Car Buyer's Notebook.com

May 18, 2007

Ferrari Challenge on the Speed Channel

Virginia International Raceway Showcases an Insider's Look at the Extraordinary World of Ferrari Owners' Racing

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS -- Ferrari North America, Inc., has announced that the Virginia International Raceway (VIR) will host the first of two Ferrari Challenge Series events to be broadcast on Speed Channel.

Both the May 18-20 Ferrari Challenge Series race at VIR, as well as the upcoming August event hosted at California Speedway, will be shown on the Speed Channel network, as well as Wealth TV in HD, taking viewers inside the extraordinary world of Ferrari Challenge racing and showcasing the drivers and their teams as they compete in the longest running, single-make racing Championship in North America.

Now in its 14th racing season in the U.S., the Ferrari Challenge Series (utilizing race-prepared 430 Challenge vehicles) offers Ferrari owners who are not professional racers the opportunity to compete against other Ferrari owners in a highly competitive racing series at world-class venues throughout the U.S. and Canada, and is regarded as the longest-running series of its type in North America.

"The Speed Channel network will allow viewers to experience the excitement of Ferrari Challenge racing on television for the first time," said Maurizio Parlato, president and CEO of Ferrari North America. "For more than 60 years Ferrari has been synonymous with the very same passion that our owners, drivers and fans experience as they watch all levels of Ferrari competition worldwide. We are proud to continue showcasing this tradition."

Virginia International Raceway (VIR) and California Speedway will be the U.S. venues which will host the Ferrari Challenge for Speed Channel. The Ferrari Challenge program is a co-production of Laguna Niguel, Calif.-based Baker Productions, and Winding Road Films of Crystal Lake, Ill. Both Ferrari Challenge segments will be anchored by noted automotive authority and TV personality Bill Baker, host of the Outdoor Channel series "Ride to Adventure." Baker will be joined by ESPN Sports personality Yomary Cruz and Road and Track magazine's Editor-At-Large, John Lamm, one of the world's leading automotive photo/journalists and Ferrari experts.

Both remaining U.S. Ferrari Challenge events will be open to the public, and tickets will be available at each track: Virginia International Raceway, May 18-20 (airing on Speed Channel July 7th at 7:30pm EDT and July 8th at 2:30 pm EDT) and California Speedway in Fontana, Calif., August 10-12 (airing on Speed Channel October 13th, at 7:30 pm EDT and October 14th at 2:30 pm EDT).

The Ferrari Challenge 2007 season extends through a total of 7 races, including two within Canada (the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, coinciding with Montreal's annual Formula One race, June 8-10th; and Mont Tremblant, Quebec, June 15-17, at the home track of Ferrari's North American driving school), as well as the season's World Finals, held October 25-28 in Italy.

The Ferrari Challenge is one of the numerous "exclusive" experiences that Ferrari offers its customers -- and whether owners are actually racing in the series, dining in the luxurious VIP hospitality tents, participating in weekend driving clinics or socializing with those that share their enthusiasm for Ferrari, the weekend festivals provide a unique atmosphere and incomparable experience. General public can enjoy the races, peruse the paddock areas, and enjoy the overall Ferrari-festival type of atmosphere.

The Challenge Series is one of the many assets Ferrari provides exclusively for its owners, and together with experiences such as the annual Ferrari Rally (www.ferrarirally.com), and Ferrari's North American Driving School in Mont Tremblant, Quebec (www.experienceferrari.com), the company continues to provide environments where owners can enjoy their cars in the manner for which they were intended -- with top performance and through unique opportunities and venues.

The Ferrari Challenge Series is organized by Ferrari North America, Inc., and sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association. Sponsors for 2007 include Motorola, Shell, Pirelli, Sabelt, Officine Panerai and Piaggio Aero. Complete Challenge information can be found on www.ferrarichallenge.com . Tickets for both the VIR and California Speedway Ferrari Challenge weekends can be purchased directly at each track.

