March 31, 2005
Nissan Breaks a Million, Carlos Ghosn to be Canonized
Normally you have to wait a day or two until the end of the month to get sales numbers from the auto companies.
Nissan, however, announced at "11:14 a.m. PST today," that they had "joined the exclusive "million" club by reporting 1,000,000 total fiscal year sales."
The breast beating continues, "making NNA one of only six automotive companies in automotive history to have sold 1 million vehicles in the U.S. within a 12 month period."
Jed Connelly, Nissan senior vice president, said employees would get back to work after the celebration: "Although we've achieved our objective, we're still planning on selling cars for the rest of the day and our dealers are motivated to keep the momentum going."
Posted by Frank at 07:02 PM | Comments (0)
More People Buying Diesels
According to data from R. L. Polk, diesel vehicle sales have increased by 56% the last five years.
Diesel-powered pickups comprise nearly 93% of the total in the five-year period. Sales of passenger cars with diesel engines, however, have increased 49% in that period. In 2000, 22,543 diesel cars were sold; in 2004, 33,541 diesel cars were bought in the U.S.
The annual sales of 468,990 diesels in 2004 equates to a 3.37% market share, up from 2.25% in 2000.
The Diesel Technology Forum, which distributed the data, has another survey that shows 70% of Americans agree that diesel fuel is easily obtainable at local service stations. This data is counter to the popular, seemingly incorrect, notion that many people believe diesel is difficult to find at convenient filling stations.
Diesel proponents hope the availability of four new models will lead to greater penetration in the passenger vehicle segment. In 2004 the Jeep Liberty CRD, Mercedes E-320 CDI and the Volkswagen Passat and Touareg were released, giving consumers more diesel choices outside the pickup truck market.
Posted by Frank at 05:45 PM | Comments (0)
California Buying Fleet of Hydrogen-Equipped Priuses
Quantum Technologies, the same company that built the Army's Aggressor, has a contract from a California agency to convert 30 Toyota Priuses to hydrogen fuel.
Using a system known as H2ICE, Quantum will swap out the gasoline fuel lines and install hydrogen fuel cells to make the Toyota Prius an even more environmentally friendly vehicle.
The $2.3 million contract results in a cost of $76,667 per converted Prius, which includes the purchase price of the base car. Quantum can convert individual cars for about $50,000 each, according to spokesman Robert Wise.
The California South Coast Air Quality Management District, which ordered the vehicles, is simultaneously working to install hydrogen fueling stations in the six cities where the vehicles will be sited.
Now why would a state agency would take 30 perfectly good gas-electric hybrids off the roads? Besides the too-easy swipe at California, the answer lies in availability. While several automakers have hydrogen vehicles in working prototype stages, they're not that easy to come by.
And while I can't get a real dollar amount out of anyone, they are whoppingly expensive. The H2ICE conversion creates the opportunity to get real hydrogen-powered cars on the road now.
Posted by Frank at 04:20 PM | Comments (0)
Unintended Consequences Dept: Malaysian Mercedes Owner Gives Thieves the Finger, Sort Of
When a gang of machete-wielding thieves tried to steal a Mercedes in Malaysia, they kidnapped the car's owner to make him activate the vehicle's fingerprint-activated "safety" system.
After tiring of the trouble of carting the owner around whole, the gang chopped his finger off and drive away in the car.
Thanks to Ericke for the "tip."
Posted by Frank at 03:45 PM | Comments (0)
Test Driving the Honda FCX Fuel Cell Vehicle
Well ... test drive is stretching it. I had the opportunity to take Honda's fuel cell-powered FCX around the block in D.C., during the ride and drive portion of yesterday's Hydrogen Conference.
When I first walked up to the vehicle, I didn't realize it was running. When my ears ajusted to the light whir of the hydrogen-powered engine, I decided to try and get an audio recording.
Placing a Creative Labs digital voice recorder right on the hood, I let it capture a few seconds of the whisking motor. Or so I thought.
Playing it back, what I actually heard was a recording of me saying, "Is this my ride?" and the Honda guy responding, "Are you Frank?" If you strain to hear the motor, you can, but this explanation is probably a better demonstration than me posting the audio file and you putting your ear next to the computer speaker!
In the FCX, the Honda rep reminded me the car was running -- but you could barely feel it. Once in drive, the acceleration was immediate with no slug, and strong. Using the "gas" ["hydrogen?"] pedal, the FCX responded smoothly, if not even more so than a typical gas car. There was no rpm spike before the transmission started putting the power to use.
Steering and brakes on the car were tight -- think of a well-tuned compact car. Stopping at a light, the FCX shut down the same way a hybrid does, but that doesn't mean off, as in having to restart it, it was just conserving molecules. Green light means go, and the FCX took us down the road, around a coned construction area, with sprightly ease.
Three more right turns and we were back at the queue of folks waiting to get their own chance in the FCX. The experience was noted most for its lack of noise, smell or even the sensation that I was using a machine to move us through the city. The hydorgen power plant simply transfers the sensation of using an automobile into the background -- it was less like driving a car than gliding through the streets.
My impression of the car -- and by extension, the technology -- is that we are on the cusp of a profound shift in transportation.
Considering how quiet the FCX is, it is a marvel to consider a city full of hydrogen-powered vehicles, quietly transporting their occupants, and effectively subtracting the internal combustion assault we have all grown accustomed to.
The pollution will be magically subtracted as well, clearing the air in city centers for the first time since the Industrial Revolution. I think it's a fair bet to say the aggregate fleet of fuel-cell buggies will cause less stink than the horses that pulled early transports. [But then again, fuel-cell vehicles do produce "water" as a waste product, tinkled at will.]
Cities, roads and neighborhoods will be transformed by fuel cell vehicles. By one measure, it resembles a technology bell curve with time as the "y" axis -- the advent of machines may have advanced civilization, but at a price of environmental and emotional stress. As fuel cells become a reality the negative components of technology, the noise, pollution and psychic stress, will diminish, leaving the positive advances intact.
Posted by Frank at 02:10 PM | Comments (0)
"Stealth" Hydrogen Vehicle Built for Army Special Forces
This $1 million working prototype hydrogen-fueled vehicle, known as the Aggressor, was built to take advantage of the technology's quiet running capabilties.
Quantum Technologies spent four months building the Aggressor, which does zero to forty in four seconds. With a top speed of 80 miles per hour, the Aggressor also boasts a "very low heat signature" strengthening its stealth capabilties, according to Robert Wise of Quantum.
Already submitted to and accepted by the Army, the one-off vehicle has undergone initial testing, Wise said.
The Aggressor was built for the Army's Special Forces units, which wanted a vehicle that was "light, maneuverable and very quick," Wise said, for situations "where a they need to get somewhere quick, quietly."
The Aggressor has a range of 125 miles and a mind-boggling 1,681 Ft-lbs. of torque. [Compare the new Dodge Charger SRT, which has 420 Ft-lbs. of torque.]. In addition to the primary fuel source of a 10 kw hydrogen fuel cell stack, the vehicle also has a 60 kw nickel metal hydride battery, that kicks in when quick acceleration or hard maneuvers are needed.
The Aggressor is set to go back to the Army for six months of hard testing. The project's future is still undecided, but typically, if the military wanted to go forward with the concept they would first order another 4 to 6 prototypes to put them through realistic field trials. If that second stage proved successful, a final production run would be commissioned.
The Aggressor is a two-seater that has a combined rollbar and gear cage in place of an enclosure, and an open storage area in the rear. It also includes power outlets to run equipment such as laptops and radios in the field.
The removable MOMO steering wheel does not have a horn, Wise said, "because that would take away from its stealth capabilties."
Posted by Frank at 01:17 PM | Comments (0)
Ford 500 in the House!
Just took delivery on a Ford 500 Limited. Beautiful burgundy, which I haven't seen on this model before. Took it for a spin down the parkway and will have a complete first impression report later.
Posted by Frank at 11:04 AM | Comments (0)
March 30, 2005
GM Announces Fuel Cell Deal with Gov't
General Motors will build a fleet of 40 hydrogen vehicles under an agreement with the Department of Energy, according to AP.
Worth $88 million total, GM will contribute half that amount to establish the fleet in D.C., New York, California and Michigan, with the DOE paying the other half.
The announcement comes on the second day of the Hydrogen Conference, where we are off to in a few minutes. Check back later in the day for pics and stories.
Posted by Frank at 08:51 AM | Comments (0)
D.C. Metro's Progressive Policy for Car Sharing Companies
I'm going to the Hydrogen Conference in the District today, and as I was checking train schedules on the Metro site, I came across a link that said "car sharing available at this station."
I took the photo you see here at the King Street station the other night when I came back from the NY Auto Show. The link on Metro's website helped me put two and two together.
I knew cars were scattered around the area for members to pick up, but didn't realize there are agreements in place where municipalities provide parking for vehicles from Flexcar and Zipcar.
According to Steven Ginsburg's article in yesterday's Washington Post, Metro provides spots at 66 of their 86 stations. Arlington County provides another 20 spots near Metro stations, which helped double usership among country residents.
