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June 30, 2006

Chrysler Unveils Supersized Employee Pricing Program

In a heavy duty web-based presentation this morning DaimlerChrysler used their top three corporate officers to tout an employee pricing program that includes:

- 0% financing.
- Employee-grade rebates/pricing.
- 30-day no hassle return policy.

In addition, Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep dealers will stay open until midnight from July 1-5 to push the deals.

Details will be available at Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and the Ask Dr. Z websites.

Posted by Frank at 11:00 AM | Comments (0)

Honda's Retail Fuel Cell Lease Reaches One Year

The Spallino family of Los Angeles has been driving the $1 million Honda FCX fuel cell vehicle for one year, with another year to go on their "lease." [Obviously, the family isn't paying full price.]

The Spallino's use the FCX for everyday activities, having logged several thousand miles, largely on trips to the supermarket, soccer practices and long work commutes. Twelve months since the beginning of the lease, the FCX has met the driving needs of the family, while providing valuable, real-world feedback to Honda on the expectations and requirements needed for the technology to move forward. Acting as impromptu fuel cell vehicle educators, the family is no stranger to being stopped by the public asking about their experiences or to ask for a ride in the car of the future.

"I am surprised at the amount of attention and rubbernecking received while driving the FCX," said Jon Spallino, the first individual fuel cell vehicle retail customer in the world. "Despite being a developing technology, we have not suffered from any reliability issues and the car has all the comforts and conveniences we need."

"The lease of the Honda FCX to the Spallino family demonstrates the real-world viability of fuel cell vehicle technology and its ability to meet the needs of a family on an ongoing basis," said Gunnar Lindstrom, senior manager of Alternative Fuels Sales and Marketing. "Honda will continue to evolve and refine hydrogen vehicle technology based on feedback from real world customers, and we'll see that expressed in future models"

The Spallino family, living in the Los Angeles area, is the first to begin utilizing California's first hydrogen stations that are part of a planned statewide network of refueling stations know as the "Hydrogen Highway". Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger made the commitment to build the Hydrogen Highway in April 2005, creating a public and private partnership to build California's Hydrogen Highway by 2010.

Posted by Frank at 10:40 AM | Comments (0)

Chrysler Launches Ask Dr. Z Website

Chrysler has unveiled an interactive Web site called Ask Dr. Z.com, as part of a new marketing campaign. The site's name and persona is based on Dieter Zetsche, who used to be in charge of Chrysler and has since been promoted to DaimlerChrysler, the parent company.

Customers can go on askdrz.com to find out about Chrysler vehicles and e-mail questions to Zetsche, who is featured in a series of humorous TV commercials touting the benefits of Chrysler's ties to its German parent company.

"The whole campaign is based on Ask Dr. Z.com," said spokesman Jason Vines. On the Ask Dr. Z Web site, consumers can expect to find company information including possibly sweepstakes programs. Chrysler will assign a team of employees to answer questions, Vines said.

The Web site will be about "all of our programs," Vines said. "There will be information about our cause on the Web site and it will be very interactive."

Posted by Frank at 10:25 AM | Comments (0)

The 2007, All-New Supercharged Jaguar XKR Coupe and Convertible

Jaguar's new supercharged sports cars -- the 2007 Jaguar XKR Coupe and Convertible -- will make their global debut at the 2006 London Motor Show on July 18, 2006.

Designed in parallel with the naturally aspirated 2007 XK Coupe and Convertible, the new supercharged XKR makes intelligent use of practical, modern technology such as its industry-leading aluminum monocoque body structure. In fact, the new XKRs' aluminum chassis are significantly lighter and stiffer in both Coupe and Convertible form than the steel counterparts they replace.

A 420bhp, 4.2-liter supercharged V8 engine makes the Jaguar XKR capable of rapid 0-60 mph performance in just 4.9 seconds (XKR Coupe) and produces an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Both XKR Coupe and Convertible exhibit enhanced performance styling cues such as a sportier new grille and front bumper design, a vented hood and distinctive aluminum-effect side power vents. Its unique option 19- or 20-inch alloy wheel designs and standard quad-exhaust system also add to its overall presence.

"The new supercharged XKR captures perfectly the essence of what makes a Jaguar XK so special," commented Bibie Boerio, Jaguar Cars managing director. "It is a perfect combination of refined Grand Tourer and serious performance sports car that delivers a truly rewarding and exhilarating driving experience."

Building on the excellence of the 2007 XKs introduced in 2005, the 2007 XKR is the epitome of a contemporary sports car and perfectly illustrates Jaguar's philosophy of building beautiful, fast cars. It combines beauty with power, and style with dynamism to deliver a world-class performance automobile.

All-new 2007 Jaguar XKR At-A-Glance Highlights:

* New supercharged Jaguar XK sports car - the XKR, available as a Coupe or Convertible

* All the attractions and attributes of the XK, but amplified in the 'R' to complement the extra power and performance

* 4.2-liter, supercharged V8 engine developing 420bhp and 413 lb.-ft. (560Nm) of torque

* 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.9 seconds and 155 mph (electronically limited) top speed

* All-aluminum construction means a lighter, stiffer vehicle, which improves handling and agility.

* Uprated springs and dampers, and recalibrated Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) system for enhanced ride and handling

* Class-leading six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel- mounted shift paddles for ultra-quick gear shifts in milliseconds

* Active Exhaust System to ensure cruising speed refinement, but purposeful V8 roar under hard acceleration

* Subtle XKR exterior styling enhancements include a sportier grille and front bumper design, vented hood, unique aluminum-effect side power vents and new wheel designs

* Enhanced interior includes unique aluminum 'weave' design on the fascia (polished burl walnut is optional at no extra cost) and XKR sports seats

* Intuitive controls and driver-focused technologies are available -- including Keyless Entry, Keyless Start, advanced Touchscreen and Active Front Lighting

Posted by Frank at 10:20 AM | Comments (0)

BMW Sponsors TED, a Symposium for Ideas

BMW has sponsored the video production of talks from the latest TED conference [that's Technology, Entertainment, Design] where "leading thinkers and doers gather for inspiration."

By going to this page, you can watch former Vice President Al Gore, Sir Ken Robinson, Tony Robbins, Majora Carter, David Pogue and others do their shtick.

The BMW sponsorship is a tie-in to their Ideas are Everything marketing concept, which you can check out here.

Posted by Frank at 09:30 AM | Comments (0)

Audi R10 -- Made by Lego Artist Todd Osborn

Michigan artist Todd Osborn used 20,000 Lego blocks to build this image of the Audi R10 diesel Le Mans car.

You can watch the videotaped process of the sculpture being turned into a photograph here.

You can read the latest edition of Winding Road magazine, here.

Posted by Frank at 09:15 AM | Comments (0)

Exotic Cars Reviewed -- By Their Owners!

Now this is a car site that offers something different from the rest of the pack. Auto-journals is an online publication that features reviews and photography of exotic and performance vehicles as provided by their owners.

Quality is not sacrificed as there is a team of folks behind the site making things look good, so it's not a load of gibberish, obscure acronyms or endless punctuation marks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We like the new Lamborghini Gallardo review by Mike Emerton of Staffordshire, because of this line: "It doesn't require the spinal flexibility of a Jamaican limbo champion to get in and out of."

Posted by Frank at 09:02 AM | Comments (0)

Find Alternative Fuel Stations With MapMuse

The folks at interactive mapping service MapMuse have compiled a series of national maps for finding alt-fuel stations, such as E85, Biodiesel, hydrogen and even electric depots.

Thanks to the collaborative nature of the Internet, users can help update these lists, and they are indeed handy for folks who may be going on road trips with their alt-fuel buggies. Though it seems the ethanol people do a lot of driving in the Midwest.

Click here for the MapMuse automotive page, here for the Ethanol E85 map and here for the Hydrogen map.

Posted by Frank at 08:36 AM | Comments (0)

Dodge to Announce Challenger Production!

Chrysler is expected to announce production plans today for the new Dodge Challenger coupe styled and named after the automaker's 1970s muscle car, The Wall Street Journal said.

The V8-powered Challenger won't be sold until next year, but Chrysler will promote the car this summer to try to pull customers into showrooms, the newspaper said, citing people familiar with the company's plans.

Chrysler's announcement of the new Challenger tomorrow at a Nascar race in Daytona Beach, Florida, was moved forward by several months in hopes it will create some buzz for the automaker, the newspaper's sources said.

Posted by Frank at 07:49 AM | Comments (0)

BMW Takes a Swing at Golf Sponsorship

BMW CEO Tom Purves has announced a six-year deal with the PGA Tour and the Western Golf Association that will create the BMW Championship starting in 2007.

The BMW Championship will be the third of four PGA Tour playoff tournaments under the organization's new format, which starts the week of Sept. 3 at Chicago's Cog Hill & Country Club.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 07:42 AM | Comments (0)

Pontiac Solstice GXP Pricing

New Turbocharged Roadster to Sell for Under $26K

Pontiac has announced that the turbocharged 2007 Solstice GXP will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $25,995, including a $600 destination charge. The 260-horsepower roadster arrives in Pontiac dealerships this fall.

Powered by GM's new direct injection, turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec engine, the Solstice GXP adds a 47 percent boost of power to augment the road-gripping performance and seductive styling already available in the base model roadster.

"The passion customers have for the Solstice continues to amaze us and we have been sold out of the 2006 models for the past couple of months," said Mark-Hans Richer, Pontiac marketing director. "There's already a waiting list for the 2007 models, so we believe the GXP will only extend the Solstice's position as the top-selling roadster in the U.S., proving that a domestic car can retake a segment previously dominated by imports."

Model year to date through May, Pontiac has sold 15,145 Solstices, outselling the closest competitor in the segment by more than 2,600 units. Solstice remains one of the industry's hottest selling cars, contributing to a 20 percent increase in Pontiac showroom traffic since the beginning of the year and double digit percent sales gains in key coastal markets.

Posted by Frank at 07:38 AM | Comments (0)

Utah Highway Patrol Chief Cited for DUI

SALT LAKE CITY - The commander of the Utah Highway Patrol's drunken driving unit has been cited for driving under the influence of alcohol after crashing his cruiser into a concrete barrier, authorities said Thursday.

Lt. Fred Swain veered off the shoulder of a highway in Draper early last Friday, overcorrected and hit the barrier that separates the lanes, Lt. Doug McCleve said.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 06:15 AM | Comments (0)

Woman Auctions Herself And Her Ferrari

BERLIN (Reuters) - A woman living in Germany is auctioning off her red Ferrari Enzo sports car and including a little extra in the package -- herself.

The 26-year-old has invited bids on Internet auction site ebay starting at 1.25 million euros ($1.6 million). She said she was rich herself, liked her car and was looking for a man who could foot the bill for such a luxury.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 06:14 AM | Comments (0)

June 29, 2006

Court Upholds Regional Recall Guidelines

A federal appeals court has given its backing to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration guidelines that permit automakers to order some vehicle recalls by region, rather than on a nationwide basis. Recalls for certain vehicle defects, including those triggered by heat or snow, can be ordered on a regional basis, without notifying car owners in unaffected areas of the U.S.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:47 PM | Comments (0)

Motorists Taking Alternative Fuels Seriously

The states of Utah and California offer drivers the most extensive compressed natural gas infrastructures in the nation, and with gasoline prices on the rise, more and more drivers are taking advantage. According to one poll of Utah drivers, more than 50% have changed their driving habits as a result of higher petroleum prices.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:46 PM | Comments (0)

Will U.S. Buyers Drive Chinese Nameplate Cars?

Auto dealers who import Chinese-built cars have some hurdles to face in terms of drivers' perceptions. According to an Autobytel.com survey, 42% of U.S. car shoppers said they would "seriously" consider purchasing an Chinese-built car, but 73% reported negative preconceptions about safety, quality and style.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:37 PM | Comments (0)

You Really Are What You Drive - Study

You can accurately predict someone's ride from their face and body posture, according to a new survey by psychologists at Julius-Maximilians University in Wurzburg, Germany. The study found that participants could correctly link photographs of male and female drivers to their cars nearly 70% of the time.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:28 PM | Comments (0)

GM Brings Back Zero Percent Financing

DETROIT - General Motors Corp. will offer zero percent financing for up to six years on many of its cars and trucks as it tries to clear inventory off lots in preparation for the new model year.

Company officials said the financing would be offered on Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac and GMC models during a sale that begins Thursday, June 29 and ends July 5.

Posted by Frank at 05:24 PM | Comments (0)

Eco-friendly Sports Car

With $40 million from some big-name investors, Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning and their Tesla Motors Inc. are planning on launching the first model of their electric sports car in 2007. The car, with most of its details being kept under wraps, is charged with lithium-ion batteries and can be plugged into any electrical outlet.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:21 PM | Comments (0)

Win a MINI Cooper by Naming the Bear

From July 1 to September 30, you can enter a contest to win a free 2006 MINI Cooper, by naming the pictured polar bear, the mascot for Lustra Bear car cleaning products.

Go to http://www.lustrabear.com/.

Posted by Frank at 11:43 AM | Comments (0)

Smart Vehicles Hit U.S. Shores in 2008

Dieter Zetsche, CEO of DaimlerChrysler has announced Smart cars will enter the U.S. market beginning in 2008.

Three models will be available, all based on the current Smart fortwo. The U.S.A., as the world's largest automotive market, will be the 37th market for smart.

Zetsche said, “Following the success of the Smart fortwo in our first North American market, Canada, and the increasing demand for affordable and fuel efficient small cars in the U.S.A., we are now bringing this new kind of mobility to U.S. cities. The time has never been better for this – and I am convinced that the smart fortwo as an innovative, ecological and agile city car will soon become just as familiar a sight on the streets of New York, Miami or Seattle, as it is today in Rome, Berlin or Paris."

Like its predecessor, the Smart fortwo successor will have all the important features that make customers feel safer and more comfortable. As part of the Mercedes Car Group, the smart vehicle will be equipped with unique technology, including the “hard shell” tridion safety cell, ESP and various airbag systems.

This guy thinks they'll have a hard time selling them because they're too small, and I say wait until people actually see and sit in these things, they're toys.

Posted by Frank at 11:25 AM | Comments (0)

Gas at $2.87 a Gallon - And Climbing?!?

The average consumer paid $2.87 per gallon on average for an average gallon of gas yesterday, according to AAA.

And if that isn't happy enough news for you, here are eight reasons why gas prices might go even higher

Posted by Frank at 11:20 AM | Comments (0)

Ford Reneges on Hybrid Car Promise

Ford Motor Co. Chairman and CEO Bill Ford Jr. is backing away from his much-publicized commitment to produce 250,000 hybrid vehicles a year by the end of the decade, saying the company intends to pursue a broader environmental strategy that focuses more on other alternative-fuel vehicles.

With timing perhaps intended to blunt criticism of the move, Bill Ford announced the strategic shift in an e-mail to employees Wednesday, the same day he and the CEOs of General Motors Corp. and DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group sent a letter to Congress promising to double their annual production of alternative-fuel vehicles to 2 million by 2010.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 11:17 AM | Comments (0)

Porsche Tops J.D. Power APEAL Study

Porsche AG and other high-end auto brands performed best in the annual J.D. Power and Associates study of satisfaction after 90 days of ownership, but domestic companies showed improvement.

Porsche topped J.D. Power's 11th-annual survey that measures performance, layout appeal and customer satisfaction with cars three months after they were driven off lots.

Lincoln ranked 11th, highest among the domestic nameplates, and two Ford Motor Co. cars were the best in their classes.

The Ford Mustang topped the midsize sporty car category, while the Ford Fusion won the midsize car class.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 11:14 AM | Comments (0)

Indiana Gets New Honda Manufacturing Plant

$550 million plant to employ 2,000 and begin production in 2008

GREENSBURG, Ind. -- Honda has announced plans to build a $550 million automobile plant on a 1,700-acre tract in Decatur County, Indiana, near Greensburg, 50 miles southeast of Indianapolis. The plant will begin mass production of fuel efficient 4-cylinder vehicles in fall 2008, with an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles and employment of 2,000 associates.

The new Indiana plant, Honda's sixth auto plant and 14th major plant overall in North America, will help boost Honda's total North American auto production capacity from 1.4 million units to more than 1.6 million units in 2008, grow Honda's employment in North America to more than 37,000 associates and increase North American capital investment to more than $9 billion.

"Honda's success in America has been based on our strong commitment to our customers," said Koichi Kondo, president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and chief operating officer of Honda's North America Region operations. "We believe the great state of Indiana has what we need to continue this success -- an outstanding community of people, excellent transportation systems, and the necessary infrastructure to support industry. It is an ideal location in the Midwest both for our network of parts suppliers and as a central location for all of our customers across the country."

Posted by Frank at 11:10 AM | Comments (0)

NYC To Double Red Light Cameras

Red light means stop. Green light means go. And if you forget that basic maxim on the streets of New York, prepare to smile for the red-light cameras.

The city is about to get approval to double the number of red-light cameras in the five boroughs to 100 from 50.

The move will generate an additional $13 million a year for the Big Apple.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 10:59 AM | Comments (0)

Bill Ford: Bankruptcy Not an Option

FRANKFURT - Ford Motor Co faces stronger headwinds than it anticipated when launching a turnaround plan but has ruled out seeking court protection from creditors, its chief executive was quoted as saying in the Wall Street Journal on Thursday.

In an interview with the newspaper Bill Ford dismissed any talk of bankruptcy being a threat, saying “it’s not an option”.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 10:57 AM | Comments (0)

California Fastracking FasTrak

The state of California is moving to sell FasTrak transponders in retail stores, to increase the percentage of drivers who use the automated toll-pay system to 70%.

Vehicles with FasTrak systems installed get through toll lanes threre times faster than motorists paying cash, and California is experimenting with ways to get vehicles through the toll collection portals even faster.

FasTrak works by charging a pre-paid credit account tied to the vehicle to pay the tolls automatically.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 10:53 AM | Comments (0)

Grand Theft Automaker Plays Truth is Stranger than Fiction Game

Take-Two, the company that publishes the hit video game franchise Grand Theft Auto has received subpoenas from the Manhattan district attorney, as part of an investigation into criminal activity that have caused the firm's shares to take a hit.

The company said the inquiries pertained to its inclusion of hidden sexually explicit material in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, and to many business and accounting practices dating back to 2001.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 10:48 AM | Comments (0)

The Ultimate Beater Car

Harry Ettling's 1982 Honda Civic has endured a major accident, more than 170,000 miles of wear and even a riot, but the New Yorker still won't get rid of it.

The New York Daily News reports that Ettling has repaired damage to the car from a variety of sources over the years, yet won't rid himself of the clunker as long as it still runs.

"People actually recognize me in other sections of town because of the car," Ettling told the Daily News. "The reactions range from laughter to anger to kindred spirits giving me the thumbs up, and everything in between."

The most notable damage occurred when the car was flipped over by rioters during the 1992 Washington Heights riot.

"When the car got turned upside down, that was really the beginning of Harry's car as we know it today," Steve Alcott, Ettling's neighbor in the Inwood area of Manhattan, said. "The guys in this neighborhood are really into their cars, and can't believe someone would drive something that looks like that. But it's a great car -- it'll get you where you're going. And junk is in the eye of the beholder."

Link.

Though it ran in the NYDN, the article was written by Josh Max, a man-about town auto journalist, musician and raconteur -- check out his site, http://www.joshmax.com/.

Posted by Frank at 10:36 AM | Comments (0)

U.S. Emits Half of Car-Caused Greenhouse Gas

American cars and pickup trucks are responsible for nearly half of the greenhouse gases emitted by automobiles globally, even though the nation's vehicles make up just 30% of the nearly 700 million cars in use, according to a new report by Environmental Defense.

Cars in the U.S. are driven more miles, face lower fuel economy standards and use fuel with more carbon than many of those driven in other countries, the authors found. According to the report by the environmental group, due out today, U.S. cars and light trucks were driven 2.6 trillion miles in 2004, equal to driving back and forth to Pluto more than 470 times.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 10:34 AM | Comments (0)

Toyota Chairman Resigns

Hiroshi Okuda stepped down last week as chairman of Toyota, after presiding over the company's transformation into the world's number two automaker. Okuda joined Toyota in 1955, rising to president in 1995 and chairman in 1999.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 07:40 AM | Comments (0)

June 19, 2006

Mazda5, the Test Drive

The Mazda5 is such an awesome vehicle, in both conception and execution, that it should win multiple awards.

The only problem we see is -- what category would it qualify for?

That's because the Mazda5 is a true one-of-a-kind crossover vehicle. It combines the driving characteristics of a hatchback, with the dual sliding doors and three rows of seating of a minivan, with the stylishness of a small SUV.

We took to referring to it, when people asked "what that car was," as a mini minivan, because the dual sliding doors are such a dominant feature. Equipped with a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder that produces 157 horsepower, we took the Mazda5 on a grueling journey up and down the "hills" of West Virginia, fully loaded with cargo, and the "car" performed admirably, never leaving us feeling like we were crawling uphill or in danger of losing maneuverability.

That leg of the journey was with the second and third rows of seats folded flat, and the Mazda5 hauled as much as just about any SUV we've driven.

One of the many cool features of the Mazda5 is the way the second row seats slide forward to allow access to the third row, which you might not think would be convenient given the vehicle's relatively smaller than full-size minivan architecture.

Because the vehicle is sort of a plus-sized hatchback [that hyrid category again] it gets GREAT gas mileage, it's rated 21 mpg in the city and 26 highway, but we averaged 29 mile sper gallon on a long haul, with about 25% city miles in the mix.

And driving it is a pleasure because even though it has all that functionality, there is also a rear hatch, throughout all the running around it felt like driving either a large hatchback or small wagon.

We think the Mazda5 is well-suited for urban types who want the function of a minivan without the stigma or the footprint, for sporty and outdoorsy types who want to haul gear and comrades, for young marrieds with their first kid or even retirees with an active lifestyle that includes grandkiddies.

The Mazda5 comes in two trim levels, the Sport starting at $17,995, that comes with 17-inch wheels, seating for six and standard Side-impact air bags and side air curtains. The Touring model includes all those features, starting at $19,510 and adds automatic climate control, a 6-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer, power sliding glass sunroof and fog lights, side sills and rear spoiler.

For a free price quote on the Mazda5 click here.

Posted by Frank at 03:45 AM | Comments (0)

Tennessee on Short List for New Toyota Plant

The Wall St. Journal is reporting that Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen said Toyota Motor Corp. is looking at two sites in his state to build their eighth North American vehicle assembly plant.

Tennessee is proposing two sites to Toyota, one near Chattanooga in eastern Tennessee, the other near Alamo in western Tennessee.

Approximately half a dozen states are competing to win Toyota's bid for the eigth plant.

Posted by Frank at 03:22 AM | Comments (0)

GM Leads Quality Survey Index Among New Owners

General Motors' vehicles captured five awards from new owners assessing the quality of their vehicles, according to a new survey published by Strategic Visions. The Chevy HHR won its small multi-function category, the Saturn Vue won small SUV, the Chevy Silverado won heavy duty pickup and the Corvette won two separate categories.

Toyota came in second with four wins, BMW and Honda three each; Chrysler Group had two. BMW repeated as the top scoring brand, the seventh time in eight years, and Volkswagen reemerged as the best full-line. Ford’s only win was significant, as its much-heralded Fusion took top honors in the medium car category.

Link to full PDF release.

Posted by Frank at 03:05 AM | Comments (0)

Toyota Speeds Cow Manure to Compost Cycle With Secret Ingredient

Toyota has developed a new process that speeds up the composting of cow manure, that dramatically reduces the amount of nitrous oxide, methane and other greenhouse gases released.

A new compound cuts the amount of time it takes to convert cow dung into a high-quality compost from between 90 and 180 days to 45 days, and also cuts the odours released by decomposing cow manure.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 03:00 AM | Comments (0)

Let's Be Blunt: All Gas Saving Devices, Powders, Additives, Gizmos are Scams

We were recently approached by a company hustling some sooper-dooper gas additive that allegedly improved mileage 25% and could we write them up, please?

No. We couldn't and didn't. Because they are all scams, every single one of them. The only way to get better gas mileage is to drive the speed limit, keep your car tuned and your tires inflated properly.

This article talks about one of the most recent scams, and here is a link to a Federal Trade Commission report, "Gas-Saving" Products: Fact or Fuelishness? that gives the straight dope.

Posted by Frank at 02:49 AM | Comments (0)

Is There a Ford F-150 Diesel in the Future?

Autmotive News is citing industry sources that Ford is developing a V-8 diesel engine to be mated to the F-150 pickup later this decade. The new diesel engine is still in the planning process, but suppliers and industry sources say Ford is well along in the planning process.

Posted by Frank at 02:44 AM | Comments (0)

Smart Cars Are Already Being Sold in the United States, Stealthily

This article talks about Zap, the Cali company that is importing Smart cars in dribs and drabs while the rest of the country waits to see if Mercedes is actually going to bring them here or not.

On that count, my vote is to open no more than 50 Smart car dealerships in the U.S., and only in major cities, in the same way that movies are "platformed" in choice locations to build buzz. Let's face it, the Smart car is no MINI and if Mercedes tries to mass market them they will fail miserably, period.

The problem I have with this SF Chron article on the topic is that it tries to make the oh so tired observation that celebrities driving Smart cars will make them cool. The same celebrities that drive Priuses and fly in chartered jets.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 02:34 AM | Comments (0)

Volkswagen's Gypsy Cab Project - Another Online Marketing Triumph

Volkswagen is on a roll with the marketing genius, and the kind that helps sell cars not just win useless awards.

The latest we've come across is the Gypsy Cab Project where a dude from Denver is driving a specially-marked Rabbit around NYC picking up free fares and recording the interactions on tape.

