Car Buyer's Notebook.com

April 30, 2007

Repowering Your Engine May Be Key to Long-Term Financial Happiness

New Car Smell Wears Off - Payments Linger for Years

BETHESDA -- Everybody wants a new car. You see a nice car pass you on the highway and think, 'Why can't I have that?' However, financial planners think keeping your current car may help you in the long run with your goal of financial freedom, according to the Engine Repower Council (ERC).

"We advise our clients that if they want a 10-percent increase on their investments every year they need to cut down on their expenses," said Terry Mulcahy, vice president of investments for R.W. Baird in Mequon, Wis. "A new automobile is for most people their second biggest investment next to a home, so a great way to save money and increase financial assets is to hang onto their current vehicle rather than buy a new one every few years."

Repowering an engine rather buying a new car can be an excellent way to cut costs and keep the vehicle.

"When a car or truck suffers major engine damage, often the first reaction of most consumers is to buy a new or used vehicle, but the cost to repower an engine is a drop in the bucket compared to monthly payments on a new car," according to ERC Chairman Tom Schrader. "The bottom line is that a repowered engine makes a vehicle more dependable, more fuel efficient, less polluting and more valuable."

With repowering, your engine or an identical one from another like- vehicle, is completely remanufactured/rebuilt. Also, unlike installing a used or junkyard engine, critically important internal parts get replaced with new ones that meet or exceed original equipment performance standards.

Frequently, remanufactured/rebuilt engines are even better than the new engines installed at the factory. This is because the original factory engine problems have been redesigned or repaired with better quality parts. They are dependable, reliable and backed by excellent warranty programs that also usually cover installation expenses.

The Engine Repower Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating consumers about the economic and environmental benefits of remanufactured/rebuilt engines. The Engine Repower Council supports the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign. For more information about the Engine Repower Council and where to find qualified rebuilt engines and installation providers, visit http://www.enginerepower.org/.

Source: Car Care Council; Engine Repower Council

Posted by Frank at 1:50 PM

$3.50 Gas Price Fall-Out Survey: Most Americans Think They Are Getting Gouged at the Pump

Will Cut Summer Travel, Spending Plans If Prices Keep Rising

Civil Society Institute/40MPG Survey Also to Show Most Americans Want Higher Federal Fuel Efficiency Standard Now

Most Americans think they are being gouged at the gas pump and say that will cut back on their summer travel plans and general spending if fuel prices continue to climb to $3.50 a gallon or even higher, according to a major new Opinion Research Corporation (ORC) survey conducted for the nonprofit Civil Society Institute (CSI) think tank and its 40MPG.org project.

The CSI/40MPG.org survey will show that most Americans expect gasoline to reach $3.50 a gallon this summer and that they want action from Washington now on significantly increased federal fuel-efficiency standards for cars and other vehicles. Another key finding: With gasoline prices rising steadily so far in 2007, an increasing number of Americans are inclined to buy hybrids or other highly fuel-efficient vehicles.

News event speakers will be:
-- Civil Society Institute President and 40MPG.org founder Pam Solo;
-- 40MPG.org spokesperson Ailis Aaron Wolf; and
-- Opinion Research Corporation Senior Research Associate Graham Hueber.

Source: Civil Society Institute and 40mpg.org, Newton, MA

Posted by Frank at 1:49 PM

Chrysler Introduces Aspen Hemi Hybrid

* Chrysler Aspen Hybrid joins Dodge Durango Hybrid in 2008

* Vehicles feature 5.7-liter HEMI® Hybrid with Multi-displacement System (MDS)

* HEMI Hybrid delivers more than 25-percent fuel economy improvement

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 30, 2007 - That new Chrysler Aspen Hybrid gotta HEMI®?

Yes, it does – as does the new Dodge Durango Hybrid. Both vehicles, powered by Chrysler Group’s all-new 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid powertrain, debut next year as the first volume-production hybrid offerings from the Chrysler Group and the first vehicles to feature DaimlerChrysler’s advanced two-mode hybrid technology.

“The all-new Chrysler Group HEMI Hybrid will offer our customers the best of both worlds: renowned performance and significantly improved fuel economy,” said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler Group. “With the new HEMI-powered Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, we are delivering the ultimate combination of fuel efficiency, overall performance and capability in a premium full-size SUV.”

The new 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid is expected to deliver an overall fuel economy improvement of more than 25 percent, including an improvement of nearly 40 percent in the city.

The HEMI powerplant, in hybrid form, will continue to feature Chrysler Group’s Multi-displacement System (MDS), which allows the engine to seamlessly alternate between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. For the fifth year in a row — and every year since its 2003 re-introduction — Chrysler Group’s famous 5.7-liter HEMI engine has earned a place on Ward's 10 Best Engines list.

The new Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles represent a bold change in what is generally a “me too” category. Chrysler Group’s full-size hybrid vehicles will deliver seamless dependable power on demand in an efficient package. With an electrically variable transmission (featuring two electric motors), two full hybrid modes of operation, and four fixed mechanical gear ratios, the drive system improves fuel economy around town and at highway speeds.

Chrysler Aspen
Boasting elegant Chrysler styling, unsurpassed capability and performance and abundant premium amenities, the Chrysler Aspen is a premium SUV that is a value alternative to luxury-priced competitors. Offering more for less, Aspen features numerous premium features, elegant Chrysler design, 30 safety features and best-in-class horsepower, torque and interior room.

Two-mode Hybrid
Chrysler Group’s two-mode hybrid powertrain — jointly developed by DaimlerChrysler, General Motors and the BMW Group — represents a major automotive industry milestone due to the unprecedented fully integrated combination of electric motors with a fixed-gear transmission.

As a result of the low- and high-speed electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) modes, the system is commonly referred to as the two-mode hybrid. However, the sophisticated fuel-saving system also incorporates four fixed gear ratios for high efficiency and power-handling capabilities in a broad variety of vehicle applications. The new Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles can be powered either by the electric motors or by the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine – or a combination of the two. During the two ECVT modes and four fixed-gear operations, the hybrid system can use the electric motors for boosting and/or regenerative braking. When full power is needed, the system automatically adjusts for passing, driving steep grades or hauling a trailer. The result is trend-setting hybrid technology that provides superior fuel economy, performance and load-carrying capability.

Joint Development Center
Located in Troy, Mich., the DaimlerChrysler, GM and BMW Hybrid Development Center jointly developed the overall modular two-mode hybrid system and the individual components: electric motors, transmission, high-voltage battery, high-performance electronics, wiring, safety systems, energy management and hybrid system control units. In addition, the Hybrid Development Center is responsible for system integration and project management.

Chrysler Group Advanced Propulsion Technology
Hybrid technology is one part of Chrysler Group’s advanced propulsion technology umbrella, which also includes efficient gasoline engines, advanced clean-diesel technology, and ethanol flex-fuel and zero-emission fuel cell vehicles. DaimlerChrysler is the only automaker building plug-in hybrids and testing them with customers in the United States.

Posted by Frank at 9:36 AM

Style Watch: Survey Finds Ford Leading in Laws of Attraction

Consumer Perceptions of New Vehicle Brands With Best Exterior Styling Revealed

'Brand Watch' Finds Ford's Exteriors Lead Among New Truck and SUVs Shoppers

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kelley Blue Book has announced the results of the 'Exterior Styling' segment of its newest automotive research study, Brand Watch.

The results hold some surprises. Nissan was singled out for exceptional exterior styling of its sedans, besting all contenders including import-brand sales leaders Honda and Toyota, which finished second and third respectively. Even though Ford Motor Company is having well-publicized challenges, their trucks and SUVs are perceived as having the best exterior stylishness among active shoppers in those categories.

Domestic brands took the top spots for exterior styling in the truck segment with GMC second, Chevrolet in third, and Dodge fourth putting import truck brands Toyota in fifth place, Nissan in eighth place and Honda in eleventh place for exterior styling.

In four of the seven segments, import brands were perceived by consumers as having superior styling. BMW took the top slot among consumers regarding exterior styling for both luxury SUVs and luxury sedans.

In both luxury segments and the convertibles/sports cars category, active shoppers placed Mercedes-Benz in the top three, although the German luxury brand did not rank No. 1 in any of the categories. Porsche, Lexus and Infiniti also garnered top-three finishes in various categories.

"As vehicle reliability reaches near-parity in the market, we predict that exterior styling will play an even bigger role in building new-vehicle sales and brand equity," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst, Kelley Blue Book. "The results of the Brand Watch study demonstrate that the industry is, and should be, placing great emphasis on what their vehicles look like."

Kelley Blue Book Brand Watch Study: Exterior Styling

Convertibles/Sports Cars
1. Porsche
2. Mercedes-Benz
3. Jaguar

Trucks
1. Ford
2. GMC
3. Chevrolet

Minivans
1. Dodge
2. Toyota
3. Honda

Luxury SUVs
1. BMW
2. Lexus
3. Mercedes-Benz

Non-Luxury SUVs
1. Ford
2. Toyota
3. GMC

Luxury Sedan
1. BMW
2. Mercedes-Benz
3. Infiniti

Non-Luxury Sedan
1. Nissan
2. Honda
3. Toyota

"Exterior styling is one of the top decision factors among vehicle shoppers, and consumers' perceptions can add or eliminate a brand from someone's consideration list," said Rick Wainschel vice president, marketing and market research, Kelley Blue Book. "The real-time reporting of the Brand Watch data and the ability to see these brand perceptions can be extremely helpful in tracking shifts in new vehicle shopper attitudes and developing responses to those shifts."

Available to vehicle manufacturers and auto industry professionals, Brand Watch taps into active shoppers to determine their perceptions of automotive brands within specific automotive segments. Brand Watch further delves into how each manufacturer's brand equity differs across vehicle segments, compares the relative standing of each make vs. competitive makes, and reveals the decision factors of car-buyers within each make and segment. Detailed demographic and psychographic information is also collected, reported and detailed throughout Brand Watch's comprehensive study which is available quarterly from Kelley Blue Book Marketing Research.

Source: Kelley Blue Book

Posted by Frank at 9:20 AM

Ferrari Celebrates 60th Anniversary with the New Colnago

Bike to be Unveiled at CHINA CYCLE 2007

SHANGHAI, China -- The new "Colnago for Ferrari'' was created in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the prestigious Italian car manufacturer Ferrari. This new model will be introduced worldwide for the first time at the CHINA CYCLE show held in Shanghai from May 4-7.

The bike will be displayed in Hall W1, 0915, Leeduo's booth.

This exclusive bicycle is based on the Colnago Extreme Power frame, completely made in carbon fibre and assembled through lugs, which allows for a truly custom-made bicycle.

The 60th anniversary "Colnago for Ferrari" has the classical red livery, symbol of the ''cavallino rampante'' house, and on the front a stylized Italian tricolour flag, symbol of these two leaders of the ''Made in Italy'' design.

The fork is the Carbon Star completely made in carbon fibre, synonymous of reliability and safety. The ''Colnago for Ferrari'' will be the 60th anniversary pearl, and will be produced as a limited series.

Source: Shanghai International Exhibition Co., Ltd.

Posted by Frank at 9:15 AM

Change-over in the board of management of Porsche as planed

Stuttgart -- On May 01, 2007, Thomas Edig (45) will assume the position of Member of Porsche’s Management Board responsible for Human Resources and the function of Personnel Director at Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart.