Ferrari North America, Inc. is headquartered in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., and is the exclusive authorized North, Central and South American importer of Ferrari vehicles including the 599 GTB Fiorano V-12 sports coupe, F430 Berlinetta, F430 Spider convertible sports car, and 612 Scaglietti (luxury performance 2+2). For more information please visit www.ferrariusa.com.

Source: Ferrari North America, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 5:33 PM

Mothers Introduces High Gloss Tire Shine Spray

For more than 30 years, automotive enthusiasts everywhere have been using polishes, waxes and cleaners by Mothers to keep their car’s paint and wheels looking clean and shiny. But one key component is often overlooked — tires.

Enter Mothers Tire Shine, for keeping tires looking clean and well conditioned whether you’re cruising down the boulevard or hanging out at the show. The shiny deep black outline of a tire is the perfect complement to your vehicle’s paint and wheels.

Tire Shine features a trigger spray bottle that makes application quick and easy. The result is a high-gloss, grease-free tire that accentuates the vehicle’s glistening finish, yet doesn’t sling.

And Tire Shine helps protects against road dust, dirt and contaminants, ensuring a clean, glowing, long-lasting shine. Whether it’s for your daily driver or your weekend cruiser, Tire Shine is what you need.

Perfect for use after Mothers® Tire & Rubber cleaner, Tire Shine is available in the automotive car care section of your favorite local retailer.

Source: Mothers®, known worldwide for its premium-grade polishes, waxes and cleaners. Go to www.mothers.com for information on all these products, along with a lot of car care tips in the online Mothers® Detail Guide at www.detailguide.com and the Wax Forum at www.waxforum.com.

Posted by Frank at 3:53 PM

Brits Love Movie MINI Best

Mischievous Minis Voted Nation's Favourite

CARDIFF -- The Italian Job Minis have been voted as the nation's favourite cars from film and television in a poll by online car insurance specialist, elephant.co.uk. The second most popular was Back to The Future's DeLorean with KITT, Knight Rider's talking car coming in third.

elephant.co.uk asked motorists to name their favourite famous cars and their childhood had a big impact on their answers as each age group voted for cars in television series or films popular when they were growing up.

Motorists in their twenties went for '80s classic KITT, the talking car from Knight Rider while drivers in their thirties prefer the Dukes of Hazzard's General Lee. The over forties bucked the trend, and chose a British classic and the more sedate pace of Inspector Morse's Jaguar.

Ceri Assiratti, Managing Director of elephant.co.uk, said: "I think this survey shows that nostalgia guides people's feelings when it comes to their favourite famous cars. The top three also show that people love a bit of excitement when watching cars on screen.

"Personally, my favourites are the Minis in The Italian Job; I think it's unusual for the cars featured in a film to be as famous as the actors!"

When it comes to gender, men and women also have different favourites, with women favouring Herbie, the fun loving VW Beetle, and men preferring the Italian Job Minis.

elephant.co.uk is currently insuring the most recently released models of Mini at a lower insurance group.

Editors Notes:

1. Most popular famous cars

Car Percentage of votes

The Italian Job Minis 13.7%
Back To The Future's DeLorean 12.3%
Knight Rider's KITT 11.2%
Inspector Morse's Jaguar 11.2%
Herbie the VW 10.9%
The Dukes of Hazzard's General Lee 9.8%
The Batmobile 8.8%
A-Team van 7.7%
Starsky and Hutch's Ford Gran Torino 5.6%
Trotters Independent Trading van 4.5%

2) elephant.co.uk specialises in providing car insurance on the Internet.

3) elephant.co.uk not only offers quotes and sales online, but can handle some aspects of after-sales services and claims through its website. The site targets 20-35 year-olds living in cities, who traditionally pay higher premiums for car insurance.