The goal is to hit 100 fares in 14 days, and as of this writing, 11 episodes have been posted. We'll be watching to the end, unless of course, it's like a real cab driving experience and Denver dude gets popped in the back of the head for his jack.

http://www.gypsycabproject.com/

Posted by Frank at 02:26 AM | Comments (0)

Chevy Impala, Toyota Avalon Top Side Crash Test Results

ARLINGTON, VA — The redesigned Chevrolet Impala and Toyota Avalon, both equipped with standard side airbags, earn top ratings of good in side crash tests that simulate an impact from an SUV or pickup truck. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently conducted side tests of eight large family cars. The Buick Lucerne and Hyundai Azera, also equipped with standard side airbags, earn the second highest rating of acceptable.

The Buick LaCrosse with standard side airbags is rated marginal, and so is the Chrysler 300 equipped with optional side airbags. The 300, Ford Five Hundred, and Ford Crown Victoria, all tested without their optional side airbags, are rated poor for side impact protection. (Note: The Ford Five Hundred with optional side airbags was tested last year and earned a good rating. With optional side airbags, the Five Hundred and its twin Mercury Montego earn the Institute's TOP SAFETY PICK 2006 (gold) award for good ratings in front, side, and rear tests.) According to Ford, the Five Hundred and Montego will be equipped with standard side airbags beginning with cars built in September 2006.

Side impacts are the second most common fatal crash type after frontal crashes. About 9,700 people were killed in side impacts in 2004. In crashes involving newer model cars in collisions with other passenger vehicles, more driver deaths now occur in cars struck in the side (51 percent) than in the front (44 percent). This contrasts with the past when more deaths occurred in frontal crashes.

"The change reflects the big improvements manufacturers have made in frontal crashworthiness in response to Institute and federal government frontal crash test programs," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "These new crash test results show that the same improvements are beginning to be made for protection in serious side impacts."

Impala and Avalon are star performers: The side structures of these two cars performed reasonably well in resisting intrusion from the striking barrier during the crash test. Both cars are equipped with standard curtain-style side airbags designed to protect the heads of people in both front and rear seats.

In the test of the Impala, intrusion into the occupant compartment was minimized by the strong pillar between the front and back doors. The side airbags deployed from above the window frames and inflated between the heads of the crash test dummies and the intruding barrier.

"This is why side airbags with head protection are critical," Lund points out. "Without them, people's heads are vulnerable to being struck by the front ends of striking vehicles or trees and poles."

Both the Impala and Avalon earn acceptable ratings for side structure. Nearly all injury measures on heads, chests, and other body areas of the test dummies were low.

Side airbags are standard in more cars: Growing sales of SUVs and pickup trucks have exacerbated height mismatches among passenger vehicles, and these mismatches increase the risk of serious head injuries among occupants of side-struck vehicles. SUVs and pickups made up 31 percent of new vehicle sales in 1994, but the proportion had increased to nearly 47 percent by 2004.

When the Institute began its side impact test program in 2003, simulating an impact in which a vehicle is struck by a pickup or SUV, few of the vehicles that were tested had head-protecting side airbags as standard equipment. This has improved so that such airbags are standard in half of the large family car models the Institute recently tested.

"Manufacturers are responding to this test in two significant ways," Lund explains. "They're beefing up the designs of their vehicles' side structures, and they're adding side airbags with head protection to more vehicles as standard equipment."

Side airbags with head protection became standard in 2005 Avalons, 2006 Impala and LaCrosse models, and in the Lucerne when it was introduced to replace the LeSabre and Park Avenue models in 2006. The predecessor to the Azera, the Hyundai XG350, had standard combination head/chest side airbags for front-seat occupants. The replacement Azera was upgraded in 2006 with standard curtain-style airbags as well as chest airbags that protect both front- and rear-seat occupants.

Side airbags once were exclusively found in luxury models, but now they're increasingly standard even in inexpensive cars. Overall nearly 40 percent of 2006 passenger vehicle models have standard side airbags with head protection. In contrast, only 23 percent of 2003s did.

Side airbags aren't mandated by the federal government like frontal airbags have been since the 1990s. However, manufacturers have voluntarily agreed to make side airbags standard in all vehicles by the 2009 model year.

"The market is demanding them," Lund says.

Worst performers don't have side airbags: All three cars that earned the lowest rating of poor, Chrysler 300 plus Ford Five Hundred and Crown Victoria, were tested without their optional side airbags. In the Five Hundred, the driver dummy's head was hit by the intruding barrier. This produced high head injury measures. In a real-world crash of similar severity, the driver could have sustained a serious skull fracture and brain injuries. Rib fractures and internal organ injuries also would be possible.

The driver dummy's head was struck by the barrier in the 300 without side airbags, although this did not produce high head injury measures. Equipped with its optional side airbags, the 300 improved to marginal and head protection was good. However, injury measures from the dummy's pelvis and chest kept this car from earning a higher overall rating.

The Crown Victoria without side airbags is rated poor. It earned the worst structural rating in this group of large cars. Although the driver dummy's head was not struck by the intruding barrier, a high acceleration occurred when the head struck the window sill. High forces were recorded on the driver dummy's chest, indicating the likelihood of rib fractures and internal organ injuries. The Crown Victoria is available with optional combination head/torso side airbags for front-seat occupants. Ford is making design changes to improve this car's protection of occupants in side impacts and has asked the Institute to test a Crown Victoria with its optional side airbags. When the changes are made, the Institute will conduct the test and report the results.

The side impact test is only one measurement of vehicle crashworthiness. The Institute also conducts 40 mph frontal offset crash tests and evaluates vehicles' seat/head restraint designs for protection in rear crashes. All of the cars in this group except the Impala earned the highest rating of good in the frontal offset test. The Impala is rated acceptable. The seat/head restraints in all but three of the cars in this group also have been rated for rear crash protection.

Nearly every passenger vehicle now earns a good rating in the Institute's frontal crash test, but performance varies widely in side and rear tests. These differences can help consumers choose vehicles that offer the best overall crash protection. For comparative evaluations of hundreds of passenger vehicles, go to our ratings section.

How the side impact test is conducted: A vehicle's side evaluation is based on performance in a crash test in which the side of the vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Overall ratings reflect injury measures recorded on two instrumented SID-IIs dummies, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle's structural performance during the test. Injury measures obtained from the two dummies, one in the driver seat and the other in the rear seat behind the driver, are used to determine the likelihood that a driver and/or passenger in a real-world crash would sustain serious injury to various body regions. The movements and contacts of the dummies' heads during the test also are evaluated. Structural performance is based on measurements indicating the amount of B-pillar intrusion into the occupant compartment.

Posted by Frank at 02:21 AM | Comments (0)

That New Car Smell Will Kill You

Marian Keeler, a conscientious greenie, bought a hybrid Toyota Prius for the planet, then got to wondering if the car was good for her health.

She took samples of the air inside the car, particularly looking for the source of that new car smell, and found 60 airborne chemicals, including the following and their potential side effects.

Yummy:

Toluene: A solvent used in paints and gasoline that, in high-enough concentrations, can cause health problems ranging from nausea to kidney damage.

Xylenes: Solvents used in paints, dyes and gasoline that, in high-enough concentrations, can cause headaches and labored breathing, and, over many years, liver damage.

TXIB: A component of PVC that, in high-enough concentrations, can cause eye and nose irritation.

Butyl cellosolve: A solvent used in paints and lacquers that, in high-enough concentrations, can cause eye irritation, headaches and, eventually, liver damage.

Ethylhexanol: An alcohol used in plastics and paint that, in high-enough concentrations, can cause nose, eye and throat irritation, dizziness and diarrhea.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 02:14 AM | Comments (0)

June 16, 2006

Disgruntled Dealer Suing Mercedes for $1.7 Million "Lemon"

Los Angeles car dealer Mark Johnston paid $1.7 million for a limited edition Mercedes Benz roadster, and he says it only drive ten blocks before it died.

Now he's suing Mercedes, who says they don't know what he's talking about, car worked fine when it left the factory.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mr. Car Dealer, how's it feel to get screwed?

The car in question is a Mercedes AMG CLK-GTR Limited Edition Roadster which is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most expensive production car ever made. The two-door sports car is made of carbon fiber monocoque with an integrated steel roll cage and front energy absorbing crash box. The 6.9-liter engine has a 12-cylinder, 60 degree V-motor, enabling the car to go from zero to 124 mph in 9.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 198.4 mph.

Posted by Frank at 01:22 PM | Comments (0)

Boyd Coddington to Build Hot Rod for Mississippi Casino

Celebrity Hot-Rod Builder Boyd Coddington is transforming a stock 1940 Ford Woodie owned by the Isle of Capri Casino into a custom ride that will be featured Discovery Channel's American Hot Rod, and in appearances by Boyd and Jo Coddington at select Isle of Capri Casinos properties throughout 2006.

From Ertl diecast cars and Boyd Coddington remote control cars to celebrity rides -- Coddington crafted "CadZZilla" for ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons and a 1934 Ford coupe for Van Halen's Michael Anthony -- Coddington's legendary designs are as mainstream as they are creative.

"Being featured on Boyd's show allows the Isle brand to breakthrough the clutter of commercial television reaching directly to our core demographic in a fun, unique manner. This arrangement will also allow our guests the ability to meet the legendary Boyd Coddington up close and personal," Les McMackin, Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc., senior vice president of marketing, said.

The tentative appearance schedule includes: Kansas City, Mo. on June 24; Boonville, Mo. on June 25; Natchez, Miss. on Aug. 12; Black Hawk, Colo. on Aug. 19; Bettendorf, Iowa on Sept. 24; Biloxi, Miss. on Oct. 7 and Lula, Miss. on Oct. 14.

Posted by Frank at 01:14 PM | Comments (0)

Hyundai Boasts Affordable Electronic Stability Control

Electronic Stability Control is Standard Safety Equipment on 70 Percent of Hyundai Vehicles, More Than Any Other Popular Brand

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai continues to demonstrate its commitment to life-saving Electronic Stability Control (ESC) by making it standard on more of its sales volume than any luxury brand. Hyundai expects to sell more than 350,000 ESC-equipped vehicles in the 2007 model year -- more than Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche or Volvo.

Proving that ESC does not require paying premium prices, Hyundai offers this sophisticated safety technology as standard equipment on five vehicle lines for the 2007 model year: Sonata, Tucson, Santa Fe, Entourage, and Azera -- all of which have starting prices between $18,000 and $25,000. All told, 70 percent of Hyundai sales volume in the 2007 model year will be comprised of vehicles with standard Electronic Stability Control, a higher standard fitment rate by far than that achieved by any non-luxury brand, including Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet or VW.

"Research universally substantiates that Electronic Stability Control is an invaluable life-saving technology, and Hyundai is proud to lead all popular automotive brands in providing it as standard equipment to our customers," said John Krafcik, vice president of product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Other manufacturers may talk about their commitment to this technology, but at Hyundai, we've demonstrated our commitment by making ESC standard equipment on 70 percent of our volume."

A study released earlier this week by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) confirmed that ESC reduces the risk of all single-vehicle crashes by more than 40 percent -- fatal crashes by 56 percent. In addition, the same research shows that ESC reduces the risk of fatal multiple-vehicle crashes by 32 percent. The IIHS data also shows that ESC reduces the risk of single-vehicle crashes by SUVs by 43 percent and cars by 33 percent, while it reduces single-vehicle rollovers by SUVs by 80 percent, 77 percent for cars. The IIHS estimates that as many as 10,000 fatal accidents could be avoided each year if all vehicles were equipped with ESC.

Posted by Frank at 01:09 PM | Comments (0)

Ford Plans Mexico, Southern U.S. Plants

Details have been leaked about Ford's possible plans to invest $9 billion in Mexico, including building a new plant, as well as one in the southern United States. The skullduggery of this leak is that it was timed to coincide with Ford President Mark Field's DC speechifying and the UAW's convention.

So, the plan is an option not a policy, yet.

Second, the real story is that Ford can't afford to build its biggest plants in the U.S. because of the specter of the auto worker unions, whose members feel they deserve overpaying jobs.

Third, the concept that building the other plant in the southern part of the U.S., near the Asian factories, will provide a beachhead for the UAW is ludicrous. Auto factory jobs are worth $15 to $25 an hour to start, period, not $80 to $100 with benefits.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 01:03 PM | Comments (0)

Joyriding Dozer Operator Destroys Trees - Twice!

File this under can't learn from mistakes dep't: a vandal who knows his way around a Caterpillar bulldozer took one out for a five hour joyride and destroyed trees.

Okay, what about disabling it -- no, no, they let him come back and do it a second time.

Then a government cop says, on the record, that the vandal must have had some experience with the model of bulldozer, and details how to start one!

Link.

Posted by Frank at 12:22 PM | Comments (0)

Charger Pursues Crown Vic For Cops' Wallets

This article looks at the progress Dodge has made in the police car market with the hot Charger, and finds about 3,000 have been sold compared to 45,000-50,000 Crown Vics sold every year.

For our opinion, the Charger wins in pure, let's scare the shit out of the perps department, and is said to be faster off the line. But we've sat in one and the interior seems a little tighter than the Vic.

Posted by Frank at 12:17 PM | Comments (0)

Mopar Fans Have a Home at Mo-Pod.Com

Mopar enthusiasts now have a chance to show the world what fuels their passion with the launch of http://www.mo-pod.com/ , a new Web site and Podcast dedicated to playing videos of the Mopar faithful.

The new Web site empowers Mopar enthusiasts to showcase their lifestyle, passion and interest in all things Mopar. Videos of cool cars, decked-out garages, car club events, professional and grassroots racing action -- and much more -- will be premiered on Mo-Pod.com. The videos can be viewed on the Web site and popular Podcast subscription services, such as Apple iTunes and Podcast Alley.

Visitors to can view clips from a library of Mopar videos. Clips can be downloaded free of charge to desktop computers and iPods. The site features six categories: Racing, Mopar Life, MoRides, Xtreme, Spotlight and Heritage. Enthusiasts whose submissions are chosen for the Mo- Pod.com Podcast will receive a free one-year subscription to Mopar Magazine.

Posted by Frank at 12:15 PM | Comments (0)

Nissan's $100 Million American HQ

This pic is a rendering of Nissan's new, 10-story, $100 million Tennessee headquarters, which will be home to almost 1,300 worjers when complete. In the meantime, Nissaners will be working in borrowed digs; everyone reports to TN by the end of July.

Posted by Frank at 12:10 PM | Comments (0)

Burning Rubber! Are SUV Owners Torching Their Upside Down Rides?

This article points to some anecdotal evidence that SUV owners, faced with high gas prices and owing more on their loan than the car is worth, take to solving the problem with a gallon of gas and a match.

A Cali car dealer was recently found to be the organizer of one mini-ring, where for $300 you could get your ride toasted.

These kind of things pop up every once in a while, and aren't as prevalent as the insurance fraud investigators would have you think.

Posted by Frank at 12:05 PM | Comments (0)

Smithsonian Feeds the EV1 Conspiracy?

As if there weren't enough conspiracy tales floating on the Internet, this story gently asks whether the Smithsonian removed an EV1 electric car from display as a movie about the conspiracy to kill electric cars is set to open.

That would make it a meta-conspiracy.

Hey, just because GM is an 8-figure donor to the Smithsonian doesn't mean they would call the curator and say, put that thing in a closet, willya?

Here's the link to our original story about the movie, where you can watch the trailer.

Posted by Frank at 11:56 AM | Comments (0)

June 14, 2006

Mark Fields Says Ford is On Track

WASHINGTON – In a speech at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce today, Ford Motor Company Executive Vice President and President of the Americas Mark Fields addressed the ways the automaker has aggressively restructured the company and its culture, and outlined policy areas such as trade, currency, energy, health care and investment in research and development that call for partnerships between industry and government.

"What are we asking from our partners in government and industry? We are not asking for anybody to help us alone or help us uniquely. No bailouts. No handouts," Fields said. "But – having taken the steps to help ourselves – we think it’s important that we all come together to address the external challenges that affect so many American businesses."

In describing the crucial role innovation is playing in Ford’s turnaround plan, Fields pointed out that the company spends $7.5 billion every year on research and development. "That’s nearly as much as NASA and more than the Department of Agriculture, Interior, Labor, Justice, Commerce, Transportation, EPA, Education and Homeland Security combined," Fields said. "We can’t cut our way to growth. We have to innovate."

Fields emphasized the need for production of alternative fuels like ethanol, and the infrastructure to support them. In the face of rising fuel costs, taking steps towards energy independence is more important than ever and Ford is committed to doing is part because, Fields said, “It's what our President has called for, it's what the Congress has been working on, and more importantly, it's good for America.” Ford has put more than 1.6 million ethanol-capable, or flex-fuel, vehicles on the road in the last decade.

In addition, Fields outlined several policy areas that he considers crucial to the future viability of the U.S. auto industry:

* He urged Congress to consider a permanent research and development tax credit in order to provide businesses with incentive to continue to invest in innovation through the highs and the lows of the business cycle.
* He called for cooperation between business and government to address skyrocketing health care costs.
* Noting that foreign governments are using non-tariff trade barriers and currency distortion to keep U.S. automakers out of their markets, Fields called on government to ensure a level playing field.
* With Ford working to make existing conventional engines more efficient and investing in engines that run on new sources of energy, like battery power, ethanol and other biofuels, he called on oil companies and the government to do much more to increase retail distribution of ethanol through incentives like tax credits.

Fields also provided an update Ford’s turnaround plan, the Way Forward, which was launched in January. He noted that Ford has slowed its decline in market-share and is on pace to convert three quarters of its North American assembly plants to flexible manufacturing by 2008. This will enable Ford to switch between models and deliver more products faster based on changing demand.

“We allowed ourselves to get bogged down in the accumulated decisions and systems of the past, getting stuck in old ways of thinking,” Fields said. “Even when we had successes, like with our SUVs, we grew so dependent upon that success that we didn’t look far enough beyond the horizon, tracking the trends, knowing our customers, and seeing the day when they might want something else. I’m proud to tell you, that’s the Ford of the past—not the Ford of today.”

Posted by Frank at 09:41 PM | Comments (0)

Ford Signs Taylor Hicks in National Advertising Deal

DEARBORN, Mich., June 14 - Fresh on the heels of his American Idol victory, Taylor Hicks will launch a new ad for Ford’s model year-end sales event. In the television ad, which debuts on June 15, Hicks sings and dances to a new song, “Possibilities.”

“Taylor Hicks is living the American dream and we’re excited to be a part of his journey to stardom,” said John Felice, Ford brand general marketing manager. “It’s a bold move to audition for American Idol and it takes talent, hard work and confidence to win. That’s why Taylor is such a great fit for Ford.”

“‘Possibilities’ has a great vibe, and it’s a blast to dance to,” said Hicks. “I’m thrilled to be given a chance to perform it as part of the Ford family.”

The commercial was created by JWT Detroit and directed by Michael Humboldt of Plum Productions. Print executions featuring Hicks will debut nationally in USA Today and major newsweeklies. The 60- and 30-second television and radio spots will begin airing locally and nationally on June 15.

Posted by Frank at 09:41 PM | Comments (0)

Yet More Gas Saving Tips

* Change the air filter regularly. A dirty filter can lower gas mileage.

* Maintain the recommended level of air pressure in the tires. Drivers
can lose two percent of fuel economy for every pound of pressure under
the recommended pounds per square inch.

* Drive at 55 mph. Tests have shown that a car driven at 65 mph will use
17 % more fuel than one driven at 55 mph.

* Fill up early in the morning. The afternoon sun can heat and expand the
gas in the station's fuel tank so drivers get less for their money.

* Use only the grade octane listed in the owner's manual. Higher octane
gas does not make a difference in the miles per gallon.

Posted by Frank at 09:29 PM | Comments (0)

Honda Recalling Half Mil Mid 90s Vehicles

Honda is recalling over 561,000 vehicles in three models to replace a faulty part used in starting an engine. The recall affects 217,953 Odyssey minivans, 141,652 CR-V sport-utility models and 123,580 Step Wagon minivans; produced between Oct. 3, 1994, and May 15, 1997.

Less than 80,000 were exported abroad, including the United States, Canada, and other countries. The vehicle’s engine can suddenly stop because some of its parts can be damaged by heat if used repeatedly over time.

Posted by Frank at 09:25 PM | Comments (0)

June 13, 2006

DIY Rooftop Parking

This is a prank. This car miraculously appeared atop a Long Island High School roof, and no one knows how it got there.

All we can say is, the upcoming generations of students at the school are doomed -- they'll always be haunted by the ultimate prank, which can't be topped.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:56 PM | Comments (0)

Are Younger Americans More Loyal to American Cars?

Fords says so. Citing research from a Scarborough survey of over 200,000 Americans, about 30% of 18-34 year olds own Ford products, according to the company.

This cohort is also 12% more likely to own their own homes and have young children, which is good news for Ford because this stable group is also more likely to be repeat buyers of new automobiles.

Posted by Frank at 05:46 PM | Comments (0)

State Attorney General Urging Investigation of Grand Cherokee

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is making an appeal for a federal invesitgation into an alleged sudden acceleration problem with the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

A 52-year-old CT man was recently killed at a car wash by a Grand Cherokee that allegedly suffered from this malfunction.

The problem is said to occur when shifting from neutral to drive, when the car may then suddenly accelerate, according to this news report, that includes a video of a surveillance camera catching a Grand Cherokee in action.

Posted by Frank at 05:10 PM | Comments (0)

Video: Dodge Caliber

Check out this running footage of the Dodge Caliber, that includes a description of current lease offers.

Posted by Frank at 05:00 PM | Comments (0)

Chrysler Affirms Commitment to Stability Control

Chrysler Group, also responding to the IIHS study on Electronic Stability Control, says 70% of their vehicles will have ESC either standard or as an option by the end of 2006.

The company claims to have produced over 1.2 million vehicles with its Electronic Stability Program (ESP) since 2004.

Electronic Stability Program is standard or available on the 2006 Chrysler 300 and Crossfire; Dodge Charger, Durango, Magnum and Sprinter; and Jeep Commander, Grand Cherokee and Liberty. Additionally, Chrysler Group will offer ESP on the 2007 Chrysler Aspen; Dodge Caliber and Nitro; and Jeep Compass, Patriot and Wrangler as well as on other vehicles to be announced at a later date.

Posted by Frank at 04:57 PM | Comments (0)

Audi Bank Open For Business

Through July 21st, when you get a Audi Visa Signature card, you'll get a free Audi Sport North America pullover.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 04:51 PM | Comments (0)

GM Affirms Commitment to Stability Control

2007 Chevrolet Avalanche First Pickup with Standard Electronic Stability Control

On the heels of the IIHS report on electronic Stability Control, General Motors says they are committed to making it standard on all GM cars and trucks sold to retail customers in the U.S. and Canada by the end of the decade.

Electronic stability control (ESC) is branded as StabiliTrak on GM cars and trucks; it is designed to help drivers retain control of their vehicles during high-speed maneuvers or on slippery roads.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in a study released Tuesday, says an update of its 2004 study into the effectiveness of ESC shows:

* A reduction in single vehicle crashes by more than 40 percent and fatal crashes by 56 percent
* As many as 10,000 fatal crashes could be avoided each year if all vehicles were equipped with ESC.
* An 80 percent reduction in the risk of fatal single vehicle rollovers of SUVs.

GM, which was the first automaker to make ESC standard on its full-size sport-utility vehicles, announced in January 2005 that it would make ESC standard on all GM cars and trucks sold to retail cus tomers by the end of 2010.

StabiliTrak is standard or available on 45 percent of GM vehicles today – 40 models for the 2006 model year and 43 for the 2007 model year, including the 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche, which is now arriving in dealerships. The Avalanche is the first full-size pickup truck in the industry standard with StabiliTrak.

“The results of the new study are further confirmation of our decision to make this lifesaving technology standard,” said Bob Lange, GM executive director of Structure and Safety Integration. “General Motors first studied the potential for StabiliTrak in the mid-1990s and every study since has added to the evidence of its enormous safety benefits.”

The 1997 Cadillac DeVille was among the first cars to have ESC, and the 2002 Cadillac Escalade was the first SUV in the industry with standard ESC.

Posted by Frank at 04:24 PM | Comments (0)

Institute: Stability Control Can Reduce Fatal Crashes by One-Third

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has issued a report claiming that one-third of all fatal crashes can be prevented in Electronic Stability Control [ESC] was universal equipment. Currently ESC is standard equipment on 40% of vehicles and optional on another 15%.

ESC is standard on 40% of 2006 passenger vehicle models and optional on another 15 percent. It's standard on every 2006 Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Mercedes, and Porsche. Another 8 vehicle makes (Cadillac, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mini, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo) offer at least optional ESC on all of their models. But ESC, standard or optional, is limited to 25% or fewer models from Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Hummer, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Saturn, Subaru, and Suzuki.

Full press release after the jump:

Electronic stability control could prevent nearly one-third of all fatal crashes and reduce rollover risk by as much as 80%; effect is found on single- and multiple-vehicle crashes

ARLINGTON, VA — An extension of antilock brake technology, electronic stability control (ESC) is designed to help drivers retain control of their vehicles during high-speed maneuvers or on slippery roads. Previous research found significant effects of ESC in reducing the risk of fatal single-vehicle crashes. Using data from an additional year of crashes and a larger set of vehicle models, researchers at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have updated the 2004 results and found that ESC reduces the risk of fatal multiple-vehicle crashes by 32 percent.

The new research confirms that ESC reduces the risk of all single-vehicle crashes by more than 40 percent — fatal ones by 56 percent. The researchers estimate that if all vehicles were equipped with ESC, as many as 10,000 fatal crashes could be avoided each year.

"The findings indicate that ESC should be standard on all vehicles," says Susan Ferguson, Institute senior vice president for research. "Very few safety technologies show this kind of large effect in reducing crash deaths."