The Supervisory Board had appointed the Stuttgart native to the Management Board on July 26, 2006. He is succeeding Harro Harmel, who, having reached the age of 65, is retiring at the end of May after 25 successful years with the sports car manufacturer, but will continue to serve the Company as a consultant.

Thomas Edig studied business at the Karlsruhe University of Cooperative Education and is a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at the French business school INSEAD Fontainebleau. His professional career began in 1986 at Alcatel.

After holding several international executive functions, he was appointed as a member of the Management Board and made Personnel Director of Alcatel SEL AG in Stuttgart in 1998. In early 2002, he was then promoted to Head of Personnel on the Group Management Board of Alcatel S.A. in Paris.

He moved to Deutsche Telekom AG in Bonn on April 1, 2006, where he was responsible for Human Resources and Organization as member of the T-Com Board of Management. On December 1, 2006, he began working in the Human Resources division of Porsche AG and has since managed several special projects.

Posted by Frank at 9:08 AM

Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland, round 2

Motorsport Arena Oschersleben, Preview -- Richard Westbrook leads the points – new quali format promises suspense

Stuttgart -- For the first time in the 18-year history of the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland, a Briton leads the field. Richard Westbrook from London beat the entire German Cup-elite at the season-opener two weeks ago on the Hockenheimring and travels to the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben as front-runner.

The 32-year-old professional racer is regarded as one of the best Porsche race drivers. He contests the Carrera Cup Deutschland series as the reigning champion of the international Porsche Mobil1 Supercup. In 2004 Westbrook won the national Carrera Cup of Great Britain.

Narrowly defeated in Hockenheim, Joerg Hardt and Chris Mamerow (both Germany) climbed the podium in second and third respectively, with compatriot and reigning vice-champion of the series Uwe Alzen finishing fourth.

The ex-Formula 3 pilot and former Porsche Club races Michel Frey from Switzerland finished his first race in the points as best new-comer. The 33-year-old salesman saw the chequered flag in seventh position.

Two other new arrivals, Olivier Pla (France) and Pascal Kochem (Germany), took off into their first full Carrera Cup season with a top-ten result at Hockenheim, claiming ninth and tenth. René Rast (Germany) put in an impressive qualifying performance, posting fifth with his 400 hp 911 GT3 Cup, but had to settle for 14th in the race after a spin.

With eighth, Jan Seyffarth made a promising start to the season. For the race driver who lives about 100 kilometres south of Oschersleben, his “home race” is particularly important. Ex-DTM driver Thomas Jäger, Florian Scholze and Hannes Plesse (all Germany), who also come from this region, are keen to give home crowds an exciting show.

In 2006, Uwe Alzen planted his 911 GT3 on pole (1:28.320 min.) and won the race ahead of Richard Lietz (Austria) followed by the eventual 2006 champion Dirk Werner (Germany). With a new format this year's qualifying session promises extra suspense: Due to the 40-strong starter field, the qualifying will be in two sessions. In the first 15 minutes all competitors go for grid positions. The result determines positions 16 to 40. After a five-minute break the fastest 15 then go out for a ten-minute “shoot-out” for the top starting positions. On Sunday the 22-lap race takes off with a Grand Prix start from a standstill.

Posted by Frank at 9:06 AM

Porsche submits mandatory offer for Volkswagen shares

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, Germany, submitted its mandatory offer to acquire shares of Volkswagen AG, Wolfsburg, Germany, on this Monday after the offer documentation was officially approved by the Federal Agency for Financial Services Supervision (BaFin) for publication.

The acceptance period is limited to approximately four weeks and ends on May 29, 2007. The price offered to the Volkswagen shareholders amounts to €100.92 per common share and €65.54 per preferred share, which represents the minimum price required by law.

Porsche does not consider a premium on the minimum price to be appropriate, as the price of Volkswagen shares has risen significantly since the Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer took an interest in the company.

Posted by Frank at 9:05 AM

April 29, 2007

GM Finds Profit Religion as Toyota Overtakes It

DETROIT -- Back in 2002 GM executives sported lapel pins embossed with the number 29, representing the company's market-share goal after it had reached a dominant 28.6%. The world's biggest marketer was all about share.

This week, after Toyota Motor Corp. ended General Motors Corp.'s 76-year reign as the planet's largest car seller, the Detroit giant is officially singing a different tune. It's not a share game now, according to the automaker.

"We're focused on providing the best cars and trucks for our customers all around the world," John M. McDonald, a GM spokesman was widely quoted as saying following the news. "We're not focused on a race."

While the notion of chasing profit rather than share has been gaining steam in other sectors, it's a realization that's come to share-obsessed Detroit mainly in the past year. It's driven by the fact that GM, Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler Group "have no other choice" than to focus on profitability to survive, said Edmunds.com senior analyst Jesse Toprak.

Of course, it's still an ego-bruising event in Detroit, but consumers don't care that GM has fallen to No. 2, said Art Spinella, president of consultant CNW Market Research. They are looking for good products and good value, and GM needs to focus on profit.

Posted by Frank at 8:52 PM

Carbon-Neutral: Another Fear-Driven, Pseudo Scientific Liberal Scam?

Carbon-Neutral Is Hip, but Is It Green?

THE rush to go on a carbon diet, even if by proxy, is in overdrive.

In addition to the celebrities — Leo, Brad, George — politicians like John Edwards and Hillary Clinton are now running, at least part of the time, carbon-neutral campaigns.

A lengthening list of big businesses — international banks, London’s taxi fleet, luxury airlines — also claim “carbon neutrality.” Silverjet, a plush new trans-Atlantic carrier, bills itself as the first fully carbon-neutral airline. It puts about $28 of each round-trip ticket into a fund for global projects that, in theory, squelch as much carbon dioxide as the airline generates — about 1.2 tons per passenger, the airline says.

Also, a largely unregulated carbon-cutting business has sprung up. In this market, consultants or companies estimate a person’s or company’s output of greenhouse gases. Then, these businesses sell “offsets,” which pay for projects elsewhere that void or sop up an equal amount of emissions — say, by planting trees or, as one new company proposes, fertilizing the ocean so algae can pull the gas out of the air. Recent counts by Business Week magazine and several environmental watchdog groups tally the trade in offsets at more than $100 million a year and growing blazingly fast.

But is the carbon-neutral movement just a gimmick?

Posted by Frank at 8:42 PM

Toyota: An automaker wired to win

There are milestones — and then there are ground-shifting, era-smashing milestones. And word Tuesday that Toyota dislodged General Motors as the world's biggest seller of cars and trucks for the first time ever (at least on a quarterly basis) is no ordinary bit of business news.

It has been expected, on an annual basis at least. GM is clearly in retrenchment mode and confronts a massive retiree pension and health-care tab the likes of which doesn't burden Toyota. GM Chief Executive Rick Wagoner has vowed repeatedly that his company has no intention of ceding industry leadership to Toyota, and perhaps his team at the Renaissance Center in Detroit can somehow rekindle the company's competitive zest and stage a miraculous comeback.

It could happen. However, the odds aren't great. Toyota's current sales momentum is being powered in the U.S. by demand for its Corolla and Camry sedans and its hybrid-powered Prius and the Lexus luxury lineup. It blew by the Chrysler Group as the U.S.'s No. 3 seller of autos in 2006, and continues to gain market share.

Posted by Frank at 8:40 PM

Gore: Canada Climate Plan a 'Fraud,' Perpetrated by 'Hosers'

TORONTO -- Al Gore condemned Canada's new plan to reduce greenhouse gases, saying it was "a complete and total fraud" because it lacks specifics and gives industry a way to actually increase emissions.

Under the initiative announced Thursday, Canada aims to reduce the current level of greenhouse gas emissions 20 percent by 2020. But the government acknowledged it would not meet its obligations under the Kyoto Protocol, which requires 35 industrialized countries to cut greenhouse-gas emissions by 5 percent below 1990 levels by 2012.

The country's emissions are now 30 percent above 1990 levels.

The conservative government's strategy focuses both on reducing emissions of gases blamed for global warming and improving air quality. But the plan failed to spell out what many of its regulations will look like.

Gore said the plan did not make clear how Canada would reach its 2020 emissions goal. He also criticized the plan for allowing industries to pollute more if they use emissions-cutting technologies while increasing production.

"In my opinion, it is a complete and total fraud," Gore said Saturday. "It is designed to mislead the Canadian people."

Posted by Frank at 8:36 PM

Black, Latino drivers fare worse in traffic stops

WASHINGTON - Black, Hispanic and white drivers are equally likely to be pulled over by police, but blacks and Hispanics are much more likely to be searched and arrested, a federal study found.

Police were much more likely to threaten or use force against blacks and Hispanics than against whites in any encounter, whether at a traffic stop or elsewhere, according to the Justice Department.

The study, released Sunday by the department’s Bureau of Justice Statistics, covered police contacts with the public during 2005 and was based on interviews by the Census Bureau with nearly 64,000 people age 16 or over.

Posted by Frank at 7:57 PM

Milka Duno Passes IndyCar Rookie Test

Duno Aces Speed Requirements, Will Participate at Kansas Race

KANSAS CITY, Kan. -- Milka Duno has passed the official "Rookie Test" for the 2007 IndyCar Series and will participate in this weekend's activities for the Kansas Lottery Indy 300 at Kansas Speedway. The race, this Sunday, April 29, will be televised live on ESPN2 beginning at 4:30pm ET. This will be Milka's first IndyCar Series race on a planned first-year ten-race schedule that includes the 91st running of the Indy 500 on May 27.

While Milka is an experienced and race-winning sports car racer -- just like any racer entering the IndyCar Series for the first time -- she will be considered a "rookie" during her first season and must pass their "Rookie Test" in order to compete.

With multiple scheduled test sessions over the last few weeks cancelled due to weather issues there was concern that Milka may not be able to complete the time behind the wheel of her #23 CITGO Racing Dallara Honda desired to prepare for the required test at the Kansas circuit.

But finally, and for the first time in several weeks, Mother Nature did ultimately cooperate and Milka was able to successfully complete the necessary requirements and gain additional seat time yesterday afternoon. Milka and her team were officially notified at the end of the session that she had met the requirements and could move forward.

"I'm happy. I guess now I am Indy," Duno said with a big smile. "We didn't have all the track time that we were supposed to leading up to this because of the weather conditions. My team did a great job getting the car prepared. I'm learning so much from all the guys that have experience in Indy car racing, especially my engineer, Steve Challis, and my driver coach, Pancho Carter. I was trying to do the best I could and follow the grooves. But this is just the first step. Like everyone else, you start with your first race. Every driver has to get experience, and it starts with the first race. The first practice, the first qualifying, the first race."

"This new accomplishment further demonstrates Milka's great skills and racing potential. We at CITGO are very proud of having Milka as the ambassador of our Energia Latina campaign. She is a very strong role model for Venezuelan women and Latinas everywhere. Milka: CITGO is with you at every turn," said Rafael Gomez, CITGO's VP of Strategic Shareholder Relations and Government & Public Affairs.

"We're very happy," said Peter Baron, team principal of SAMAX Motorsport. "With all the drama of the rain and cold, it's definitely exciting to be ready and moving forward to Sunday. I feel like we've just passed our college exams. It's nice to get that done and over with. It's exciting but now we are on to the next chapter."