The article also points out that the D.C. area is the only market where both companies co-exist. Perhaps because the notion that competition increases market share rather than limits it, the two companies have a combined 226 cars and over 14,000 members in the region.
I've covered Zipcar before, and I think the cool thing for me as a journalist is how I came across the service twice in the last couple days. For me, that is the best proof the car sharing idea is moving from press release bravado to real world implementation.
Posted by Frank at 06:49 AM | Comments (0)
Cops Pull Over 120 Speeders in Two and a Half Hours on One Road
Ever speed up when you see the guy in front of you get pulled over for speeding?
Well, so did 119 other drivers on Connecticut Avenue in Maryland on Tuesday.
Using ten officers at different intersections, Montgomery County Police issued 118 tickets and two warnings from 9-11:30 a.m. You have to figure their finger ligaments gave out to prompt the two warnings.
If you're a cop, or know one, then you know the hardest part of this detail is to keep from laughing when you pull over the guy who thought he was home free -- no wait, I'm sorry, traffic enforcement is serious business!
Posted by Frank at 01:18 AM | Comments (0)
March 29, 2005
Hyundai Debuts the Azera -- and Perhaps the Hyundai Way?
Hyundai President and CEO Bob Cosmai calls the new Azera, "the best sedan we've ever built."
Looking at it another way, it might even be the most important.
That's not to take anything away from the Sonata, recently picked as Consumer Reports most reliable car, and J.D. Power's best entry-sedan in initial quality. The Sonata is also Hyundai's best-selling vehicle, thanks to a sales surge that included a greater than 50% increase in February.
No, the Azera is proof that Hyundai isn't sitting still, and has eyes on broader markets. Replacing the XG350, the Azera flagship is really an entry-level luxury sedan. While no prices have been announced, it will certainly be at or above the XG350's $24,889 MSRP, and likely to top out around $30K.
The Azera will offer consumers an impressive array of features and appointments found in more expensive vehicles -- just as the rest of the company's lineup does.
Starting with the powerplant, an all-new 3.8 liter V6 with over 250 horsepower, the Azera will deliver more oomph than either the Ford 500 or the Buick Lacrosse. Mated to the engine is a five-speed automatic with a Shiftronic manual, riding atop four-wheel independent suspension.
And Cosmai, in his presentation, pointed out the Azera also has more room, and more airbags -- than either the Nissan Maxima or Toyota Avalon.
What we have here, then, is really another expression of the "Hyundai Way" -- offering more features in a vehicle than similar brands, at a lower price point.
Because the new sedan differs in so many ways from the XG350, it is more than an upgrade, and Cosmai said "we really felt it needed a new name."
The Azera has a 1.1 inch longer wheelbase and is wider and longer than its predecessor, and both the engine and interior are larger. Safety features on the new Azera include an electronic stability control system with traction control, anti-lock brakes with electronic force distribution and the previously mentioned eight airbags.
The interior is clearly aimed at comfort. The all-leather seating includes a memory system for the driver's chair, side view mirrors, steering column and foot pedals; there is a dual-zone climate control, tilt and telescoping wheel, a power rear sunshade and rain-sensing wipers.
The top of the line Azera includes an option for a 10-speaker Infinity sound system; all models will come with a factory-installed XM-receiver, per Hyundai's new agreement with the satellite company.
Finally, the Azera will be covered by Hyundai's 5 year or 60,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty, as well as the 10 year or 100,000 mile powertrain coverage -- and a 5 year roadside assistance plan.
When written about in the press, Hyundai is often described as the car company that used to have quality problems and is now making a name for itself as the manufacturer of well-built affordable cars. With the addition of the Azera, the Notebook senses a sea change -- where Hyundai will be described as the company famous for well-built affordable cars that is now making headway into the luxury market.
Posted by Frank at 12:50 PM | Comments (0)
ESUVEE Cloned! Moral Crisis Looming!
A Notebook Exclusive!
ESUVEE, the woolly mascot for a nationwide safety campaign, has been cloned.
The Notebook's sources tell us the procedure occurred in the Netherlands, the country whose sole purpose in the U.S. is to act as a foil for commentators to rail about the failure of socialized [fill in the blank].
The appearance of the mini-mammoth poses a quandary for the Bush administration, which supports life yet opposes life enhancing scientific research.
Pundits are already buzzing that the White House may have an out on the life issue, due to the foreign-born status of the creature.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, an advocate for his right to be President, has yet to have his operatives mount a stealth campaign for the compact ESUVEE.
Curiously, animal rights activists and conservatives already seem to be forming a tentative truce on the issue.
A PETA spokeshuman is reportedly concerned that the stunted growth of the clone may be due to artificially high gas prices in Northern Europe.
Conservatives, for their part, are using the plight of the creature to illustrate why socialist gas taxes impede the right to self-expression.
Mini-ESUVEE courtesy of Vowe.net, via BoingBoing.
Posted by Frank at 10:54 AM | Comments (0)
March 28, 2005
It's Official -- the Ford 500 Will be Redesigned
The Wall Street Journal is reporting the Ford Five Hundred is receiving a facelift -- to look more like the Fusion -- in response to complaints about lukewarm styling.
The article does not name names, but "people," and "individuals" who supposedly know what's going on.
Despite the solid sales, the Five Hundred is getting tough, perhaps unfair criticism from many corners, and is relentlessly said to be boring in contrast to the Chrysler 300.
Still, at the NY Auto Show, when I saw the Fusion I did think to myself, "that's probably what people wished the Five Hundred looked like." It has sharper lines and a more aggressive stance. It does look like a more fun car.
According to the WSJ, the Five Hundred -- shall we call it the "Swan" edition? -- should arrive in dealerships in 2007.
Posted by Frank at 10:36 PM | Comments (0)
How the Automobile Industry is like the Bicycle Market
Once the excitement of the Hyundai press conference died down, I heard someone utter an easy slur, "they ripped off the Lexus."
The new Azera is indeed an easy to slide into entry-level luxury sedan. With a welcoming cabin, understated yet still sophisticated styling, right-sized powerplant and supple suspension, it will indeed capture some of Lexus' customers.
But remember the slur that accompanied the first Lexus, Infiniti and Acura models? They were Japanese Buicks.
At first. The three automakers worked on their lines, from a base of offering a higher-end version of their own products, all along the lines of a cushy sedan, they each expanded their own way. Now we simply refer to them as what they are -- a trio of lines that offer near and full-luxury automobiles -- with coupes, sports cars and SUVs in the mix.
Now Hyundai has clearly announced they are getting into the same business with the Azera. Not only is it unfair to say they ripped off Lexus, such a facile comment fails to take into account how innovation works in an industry. Innovation that brings a better quality product at a more affordable price to more people.
The best example is the bicycle market. Up until the early 1980s, there were junkers and there were super high-end bikes with Italian gears. There was no middle market for the middle-income enthusiast. More important, there was no middle market because the product wasn't available.
Then a historical trifecta occurred. At roughly the same time, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, the mountain bike phenomenon and the Ironman triathlon exploded on the scene.
Simultaneously, feverish development of equipment was occurring. The Americans wanted to win in L.A., mountain bikes started moving from $2,000 machines down the price scale and the triathletes were all looking for ways to save tenths of seconds off their performance.
Suddenly, crazy pieces of equipment, like carbon-fiber wheels, snap-in cleats, shock absorbers, upright handlebars and even hammered-flat spokes started appearing in competition. Some of you may remember the bullet-shaped helmets and spray-on latex outfits some competitors were experimenting with.
At first, the prices were outrageous, only available on two-wheeled machines that cost well over four figures. Then mass-produced versions of a lot of the equipment started appearing. And mountain bike companies started popping up, offering more and more affordable versions of "professional" rides.
End result? today you can buy a bicycle for $499 that is better than a $2,000 bicycle from 20 years ago. Yes, you can buy a garbage bike that has front shocks for $79.99. But the point is you can buy an incredible bike today with equipment and performance specs that didn't even exist a couple decades ago.
Is anyone saying these vendors ripped off the welders at Gary Fisher bicycles? No, chances are you didn't even know then names of Joe Breeze, Fisher or Tom Ritchey. However, if you own anything that looks like a mountain bike, you are riding on the spirit of their innovation.
Again, because of these innovations, a huge market for well-made, high-performance bicycles exploded. People started buying bicycles again. Millions of them. The same has occurred in near-luxury automobiles. Not many people thought there was a market for a Japanese Buick, but they persisted and have carved out – some would say created – a huge market.
Once ideas are turned into product, and after a product language is accepted by consumers, the core essence becomes part of the public domain. Just as the early Japanese manufacturers started making small cars, then decided to get into the business of making "Buicks," so Hyundai and others are forging ahead with new products.
Perhaps they are taking advantage of some of the pioneering work done by others, and making a certain design language their own, but that is the way innovation operates. Hyundai may be building better cars in some cases, or cutting corners in others, but they are manufacturing and marketing cars toward reaching a broader customer base.
Bottom line, the consumer wins. The trio of the '84 Olympics, mountain biking and triathlons have contributed to a resurgence of cycling in the United States, and have made better bikes more affordable to more people.