4) elephant.co.uk (a trading name of EUI Limited) was launched in 2000, and is part of the Admiral Group. elephant.co.uk writes its motor insurance business to a consortium of insurers, these being:

a) Admiral Insurance Company Ltd

b) Admiral Insurance (Gibraltar) Limited

c) Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK) plc

Source: Elephant.co.uk

Posted by Frank at 2:28 PM

General Motors To Invest $61 Million In Defiance For New Casting Technology

DEFIANCE, OHIO – General Motors Corp. will invest $61 million in new technology at its Defiance plant to produce aluminum engine blocks in 3.6-liter high-feature V-6 (HFV6) engines. This will be the first application of precision sand casting technology at the plant.

The precision sand technology results in higher material strength properties needed to support the newer, more efficient engines in GM’s product portfolio. The 3.6-liter high-feature V-6 engine has applications in the Cadillac CTS, SRX and STS; and the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave crossover SUVs.

The investment includes plant renovation and installation of new tooling and machinery for the new technology. Refurbishment of 120,000 square feet portion of the plant is slated to begin in June, with production of the precision sand engine block castings to begin in December 2009. The project will retain about 120 hourly jobs.

“We are transforming GM’s casting business and moving in a new technological direction to be competitive in the changing marketplace,” said Arvin Jones, GM Powertrain manufacturing manager for castings and components. “The Defiance plant is part of that transformation. This investment is possible because of the involvement of employees in improving the quality of our products and the efficiency of the operations here. Their efforts are contributing to GM’s turnaround in North America.”

The GM Powertrain Defiance plant management and UAW Local 211 leadership successfully negotiated a competitive operating agreement that improves operational effectiveness. The agreement also addresses processes and methods to improve production quality and safety of the operations.

“On behalf of GM, I commend the United Auto Workers, UAW Local 211 and Ohio ’s leaders on the state and local levels. Working together we were able to build a competitive business case to support this investment in Ohio. This investment, combined with GM Powertrain’s investments at its transmission plant in Toledo, total nearly $1 billion that GM has committed to its Ohio facilities in the last year,” said Jones.

GM also announced earlier today, a $332 million investment at its Toledo, Ohio transmission plant for production of a new line of fuel-efficient, front-wheel-drive, six-speed transmissions. The Ohio transmission plant is currently undergoing a $540 million expansion for rear-wheel drive, six-speed transmissions announced last year.

“General Motors’ continued investment in its Ohio manufacturing facilities is good news for Ohio workers and a testament to the great value of our highly skilled workforce,” said Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland. “I commend the UAW, GM and Ohio’s leaders on the federal, state, county and local levels for helping to provide the competitive climate to support these investments.”

Precision sand casting involves a resin-bonded sand that forms a mold, which shapes the contours of the engine block to be produced. The sand is cured into a solid exterior mold. Molten metal is then poured into the mold. This process allows the use of cast-in-place iron liners, pressurized aluminum filling and produces a high degree of dimensional accuracy.

“Today marks an exciting new chapter in this plant’s 59-year history of producing high quality castings for GM engine blocks and heads,” said John Thomas, Defiance plant manager. “This investment plays a significant role in GM’s continuing commitment to build exciting, fuel-efficient powertrains for the global market.”

GM Powertrain’s Defiance casting plant poured their first iron on August 23, 1948. The plant employs 1,554 hourly and 246 salary workers and has an annual payroll of $135 million. In 2006, the plant produced 1,423,368 grey iron engine blocks, 1,078,497 grey iron cylinder heads, 206,577 aluminum engine blocks, 154,055 aluminum cylinder heads, as well as malleable iron transmission parts and nodular iron crank shafts. Grey iron cylinder blocks and cylinder heads manufactured at Defiance are used in the Vortec 4.8-liter, 5.3-liter and 6.0-liter V-8 engines that power GM’s full-size SUVs and light-duty pickups and the Duramax 6.6-liter V-8 diesel engine that powers the Chevy Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD pickups. Aluminum engine blocks and cylinder heads produced at Defiance are used in the 3.0-liter In-line four-cylinder and 3.7-liter five-cylinder engines that power the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon and Hummer H3.