Source: CITGO Racing

Posted by Frank at 7:44 PM

Auto Shanghai 2007 Ends With Great Success

SHANGHAI, China, -- Themed on 'Technology and Nature in Harmony', World Expo Group Shanghai International Exhibition Co., Ltd. announced that Auto Shanghai 2007 ended with great success on April 28.

Auto Shanghai 2007 attracted over 1300 exhibitors from 21 countries and regions with a total exhibition scale of 140000 s.m, which exceeds previous chapters. Organizers have dedicated themselves to positioning Auto Shanghai as an A-Class auto show by showcasing professionalism, internationalization and branding.

Well-known Brands' automobile groups treats Auto Shanghai as one of the important international A-Class auto shows, no matter the investment, quantity, or quality of exhibited vehicles (first appearance cars and concept cars).

General Motors Corp. chairman G. Richard Wagoner Jr., BMW chairman Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland Executive Vice President of Volkswagen Group, Yoshi Inaba Vice Chairman of Toyota Motor Group and well-known vehicles designers showed up on the press day.

Based on the theme of Auto Shanghai 2007, 'Technology and Nature in Harmony', exhibitors showcased and released their energy saving, solar energy, non-air polluting cars, which makes Auto Shanghai 2007, a high-tech event which has the ability to profoundly transform the concept of car.

The total number of exhibited cars was 868, overseas cars were 265, among which 130 were imported directly from overseas, domestic car were 603. Totally, 5 global first appearance cars, over 20 concept cars, 10 new energy cars, which rank the top among all editions, were on display, offering visitors a range of choices.

During the whole exhibition period (April 20 to 28), over 500,000 visitors from 108 countries and regions came to visit Auto Shanghai 2007, which ranks the highest in Auto Shanghai. April 22 is the first day open to trade visitors. 103,567 visitors from 92 countries and regions showed up, which tops (in visitors per day) the previous record in the history of Auto Shanghai.

Organizers have launched a series of high-tech and human-oriented services solutions in line with the international service standard. Organizers were well prepared with comprehensive plans in advance and launched onsite emergency resolutions, which ensured the onsite feedback in a timely manner. Each news media outlet has shown great interest in this auto exhibition.

The international mainstream media, like AP, Reuters, AFP, BBC, NHK, CNN, Forbes, Bloomberg LP, Dow Jones, Japanese Economic News, JNA Jijiga News Agency, et al., all covered Auto Shanghai 2007. CCTV, SMG Beijing Jiaotong Channel, and such portals and noted websites as Sina, Sohu, Netease, all reported on Auto Shanghai 2007 in a comprehensive way. During the exhibition, media centers greeted 6286 journalists from home and abroad in 43 different countries and regions.

In the meantime, domestically-owned auto brands were hardly neglected, showing themselves to be an important power in Auto Shanghai 2007 creating great involvement. Their exhibition space was relatively close to overseas brands as well as all released new cars and concept cars.

Source: World Expo Group Shanghai International Exhibition Co., Ltd.

Posted by Frank at 7:40 PM

Shelby and Ford Racing To Build 600+ HP Street Legal Shelby GT500 "Super Snakes"

Shelby Automobiles will use newly developed Ford Racing GT500 performance packs to help transform a limited number of 2007 and 2008 Ford Shelby GT500's into fire breathing "Super Snake" coupes.

Las Vegas -- Shelby Automobiles will use newly-developed Ford Racing GT500 performance packs to help transform a limited number of 2007 and 2008 Ford Shelby GT500's into fire breathing "Super Snake" coupes.

The Super Snake post-title package will include enhancements to the Ford Shelby GT500's handling, styling and power; tuning options will range from a warranted 600 HP V8 to over 725 HP (unwarranted). Only a limited number of Super Snakes will be built per model year at the Shelby Automobiles facility in Las Vegas beginning in late 2007.

"My team at Shelby Automobiles is always working on new ways to build better performing cars" said Carroll Shelby. "I told them that I wanted to build a vehicle that could blow the doors off of most anything on the planet. By partnering with Ford Racing, we're giving enthusiasts a Mustang with that level of performance."

Working together at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and in Dearborn, Ford Racing and Team Shelby developed the aggressive suspension and engine package specifically for the car.

"Mustang enthusiasts are demanding more from both Ford Racing and Shelby Autos" said Jamie Allison, Manager of Ford Racing Performance Group. "The GT500 Super Snake package, with its higher horsepower levels and balanced track-inspired tuning, satisfies those demands and then some … in a uniquely Ford - Shelby way."

In 1967, Shelby American built one 427-powered GT500 "Super Snake" for Mel Burns Ford. Carroll Shelby drove it at the Goodyear test track for tire promotion film production. That car reached lap speeds of over 150 mph and a top speed of 170 mph. The new Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake will be equally potent.

"The name 'Super Snake' is legendary because the one that Shelby built was the pinnacle of muscle cars in 1967," added Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles. "We're bringing that concept forward 40 years for customers who own a Ford Shelby GT500. We'll give their car amazing new capabilities."

Ford Racing and Team Shelby developed the GT500 Super Snake package which will include:

* Ford Racing Supercharger upgrade kit (SuperPack 600) producing over 600 horsepower and 590 ft.-lbs. of torque
* 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio
* Ford Racing performance exhaust system
* Ford Racing Handling Pack offering unique performance suspension tuning including Dynamic adjustable dampers, lowering springs, tuned stabilizer bars, and front strut tower brace
* Shelby-designed Alcoa 20-inch wheels
* Ford Racing short-throw shifter
* Baer 6 piston brakes with Shelby cast calipers and larger rotors
* Front brake cooling ducts
* Unique carbon composite hood featuring classic Shelby design
* 'Shelby' lettering across the front edge of hood and rear decklid
* 'Super Snake' vehicle badging
* Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests, floor mats and other Shelby designed components
* Official Shelby CSM dash plate

In addition, while the full Super Snake package will be available exclusively through Shelby Automobiles, many of the products comprising the Super Snake package will be available from Shelby Automobiles and Ford Racing starting in June.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com. For more information regarding Ford Racing performance packs, visit www.fordracingparts.com.

Posted by Frank at 7:38 PM

GM Schedules Annual Stockholders' Meeting for June 5

Distributes Proxy Statement and Annual Report

DETROIT – General Motors Corp. today filed its annual proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The proxy statement includes information about GM’s annual meeting of stockholders, to be held June 5 in Wilmington, Del., the election of directors to GM’s Board of Directors, the ratification of the selection of independent public accountants for the next year, two management proposals concerning incentive compensation and 10 stockholder proposals.

Thirteen candidates will stand for election to the board of directors at GM’s annual meeting, including two new board-nominated candidates: Erroll B. Davis, Jr., chancellor of the University System of Georgia, and Kathryn V. Marinello, president and chief executive officer of Ceridian Corporation.

Davis is a former chairman and chief executive officer of Alliant Energy Corp. and has held corporate finance positions at Xerox Corporation and Ford Motor Company. He serves on the boards of BP plc, PPG Industries, Inc. and Union Pacific Corporation.

Before her appointment at Ceridian, Marinello was president and chief executive officer of GE Fleet Services. She also serves on the board of directors of the Greater Twin Cities United Way and the Minnesota Business Partnership.

The proxy materials and 2006 annual report will be mailed to stockholders and are available online at http://investor.gm.com/.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Posted by Frank at 7:37 PM

Harley-Davidson, Inc. Announces Results of Annual Shareholder Meeting

Board of Directors Increases Dividend

MILWAUKEE, Wis. -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE:HOG) announced today that its Board of Directors increased the dividend at the Annual Shareholder Meeting in Milwaukee on April 28, 2007. All items of business presented to shareholders were approved at the meeting.

The Board of Directors of Harley-Davidson, Inc. approved a cash dividend of $0.25 per share for the second quarter of 2007. The dividend is payable June 19, 2007, to shareholders of record as of June 11, 2007. This represents an increase of slightly more than 19% over the previous dividend paid on March 20, 2007.

During the meeting, the shareholders approved the re-election of Barry K. Allen, Richard I. Beattie, and Judson C. Green as Class I Directors. Also, Ernst & Young LLP was ratified as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for calendar year 2007.

Source: Harley-Davidson, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 7:35 PM

California to continue carmaker lawsuit

SAN FRANCISCO - California will not drop a lawsuit against automobile manufacturers over greenhouse gas emissions, state Attorney General Jerry Brown said on Saturday, saying the carmakers must change their ways.

"I want to sue the automakers and get them to change their ways. In fact we are," Brown, a former state governor and presidential candidate, told delegates at the annual state Democratic party conference.

"We are engaged in a major struggle to make that industry responsible to live within appropriate environmental restraints. And yes, I want to meet with them because they have to get off the dime."

Brown's predecessor last year initiated a lawsuit alleging greenhouse gases from the carmakers' vehicles were causing climate changes costing hundreds of millions of dollars in damages to California.

Posted by Frank at 7:32 PM

GM CEO takes 25% pay cut to support turnaround

DETROIT -- General Motors Corp. Chief Executive Rick Wagoner has cut his base salary by a quarter to $1.65 million in a gesture of support for the automaker's turnaround efforts, the company said on Friday.

In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, GM said Wagoner agreed to cut his base salary as of March 1, 2007 from $2.2 million in January 2006.

Wagoner's total compensation for 2006 was $10.2 million, including $3 million in option awards and $3.6 million in stock awards, the filing said.

Separately, Wagoner said generating positive cash flow was a "top priority" for the world's largest automaker, which has lost more than $12 billion in the last two years and is in the middle of a restructuring that includes slashing more than 34,000 jobs and closing 12 plants. GM's automotive operations alone burned $3.8 billion in 2006.

Posted by Frank at 7:31 PM

Chrysler plans cut in fleet sales

DETROIT - Chrysler Group plans what it described as an "aggressive" reduction in sales to rental agencies and other fleet operators to shore up the residual value of its cars and trucks over three years, executives said on Friday.

Steven Landry, who was named on Friday to take over Chrysler's sales efforts in North America, said the automaker plans to reduce fleet sales to 21 percent of its total sales volume by end 2009.

The plan also forecasts a reduction in sales to car rental agencies to 15 percent of Chrysler's volume over the same time period, he said.

Chrysler representatives, who were speaking to reporters on a conference call to announce the appointment of new sales executives, declined to say how much of the automaker's sales volume goes to fleet buyers.

"Let's just say it's an aggressive move" -- a cut of 70,000 units in fleet sales this year and more in 2008 and 2009, said Chrysler Chief Executive Tom LaSorda.

Posted by Frank at 7:31 PM

Sources: GM offers cut rates to lower-credit buyers

General Motors Corp. is offering lower-interest financing to customers with weaker credit ratings through this weekend in an effort to boost sales for April, sources familiar with the sales plan said on Friday.

GM will offer reduced interest rates to customers whose credit is assessed at two of its lower rating levels on all brands except Saab, the sources said.

The program, aimed at offering lower monthly payments to a wider pool of potential customers, is intended to boost GM's U.S. showroom sales at the end of a month that industry executives have described as weak.

Posted by Frank at 7:30 PM

US car market in recession, says Nissan CEO

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn said on Thursday demand for new cars in the United States was weakening this year as he had feared, citing that as a risk in achieving the company’s sales targets.

“2007 is not going to be an easy year, particularly in the US market which is already heading toward a kind of recession in the auto industry,” Ghosn, who also heads Nissan partner Renault SA, told Reuters. “I was the first one to say in January that I see a market of 16 million cars for the year, and I was probably the only one. Now it looks like it’s a kind of consensus,” he said in an interview.