As bicycles have gone in the last two decades, we are seeing the same advances in automobiles. One day, someone is going to accuse someone else of ripping off Hyundai. After taking advantage of their free food and drink, of course.
Posted by Frank at 08:42 PM | Comments (0)
Now You Have to Blink When Driving Through Town
Going forward, residents of La Pine, Oregon would appreciate it if you'd refer to their burg as a "one stop light town," thank you very much.
The rural town of 5,800 is about to get its very first traffic signal. Until the light can be installed, however, a matching set of four-way stop signs will serve.
No longer will anyone be able to deride their village with the phrase, "don't blink or you'll miss it"!
No word yet on whether the town drunk will be reclassfied as part of the municipality's permanent underclass.
Posted by Frank at 05:25 PM | Comments (0)
Negative Equity, Part Three: Edmunds.com Suggests Using Your Tax Refund to Get Out From Under
Our friends over at Edmunds.com have published a new article speaking to those who are upside down in their car loans.
In the Notebook's original articles, [part one, part two], we relied on Edmunds' data that shows 26.2% of consumers owe more on their car than it's actually worth. Hence the term "upside down" car loan.
With the average tax refund of a little over $2,200, Edmunds is suggesting consumers use it wisely, considering the scope of their overall finances.
Philip Reed, Edmunds Senior Editor, says, "It would be an excellent idea for consumers in an 'upside down' situation to apply their tax refund to their car loan to pay off their negative equity."
According to Edmunds' data, the average amount of negative equity in February 2005 was $3,646.
In his article at Edmunds, Reed points out a frightening observation -- 26% of car buyers consider trading in a car with negative equity to be "just part of the car-buying process."
This devil-may-care approach has worked up to now, but only because dealers have had high cash rebates for consumers to use to pay off that negative equity.
Reed cautions that if the big rebate money continues to evaporate, as much as one-quarter of the car buying public may be in for a rude surprise.
Without that rebate bankroll -- and for those who don't use their tax refund wisely -- car buyers may find they may simply be priced out of a new car.
Posted by Frank at 02:50 PM | Comments (0)
Hyundai Threw the Best Party at the NY Show
Just about the time I was thinking the car company's should hire professional spokesfolks to introduce their cars, Hyundai hosted a neat event for the unveil of their new luxury vehicle, the Azera.
By itself, the band was pretty good. Then Bob Cosmai, Hyundai CEO & President, told us we were in for a real treat -- besides showing us their brand new car, they were treating the assembled to a mini-concert from the broadway show, Movin' Out.
The lead singer, Michael Cavanuagh, sings all the Billy Joel songs that are the soundtrack of the hit Broadway show, and he treated us to a bunch. Even weirder for me, was that I wound up knowing the bassist, John Conte.
Anyway, the press conference was a smart move by Hyundai. It was held at the end of the first day, off-site, and people had a chance to chill out. It was just plain fun. And the entertainment was blended in nicely with the unveil of the car.
Hyundai also showed their tech savvy by giving out a flash drive with the Azera press kit on it, and I'm pretty sure they bluetoothed the photos onto my camera. There was a bunch on the memory card when I downloaded in the morning, so I figure that's how they got there. But then again, there was also free beer.
Posted by Frank at 02:04 PM | Comments (0)
March 27, 2005
Autographed Shelby Press Kits Going for Big Bucks on eBay
After the jubilant press conference for the Mustang GT500 at the NY Auto Show last week, Carroll Shelby was mobbed by fans asking for interviews, pictures and autographs.
Many were asking Shelby to autograph Ford's press kit, which includes a CD-ROM with photos, video and audio of Shelby talking about and driving the car.
At least five of those people have responded to the 82-year-old Shelby's graciousness by turning around and shilling the customized kits on eBay.
As of 10 p.m. Sunday night, there were twelve kits on sale, with bids ranging from $52 to $177.50. One particularly enterprising entrepreneur, "kickasstv," has four of the autographed kits. Another seller, "1dearborn," has three for sale, while "goszoom," was only able to badger Shelby for two no-cost opportunities at spinning a buck off his Texas scrawl.
Posted by Frank at 04:03 PM | Comments (0)
Ford Fusion on Sale in the Fall
Ford's mid-size 2006 Fusion, a sharply styled car that fits in between the Focus and the Ford Five Hundred, will sell for between $17,000 and $21,000 this fall.
Two powertrain versions are on tap, both four-cylinders, one with 160-hp, the other, 210 hp. Ford plans to offer five speed manual or automatic for the base engine and a six-speed automatic for the upgrade. Ford plans to add a hybrid version, based on the Escape SUV, after the initial launch.
Posted by Frank at 03:51 PM | Comments (0)
Subaru's SUV Exceeds Expectations
Elegant. That's the word that kept popping into my head and onto my tongue when I was interviewing Subaru execs at the NY Auto Show.
The B9 Tribeca SUV, Subaru's newest product entry is more than a new vehicle for consumers. It's a bold innovation for the company that has long had a loyal customer base and is looking for a way to break into the larger market.
The Tribeca is polished. The satin white pearl finish adorning the show vehicle is aptly named -- it has a lustre and depth to it that suggests the car is solidly built through and through.
Expected to sell for under $40,000, the Tribeca is a three-row, seven-seater SUV, which is pretty much de rigeur for company's who hope to sell big uprights to consumers who have grown edgy over gas consumption. In other words, if it doesn't have the extra seating, people are thinking of buying wagons.
The car's exterior styling is part of a "new design language" that will eventually find its way into other Subaru models, said Bill Cyphers, Subaru's VP of Sales.
The car's elegant nose, grill and hood lines are meant to evoke Subaru's heritage as an aircraft company, Cyphers said. Indeed, the vehicle's front profile has an aerodynamic visage that speaks of speed and ability. The design element continues along the side of the vehicle's "J-line," in a sculpted ridge that flares out toward the tail.
The Tribeca's interior may be even more impressive.
It incorporates the exterior's aerodynamic sweep in a front dash that wraps around the more than 180-degree horizon, and transmits a feeling of being ensconced in a customized space.
Rick Crosson, Subaru's VP of Marketing, said the interior provides the room expected of an SUV, "but it wraps around you instead of making you feel like you're floating."
Crosson said consumer reaction to the Tribeca has exceeded the company's projections. "We've gotten a lot of fantastic comments on the B9 Tribeca," he said, including over 100,000 hand-raisers who have signed up for updates at the Tribeca website.
The Tribeca will come equipped with a V6 Subaru Boxer engine as well as the company's symmetrical all-wheel drive. Mileage figures have not been announced for the vehicle, which will go on sale later this year. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard, as are safety features such as anti-lock brakes, dual-stage front airbags, side-impact front airbags and curtain air bags.
Posted by Frank at 01:59 PM | Comments (0)
Superstar Pontiac Solstice Presenter
Hands down, this guy was the best presenter at the NY Auto Show. After the executives do their speeches for the industry and auto press, product specialists take the podium and give presentations to the crowd over the speaker system.
Since over a million people walk through the NY Show, their job may even be more important than the company execs. After all, journalists don't buy all the cars they write about.
After three days of trudging through the show, I was beat. But I wanted to take a last run through the halls to see if there was anything I may have missed.
This guy, "Peter," was doing an audio standup about the Pontiac Solstice convertible and he caught my attention. He was so full of energy and enthusiasm, and was such a good showman, he got me to wander over.
I had seen the Solstice, and to me it was just another car. But Peter went through the talking points in a way that grabbed the audience and drew them in. Other people wandered over, and he kept hammering it home.
The Solstice, due later this year, is going to sell for 20 grand. It's exciting. Fully loaded, it'll be 25K. And so on. As I listened, the presentation made me think differently about the car. Kind of like, "hmm," and "really?" and "that's interesting."
And that's what a good salesman does. Makes you stop and think differently about something you may have overlooked, or even dismissed. Gets you excited about it.
His performance reminded me of Ed McMahon's old bit where he used to sell a pencil box on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Everyone could see it was just a cigar box, but Ed's point [he is not as famous for being a sales trainer, but he's got a book on it], is that it's not the box, but about how it means something to the potential customer.
Peter, who asked I not use his last name, turns out to be a professional voice over artist. He may also be a natural salesman. GM needs a platoon just like him.
Posted by Frank at 11:06 AM | Comments (0)
March 26, 2005
Mercedes New R-Class to be Built in Alabama
To refer to this vehicle as a crossover would be to create a false impression.
Yes, the body style and function design combines SUV, wagon and sedan elements, but the word crossover tends to imply something cobbled together, a mish-mash.
Up close, the new R-Class is weighty in appearance and in fact -- the V6 and V8 versions both come in just under two and a half tons. To compensate for American tastes, the R-Class that will be built and sold here will be longer than it's European counterpart. Specifically its five inches longer than a Cadillac Escalade and ten inches longer than the SRX.
The extra length creates the interior space necessary for three rows of seating, leaving over 30 inches of leg room between the second and third rows.