Availability varies: ESC is standard on 40 percent of 2006 passenger vehicle models and optional on another 15 percent. It's standard on every 2006 Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Mercedes, and Porsche. Another 8 vehicle makes (Cadillac, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mini, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo) offer at least optional ESC on all of their models. But ESC, standard or optional, is limited to 25 percent or fewer models from Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Hummer, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Saturn, Subaru, and Suzuki.

After studies in 2004 by the Institute and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, some manufacturers announced plans to make ESC standard on all SUVs. The percentage of SUV models with standard ESC has been growing faster than for cars.

As a stand-alone option, ESC costs from about $300 to $800, but it can cost more than $2,000 on some models when packaged with other equipment. A potential problem for increasing consumer awareness is that automakers market ESC by various names including Electronic Stability Program, StabiliTrack, or Active Handling.

"When ESC is optional, this hodgepodge of terms is bound to be confusing," Ferguson points out. "It's good that some of the major manufacturers have pledged to make ESC standard on their SUVs in the next few model years, and it should be standard on cars and pickup trucks too."

How ESC works: Antilock brakes have speed sensors and independent braking capability. ESC adds sensors that continuously monitor how well a vehicle is responding to a driver's steering wheel input. These sensors can detect when a driver is about to lose control because the vehicle is straying from the intended line of travel — a problem that usually occurs in high-speed maneuvers or on slippery roads. In these circumstances, ESC brakes individual wheels automatically to keep the vehicle under control.

When a driver makes a sudden emergency maneuver or, for example, enters a curve too fast, the vehicle may spin out of control. Then ESC's automatic braking is applied and in some cases throttle reduced to help keep the vehicle under control.

ESC is relatively new. Only in the last few years have researchers had sufficient data to analyze its effects on real-world crashes. The new Institute study is based on data from the federal Fatality Analysis Reporting System and police reports of crashes in 10 states during 2001-04. Researchers compared crash rates for cars and SUVs without ESC and the same models in subsequent years when ESC was standard (note: some vehicles with optional ESC were included in the no-ESC group because so few buyers choose this option).

More effects of ESC on SUVs: The data in the Institute's 2004 study weren't extensive enough to allow researchers to compute separate risk reduction estimates for cars and SUVs. However, this was possible in the broader analysis that's just completed. While both cars and SUVs benefit from ESC, the reduction in the risk of single-vehicle crashes was significantly greater for SUVs — 49 percent versus 33 percent for cars. The reduction in fatal single-vehicle crashes wasn't significantly different for SUVs (59 percent) than for cars (53 percent).

Many single-vehicle crashes involve rolling over, and ESC effectiveness in preventing rollovers is even more dramatic. It reduces the risk of fatal single-vehicle rollovers of SUVs by 80 percent, 77 percent for cars.

ESC was found to reduce the risk of all kinds of fatal crashes by 43 percent. This is more than the 34 percent reduction reported in 2004. If all vehicles had ESC, it could prevent as many as 10,000 of the 34,000 fatal passenger vehicle crashes that occur each year.

Insurance claims show effects on collision losses: The results of the Institute's studies showing significant reductions in serious crash risk are reflected in some insurance losses. According to a new analysis by the Highway Loss Data Institute, an affiliate of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, losses under collision coverage are about 15 percent lower for vehicles with ESC than for predecessor models without it. However, ESC doesn't have much effect on property damage liability claims or the frequency of injury claims. These findings track police-reported crashes, which show little effect of ESC on the risk of low-severity multiple-vehicle crashes.

Posted by Frank at 04:10 PM | Comments (0)

Ford, Toyota Named Top Diversity Workplaces

Both Ford and Toyota have been named by black Enterprise magazine as among the 40 best companies to work for in terms of diversity.

Both companies were also named as being among the 10 Best Companies in Marketing Diversity, in terms of their advertising and messaging efforts.

Posted by Frank at 04:05 PM | Comments (0)

Subaru Outback Gets Rave Endorsement from New Owner

Editor's note: we got a very cool note from a CBN reader about his new Subaru Outback and thought we'd share it with the rest of you:

I purchased an Outback 2.5i Limited one month ago. Fuji Heavy Industries produces a fantastic automobile. I have driven an American brand soley for over 45 years and made this switch based upon both my reaction and my wife's. She was never excited about any other car I purchased but this one got her excited.

The quality of fit and finish and comfort and driveability and appearance and everything else enamored her (and me). The single colored champagne gold didn't hurt either.

It is no wonder the big three were all down in sales last month and most imports (even those made here which is a lot) were on the increase. Subaru is on the very same plane as Toyota, Honda, etc. Our town is full of them and I haven't found one person who doesn't love them.

One owner said if I don't get at least 150-200,000 miles he would be very surprised. The little four cylinder boxer engine with 16 valves and dual exhausts is amazing and gets great mileage.

John Carver

Posted by Frank at 02:22 PM | Comments (0)

The Ultimate, Do It Yourself Car Deodorizer

If your ride got a case of the stinks, the best and cheapest way to deodorize it is with a solution of pine cleaner and water, left on the floor in an open container overnight.

I use a water bottle and would show you a picture but guess what it looks like, so no pic.

You only need an ounce for about 12-16 ounces of water, more if it smells really bad.

But be careful otherwise you'll be overwhelmed in the morning; you may want to keep the windows cracked overnight.

Posted by Frank at 02:15 PM | Comments (0)

June 12, 2006

Mitsubishi Spyder Convertible Video

This video is straightforward -- we wanted to show you how smooth the Spyder's power convertible top operates and that's a theme that resonates throughout the car.

The ride of the Spyder was smooth, the interior is stylish without being gaudy and the exterior styling also is sharp without going over the top.

In a word, the Eclipse Syder is smooth.

To get a free price quote on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, click here.

Posted by Frank at 08:07 PM | Comments (0)

Avis Makes Mobility Scooters Available

Car rental company Avis has partnered with Scootaround to offer customers mobility scooters in the trunks of their rental cars in select locations.

Click here to submit a reservation at the Scootaround site.

Posted by Frank at 07:09 PM | Comments (0)

Trunk Monkey Pediatric Edition Video

God bless the internets, that amazing digital purgatory that allows the trunk money to deliver babies for all eternity.

Posted by Frank at 06:53 PM | Comments (0)

LA Auto Show's New Beginning

The LA Auto Show got majorly screwed last year when the Detroit Show organizers moved up the dates of their event, effectively obsoleting the LA Show.

In other words, with 2 shows back to back, and all the major action scheduled for Detroit, LA had a pickle.

So they moved their 2007 show up, actually back, in time to run December 1-10, 2006.

The LA organizers still have a job on their hands, because they need to convince automakers to invest cash, plus schedule important unveils, during the December show.

The real problem, especially for the imports, is the tension between not dissing Detroit, and not ignoring the California car market, one of the largest and definitely the most culturally significant worldwide.

Personally, I'm going to LA.

Posted by Frank at 06:24 PM | Comments (0)

Pontiac Solstice Wins First Stock Car Race

Andrew Aquilante won the Showroom Stock B (SSB) race behind the wheel of a souped-up Pontiac Solstice at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Conn. on June 10.

Debuting in SSB for 2006, the Solstice was race-prepared by Phoenix Performance.

“Lime Rock rewards nimbleness, agility and braking over outright power,” said John Heinricy of GM Performance Division. “With strong early performances, the Pontiac Solstice is demonstrating it will be a tough competitor in SSB for years to come.”

In its first two outings on May 6 at New Hampshire and May 28 at Nelson Ledges, the Solstice finished third and fourth respectively, while also setting the fastest lap time in each race. At Nelson Ledges, the Solstice’s fastest lap (1:18:811) set a new track record for SSB class.

Aquilante currently leads the driver points standings in the Northeast Division of SSB, and will next race the team’s Solstice in the Steel Cities Region June National at BeaveRun Motorsports Complex in Wampum, Penn. on Father’s Day, June 18.

While Aquilante was lighting up the track at Lime Rock, a second Pontiac Solstice entry was making its debut in the Kaw Valley Race Group June National at Heartland Park in Topeka, Kan.

Driven by retired GM executive Stan Czacki and built in the Phoenix Performance shops, the second-ever SCCA Solstice entry finished third on Sunday behind two BMW Z4s.

Both Solstices are equipped with the Z0K Club Sport regular production order option package, which is designed for the weekend racer and currently available to order through any Pontiac dealership.

Developed by GM Performance Division, the Club Sport package features the standard five-speed manual transmission along with antilock brakes (ABS), a limited-slip differential, an improved power steering cooler and FE3 suspension. The FE3 suspension will be standard on the upcoming 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP.

No other options are available when ordering the Club Sport Solstice, but some components and safety equipment are required by SCCA to make it track ready, including a hardtop, racing tires, higher friction brake pads, rollcage, seatbelts, etc.

Aquilante is the 2004 Northeast Division Rookie of the Year and 2005 Philadelphia Region Driver of the Year. He is also the two-time defending Northeast Division Touring 1 (T1) champion for 2004 and 2005 driving a Corvette C5 Z06.

Posted by Frank at 06:17 PM | Comments (0)

VW Rolls Over 440 Pound Man, Sustains Minor Damage

At first the story sounds cool -- a 440 pound cyclist got run over by a VW Polo and escaped without major injury, due to his largeness.

Then you've got to ask yourself, a 440 pound cyclist? We hope he wasn't naked.

Posted by Frank at 06:01 PM | Comments (0)

Naked Bike Riders Demand Respect From Motorists

MEXICO CITY - Dozens of cyclists rode nude through downtown Mexico City on Saturday, demanding respect from motorists and protesting against the car-oriented culture in this megalopolis.

With slogans like "Respect Bike Riders" painted on their bodies, about two dozen naked cyclists turned heads in a city where it's rare to see even clothed riders braving the chaotic traffic on bikes.

Umm, did the organizers believe the motorists when they said, "sure, I'll respect you after you take your clothes off"?

Posted by Frank at 05:50 PM | Comments (0)

Jeep Recalls 111,000 Grand Cherokees for Hot Seats

DaimlerChrysler AG is recalling about 111,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees after receiving reports of overheating and fires in heated seats.

The automaker said it had received 32 complaints of the front seat electric heater element overheating or leading to a fire. The recall involves the 2003-2004 model years of the Grand Cherokee sport utility vehicle with heated seats.

Owners are expected to receive letters about the recall in July.

Posted by Frank at 05:44 PM | Comments (0)

Honda Narrows Next Plant Location to Three Small Towns

Honda Motor Company has chosen three finalists for the location of their next US-based manufacturing plant, and all are described as semi-rural small towns.

Honda has said the plant will be built in the Midwest, and expects to finish by 2008. Honda's North American production capacity will grow from 1.4 million to 1.6 million vehicles a year and employ about 1,500.

Ohio Gov. Bob Taft has said Honda is looking at two sites in his state: near Octa, about 40 miles southwest of Columbus, and near Van Wert, about 75 miles southwest of Toledo.

Indiana officials are pushing sites near Greensburg in the southeastern part of the state, between Indianapolis and Cincinnati.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:38 PM | Comments (0)

Suzuki Cuts GM Ties in Japan

TOKYO - Suzuki Motor Corp. will dissolve its sales tie-up in Japan with General Motors Corp. and end its joint development operations in the country with the American auto maker, a news report said Sunday.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:36 PM | Comments (0)

Cars Movie Tops Box Office

LOS ANGELES - The animated comedy “Cars” raced to first place at the weekend box office with a $62.8 million debut, maintaining the Disney-Pixar cartoon brand’s undefeated record with a seventh straight hit.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:35 PM | Comments (0)

June 11, 2006

The QuikMazda5 -- Quiksilver Artists Decorate the Mazda5

Quiksilver artists [the surf shop guys] took on a way cool project, free transforming the Mazda5 into freespirited art on wheels. There are ten cars that got the treatment, we've got three here, to see more check out this page.

Posted by Frank at 03:28 PM | Comments (0)

Ford's Drive On Us Promotion Runs Through July 31

Ford's current promotion could be referred to as "Double-Ought" by hunter types.

That's because the deal is heavy-duty -- 0% interest and Zero Dollars for Gas [you get up to an $1,100 gas card].

Check out this page for the details, the deal applies to 36 months, or 60 or 72 months, depending on the vehicle.

Posted by Frank at 03:03 PM | Comments (0)

Welcome to Subaru Outdoor Life

Did you know Subaru sponsors hundreds of outdoor and adventure lifestyle events every year?

There's a dedicated website for Subaru Outdoor Life activities that include kayaking, cross-country skiing, cycling, and of course, rally racing.

Here's the link. After the jump, read Subaru's Commitment to the Outdoors Manifesto.

The Subaru Commitment to the Outdoors

When you see a Subaru driving down the road or at the trailhead, chances are it will be loaded with a kayak, canoe, mountain bike, skis or snowboard. That's because The Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System provides drivers with superior performance in all types of conditions - essential for transporting outdoor sports enthusiasts to the river, the mountains and those "off the beaten path" destinations with safety and confidence. You could say that Subaru is the official vehicle of the outdoors.

Make no mistake, this is no idle marketing hype. Subaru has a long history of supporting active lifestyle enthusiasts and the organizations that are important to them. Together with our partners, Subaru hosts hundreds of outdoor events each year from coast to coast. This approach helps us learn more about our customers' interests, and enables us to demonstrate how Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive can complement their active lifestyles. Simply put, it's much more than hanging a banner on a mountain or sponsoring a racing team - it's the real deal. It's what makes us unique.

Posted by Frank at 02:52 PM | Comments (0)

Scion Exposed: The Gathering

On Saturday June 24, 2006, there will occur the 2006 Scion Exposed Owner's event at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington.

The event is free to Scion driver's and their guests, which takes place during a weekend of racing activities including the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series and the EMCO Gears Classic.

BUT the freebies are limited to the first 100 Scion owners to request campsites via the Exposed website.

More information is available at www.goexposed.com.

Posted by Frank at 02:47 PM | Comments (0)

Get $50 to Test Drive a Suzuki Grand Vitara

Test drive a 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara through June 19, and get a $50 gas card in the mail.

There's really not much more to say -- click already!

Posted by Frank at 02:06 PM | Comments (0)

Join the Chevy Silverado 200K Club

If your Chevy Silverado pickup has 200,000 miles or more you can join the 200K club and, with a little creative writing, win one of ten all-expenses paid trip to the Texas State Fair in Dallas from 9/27 to 9/30.

Get yourself over to http://www.chevy200k.com/.

Posted by Frank at 01:39 PM | Comments (0)

June 10, 2006

Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit Take Subcompact Segment by Storm

Not only did Toyota Yaris sell a whopping 8,065 units in May 2006, the Chevy Aveo was displaced from its former #1 spot in the subcompact segment to #3 by the Yaris and the surging Kia Spectra, which turned in an impressive 8,474 units sold for a 65.5% monthly increase.

The Honda Fit sold 5,248 vehicles, coming in 4th in the segment, which with the introduction of the 2 new vehicles, plus the incessantly crazy gas prices, grew b y 66.8% over teh same month last year.

For the year to date, the subcompact segment is up 20.9%, a number that is bound to rise as the year progresses. Besides gas prices, you can't discount the amount of money Toyota and Honda are spending on marketing their new offerings.

Posted by Frank at 07:15 PM | Comments (0)

Top Ten Best Selling Cars for May 2006

The three big movers for this month are the Chevy Cobalt, Honda Civic and the champ, the Hyundai Sonata, which more than doubled sales in May '06 over the same month last year. For the year-to-date, Sonata sales are up 61%.

Also of note, for the year to date, the Toyota Corolla is opening up a nice sales lead over the Honda Accord -- could Toyota wind up having the #1 and #2 best selling cars in America this year?

Posted by Frank at 06:56 PM | Comments (0)

Audi Military Sales Program

Audi has a neat program for U.S. Military personnel, where you can get guaranteed pricing and delivery while you are overseas.

Programs are available for personnel in Europe, Italy, the United Kingdom or the Middle or Far East.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 06:19 PM | Comments (0)

Lease a Dodge Caliber Starting at $199

Dodge is selling the bang out of the new Caliber, 12,422 units in May, and there's at least two reasons. First, it's a neat looking car. We like the way they look on the road, and in people's driveways.

Second, this lease deal where you can get the base Caliber for $199 a month for 27 months with $999 due at signing. You can also opt to get the Caliber SXT for $239 a month, same deal, or the beefier Caliber R/T for $269 a month. The R/T gets a 172 horsepower engine while the other two models have a 148-hp motor.

Click here to get a free price quote on the Caliber or any Dodge or other vehicle.

Posted by Frank at 06:02 PM | Comments (0)

Corvette Quarterly Magazine

You can get a 3 year subscription to Corvette Quarterly [that's 12 issues for the challenged] for just $33.95 — a savings of more than 37% off the newsstand price!

Exclamation point courtesy of Chevy.

Corvette Quarterly is GM’s official magazine for the Corvette, so it has unrestricted access to the people, stories and latest information Corvette owners and enthusiasts are looking for.

Each issue is 68-pages and contains stories about road trips and track drives, personality profiles, in-depth technology analysis, race reports and a celebration of Corvette heritage.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:41 PM | Comments (0)

Video: Volvo Collision Avoidance

Volvo takes traditional collision warning systems a step further. Rather than simply alerting drivers when they are too close to the car ahead, the Collision Warning System actually slows the vehicle down if the driver does not hit the brakes when needed. This improves the safety of both the Collision Warning System-equipped vehicles and those around them.

Posted by Frank at 01:11 PM | Comments (0)

2007 Honda Fit Gets "5-Star" Safety Rating from NHTSA

The 2007 Honda Fit has earned a "5-Star" safety rating for frontal crash performance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A "5-Star" rating is the highest government safety rating.

Already a leader in vehicle safety as demonstrated by Honda's "Safety for Everyone" initiative, Honda continues to implement leading airbag technology in all vehicles regardless of size or price. Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, dual front side airbags and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all Fit models. In addition to its six airbags, Fit incorporates 3-point seat belts at all seating positions, as well as two Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) positions in the rear seats. Fit also utilizes active safety systems that include an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake distribution (EBD).

Honda's commitment to safety extends to pedestrians as well. To help reduce pedestrian injuries in the event of a collision, the Fit's hood and fender areas are designed to help absorb energy if contacted by an adult pedestrian.

Honda will complete the first phase of its "Safety for Everyone" initiative this year by voluntarily putting extensive levels of standard safety equipment on all its vehicles, with the exception of two small volume models (S2000 and Insight).

Additionally, Honda is the first and only auto manufacturer to list the NHTSA crash test "star" ratings on all new vehicle window stickers. This is the same information available to consumers on the NHTSA safercar.gov Web site.

Posted by Frank at 12:03 PM | Comments (0)

Audi Q7, A3, S8 Take 'Interior of the Year' From Ward's

DETROIT, Mich. – Audi vehicles captured three awards for interior design and quality levels as voted by the auto industry media. The Audi Q7, A3 and S8 all earned Auto Interior of the Year Awards during the Ward’s Auto Interiors Show, June 7, 2006. With these awards, Audi continues to build on its success of being regarded as the industry benchmark of interior design and quality.

The Audi Q7 won the news media award for the Premium-Priced CUV category, while the A3 took the news media award for the Popular-Priced Car category. Both the Audi Q7 and A3 have been highly regarded through out the media for their stylish, luxurious interiors since their debuts. The Audi S8 won the news media award for Best Sound System with its all-new Bang & Olufsen audio system. Available on all 2007 A8 and S8 models, the 1000 watt, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system features two lens tweeter speakers that automatically emerge from the dashboard, whose precision-aligned horizontal emissions offer perfect sound reproduction for all occupants.

Both the news media and the industry at-large voted for the “Interior of the Year” awards, with each group selecting winners for all 12 different categories. The three Audi vehicles selected won based on such merits as quality, fit and finish, styling, and special features.

Posted by Frank at 11:56 AM | Comments (0)

Vovlo C70 Convertible Dieselized - In Europe

Volvo says they've sold out all 16,000 of the C70 convertibles for 2006, and have raised worldwide production to 20K units, including introducing a D5 diesel option in Europe. The major markets for the Volvo C70 D5 will be Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Great Britain, and Belgium.

Posted by Frank at 11:46 AM | Comments (0)

MercedesBenz Museum Now Open to the Public

The new Mercedes-Benz Museum is now open to the public in Stuttgart. The imposing new building is far more than a home to 120 years of automotive history and 160 vehicles on nine levels.

The new Mercedes-Benz Museum was created the way a new car series would be. First it was conceived and rough-sketched in the mind and with computer assistance. The participants entered unknown territory with the concept. Prototypes of the structure were designed, some even full-scale, to test the feasibility of the ideas.

As everything gradually neared completion, an intensive test run was conducted to put the entire museum to the acid test. Now the “new series” is ready, and its uniqueness suggests just one comparison: the new Mercedes-Benz Museum is the S-Class among the museums of the world. It stands for the brand and its values. It spreads them abroad. It leads the way. Like the S-Class of Mercedes-Benz.

Symbolically, the new Museum goes out to the people: the previous Museum was located at the center of the Untertürkheim plant complex, whereas the new Mercedes-Benz Museum is now right at the plant gates. This makes it more visible, more tangible, more "visitable".

Proximity to parent plant

The new Mercedes-Benz Museum is located right next to the parent plant in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, one of the cradles of the automotive industry. Nor far from here, Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach developed their high-speed gasoline engine, the basis for individual mobility.

Beginning in 1903, early Mercedes vehicles were created here; this was the site of headquarters following the merger of Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft with Benz & Cie. to form Daimler-Benz AG in 1926; here was the starting point of reconstruction after World War II; and here the Mercedes-Benz brand still is at home today.

The new Mercedes-Benz Museum thus holds out its hand to all employees who worked for the brand in the past, work for it now, or will work for it in future. It gives them a promise of continuity. One hundred and twenty years of automotive history constantly point forward too, the basis for this being the permanent innovative spirit of the Mercedes-Benz brand – innovations are the milestones on the way to the future.

For this reason the Museum not only presents the history of the Mercedes-Benz brand, but also affords a revealing look at the future. The architecture, created by UN studio’s Ben van Berkel and Caroline Bos, also serves this function. Its distinctive modernity seems to place it as coming from the future, and yet it preserves tradition. It contains the “genetic makeup” of the brand – the interior of the building is modeled after the double DNA helix that contains the human genetic plan.

Committed to originality

The building is unique in this world, committed to the Mercedes-Benz brand’s spirit of originality, which endeavors time and again to create entirely new things to serve human mobility – from the invention of the automobile to the forward-looking Vision of Accident-free Driving.

Original too is the exhibition concept drawn up and implemented by Architekturbüro HG Merz. There are two tours. Seven Legend rooms are arranged on the first to tell the story of the brand. The second tour covers five Collection rooms where the variety of applications from passenger car to heavy-duty commercial vehicle is presented.

The exhibition is complemented by “The Fascination of Technology” section, which permits looking over the shoulders of the Mercedes-Benz employees and engineers in their everyday work and simultaneously directs attention to the future of the automobile. The detailed portrait of the Mercedes-Benz brand is made up of more than 1,450 exhibits, including 160 vehicles.

The Mercedes-Benz Museum itself already has made history. From its origins as a collection of technical objects for Benz and Daimler in the late 19th century to the first “proper” museum, opened in 1936; from the reconstruction in 1961 to the comprehensive redesign of the exhibition for the “100 Years of the Automobile” anniversary in 1986: always it has been a mirror of the brand into which customers, employees and the public could take a deep look. The new Museum carries on this tradition.

Posted by Frank at 11:29 AM | Comments (0)

BMW 02 Club 40th Anniversary Celebration

From June 15 - 18, BMW will be ecelebrating the 40th anniversary of the 02 series with a four day rally around Munich and Oberammergau. More than 550 entrants from 16 countries are expected to attend the event with their BMW 02 Series.

On Friday, June 16 the participants will be hosted by BMW in Munich, with the cavalcade of some 270 BMW classics making an appearance at Theresienwiese as the guests of BMW. There, right beneath the Bavaria statue, an array of cars in the bright colours of the '60s and '70s will cover an area of about 6500 sqaure metres.

And to top it all off, BMW will unveil a brand new 2002 tii built from the ground up out of Original BMW Parts.

Posted by Frank at 11:21 AM | Comments (0)

June 09, 2006

Volvo Launches Buried XC90 Pirate Promotion

Tied to the July 7 release of Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, Volvo launches a global multi-media treasure hunt for a buried, pirate-themed Volvo XC90 V8 beginning June 12 at www.volvocars.us/thehunt

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — In its largest-ever tie-in with a major motion picture, Volvo Car Corporation today announced it will support its official promotion of Disney’s upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest with a global, multi-media treasure hunt for a Volvo XC90 V8 that has been buried somewhere in the world.

Beginning June 12 through July 11, individuals nationwide can visit their local Volvo retailer to pick up a free treasure map. Once online, they are asked to go to www.volvocars.us/thehunt to register for the world’s first hunt for a buried vehicle. Treasure hunters then will participate in a challenging, engaging and fun-filled adventure to solve a series of online clues and puzzles.

The buried one-of-a-kind, pirate-themed Volvo XC90 features a variety of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest elements, including graphics from the film, black leather seats, custom painted 20 inch wheels and more.

Once registered online, individuals will have puzzles emailed to them on a regular basis. Those who solve the puzzles correctly will continue to receive clues. Individuals can join at any time though July 11, and can catch up with other participants if they correctly answer the puzzles posted online as they are emailed to participants. As the contest progresses, the puzzles will become increasingly harder to solve, with the final online clue e-mailed July 12. Volvo Car Corporation will then select seven finalists from around the world who correctly guess the answer to the final online clue.

In August, those finalists will be flown with a guest to the secret car burial location. Each finalist will set-off on a manic on-the-ground search for the buried vehicle. The first treasure hunter to unearth the SUV gets to keep it.