Nissan, Japan’s third-biggest automaker, earlier postponed its plan to achieve its three commitments laid out under the “Nissan Value-Up” business plan, mainly to account for weaker-than-expected vehicle sales in the United States and Japan.

The plan had called for an operating profit margin at the “top end” of the industry and a 20 percent return on invested capital in 2007/08. A vehicle sales target of 4.2 million units was slated for completion a year later.

Posted by Frank at 10:39 AM

April 28, 2007

Ford joins TOMS Shoes Crusade to improve kid's lives

DEARBORN – Ford Motor Company is making tracks to more than 25 cities with TOMS Shoes and Airstream International Travel Trailers as part of a spring tour aimed at helping disadvantaged children step into better, healthier lives.

TOMS is donating a pair of shoes to a needy child for each pair it sells. TOMS’s shoe samples as well as information about the program and the company will be packed into an Airstream trailer – and towed cross-country by an all-new 2007 Ford Expedition.

“American icons Ford and Airstream are recognized for helping people explore and discover new territories, and this groundbreaking connection with TOMS Shoes seemed only natural,” said Michael Laquere, Ford SUV communications manager. “The Ford Expedition is comfortable, flexible and capable, making it the perfect fit for long-haul journeys that involve both moving people and a lot of gear.”

TOMS was founded in 2006 by Blake Mycoskie out of a commitment to produce stylish, comfortable and practical footwear while improving the lives of children.

In 2006, while vacationing in Argentina, Mycoskie volunteered in poverty-stricken areas and was disheartened to see the severity of the poor living conditions. Each day men, women and children have to walk miles for fresh water with no shoes, leaving their feet injured and infected. Also, children without shoes are denied schooling.

“I was inspired by a traditional Argentine shoe and challenged by a continent’s poverty and heath issues, so I created TOMS with a singular mission: To make life more comfortable,” says Mycoskie. “I wanted to personally share my ‘fashion with a conscious’ concept with our retail partners and consumers, so we’re taking our TOMS and our ‘Shoes for Tomorrow’ program on the road, with help from Ford and Airstream.”

Earlier this year, Ford and Airstream also teamed up to reveal the Ford Airstream Concept, a futuristic crossover vehicle powered by powered by a new plug-in hydrogen hybrid fuel cell – called HySeries Drive – that operates under electric power at all times and delivers the combined city/highway equivalent fuel economy of 41 miles per gallon. Media hailed the Ford Airstream Concept as a bold, thought-leading crossover for the 21st century following its reveal at the 2007 North American International Auto Show.

Also internationally recognized and appearing on the feet of Hollywood’s elite, TOMS has already given away more than 10,000 pairs to underprivileged children in Argentina and hopes to do more after the spring tour.

TOMS is instant hit not only for its philanthropic mission but for its style. The fashionable canvas shoe comes in a variety of colors and patterns, inspired by the traditional rope-soled, Argentine shoe.

“This really is a dream come true for me. To travel cross-country spreading the message of TOMS, and to do it with such style, is wonderful. At such an early stage in our company, we feel incredibly blessed to have such blue chip partners like Ford and Airstream, and to know 10,000 more children will have shoes once we finish makes each mile traveled that much more rewarding,” says Mycoskie.

Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 300,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo. Its automotive-related services include Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.

TOMS Shoes

Inspired by an Argentine shoe with a hundred year history and the continent's poverty and health issues, TOMS was created with a singular mission: To make life more comfortable. TOMS accomplishes this through it's ultra lightweight design and the company's commitment to match every pair purchased with a donated pair to a child in need...there are no complicated formulas, it's simple - you buy a pair of TOMS and the company gives a pair to a child on your behalf. The vibrant colors and patterns in the debut collection depict Blake Mycoskie's life changing experiences in his travels to South America where he embraced the lifestyle wholeheartedly and therefore gave back by creating TOMS - shoes for Tomorrow. www.tomsSHOES.com

Airstream

The First Airstreams, known for their high-quality riveted aluminium shells and state-of-the-art interiors, were built in 1931 by Wally Byam. Airstream, a subsidiary of THOR Industries Inc. since 1980, is world-renowned for quality, innovation and design. An Airstream is more than just a trendy product; it’s a way of life embraced by thousands around the world for more than seven decades. Now celebrating its 75th anniversary, the company continues the legacy today with its world-class travel trailers, motorhomes, and services. For additional information about Airstream, please visit www.Airstream.com.

Posted by Frank at 2:14 PM

Scion Bests E-Tailers With Recognition Among Young Consumers

SCION, TOYOTA MOTOR SALES U.S.A.'S brand founded in 2003 to appeal to Generation Y consumers, has 80% name recognition among young buyers, according to Cisco's Internet Business Solutions Group (IBSG)'s second annual e-commerce survey, putting it ahead of other, well-established branded online retailers Sears, Target, Macys, Best Buy and Amazon.com.

Cisco's second annual e-commerce study ranks Scion above Amazon.com and Best Buy in building a top-branded customer experience for the under-35 online shopper.

Leading the survey at No. 1, despite not having even ranked last year, Scion's "spectacular success with their target market is the interactive and community-oriented nature of the Scion online experience," the survey finds. Key aspects of Scion's online strategy include:

* Clear customer focus: Scion customers are music fans, and Scion.com features a boom box where users can listen to "Scion" music while browsing the site. The site also promotes artists and lists concert information.
* Sophisticated customization tools: Users can build their own cars while on the site and save their choices at "My Scion."

Posted by Frank at 2:09 PM

Probing the Psychographic

J.D. POWER & ASSOCIATES IS adding chocolate to peanut butter in hopes of creating a perfect media research flavor. The company, which among other things studies the media behavior of a large pool of new-vehicle buyers, has inked a deal with consultancy Mediamark Research Inc. (MRI), which focuses on psychographic data. The J.D. Power and Associates-MRI products are designed to add psychographic data to data on new-vehicle buyers.

J.D. Power creates a profile of the media habits of vehicle buyers. The pool is so large that the consultancy can intuit the kinds of media a buyer of a certain vehicle type will consume. MRI's psychographic component of the study is gleaned from surveys on lifestyle and attitude. J.D. Power's "Car and Truck Report" provides magazine and cable network consumption patterns for recent new-vehicles buyers. The MRI Psychographic Supplement to the J.D. Power report will be available in May.

Gene Cameron, VP of media marketing for J.D. Power, says before now psychographics weren't part of magazine or TV audience studies of specific vehicles or vehicle segments. "We have been doing media studies for 17 years. It involves interviewing new-vehicle buyers and asking them what magazines they read and which cable networks they watch," he says.

Posted by Frank at 2:05 PM

Chevy Re-Ups With Tournament Fishing Organization

FLW OUTDOORS AND CHEVROLET ANNOUNCED yesterday a multi-year extension of their sponsorship agreement that upholds American-built Chevy as the official tow vehicle of the world's premier tournament-fishing organization. Chevy will retain its platinum sponsor status, participating in all 12 tournament trails.

The new agreement makes the newly released 2007 Chevy Silverado the official tow vehicle for sponsor boats at all Wal-Mart FLW Tour events as well as a variety of other tournaments. Chevy will be the title sponsor of the sixth qualifying event on the FLW Tour.

This year, the Chevy Open will be held on the Detroit River in Detroit July 12-15. Chevy will also hold title sponsorship of the BFL Wild Card and will be the presenting sponsor of the Wal-Mart BFL All-American. FLW Outdoors and Chevy will present "Chevy Pro Night" at local Chevy dealerships across the country where FLW Tour and Wal-Mart FLW Series BP Eastern Division events are held.

Posted by Frank at 2:02 PM

Chinese automakers are looking west

The Shanghai auto show kicked off this week with up-and-coming automakers showing off sedans, trucks and SUVs in the world’s fastest-growing automobile market. But as the global automotive industry looks east, China’s carmakers have their eyes fixed firmly west — on the U.S. market.

With names like Chery, Geely and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp., China’s small but ambitious automobile companies are not well known here in the United States but could one day become household names, just like Toyota, Honda and Nissan.

“[Chinese automakers] are all still establishing themselves in terms of products, quality and manufacturing — the very things that go into running a successful automotive company,” said Tim Dunne, director for Asia Pacific Market Intelligence at market research company J.D. Power and Associates. “But they all have exporting visions, and everyone wants to know when they’re coming to the United States.”

Posted by Frank at 1:59 PM

GM will ‘fight hard for every sale’

WASHINGTON - General Motors Corp. Chairman and Chief Executive Rick Wagoner vowed to “fight hard for every sale” after Toyota Motor Corp. said it sold more cars in a quarter than GM did for the first time ever.

Wagoner made the comment in an e-mail message to company officials only hours after the disclosure on Tuesday of Toyota’s first-quarter sales results.

He said he “didn’t welcome this morning’s news, and I know you didn’t either,” but said GM’s business strategies around the globe were working and would help the auto manufacturer succeed.

Posted by Frank at 1:57 PM

Ford exec says April sales ‘terrible’ all around

DETROIT - U.S. auto sales have dropped far below expectations for April, a Ford Motor Co. executive said on Friday, characterizing industry-wide results as “terrible” as rival General Motors Corp. rolled out an incentive program to boost crucial month-end deals.

“This month is terrible,” Ford chief sales analyst George Pipas said in describing the unexpectedly weak industry-wide performance. “We are not even close to where we expected to be in April.”

Pipas said industry sales volume appeared to be down 10 percent to date before seasonal adjustment but said he expected Ford’s U.S. retail share to hold steady at around 13 percent.

Posted by Frank at 1:56 PM

A Taxi Company With No Cabs

1-800-Cab-Ride.com

Hailing a cab works great in certain neighborhoods, but if you're off the beaten path there's not a lot of chances that a cabbie is going to randomly swing by for a pickup.

One man is betting that the Digg generation would be more inclined to use taxis if there was a convenient web interface. Jason Diaz’s 1-800-cab-ride.com (800-222-7433) plans to be the one-stop online shop for scheduling taxi cabs.

Essentially, 800cabride.com is a car service that doesn't own a single automobile - it uses a network of independent cab shops around the country to arrange rides from one central dispatch office.

It's a pretty simple setup. Just go to the website, choose pickup and drop off locations, and the service will have a ride dispatched.

Cab rides are billed at a flat rate that includes all applicable fees and tip, and payment is made on the website via credit card or corporate account. Airline pickups are "will call" when debarking so there's no chance of a delayed flight causing a missed ride.

If you don't call the 800 number to confirm arrival there's no charge to the credit card. It's nice that they've kept it flexible because traveling can sometimes turn into a nebulous form of performance art.

Posted by Frank at 1:54 PM

LeaseTrader - From Pain to Profit

When Sergio Stiberman wanted to get out of his car lease in 1998, he did what most people would do--he went to his dealership. But he wasn't entirely satisfied with what he found out. "It was going to cost me the same amount as all my remaining payments" to get out of the lease early, Stiberman says.

What Stiberman wanted was a way to end his car lease early without excessive fees and payments. As the former owner of a consumer electronics business, he was also looking for a new venture, and with his car problems came a business solution: Create an exchange program for consumers to trade car leases. "I realized there was a need from a consumer standpoint, and there was no one in the market doing it," he says.

Stiberman decided to launch a website that would allow lease buyers and sellers to connect quickly and easily. "You don't have to deal with a dealership, going from one loop to the other," he says of his company's services. "You pretty much dictate the terms you want on a contract."