Official prices weren't released in New York, but the 268-hp V6 is expected to be just under $50,000; the 302-hp V8 will be slightly higher.
Since the company expects to sell 60% of global volume in the United States, it's no mistake the R-Class was unveiled in New York, and that special attention was made to cater to American taste.
Both models [R350 and R500, repsectively] boast full-time all-wheel drive, four-wheel independent suspension and a seven speed automatic transmission. The R350 has 17-inch wheels, the R500 has 18s, and comes with larger brakes.
They haven't been tested for fuel economy, and will probably need the 25 gallon gas tank to give owners a livable driving range. Mercedes will offer a diesel version, probably some time in late 2006.
High tech goodies include an optional dual screen entertainment center, allowing a movie to be watch on one side, and a video game or other entertainment can be viewed on the other.
Standard safety gear includes anti-lock brakes,ESP stability control, four-wheel traction control and brake assist. Front row occupants are protected by dual-stage front airbags and side impact and window curtain bags. Second and third row occupants are protected by window curtain airbags that deploy from teh ceiling and down the length of the cabin.
The vehicles will be built in Mercedes' Tuscaloosa, Alabama manufacturing plant, where they have recently spent $600 million to expand capacity.
Posted by Frank at 08:09 PM | Comments (0)
Scion Sciwag
This mouspad comes as a glued insert in the twice-yearly magazine put out for enthusiasts.
And it came just at the right time, as there are only so many times you can wipe down a mousepad that acts as a coffee cup coaster.
Unfortunately, I haven't been able to track down exactly where you can get the mag online. They had plenty at the auto show, and one came in the Scion press kit. If anyone knows, clue me in and I'll post it.
Posted by Frank at 07:49 PM | Comments (0)
Aftermarket Black Box Available for Consumers
or, "I'm the parent. I am the law."
For $280, parents can install an interactive "black box" in their family vehicle that will monitor teen driving behavior when Mom and Dad are out of sight.
The RS-1000 from Road Safety International allows users to download trip data that includes driving times, speed, seat belt use and erratic driving behavior. The company plans to release a GPS module that will tell parents where their teen drivers traveled in the family car as well.
A particularly incriminating feature of the program are its ability to create printed reports that can be reviewed over the dinner table.
The device, however, goes beyond just snooping. It includes an on-board audio alarm, that goes off when speed and other factors reach troublesome levels, with the idea that the feedback will help teen drivers correct their driving behavior before a problem occurs.
Posted by Frank at 06:10 PM | Comments (0)
Black Box Backlash
A North Dakota state senator is leading an effort to prohibit "black box" data from being collected and used against drivers, according to AP.
Raymon Holmberg's bill would require that consumers be informed the unit -- known as a Sensing and Diagnostic Module [SDM] -- is installed in their vehicle at purchase, and is intended to quell privacy concerns as well as keep data away from prosecutors.
North Dakota law currently requires a search warrant to obtain data from the SDM -- which was designed to collect airbag deployment data. But prosecutors have won this right in several cases across the country and in Canada and used the data to obtain convictions for manslaughter.
A recent New York case, in which a pair of drag racers were charged with the deaths of two people, led to a ruling that the data could be used in the criminal trial. In the face of the evidence collected from the SDM -- the men were driving 139 mph -- the accused both plead guilty to second degree manslaughter.
Information is collected from the SDM using aftermarket devices such as this system made by Vetronix. The SDM records information such as speed and brake status before impact, seat belt use and whether the passenger's air bag switch is enabled.
Ten state legislatures besides North Dakota are considering black box legislation, acording to AP. California law requires dealers and rental companies to inform drivers a car has a black box, and New York prohibits rental companies from using GPS to track drivers.
Posted by Frank at 05:01 PM | Comments (0)
March 25, 2005
Scenes from the Urban Tuner Salon
In the front parking lot of the Jacob Javits Center, XM radio is sponsoring a tent filled with the latest and greatest in customized vehicles. In this pic, a Mazda 3 takes second rank behind Kerri Ford and Lisa Lombardi, both working the auto show for Mazda.
Tyrone Wimbush of New York makes working the show look easy in front of this '02 Civic Si
A rep for Turtle Wax is explaining the finer points of polish to showgoers.
This "DUB Edition" of the 300 belongs to Snoop Dogg.
Posted by Frank at 04:41 PM | Comments (0)
Suzuki Reinvigorates SUV Line with Concept-X2
Now here's a good sign -- when the speeches and the official debut of Suzuki's new SUV were done, a group of about 12 to 15 Suzuki dealers took command of the stage and launched into an enthusiastic team cheer.
Of course, auto dealers have to at least feign excitement for new vehicles that come from their suppliers, but this group wasn't faking it -- after the cheer they got busy taking pictures of each other in front of the car, inside it and with their arms around each other while grinning ear to ear.
All the while they were acting like they had won the lottery.
Cam Smith Arnold, Suzuki Motors Vice President, said while the company is excited about the new Concept-X2, the members of their dealer body are ecstatic.
"They've seen what we've done the last few years," Arnold said. "We let the results speak for themselves."
Suzuki is at an enviable inflection point in their 20-year history as an American auto retailer. Sales were up 26.5% last year, after the successful introduction of new car models such as the Forenza-Reno platform, the Verona sedan as well as the continued success of the Suzuki Aerio hatchback.
And the news about the company is no secret on the dealer side of the business. Arnold said Suzuki will add 60 new dealerships this year, bringing their U.S. total to 600, from the current 540.
Now the company that started as an SUV-maker is getting back to its roots, with a planned roll-out of two new sport utes in the next two years.
First on tap will be a production version of the Concept-X2, unveiled here in New York, an SUV that will replace the Grand Vitara. The X2 will have a 185 hp V6, as does the Vitara, but will be eleven inches shorter and four inches wider, likely giving the X2 a quicker, yet more sure-footed performance profile. The second new SUV to hit the streets will be a production model derived from the Concept-X, unveiled at January's Detroit Auto Show.
The X2 SUV "goes back to the core of Suzuki, that's our heritage," Arnold said. In terms of the company's performance, the new SUV freshens their offerings and should reenergize sales in that category.
"Now that we have a broader line, we have an opportunity to increase brand loyalty," Arnold said.
From the look of things here in New York, Suzuki dealers know their brand is on a roll.
Posted by Frank at 02:17 PM | Comments (0)
Sam Vassallo's 1968 Shelby GT500
When Ford knew they were going to be unveiling their new Shelby Mustang here in New York, they went looking for a couple classic models to add historicity to their display.
Sam Vassallo, of New Jersey, is pictured here beside his '68 Shelby "King of the Road" Mustang. His daughter Marina is inside the car. Father and daughter must be on good terms, because I didn't see him let too many other people climb inside, considering the way they maul the other show cars.
A member of the Garden State Mustang Club, Vassallo took the day off fom work to escort the car to the show. And no, he didn't drive it up the Turnpike. As the car is valued at about $90,000, Vassallo trailered the car in, and never ventured far. Plus, the air filter cover has Carroll Shelby's autograph on it, and running the engine could blister the ink.
The '68 is one of two classic Mustang's Vassallo owns -- he gave me a pic of the second car, and when I dig it out of my bag, I'll post it.
Posted by Frank at 01:30 PM | Comments (0)
Friday at the NY Auto Show: Camp Jeep Opens to Massive Crowds
People started lining up three hours in advance of the "Camp Jeep" exhibit opening this morning, and it seems like the truly "participatory" exhibit is going to break last years record of 36,000 test riders and 300,000 visitors.
Jeep has rented the entire North Pavilion for their 45,000 square foot display where visitors get to do a ride-along in brand new Jeeps, based on the theory that 40% of auto show attendees change their mind about which vehicle to buy, based on their show experience.
Sound cool? It is, but the really amazing thing is that Jeep hauled in 3,000 yards of dirt and four tons of rocks to create an indoor figure-eight track. With a dogleg.
Jeep drivers will take auto show guests up a couple hill climbs, over rocks and logs, around moguls and through water during the course of the seven-minute ride.
Jeep will be running 10 vehicles on the track at any one time, and visitors will get a chance to ride in the new Jeep Commander, the company's first seven-seat, three-row vehicle.
Posted by Frank at 12:19 PM | Comments (0)
Hyundai's new Azera Equipped with Infinity Sound System
Besides announcing they are going to factory install XM receivers in all their models, Hyundai is also raising the bar in terms of audio equipment quality.
The new Azera sedan [a more upscale replacement for the XG350] will have an option for a 10-speaker Infinity system that pumps 315 watts out the amplifier. The system will only be available on the Limited package of the Azera.
Posted by Frank at 11:46 AM | Comments (0)
Hyundai Gets Flashy
Hyundai loaded their NY Auto Show press kit for the new Azera onto this flash drive, which is cool in itself.
Those of us carrying 30 pound bags of press materials are especially grateful.
This particular drive's got 62 megs of memory, and I'm pretty sure it can be erased and reused -- but most of all, it's light and it's small!