“If there’s one element you are sure to find in almost every good pirate story, it’s a buried treasure,” said Anne Bélec, president and chief executive officer of Volvo Cars of North America. “So, we’ve taken our most treasured vehicle, the Volvo XC90 V8 SUV, and married it to the pirate world, modifying it to make it as menacing as possible. It’s the centerpiece of a elaborate campaign that we hope will not only garner widespread participation for everyone who loves to search for buried treasure, but also have the public at large think about Volvo in an entirely new way.”

Volvo will promote the treasure hunt with a mysterious 30-second television spot airing on national cable networks during the months of June and July, online banner ads and other elements.

To participate, individuals must visit a Volvo retailer to pick up the treasure maps. Winners will only be eligible if they can produce the original treasure map upon conclusion of the hunt.

In addition to the United States, other Volvo regions participating in the hunt include the United Kingdom, Japan, Spain and Austria.

Posted by Frank at 11:01 PM | Comments (0)

Saab 9-3 Boasts Improvements for 2007

* New look main fascia and instrument displays
* Improved driver communication
* New infotainment systems
* Dual-zone Automatic Climate Control with rotary controls standard across range
* Bose audio and XM radio standard in Aero 2.8 V6 Sport Sedan
* Six-speed manual gearbox now also for 210 bhp turbo engine

The view from the driver's seat is the main focus of a host of enhancements to the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible ranges for Model Year 2007.

The main fascia, instrument displays and controls are given a cleaner and sharper look, while also improving driver interaction and communication. The result, both visually and in use, is a cockpit-inspired driving environment that retains a distinctive Saab feel.

The sporty performance of the base 210 bhp turbo engine is also brought into sharper focus by the standard fitment of a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission.

Design Focus

The main instrument panel, including new infotainment systems, is now framed by a matte chrome line, with the same finish given to all key controls, which are now rotary in function. In overall visual effect, the new cockpit is a modern interpretation of the look of the classic, first generation Saab 900 main fascia. The move to rotary controls also reflects a design theme found in the Saab 9-5, which was thoroughly refreshed for 2006.

As part of the strategy to improve driver interaction, the interior design team has also focused on rationalizing the number of separate information displays and single-use buttons. As a result, all key driver information is now presented in the main instrument cluster, eliminating the need for the previous high level supplementary display on top of the main fascia. This centralizes driver information and warning messages to a single zone, in the lower portion of the speedometer, improving communication as well as the aesthetics of the cockpit design.

For the same reason, the 'Profiler' facility, offering driver pre-sets for a wide range of functions is now operated via steering wheel buttons, instead of a push/select fascia knob, with on-screen prompts and selections shown in the main instrument display. Automatic climate control modes, the clock/alarm, speed scale illumination and, where fitted, the anti-theft alarm, parking assistance, rain sensitive wipers and heated seats can all be tailored in this way.

The main instrument dials and Saab-signature air vent controls are now also finished in matte chrome trim. The instrument graphics are given a sharper, clearer look, while another Saab-typical feature, green instrument illumination, is retained

All occupants benefit from dual- zone automatic climate control (ACC), which is now fitted as standard throughout the range. The simplified display panel features rotary controls and fewer buttons.

The rest of the interior is unchanged across the range, except for the addition of a matching trim insert on the glove box lid.

Infotainment improvements

A choice of three 'infotainment' systems is offered, each of which includes a CD player compatible with MP3 music discs. Also fitted as standard is an auxiliary audio input.

The standard 'Saab Infotainment' system includes an RDS radio and single-slot CD player, 'Saab Infotainment CD Changer' adds an in-dash 6-disc facility and 'Saab Infotainment Plus' includes a GPS satellite navigation system with a larger, 6.5 inch color touch-screen and voice control. In addition to a 'bird's eye view' map selection, direction arrows from the high position display are now shown on the touch-screen.

The enhanced audio range includes a new tailor-made Bose sound system, offered exclusively in the Sport Sedan. With two rear woofers and twin amplifiers, its performance is optimized for the acoustics of the sedan cabin, giving an impressive, expanded 'concert hall' sound reproduction. This system is identified by Bose branding embossed on the outer front speaker grilles.

Externally, the Model Year 2007 Sport Sedan and SportCombi range is distinguished by the introduction of a new dark gray 'Titan' metallic paint finish. A very pure 'Arctic White' solid color and a 'Smoke Beige' metallic finish are added to the Convertible palette. 'Electric Blue', which was introduced in 2006 for the Aero V6 Anniversary Edition, is now available throughout the Convertible range.

Posted by Frank at 10:57 PM | Comments (0)

Toyota Releases Environmental Update

What follows is Toyota's Environmental Update for June 2006, wherein the company laundry lists their initiatives to run a green operation:

Camry Hybrid and Yaris: two new Toyota cars tread more lightly on Planet Earth
Camry Hybrid with Hybrid Synergy Drive® and the subcompact Yaris are now on sale at Toyota dealerships. Camry Hybrid has an EPA estimated gas mileage rating of 40 mpg/38 mpg highway. Its powertrain features a 2.4-liter 147-hp four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine, a continuously variable transmission, and a high-torque 40-hp electric motor.

Camry Hybrid has been EPA certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), just one of a handful of cars to meet this high standard.

Yaris sedan and liftback models feature a 1.5-liter "variable valve timing with intelligence" (VVT-i) engine. Estimated EPA mileage ratings are 34 mpg city/40 mpg highway with manual transmission, and 34/39 with automatic. Yaris is rated by the ULEV II Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle, one of the EPA's cleanest ratings.

Awards: for hybrid powertrain, sustainability, and reduction in use of energy
For the third consecutive year, Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain has won the International Engine of the Year award as best 1.4- to 1.8-litre engine and Best Fuel Economy for its application in the Prius. The judges were 61 automotive journalists from 29 countries.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has honored Toyota with its Track-Maker Award for "leadership in corporate actions to promote sustainability."

Toyota Plaza, a portion of Toyota's Torrance, California headquarters campus, has won a second Flex Your Power award from California's statewide energy efficiency campaign. Toyota was recognized for cutting electricity use by 1.5 million kWh—more than 45% since 2000. Toyota used electronic lighting ballasts, window tinting, automated controls, and other methods to reduce power consumption.

Toyota Associates and community recycle e-waste on Earth Day
As part of the 2006 Earth Day celebrations, Toyota Associates recycled about 10 tons of electronic waste—a 30% increase over last year. More than 750 community visitors dropped off another 40 tons of electronic equipment. Recycled components will stay out of landfills and provide material for new products.

At Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada's Earth Day Family Event, visitors got a close-up look at wild birds at Toyota Nature Center's Wild Bird Clinic and participated in the planting of native vegetation.

Toyota supports environmental education in Kentucky
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America has donated $50,000 to Kentucky's Newport Aquarium's nonprofit arm, the WAVE Foundation. The funds will be used to subsidize Aquatic Adventures, the life science portion of the NavOps Deep Submergence program of the National Submarine Science Discovery Center. Fifth- and sixth-graders will learn about the
dependence of all living organisms on water through aquariums in classrooms plus visits to the Newport Aquarium and other locations.

Toyota reduces environmental impact in Canada
Based on suggestions by more than 2,500 Associates,Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada has significantly reduced waste and environmental impact. Torque tracking sheets are now sent and stored electronically rather than printed out, eliminating nearly 30 kg of paper. Optimization of truck routes has reduced CO2 emissions by 600 kg per day. Replacing flat-bottom tanks with sloped-bottom tanks and using sponges rather than water for cleaning have decreased water use during the inspection process by 94%. Emissions have been lowered more than 20% since 2004 with innovations that include using electrostatic spray guns, reclaiming solvents, installing failsafe valves to prevent leaks and overflows, and reprogramming robots to use paint and solvents more efficiently.

Posted by Frank at 10:49 PM | Comments (0)

Honda of Santa Monica Put on Probation for Bilking Customers

Honda of Santa Monica, having been caught running a scam where approximately 1,500 customers were bilked for a bogus option, will wind up paying about $1.4 million to customers and state offices for their transgressions, according to the Santa Monica Daily Press.

The scam, which ran for two and a half years, involved customers being charged for "theft etching" where vehicle parts were supposed to be tagged with an ID to help retrieve them in case of theft.

Reimbursement to customers will run from $100 to $1,000, for a potential total of over $800,000; the dealership laso has to pay the district attorney over $500,000 and the California DMV $75,000.

In addition, their business license is on probation and the company will be subject to six audits over the next five years.

The employees involved are no longer employed at the dealership.

For Car Buyer's Notebook readers, this is another in an occasional reminder to question EVERY SINGLE ITEM ON YOUR VEHICLE INVOICE.

Most charges are legit, most employees are just trying to earn a living just like you, but every once in a while we hear these stories of rogue employees taking customers to the cleaners.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 10:37 PM | Comments (0)

Introducing: The Putzmeister!

I nearly lost control of the vehicle between laughing and scrambling for the camera.

What is a Putzmeister?

Reluctantly bowing to the quest for truth, I discovered Putzmeister is a company that makes equipment for the concrete trade.

I prefer the slang. For exdample, the next time I see something cool and have forgotten my camera, I will henceforth refer to myself as "Putzmeister!"

Posted by Frank at 10:25 PM | Comments (0)

Not Your Average Treehugger

This lumber company truck is aptly nicknamed "treehugger" due to the huge metal arms that restrain all those dead trunks from spilling out on the highway.

Posted by Frank at 10:21 PM | Comments (0)

The Not So Humble Hummer Bee

This Hummer H2 owner believes in cognitive dissonance.

Posted by Frank at 10:20 PM | Comments (0)

J.D.Power: Hyundai Is The Highest Ranked Non-Premium Nameplate

Hyundai Tucson Earns Highest Initial Quality Ranking in its Segment

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- J.D. Power and Associates has announced that Hyundai is the highest ranked non-premium nameplate in the 2006 Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) and is ranked third among all nameplates. Hyundai owners had fewer problems with their vehicles than any other non-premium car or truck brand.

In addition to Hyundai’s strong overall showing, the Hyundai Tucson earned the trophy for the highest initial quality in the compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV) segment.

Hyundai ranks among the top three nameplates in the study for the first time in the history of IQS, according to the the 2006 Initial Quality Study issued by J.D. Power and Associates. Highlights include a top ranking for the Hyundai Tucson in the compact MAV segment, and top three segment performances for the redesigned Sonata and all-new Azera, as well as the Elantra and Tiburon.

The IQS study measures 217 attributes, including the overall driving experience, engine and transmission, and a broad range of defect and design problems reported by vehicle owners. Hyundai has been steadily improving its non-premium nameplate ranking, ranking third in 2005, up from fourth the previous year.

“Outperforming incredibly outstanding competitors at their own game for the first time in the same year is a major milestone for Hyundai,” said Owen Koh, Hyundai's President and CEO. “This ranking demonstrates what tremendous strides we’ve made in quality, especially with an almost entirely new model lineup. Also very impressive is how well Sonata scored right out of the gate from our new assembly plant and workforce in Alabama.”

The Hyundai Sonata ranked third in the highly competitive midsize car segment.
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA), which produces the Sonata and Hyundai Santa Fe, finished tenth in plant quality out of 73 plants in North/South America. HMMA’s North American plant introduction is among the best in the industry in the last decade.

Posted by Frank at 01:36 PM | Comments (0)

Honda Announces Tax Credits for Hybrids

Buyers are eligible for federal tax credits ranging from $1,300 for Accord Hybrid to $2,100 for Civic Hybrid

Customers who purchase a new 2006 Honda hybrid vehicle on or after January 1, 2006, may be eligible for federal tax credits ranging from $1,300 to $2,100 when they file their 2006 tax returns.

The announcement is the result of a ruling by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which calculated the tax credits based on the Energy Policy Act of 2005, passed by Congress last year. Honda's 2006 Civic Hybrid, Accord Hybrid and Insight with automatic transmission are eligible for the tax credits.

The federal tax credits are as follows:
Model Federal Tax Credit
2006 Civic Hybrid: $ 2,100
2006 Accord Hybrid: $ 1,300*
2006 Insight - automatic transmission: $1,450

*2006 Honda Accord Hybrids without updated control calibration qualify for a credit amount of $650.

Various limitations to the credit may apply, depending on the specific circumstances of the customer, and Honda is encouraging customers to contact the IRS or a tax advisor to determine if and how the tax credit will apply to their vehicle acquisition. Customers are also encouraged to contact the IRS at www.irs.gov for information on hybrid tax credit amounts applicable to Honda's 2005 model year hybrids purchased during 2006.

"These federal tax incentives reward consumers who make environmentally responsible purchasing decisions," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "Honda continues to be a leader in producing vehicles that set the standard for fuel economy and low emissions."

Posted by Frank at 01:33 PM | Comments (0)

Hyundai Launches Mobility Program/Assistance

Fountain Valley, Calif., June 5, 2006 - Hyundai Motor America announced today the launch of an initiative to support vehicle owners with special physical needs. Through the new Mobility Program, customers will be reimbursed up to $1,000 for new adaptive equipment installed in any new Hyundai vehicle leased or purchased through an authorized dealership.

“Hyundai is committed to offering all consumers access to the most sophisticated vehicle safety technologies. For example, we package Electronic Stability Control on more than 70 percent of the vehicles we sell, and Hyundai models consistently receive high marks for crashworthiness,” said John Krafcik, vice president of product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. “This assistance program will make it easier for drivers with special needs to purchase vehicles with the right combination of convenience, comfort and safety.”

According to research conducted by Louisiana Tech University, minivans and sedans make up the majority – 55.4 percent – of modified vehicles for the disabled. The most common modifications made by those with special physical needs include the use of lifts and lowered floors, as well as special steering and braking controls.

Hyundai vehicles feature unsurpassed standard safety technologies, outstanding cargo capacity and comfortable, ergonomic interior space making them well suited for drivers with special physical needs.

The all-new Entourage minivan, just launched this spring, recently earned the “Top Safety Pick” award by the IIHS – the best rating ever for a minivan. The Entourage was also the first Hyundai to receive a gold award for good crashworthiness ratings. In addition to outstanding safety features, Entourage boasts a generous 172 cubic feet of interior volume – more than Honda Odyssey.

The all-new Azera sedan is the most luxurious and well-equipped Hyundai model ever. Among its many features, Azera comes standard with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), eight standard airbags and active front head restraints. Azera also received the top crash test rating for frontal offset impacts by the IIHS.

Additionally, the 2006 Sonata was the industry’s first midsize sedan with standard ESC and six airbags, and received the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) five-star crash test rating for front and side impacts. Combined with its “class-above” interior space (categorized a “large car” by the United States EPA), Sonata is another outstanding option for drivers with special physical needs.

To qualify for the Hyundai Mobility Program, customers must have the adaptive equipment installed within six months of the Hyundai vehicle purchase or lease, and submit the claim form within 60 days of the completed installation. Qualifying adaptive equipment or conversion is defined as any aftermarket alteration or equipment installation that provides the user convenient access and/or the ability to drive the vehicle.

Posted by Frank at 01:27 PM | Comments (0)

Why Does GM Run LeMans?

The Corvette Racing team is on its way to France for the June 17 start of the world-famous 24 Hours of LeMans endurance race. Corvette has been the winner four out of the last five years. GM North America Vice President of Sales, Service, and Marketing Brent Dewar talked recently about the significance of a win at LeMans and why GM is into racing at all.

Posted by Frank at 01:24 PM | Comments (0)

2006 Kia Rio/Rio5 Wins J.D. Power Sub-Compact Car Category

IRVINE, Calif. - The 2006 Kia Rio/Rio5 ranked highest for initial quality in the sub-compact category in a tie according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS). The annual report, released today, measures 217 vehicle attributes across eight categories, including the driving experience, engine and transmission, and a broad range of quality problem symptoms reported by vehicle owners.

“ Rio is a class-leading subcompact vehicle and an excellent example of Kia’s continued dedication to offering consumers an affordable vehicle without sacrificing quality,” said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of Kia Motors America. “We're extremely pleased that the automotive industry and consumers alike recognize Rio’s high level of excellence.”

In the study, the Kia Rio was honored as the highest-ranking model in a tie in the sub-compact segment at 137 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). The all-new 2006 Kia Sedona minivan also performed well in its first year of release, while the Kia Sportage compact SUV scored better than the industry average.

The all-new 2006 Rio sedan and Rio5 five-door are raising the bar in the entry level segment by offering class-leading horsepower and interior volume, and six standard airbags, including full-length side-curtain airbags. The Rio and Rio5’s longer wheelbase and increased width and height contribute to a best-in-class 92.2 cubic feet of passenger room and both body styles feature a long list of standard equipment.

Posted by Frank at 01:21 PM | Comments (0)

Ford VP Explains Ethanol & Flex-Fuel Issues

Despite all the attention ethanol is receiving in the media these days, there are still a lot of questions in drivers' minds about what the fuel is, how it works, where they can find it and why they should care.

Sue Cischke, Ford's Vice President Environmental and Safety Engineering, recently sat down to provide some answers to those FFV and ethanol questions.

Q: What is a Flexible Fuel Vehicle?
A: Flexible Fuel Vehicles are designed to run on gasoline, E85, or any combination of the two. They are “flexible” because they give the driver the option to choose between gasoline or E85 when fueling an FFV vehicle. E85 is fuel made up of 15% gasoline and 85% ethanol. The vehicle's on-board computer determines which fuel is being used and adjusts the engine for proper operation.

Q: How do I know if my vehicle is a flex fuel vehicle?
A: Vehicles with flex fuel capabilities are marked in the vehicle description and fuel economy information boxes on their new vehicle window sticker and there is an ethanol fuel label on the inside of the fuel filler door. Vehicle owners can have their dealer check the Vehicle Identification Number to determine if it is an FFV. Owners can also go to the E85fuel.com website and check under E85 compatible vehicles. The site has information on all of the manufacturers' FFV makes and models.

Q: Why would I want to use ethanol?
A: Because U.S. ethanol comes from corn produced in America's heartland and is renewable.
This is one step we can take to lessen our dependence on foreign oil. At the same time, ethanol fuel has some advantages over gasoline such as lower emissions of greenhouse gases and higher octane. Another advantage is that Ford does not pass the added cost of an ethanol-capable vehicle onto the customer.

Q: But I've heard my gas mileage will suffer, is that true?
A: It is true you will get less mileage out of a gallon of E85 compared to a gallon of gasoline because there is less energy in a gallon of ethanol compared to gasoline. Mileage is reduced between 20% and 30%. The price of E85 is varies widely across the U.S. but when the cost of E85 is below the cost of gasoline, the economic equation may be worth it. Plus, as I've said, ethanol can help reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and it produces lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Q: Can I retrofit my current vehicle to run on ethanol?
A: No. Currently there are no OEM approved after-market conversion kits to convert gas only vehicles to flex fuel vehicles. It's important to keep in mind that FFVs have been specially designed to operate on E85. Their fuel systems have been upgraded to tolerate ethanol, and the on-board computer has been programmed to allow the vehicle to operate properly on both gasoline and E85. Non-FFVs do not have these special features, so trying to retrofit your non-FFV could damage your vehicle and could also impact your vehicle warranty.

Q: What FFV's does Ford produce?
A: We introduced four new flex fuel vehicles this year: Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Town Car, and America's best selling vehicle – the F-150. Ford has been producing E85 capable FFVs since the introduction of the FFV Taurus in 1996. We have produced more than 1.6 million FFVs since that time.

Q: Where can I find ethanol?
A: That can be a bit of a challenge. There are now less than 700 E85 fueling stations in the United States (see www.E85fuelcom for exact locations). That's out of a total of some 170,000 gasoline fueling stations nationwide.

We are trying to do our part to help change that and get ethanol to our customers. We have teamed with ethanol fuel providers such as VeraSun Energy Corporation, to establish a Midwest Ethanol Corridor. That partnership will mean new E85 pumps will be located along certain interstate highways in Missouri and Illinois, increasing the number of E85 stations by more than a third in those states, and allow FFV owners to make cross-state trips using only E85.

At the same time, we are asking Washington to step up and do its part to make ethanol more widely available. I have testified several times in support of incentives for stations to convert or install ethanol pumps where none exist now.

Q: And what about the oil companies, are they going to get involved?
A: We hope so. We think all the stakeholders, including the oil companies, have to get involved. We have called upon the oil industry to join us in our effort to diversify America's energy sources. We obviously need key partners like the oil industry to invest in developing and marketing renewable fuels like E85 – and we need it to do so now and rapidly. We fully support government incentives to encourage the industry and others to accelerate this investment.

Q: Ethanol isn’t really new, is it?
A: Actually, Henry Ford designed the first Model T to run on ethanol. He thought it would be the fuel of the future.

Q: Can you make ethanol out of anything other than corn?
A: Corn-based ethanol makes the most sense in the United States, at least for now. But there is a lot of work being done to find other materials to use as a base to produce ethanol including cellulosic materials like switch grass, wood waste, and other plant byproducts. In other parts of the world, ethanol is made from various feedstocks including sugarcane.

Q: How can a customer purchase an FFV?
A: Ask your dealer for a 2006 F-150 with engine code “99V,” which is the order code for an Ethanol capable 5.4L V-8. Also, the 2006 Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car and Mercury Grand Marquis are available with the FFV option.

Note: 2006 model year FFVs are not available in states with California emissions (CA, ME, MA, NY and VT).

Q: Can I operate my non-FFV on E85?
A: FFVs have been specially designed to operate on E85. Their fuel systems have been upgraded to tolerate ethanol, and the on-board computer has been programmed to allow the vehicle to operate properly on both gasoline and E85. Non-FFVs do not have these special features, so operating your non-FFV on E85 could damage it, could increase exhaust emissions, and may void the vehicle warranty.

Posted by Frank at 12:55 PM | Comments (0)

Ford Reflex Wins Concept Car Award

Yak not included.

Press release follows:

The 2006 Ford Reflex concept car took top honors Wednesday at the Ward's Auto Interiors Show.

The Reflex was named Specialty Concept Vehicle of the Year and Most Significant Concept Vehicle of the Year by the South East Automotive Media Organization (SEAMO). The Reflex was unveiled at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit

"This is the first concept vehicle in the five-year history of the program to be unanimously chosen as a top-three pick by every member of the jury," said Tom Kelley, executive director, SEAMO.

"It's just plain good-looking, and I think that's what got people's attention," said Patrick Schiavone, Design director, Trucks, who accepted the award.

The SEAMO awards recognize design, engineering and market responsiveness and are given to the concept vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry.

Does this mean we will be seeing the Reflex on the road at some point in the future?

"I certainly hope so," said Schiavone. "I really do believe that small is big, and we want to work on something that's very exciting in the B car segment in North America and I'd love to see something like this go into production."

Also receiving honors were the Aston Martin Rapide and the Volvo C30. Both vehicles shared the Production Preview Vehicle of the Year Award.

The Chevrolet Camaro was voted Concept Car of the Year, and the Dodge Rampage was recognized as Concept Truck of the Year.

Posted by Frank at 12:51 PM | Comments (0)

Did Somebody Say Price War?

Poornima Goopta of Reuters did. In this article she posits that due to falling domestic truck and SUV sales, plus the end of the model year [new vehicles come out in August], plus Ford's recent 0% interest & free gas promotion then the obvious next step will be a price war with escalating incentives.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 12:42 PM | Comments (0)

Analyst: GM and Ford Should Ditch Saab and Jaguar

We've heard these cheers from the death-mongers before, but Doron Levin makes a good point that resources being used for Saab and Jaguar could be used for Cadillac and Lincoln respectively.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 12:38 PM | Comments (0)

GM Through the Years -- New Book

Here's an excellent article/review of a book on the early history of General Motors and the two men who made it a reality, Billy Durant and Alfred Sloan.

Written by William Pelfrey, ``Billy, Alfred, and General Motors'' (Amacom, $27.95) sounds like an intriguing book and the article gives it a going over that sounds as if the reporter actually read the book.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 12:33 PM | Comments (0)

June 07, 2006

Guerilla Drive-In Theater!

Boy do we love this idea. There is a loosely unorganized band of projectionists running around the country hosting, "Guerilla Drive-In Theater" events, where a bunch of scragamuffins on their e-mail list get invited to 16mm movie showings, often on the side of building and barns.

Here's a link to the GDI, as it's called, of West Chester, PA.

This page takes you to the mother ship of American GDIs, where else, in subversive
Santa Cruz, Cali, and they even provide a handy-dandy anarcho-projectionist's cookbook, on this page.

The other thing we like about the West Chester GDI, is the organizer claims to run the movie projector from the sidecar rig pic'ed below, when it is not being used by Faster Pussy Cats Kill Kill Killing You With The Ultimate Watergun!

Posted by Frank at 03:19 PM | Comments (0)

Nissan Halts Sale of 2006 4-Cylinder Altimas and Sentra SE-Rs

Nissan has told its dealers to stop selling certain 2006 model year, four-cylinder Altimas and Nissan Sentra SE-Rs because of reports of excessive oil consumption while it continues to investigate potential causes.
The condition, if not detected or addressed properly, could lead to the potential for engine damage, or failure which could result in a fire in extreme cases. The National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration has been advised of Nissan’s action.

Nissan estimates that about 100,000 Altimas and Sentra SE-Rs built between January and May 2006 may be subject to excessive oil consumption. There have been about 215 reports of excessive oil consumption, mostly from rental-car fleets, and 17 reports of engine fires, resulting in one minor injury.

Nissan is aggressively working to find a definite cause and solution for the condition.

Nissan is advising owners of these vehicles that they should frequently check and maintain the engine oil level. If the engine oil level is kept at the proper level, there should be no engine damage and no risk of engine failure or a resulting fire. If the engine oil level is not registered at all on the dip stick, customers are urged to immediately add oil and bring their vehicle to a Nissan dealer.