He hired professional site developers to give LeaseTrader.com a unique look. Startup costs to launch the website were relatively high, so Stiberman used his own funds along with money he received from outside investors.

The site has thousands of listings nationwide. Potential buyers can log on and sign up to view the available listings for free. After checking with their leasing companies, which make the decision on whether to allow trades, sellers can choose from different listing packages ranging in price from $39.95 to $189.95 and begin by entering their vehicle and lease information. LeaseTrader.com will even run credit verification for buyers to ensure a viable sale.

With 2006 sales at $3.7 million, Stiberman projects 2007 sales will grow to $8 million.

Posted by Frank at 1:52 PM

Steve McQueen’s ’63 Ferrari heading to auction

NEW YORK - A 1963 Ferrari once owned and driven by the late film star Steve McQueen is expected to fetch between $800,000 and $1.2 million at an auction in August, Christie’s said.

Christie’s unveiled the car on Friday: a Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso with a medium-brown metallic paint and beige leather interior.

McQueen, nicknamed “The King of Cool” for his portrayals of nonchalant, in-control heroes in such films as “The Great Escape,” about a mass escape from a World War II POW camp, was a car collector. He special ordered the car in 1963 and owned it for about 10 years, according to Christie’s.

Posted by Frank at 11:58 AM

Mitsubishi Releases Exterior Shots of Lancer Evolution

Cypress, California -- Mitsubishi Motors in Japan revealed an exterior image of the production version of the Lancer Evolution high performance sedan.

The image, released in conjunction with a financial results announcement, reveals the subtle exterior details of the forthcoming production model, whose styling direction was first suggested with Concept X (2005 Tokyo Motor Show) and later reinforced with Prototype X (2007 NAIAS).

The soon-to-market Lancer Evolution represents the zenith of the Lancer badge's performance development; a rally racing story that began over 30 years ago in the deserts of the Safari Rally, later saw dominance on the WRC stage in the 1990's, and now combines the lessons from competition with high technology to bring an enthusiasts' hero to the streets.

The development concept for the all-new Lancer Evolution¹ specifies a "next-generation high-performance 4WD global sedan that allows all levels of driver to enjoy the car's speed and handling with ease and in safety". The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC² traction and handling system.

This advanced all-wheel-drive system integrates a superior level of drive torque distribution and braking management, making this the best handling Lancer Evolution vehicle of the series. This technology when mated to the new, more rigid Lancer platform results in a Lancer Evolution that is highly responsive, offering intuitive handling and a greater degree of control in addition to outstanding vehicle attitude stability.

Other examples of Mitsubishi Motors' latest automotive technology to be featured in the new model include a new lightweight, high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged MIVEC3 engine with aluminum cylinder block and a 6-speed automated manual transmission that contributes to vehicle's exceptional performance while offering improved fuel economy.

Posted by Frank at 8:02 AM

Mitsubishi Motors Announces FY2006 Results and FY2007 Forecasts

Tokyo -- Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today announced its full-year results for the year ending March 31, 2007, together with forecasts for the year ending March 31, 2008.

Fiscal 2006 full-year results

1.Fiscal 2006 overview

Mitsubishi Motors' consolidated sales for fiscal 2006 totaled 2 trillion, 202.9 billion yen: an increase of 82.8 billion yen over the previous fiscal year. Favorable yen exchange rates and a more profitable model mix more than offset decreases in retail sales volume and in the OEM supply volume resulting from the ending of the production of the smart forfour.

Mitsubishi Motors posted an operating profit of 40.2 billion yen, an improvement of 33.4 billion yen over the previous fiscal year. This significant improvement in operating profit stems from the aforementioned favorable exchange rate, a more profitable model mix and from improved profitability of financial service operations in the United States and reductions in costs; all of which more than offset the impact of increased sales costs in North America and a rise in raw material costs.

Mitsubishi Motors posted an ordinary profit of 18.5 billion yen, a year-on-year gain of 36.3 billion yen that stemmed partly from an improvement in net interest income. The company reported a net income of 8.7 billion yen, an improvement of 100.9 billion yen. Factors contributing to this improvement in the net position include the non-recurrence of asset impairment accounting charges in Japan and of restructuring charges booked last year, as well as extraordinary earnings stemming from the dissolution of special purpose entities.

Fiscal 2006 marks the first time Mitsubishi Motors has moved into the black at all levels (operating, ordinary and net profits) for the full financial year since fiscal 2002.

2.Sales volume

Global retail sales of vehicles in fiscal 2006 totaled 1,232,000 vehicles, a decrease of 112,000 (8.3%) compared to the 1,344,000 sold in fiscal 2005.

In Japan, MMC sold 247,000 vehicles, a year-on-year decrease of 3.9% or 10,000 units, slightly better than the domestic market (4.3% fall year-on-year), which was impacted by sluggish sales of registered vehicles (i.e., cars other than minicars). The introduction of the new Pajero and Delica D:5 models in the second half of the year contributed to Mitsubishi Motors' better-than-market performance.

In North America, the company sold 164,000 vehicles, a 5.1% increase of 8,000 over last year. This was helped by the first yearly increase in sales recorded in the U.S. market since fiscal 2001 and stemmed principally from the introduction of new models - the Eclipse Spyder in April and the Outlander SUV in November last year - and from the implementation of more sales-boosting initiatives more closely tailored to individual regions.

In Europe, Mitsubishi Motors sold 282,000 vehicles, a 5.6% increase of 15,000 units driven by continuing robust sales in Russia and by a doubling of sales in the Ukraine.

In Asia and other regions, Mitsubishi Motors sold 539,000 vehicles, an 18.8% decline or 125,000 fewer than the previous year. Firm sales in Latin America, the Middle East and Africa were more than offset by lower shipments of parts for use in local production in Taiwan, China and the ASEAN countries.

Forecasts for fiscal 2007

1.Overview

In fiscal 2007 Mitsubishi Motors will aim to boost global sales volume by 7.4% or 91,000 units over fiscal 2006 to 1,323,000 on the back on the extensive introduction of two global strategic models that use the company's next-generation platform: the Outlander and the new Lancer (GALANT FORTIS in Japan). The Outlander was introduced first in Japan in 2005, and has since been phased into other global markets during fiscal 2006. It has been well-received in all markets. The new Lancer, given its global launch in North America this March is to be phased into Europe, Japan and other regions in the near future.

Regional sales forecasts are as follows. Japan: 250,000 vehicles, a 1.2% increase of 3,000 over the previous year; North America: 176,000 vehicles, a 7.3% increase of 12,000; Europe: 316,000 vehicles, a 12.1% increase of 34,000; Asia and other regions: 581,000 vehicles, a 7.8% increase of 42,000.

On the back of the increases in sales volume given above, and of OEM supplies to auto manufacturers in Japan and overseas, Mitsubishi Motors forecasts net sales of 2 trillion, 430 billion yen, a 10.3% increase of 227.1 billion yen over fiscal 2006.

Despite forseeing falling profits at the U.S. financial service operations and increased selling expenses, the company predicts a 51 billion yen operating profit, an increase of 26.9% or 10.8 billion yen, due to increased sales from new model introductions and OEM agreements.

Mitsubishi Motors forecasts an ordinary profit of 30 billion yen, a year-on-year increase of 62.2% or 11.5 billion yen, and a full-year net profit of 20 billion yen, a 2.3-fold increase over fiscal 2006.

2.Operational measures by region

(1) Japan

* Introduce fully redesigned GALANT FORTIS and LANCER EVOLUTION X* models and
additions to the Delica D:5 lineup.
* Establish Delica D:5, Pajero and Outlander SUV models as long-sellers.
* Strengthen after-sales operations.
* Accelerate restructuring of sales networks (integrating and merging 29 consolidated
sales companies into five companies covering extended territories, plus consolidating
parts dealers.)

*Japan-market names for Lancer and Lancer Evolution are GALANT FORTIS and
LANCER EVOLUTION X, respectively

(2) North America

* Strengthen Mitsubishi Motors brand with introduction of Lancer Evolution.
* Increase sales with the introduction of new Outlander and Lancer models.
* Focus advertising on best-selling models and main regional markets.
* Continue implementing dealer support measures to promote vitalization of dealer
network.
* Improve productivity and profitability at the company's U.S. production facility.

(3) Europe

* Beef up and strengthen sales of SUV lineup (Outlander, Pajero, L200).
* Expand sales with introduction of new Lancer.
* Further expand sales in growing markets such as Russia and the Ukraine by bringing
marketing under direct control of MMC head office.
* Start supplies of all-new SUV model to PSA Peugeot Citroen.

(4) Asia and other regions

* China: Strengthen built-up import car operations through addition of new models and
establishment of a new sales company. Work with South East (Fujian) Motor Co., Ltd. to
upgrade Mitsubishi brand sales network.
* Thailand: Maintain and expand pickup model production operations.
* Latin America, Middle East and Africa: Boost sales further through introduction of new
models (Pajero, Lancer and Outlander).
* Australia: Strengthen sales of models introduced in 2006 (Triton, Pajero and Outlander)
and introduce Lancer to strengthen built-up import sales.

3.Mid-term business plan

Fiscal 2007 marks the final year of the Mitsubishi Motors Revitalization Plan introduced in fiscal
2005 and under which the company has been working to reestablish itself. During the current
fiscal year Mitsubishi Motors plans to announce a new mid-term business plan based on the
company's performance in fiscal 2007, the principal thrust of which will be the creation of an
infrastructure that will underpin sustainable future growth.

Posted by Frank at 7:57 AM

Mazda reports 2006 fiscal year results

- Record profits achieved in final year of Mazda Momentum Plan -

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today reported its financial results for fiscal year (FY) 2006 and provided its forecast for FY2007.

FY2006 Consolidated Full Year Highlights:

* Consolidated sales revenue increases by 11 percent to a record 3,247.5 billion yen
* Consolidated operating profit up 28 percent to a record 158.5 billion yen
* Consolidated net income increases 11 percent to a best-ever 73.7 billion yen
* Six yen dividend per share declared; an increase of 1 yen

FY2007 Projections Highlights:

* Consolidated sales to increase by 2 percent to 3,320.0 billion yen
* Operating profit forecast to increase by 1 percent to 160 billion yen
* Net income expected to rise by 15 percent to 85 billion yen
* Global retail volume to reach 1.35 million units, a 4 percent increase
* Mazda to resume interim dividends after a 15-year moratorium

In the final year of the Mazda Momentum plan, Mazda’s FY2006 operating profit was a record 158.5 billion yen, exceeding FY2005 results by 28 percent. Consolidated revenue increased by 11 percent year-on-year to an all-time high of 3,247.5 billion yen, the first time it has surpassed the 3 trillion yen level. Net income once again achieved a best-ever record, up 11 percent to 73.7 billion yen, and global retail volume rose by 2 percent year-over-year to reach 1,302,000 units.

For FY2007, Mazda projects its operating profit to be 160.0 billion yen, up 1 percent. The full fiscal year 2007 outlook for net income is 85.0 billion yen, a 15 percent year-on-year increase. As product-driven growth for the company continues, Mazda is projecting a global retail sales increase of 4 percent in FY2007 to 1.35 million units. In addition, Mazda plans to resume interim dividends to shareholders for the first time in 15 years.