Posted by Frank at 11:21 AM | Comments (0)
Test Driving the Gran Turismo Driving Simulator
Subaru runs a Gran Turismo driving simulator at the auto shows and this was the first time I had the chance to climb on board.
I ran the dirt course, and barely avoided going off the cliff during the three minute trial. I had a ball! Our friend Scott Putnam over at Subaru.net races these cars in real life, and now we're really interested in getting to a non-virtual rally race.
The game also has a fun feature where photographers jump in the middle of the road to grab a pic. I started aiming for them at the end, partly out of transferred frustration from all the jabonies here at the show that keep walking in front of your shot.
Posted by Frank at 11:01 AM | Comments (0)
March 24, 2005
Scion t2B
Scion's t2B concept car was unveiled in NY, and company reps were never far away from the car which everyone simply wanted to caress.
Hand built in three months by Toyota's Southern Cal Design team, the t2B is a working vehicle, but Scion's Brian Bolain said the car simply cost too much to take out for a spin, even on the company's campus.
This is the first all-new concept from Scion since introducing the first concepts prior to Scion's launch. Since those early unveils were done in New York, Bolain said they wanted to continue the tradition with the t2B.
The car is not -- repeat, is not -- a candidate for production. Bolain said Scion they created the project as a way to deliver the "element of surprise" that Scion has become known for.
Since this is the first full-year of national sales for all three Scion models, Bolain said the company is interested in seeing "what the market thinks of what we've done so far, so we can better decide what we should be doing next."
The t2B is a three-door hatchback -- a trick executed with suicide doors on the driver side and a single remote-controlled slider on the other. The front dash features a prominent iPod dock, a graduated light show and a straight-handled shifter for the four-speed automatic transmission.
Despite looking as if it might have been built on a stripped down xB platform, Bolains said the design team built the car from the ground up. The engine is a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder, and the car is fitted with 20-inch skins.
Bolain said he and his 15 Scion colleagues [it's a small unit] will be closely monitoring public reaction to the t2B. "So much of Scion is about listening to our customers," Bolain said. "What's more important is their perception -- what they want to be driving, not just what we think."
Part of listening to their customers takes the form of web surfing. Bolain recommended the independent site Scion Life as a place to get a good handle on the car company's burgeoning enthusaist community.
"It's great because it's a feedback mechanism we didn't have before," Bolain said, adding that whwen he gets back to Torrance, Scion Life will be one of his first stops.
Posted by Frank at 05:36 PM | Comments (0)
Dodge Charger in Four-Door Glory
Coming soon, the new Dodge Charger may steal some of the Mustang's thunder when it comes out with a V6/V8 lineup starting in the low-20s.
The V8 is the 5.7-liter Hemi with its 340 hp, and sports variable cylinder management to achieve better MPG. The V6 has 250-hp.
And not only does the Charger have two many doors, it only comes with an automatic.
Posted by Frank at 05:26 PM | Comments (0)
UPDATED: Dodge Charger Police Version
This car bears the number "54" and comes with the all-rubber, puke-resistant pebbled flooring. And the lights work.
Update: Dodge put out a press release on the police version, posted after the jump. My first impression: given the ongoing problems with the Ford Crown Victoria [Ford won't sell to departments that refuse to sign a no-sue clause over the gas tank issue], it looks like Dodge is trying to sniff out whether or not there's a market. Plus, it's great street cred for guys who dig the cop thing.
Dodge in Hot Pursuit of Police Car Market with HEMI(R)-powered 2006 Dodge Charger
- Dodge puts 340 horses under good guys' hoods
- Dodge Charger joins Dodge Magnum to make modern muscle available for street patrol
- Superior rear-wheel-drive performance and handling characteristics designed to perform and protect
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Dodge charges into the police car market this fall with the all-new 2006 Dodge Charger police vehicle, offering law enforcement agencies a four-door sedan with all the power, handling and functionality they require to effectively patrol the streets.
"With rear-wheel drive and available HEMI(R) power at the pavement, the Dodge Charger provides optimum police car pursuit performance," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President - Dodge Marketing, Chrysler Group. "Dodge has a strong police heritage and is proud to offer vehicles armed with modern muscle and cutting-edge technology."
The 2006 Dodge Charger police vehicle will join the previously announced Dodge Magnum police vehicle to round out Dodge's growing fleet of bold, powerful and capable vehicles for law enforcement agencies.
"We listened to what law enforcement officers asked for and paid attention to the details that are important to them," said Ray Fisher, Vice President - Sales, Service and Parts Operations, Chrysler Group. "By integrating features and functionality into the original design of the Dodge Charger, we can give our police customers an affordable, capable vehicle with industry-leading innovations."
For the ultimate in pursuit power, the Dodge Charger police vehicle will be available with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that produces 340 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 390 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. The V-8 HEMI engine features Chrysler Group's Multi-displacement System (MDS), which seamlessly alternates
between smooth, high fuel economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is required. Fuel efficiency improves by up to 20 percent with MDS, but not at the expense of performance. Dodge Charger police vehicles equipped with HEMI engines will be able to go from zero to 60 mph in just 6.0 seconds.
The 2006 Dodge Charger police car also will be available with a powerful, 3.5-liter High Output V-6 engine that provides 250 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque at 3800 rpm, offering an outstanding blend of performance and fuel economy.
A fully electronic five-speed automatic transmission with an
Electronically Modulated Converter Clutch (EMCC) offers improved shift feel to match a variety of driving styles, situations and road conditions. This transmission is standard on all Dodge Charger police cars. Heavy-duty brakes and linings, also standard on Charger police vehicles, provide secure and stable deceleration and braking capability.
In addition, Dodge Charger police vehicles will include an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Emergency Brake Assist, All-speed Traction Control and four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). Combined, these features will provide balance and control for officers in a variety of surface and
weather conditions.
* ESP enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability in turns, even on uneven surfaces, patchy snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between what the driver asks through the steering and the vehicle's path, ESP applies selective braking and throttle control to put the car back onto the driver's intended path
* Emergency Brake Assist detects when maximum braking is required through sensing the rate of brake application. By applying full brake pressure to all four brakes, this system improves stopping distance
* All-speed Traction Control enhances mobility and prevents wheel slip when accelerating on slippery surfaces. It also provides a measure of directional stability control and helps keep the car on its intended course. The system works by braking the slipping wheel in low-traction situations. However, it also can adjust the throttle control, making the vehicle less
reliant on brake applications alone
* ABS keeps the vehicle straight and retains steering capability while braking on slippery surfaces by preventing wheel lock-up
Both passive and active safety features also are incorporated in the new Dodge Charger police vehicles. These include: advanced multistage driver and front passenger air bags, a front passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) for controlled airbag deployment, constant force seat belt retractors, pretensioners, an energy-absorbing steering column, optional side-curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system to alert officers of low tire
pressure.
Preliminary Standard Features:
Standard features on the 2006 Dodge Charger police vehicle will include the following items of particular importance to law enforcement customers:
* 100-amp battery power feed in trunk
* 160-amp high-output alternator
* 160-mph calibrated speedometer
* 800CCA heavy-duty battery
* cloth front bucket seats with manual lumbar and rear fixed bench seat
* column shifter
* easy path wiring grommet between underhood and passenger compartment
* emergency rear-door-lock override
* external oil coolers
* four-wheel independent performance suspension
* heavy-duty brakes and linings
* integrated engine hour meter
* P225/60R 18 V-rated all-season performance tires and 18-inch steel
wheels
* performance-tuned steering
* police equipment interface module
* police equipment mounting bracket
* rear door locks and rear window switches inoperable from the rear seats
* severe-duty cooling system
* software-controlled alternating head- and taillamps
* special electrical wiring for police market applications
* speed control
* stealth mode switch for interior lighting
Additional standard features and optional equipment are available on the Dodge Charger police vehicle to provide law enforcement customers an affordable vehicle with industry-leading innovations that make upfitting the vehicle faster and safer.
Production:
Production for the 2006 Dodge Charger and Dodge Magnum police vehicles will begin in the fall of 2005 at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ontario (Canada) alongside the 2006 Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300.
The 2006 Dodge police vehicles will be available to county, city and state police departments in the fourth quarter of 2005, with pricing announced at that time.
BeaconWear(TM) Safety Vests:
Chrysler Group is committed to the safety and security of its customers, employees and those who keep America safe. To keep members of the New York Police Traffic Department safer while performing their law enforcement duties, the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund donated 250 BeaconWear(TM) Safety Vests to the Department today at the New York Auto Show during the media reveal of the 2006 Dodge Charger Police vehicle.
While the Dodge Charger offers law enforcement agencies a four-door sedan with all the power, handling and functionality they require to effectively patrol the streets, the BeaconWear Safety Vest offers police officers the extra protection they need when outside of their vehicles.
The most common cause of injury for police officers is being hit by another vehicle while outside of a squad car. The BeaconWear vest features reflective strips that can be seen further and more clearly when it is dark or weather is inclement. With the aid of battery-powered illuminated vests however, there is a decreased risk of police officers being injured, disabled or killed by a motorist when they leave their squad cars.