In the interest of customer satisfaction, Nissan has extended the engine portion of the Powertrain Coverage of the vehicles’ warranty on Altimas and Sentra SE-Rs built during the January to May 2006 period to 84 months or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Posted by Frank at 03:15 PM | Comments (0)

PediCabs Come to NYC -- Video

BicyTaxi, a new pedicab company in NYC, is selling advertising and looking for pedalers, which is really the same thing. From this video it looks like the company is franchised from a European parent.

Check out all our YouTubettes at: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=carbuyersnotebook.

Posted by Frank at 03:08 PM | Comments (0)

The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift Mega Cool Xtreme Desktop

Coming out on June 16, the new Fast and the Furious movie, Tokyo Drift, has got the coolest website, screensaver and wallpapers I've seen yet for any movie, never mind a car flick.

The Xtreme desktop has links to trailers and videos and a built in countdown timer to the premiere date, as well as wallpaper downloads like the one above. Lots, lots more -- check it out!

Link.

Posted by Frank at 03:04 PM | Comments (0)

Subaru Sponsors of U.S. Women's Triathlon Series

Series supports Ovarian Cancer Research Fund

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- Subaru of America, Inc. is the title sponsor of the U.S. Women's Triathlon Series that benefits the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. The four-city national series is a one-of-a-kind, women only event that provides a supportive environment for women of all ages and athletic abilities, coupled with a weekend of fun. The events also serve as an opportunity to educate and raise awareness of ovarian cancer, and the associated research and treatments.

"Subaru is proud to be the title sponsor of the U.S. Women's Triathlon Series," said Rick Crosson, vice president, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Series provides women with the opportunity to get out and take part in a fun event that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle and benefits a very-worthy cause."

The four-city schedule of events begins this weekend and runs through October 15. The complete schedule is as follows:

June 11, 2006 St. Petersburg, Fla.
June 25, 2006 Naperville, Ill.
September 10, 2006 Federal Way, Wash.
October 15, 2006 San Diego, Calif.

For additional information or to register for an event, visit http://www.uswts.com/.

The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF) was founded in December 1994 by Sol Schreiber to honor the memory of his wife, Ann, a distinguished public administrator and her courageous five-year battle with ovarian cancer. OCRF is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization devoted to the formulation of early diagnostic treatment programs and research toward the ultimate conquest of ovarian cancer. As OCRF strives to find a cure, it also seeks to support patients and their loved ones in understanding this disease and its treatment as well as to provide outreach programs and raise public awareness. For additional information visit http://www.ocrf.org/.

Posted by Frank at 02:58 PM | Comments (0)

Lee Iacocca Releasing New Book

The world's most famous automotive CEO in history, Lee Iacocca, is writing a new book that will be released for Father's Day 2007. Titled, Where Have All the Leaders Gone?, in it Iacocca will tackle auto industry issues, foreign trade and probably his quest for a cure for diabetes which claimed his wife's life.

Press release after the jump.

NEW YORK -- Scribner, an imprint of the Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Division, will publish a new book by New York Times bestselling author and legendary business icon Lee Iacocca in time for Father's Day 2007. The book, titled "WHERE HAVE ALL THE LEADERS GONE?" will showcase Iacocca's forthright and provocative opinions on a series of topics that are critical to the future of America and its citizens.

Iacocca asks and addresses questions on leadership in government and business, what happened to the American automotive industry, the relationship between America and its allies, the challenge to America from China and India, and the future for American workers and their families. It's a no-nonsense perspective on what's wrong -- and how to fix it.

Jack Romanos, President and CEO of Simon & Schuster, Inc., acquired world rights to "WHERE HAVE ALL THE LEADERS GONE?," which will be edited by Scribner Senior Editor Colin Harrison. Terms of the publishing agreement were not announced.

The acquisition reunites Iacocca and Romanos, who as author and publisher collaborated on Iacocca's first book, "IACOCCA: An Autobiography" (1984.) The book sold more than six and a half million copies, made publishing history, was published in seventeen countries and broke bestseller records around the world. Mr. Iacocca's second book, "Talking Straight" (1988), was also published to great success, and spent more than seven months on the New York Times bestseller list.

"Lee Iacocca is our country's most beloved business leader, the author of one of the bestselling autobiographies of all time, and is trusted by millions of Americans," said Romanos. "His opinions -- on a wide variety of current affairs -- matter, and readers will respond to both his wisdom, which was forged in the crucible of an exemplary career in American business and public service, and the straightforward manner which has made him so phenomenally popular."

"I'm writing this book because I flunked retirement," said Iacocca. "There is too much happening in the world and too much to be done to sit on the sidelines. I hope that with this book I can engage others to take action to address the myriad challenges we face at home and abroad. This is urgent. We are a great people with a great history and yet we need to wake up and make changes."

In the years since leaving the Chrysler Corporation, Iacocca has turned his visionary thinking to pinpoint issues which have become this generation's crises. He established the Iacocca Institute at Lehigh University in 1988 to understand the effects of globalization; he's raised millions for the Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Foundation knowing the central role immigration has played in creating the strength and diversity of the American people. Mr. Iacocca is also Chairman of the Advisory Board of Nourish the Children, a global program to alleviate hunger in children.

His driving force in life is to find a cure for diabetes. He continues to support innovative research that, in 2003 successfully cured the disease in mice. A grassroots campaign to raise funds continues in order to translate this research to human clinical trials.

Last year the Chrysler Corporation featured Iacocca in a well-received series of television advertisements. The commercials helped Chrysler Group, now part of DaimlerChrysler, sell a record 240,146 vehicles in July, a 32% jump over July 2004.

"The audience response to him was passionate and immediate," noted Romanos. "Lee connects with viewers of all ages, and is fondly remembered from his earlier days as Chrysler CEO and spokesperson."

"We're delighted that Mr. Iacocca is bringing his optimism, enthusiasm, and thought-provoking insights to Scribner," said Susan Moldow, Executive Vice President and Publisher. "He's refreshing and honest, and I'm confident that readers will find these new observations enormously rewarding."

Posted by Frank at 02:45 PM | Comments (0)

Lexus and Toyota Dominate J.D. Power Awards

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. — The way in which technology is integrated into new-vehicle design, particularly interior features and controls, is considered by consumers to be as important to quality as are defects and malfunctions, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) released today. The study is in its 20th year.

The Initial Quality Study, which serves as the industry benchmark for new-vehicle quality measured at 90 days of ownership, has been completely redesigned for 2006 to capture problems experienced by owners in two distinct categories—quality of design and quality of production (defects and malfunctions).

“New vehicles today are often packed with new technologies that unfortunately can be complicated and frustrating for the average consumer when their integration is not well executed,” said Joe Ivers, executive director of quality and customer satisfaction research for J.D. Power and Associates. “In the eyes of consumers, design flaws can have as much of an impact on their perceptions of quality as can a defect. Yet, many manufacturers have tended to address quality solely on the plant floor without considering design factors.”

Based on both design quality and production quality considerations, the study finds that automakers can vary widely in their performance on these two components. Brands with the fewest defects and malfunctions include BMW, Chrysler, Hyundai, Lexus, Porsche and Toyota. Brands with the fewest design problems include GMC, Hyundai, Jaguar, Lexus, Nissan and Porsche.

“Without considering both quality factors, one might fail to recognize vehicles that are, in fact, excellent in certain ways,” said Ivers. “For example, BMW vehicles have among the fewest defects and malfunctions, along with Toyota. But BMW approaches controls and displays in a way that creates some problems for customers, leading to more design-related problems overall than Toyota incurs. Automakers differ significantly in how they define quality and what parts of the organization they hold accountable for it. Clearing both critical quality hurdles is an accomplishment experienced by only a limited number of brands.”

2006 IQS Ranking Highlights

Lexus and Toyota models continue to dominate initial quality rankings, capturing 11 out of 19 segment awards in 2006. Lexus models rank highest in every segment in which they compete. In addition, the LS 430 ties the Porsche Cayman for having the fewest quality problems in the industry. Other top-ranking Lexus models include: IS 250/IS 350, ES 330, SC 430, GX 470 and LX 470.

Toyota remains a quality benchmark, capturing five model-level awards—for the Corolla, Solara, Camry, Highlander and Sequoia—more than any other non-luxury brand.

Porsche and Lexus lead the luxury brands, while Hyundai, Toyota and Honda set the pace among non-luxury brands. Averaging just 91 problems per 100 (PP100) vehicles, Porsche tops the overall nameplate rankings. Porsche’s success can be partly attributed to the all-new Cayman, which tops the compact premium sporty car segment. Porsche is followed in the rankings by Lexus, Hyundai, Toyota and Jaguar, respectively.

Hyundai ranks among the top three nameplates in the study for the first time in the history of IQS. Highlights include a top ranking for the Hyundai Tucson in the compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV) segment, and top-three segment performances for the redesigned Sonata and all-new Azera, as well as the Elantra and Tiburon.

Honda also maintains its position as a quality leader. Although Honda does not receive any awards outright, five Honda models rank among the top three of their respective segments.

Other nameplates receiving model awards in 2006 include Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, Kia, Mazda, Pontiac and Suzuki.

Assembly Plant Awards

Toyota receives a total of four assembly plant quality awards for producing vehicles yielding the fewest defects, including the Platinum Plant Quality Award for its Iwate, Japan, plant, producer of the Lexus ES 330. The Iwate plant averages just 32 PP100. Plant awards are based solely on scores for defects.

Among North and South American plants, the General Motors Oshawa #2 plant in Ontario, Canada, which produces the Buick LaCrosse and Pontiac Grand Prix, receives the Gold Plant Quality Award for a second consecutive year. Toyota’s Georgetown, Ky., plant, which produces the Avalon, Camry and Solara Coupe/Convertible, and DaimlerChrysler’s Windsor, Ontario, Canada plant, which produces the Pacifica, Town & Country, Caravan and Grand Caravan, tie for the Silver Plant Quality Award.

In the Asia Pacific region, Toyota’s Higashi-Fuji, Japan, plant, which produces the Lexus SC 430, receives the Silver Plant Quality Award. Toyota’s Kyushu, Japan, plant, which produces the Lexus IS 250/IS 350, Lexus RX 330/400h and Toyota Highlander/Highlander Hybrid, and American Honda’s Saitama, Japan, plant, which produces the Acura RL, Acura TSX and Honda CR-V, tie for the Bronze Plant Quality Award.

Magna Steyr, the Graz, Austria, plant that assembles under contract for traditional manufacturers, receives the Gold Plant Quality Award for Europe. Magna Steyr produces the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz E-Class/Wagon and the Saab 9-3 Convertible. BMW’s Dingolfing, Germany, plant, which produces the BMW 5, 6 and 7 Series, receives the Silver Plant Quality Award, and Porsche’s Valmet, Finland, plant, which produces the Cayman and Boxster, receives the Bronze Plant Quality Award.

The 2006 Initial Quality Study is based on responses from 63,607 purchasers and lessees of new 2006 model-year cars and trucks surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The redesigned IQS is based on a new 217-question battery—up from 135 in previous years—to provide manufacturers with richer information to improve problem determination and drive product improvement. The study also groups models in a revised J.D. Power and Associates vehicle segmentation list.

The 2006 study has been redesigned for the first time since 1998. Improvements to the study include:

* An enhanced questionnaire for owners to aid in identification of both defect and design problems
* Expanded coverage of new technologies
* Additional details about the problems reported to help OEMs better identify how to address them

Posted by Frank at 01:43 PM | Comments (0)

Kia Sedona and Subaru Impreza Earn Top Safety Picks

Crash tests of small cars & minivans: 2 earn the Institute's Top Safety Pick award; 1st Institute test results for Prius hybrid

ARLINGTON, VA — The Kia Sedona and Subaru Impreza are the best performers in a group of minivans and small cars recently evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Sedona is the first minivan to earn the Institute's Top Safety Pick award, and the Impreza is only the second small car design to earn this award. Both vehicles earn gold awards for good crashworthiness ratings.

The Institute also evaluated the Toyota Prius hybrid's front, side, and rear crashworthiness plus the side crashworthiness of three other vehicle designs — the Mini Cooper (small car) and Dodge Grand Caravan and Chevrolet Uplander (minivans). Results for these vehicles update the results for minivan and small car models that were released last year. Side tests of the Grand Caravan, Uplander, Mini Cooper, and Impreza were delayed at the request of the vehicle manufacturers, who were making changes to improve crashworthiness.

Sedona is top-rated minivan: Among the eight current minivan designs the Institute has rated, the Sedona is the only one that earns good ratings in all three Institute tests (this vehicle also will be sold as the 2007 Hyundai Entourage later this spring). The new Sedona's frontal crash test performance is an improvement compared with the previous model, which the Institute rated acceptable.

"The Sedona is the best minivan we've tested," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "Other minivans have earned good front and side ratings, but they haven't achieved a satisfactory level of rear crash protection. The Sedona stands out as the first to get a clean sweep of good ratings across the board."

In the frontal test, the Sedona's structure held up well. There was little intrusion into the occupant compartment. The dummy's movement was well controlled, and injury measures were low. In the side test, curtain-style airbags prevented the heads of driver and rear passenger dummies from contacting the intruding barrier. The Sedona is one of five current minivan models with standard side airbags designed to protect the heads of people in all three rows of seats. For protection in rear impacts, the Sedona is a standout. Its seat/head restraints protect front-seat occupants' necks.

"Many manufacturers haven't paid as much attention to occupant protection in rear crashes, compared with front and side crashes," Lund points out. "Kia deserves credit for designing the Sedona's seat/head restraints for protection in one of the most common kinds of commuter traffic crashes."

The Kia is the only minivan the Institute has evaluated that's equipped with active head restraints. These are designed to move up and toward the back of the head during a rear impact. As an occupant's torso sinks into the Kia seat during a rear-end crash, a mechanism in the seatback is designed to move the head restraint so it's more likely to be in a good position to catch the head, keeping it and the torso moving together.

The most common kind of injuries reported from crashes are neck injuries, and these are most likely to occur in rear impacts. Whiplash is the most serious injury reported in about 2 million insurance claims each year. Such claims cost at least $8.5 billion annually.

Subaru is a gold standard among small cars: Just as manufacturers made major improvements in how their vehicles protect people in frontal crashes, now they're making similar improvements for side and rear impact protection. Subaru reinforced the pillar behind the rear passenger door and upgraded the side airbags to standard in the 2006 Impreza. This car also has head restraints that do a better job than those in other small cars. The Impreza is a good performer in all three Institute tests (front, side, and rear) and earns the gold TOP SAFETY PICK award. Its results also apply to the Saab 9-2X, which is based on the Impreza design.

"Subaru was one of the manufacturers that last year asked us to delay side testing because of vehicle design changes that were in progress," Lund says. "It's not uncommon for us to grant such requests as long as the design changes will be made in production models within a reasonable time. The goal of our crash test program is to encourage these kinds of improvements to reduce injury risk in real-world crashes."

Top Safety Pick winners represent an elite fraction of the car market. Winners of the gold award have earned good ratings in the Institute's frontal offset and side impact tests, and their seat/head restraints are rated good for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. Awards are by vehicle size because both size and weight influence occupant protection in serious crashes. Larger, heavier vehicles generally afford more protection than smaller, lighter ones. The Top Safety Pick award indicates a better choice for safety within a size class, but a small car that earns this award doesn't necessarily afford better protection than a larger car that doesn't.

First Institute test of a hybrid: The Toyota Prius was a good performer in the frontal crash test and, equipped with optional side airbags, also good in the side test. But it's rated marginal for seat/head restraint design, so it isn't a Top Safety Pick. The movement of the driver dummy was reasonably well controlled during the frontal test. Although the dummy's head did hit the pillar between the doors and the roof rail, head accelerations were low. Other injury measures also were low, and the Prius's structure held up with minimal intrusion into the occupant compartment.

"The way a hybrid model earns the top rating in the frontal test is the same way any other car does," Lund says. "Its front structure has to crush to absorb crash energy, and it has to have a safety cage that stays intact so the safety belts and airbags can protect the occupants."

The Institute conducted two side tests of the Prius, with and without its optional head-protecting side airbags. Without the airbags the Prius earns the lowest rating of poor. The intruding barrier struck the driver dummy's head. Measures recorded during the crash indicate that a serious skull fracture and brain injuries would be likely to occur in a real-world crash of similar severity.

"The result for the Prius with its optional side curtain airbags was dramatically different," Lund says. "This time the airbag kept the dummy's head from being struck by the barrier, and injury measures all were low. These results show the importance of head-protecting side airbags in reducing the risks for car occupants, especially when their vehicles are struck in the side by a pickup or SUV."

Another important aspect of crashworthiness is how well seat/head restraints protect people from whiplash in rear impacts. The ones in the Prius earn the second lowest rating of marginal. They can be positioned high enough and close enough to the backs of most people's heads, but good geometry alone isn't enough to provide adequate protection from whiplash. Seats and head restraints have to work together to protect the neck, and the Institute's test indicates that in a real-world crash the seats in the Prius wouldn't keep the forces on the neck as low as in other vehicles.

When a vehicle is struck in the rear and driven forward, the vehicle seats accelerate the occupants' torsos forward. Unsupported, their heads will lag behind the forward movement of their torsos. This differential motion causes the neck to bend back and stretch. The higher the torso acceleration the more sudden the motion, the higher the forces on the neck, and the more likely a neck injury is to occur.

"If a seat is too stiff, without enough 'give' to it so a person sinks into it during a crash, then the head restraint can move back and away from the head. This can lead to higher forces on the neck, and whiplash injury is more likely," Lund notes.

For most vehicles with hybrid variants, the Institute's ratings apply to both the hybrid and conventional versions. These vehicles include the Honda Civic and Accord, Lexus RX, and Toyota Highlander. The Prius is sold only as a hybrid.

Uplander minivan is poor performer in side test: The Institute tested the Chevrolet Uplander with and without its optional side airbags (results apply to similar Buick, Pontiac, and Saturn models). In both tests there were problems with the seats in the middle row. With the optional side airbags, all four attachment points for the seat occupied by the rear passenger dummy completely dislodged. The seat broke free. In the second test without side airbags, one attachment point released and a second one broke, allowing partial separation of the seat from the floor.

"This didn't worsen the injury measures recorded on the rear dummy, but a real person in a more complicated real-world crash might not fare as well. Seats should stay attached because they're part of the restraint system, and in real crashes vehicles may roll over or be hit again," Lund explains. If this hadn't happened, the Uplander with optional side airbags would earn a rating of acceptable for protection in side impacts. The seat problem downgrades the rating to marginal. Without the optional side airbags, the Uplander is poor regardless of the seat problem.

General Motors engineers have identified a fix for the seats and shown the Institute promising data from a prototype test. When this change has been made in production models, the Institute will test the Uplander again and report the results.

Optional side airbags improve performance of Dodge Grand Caravan: The side test of this minivan was delayed from last year because the manufacturer was working on changes to improve its performance. Beginning with 2006 models (built after December 2005), side airbags were updated, roof and side structures were strengthened, and interior door trim was changed. In the test without optional side curtain airbags, the intruding barrier struck the driver dummy's head. While this didn't produce high injury measures, vehicles should be designed to prevent people's heads from being struck by intruding vehicles, trees, poles, etc.

In contrast, the Grand Caravan with its optional side airbags is rated good for head protection. The curtain-style airbags deploy from above the windows to protect people in all three rows of seats.

"In a side impact, the only thing between the driver and an intruding object is the door and side window. This contrasts with a serious frontal crash, in which the whole length of a vehicle's front end crushes to help protect the people riding in the occupant compartment," Lund points out. "Because there's so little other protection in side crashes, the airbags are especially important. They can provide enough of a cushion to prevent the most serious injuries or reduce their severity."

How vehicles are evaluated: The Institute's frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Each vehicle's overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.

Each vehicle's overall side evaluation is based on performance in a crash test in which the side of the vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on two instrumented SID-IIs dummies, assessment of head protection, and the vehicle's structural performance during the impact. Injury measures recorded on two dummies, one in the driver seat and the other in the rear seat behind the driver, are used to determine the likelihood that the driver and/or passenger in a real-world crash would have sustained serious injury to various body regions. The movements and contacts of the dummies' heads during the crash also are evaluated. Structural performance is based on measurements indicating the amount of B-pillar intrusion into the occupant compartment.

Rear crash protection is rated according to a two-step procedure. Starting points are measurements of head restraint geometry — the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average-size man. Seats with good or acceptable restraint geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck. This test simulates a collision in which a stationary vehicle is struck in the rear at 20 mph. Seats without good or acceptable geometry are rated poor overall because they cannot be positioned to protect many people.

Posted by Frank at 12:53 PM | Comments (0)

New Vehicles Spend Less Time on Dealership Lots

Power Information Network Reports: Despite Higher Transaction Prices, New Vehicles Spend Less Time On Dealership Lots

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. —For the first time in three years, the average days to turn (the number of days a vehicle sits on a dealership lot) for the new-vehicle retail market has consistently been less than 60 days, even as new-vehicle transaction prices rise, according to real-time retail transaction data from the Power Information Network (PIN), a division of J.D. Power and Associates. To better reflect consumer activity related to new-vehicle sales, PIN data includes retail transactions only and does not include fleet.

While days to turn varies from one vehicle manufacturer to another, the average days to turn for the industry has been less than 60 days in each of the past eight months, from September 2005 through April 2006. The previous time period this occurred was from June 2002 through January 2003. Although new vehicles are spending less time on the lot, transaction prices (vehicle price less customer cash rebates) have increased when compared to the same month a year ago for 23 consecutive months since June of 2004.

“The steady increase in the price buyers paid for their new vehicles and ongoing low days to turn both lend themselves to increased profitability for the retailer and the manufacturer,” said Tom Libby, senior director of industry analysis at PIN. “Despite the doom and gloom we frequently read about—perceived rising fuel prices, global political uncertainty and struggling domestic auto manufacturers—the data show that in some respects, the U.S. new-vehicle industry is doing well.”

At the segment level, the turn rate for some segments is particularly low. In April, the entry compact car segment had an average days to turn of only 38 days, due in part to the successful launches of the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit. Premium compact cars sat on dealer lots an average of 44 days, benefiting from the success of the newly launched Dodge Caliber, the redesigned 2006 Honda Civic, the 2006 Chevrolet HHR and the Toyota Prius, among others. At the other end of the price spectrum, the premium luxury car segment had an average turn rate of just 35 days in April, with the BMW 7-Series and redesigned Mercedes-Benz S-Class having exceptionally low turn rates.

The recent increase in new-vehicle transaction prices can be partially attributed to a gradual decline in the use of customer cash rebates. The average rebate has declined every month this year when compared with the same month a year ago. Additionally, the percentage of transactions including a rebate has also decreased slightly in every month. In April 2005, for example, 57 percent of transactions included a rebate. In April 2006, however, 53 percent of transactions included a rebate.

“The absence of excessive inventory—which has plagued automakers in recent years—could mean that the mid-year incentive programs that have occurred in the past to drive sales will not be necessary this year,” said Bob Schnorbus, chief economist of global forecasting at J.D. Power and Associates. “While this is positive for the industry, it may not be good for consumers who are anticipating generous incentives when shopping for a new vehicle this summer.”

Posted by Frank at 12:50 PM | Comments (0)

Cadillac Escalade and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Top Theft List

ARLINGTON, VA — Versions of the 2003-05 Cadillac Escalade, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, and Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab pickup have the highest rates of insurance theft claims. The 3 vehicles have claim rates 4 to 5 times the average for all vehicles. These are the latest theft loss results for passenger vehicles 1 to 3 years old published by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), an affiliate of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Overall losses for pickups have increased sharply since 1999. This is mainly because of high theft claims for the Dodge Ram and Ford F-250/350. In contrast, losses for cars and SUVs increased slightly in 2003-04 but declined in 2005. The rate of theft of pickups in 2005 was nearly twice as high as for cars or SUVs.

This is the fourth year in a row that the Escalade has topped the list of vehicles most likely to have a theft claim. In fact, 4 versions of the Escalade (EXT, a specialty pickup, plus 2- and 4-wheel-drive versions of the short- and long-wheelbase Escalade SUVs) head the list of the worst overall insurance losses for theft among all passenger vehicles. The EXT has overall theft losses that are 16 times higher than the average.

"The overall results show the Escalade has not only the highest rate of claims but also very expensive claims when they are filed," says Kim Hazelbaker, HLDI senior vice president. "In fact, almost one-quarter of theft claims for the Escalade are for $40,000 or more, indicating that thieves often are stealing the whole vehicles and not just their parts."

The Escalade's theft losses have been the highest in recent years even though this vehicle is equipped with a standard antitheft ignition immobilizer. An immobilizer is built into a vehicle's electronic ignition system. It's supposed to prevent the vehicle from being started without the proper key.

Cadillac redesigned the Escalade for 2007 and upgraded its antitheft system. It's too soon to know if the new model will have a lower theft rate than the previous ones.

The high-performance Lancer Evolution is new this year to the list of vehicles with the highest theft losses. Investigators say this model may be attracting the attention of thieves because its parts can be used to customize standard Lancers.

Geographic differences in theft losses across the United States: HLDI's findings show that vehicle models with high overall theft losses vary by geographic area. For example, the Dodge Stratus and its twins, Chrysler Sebring and Plymouth Breeze, have very high losses in and around Washington, DC. Losses also are high for the 2003 Nissan Maxima and for the Lexus RX 330 in areas in and around New York City. Results for the Maxima and Lexus are believed to be associated with their expensive Xenon headlights.

HLDI results are the only reported theft results based on the number of insured vehicles on the road. Information on theft losses published by the National Insurance Crime Bureau and CCC Information Services doesn't take into account how many of each vehicle are insured, so the most popular vehicles on the road tend to top these organizations' lists of most-stolen vehicles. In contrast, HLDI identifies vehicles with the worst theft losses by counting the number of claims by make and model relative to the number of each make and model insured, indicating which vehicles are most likely to be targets.