Mazda President and CEO Hisakazu Imaki said, “This was the final year of the Mazda Momentum plan and we are very pleased that our business performance in FY2006 once again resulted in all-time record results in all profit levels. FY2007 is the first year for our new Mazda Advancement Plan, and we will be aggressively increasing capital investment and R&D expenditures for product development of our core models and to strengthen our next-generation technologies.

Going forward, we will execute this new mid-term plan with total dedication.”

Financial results for FY2006
Global retail volumes were 1,302,000 units in FY2006, an increase of 2 percent over FY2005. This reflects the added sales from the launch of new crossover SUVs in North America and vehicles powered by new diesel engines in Europe. Consolidated revenues in FY2006 were 3,247.5 billion yen, a year-over-year increase of 327.7 billion yen, or an 11 percent increase. Operating profit was up by 35.1 billion yen, a 28 percent increase over the same period last year, to reach 158.5 billion yen. This reflects an improved model mix in North America due to the introduction of the CX-7 and CX-9 models, favorable effects of a weaker yen and net cost reductions which offset the impact of higher raw materials costs.

Ordinary profit was 127.8 billion yen, a rise of 26 percent, or a 26.3 billion yen increase over the figure from the last fiscal year. At 73.7 billion yen, net income was up 7 billion yen from year-ago levels, a climb of 11 percent. However, net income would have increased by 26 percent over the prior year - excluding the one-time impact of an extraordinary gain from the transfer of a substitutional portion of employee pension fund liabilities to the government and impact of asset-impairment losses in FY2005. In addition, cash flow in FY2006 was 21.0 billion yen, consisting of an operating cash flow of 116.4 billion yen, less investments of 95.4 billion yen. Net debt, at 232.2 billion yen, was down 14.6 billion from the end of the prior fiscal year, resulting in a net debt-to-equity ratio of 49 percent in FY2006, a 13 point improvement over the prior year and under the 50 percent target figure.

Financial Projections for FY2007
Mazda projects a global retail volume of 1.35 million units in FY2007, a 4 percent increase over FY2006. With the planned introduction of the all-new Mazda2 (known as Demio in Japan) in FY2007 together with full-year contributions from the CX-7 and CX-9 models, sales increases are forecast in North America, Europe and other global markets as Mazda aims at sustained product-led growth in the future. Consolidated revenue is projected to increase by 2 percent to 3,320.0 billion yen, a rise of 72.5 billion yen over FY2006 levels. With improved volume and model mixes and aggressive forward-looking investment, Mazda projects operating profit to grow by 1 percent, an year-on-year increase of 1.5 billion yen, and to reach 160.0 billion in FY2007. The outlook for ordinary profit is 140.0 billion yen, an increase of 12.2 billion yen, or 10 percent, from prior-year levels. Mazda is forecasting net income to be up by 11.3 billion yen (or 15 percent) to reach 85 billion yen.

Posted by Frank at 7:55 AM

Nissan Announces Financial Results for Fiscal Year 2006

Nissan Net Income at 460.8 Billion Yen for FY2006

TOKYO – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced financial results for the fiscal year 2006, ending March 31, 2007 and filed the following results with the Tokyo Stock Exchange:

· Net revenues of 10.4686 trillion yen (US $89.48 billion, euro 70.73 billion)
· Operating profit of 776.9 billion yen (US $6.64 billion, euro 5.25 billion)
· Ordinary profit of 761.1 billion yen (US $6.51 billion, euro 5.14 billion)
· Consolidated net income of 460.8 billion yen (US $3.94 billion, euro 3.11 billion).
· The operating profit margin came to 7.4%.

As previously announced, in order to increase transparency and consistency, Nissan is harmonizing calendar-year results for overseas subsidiaries such as Europe and Mexico with fiscal-year results for Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

With the exception of China and Taiwan where fiscal-period accounting is precluded by law, all overseas subsidiaries that previously ended their annual periods in December have been harmonized to align with the consolidated fiscal period ending in March.

This was done by including an additional quarter of results from January to March for those subsidiaries previously consolidated on a calendar-year basis. Adding this fifth quarter results in a one-time positive impact to fiscal 2006 results of 767.6 billion yen (US $6.56 billion, euro 5.19 billion) in revenues, 21.4 billion yen (US $0.18 billion, euro 0.14 billion) in operating profits and 11.6 billion yen (US $0.10 billion, euro 0.08 billion) to the bottom line net income.

On comparable 12 month periods, Nissan’s global sales were 3,483,000 units, down 2.4%. In the US, sales were at 1,035,000 units, down 4.0%. In Japan, sales were at 740,000 units, down 12.1%. In Europe, sales came to 540,000 units, down by 0.2%. Sales in General Overseas Markets were 1,168,000 units, an increase of 5.1%.

The company’s net automotive cash position stood at 254.7 billion yen (US $2.18 billion, euro 1.72 billion) at the end of fiscal 2006. Nissan will propose a 17-yen-per-share year-end dividend at the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting this June, for a full-year dividend of 34 yen per share for fiscal 2006, as committed.

Nissan Value-Up
“2006 did not boost our results towards achieving the objectives of Nissan Value-Up,” said Nissan President and CEO, Carlos Ghosn. “However, we believe that the commitments are within the potential of the company and we remain focused to deliver them completely. Accordingly, we have decided to extend the period for delivering all the Nissan Value-Up commitments by one year.”

Ghosn noted that tangible progress had been made on the four key breakthroughs in Nissan Value-Up. The Infiniti luxury brand continues to expand globally with its introduction to Russia in 2006, into China and Ukraine in 2007 and across Western Europe during 2008.

Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales globally have grown by 57% to 490,000 units compared to the start of Nissan Value-Up. The LCV business now generates a consolidated operating profit margin of over 8%.

Nissan continues to enhance its overall cost competitiveness. 15% of global sourcing is made in Leading Competitive Countries (LCC) such as China, ASEAN, Mexico, and Eastern Europe, versus 12% last year.

Finally, our geographic expansion has been accelerated by additional investments in Brazil and China, a new plant being established in Russia, and a new partnership with Renault and Mahindra to build a manufacturing facility in India.

2007 outlook
Commenting on the outlook for this fiscal year, Ghosn said fiscal 2007 will be a better year for Nissan than 2006. Rising raw material costs, rising energy prices, rising interest rates, volatile foreign exchange rates, high level of incentives, and a growing number of distressed suppliers and competitors, would remain among the business risks for 2007.

Nissan continues to invest massively for its future within a clearly established long-term strategy, especially in the research and development of breakthrough technologies and innovative products. In 2007, Nissan will launch 11 all-new products globally: Livina, X-TRAIL, Altima coupe, single and double-cab Atlas truck, entry-level sedan for Mexico, Infiniti G37 coupe, Rogue, GT-R, Infiniti EX luxury crossover, Murano and a single-cab version of the Frontier-Navara pickup truck.

Based on the company’s outlook and assuming foreign exchange rates of 117 yen/dollar and 148 yen/euro - which is at the same level as fiscal 2006 - Nissan filed the following forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2008, with the Tokyo Stock Exchange:

· Consolidated net revenues of 10.3000 trillion yen (US $88.03 billion, euro 69.59 billion)
· Operating profit of 800 billion yen (US $6.84 billion, euro 5.41 billion)
· Ordinary profit of 773 billion yen (US $6.61 billion, euro 5.22 billion)
· Net income of 480 billion yen (US $4.10 billion, euro 3.24 billion)

Note: Amounts in dollars and euros are translated for the convenience of the reader at the foreign exchange rates of 117 yen/dollar and 148 yen/euro, the average rates for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2007.

APPENDIX

For the convenience of readers who wish to make a direct comparison between fourth quarter 2006 and the same period in 2005, excluding the impact of the accounting change, the totals are as follows:

· Consolidated net revenues of 2.8238 trillion yen (US $24.14 billion, euro 19.08 billion), up 7.1% compared to 2.6360 trillion yen (US $22.53 billion, euro 17.81 billion) the previous year

· Operating profit of 223.8 billion yen (US $1.91 billion, euro 1.51 billion) down 7.0% compared to 240.6 billion yen (US $2.06 billion, euro 1.63 billion) from FY2005

· Ordinary profit of 204.6 billion yen (US $1.75 billion, euro 1.38 billion) down 14.9% compared to 240.4 billion yen (US $2.05 billion, euro 1.62 billion) from FY2005

· Net income of 70.6 billion yen (US $0.60 billion, euro 0.48 billion) down 53.7% compared to 152.4 billion yen (US $1.3 billion, euro 1.03 billion) from FY2005. Net income was lower compared to last year due to -- by order of decreasing magnitude -- provisions taken for the one-time charge for headcount reductions in the U.S. and Japan, lower profit contribution from equity method companies, and higher taxes.

Posted by Frank at 7:53 AM

Indiana Hyundai Dealer Hosts Official Casting Calls for 'Deal Or No Deal'

Bob Rohrman's Indy Hyundai in Indianapolis will host official Eastern region open casting calls for NBC hit, "Deal or No Deal."

For more than 30 years, the Bob Rohrman Auto Group has been providing Indianapolis-area residents with exceptional customer service and impeccable quality. The dealership will host thousands of eager Indianapolis residents hoping for a chance to win $1 million on the wildly popular game show.

Bring your personality and comfortable shoes for a chance at stardom and a test drive of Hyundai's impressive new model line-up, including the Accent, Elantra, Sonata and Santa Fe.

To fill out an application form in advance, please download this PDF.

WHEN: Tuesday, May 1, 2007 from 1 - 5 p.m.

WHERE: Bob Rohrman's Indy Hyundai, 7101 E. Washington St., Indianapolis
Phone: 317.613.7000

Posted by Frank at 7:40 AM

April 27, 2007

2008 Corvette Gets More Powerful 6.2L V-8 And Host Of Refinements

Get comfortable. There’s so much new and exciting with the 2008 Corvette that you’ll want to grab a hot drink, sidle up to your computer screen and absorb all the details.

The changes involve everything from an all-new, larger and more powerful V-8 engine to refinements in driving characteristics that solidify the Corvette’s position as the preeminent American sports car – and further the argument that it is one of the world’s best. There are also a host of exterior and interior refinements that raise the Corvette’s luxury status and enhance the feeling of craftsmanship.

“Corvette is an uncompromising sports car that rewards its owners with impeccable performance and great comfort,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “The changes and enhancements to the 2008 Corvette reflect continual improvements that speak to Chevrolet’s unflagging commitment to building the best sports car – and with nearly 55 years of experience, the Corvette just keeps getting better and better.”

Also back again for ’08 is the 505-horsepower Corvette Z06, an American super car that has won over enthusiasts, journalists and racers around the world for its balance of racetrack-bred performance, daily-driving civility and value.

Here’s a look at the new and enhanced features for ’08 Corvette models:

Engine – A new, 6.2L LS3 small-block V-8 is the standard engine in Coupe and Convertible models. It is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW)* and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (586 Nm)* with the standard exhaust system; with the new, optional two-mode exhaust system, power ratings increase to 436 horses / 325 kW and 428 lb.-ft. / 592 Nm. As a result, the standard Corvette is true supercar, capable of 190 mph. The LS3 with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic is the fastest automatic-equipped Corvette ever, with 0-60 mph capability of 4.3 seconds.

This new iteration of the storied small-block family features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block – 4.06-inch / 103.25 mm vs. the previous 6.0L’s 4.00-inch / 101.62 mm bores – high-flow, LS7/L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; revised camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; high-flow fuel injectors from the Z06’s LS7 engine; and a new engine beauty cover.