Posted by Frank at 2:08 PM

11,000 Pirates Looking for Booty

More Than 11,000 Pirates Go Overboard in Search for Volvo's Sunken Treasure - Join The Hunt and Beat Them to the Booty!

Two weeks remain for treasure hunters to join The Hunt for $50,000 in gold doubloons, key to a new Volvo XC90

Visit volvocars.us/thehunt today to participate in Volvo's promotion with Disney for Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

IRVINE, Calif. -- Caaaaaaarrrrrrr! Join the global treasure hunting adventure more than 11,000 "pirates" are enjoying. Over the past two weeks participants in Volvo's online, global hunt for a sunken treasure chest filled with $50,000 in gold and a key to a new Volvo XC90 have 'visited' Cuba, the Cape of Good Hope, Ceylon, Singapore and nine other global hot spots.

Individuals nationwide have less than two weeks to join The Hunt that Volvo Car Corporation is conducting as part of a promotional tie-in with Disney's upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End.

"There's still time to join the 11,000 people already navigating their way through The Hunt," said Linda Gangeri, national advertising manager for Volvo Cars of North America. "Clever pirates can catch up with The Hunt and test their online game skills right up until the puzzles close May 29. There might even be some helpful hints floating around the Internet for ambitious newcomers."

To join The Hunt, participants 18 and older must visit a Volvo retailer to pick up a special pirate chart then register at volvocars.us/thehunt any time between now and May 29. Winners will only be eligible if they can produce the original pirate chart upon conclusion of The Hunt.

Once registered online, hunters set sail on a virtual high seas adventure, visiting exotic locations around the world and receiving clues, as they solve a series of challenging and fun online puzzles. As the contest progresses, the puzzles will become increasingly harder to solve. On June 2, the first person from each of the 22 participating markets to finish the online hunt will compete against one another in one final exciting online challenge.

The first of those 22 individuals to solve the final puzzle will be named the winner and will receive a trip to the burial location to retrieve the chest filled with $50,000 in gold and a key to a new Volvo XC90.

In addition to the United States, Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Kingdom are participating in The Hunt.

Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End opens in U.S. theaters May 25.

Participants in The Hunt are encouraged to visit http://thehunt07.spaces.live.com/, Volvo's treasure hunt blog and message board, to learn more and discuss the Hunt's developments.

About Volvo Cars of North America

Volvo has been building cars with Safety in mind for 80 years. The current 2007 model line-up of Volvo Cars includes: the award-winning S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan; the all-new S80 luxury sedan; the versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); and the new C70 convertible with the innovative retractable hardtop.

Volvo treasure hunt blog: Thehunt07.spaces.live.com

Source: Volvo Cars of North America

Posted by Frank at 1:42 PM

Ford sponsors the Funkmaster's Car Wars

DEARBORN, Mich. – Ford is teaming up with radio and TV personality Funkmaster Flex for the second season of his reality TV series, “Car Wars with Funkmaster Flex.” Season two of “Car Wars” debuts Sunday, May 20, 2007 and will chronicle the real life drama of four customizers competing in a six-week race to customize a 2007 Ford Expedition.

“I thought it would be a great idea to match the hottest car customizers in the country with the hottest SUV, the 2007 Ford Expedition,” said Funkmaster Flex, widely respected as the hip hop guru of car customization. “Car Wars is going to capture the blood, the sweat, and the tears of these guys as they each try to balance their passion for cars with their complex personal lives.”

The four featured customizers will compete against each other to win the “Ford Best in Show” award and a grand prize of $50,000. The show, produced by Monica Taylor Enterprises Inc., will air at 1:00 p.m. EST on ESPN2 for six consecutive weeks. All six episodes will be available for viewing online at www.FordUrban.com.