Long-term trends: Overall theft losses, stated as average loss payments per insured vehicle year, reflect both how often theft claims are filed for a particular vehicle and the cost of the claims. Since 1980 theft claim frequencies have declined while average insurance payments per theft claim have increased. However, these trends have leveled off in recent years. The result is that since the mid-1990s overall theft losses have declined by about 25 percent.

Posted by Frank at 12:47 PM | Comments (0)

Toyota Prius Worldwide Sales Top 500,000 Mark

Toyota Motor Corporation has announced that the Toyota Prius, the world's first mass-produced gas-electric hybrid vehicle, has surpassed one-half million worldwide cumulative sales with 504,700 units sold as of the end of April.

Toyota launched the Prius in late 1997 in Japan. Its popularity in Japan encouraged the launch of Prius in the U.S. in July 2000. The first-generation U.S. Prius was a low-volume unit (12,000 produced annually) that gained an immediate following, particularly among environmentally conscious consumers. The second-generation U.S. model was launched in the fall of 2003 as a 2004 model year.

The all-new 2004 Prius came with larger dimensions, all-new styling, and featured Hybrid Synergy Drive, Toyota's newest hybrid technology. Heavy consumer demand for the Prius triggered multiple increases in production. By 2005 Toyota was producing over 100,000 units annually for the U.S. market. Prius had propelled itself from a niche environmental car into the mainstream car market. In 2005, calendar year sales of Prius in the U.S. reached more than 107,000 units sold, making Prius the third-best selling Toyota passenger car after the Camry and Corolla.

From its humble beginnings in the summer of 2000 through May of 2006, 266,212 Prius have been sold in the U.S., making up more than half of all Prius sold worldwide. Even with production increases, continued heavy consumer demand still presents challenges for Toyota as days supply figures for Prius remain in single digits.

Posted by Frank at 12:45 PM | Comments (0)

2006 Chevy Police Tahoe

Introduced during the 2005 model year, the Chevrolet Police Tahoe greatly extended the reach and flexibility of law enforcement agencies, by allowing them to go places and do things that are difficult to do with a typical sedan.

The two-wheel drive Police Tahoe is designed for high speed and severe duty law enforcement use, making Police Tahoe an ideal alternate selection for day-to-day patrol, K9 Unit use, SWAT, and various other applications where rear-wheel drive and versatility are a high priority,” said Bruce Wiley, General Motors manager of law enforcement and specialty vehicles.

Police Tahoe delivers plenty of performance – 295 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 330 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm from the standard 5.3L V-8. The 5300 Vortec can operate on fuel that contains up to 85 percent ethanol. In addition, E85 reduces our nation’s reliance on fossil fuels and it’s a clean, renewable resource that benefits our farmers, since it’s derived from corn

The powertrain is revised to accelerate more quickly and the fuel cut-off limit is increased to 125 mph. It’s mated to a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.

Because of the high speeds typically encountered by law enforcement vehicles, Tahoe Police gets H-rated tires (compared to S-rated on production models). It also receives a heavy-duty suspension, heavy-duty cooling and Hydroboost brakes with ABS, providing added safety with more reserve power assist for braking under specific conditions. The system will continue to provide sufficient power assist to stop the vehicle if the engine stalls or is turned off.

For an additional level of safety, security and peace of mind, all 2005 Police Tahoe models feature a tire pressure monitor, alerting the driver if any of the tires begins to lose air pressure.

For underbody protection, Police Tahoe features a Skid Plate Package that includes an aluminum front underbody shield that starts behind the front bumper and runs to the first cross-member. The Skid Plate Package protects such vital vehicle components as the oil pan and other key drivetrain components.

A 26-gallon fuel tank, 160-amp alternator, a heavy-duty 770 CCA battery with run-down protection and extended-life spark plugs are included as standard equipment on Police Tahoe.

Chevrolet Police Tahoe mechanical enhancements for 2006 include:

* Moving the catalytic converters closer to the engine to meet improved emissions performance guidelines
* New manual park brake adjuster, which offers enhanced performance compared with the previous system

Tahoe has a full complement of safety and security features, starting with dual-stage frontal air bags for supplemental protection for front-seat occupants. Dual-stage frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of air bag-induced injury. When the air bag system’s control unit detects an impact, it determines whether the crash is severe enough to trigger a deployment, and whether the primary amount of inflation is sufficient. The primary stage alone will deploy in most frontal impacts requiring the supplemental protection of an air bag, while a secondary stage is designed to deploy in more severe frontal collisions.

The Tahoe also has GM’s Passenger Sensing System (PSS). PSS uses the latest sensing technology to turn the front passenger air bag on or off. If the sensor system detects an unoccupied front passenger seat or the presence of a smaller occupant, the front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn off so it would not deploy in the event of a frontal collision. A status indicator on the instrument panel alerts occupants that the passenger air bag is on or off. Even with this system, GM strongly recommends to restrain child passengers in an appropriate child seat placed in the second or third row of the vehicle. Never install a rear-facing infant seat in front of an active air bag. GM also recommends that all children 12 and under ride in the rear seat when possible.

Side-impact air bags for the driver and front outboard passenger are available.

Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Hydroboost, a feature that provides more reserve power assist for braking under specific conditions, are standard. The system continues to provide sufficient power assist to stop the vehicle if the engine stalls or is turned off, by using power steering fluid pressure to decrease brake pedal effort.

“Since September 11, 2001 , the operating methodologies of police and fire municipalities have changed. They are looking at new and innovative ways to utilize police and emergency response vehicles, to carry more equipment, expand communication capability, and address issues created by the need to carry tactical and hazardous material gear,” Wiley added. “The Chevrolet Police Tahoe is capable of meeting the rigors of all these needs.”

Even with its second-row seats fully upright, Police Tahoe delivers an incredible 63.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity for such items as gun cases, haz-mat equipment and other gear and materials that law enforcement officers may require to perform their tasks. The second row seats may be individually folded forward, adding even more cargo capacity. Second-row seats come with inboard headrests and reclining seatbacks. With both second-row seats folded, Police Tahoe delivers a cavernous 104 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

A number of municipalities are turning to vehicles such as the Chevrolet Police Tahoe because it’s a fiscally responsible proposition. Although their initial cost is higher than if they purchased a sedan, they actually come out ahead financially in the long term.

“A vehicle such as our Police Tahoe has a longer lifecycle and is more durable than a conventional sedan because it’s engineered to better handle the day-to-day situations that law enforcement agencies impose on their vehicles. Plus, Police Tahoe will return a higher residual value (than a police sedan),” explained Wiley.

The Police Tahoe joins the Chevrolet Impala Police Vehicle, Chevrolet Tahoe Special Services, Chevrolet Express Prisoner Transport Van, and the Hummer H1 Tactical Unit in GM’s lineup of law enforcement vehicles. Every vehicle GM offers to law enforcement agencies is “road ready,” meaning they can be delivered completely equipped and ready for use.

Posted by Frank at 12:00 PM | Comments (0)

Hyundai Azera Wins Forbes.Com Award

Forbes.com has named the Hyundai Azera 'Best Luxurious Car for a Nonluxury Price' in the 2006 "Best Cars for the Bucks" list. Forbes.com editors praised the Azera's powerful engine, styling, interior volume and other standard upscale amenities, offered at a sticker price well below other premium brands.

"Azera is our flagship - with segment-leading standard safety technologies like Electronic Stability Control and eight airbags, a clean, fuel-efficient, powerful 3.8L V6 engine, and a bigger passenger cabin than the BMW 760i," said John Krafcik, vice president of product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "This recognition from Forbes.com, along with AutoPacific recently awarding Azera the Vehicle Satisfaction Award for a large car, demonstrates we're succeeding in raising the bar for value for customers in all vehicle segments."

In compiling this year's list of the best deals, the editors at Forbes.com evaluated vehicles based on sticker price and the level of power, comfort, safety and accident-avoidance technology, reliability and build quality.

The Toyota Avalon and Buick Lucerne CXL were also ranked second and third respectively as Best Luxurious Car for a Nonluxury Price. Other vehicles recognized by Forbes.com included:

* Best Car for the Bucks Overall - Honda Civic ·
* Best Pickup for the Bucks: Ford F-150 ·
* Best SUV for the Bucks: Toyota RAV4 ·
* Best Convertible for the Bucks: Mazda MX-5 Miata ·
* Best Deal on a Luxury Car: BMW 3 Series ·
* Best Premium Vehicle for the Bucks: Acura RL ·
* Best Bargain Supercar: Chevrolet Corvette Z06

Posted by Frank at 11:41 AM | Comments (0)

Chevy Sponsors Habitat For Humanity Home In Houston

Chevy employees are pitching in this week to build a home for a family originally from New Orleans who has now decided to make Houston their home. The home is being sponsored by Chevy in honor of the 12th anniversary of the Essence [Magazine] Music Festival.

A number of volunteers – many of them celebrities – will build the home, which is on the north east side of Houston in the Greensbrook subdivision.

“As a sponsor of the Essence Music Festival for the past seven years, we felt a deep need to help rebuild the area hit so severely by last year’s hurricanes,” says Bridget McCarville, Chevy’s multicultural promotions manager. “Chevrolet has a long-time commitment of giving back to the community, and after the hurricanes of last year we felt a deep need to do something positive in the region.”

Chevy is working with members of the Essence team, national journalists, members of the Hip Hop group Slum Village, Houston Habitat for humanity and volunteers from area Houston Chevy dealers to build the home.

“We heard that gulf area residents were facing housing issues, and it became apparent to our team that we had to take action. We would build a home to make a difference in the life of a family displaced by Katrina,” explains McCarville.

Posted by Frank at 11:36 AM | Comments (0)

Land Rover Navigation Does a Herculean Job

Have you seen the Land Rover LR3 commercial where they claim it helped guide a plane from Nice to Corsica? To understand fully what they're implying, you may want to view the documentary at this page.

Essentially, a pilot sat in the driver's seat of the LR3 and spoke to the guys in the cockpit of a Hercules aircraft, using data from the SUV's nav system to get the aircraft to its destination. The LR3 beat the advice we heard one pilot give to another once, "when you see the first ocean, make a left."

Anyway, we're big fans of nav systems here at the Notebook, since we don't always pay attention to where we're going and from personal experience the Land Rover's is cherry.

Posted by Frank at 11:25 AM | Comments (0)

Video: BMW's Jacques Villeneuve at Silverstone Racetrack

Ahead of the June 11 Formula 1 race in Silverstone BMW-Sauber driver Jacques Villeneuve reviews the Silverstone racetrack by taking viewers along on a simulator ride where he discusses how he plans to drive the track.

Check out all our YouTubettes at: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=carbuyersnotebook.

Posted by Frank at 10:22 AM | Comments (0)

June 06, 2006

Another Vote to Build the New Chevy Camaro

Mark Phelan got that rare opportunity -- to actually drive an operational concept car, in this case the Chevy Camaro.

Phelan, like thousands of others, says, "build it."

This is a no-brainer, you can be sure, that right down the road from where Dodge designers are planning the production Challenger, there are GM engineers in a frenzy getting the Camaro ready for a 2009 debut.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:58 PM | Comments (0)

Ford Turns to Workers to Sell Cars

While Ford has always given current and former employees discount coupons for family and friends to buy vehicles, they are now aggressively courting the option, turning to their 350,000 company members to help sell vehicles.

Ford President Mark Fields said that if each current or retired worker helped sell one vehicle that would add an additional 2% of market share to the company's fortunes.

Participants will get a tiered set of incentives and prizes for putting cars over the curb; Ford, Mercury, Lincoln, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo vehicles are eligible.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:53 PM | Comments (0)

Volvo's Overseas Delivery Program

Take a vacation where the souvenir is part of an unforgettable experience. Purchase any new Volvo through the Volvo Overseas Delivery Program and you'll discover a truly unique way to buy a car, as well as a truly unique way to travel around Europe. Here are some of the benefits the program offers:

* Two complimentary, roundtrip flights to Europe on Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)
* Access to the SAS business lounges in the U.S.
* One night's stay at the 5-star SAS Scandinavia Hotel in Gothenburg, Sweden
* Fifteen day European Car Insurance coverage, including Swedish temporary registration
* Experience the unique atmosphere and service at the Factory Delivery Center in Gothenburg, Sweden, including complimentary Swedish meatball lunch, an exciting Volvo factory tour, visit to the Volvo Cars Safety Center or a visit to the Volvo Museum
* Extensive complimentary home shipment services valid for 6 months
* U.S. Customs Duty, port clearance fees and inland transportation to your U.S. Volvo retailer are included in purchase price
* Approximately 8% savings off the U.S. MSRP on most U.S.-model Volvos

Imagine putting your new Volvo through its paces on a German autobahn or a winding back road in the south of France. The Volvo Overseas Delivery Program can make it happen. For further further information:contact overseas@volvocars.com or call (800) 631-1667 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM EST, Monday - Friday.

Posted by Frank at 05:06 PM | Comments (0)

Evolution of the Volvo Logo

Volvo calls their logo the "Iron Mark," and it's been around for over 75 years. Photo depicts the evolution over the decades.

Posted by Frank at 05:03 PM | Comments (0)

10 Tips For Fuel-Efficient Driving From Volvo

As fuel prices continue to climb, now more than ever, we need to be aware of how driving can affect gas mileage. While many factors contribute to the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, you can still increase the overall efficiency as much as 30% simply by keeping your vehicle properly maintained and watching your driving technique. Here are ten tips you can follow that will make a difference you'll see on your gas gauge.

1. Avoid aggressive driving - Rapid acceleration and hard braking can increase fuel consumption by as much as 40%. The proper way to accelerate is slowly and smoothly, then get into high gear as soon as possible.
2. Drive steadily at posted speeds - Increasing your speed from 55 mph to 75 mph can increase fuel consumption as much as 20%.
3. Don't let your vehicle idle - Idling doesn't get you anywhere and wastes fuel.
4. Check tire inflation - Under inflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption, plus your tires will wear out sooner.
5. Use your air conditioner less - The air condition uses power to operate, and can increase fuel consumption as much as 20%. Roll the windows down.
6. Use the cruise control - On long trips the cruise control will maintain a steady speed, saving fuel.
7. Choose the right octane - Using premium (higher priced) fuel won't guarantee better performance, or better fuel efficiency.
8. Service your vehicle regularly and follow suggested manufacturer maintenance schedules - A poorly tuned engine can use up to 50% more fuel.
9. Reduce drag and weight - Roll the windows up to reduce resistance, take ski and bicycle racks off to cut down on weight and drag when they are not being used.
10. Avoid rough roads - Dirt an gravel can rob up to 30% of your gas mileage.

Posted by Frank at 04:56 PM | Comments (0)

Mercedes SL BRABUS V12 Road Test

This video is worth watchign for three reasons:

1. The Mercedes SL V12

2. Listening to the specs in metric "figgers,"

3. which leads us to the best reason -- the pompous ass of a British narrator!

Posted by Frank at 02:36 PM | Comments (0)

2006 Pontiac Solstice Video

Complete with narration by yours truly.

Check out our YouTube page:

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=carbuyersnotebook

Posted by Frank at 01:42 PM | Comments (0)

June 05, 2006

Audi TT Coupe the Next Generation

Audi is coming out with a new generation Audi TT Coupe, and they've just released a boatload of new info and photos, which we're presenting here for you. Caution -- press matter ahead!

- Body using innovative ASF principle incorporating aluminium and steel

- Dimensions: L 164.5”, W 72.5”, H 53.2”, wheelbase 97.2”

- Electrically retractable rear spoiler

- 2.0 T developing 200 hp

- 3.2 V6 developing 250 hp with Quattro all-wheel drive

- Manual six-speed gearbox and six-speed S tronic

- Audi dynamic suspension with transverse-link front suspension and four-link rear suspension

- Speed-dependent power steering as standard

- High-performance brake system with ESP with sports settings

- Innovative Audi magnetic ride damping system as option

- New generation of steering wheels; flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel as standard

INGOLSTADT, Germany - This is a cult car, an icon – right from the day it made its debut, in autumn 1998, the Audi TT took the sports coupe segment by storm, sharpening up the brand's profile in the process. Now the second generation of this successful model is making its debut. The new TT Coupe embodies sheer dynamism – in its design, in its engine output and in its performance.

The exterior design

The first generation of the TT has become a milestone in automotive design, an icon. The design adhered to pure geometric lines, embodying a functional purity and austerity harking back to the Bauhaus style of the 1920s. The core motifs were the circle and the curves of the roof line, and front and rear overhangs. This timeless architecture guaranteed that the Audi TT was an eminently recognisable presence out on the roads, and simultaneously gave the development of the entire brand decisive momentum.

Audi has lovingly retained and stylishly enhanced this genetic code. On the new TT the geometric shapes merge fluidly into a uniform whole. A low, narrow greenhouse is supported by slim pillars sitting on broad, powerful shoulders. The base body beneath is compact in looks, conveying a feeling of confidence and strength. The convex and concave curves of its surfaces lend it the character of an athletic sculpture straining forward.

The front end has gained greater expressiveness and resolve. The single-frame radiator grille serves as its defining element. The large air inlets hint at the potential of the engines, and the sharply cut, sloping headlights emphasise the mature appearance of the car. The rear styling, characteristic of the TT, conveys power and dynamism through its wide wheel arches. The lights generate a three-dimensional effect thanks to their visual depth. The powerful exhaust tailpipes, the wide diffuser and the centered rear fog light echo the world of motor sport.

When the new Audi TT is stationary, its electrically operated rear spoiler is visible only as an unobtrusive lip. When the car reaches a speed of 75 mph, the spoiler is extended in a two-dimensional curve motion, thereby improving the downforce on the rear axle. When the car's speed drops below 50 mph again, the spoiler automatically retracts. The underbody design also helps to reduce lift.

The interior

The original TT was itself one of the few coupes on the market to offer genuine sports car design in its interior. In the new model, too, the fluid dynamism of the exterior is echoed in the interior.

A sweeping line provides a transition between the interior trim of the door and the instrument panel. It embodies the classic circles motif of the TT in a number of ways, such as in the three center air vents. All lines converge in the instrument cluster, with its two large scales for speed and revs. New features include a large digital speedometer in the display of the driver information system.

The new standard-spec sports steering wheel fits snugly in the hands. Its solid rim, trimmed in high-grade Nappa leather, is flattened at the bottom, similarly to the Le Mans quattro sports car study. The driver's and front passenger's sports seats are fitted even lower down than in the predecessor model, providing a truly sporty seating position allied to firm side restraint. Like the steering column, they can of course be adjusted longitudinally and in height, offering a perfect sporty seated position for every driver.

The body

The new Audi TT, like its predecessor, is initially available as a 2 + 2-seater coupe; a roadster model is scheduled for later launch. The dynamic impression that it creates stems from its modified proportions. The coupe is 5.4 in. longer and 3.1 in. wider than its predecessor, but only 0.2 in. higher. It is now 164.5 in. long, 72.5 in. wide and 53.2 in. high. The TT's wheelbase is 97.2 in.

The interior, too, has benefited from this increase in size: it has grown by 3.0 in. in length to 62.1 in., by 1.4 in. in front shoulder width to 53.2 in. and by

0.9 in. in rear shoulder width to 47.5 in. In the basic configuration, the luggage compartment beneath the large lid accommodates about 10.2 cu. Ft. of luggage. It grows to approximately 24.7 cu. Ft. when the rear seat backs are folded down, and its length of 66.9 in. is ample for two golf bags. With these practical characteristics, the TT Coupe sets standards in its class.

The body of the new TT is constructed in lightweight ASF design. The three letters stand for Audi Space Frame – the ground-breaking aluminium technology developed by the company in the early 1990s for the first A8 series. The ASF combines aluminium and steel for the first time. Aluminium accounts for

69 percent of the weight of the body. Fully galvanised steel components are located principally at the rear of the floor panel. The doors and luggage compartment lid are also made of steel. This ensures that the axle loads are distributed evenly, thus considerably improving the handling of the vehicle.

The bodyshell of the TT weighs 453.2 lbs, 308 lbs. of which is aluminium and 145.2 lbs. steel; were it built entirely of steel, it would be 48 percent heavier. Its low weight is one of the key factors behind the impressive road behaviour of the new TT Coupe. The unladen weight of the TT 2.0T is just 2772 lbs. – placing it at the forefront of this performance class. And the 3.2 quattro weighs only 3102 lbs.

The new-style ASF on the Audi TT features properties that are truly worthy of a genuine sports car. Its static torsional rigidity has been improved by around

50 percent over its predecessor. In terms of crash safety, too, the new TT is utterly uncompromising.

The drivetrain

The new Audi TT is powered by two transversely installed engines – a four-cylinder turbo and a V6. Both units provide it with high levels of power and performance. Their performance enables the TT Coupe to perform impressively on the road.

The optional S tronic dual-clutch gearbox and quattro drive for the V6 – both of them exclusive technologies in the sports coupe segment – transmit the engine's power into propulsion.

The four-cylinder turbo engine, with the abbreviation TFSI, develops its power from a swept volume of 1,984 cc (2.0 liters). An international jury of experts voted it "Engine of the Year" for two years in succession, in 2005 and 2006 – praise indeed for its innovative technological package. The TFSI combines the Audi-developed gasoline direct injection technology FSI, which has impressively demonstrated its superiority in the R8 racing car, with a turbocharger – a perfect combination.

The four-valve engine responds spontaneously to the throttle and is ultra-refined. It puts 207 ft.-lbs. of torque onto the crankshaft even at engine speeds as low as 1,800 rpm, and is able to keep this high level of torque constant up to 5,000 rpm. The nominal power output of 200 hp is delivered between 5,100 and 6,000 rpm. The 2.0 T accelerates the Audi TT Coupe from 0 to 62 mph in just 6.4 seconds (in the version featuring the S tronic dual-clutch gearbox).

Even more power is on tap from the V6 engine, with its 3,189 cc (3.2 liters) capacity. It develops a maximum torque of 236 ft.-lbs. between 2,500 and 3,000 rpm, and at 6,300 rpm delivers a power output of 250 hp. The characteristic features of the long-stroke unit are the continuous adjustment of all four camshafts – by 52 degrees on the intake side and 42 degrees on the exhaust side – and the extremely narrow cylinder angle of just 15 degrees.

On the road, the 3.2-liter V6 unit reveals itself to be high-torque and high-revving. It produces a fascinatingly sonorous response at every engine speed, emphasising above all the intake sound. The TT 3.2 quattro sprints from a standing start to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds (with S tronic).

The standard-spec transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox in a weight-saving magnesium casing. A technical highlight, and a unique feature in its class for the TT, is the optional S tronic dual-clutch gearbox. The system's dual-clutch technology enables it to change gear in just 0.2 seconds, producing no discernible interruption to the power flow. In manual mode, the driver does the gear-changing, either by tapping the selector lever or by pulling one of the shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel, like on a racing car.

The four-cylinder TT is a front-wheel-drive model, while the V6 features permanent four-wheel drive. Its quattro drive system operates with an electronically controlled and hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch. In order to improve the distribution of axle loads, the clutch is placed at the rear of the TT. The mechanical construction and control efficiency of the unit have been further enhanced relative to the predecessor model. In normal conditions, the clutch directs 85 percent of the torque to the front wheels, but in extreme circumstances it is able to transmit as much as 100 percent of the forces to one of the two axles.

The chassis

The sport suspension on the new TT Coupe also helps to deliver top-class dynamics. This is thanks in part to its elaborate layout, as well as its 0.4 in. lower center of gravity. The Audi dynamic suspension layout has been redeveloped and retuned. The emphasis here has been placed on the wider track, the larger wheel cross-sections with diameters ranging from 16 to 19 inches and the extensive elastokinematic measures.

The front suspension is pivoted on an aluminium subframe. It has a wide track of 61.9 in. The steering comprises a rack-and-pinion assembly that supplies its electromechanical servo assistance as a function of road speed. The steering is characterised by direct transmission and a high degree of precision.

A new feature compared with the torsion-beam design of the predecessor is the four-link rear suspension with a track of 61.3 in. In this instance, the coil springs and shock absorbers are separate. The trailing links absorb the propulsive and braking forces. As an aid to ride comfort, their configuration is relatively soft.

The three wishbones per wheel, on the other hand, are connected rigidly in order to introduce the transverse forces into the body precisely.

The TT 2.0 T features 16-inch cast aluminium wheels, fitted with 225/55 R 16 tyres as standard. The 3.2 quattro features forged 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels, fitted with 245/45 R 17 tyres. All Audi TT models are fitted with newly developed disc brakes on every wheel. The new brake pads develop particularly high friction coefficients, thereby improving brake responsiveness and performance. The newly developed electronic stabilisation program is designed to maintain a dynamic driving style – it promotes the TT's self-steering behaviour, which is in the range of neutral to slightly understeering. This sporty characteristic delivers thrilling agility, maximum driving fun and magnificent handling.

The high-tech damping system, Audi magnetic ride, is available as an option – an innovative technology that resolves the age-old conflict between comfort and driving dynamics. The shock absorber pistons on the TT do not contain conventional oil, but a magneto-rheological fluid in which microscopically small magnetic particles are enclosed. When a voltage is applied to them, they alter the damping characteristics within milliseconds. This adaptive system simultaneously maintains astonishingly high levels of ride comfort and thoroughly sporty dynamism with perfect roll stabilisation, according to the specific driving scenario and the preferences of the driver. The driver can choose between the basic programs "Normal" and "Sport" at a switch. None of the TT's competitors offers a similarly advanced technological concept.

Standard equipment

The standard equipment of the TT reflects the sporty character of the TT Coupe. The interior of the TT is resplendent with grey inlays and various aluminium-look components. The sports seats are adjustable longitudinally and in height. The sports steering wheel is covered in Nappa leather. The automatic air conditioning system regulates the heating and ventilation depending on the angle of sunlight.