The LS3 features an aluminum cylinder block with cast iron cylinder liners. In addition to its larger bores, which help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement, the block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads that enhance its strength and improved bay to bay breathing. But while the bore of the 6.2L engine is increased when compared with the previous 6.0L engine, the engine’s stroke remains at 3.62 inches (92 mm). The pistons for the larger 6.2L engine also are new and are designed for its high-rpm performance capability.

Breathing for the new 6.2L engine is accomplished via new, high-flow cylinder heads. They’re based on the large port/large valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L92 engines, with larger-capacity, straighter intake ports. The design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber and the exhaust ports are also designed for better flow.

Complementing the larger-port design of the heads are commensurately sized valves. The intake valve size alone increases from 2.00 inches (50.8 mm) to 2.16 inches (55 mm) – an increase of nearly 9 percent. The intake valves feature lightweight hollow stems, which enable the engine’s 6,600-rpm capability. The exhaust valves also are large, measuring 1.60 inches (40.4 mm) in diameter.

To accommodate the engine’s large valves and enable more direct intake port flow, the intake-side rocker arms are offset 6 mm between the valve tip and the push rod. Actuating the valves is a new camshaft, with intake-side lobes providing more than a 5-percent percent in increase in lift, from 0.521-inch to 0.551-inch (13.25 mm to 14 mm). Exhaust-valve lift remains unchanged from the LS2. The camshaft timing was revised to optimize performance with the higher-lift intake cam profile.

Ensuring the cylinder heads receive all the air they can handles falls to a new, acoustically tuned intake manifold. The composite design is manufactured with a “lost core” process that improves runner to runner variation and reduces airflow losses. An acoustic foam material is used to reduce radiated engine noise; it is sandwiched between the outer top of the manifold and an additional “skull cap” acoustic shell. Also new beauty covers atop the engine shield the rocker covers and also feature a noise-reducing, acoustically tuned insert to provide a more refined engine sound.

Exhaust system – Optional on ’08 Coupe and Convertible models is a new, two-mode performance exhaust system. Similar in design and function to the system used on the Z06, the dual-mode exhaust uses vacuum-actuated outlet valves, which control engine noise during low-load operation, but open for maximum performance during high-load operation. It is not identical to the Z06 system; the Coupe/Convertible uses a 2.5-inch-diameter exhaust, while the Z06 uses a three-inch system.

With the new, dual-mode performance exhaust, power output for Coupe/Convertible rises from 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm) to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm). This system gives the Corvette a more aggressive exhaust sound character that will appeal to performance enthusiasts.

Transmissions and axle ratios – The shifting efforts for both the six-speed manual transmission and paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmissions have been improved in ’08 Corvette models. The manual transmission shifting improvements include a more positive and direct feel during gear changes, with better gate-to-gate location.

The six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission on Coupe and Convertible is improved with new hardware and a new controller calibration that deliver quicker shifts. This change bolsters the feeling of performance and driver control when using the shifting paddles.

Also new for ’08 models is the availability of the 2.73 performance axle ratio with the automatic transmission. It is included with the Z51 package.

Steering system – The Corvette’s precise rack-and-pinion steering system is revised to provide improved feel at all speeds. The revisions are due to a new, premium machining process of the system’s internal components, a new, stiffer intermediate shaft and controller calibration changes.

Wheels – Corvette Coupe and Convertible models come with a new split-spoke wheel design for ’08. The design was introduced on the limited-edition ’07 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car replicas with a Sterling Silver finish. The standard 18-inch front wheels and 19-inch rear wheels feature a Sparkle Silver finish, with a Competition Gray version optional.

Also new is a distinctive, performance-oriented forged aluminum wheel for Coupe and Convertible. It comes in a polished finish.

Exterior colors – There are two new premium exterior colors available with 2008 Corvette models: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat; they replace Le Mans Blue Metallic and Monterey Red Metallic Tintcoat.

Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package – Available on Coupe, Convertible and Z06 models, the new Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package offers a stylish, two-tone leather-appointed cabin with details that enhance the feeling of Corvette’s craftsmanship. Details include:

* Two-tone, leather-wrapped upper and lower instrument panel, door pads and seats
* Choice of new, exclusive colors: Linen or Sienna, with unique color breakup
* Padded door panel armrests
* “Corvette” embroidered on passenger-side dash pad
* Embroidered crossed flags logo on headrests
* Unique center trim plate with Bias pattern.

Interior enhancements – All models feature a new wrapped instrument panel center trim plate, with bright surrounds for the shifter and cupholder. There are also new metal-finish door sill plates that greet passengers as they step into the vehicle, as well as a new lighted control knob for the available Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

Feature changes and enhancements – All Corvette models now come standard with features that were previously optional or part of equipment packages. They include:

* OnStar with available Turn-By-Turn Navigation
* XM Satellite Radio
* Auto-dimming rearview mirrors (with compass)
* Audio input jack on all radio systems except navigation; Personal Audio Link is available as a dealer-installed item with the navigation system.

The ’08 Corvettes also come with a new Keyless Access fob, which features the key and remote-function controls integrated in a single unit.

Corvette design and interior details
Dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combine with the grille to create a strong visual identity for the Corvette, while the tapered rear deck and fascia improve high-speed performance. The lean rear design sports round taillamps and center-exit exhaust. The fixed Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provide superior lighting performance. With a 0.286 coefficient of drag, the Coupe models are the most aerodynamic Corvettes ever.

The 2008 Corvette Convertible features a power-operated soft top with the 3LT package; an easy-to-operate manual top is standard. Both configurations use a five-layer fabric that conceals the underlying structure for a good top-up appearance, plus it helps preserve the car’s excellent aerodynamics and reduces road noise.

Corvette’s interior is inspired by the car’s dual-cockpit heritage. High-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality help deliver premium quality meant to enhance performance driving. The instrument panel and doors are covered with cast-skin foam-in-place trim that looks like a leather-wrapped, padded panel. It is warm and inviting and has double the life of conventional trim materials.

An AM/FM/XM radio with CD player and audio input jack is standard. An optional Bose audio system with an in-dash six-disc changer adds to the choices available to the audiophile owner. Steering-wheel mounted audio controls – introduced in ’07 – are included with the Bose premium system.

A full-function OnStar system is standard and an onboard navigation system with voice recognition is available. Using a 6.5-inch (165 mm) color touch-screen display, the DVD-based system contains all the map data for the 48 contiguous states and most of Canada on one disc.

Driving dynamics

Corvette Coupe and Convertible have a hydroformed steel rail backbone structure, which features cored composite floors, an enclosed center tunnel, rear-mounted transmission and aluminum cockpit structure. Suspension cradles, control arms, knuckles, springs, dampers, bushings, stabilizer bars and steering gear have all been redesigned. New Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT) take advantage of the latest sidewall design and compound technology for run-flat capabilities.

Three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style. The standard suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and precise handling. Corvette is now more poised at even higher handling levels, yet easier to drive.

The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magneto-rheological dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control. Cross-dilled brake rotors are included when this feature is selected, allowing customers to combine the larger brakes from the Z51 performance package with the comfort of Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

The Z51 Performance Package brings Coupe and Convertible performance very close to the widely admired previous generation Z06. The Z51 offers more aggressive dampers and springs, larger stabilizer bars, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar EMT tires, enhanced cooling and larger cross-drilled brake rotors (13.4 inches / 340 mm in front and 13 inches / 330 mm in rear) for optimum track performance while still providing a comfortable ride.

With each suspension, three standard dynamic chassis control systems – anti-lock braking, traction control and Active Handling – operate in concert. In all, the dynamic chassis control systems are smarter, less intrusive and more adept at making the total driving experience precisely what drivers have come to expect from their Corvette.
Corvette Z06 details

As the fastest, most powerful and most technologically advanced production model in Corvette’s history, t he Corvette Z06 offers an unprecedented level of capability and technology, making it one of the best performance values on the market.

Design – The Z06 has an unmistakable and aggressive appearance, with design cues that include:

* A wide front fascia with a large, forward-facing grille opening, a splitter along the bottom and wheel opening extensions along the sides to provide aerodynamic downforce
* A cold air scoop in front of the hood that integrates an air inlet system for the engine
* The trailing edge of the front wheel opening is radiused to achieve improved drag, but protects the body finish with a tough molding, and a large air extractor is located behind the wheel
* A fixed-roof body style optimizes body rigidity and mass
* Wider rear fenders with flares cover the massive rear tires and a brake cooling scoop in front of the wheels visually balances the fender extractor
* A tall rear spoiler houses the CHMSL on the top of the rear fascia
* 10-spoke wheels (18-inch, front; 19-inch, rear)
* Four large stainless steel exhaust outlets
* Z06 badging on the carbon fiber front fenders

The aerodynamics of the Z06’s exterior were shaped by the experiences of the Corvette racing program, where high-speed stability and cornering capability are paramount. And while the race cars use large rear wings, the Z06’s elevated spoiler provides sufficient downforce to balance the road-worthy front splitter without adversely affecting aerodynamic drag. The Z06’s Cd is 0.34.

For all its race-inspired functionality, the Z06 is designed to be a daily-driveable high-performance vehicle. To that end, comfort and convenience are held to a very high standard. High-Intensity Discharge lighting, fog lamps, leather seating, dual-zone air conditioning, cabin air filtration and head-up display (HUD) with track mode and g-meter are standard.

The Z06 gauge cluster displays the Z06 logo on the 7000-redline tachometer and has a readout on the oil pressure gauge to reflect the higher standard pressure of the dry-sump oiling system. The seats feature two-tone leather surfaces, with Z06-logo embroidery and contrasting stitching.

Z06 options include a Bose audio system with an in-dash six-CD changer, polished, Competition Gray or chrome wheels, a telescoping steering wheel, heated seats, side-impact air bags, a navigation system with GPS and universal home remote.

LS7 engine – The Z06’s LS7 7.0L engine delivers 505 horsepower (377 kW) in a 3,132-pound (1,421 kg) package – a combination that delivers 0-60 performance of 3.7 seconds in first gear, quarter-mile times of 11.7 seconds at 125 mph and a top speed of 198 mph (as recorded on Germany’s Autobahn). It also provides maximum lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and 60-0 braking in 111.3 feet; it also circuited Germany ’s famed N ü rburgring in a time of 7:43 .

The LS7 reintroduced the 427-cubic-inch engine to the Corvette lineup. It is easily identified under the hood by red engine covers with black lettering. The LS7 shares the same basic Gen IV V-8 architecture as the Corvette’s 6.0-liter LS2, but it uses a different cylinder block casting with pressed-in steel cylinder liners to accommodate the engine’s larger diameter, 4.125-inch (104.8 mm) cylinder bores.

Internally, the LS7’s reciprocating components make use of racing-derived lightweight technology, including titanium connecting rods and intake valves, to help boost horsepower and rpm capability. The rpm fuel shut-off limit is 7,100 rpm. The LS7’s details include:

* Dry-sump oiling system
* Unique cylinder block casting with large, 104.8-mm bores and pressed-in cylinder liners
* Forged steel main bearing caps
* Forged steel crankshaft
* Titanium connecting rods with 101.6-mm stroke
* Cast aluminum flat-top pistons
* 11.0:1 compression
* High-lift camshaft
* Racing-derived CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads with titanium intake valves and sodium-filled exhaust valves
* Low-restriction air intake system
* Hydroformed exhaust headers with unique “quad flow” collector flanges.