Police Car Heritage:
The former Chrysler Corporation dominated the police car business
throughout the 1960s, '70s and early '80s, with U.S. market shares ranging from 45-60 percent. Police vehicles manufactured by the former Chrysler Corporation included the Dodge Monaco, Dodge Royal Monaco, Dodge Coronet, Dodge Diplomat, Dodge Dart, Dodge St. Regis, Plymouth Fury, Plymouth Gran Fury, Plymouth Volare and Chrysler Newport.
Recently, Dodge returned to the police car market after a 12-year hiatus with the 2002 Dodge Intrepid. The front-wheel-drive Dodge Intrepid earned a 4 percent share of the approximately 70,000 unit U.S. market. That vehicle was phased out of production in 2003.
In the fall of 2004, Dodge previewed the 2006 Dodge Magnum as a police vehicle offering enhanced rear-wheel-drive performance and handling with a spacious, flexible interior for police special service uses.
Posted by Frank at 05:20 PM | Comments (0)
Toyota's Demonstrates Personal Transporter in New York
Displayed solely for gee-whiz purposes
Posted by Frank at 02:17 PM | Comments (0)
Nissan Sport Concept Looks Ultra Cool, Ultra Fast in Real Life
The Nissan fella guarding the car had clear command of oneEnglish phrase, "please don't touch."
More pics and Nissan release after the jump.
Nissan Brings Urban Art Culture to New York Auto Show with Help from Barnstormer Artists; Artists from Critically Acclaimed Group Barnstormers Paint Creative Backdrop for Nissan's Latest Sport Concept
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 23, 2005--Visitors to this year's New York International Auto Show not only have a chance to see the latest new cars and trucks but can also take in a bit of urban culture at the Nissan display.
Nissan has collaborated with a group of New York-based artists to paint a creative backdrop for Nissan's newest vehicle, the Sport Concept, at its public world debut.
The interactive display will feature artists painting a 40-foot mural in real-time, inspired by the Sport Concept, and a "video jockey" mixing music and DVD video on a large LED screen above the canvas. Painting commences at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 23, and is scheduled to be completed by 3:00 p.m. for Nissan's media reception, where journalists attending the show on the first of two press days can take in the completed artwork and speak with Nissan designers about the Sport Concept.
"The Nissan Sport Concept is designed to appeal to the youth market that actively seeks out style, innovation, and personal expression," said Fred Suckow, director of marketing, Nissan North America. "We think the best way to showcase the Sport Concept is alongside artists who are expressing those exact same qualities."
The Nissan Sport Concept offers the look and feel of a sports tuner car, yet is conceived as an affordable, attainable vehicle for buyers entering the new car marketplace for the first time. It is designed to be a performance-oriented hatchback with the style and individuality to match the lifestyles of its young, active buyers.
"This car is a celebration of youth, with its simple pureness and raw energy," said artist Romon Kimin Yang, a.k.a. Rostarr. "Many of us draw our inspirations from our childhood with certain influences from urban living. This mural is the visual manifestation of the vitality and movement grounded in today's youth."
The painting will remain at the Nissan display through the public days at the NYIAS, which run from March 25 to April 3. Following the show, Nissan will take the art on a cross-country tour to its various North American facilities, underscoring Nissan's future offerings of small, youth-oriented vehicles.
About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissanusa.com.
About the Artists
Rostarr
Romon Kimin Yang, a.k.a. Rostarr, is a New York based Korean-American artist who has exhibited throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. His work is defined by a style he calls 'Graphysics', which is based on Graphic design + Physics. Creating in a free-formed and automatic manner, his work weaves an individual vocabulary of iconography & symbolism to create abstract worlds. Nature, human psychology and spirituality are all inspirations in which he incorporates in his art. His work has been extended into the mediums of painting, sculpture, digital art/animation, textiles and collaborations with the art collective 'Barnstormers.' With sponsorships and collaborations with companies such as Nike, Gravis, Agnes B, Yamaha, etc., Rostarr has been branded on a worldwide scale. In January 2000, he was featured as one of I.D. magazine's "40 under 30". He was also recognized as an honoree in the 2004 A.I.C.P. show for graphics for Nike Basketball Asia. In 2001, he published the book "Graphysics" by Rostarr. His artwork has been reviewed by the New York Times, The Village Voice, Dazed & Confused, W, Vogue Nippon, Relax, Interview, The Fader, i-D, Surface and others.
Yuri Shimojo
Yuri Shimojo has been expressing her life through painting, drawing, writing, and dancing since she was 3 years old. Her upbringing in Tokyo consisted of learning Japanese traditional arts and experiencing foreign culture through traveling abroad. These two elements have influenced life's work. She now lives in Brooklyn where her daily inspirations come from collaborative "jam sessions" with her family of artists, the Barnstormers. She also practices ancient natural healing. Shimojo has published several books of her own artwork, including: "Crimson Full Moon" (1995), which showcases her earlier works; "Tiny Scribble" (1997), an autobiography of her unique childhood; and "Vagabonds" (2001), a picture journal from her trip in Central America and Mexico.
Christian Mendoza
Christian Mendoza is a New York City-based painter from Nicaragua whose work draws from the experiences of his homeland and the influences of New York City and Miami. His father was a respected architect and first inspired Mendoza to draw and paint. When his family moved to the Bronx in the 1980's, Mendoza began to develop a style that combined architectural draftsmanship with the new inspirations of letters, faces, and forms that covered the subways of New York City. Mendoza later moved to Miami, where he attended the Center for Media Arts and drew further influences from the city's colors and forms. He returned to New York in 2000, where he now lives and works in a range of styles that culminate all the influences of his early development. As a founding member of the Inkheads and an influential member of the Barnstormers, Mendoza has been involved in collaborative art making for over a decade. Mendoza has been commissioned by Altoids (Brooklyn & Miami), GASBOOK, the Micranots, The Creek South Beach Hotel, and is in the collections of performers including Bobbito, and KRS ONE. Mendoza's work has appeared in V Magazine, Interview, STYLE, NewYork1, RES Magazine, Tokion, and Relax Magazine among others.
Posted by Frank at 02:00 PM | Comments (0)
BMW Unveils New 3-Series in New York
Full BMW release and another pic after the jump.
All-New 2006 BMW 3 Series and Enhanced 2006 7 Series Make North American Debut at The New York International Auto Show
Prices Announced for 2006 3 Series, 7 Series as well as 5 Series
NEW YORK, March 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The all-new 2006 3 Series and the enhanced 2006 7 Series make their North American debut at the New York International Auto Show. Prices were announced for the 2006 3 Series and 7 Series as well as the 2006 5 Series, including all-wheel drive models. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices for the 325i and 330i sedans are $30,995 and $36,995 respectively. Prices for the 750i with its new 360 hp V8 begin at $71,195. Prices for the 2006 5 Series, which feature all-new inline six cylinder engines and available all-wheel drive start from $42,495 for the 525i. The 530xi Sports Wagon has an MSRP of $51,795. All prices include destination and handling. All of these early 2006 models will be available beginning this May.
The all-new BMW 3 Series:
The quintessential sport sedan blends cutting edge technology with remarkable value
The fifth generation BMW 3 Series will yet again improve and refine a concept BMW pioneered more than forty years ago -- the sport sedan. The new 3 Series continues to offer style and quality combined with a unique combination of performance, practicality and European luxury in a compact package.
Above all, the 3 Series is renowned for how it drives. Since the beginning, the 3 Series has always been remarkably agile and pleasurable to drive, without compromising comfort and everyday usability. Though many have tried and are still trying, no one else quite knows how to match this constellation of attributes.
The new 2006 3 Series will arrive this May with two models available, the 325i and 330i. Two inline six-cylinder engines continue a 3 Series tradition. The all-new 3.0-liter unit in the 330i offers a significant increase in performance. It is rated at 255-horsepower at 6600 rpm, a 30-horsepower increase over its predecessor and has 220 lb-ft of torque at 2750 rpm. The 325i will now also feature a new 3.0-liter engine. This engine is rated at 215-horsepower at 6250 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 2750 rpm.
In BMW's ongoing pursuit of weight reduction, this engine is the first in large-scale series production to use magnesium which, compared to aluminum, is 30 percent lighter. This engine is also the first six-cylinder to use BMW VALVETRONIC. With infinitely variable valve lift in place of the traditional throttle butterfly, this system improves both throttle response and fuel efficiency. Like previous BMW engines which have incorporated VALVETRONIC, the gains are impressive. In the case of the 330i, horsepower increases by 13%, while fuel consumption decreases by as much as 9%, depending on model. This unique technology works in tandem with BMW's double-VANOS variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust camshafts. The new 330i with manual transmission will accelerate from 0 - 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. Both models will be offered with a choice of a standard six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission.
The 3 Series will be available with all-wheel drive, features BMW's xDrive, beginning this October.
