relatives can be with their loved ones while they are in the hospital. They also provide these individuals with free hotel stays through the foundation's Hotels for Heroes program.

"The Fisher House Foundation is an outstanding organization, and we are honored to support their efforts and are thankful to former President Bush for his donation," said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. "Charitable giving is a part of Barrett-Jackson's culture and philosophy and I can't wait to see what happens once this truck crosses the auction block."

Those in the market for a truck or another vehicle have many other options than this particular pickup. New Jersey State Auto Auction carries a wide selection of makes and models for car shoppers in the New York/New Jersey area to choose from.

Mercedes-Benz presents new Popemobile to Pope Benedict XVI

While most political and religious leaders have special transportation to help them travel safely between destinations, few are as famous as the Popemobile. Mercedes-Benz, which has been designing the famed car for decades, recently presented Pope Benedict XVI with the newest model. The Popemobile has traditionally been designed to allow the leader of the Catholics to safely sit and wave to the public when he makes appearances around the world.

"It is an honor for Mercedes-Benz to be accompanying His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on his future journeys with our new Popemobile," said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "As such, we are continuing our long-standing partnership with the Vatican. For more than 80 years now, Popes have been able to rely on the quality, safety and comfort of our Mercedes-Benz vehicles."

The new Popemobile, a modified M-Class, features a larger dome than the previous model and a redesigned interior that allows for more space as well as easier entry access. The domed area not only gives the Pope more room, but wider glass panels increase visibility, and improved lighting ensures the vehicle will be effective day or night. The throne in which the Pope sits for his journey was embroidered with the Holy Father's coat of Arms, adding a special touch to the overall design of the vehicle.

Most people don't have the need for such a special car, but that doesn't mean they can't drive a vehicle that fits their personality as well as their needs and desires. Drivers in the New York, New Jersey area may be able to find their dream car on the lot at NJ Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, all of which are CARFAX certified.

Rolls Royce that Once Carried Princess Diana to Be Auctioned Off

The Rolls-Royce that bore Prince Charles the late Princess Diana on their first visit to the United States in 1985 will be going up for auction to the highest bidder in early November. The car, a Silver Wraith II, is an official vehicle of the United Kingdom's U.S. embassy, and as such is heavily armored.

"One of Jay's customers called and told Jay about the car," Volvo Auto Museum Director Brian Grams explained how his brother, Jay, first found out about the historic vehicle. "An associate of the Berman Museum of History, which valued the car at $2 million, had purchased it from Berman. We just thought it was an armor-plated Rolls Royce that had been embassy-owned. But after digging through the documents and doing some research, we found out what the car really was."

Documents show that more than $200,000 has been spent to ensure the safety of its passengers. This includes an inches-thick windshield, bulletproof side windows and seals to protect against toxic gases. The royal vehicle is beautiful as well as functional, with the original red leather interior and a brand new silver paint job.

While the car has been valued at around $2 million, the Volvo Auto Museum will be auctioning the Rolls off with no reserve. A portion of the proceeds from this sale will be donated to CHILDREN with CANCER UK, a nonprofit organization started by Princess Di that funds research of childhood cancer and helps to protect youngsters affected by disease.

While only one lucky car collector will be able to take home this royal ride, drivers who want to find a special vehicle of their own can head over to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, and every car of the lot is CARFAX certified. This may not be as hefty of a protection as bulletproof glass, but it will ensure car shoppers will stay safe when they buy a car from NJ Auto Auction.

Amanda Bynes won’t stop putting the pedal to the metal

Actress Amanda Bynes has certainly found herself behind the wheel of controversy recently. After a slew of hit and runs and other driving mistakes, the former child star was asked by a judge to stop driving.

What's more, she's been doing so with a suspended license. People Magazine reports that Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel told the actress' attorney she cannot be driving without a valid driver's license.

Bynes' license was suspended after being charged in a DUI case and two counts of hit and run. However, multiple paparazzi have spotted her continuing to make her way around California despite having her license taken away. What's more, even after having her license taken away, she tapped the bumper of a parked car the next night and then drove off.

The Los Angeles Times reports Bynes was charged in two hit and run cases on April 10 and August 4 respectively. In August, the actress rear-ended a Toyota and stopped briefly, before deciding there was no damage and left. The victim said the actress refused to provide any information and left before calling the police, but Bynes said she and the victim agreed there was not enough damage.

Bynes' troubles began on April 6 when she was arrested for a DUI. It was the start of some bizarre behavior from the actress, who hasn't really helped her public image by going on Twitter rants.

"Hey @BarackObama … I don't drink," Bynes tweeted at the president following her arrest. "Please fire the cop who arrested me. I also don't hit and run. The end."

Bynes has been seen driving her BMW around, complete with scratches and dents from her many mishaps.

Those who have similar dings in their vehicles who don't want to pay for repair may want to consider heading to New Jersey State Auto, which offers a variety of vehicles fit for anyone's needs.

Closing Ceremony at 2012 London Olympics Features British Musicians and Lots of Cars

For many, the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympics are the best part of the international event, and London's closing extravaganza did not disappoint. In fact, British-made cars played an integral role in the show. While some may argue that performances by U.K. rockers, The Who, and pop sensations George Michael, the Spice Girls and One Direction were the important parts of the ceremony, car enthusiasts may have been more captivated by the parade of automobiles that were peppered throughout the event.

The Spice Girls, a world-renowned all-girl pop group that was huge in the 1990s, reunited for the ceremony, and each singer rode in on top of a specially designed LTI London taxi, according to AutoBlog. The cars had platforms built right on top with electronically raised guard rails. Plus, each vehicle was covered in LED panels that displayed a colorful light show to add to the excitement of the performance.

The Girls' reunion was not the only performance that centered around four wheels. Jessie J, Tinie Tempah and Taio Cruz entertained the audience from the backseats of two Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II Drophead Coupes. Car Magazine reports that in place of the iconic double-R logo, the luxury vehicles had London 2012 emblems, which is the first time in the company's history that the Rolls-Royce badge has been replaced.

Not every car that took the stage was British-made however. The opening number of the closing ceremony involved a series of cars wrapped in newspaper. Car Magazine reports there was a Volkswagen Camper, an MG, an Alfa Romeo MiTo, an Austin-Healey Frogeye Sprite and of course a few Minis.

Drivers who want their cars to get the Olympic treatment can take them to NJ Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center for regular maintenance and repairs. The experts at this garage will have them up and running in no time.