One of the clearest examples of the LS7’s race-bred technology is its use of titanium connecting rods. They weigh just 464 grams apiece and besides being lightweight, which enhances high-rpm performance and rpm range, titanium makes the rods extremely durable.

The LS7’s CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads are designed to meet the high airflow demands of the engine’s 7.0-liter displacement. A hydraulic roller camshaft with 0.588/0.593-inch valve lift is used to allow plenty of air to circulate in and out of the engine. To ensure optimal, uninterrupted airflow, the LS7’s heads have straight, tunnel-like intake runners. Very large by production-vehicle standards – even racing standards – they are designed to maintain fast airflow velocity, providing excellent torque at low rpm and exhilarating horsepower at high rpm. The heads feature 70-cc combustion chambers that are fed by huge, 56-mm-diameter titanium intake valves. They are complemented by 41-mm sodium-filled exhaust valves.

To accommodate the large valve face diameters, the heads’ valve seats are siamesed; and, taken from experience with the engines of C6.R racecars, the LS7’s valve angles are held at 12 degrees – vs. 15 degrees for the LS2 – to enhance airflow through the ports.

The LS7 has a dry-sump oiling system designed to keep the engine fully lubricated during the high cornering loads the Corvette Z06 is capable of producing. An engine compartment-mounted 8-quart reservoir delivers oil at a constant pressure to a conventional-style oil pump pick-up at the bottom of the engine. The pressurized oil feed keeps the oil pick-up continually immersed in oil at cornering loads exceeding 1 g.

Oil circulates through the engine and down to the oil pan, where it is sent back to the reservoir via a scavenge pump. The large-capacity reservoir, combined with a high efficiency air-to-oil cooler, provides necessary engine oil cooling under the demands of the engine’s power output. With the dry-sump system, oil is added to the engine via the reservoir tank – which includes the oil level dipstick.

Drivetrain – The Corvette Z06’s powertrain and drivetrain systems are matched to the LS7’s performance capability. The light, four-into-one headers discharge into close-coupled catalytic converters and through two-mode mufflers. The mufflers each feature a vacuum-actuated outlet valve, which controls exhaust noise during low-load operation but opens for maximum power.

At the rear of the LS7 engine, a single-mass flywheel and lightweight, high-capacity clutch channel torque to the rear transaxle. The six-speed manual transmission has been strengthened to handle the LS7’s increased torque load. The transmission includes a pump that sends transmission fluid to the front radiator for cooling. Upon its return, the fluid removes additional heat from the differential lube before returning to the transmission. The six-speed transmission connects to a limited-slip differential, with enlarged ring and pinion gears. Stronger axle half-shafts with tougher universal joints transmit power to the rear wheels.

Structure – The Z06 has a unique aluminum body structure for optimum stiffness and light weight for the fixed-roof bodystyle. Perimeter rails are one-piece hydroformed aluminum members featuring cast suspension nodes, which replace many welded steel components on other Corvette models. Other castings, stampings and extrusions are combined into the innovative structure with state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies.

Advanced structural composites featuring carbon fiber are bonded to the aluminum structure. The wider front wheelhouses, for example, are carbon composites and the passenger compartment floors combine carbon-fiber skins with an ultra-lightweight balsa wood core.

The Z06 has a new magnesium cradle that serves as the attachment point for the engine and some front suspension components. Magnesium is lighter than aluminum yet incredibly strong. The magnesium cradle helps improve the front-to-rear weight distribution, as do carbon-fiber front fenders and wheelhouses. Engineers also moved the battery from underhood to a position in the rear cargo area, behind one of the rear wheels.

The mass reductions are offset by some added performance enablers, including dry-sump lubrication, exhaust system with outlet valves, larger wheels and tires, larger brakes and larger roll stabilizers.

Suspension and brakes – The Z06 retains the 105.7-inch (2686-mm) wheelbase of other Corvette models, as well as the short-long arm suspension and transverse leaf spring design, but it rides on all-new wheels, tires, brakes, as well as its own rear spring and roll stabilizer.

The firmer suspension works harmoniously with large 18 x 9.5-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels and 275/35ZR18 tires in the front, and 19 x 12-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels with 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear – the largest wheel-and-tire combination ever offered on a Corvette. The tires use the latest extended-mobility technology from Goodyear to provide a satisfactory ride, but still allow the vehicle to achieve lateral acceleration of more than 1 g. The extended-mobility tires eliminate the need – and weight – for a spare tire and jack or inflator kit, while also reducing the chance of a sudden loss of handling capability.

Complementing the suspension system and large rolling stock is an equally capable four-wheel disc brake system, consisting of 14-inch (355 mm) vented and cross-drilled front rotors and 13.4-inch (340 mm) vented and cross-drilled rear rotors.

The front rotors are acted upon by large, red-painted six-piston calipers that use six individual brake pads. Individual brake pads are used because they deliver more equalized wear compared to what would otherwise be a pair of very long single-piece pads. For the rear brakes, four-piston calipers with four individual brake pads are used. A Delphi four-channel ABS system is standard, as is a very competent active handling system – complete with a Competitive Driving mode.

* Horsepower and torque are SAE certified.

Posted by Frank at 11:42 AM

Technology + Vehicle Maintenance = Time Savings

Goodwrench Helps Owners Simplify, Understand and Use Technology to Maintain Their Vehicles

DETROIT – In today’s hectic world, when a vehicle needs service, drivers look for the simplest solution to get back on the road quickly.

Wading through a complicated matrix of information in an owner’s manual to understand a maintenance schedule can sometimes be time consuming and confusing. However, advances in technology at General Motors have made it possible for vehicles to tell their owners when service or maintenance is needed.

According to the 2006 Yankelovich MONITOR “Finding Time Perspective,” 70 percent of consumers 16 years and older say they don’t have enough time to do all the things they need to. Approximately 50 percent say a lack of time is a bigger problem in their lives than a lack of money. Yet more than three-quarters of consumers say most products and services that claim to save time do not really make a noticeable difference in the amount of time they have available in their week.

Goodwrench knows time is money

When time becomes more valuable than money, technology can help. GM and Goodwrench are working to make it easier for vehicle owners to maintain and service their vehicles. Automotive technologies such as GM’s Oil Life System, OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics, Goodwrench Remote Diagnostics and Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) help save time and prevent consumers from having unnecessary maintenance performed. Combined, these technologies also provide peace-of-mind for time-crunched vehicle owners, and allow GM dealers to offer Simplified Maintenance Schedules.

“Each of the industry leading technologies GM has implemented are intended to make life easier for the consumer,” said Peter Lord, executive director, GM Service Operations. “We are delivering service and maintenance information in a way that consumers can easily receive and digest.”

David Bersoff, author of Yankelovich MONITOR’s “Finding Time” report says, “After multitasking, the use of technology tools is the top strategy time-starved consumers rely on most to buy back time in their lives.” Specifically, 47 percent of women feel it is essential to keep up with the latest technology products and services to stay on top of daily activities, according to the 2006 Yankelovich MONITOR. And, tech-savvy consumers, especially women (60 percent), go online everyday using technology and the Internet to find answers quickly.

OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics

OnStar’s capabilities are the key to making it very easy for GM vehicle owners to understand their service and maintenance needs. Nearly half of OnStar’s almost 5 million subscribers have registered for OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics to receive free monthly diagnostic reports via e-mail. Each diagnostic report provides data on remaining engine oil life, emissions, engine and transmission, and braking systems, as well as air bag system checks and crucial tire pressure information on vehicles with TPMS. The real-time reports are sent directly to the OnStar subscriber’s e-mail. Subscribers can enroll at the OnStar website (www.onstar.com) or press the vehicle’s blue OnStar button and sign up through an advisor.

Goodwrench Remote Diagnostics

With a press of the blue OnStar button, advisors can run an immediate Goodwrench Remote Diagnostic check on the vehicle if a warning light appears or a customer suspects that something is wrong. And if needed, Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) technicians are available to advise the customer if he or she can continue driving or if it’s necessary to find a safe place to stop and wait for roadside assistance.

GM Oil Life System

GM’s Oil Life System informs the driver when an oil change is required based on driving conditions and not on a predetermined time or mileage basis, such as the three months or 3,000 miles recommended by many manufacturers in the past. GM’s Oil Life System monitors engine speed and temperature, and the computer continuously examines engine conditions to determine when it's time to change the motor oil. This system can double or even triple the time needed between oil changes, and if used properly, can help consumers save time and money connected with unnecessary oil changes.

“A driver whose fuel tank is still two thirds full wouldn’t empty the tank and refill it, or a driver whose tires are half worn wouldn’t replace the them.” said Lord. “It is the same idea with prematurely changing oil that still has life.”

Simplified Maintenance

GM's Simplified Maintenance Schedules, based on the Oil Life System, are a convenience to drivers because it takes the guesswork out of when to change oil and it eliminates the need to make decisions regarding other routine maintenance. Basically, when the change oil light or message appears, the customer brings the vehicle in for maintenance. The technician changes the oil and performs any other necessary maintenance such as checking belts, rotating tires and changing the air filter.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Checking tire pressure is something drivers often forget or don’t make time to test. By making sure tires are properly inflated, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates drivers can improve fuel economy by up to 3.3 percent. A recent U.S. Department of Energy statistic cited in a study by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO-07-246R Under inflated Tires) estimates nearly 1.2 billion gallons of gas are wasted each year due to under inflated tires. GM’s TPMS helps alleviate this issue by tracking tire wear and pressure and helping motorists avoid tire failure and potentially dangerous, costly breakdowns. The system uses sensors mounted in each wheel to monitor tire pressure in real-time. Drivers are alerted to tire pressure changes so the issues can be checked and remedied quickly.

Online Maintenance Tips

Goodwrench’s redesigned Web site, www.goodwrench.com, is easy to navigate and offers visitors a variety of helpful vehicle safety and maintenance tips. Goodwrench.com helps locate the nearest GM Dealer and is a great online resource for learning about the service advantages certified GM technicians offer at more than 7,000 GM dealerships nationwide.

“GM has the right equation of automotive technology to simplify service and maintenance,” said Lord. “And, we have more advances coming that will give back even more time to consumers so they can keep up with the pace of their busy lives.”

About Goodwrench

Goodwrench is the service brand for GM vehicles - Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, HUMMER, Cadillac. With dealerships located nationwide and over 90,000 professionally trained service personnel, the Goodwrench network is one of the largest automotive full-service providers in the industry. Goodwrench technicians receive specialized training from General Motors to provide expert care for all GM cars and trucks. Goodwrench technicians readily use genuine GM replacement parts, which are manufactured to the same specifications of the GM vehicle. For more information, visit the GM Goodwrench web site at www.goodwrench.com.

Posted by Frank at 11:38 AM

Soldier Heroes to be Honored for Service in Iraq at Customized Car Show

BOSTON -- Three local Soldiers with the Boston Recruiting Company and the Massachusetts National Guard will be honored on stage for their service during the Boost Mobile "Hot Import Nights" customized car show this Saturday in Boston. The Soldiers are being recognized for their service in support of operations in Iraq.

A haven for car show enthusiasts, the "Hot Import Nights" shows feature performances by hip-hop artists alongside tricked-out cars. Soldier recognition ceremonies are scheduled for each stop on the 20-city tour between now a