The front suspension is enhanced to include BMW's double-pivot strut design while the rear suspension features a new five-link design. BMW has been able to further capitalize on its Dynamic Stability Control with a number of new features. When brakes risk fading due to heat build up caused by hard use, Brake Fade Compensation automatically reacts by increasing the hydraulic pressure relative to pedal force. When the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal abruptly, Brake Stand-by enables DSC to recognize that sharp braking may be about to occur and applies just enough pressure in the brake system to snug up the pads against the rotors. With Brake Drying, acting on input from the rain sensor the pads are periodically brought up to the rotors - just enough to eliminate any film of water between pads and rotors, but not enough to cause a brake application. Comfort Stop ensures smooth stops by modulating the brakes as the car comes to rest. Start-Off Assistant holds the car on a hill enabling a smooth start-off from rest.
With all this technology, the MSRPs of the 325i and 330i are $30,995 and $36,995 respectively. A typically equipped 325i includes the Premium Package, an automatic transmission, leather upholstery and metallic paint. At $35,645, a typically equipped 2006 325i is only $150 more than its 2005 counterpart and has substantially more equipment. When you factor in the Xenon Adaptive Headlights which are standard on the 2006 330i, that model with Premium Package, automatic transmission and metallic paint is actually $100 less than a similarly equipped 2005 model, again with substantially more equipment.
2006 7 Series:
Design enhancements inside and out are complemented by more power for V8 models
Since its introduction in 2002, the fourth generation 7 Series has proven to be the most successful 7 Series ever. The 2006 7 Series exterior receives subtle but significant refinements. Forward of the windshield, new elements include a larger rendition of BMW's traditional "kidney" grilles; a new bumper/spoiler ensemble; new headlights and foglights; and a re-contoured hood. The rear bumper's wraparound tucks in more noticeably at the wheelwell and thus visually emphasizes a 14-mm/0.6-in. wider rear track. Both 750 models have a new standard wheel design, with seven relatively wide spokes reaching right out to the rim. The trunklid is newly shaped while retaining the original's advantages in terms of aerodynamics and cargo space; the taillights now wrap into the lid, and are accented by a slender bright strip.
The refinements are carried into the interior as well. New climate- control knobs present improved tactile feel to the user, and are trimmed in an elegant new Titanium galvanic material that also appears in other details. The iDrive system's controller has a new, handier shape and a handsome leather insert on top. Functional enhancements include the audio system's new hard controls for AM/FM and entertainment source selection; MP3 capability added to the CD changer (standard 760i/Li, optional 750i/Li); and a Bluetooth cellphone interface. Whereas previously the 7 Series came standard with an installed (but also portable) phone, owners will now select their own phone from a list of BMW-approved handheld phones and can keep up with the latest developments in this fast-moving technology while also enjoying standard hands-free calling, auto-dial functions and Voice Command convenience. Encompassing an extensive array of features and functions within its pioneering color-display- and-controller concept, iDrive has again been refined and made more user- friendly.
The new 750i and 750iL feature a new 4.8-liter VALVETRONIC V8 engine. With 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, this represents an increase of 35 horsepower and 30 lb-ft of torque over their predecessors. Although official 0 - 60 mph acceleration times are little changed at 5.8 seconds, the real story here is more urge virtually anytime the driver presses down on the accelerator pedal, especially at midrange speeds. The 6.0-liter V12 in the 760i and 760Li remains unchanged offering 438 horsepower and 444 lb-ft of torque. Both are mated to a 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission.
The price of the 750i and 750Li are $71,195 and $75,195 respectively. This represents a $600 increase over the previous models. Prices for the 2006 760i and 760Li are $110,695 and $118,095 respectively.
2006 5 Series:
New six-cylinder engines, available all-wheel drive and the return of the Sports Wagon
In only its third model year the latest 5 Series enters the 2006 model year with BMW's newest generation of inline 6-cylinder engines, available all- wheel drive and the return of the 5 Series Sports Wagon. The 5 Series shares its two 3-liter engines with the new 3 Series. The 525i/xi go from 184 to 215 horsepower while the 530i/xi go from 225 to 255 hp. All models are offered with a 6-speed manual transmission with an available 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic. The 530i is also available with a 6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox.
The 5 Series are the first passenger cars that use BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system, which has proven itself in the X3 and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. xDrive goes beyond the traditional advantages of all-wheel drive to offer the driver an even higher level of stability and traction in all driving situations. While conventional all-wheel drive only responds when the wheels are already spinning, xDrive begins to react even before wheel spin is able to build up. Via an electronically control led multiple-plate clutch, the flow of power is redistributed within milliseconds between the two axles in the interest of enhanced traction, driving stability and agility.
The 5 Series Sports Wagon returns as the 530xi. Offered only as an all- wheel drive model, the 530xi Sports Wagon offers advantages not only over the Sedans, but also over its predecessor, last offered in 2003. The 530xi abounds with rational design and thoughtful details which include a high-lift tailgate -- almost 73 in. head clearance -- with Soft Close feature. The tailgate is electrically released from the exterior or interior switch or the remote. The rear window may be opened separately, for convenient loading without opening the tailgate. A power opening and closing feature is included in the Premium Package. Wider than that in the previous Wagon, and with straight, essentially vertical sides, the cargo area offers 17.6 cu ft. of volume up to the tops of the upright rear seats and a maximum of 58.3 cu ft., rear seats folded, cargo loaded to ceiling. The cargo area includes a lockable storage space under the cargo floor, in a tray with adjustable dividers to help secure smaller objects.
Like the Sedans, the Sports Wagon comes standard with a power moonroof; however, the Wagon's is a dual-panel Panorama Moonroof, a feature also seen in the X3 and X5 Series. With its overall roof opening of 41.9 x 34.8 in., the Panorama concept gives occupants almost the feeling of being in a convertible. The power glass roof consists of two panels, both of which can be tilted up at the rear. The forward, larger panel can also be slid open; together, their glass area is almost 10 square feet. Although the glass is effectively tinted, there is also a power-operated interior shade; a wind deflector rises at the front of the opening to reduce wind buffeting when panels are open. All motions have 1-touch operation, including that of the interior shade.
In addition to other enhancements, Servotronic vehicle-speed sensitive power steering is standard on all models and Adaptive Xenon Headlights are standard on 530i/xi models.
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Prices for the 525i and 530i Sedans are $42,495 and $47,195 respectively. For the all-wheel drive Sedans, the MSRPs are $44,695 for the 525xi and $49,395 for the 530xi. The all-wheel drive 530xi Sports Wagon has an MSRP of $51,795.
BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the ROLLS-ROYCE brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 Roadster and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 340 BMW passenger car centers, 327 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 148 BMW motorcycle retailers, 80 MINI passenger car dealers, and 25 ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
Posted by Frank at 01:53 PM | Comments (0)
Shelby GT500 Mustang
This car won the big buzz of the day award. Auto industry elder statesman Carroll Shelby was on hand, and got mobbed for photos, interviews -- and an endless string of autograph requests.
Part of the excitement for the car came from the sensation that it was a well-earned victory lap for Ford, which is enjoying feverish demand for its main line Mustangs.
This limited production model will sell for about $40,000, though street values for the approximately 7,500 cars the company will manufacture will send that number through the roof. Ford's press release, and more photos after the jump.
Carroll Shelby Teams With Ford to Introduce Ford Shelby GT500 Concept at New York Auto Show
Concept Is First Shelby-Branded Ford Mustang to Appear in 35 Years
LOS ANGELES, March 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Carroll Shelby International, Inc. , announced today that Carroll Shelby, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Ford Motor Company, under license with Carroll Shelby Licensing, Inc., have teamed up to create the first Shelby-branded Mustang in 35 years -- the Ford SVT Shelby GT500 Concept. Unveiled today at the Greater New York Auto Show, this unmistakably Shelby-inspired performance powerhouse recreates the iconic image and legendary dominance of the original Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s.
"We're excited to see history repeat itself with the introduction of the new Shelby GT500 Concept," says John Luft, President of Carroll Shelby Licensing. "This car will put a new generation of Shelby enthusiasts on the road."
Powered by a 5.4-liter, 32-valve Ford V8 equipped with a Roots-type supercharger, the Shelby GT500 Concept delivers more than 450 horsepower and 450 lb ft of torque, making it the most powerful production Mustang ever produced. Equipped with a heavy-duty T-56 6-speed manual gearbox to put all of that power to the pavement, and revised shocks, springs and upgraded stabilizer bars front and rear to maximize road-holding and control, the Shelby GT500 Concept combines the performance, handling and on-road excitement of its storied predecessor.
"I've worked closely with Ford and its Special Vehicle Team (SVT) to reshape the modern muscle car landscape with what I'd have to call the Ultimate Mustang," says Carroll Shelby. "We wanted to create a world-class performance concept, true to the spirit of my original GT500, with an acclaimed chassis engineered to handle all the horsepower we could find. I think you'll agree we hit the target."
Outfitted in trademark "SVT Red" with dual Le Mans-style white racing stripes running nose to tail, the Shelby GT500 Concept is dominated by an impressive functional hood scoop, front and rear underbody aerodynamic treatments, including a reworked front fascia with functional air splitter and a rear spoiler reminiscent of a classic GT500. Revised headlight insets provide an aggressive look and symmetrical upper and lower grilles deliver that vintage Shelby design cue. Substantial 19-inch wheels and tires surrounding race-inspired cross-drilled Brembo brakes complete the package.