The driver information system and the audio system round off the standard specification of the driving area. The rear seat backs of the TT, divided 50:50, can be folded down separately. The luggage compartment features four lashing points.

The infotainment technology in the Audi TT Coupe is entirely new. The navigation system, with convenient operation for the telephone and a monochrome six-inch display, takes its cues from the exemplary MMI concept familiar from the Audi A6, A8 and Q7 model lines.

For mobile phones, the new Audi TT offers a universal kit with a Bluetooth interface fitted in the center console.

Posted by Frank at 09:50 PM | Comments (0)

It's Not Road Rage, I Just Feel Like Bashing Your Head In

A new study purports that uncontrollable outbursts such as road rage may not be just an inability to live like a good rat in a cage but may be part of a larger medical problem where you are just compelled to act like a rat.

Called "intermittent explosive disorder" the afflicted may also go banaanas throw things, break things, all before breakfast and then go out and rear-en d you at 40 miles an hour.

Score one for defense attorneys!

Link.

Posted by Frank at 09:24 PM | Comments (0)

Gas TV Coming to a Pump Near You

Gas Station TV is bringing the screen to your gas pump, like it or not.

Press release follows:

DETROIT, Mich. - June 5, 2006 - Gas Station TV (GSTV) today formally launches its digital television network which will convert fuel stations nationwide into media centers. An IP-based digital television network, GSTV will deliver relevant and entertaining programming including local news, sports, weather and traffic to refueling motorists. The GSTV network will air on 20" high-definition, daylight viewable LCD monitors embedded into gas dispensers.

GSTV has formed pre-eminent partnerships with ABC National Television Sales (a division of the Walt Disney Company), which will provide exclusive national sales representation for the network featuring select ABC content; Murphy Oil USA, Inc., the leader in the growing U.S. market of gasoline sales at non-traditional locations with 900 stations located in Wal-Mart parking lots; Gilbarco Veeder-Root (Gilbarco), the world's largest manufacturer of gas retailer equipment and technology; and Delphi Display Systems, the market leading provider of outdoor digital video display systems.

"We are creating the most valuable, out of home, digital network, with the greatest entertainment value for customers and significant return on investment for advertisers," said David Leider, CEO, GSTV.GSTV is led by executive management hailing from diverse backgrounds in advertising, digital signage, marketing, media and retail. The leadership team includes: David Leider, chief executive officer; Adam Bleibtreu, president; and Steven Kuehn, chief financial officer. Leider, Bleibtreu and Kuehn received the venture and private equity funding to create Gas Station TV from iZi Media, LLC and DHW Capital, LLC.

"The strong leadership skills demonstrated by David, Adam and Steven through their far-reaching expertise in media, coupled with a strong business model make GSTV an attractive investment opportunity," said David Wong, DHW Capital.

The value proposition of GSTV is rooted in the average length of time consumers spend fueling their vehicle. GSTV has developed a programming schedule to maximize information sharing during this four minute time period. GSTV will feature select ABC News content, including the popular "News You Can Use" segments from "Good Morning America"; local news, weather forecasts and traffic updates from ABC owned television stations; and entertaining promotional material from the ABC Television Network.

ABC's New Media Sales group will support GSTV's brand reach within the advertising community, as well as the network's overall promotional initiatives. Tapping ABC New Media Sales sophisticated research, marketing and promotional resources, GSTV will have the capability to assist advertisers in shaping messages most effective for the retail-based network and its audience.

"GSTV's full audio and video experience will offer a highly valuable television experience for consumers at the pump, as well as tremendous opportunities for advertisers seeking to reach this significant place-based audience," said John Watkins, president of ABC National Television Sales.

The full-motion video and stereo sound of GSTV will be broadcast throughout the gas station creating a dynamic and immersive media experience for both the consumer and the advertiser.

"GSTV offers our clients the maximum value for their advertising dollars," said Jack Sullivan, senior vice president and out of home media director, Starcom, USA. "With a truly captive audience, GSTV removes the fear that consumers will change the channel or skip the commercials—effectively delivering every cost-per-thousand that advertisers purchase."

To achieve national distribution, GSTV has signed a long-term, exclusive contract with Murphy USA to install the GSTV network. GSTV will be at 100 Murphy USA locations by September 2006, with 400 stations in the top 10 U.S. markets by January 1, 2007. The network is currently available at Murphy USA sites in Dallas.

"GSTV's compelling, visually striking consumer entertainment gives Murphy USA something no other retailer has," said Hank Heithaus, senior vice president, Murphy USA. "The GSTV experience drives customer traffic to the pumps and increases merchandise sales, allowing retailers to generate an incremental bottom line profit."

GSTV has also entered into a strategic alliance with Gilbarco Veeder-Root to embed the 20" LCD monitors with stereo sound that carry GSTV into its gas pumps at participating stations. The GSTV system will not only be embedded into new fueling dispensers, it can also be retrofitted into any Gilbarco pump. Through an exclusive co-marketing agreement, the GSTV system will be marketed through the Gilbarco sales force and made available to Gilbarco's high-volume gas retail customers. The partnerships with ABC for content and advertising sales, and the alliance with Gilbarco enable GSTV to provide the equipment and service at no charge to the retailer.

Programmable on a station-by-station basis, a portion of the programming on GSTV is dedicated to delivering messages that directly promote each retailer's convenience store offerings. With up to four customized, promotional messages airing during each customer's visit, GSTV enables retailers to drive the pay-at-the pump customer back into the store. Using templates from major brands like Pepsi, Frito-Lay, US Tobacco and others, GSTV custom produces a station's ads to meet its unique needs. Another key component of the agreement with Gilbarco is the development of marketing and promotional programs designed to increase incremental retail revenue at participating retailers.

"We believe that GSTV's digital media solution featuring ABC programming will not only enhance the customer experience but generate profits for our gas retailers by driving more retail traffic into their stores," said Martin Gafinowitz, president, Gilbarco Veeder-Root.

The dispenser-top units used in the GSTV system will be manufactured by Delphi Display Systems (Delphi), the leading provider of sunlight readable display technology for the quick service restaurant drive-thru industry. The high quality display enabled by the Delphi monitors creates a rich viewing experience for consumers.

"Delphi Display Systems is committed to pioneering creative solutions and adapting unique applications for our customers," said Ken Neeld, president and CEO, Delphi Display Systems. "GSTV provides us with another great opportunity to apply our expertise."

The content on GSTV will be updated several times per day so that it remains relevant each time a customer visits the station.

GSTV currently features advertising from Allstate, Chevrolet, ditech.com, Goodyear, Pepsi and the U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company.

Posted by Frank at 08:51 PM | Comments (0)

Hyundai Azera, Lincoln Navigator Top AutoPacific 2006 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

The 2006 Lincoln Navigator SUV and Hyundai Azera have topped a survey of vehicle owners' satisfaction AutoPacific, an automotive research firm, conducts their VSA (Vehicle Satisfaction Award) study to objectively measuring how satisfied an owner is with their new car or light truck.

Unlike 2005, when Nissan North America had seven winners, the 2006 results are distributed across the industry. There are eighteen Vehicle Satisfaction Award categories. Honda won four categories, General Motors won three categories, Ford won three categories, Nissan won two categories, Hyundai won two categories, Mitsubishi won two categories.

Top 2006 model year performers are:

PASSENGER CARS:
Premium Luxury Car Lexus LS
Entry Luxury Car Cadillac CTS
Luxury/Large Car Hyundai Azera
Premium Mid-Size Car Volkswagen Passat
Mid-Size Car Mercury Milan
Image Compact Car MINI Cooper
Compact Car Honda Civic
Sports Car Chevrolet Corvette
Sporty Car Acura RSX

LIGHT TRUCKS:
Large Light-Duty Pickup Nissan Titan
Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Chevrolet Silverado HD
Sport Utility Truck Honda Ridgeline
Compact Pickup Mitsubishi Raider
Luxury Sport Utility Lincoln Navigator
Large Sport Utility Nissan Armada
Premium Mid-Size Sport Utility Mitsubishi Endeavor
Mid-Size Sport Utility Hyundai Santa Fe
Compact Sport Utility Suzuki Grand Vitara
Minivan Honda Odyssey

In addition to identifying segment winners, VSA also establishes numerical satisfaction ratings for virtually every passenger car and light truck in the North American market. This results from calculating owner satisfaction across 44 specific areas related to a vehicle's operation, comfort, safety and the overall purchase/lease experience. The 2006 ratings reflect input from buyers and lessees of new vehicles acquired September 2005 through January 2006.

Posted by Frank at 08:42 PM | Comments (0)

Eat Pizza, Win a Chrysler Crossfire

Papa John's has teamed up with several sponsors, including Chrysler, to give away prizes during their 100 Sizzling Days of Summer.

Actually, you don't have to eat pizza to win, you can just click here to register, enter and win. PJ's is giving away six Crossfires plus lots of others swag.

Posted by Frank at 08:34 PM | Comments (0)

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Official Vehicle of Singapore Hotel

Singapore, 31st May 2006 -- Raffles Hotel and Bentley Motors are proud to announce that a personally commissioned Continental Flying Spur will be used for chauffeuring VIP’s and guests at the iconic hotel.

The new Continental Flying Spur will transport guests in splendid style every step of the way, befitting the prestigious and luxurious positioning of the hotel. Raffles has always stood as a jewel in the crown of Singapore's hospitality industry, renowned and loved for her inimitable style and unsurpassed excellence in service and facilities.

“We are delighted to be a partner with Bentley, a world-renowned luxury brand that has had more than 80 years of experience building legendary automobiles”, says Robert Logan, General Manager, Raffles Hotel. “Bentley and Raffles Hotel share similar rich histories and we are proud to embark on this unique and meaningful partnership, to create memorable experiences for all our guests”.

“The Continental Flying Spur is the latest addition to the Bentley model range and its unrivalled combination of bespoke luxury together with practical considerations to ensure occupants are transported in comfort and style made it ideally suited to meet the needs of Raffles Hotel guests”, says Julian Jenkins, Bentley Motors Regional Director for South Asia. “We are delighted to partner Raffles Hotel in this exclusive arrangement bringing together two of the finest and most established luxury brands”.

Handcrafted at the company’s headquarters in Crewe, England, the Continental Flying Spur is a no compromise 4-door Grand Tourer combining the highest levels of elegance and comfort while delivering performance and driving dynamics normally only found in sports cars.

With substantial rear legroom for passengers and a breathtaking cabin the Continental Flying Spur is capable of transporting its occupants in complete comfort and perfectly meets the requirements for the most discerning guests at Raffles Hotel. The Continental Flying Spur will feature the hotel monogram on the hide interior to highlight the car’s status as the official chauffeur vehicle for Raffles Hotel.

Shared characteristics link the two iconic brands and form the platform for a partnership that will undoubtedly provide customers with a truly memorable experience.

Posted by Frank at 07:32 PM | Comments (0)

Bentley Taps Former Ford PR Man

Bentley Motors has announced the appointment of David P. Reuter as General Manager of Public Relations – Bentley Motors, Inc.

Reuter joins Bentley Motors following a distinguished career in public relations at the Ford Motor Company, where he held a number of roles within the North American market, as well as assignments in Japan and Europe.

Mr. Reuter will replace John Crawford, who has announced his retirement from Bentley Motors, effective on December 1st, 2006. David Reuter will report to David Goggins, Director of Marketing and Communications.

Mr. Crawford joined Bentley on January 1st, 1999 and has overseen the company’s public relations programs through the separation of the Bentley and Rolls-Royce marques, and the introduction of Bentley’s range of Continental models.

Commenting on the appointment, the CEO of Bentley Motors, Inc., Andrew Stuart, said: “We are delighted to welcome David to Bentley. He has a great background in frontline public relations, and in addition his international experience allows him to bring a global vision to this role. I am certain his experience will complement the results which have been achieved under John Crawford’s stewardship over the past seven years.”

Posted by Frank at 07:31 PM | Comments (0)

Sex Fantasies Of Female NASCAR Groupies

Well that headline certainly got my attention from the AdAge article.

The subject of the headline is an Allstate commercial featuring three women alluded to in the title above.

Click here to visit the page, where you can watch the ad; registration is worth the effort to see the outcome of the vignette.

Posted by Frank at 08:00 AM | Comments (0)

Mercedes Lends Fuel Cell Vehicle to Student Drivers

Mercedes has been lending their F-Cell hydrogen vehicle to select folks taking their driving exam in California, and we're curious if the wow factor gives them an edge with the inspectors.

Fuel Cells are whisper quiet, and fun to drive, though we also wonder if the extra torque ever jumps out of the newbie's hands.

And we also wonder just what the insurance on the vehicle's, which are worth about a million bucks each, runs to!

Full press release after the jump.

Auburn Hills MI, May 31, 2006 - Over the last year some lucky individuals have had the opportunity to drive a zero-emissions Mercedes-Benz fuel cell-powered passenger car to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in California to complete their driver's test.

President Bush has stated, "I believe that today's children will one day take a driver's test in a hydrogen-powered, pollution-free car. That's the goal of the United States." DaimlerChrysler is taking that step today.

"It was an experience to see the look on the evaluator's face at the DMV," said Peter Friebe, who recently passed his exam." I'm sure it made his day to ride around in the F-Cell giving me my driving test."

DaimlerChrysler has spent more than $1 billion in fuel cell vehicle research and development. No other manufacturer has accumulated more data or driven more zero-emissions miles — almost 2 million.

The Mercedes-Benz F-Cell is a reflection of DaimlerChrysler's leadership in fuel cell technology. The entire fuel cell system is housed in the floor of the vehicle, leaving full use of the passenger and cargo spaces. It has a range of approximately 100 miles and a top speed of 85 mph. The electric motor develops 88 hp (65 kw), enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 16 seconds. The stack has been developed by the DaimlerChrysler cooperation partner Ballard Power Systems.

The DaimlerChrysler fuel cell vehicle fleet is diverse — in addition to several research vehicles, it also includes medium-duty fuel cell Dodge Sprinter vans and more than 35 Mercedes-Benz Citaro fuel cell buses, which operate in Europe, the United States, Japan, Australia and Singapore. As part of the world's largest fleet of fuel cell vehicles, DaimlerChrysler has more than 25 fuel cell vehicles with customers in California and more than 100 around the world. No other manufacturer comes close to the efforts of DaimlerChrysler with fuel cell technology.

DaimlerChrysler pioneered fuel cell vehicle technology more than a decade ago. Fuel cells release energy from the reaction of hydrogen with a catalyst and oxygen. This clean technology operates at a high level of efficiency and is true zero-emissions. Hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles emit only pure water vapor as exhaust. Fuel cell vehicles are part of DaimlerChrysler's advanced propulsion technology umbrella, which includes efficient gasoline engines, advanced diesels, Flex-Fuel and hybrid powertrain systems.

Posted by Frank at 06:47 AM | Comments (0)

30% of Workers Take Ford Buyout at Wixom

433 workers have signed up to be bought out by Ford at the Wixom, Michigan assembly plant, which is scheduled to be idled next year.

The plant, which made the Lincoln LS and still builds the Ford GT and Lincoln Town Car, has 1,433 workers.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 06:42 AM | Comments (0)

Smart May Sell In US Yet

DaimlerChrysler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche said the company is leaning toward selling the Smart car in the United States, according to Reuters.

"At the moment, the tendency is clearly positive," Zetsche said in an interview with Germany's Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.

A final decision on whether to sell the car in the United States will be taken this month, he said.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 06:38 AM | Comments (0)

High Gas Prices Make People Do the Darndest Things

With gas at a national average of $2.85 a gallon, there's plenty of stories of scammers and thieves, though we haven't heard of any siphon sprees yet.

Pennsylvania motorists took advantage of a malfunctioning pump to buy "discounted" gas at 32.9 cents a gallon, and one enterprising fellow disabled a pump to "sell" wholesale fuel at $10 a tank.

According to AAA, ten states have average prices over three bucks a gallon.

Posted by Frank at 06:23 AM | Comments (0)

Small Pickups Carry a Lot of Weight

Even though overall sales of small pickups has dropped, the rise to prominence of the Toyota Tacoma could spell trouble for the Ford F-150. That's because J.D. Power has found that small pickup owners choose a larger truck for their next vehicle, 28.1% of the time, more than any other category.

With Toyota launching the new full-size Tundra later this year, that could explain why they put so much effort into redesigning the Tacoma last year -- with lots of loyal customers they may stay in brand and go for the Tundra.

PDF Link.

Posted by Frank at 06:09 AM | Comments (0)

9% of Americans Would Fail Driver's Test

GMAC insurance polled drivers in all 50 states and found that one in eleven would fail the driver's license test if forced to take it today.

For example, the sign at right does not mean "put your flashers on."

The northeast scores lowest with 16% failing, and Rhode Island drivers are the dumbest.

I was shocked to see Maryland drivers listed as high as 46th. They are loathsome behind the wheel.

Not so shocking was Washington, D.C. drivers, at number 50.

Posted by Frank at 06:02 AM | Comments (0)

Ford F-150 Rolls With Toby Keith Tour Again

Ford's F-Series trucks is sponsoring Toby Keith’s “Hookin’ Up and Hangin’ Out Tour” in the United States beginning August 11 in Cleveland with more than 25 concert dates already announced.

As a follow-up to Keith’s “Ford Truck Man” song in 2002, he will record a new song to support Ford’s Bold Moves advertising campaign and again headline Ford Truck ads that bow this fall.

Ford enters its fourth straight year sponsoring Keith, including the 2003 “Shock N’Y’All Tour” and the 2004 “Big Throwdown Tour” and 2005 sequel.

“We're very excited to be working with Toby again this year. There's no better partner for America's Best Selling Trucks than country music's best selling artist," says Ford Truck Marketing Manager Todd Eckert. "Toby Keith definitely personifies Built Ford Tough and, working with him, we capture that in concert videos, ads and music that deeply connect with our customers.”

Toby Keith “Hookin’ Up and Hangin’ Out” Tour Presented by Ford F-Series
Upcoming 2006 Concert Dates Include:

Cleveland OH (HOB) - August 11
Scranton , PA - August 12
Homdel , NJ - August 13
Darien Lakes , NY - August 18
Boston , MA - August 19
Hartford , CT - August 20
Philadelphia , PA - August 24
Pittsburgh , PA - August 25
Hershey , PA - August 27
Syracuse , NY - August 29
West Palm Beach , FL - September 1
Tampa , FL - September 2
Mountain View , CA - September 15
San Diego , CA (HOB) - September 17
Phoenix , AZ - September 22
Las Vegas , NV - September 23
Sacramento , CA - September 24
St. Louis , MO - September 29
Chicago , IL - September 30
Indianapolis , IN - October 1
Columbus , OH - October 6
Washington , DC - October 7
Virginia Beach , VA October 13
Raleigh , NC - October 14
Charlotte , NC - October 15

Posted by Frank at 05:39 AM | Comments (0)

GM Celebrates Harlem Dealership Openings

Otis Thornton, pictured here with GM CEO Rick Wagoner, is the owner of the Chevy-Saturn dealership, and a new Cadillac-Hummer store is opening alognside the new facility.

Thornton's store was developed through GM's Minority Dealer Development Program, which attracts minority candidates and helps them become successful auto dealers; the Potamkin Cadillac-HUMMER store was developed in conjunction with Potamkin's Minority Dealership Program.

The grand opening marks the the first auto dealerships in Harlem in more than 40 years. The 300,000-square-foot multi-level complex houses two separate dealerships, which together create one of the largest auto sales and service centers in New York City and the only ones north of 57th Street in Manhattan, bringing 150 new jobs to Harlem to date with expected growth up to 200 jobs.

Posted by Frank at 05:29 AM | Comments (0)

Ice Cream Truck Driver Absolutely Bomb Popped

An ice cream truck driver was arrested after police pulled him over doing swirlies and found a bottle of vodka -- not in the freezer, duh -- but between the seats.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:04 AM | Comments (0)

Jeep Kills Diesel Liberty

What a shame, Jeep is killing the diesel version of the Liberty because the Italian-made diesel won't meet new emissions requirements.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 04:55 AM | Comments (0)

June 04, 2006

Where Cars and Fashion Intersect

This video report put out by General Motors discusses where cars and fashion intersect and versey-vicey.

Posted by Frank at 04:35 PM | Comments (0)

Harley Museum Breaks Ground in Downtown Milwaukee

Harley-Davidson is building a 130,000 sq. ft. museum in downtown Milwaukee, and construction is expected to take two years with a 2008 opening scheduled.

Built on 20 acres, Harley expects 350,000 visitors a year, who will buy an awful lot of t-shirts and other memorabilia.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 03:21 PM | Comments (0)

MINI Sells 150,000 Cooper in U.S.

MINI USA sold its 150,000th MINI in the US to 21 year-old Ramon Aragon, who got himself a Pepper White MINI Cooper from the Sandia MINI in Albuquerque, NM.

MINI reports that Aragon, like most MINI customers, special-ordered his MINI Cooper from the factory, customizing his car with options that include a black roof and bonnet stripes, a Premium Package and the "Checkmate Package" that offers special interior trim and exterior checkerboard graphics. MINI says over 60% of customers uniquely configure the MINI they want and custom-order it from the factory. MINI owners add an average of $5,000 worth of factory and dealer installed options to customize their cars.

Posted by Frank at 02:46 PM | Comments (0)

Nissan Silvia Vs Mitsubishi Evo Race Video

You have got to watch this just to listen to the Japanese race announcer!

Posted by Frank at 02:38 PM | Comments (0)

Volvo's Piratical Adventure

Volvo's got a tie-in with the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie, but mum's the word until June 12. Here's a page where you can sign up to get an e-mail when the adventure begins.

And here's an MSN Space page hinting that maybe there's a car inside the container to be won.

Ahoy.

Posted by Frank at 02:25 PM | Comments (0)

Who Killed the Electric Car Movie Trailer

Director Chris Paine was one of hundreds of EV1 owners ordered by GM to surrender their beloved electric cars and he turned around and made a movie chronicling the history of the non-combustion auto.

It opens June 28, 2006 in NY and LA, to be followed by other cities. Here is the website to the Who Killed the Electric Car movie, and another link to the EV1 owner's club. A really cool resource for the movie is this link to the press kit, which has all the info on the website without the annoying flash animation.

The link below is the movie trailer.

Posted by Frank at 01:17 PM | Comments (0)

Toyota Sales Up 12.3 % in May

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported overall best-ever monthly sales of 235,708 vehicles, an increase of 12.3 percent over May 2005. It marks the third consecutive month and seventh time Toyota has recorded at least 200,000 sales in a single month. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 1,000,524 units, up 8.8 percent over the same period last year.

"The pinch at the pump has made small cars part of the big picture, right along with hybrids," said TMS Group Vice President and Toyota Division General Manager Jim Lentz, whose promotion to executive vice president of TMS is subject to the approval of Toyota Motor Corporation on June 23. "The market is healthy, though shifting."

The Toyota Division reported all-time best-ever monthly sales of 205,709, up 12.8 percent. The Lexus Division recorded best-ever May sales with 29,999 units sold, an increase of 8.9 percent.

Toyota Division

Toyota Division passenger cars posted all-time best-ever monthly sales of 144,875 units, up 19.6 percent over the same period last year. Making its U.S. debut in mid March, the Yaris subcompact posted robust sales of 8,065 units. The Corolla enjoyed all-time best-ever sales of 41,550 units in May, up 28 percent. The completely redesigned 2007 Camry, which went on sale in March, recorded May sales of 43,112 units, an increase of 3.6 percent. Arriving in showrooms in late April, the all-new Camry Hybrid had early sales of 3,032 units. Demand for the Prius gas-electric hybrid continues to outweigh supply, with sales totaling 8,103 units for the month.

Toyota Division light truck sales reported a best-ever May totaling 79,127 units, an increase of 6.4 percent. Sales of RAV4 reached all-time best-ever sales of 14,013 units, up 97 percent over the same period last year. The all-new FJ Cruiser, which debuted in late March, posted strong sales of 6,670 units. Highlander Hybrid enjoyed May sales of 3,755 units.

Scion reported all-time best-ever sales with 18,103 units sold. The tC sports coupe reported best-ever May sales of 7,413 units, up 10.6 over last year. The popular xB subcompact recorded its all-time best-ever month with 6,763 units sold, an increase of 41.4. The xA subcompact also posted all-time best-ever monthly sales of 3,927 units, up 71.3 percent over the same period last year.

Lexus Division

Lexus passenger cars posted all-time best-ever sales with 18,293 units, an increase of 38.9 percent. The all-new ES 350 luxury sedan, which went on sale in late April, led the way with an all-time best-ever sales month of 9,554 units, and increase of 52.2 percent. The IS luxury sport sedans reported best-ever May sales of 4,605 units, a 928.1 percent increase over last May. The IS 250 reported sales of 3,400, with the IS 350 recording 1,205 units. The RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV continued its steady sales performance with a total of 2,006 units in May.

Sales of North American-built vehicles accounted for 52.4 percent of total May sales. There were 25 selling days this sales month compared to 24 last May.

Posted by Frank at 06:58 AM | Comments (0)

Kia Sales up 3.9% in May

IRVINE, Calif., June 1, 2006 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced May sales of 26,494 units, a 3.9-percent increase over the same period last year. Kia's year-to-date sales of 119,135 units represent a 2.7-percent improvement over the record sales pace in 2005.

Posted by Frank at 06:42 AM | Comments (0)

Suzuki Breaks Own Sales Record for May

Grand Vitara and Forenza family lead Suzuki to best May in company history and third consecutive month with sales above 10,000 units

BREA, Calif. -- (June 1, 2006) -- American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) today announced sales of 10,135 units in May – representing an increase of 36 percent over May 2005, the best May sales in company history and the third consecutive month in which Suzuki reported sales above 10,000 units. Year-to-date sales, which total 47,443, are up 37 percent. Suzuki’s monthly and quarterly records continue its recent sales momentum which included record sales of 82,101 in 2005 – the best sales year in American Suzuki’s 21-year history.