Ford also will air a new Ford Expedition television commercial during “Car Wars” episodes. Produced by UniWorld Group Inc., the commercial features Flex as host of an ‘Expedition Challenge’ with the Chevrolet Suburban to see which vehicle owner can stow their third-row seat the fastest. The commercial is based on the “Ford Challenge” campaign that is already delivering sales success. Expedition has experienced eight consecutive months of sales increases since the new model launched last fall.

To further engage the viewing audience, each episode will promote a national sweepstakes to win the 2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition, the new limited-edition vehicle that will be available at dealerships this Fall. Viewers will be encouraged to log onto www.WinAFlexExpedition.com to enter to win. In addition, attendees of the 2007 Funkmaster Flex Custom Car & Bike Show Tour will also have a chance to enter to win onsite, where all four of the “Car Wars” contestant’s customized Expeditions will be on display at each of the remaining tour stops. One overall sweepstakes winner will be announced in July.

“Funkmaster Flex has been a great partner for Ford. He’s brought us so many opportunities to connect us with young urban consumers,” said Michael Laquere, Ford SUV Marketing Communications Manager. “We’ve done some product placement in Flex’s other TV shows,
but when he pitched the “Car Wars” concept to us, it was a unique opportunity to connect our Expedition product launch with Flex’s passionate audience of car customizers and enthusiasts.”

Ford research shows that nearly half of all new-vehicle buyers are adding unique touches to their vehicles and Expedition is no exception. Modifications to the Expedition are as diverse as the needs of buyers – from adding touches for increased urban street appeal, to adding additional off-road capability, to custom cargo storage. Funkmaster Flex, a major influence in hip hop culture, has developed a fan base of young urban automotive enthusiasts who take pride in their personal style. Their vehicle often defines their lifestyle.

“Music is my life but cars are my passion,” said Funkmaster Flex. “I’m excited about partnering with Ford on my new show “Car Wars with Funkmaster Flex.’ I’m equally excited about getting the fans involved to show their passion, energy and dedication.”

About Funkmaster Flex

A New York City native, Funkmaster Flex is synonymous with hip hop. For over a decade, he has reigned as America’s #1 Hip Hop personality, reaching more than two million listeners a week through his popular radio show. His production talents and artist relationships have earned him five gold records for major-label mix albums.

Funkmaster Flex has successfully connected his hip hop celebrity status to the auto industry to become a guru of car customization culture. Through his high-profile custom-car club, Team Baurtwell, Flex has customized cars for attention-drawing personalities like Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, Shaquille O’Neal and Orange County Choppers. Currently, Flex features these celebrities and their cars on his hit television series “All Muscle with Funkmaster Flex” airing on ESPN2. Funkmaster Flex’s ten-city “Custom Car and Bike Show Tour,” now in its seventh year, keeps him connected with the latest trends and styles happening in the automotive industry.

In 2005, Ford Motor Company started a relationship with Funkmaster Flex. He is currently focused on reinventing Ford’s American car customization culture for an all-new urban enthusiast. To date, he has customized over 15 vehicles for Ford. At the 2005 Ford SEMA show press conference, Flex stole the show with a tuned Ford Fusion wearing a 3dCarbon body kit. His customized Ford Fusion and F-150 were featured attractions on his car show tour.

Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition

In April, Flex joined Ford at the 2007 New York International Auto Show to debut the 2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition (FMF). Coming to dealer showrooms this fall, the Expedition FMF demonstrates how Ford is leveraging key partnerships to create exciting new products.

Outside, the limited-edition Expedition will sport a two-tone Colorado Red-and-Black paint scheme with Orange pinstriping and special chrome badging, a custom front fascia with integrated fog lamps, side skirts, rear fascia and 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels. Inside, a matching Colorado Red instrument panel, console bezel, shifter and switch bezels blend with four leather captains chairs with red stitching, FMF red logo headrests, and a red-stitched steering wheel. Rounding out the package is an exclusive numbered dash plaque signed by Funkmaster Flex.