Inside, it's a purposeful, driver-focused cockpit, with luxurious black leather wrapping the interior from dash to stern, accented with red leather seat and door accents, logo-embroidered seatbacks, floormats and signature white performance gauges.
Expected to retail for around $40,000 when the production version goes on sale in 2006, the Ford Shelby GT500 is poised to launch a new era of sporty performance punctuated by Ford muscle and Carroll Shelby's legendary engineering prowess.
About Carroll Shelby International, Inc.
Carroll Shelby International, Inc. is the parent company of Shelby Automobiles and Carroll Shelby Licensing.
Shelby Automobiles Inc. is manufacturing high performance Shelby vehicles under the guidance of the legendary Carroll Shelby and will be involved in prototype manufacturing, design and engineering projects; and plans to increase production and availability of these Shelby products through an expanded dealer network and direct sales under a license agreement with Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc. For more information, call 702/325-4851 or visit the company's web site at www.shelbyautos.com.
Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc., founded in 1988, is the exclusive holder of automotive manufacturer and entrepreneur Carroll Shelby's trademarks and vehicle design rights, which include some of the world's most famous muscle cars and high-performance vehicles, including the car that brought home to the U.S. its first and only FIA World Manufacturers Championship in 1965, the famous Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe. It also holds trademark rights for Shelby-branded apparel, accessories and collectibles. For additional information about the company or licensing opportunities, call (310) 914-1843, or fax (310) 914-1853 or write to Carroll Shelby Licensing, Inc., 11150 West Olympic Boulevard, Suite 1050, Los Angeles, CA 90064 or visit www.carrollshelbyinternational.com or www.carrollshelby.com.
Certain statements in this news release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of Rule 175 under the Securities Act of 1933 and Rule 3b-6 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and are subject to the safe harbor created by those rules. All statements, other than statements of fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding potential future plans and objectives of the company, are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.
Posted by Frank at 01:29 PM | Comments (0)
March 23, 2005
GM Prez Gets Right Down to It
In opening remarks at the New York Auto Show, GM President Gary Cowger began with, "it was a tough week for us."
The scuttlebutt around the buffet line was that Cowger would either skirt the issue of GM's bad news week, or invite questions from a Gannonesque homer. He did neither. While acknowledging GM's problems, he said the company would not dwell on them, "but concentrate on how to overcome" them.
Chief among GM's tasks is communicating their brand value to consumers, Cowger said. After showing an almost kitschy ad for a 1964 Buick LeSabre to illustrate the way things used to be, Cowger said that with the extinction of the monolithic mass market all automakers now have to reach a "mosaic of mini-markets."
Besides a new ad campaign intended to make people aware of "the things only GM can do," Cowger also said GM is launching a training program in New York, aimed at bringing Spanish speaking people into the sales force. The Hispanic market is growing to over $900 billion in spending power and GM's B.E.S.T. [Bi-lingual Employment Sales Training] program hopes to add over 100 spanish speaking sales personnel.
Posted by Frank at 10:08 AM | Comments (0)
New Yawk City!
We got here a day early for the NY Auto Show and took in a sightseeing cruise around the city. The car wranglers, show staff and convention center folks were unloading and detailing cars, and getting things in place around the clock. If you're half as excited as we are -- woo-hoo!
Here is a list of press conferences for March 23, 2005:
8:00am Opening Breakfast, w/GM President
10:20am - 10:45am Mercedes-Benz
10:50am - 11:10am BMW
11:20am - 11:45am Chrysler Group
12:00n - 12:50pm Lexus
1:00pm - 1:25pm Ford
1:30pm - 1:50pm Bentley
2:00pm - 2:20pm Ferrari Maserati
2:25pm - 2:50pm General Motors
3:00pm - 3:30pm Nissan
Posted by Frank at 06:47 AM | Comments (0)
March 21, 2005
Subaru. Ad. Campaign.
Subaru has a new ad campaign titled: Think. Feel. Drive.
What a great website -- in itself -- and in terms of integration with the recently revamped Subaru.com. The four-speed shifter pictured here acts as a navigation platform for the "Read it," section of the site, complete with whooshy sound effects.
There are two other sections, "See it," which is a sharply produced video section. The third section, "Experience it," acts as the bridge between this general marketing effort and the new Subaru.com -- creating a unique, unified web campaign that exploits the best design while still accomplishing its mission.
If there are marketing awards for interactive advertising production, Subaru's team of DDB New York should win hands down in the auto category.
Because it also accomplishes the primary goal of all advertising -- it gets you excited enough about the brand to want to participate. Which means buying a Subaru, of course. [Check out the Notebook's Outback review.]
There's more to the new campaign besides the website -- a pair of 30-second TV spots, titled "Two Wheels" and "Road Grip," feature the Legacy and Outback. There is also a coordinated print campaign to compliment the vehicle promotion and the new three-word mantra.
Posted by Frank at 11:54 PM | Comments (0)
And the Lowlife Award of the Week Goes to ...
... Greg Grams, president of the Volo Auto Museum in Illinois.
This bloodsucker paid PR Newswire to distribute a press release with the following title:
John Z. DeLorean's Death Boosting Prices on GTOs and DeLoreans
The entire purpose of the news release [they cost about $500 per story] is to draw attention to Grams' museum, which showcases and sells cars such as the Pontiac GTO and DeLorean sports car, both of which Mr. DeLorean brought to market.
Grams, the heart-broken money changer, observes that his museum has "sold three GTOs in the last four days, including a 1969 GTO convertible for over $100,000," according to the release.
The sell-up began when "DeLorean became terminally ill, news spread fast among the collector-car market, Grams said."
And he expects prices of the DMC gull-wings, "to increase in the next few days," the release continues, directing readers to the museum's website, where they can view current prices. And bid them up in the grave dancing phenomenon that Grams is trying to squeeze as much juice out of as he possibly can.
Not only does this dirtbag revel in DeLorean's death, what's even creepier is the release alludes to the expected demise of a living automotive icon, Carroll Shelby.
Here's a direct quote from the release:
Shelby, who is 82 and received a heart transplant in 1990, will host a car show at the museum on May 28, 2005. The museum was in preliminary talks with DeLorean to do the same in 2006.
The implication of course is that Shelby is even older than DeLorean, who was 80 when he died, and if the company's luck in scheduling holds out, maybe he'll die before he gets a chance to appear at the museum. At least in corporeal form.
Just in case anybody thinks I'm over-reacting, here's the complete release, with the promotional contact info redacted:
John Z. DeLorean's Death Boosting Prices on GTOs and DeLoreans
Monday March 21, 4:05 pm ET
VOLO, Ill., March 21 /PRNewswire/ -- The market for the classic Pontiac GTO and the DeLorean Motor Cars gull-wing coupe already are feeling the effects of John Z. DeLorean's death, according to the Volo Auto Museum.
DeLorean suffered a stroke Thursday, March 17 and died late Saturday, March 19. He was 80.
The museum, 27582 W. Volo Village Road, Volo, IL, is home to the world's largest collection of muscle cars, including the cars DeLorean is most famous for designing and engineering -- the 1964 Pontiac GTO, considered by most experts to be the first muscle car, the 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge and the DMC gull-wing coupe driven by Michael J. Fox in "Back to the Future II."
"I consider John DeLorean the father of the muscle car," Museum President Greg Grams said. "He was an artist, and the value of his work will increase with his passing just like Picasso, Rembrandt or any other artist."
In addition to displaying antique, muscle and famous Hollywood cars, the museum sells about 80 classic cars each month. When DeLorean became terminally ill, news spread fast among the collector-car market, Grams said.
The museum has sold three GTOs in the last four days, including a 1969 GTO convertible for over $100,000. Grams said the price of DMC gull-wings, which have sold for $15,000-$20,000 since 1983, also are likely to increase in the next few days. The museum's most current GTO prices are available at http://.
"It is a phenomenon we have never experienced," said Grams, who has owned the museum since 1960. "It is impossible to tell at this point where these prices will top out."
Along with Carroll Shelby, creator of the Shelby Mustang, and a handful of others, DeLorean revolutionized the automotive world in the 1960s by taking seriously the truism "Win on Sunday, sell on Monday."
Shelby, who is 82 and received a heart transplant in 1990, will host a car show at the museum on May 28, 2005. The museum was in preliminary talks with DeLorean to do the same in 2006.
"Unfortunately for us, John ran out of time," Grams said. "We are fast approaching the end of an era."
The Volo Auto Museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $7.95. Special rates are available for children, seniors, veterans and active military.
Posted by Frank at 11:18 PM | Comments (0)
DCX Minivans Top Gov't Crash Test Ratings
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Click on the pic to watch a crash test video. |
Conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA] the crash tests measure the probability of injury in the case of front and side-impact crashes. Complete results can be found here.
NHTSA's rating system is setup as follows: a five-star rating equates to a 10% or less chance of serious injury, four-stars means an 11% to 20% ch