ASMC’s growth was led by the sales of its Grand Vitara, which sold 2,358 units, an impressive 630 percent increase over last year’s numbers. The top-selling Forenza family of vehicles also contributed to Suzuki’s record month, with 4,961 units sold in May – a 13 percent increase over 2005.

“Suzuki’s record-setting sales in April and May, following the outstanding first quarter result, demonstrates Suzuki’s positive sales momentum and puts us on-track to sustain our growth throughout 2006,” said Koichi Suzuki, president of American Suzuki’s Automotive Operations. “With the increasing popularity of the 2006 Grand Vitara, the continuing sales strength of the Forenza models and the excitement surrounding the two new vehicles (all-new 2007 XL7 and all-new 2007 SX4) we plan to introduce later this year, American Suzuki will be in position for a successful sales effort this year.”

Posted by Frank at 06:35 AM | Comments (0)

Nissan North America Announces May Sales

GARDENA, Calif. -- Nissan North America, Inc. reports sales of 86,667 units in May, which is a decrease of 11.0 percent from the prior year and an increase of 3.9 percent from the prior month. While NNA's Nissan Division posted a decrease of 10.5 percent over last year, the Murano had its best ever May and the Frontier posted a strong sales increase versus one year ago. The Infiniti Division posted a sales decline of 15.2 percent versus the prior year, but Infiniti sales rose versus April, by 5.2 percent.

NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

-- May sales for Nissan-brand vehicles of 76,881 units decreased 10.5 percent on a daily sales rate basis when compared to last year with 82,440 units sold.

-- Murano saw record sales for May, with 6,662 units sold marking a 3.4 percent increase from one year ago.

-- Frontier pickup saw solid sales of 7,409 units in May, a 39.4 percent increase from year-ago.

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

-- Sales for Infiniti were down 15.2 percent with 9,786 units sold as compared with last May's 11,079 units.

-- The QX56 saw strong sales momentum, with 1,265 units sold marking a 5.6 percent gain over one year ago.

NNA INFORMATION

-- Combined May sales for Nissan and Infiniti totaled 86,667 units, an 11.0 percent decrease when compared to last year with 93,519 units.

Posted by Frank at 05:51 AM | Comments (0)

Mitsubishi Motors Reports Best Month of U.S. Sales in More Than a Year

May U.S. Sales Up Four Percent

CYPRESS, Calif. -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today reported May sales of 11,821 units, an increase of 3.9% compared to May 2005 sales of 11,380. The increase follows a 17.5% year-over-year increase in April.

"We are very pleased to put together two consecutive months of very strong sales," said President & CEO Hiroshi Harunari. "This gives us tremendous momentum entering the summer selling season, with our exciting new Eclipse Spyder convertible just beginning to make an impact."

* May sales volume closed at 11,821, up 9.0% from last month's volume and
3.9% up from last May's volume. This was the best month since
March 2005.

* Galant was the volume leader at 3,071, up 8.9% up from last May's
volume.

* Eclipse Spyder closed with 895 sales, up 85.7% from last year's May
sales.

* Eclipse closed at 2,606, up 64.5% from May 2005 volume. CYTD volume of
11,002 is up 92.9% from last year CYTD.

* Endeavor closed at 1,681, up 35.5% from last month's (April 2006)
volume.

Posted by Frank at 05:50 AM | Comments (0)

Volvo Down in May

IRVINE, Calif. Volvo Cars of North America, LLC reports sales in May of 10,144 units in the United States*. For the month, sales were off 6 percent compared to the same period last year.

Overall in North America (United States including Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico), 11,610 unit were sold, representing a 6.5 percent decline year-over-year. Sales for Volvo Canada and Volvo Mexico were 1,228 and 238 units, respectively.

Posted by Frank at 05:48 AM | Comments (0)

Ford Fusion Sales Soar in May; CUVs and Hybrids Also Advance

-- Fusion sales were 14,940, up 18 percent from previous best month.
-- Fusion, Milan and Zephyr sales totaled best ever 20,267.
-- Focus sales (20,391) highest since last August.
-- CUVs up 12 percent; Escape and Mariner hybrids up 132 percent.
-- Total car sales up 6.4 percent; truck sales down 6.6 percent; total vehicle sales down 1.9 percent.
-- Ford announces third quarter North American production plans.

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Fusion, an all-new mid-size sedan, posted its best sales month ever in May. Fusion sales were 14,940, an 18 percent increase over the previous best month (April). Combined sales for the company's new mid-size sedans (Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Lincoln Zephyr) were 20,267, the first month sales eclipsed 20,000.

"The Fusion, Milan and Zephyr give our dealers a great opportunity to compete for customers looking for affordable cars with distinctive styling and outstanding fuel economy," said Al Giombetti, president, Ford (NYSE:F) and Lincoln Mercury marketing and sales.

Increased demand for these new cars and strong sales of Ford's popular Focus and Mustang helped lift May car sales 6.4 percent compared with a year ago. Truck sales declined 6.6 percent resulting in an overall decline of 1.9 percent.

In the truck category, Ford's crossover utilities (CUVs) were higher than a year ago as combined sales of the Ford Escape, Ford Freestyle, and Mercury Mariner were up 12 percent. Sales of the Escape and Mariner hybrid models totaled 2,862, up 132 percent compared with last May. Later this year, Ford will introduce two more CUVs, the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX.

Sales for traditional sport utility vehicles (SUVs), like Ford Explorer and Expedition, were 21 percent lower than a year ago despite increases for the Mercury Mountaineer, Lincoln Navigator, and record sales for the Land Rover brand.

"We've seen an industry-wide decline in traditional sport utility vehicles," said Giombetti, "and higher gas prices accelerated this decline. Several years ago, we predicted CUVs would grow and SUVs would decline and we incorporated this assumption in our product and capacity plans. With our new cars, CUVs and hybrids, we've never been in a better position to compete for customers in an environment of rising gas prices."

Ford's F-Series truck has been the best-selling truck in America for 29 years in a row and has achieved a higher share of the full-size pickup segment in 2006. In May, F-Series sales totaled 70,175, down 6 percent. On a year- to-date basis, F-Series sales were essentially equal to a year ago.

North American Production Plan

The company plans to produce 710,000 vehicles (250,000 cars and 460,000 trucks) in the third quarter 2006. In the third quarter 2005, the company produced 728,000 vehicles (210,000 cars and 518,000 trucks).

In the second quarter 2006, the company plans to build 890,000 vehicles (325,000 cars and 565,000 trucks). This plan is equal to the previously- announced production plan.

Posted by Frank at 05:43 AM | Comments (0)

Mercedes-Benz USA Reports Best May Sales Ever

MONTVALE, N.J. -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported its highest May on record with sales of 21,621 new vehicles, an increase of 21.4 percent over last May, bringing year-to-date sales to 94,133 new vehicles, a 17.1 percent increase compared to the first five months of 2005.

Passenger car sales of 15,282 units showed an increase of 6.4 percent over May 2005. The strongest increase for the month (and for the year-to-date) was the flagship 2007 S-Class with sales of 2,526 units, an increase of 84.5 percent over last May. Other strong performers include the SL-Class and SLK- Class roadsters with combined sales of 2,283, a 37.1 percent increase over May 2005 and E-Class sedan and wagon sales of 4,070, a 14 percent increase over May 2005.

Sales for Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the luxury light truck segment -- M- Class, R-Class, GL-Class and G-Class -- continue to gain momentum as a group with an 84 percent increase over May 2005 and a 105.3 percent increase over year-to-date 2005 (23,257 v. 11,328). In this group, the all-new 2007 GL- Class, the first European full-sized luxury SUV, recorded sales of 2,545 for its first full month on the market.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program, MBUSA sold 4,150 vehicles in May, bringing annual sales for the year to a total of 18,656 units, an increase of 7.8 percent over May 2005.

Posted by Frank at 05:25 AM | Comments (0)

GM Delivers 345,157 Vehicles In May

* Combined Sales of New Full-Size Utilities Up 41 Percent vs. April
* Solid Chevy HHR and Pontiac Torrent Sales Drive Small Utility Increase of 34 Percent
* Sales Impacted By Reductions In Incentive Programs and Daily Rental Sales

DETROIT - General Motors dealers in the United States sold 345,157 new cars and trucks in May, down 16 percent compared to year-ago levels, reflecting continued strategic reductions in incentives and daily rentals, which were down 28 percent.

Total car sales were down 19 percent, and truck sales were down 13 percent. While high gas prices continue to have some impact, consumers have responded favorably to GM's new products, particularly the all-new 2007 Chevy Tahoe (11,689 sales), Avalanche (1,692) and Suburban (5,128), GMC Yukon/Yukon XL (7,965) and Cadillac Escalade (2,945) and Escalade ESV (1,097), resulting in a combined 41 percent sales increase compared to April.

"The overall industry in May was dampened by rising fuel prices and interest rates. GM is actively addressing consumers' concerns with its segment-leading fuel economy and a pilot program like the 'Fuel Price Protection Program,' which helps consumers battle the uncertainty of gas price fluctuations," said Mark LaNeve, General Motors North America vice president, Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing.

A very encouraging trend was the continued success of GM's new vehicles. LaNeve explained, "Our launch vehicles continue to post strong sales results, as evidenced by the sales gains of our all-new full-size utilities and strong retail sales of important new products including the Chevrolet Impala, HHR and Cobalt, Buick Lucerne, Pontiac G6 and Torrent." LaNeve added, "Our May sales volume was not where we need it to be. It clearly was impacted by our reduced reliance on daily rental sales and broad-based incentive programs to drive the business."

"Our customers have told us that success in the marketplace depends on a combination of great new products, strong brands and segment-leading fuel economy, and that is exactly the turnaround strategy we are executing," LaNeve said.

GM's luxury utilities posted strong sales in May, up 34 percent compared to year-ago levels. H3 sales led HUMMER to its thirteenth consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases. Total HUMMER sales were up 53 percent. Cadillac Escalade sales rose 50 percent in May, paced by continuing brisk demand for the all-new 2007 model. Cadillac Escalade ESV sales started strong with 1,097 sold.

The newest additions to GM's small utility lineup, Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Torrent, helped push total small utility sales up 34 percent.

GM sports cars also posted solid May sales results, with a 44 percent improvement compared to year-ago levels. Corvette led the lineup with a 3.5 percent increase with 3,317 deliveries. Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky are selling briskly, with Solstice remaining on dealers' lots an average of 13 days and Sky remaining on lots 2 days.

Total sales of all GM launch vehicles were up 12.5 percent compared to April and accounted for 24 percent of GM's total deliveries for the month. The success of GM's launch vehicles is another critical component of GM's North America restructuring plan.

GM will continue to introduce an array of new vehicles throughout 2006, including the all-new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickups, the fuel-efficient Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid to be introduced this fall, and GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook crossovers coming late this year.

Certified Used Vehicles

May sales for all certified GM brands, including GM Certified Used Vehicles, Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Used Cars from Saturn, Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, were 44,522 units, up 12 percent from last May. Total year-to-date certified GM sales are 220,097 units, up 2 percent from the same period last year.

GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling manufacturer-certified used brand, posted 38,471 sales, up 15 percent from last May. Year-to-date sales for GM Certified Used Vehicles are 191,523 units, up 4 percent from the same period in 2005.

Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles posted 3,316 sales in May, up nearly 6 percent from last May. Used Cars from Saturn sold 1,845 units, down 17 percent. Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 801 units, down nearly 13 percent. In its fifth month of operation, HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned sold 89 units.

"May proved to be another terrific month for GM Certified Used Vehicles sales, increasing 15 percent over May 2005, marking the third consecutive month of double-digit sales increases," LaNeve said. "With sales of 38,471 units in May, GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling certified brand, continues to lead the certified segment and is on track to set another all-time sales record for the category."

Posted by Frank at 05:06 AM | Comments (0)

Hyundai Scores Big With Sonata in May

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai Motor America announced sales of 42,514 vehicles for the month, which represents the best May sales in company history. Hyundai sedans again led the way; the new-for-2006 Sonata improved sales by 112 percent, and the Azera posted an 84 percent increase over XG350 sales from May of last year.

"Our new sedans continue to set the pace in 2006," said Mark Barnes, vice president, National Sales, Hyundai Motor America. "We are already ahead of last year's record-breaking pace and we expect our exceptional value, unsurpassed safety and sophisticated design to continue to resonate with consumers as we bring several new models to dealerships during the summer and fall. This month, we have released our new three-door Accent, which is perfect for today's market with a strong value and fuel economy message."

Posted by Frank at 05:02 AM | Comments (0)

June 01, 2006

Honda Up 16.1% in May

Torrance, Calif. 06/01/2006 -- Posting robust sales of its best-selling Accord, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced May results of 141,810 Honda and Acura vehicle sales, marking an increase of 16.1 percent over May 2005. Lead by the seventh consecutive month of record-breaking sales of light trucks, American Honda posted record May truck sales of 56,912, up 5.0 percent. Year-to-date American Honda total vehicle sales of 614,778 are up 8.6 percent calculated by daily selling rate.

The Honda Division posted a record May for its fifth consecutive record month, with sales of 125,639 cars and light trucks, an increase of 16.6 percent over year-ago results. Civic sales of 29,006 reflect a 12.4 percent May increase and Accord sales increased 15.6 percent to 36,967. Record May Pilot sales of 12,856 reflect a 22.1 percent increase, helping the division post record May sales of 53,418 trucks, up 8.5 percent over year-ago results. The Ridgeline and CR-V also posted record May results, up 35.5 percent and 4.9 percent, respectively. The all-new Honda Fit sold 5,248 units in its first full month of sales. Honda also sold a total of 3,502 hybrid vehicles.

"Honda's compelling new Fit and Civic models are helping to drive customers into our dealers," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. "However, it's Honda's fuel economy leadership that is driving sales."

The Acura Division posted May sales of 16,171 with strong demand of 3,520 units for the TSX. The TL luxury performance sedan was Acura's best-selling model with May sales of 5,977 and year-to-date sales of 30,756.

Posted by Frank at 09:30 PM | Comments (0)

Subaru Up 13.3% in May

- May sales up 13 percent
- Impreza and Forester sales up 18 percent
- Total sales up 3 percent year-to-date -

CHERRY HILL, N.J., June 1 -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported its second best May sales month ever, with sales totaling 16,406 units, a 13 percent increase compared with the same period last year. Year- to-date sales are also up 3 percent over last year.

Both the Subaru Impreza and Forester lines were up 18 percent, with the Subaru Impreza posting 3,152 unit sales and Subaru Forester totaling 4,160 units for the month. The Subaru B9 Tribeca also recorded a strong 1,481 units for the month of May. The Subaru Legacy model line posted a total of 7,197 units, with Subaru Outback posting 5,065 units for the month. Subaru Baja recorded 416 units in May.

Posted by Frank at 09:18 PM | Comments (0)

Chrysler Group Reports May 2006 Sales Decline 14 Percent

- Dodge Caliber Sales Surge 15 Percent Over April 2006 Results
- Dodge Charger Sales Improve 15 Percent Over Last Month; Sales Rise 459 Percent Year-over-year
- Minivan Sales Keep Pace with Previous Year Results
-Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee Diesel is Announced with First Quarter 2007 Availability
-Jeep Commander Sales Show Continued Strength; Sales Rise 20 Percent Over Prior Month Results

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 1 - Chrysler Group reported that U.S. sales for May 2006 declined 14 percent to 191,261 units compared to sales of 214,575 units in May 2005. Sales are reported on a day- rate adjusted basis unless otherwise indicated.

"Industry sales were soft in May and Chrysler Group sales displayed similar results," said Gary Dilts, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President - Sales. "However, our newest model, the Dodge Caliber is proving to be a strong performer against a weak month for the industry. It clearly has a strong appeal with customers."

In the face of declining consumer confidence, rising interest rates and high fuel prices, Chrysler Group is responding to customer concerns with powertrain options that deliver high fuel economy, power with improved fuel efficiency and alternative fuel choices.

"The company is launching new products this year, led by the Dodge Caliber and followed by the Jeep Compass, that are powered by a new family of 4 cylinder engines that provide high fuel economy. And, the HEMI(R) engine MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and delivers up to 20 percent improvement in fuel economy," said Dilts.

Chrysler Group is also a leader in diesel engine technology, delivering vehicles with diesel engines that can achieve up to 30 percent better fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20 percent.

Customer response to the all-new Dodge Caliber continues to be robust, with May 2006 sales of 12,422 units surpassing April sales of 11,236 units by 15 percent. Days supply for the Dodge Caliber is 13 days.

Sales of the Dodge Charger increased 15 percent over April 2006 sales to 10,725 units. Sales rose 459 percent over May 2005 sales of 1,841 units, the first month the vehicle was available to customers.

Chrysler Group's industry-leading Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans with the exclusive Stow 'n Go(TM) seating and storage system, posted a solid month of sales at 40,011 units, a decline of 2 percent over May 2005 sales of 39,309 when adjusted for selling days. Sales rose 2 percent on an unadjusted basis.

Jeep(R) Commander, the first Jeep with 7-passenger seating, posted a sales increase of 20 percent to 6,138 units over April 2006 sales of 5,301 units.

In 2006, the Jeep brand will continue to expand with the addition of a new Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot models.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee nameplate broadens its appeal with the addition of the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel, the first diesel-powered full-size sport utility vehicle in the U.S. The Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel is powered by a 3.0-liter CRD engine which provides up to a 30 percent improvement in fuel economy.

The 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 3.0-liter CRD engine will be available on the Laredo, Limited and Overland models beginning in the first quarter of 2007.

"Our 0 percent for 60 months financing program addresses the rising interest rates affecting most consumers, and the launch of products like the Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass address higher fuel prices that are influencing customer car choices," said Dilts. "As the economy evolves and consumer confidence improves during the second half of this year, we will have up to 10 new products in the market for customers to choose from."

Chrysler Group finished the month with 592,486 units of inventory, or a 77-day supply.

Posted by Frank at 08:59 PM | Comments (0)

BMW Group Reports 5 Percent Increase in May Sales

Year-to-Date Sales of BMW Group up 10 Percent

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported strong demand for its vehicles in May, with sales of 28,360 vehicles, up 5.3 percent over the 26,926 vehicles sold in the same month of 2005. The BMW Group also reported an increase of 10 percent in year-to-date sales, for 129,511 vehicles over the 117,844 vehicles reported in May 2005.

BMW Brand Sales Increase in May

Sales of BMW brand vehicles rose 7 percent in May for a total of 24,688 compared to 23,048 reported in the same month a year ago.

BMW brand sales were up 13.6 percent year-to-date, as the company reported sales of 113,041 vehicles compared to 99,472 vehicles sold in first five months of 2005.

BMW Automobile Sales

BMW's automobile sales were up 11 percent in May to 19,645 versus 17,744 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales also were up 20 percent, to 87,956 automobiles compared to 73,141 in the same period of 2005.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales

Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 5 percent in May to 5,043 vehicles over the 5,304 sold last May. Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were also off 5 percent, to 25,085 vehicles compared to the 26,331 sold in the same period of 2005.

Certified Pre-Owned

Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles were up 31 percent, and the company reported its second-best sales month ever with 8,259 CPO vehicles versus 6,298 vehicles reported last May. Year-to-date, CPO sales were up 23 percent, to 36,889 over the 29,929 reported in the same period in 2005.

MINI Brand

MINI USA reported May sales of 3,672 automobiles, down 5.3 percent from the 3,878 cars sold in May 2005. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 16,470 automobiles, a drop of 10 percent, compared to the 18,372 cars reported in the first five months of 2005.

Posted by Frank at 08:56 PM | Comments (0)

Volkswagen Up 35.6% in May

VW scored a big sales win in May with a 35.6% sales increase, with the Jetta, Passat, Golf and Beetle all posting increases.

Press release:
Volkswagen of America, Inc. today reported May sales of 22,100, a 35.6 percent increase over prior year sales of 16,297.

Volkswagen's volume car, the Jetta, continues to gain momentum -- up 48.5 percent versus last year, while the newly re-designed Passat posted a tremendous increase over May of 2005.

Year-to-date sales show an increase of 23.6 percent (95,924 for 2006 as compared to 77,633 for 2005). Below is the breakdown of the models for the Volkswagen brand in May 2006.

Posted by Frank at 08:53 PM | Comments (0)

Audi Up 10.3% in May

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Audi of America, Inc. reported May sales of 7,120, representing a 10.3 percent increase over May 2005 sales of 6,455. Last month’s figures were the highest totals for May since 2003. For the year, Audi sales are up 6.3 percent at 32,416.

A4 model line sales reached 3,582, an impressive 34.1 percent increase over May 2005, A6 sedan and Avant sales were also up a strong 21.6 percent over last May.

“Audi continues to gain strength, and is still on pace for record sales this year.” says Executive Vice President Johan de Nysschen. “With our new SUV, the Audi Q7 and the RS 4 sports sedan now arriving at dealers, Audi is poised to gain sales in segments we had not occupied in the past.”

Following the Audi Q7 and RS 4 launches, Audi will also launch the new A4 and S4 Cabriolets, and the V10-powered S6 and S8 performance models in the fall.

Posted by Frank at 08:50 PM | Comments (0)

Porsche Breaks Even in May

Porsche sales were down slightly, 0.7% in May, and it appears the new Cayman is stealing sales from the Boxster -- the 549 units of trhe new model essentially accounted for the drop in Boxster sales.

Press release after the jump.

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 1, 2006--Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars and Cayenne SUVs in the United States and Canada, today announced brisk sales for the month of May in the U.S., on par with last year's best-ever May for the German automaker. Through the first five months of 2006 the Porsche brand continues to set a record pace for the year.

For May 2006, Porsche reported new-car sales in the U.S. of 3,272, just 0.7 percent behind 2005's top mark for May of 3,291. So far in 2006, Porsche is continuing its record-breaking pace establishing year-to-date sales of 15,730, which is 16 percent ahead of 2005's five month total of 13,575.

Porsche 911 model line up has helped drive Porsche's sales in the U.S. all year. In May, sales of the 911 were up 9 percent from the same time last year with totals of 1,087 versus 999 in May of 2005. Five-month sales in 2006 of 5,155 were 20 percent ahead of the same period last year. The Boxster/Cayman series, which enjoyed combined sales of 1,147 for May and a 16.8 percent increase over the same month a year prior, has recorded a year-to-date total of 5,572, an increase of 51.4 percent compared with the same period last year.

In addition, dealers sold 598 Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicles in May.

Posted by Frank at 08:43 PM | Comments (0)

Win A Honda Fit at House of Blues

Honda has teamed up with the House of Blues restaurants to sponsor 27 concerts at nine locations around the country during the summer.

You can sign up to win a Honda fit at the website, and also take a look at this arty Fit that's going up for auction on eBay in July.

Fit in the House.

Posted by Frank at 08:21 PM | Comments (0)

Caution: Be Wary About Extended Warranties

This NY Times article profiles some customers who've had good and bad experiences with extended warranties, but glosses over those offered by the manufacturers.

Plus, there's no mention of the one we favor, Geico's Mechanical Breakdown Insurance.

Posted by Frank at 06:34 PM | Comments (0)

Ford's Zero Percent, Zero $ on Gas Promotion

Ford is offering zero percent financing and a $1,000 gas card starting June 1 and running through July 31.

“Drive on Us is going to set the pace for the industry this summer,” said Al Giombetti, president, Ford Marketing and Sales. “No matter what a customer is in the market for – whether it’s cutting-edge hybrid technology, a fuel-efficient car or the most capable diesel or E-85 pickups you can buy, we have an offer that is simple, a great value and available nationwide.”

-- As part of every sale, Ford will offer customers a pre-paid MasterCard debit card that can be used to purchase up to $1,000 of gas, E-85 or diesel – enough to drive 6,000 miles ($1,100 on select trucks and SUVs).

-- Alternatively, customers can choose bonus cash of $1,000 which can be taken in cash or applied to the purchase agreement.

-- Customer cash of $1,000 - $4,000 is available on several models in lieu of zero percent financing.

Posted by Frank at 06:27 PM | Comments (0)

Al Gore's Inconvenient Truth Turns the Heat Up

An Inconvenient Truth is now playing in limited release around the country and if the trailer is any indication, this "reality" eco-thriller is a scary movie without a feel good ending. The movie seeks to make the case that global warming is real and threatens the lives of everyone on Earth. I don't hink Bruce Willis cracks wise in this one.

Former Vice President Al Gore narrates the filnm, and here's his takeway premise: "The scientific consensus is that we are causing global warming."

Gore says it's a moral issue not a political one. And if you can get an Iraq vet away from the Fox channel line long enough, most of them will tell you they think we're there for the oil.

So really, it's both a moral and a political issue. The most important of our time? That's up to each of us to decide for ourselves.

Movie website.

Posted by Frank at 06:04 PM | Comments (0)

Cingular's Supercharged NASCAR Golf Cart

Nascar star Jeff Burton burns rubber in a supercharged golf cart in an ad for Cingular wireless -- which you can watch thanks to AdAge.com

Link.

Posted by Frank at 05:52 PM | Comments (0)

Jeep Bringing Diesel Grand Cherokee in 2007

Jeep will outfit the 2007 Grand Cherokee with a 3-liter diesel engine, becoming the first automaker to market a full--size SUV. Jeep already markets the Liberty with a 2-liter Common Rail Diesel [CRD] engine and has sold over 11,000 units since sales began.

The 3.0 CRD produces 215 horsepower, which might sound anemic to hp-happy American consumers, but as diesel produces greater torque than gas engines the pickup and get off the line-ability of the CRD Grand Cherokee will impress anyone who drives it.

The CRD Grand Cherokee will get an an estimated fuel economy of 19 miles city and 23 miles highway. The current V6 gas engine gets 17/21 mpg.

Posted by Frank at 05:42 PM | Comments (0)