The Crossroad Network

For the first time in forty years (!), Aston Martin has booked a profit, although theFord Premier Automotive Group to which it belongs lost about $100 million in 2005.

Chief executive Dr. Ulrich Bez (smiling at right) attributes the company's good news to a global boom in millionaires, with about 70 percent of Aston Martins sold outside the U.K. Only five years ago, 80 percent of the marque's production was sold in England.

Bez, formerly with Porsche, says that Aston Martin has created its own market niche, appealing to wealthy buyers who want performance and exclusivity, but with "English understatement."

Australian automaker Elfin has finally approved production of its MS8 Streamliner roadster. The car first debuted in concept form at the Melbourne Motor Show in 2004. Problems related to emissions and noise regulations have been resolved, and the automaker decided last week that it could go ahead with production.

P-FACTOR Automotive is the authorized North American distributor of premium components which personalize luxury and sport vehicles for the distinguished owner. Individualized tuning programs are available for Aston Martin, BMW, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, and Maserati vehicles. 

One the most highly anticipated flicks next summer is the CG-animated Transformers movie, which is sure to be a hit with just about any kid who grew up in the 80s. Well, those folks, are all grown up now and some have gotten themselves interested in cars. Those will be particularly interested to hear that Bumblebee will start out as a 1970s Camaro, but after some unannounced difficulties over the course of the film, he gets rebuilt as a 2008/09 Camaro. Yes, that awesome looking concept that has been making the rounds at the auto shows.