The Expedition FMF Edition also sports a 340-watt Audiophile Sound System, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, MP3 player audio jack, PowerFold™ third-row seating, heated and cooled front seats and an optional navigation system, power liftgate and rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Posted by Frank at 1:35 PM

Ford launches teams of "MODEL" volunteers

DEARBORN – Ford Motor Company announced today a new philanthropic program that mobilizes employees to volunteer on teams to tackle community related issues.

These MODEL Teams, as they will be called, reflect Ford's legacy as the company prepares for the 100th anniversary of the Model T in 2008.

"All of us at Ford consider corporate citizenship a key part of who we are as a business. Through financial support, combined with Ford employees' volunteer efforts, we will make a difference in communities across the country," said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. "The launch of MODEL Teams underscores our commitment to meet the changing needs of the communities we do business in, and respond to opportunities for volunteerism and leadership."

MODEL Teams will serve as the Ford Volunteer Corps' vehicle to deliver employee volunteers to communities in need. Ford Volunteer Corps recruits employees and retirees to join community-engaging volunteer teams, including those related to human services, education, disaster preparedness, relief and recovery, environment and more. MODEL Teams help build company pride, teamwork and camaraderie.

To kick off the new MODEL Teams program, Vella announced the first partnership with a non-profit organization aimed at focusing the company's efforts in key areas aligned with the Ford Motor Company Fund. He presented Charles Hiteshew, COO, of America’s Promise a $50,000 check in support of their programs dedicated to the well-being of children and youth.

“The Ford Motor Company has again stepped into the role of trailblazer with the creation of this new volunteer program and we are honored that they have chosen America’s Promise Alliance as the vehicle from which to deliver this service to our communities,” said Marguerite W. Kondracke, president and CEO of America’s Promise Alliance.

Also as part of today’s launch, an environmental MODEL Team comprised of Ford Motor Company employees and retirees, along with local Dearborn and Wayne County residents and workers, helped clean up and beautify the Rouge River. More than 400 people participated as part of a corporate community service program offered through the company. The effort is in its ninth consecutive year.

The Rouge River Cleanup efforts began at Dearborn's Ford Field city park, and included additional locations including the Henry Ford Estate, U of M Dearborn, Holliday Nature Preserve, Hines Park, Nankin Mills, Bryant Elementary School, Howard Elementary School, DCMST School, Neinas Elementary School, Dynamite Park and the Henry Ford.

"Our employees do a terrific job of volunteering to work on all kinds of community related projects and issues and they are making a real difference in the lives of thousands of people all over the country," Vella added. "This initiative allows us to provide them with focused opportunities to work on defined projects with measurable results and with financial support from the Ford Motor Company Fund. This is a very powerful combination."

One of the goals that Ford Motor Company and Community Services has set for the new MODEL Teams program is to have 100 MODEL Teams actively working in the community by October 2008 -- the 100th anniversary of the Ford Model T, the first affordable automobile and the car that "put America on wheels."

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, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.

About Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services
Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services is committed to creating opportunities that promote corporate citizenship, philanthropy, volunteerism and cultural diversity for those who live in the communities where Ford does business. Established in 1949 and made possible by Ford Motor Company profits, Ford Motor Company Fund supports initiatives and institutions that foster innovative education, auto-related safety, and American heritage and legacy. National programs include Ford Partnership for Advanced Studies, which provides high school students with academically rigorous 21st century learning experiences, and Driving Skills for Life, a teen-focused auto safety initiative. The Ford Volunteer Corps, established in 2005, continues Ford's legacy of caring worldwide. Through the Volunteer Corps, salaried employees, union members, retirees and their families participate in a wide range of volunteer projects in their communities. For more information on programs made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services, visit www.ford.com.

Posted by Frank at 1:30 PM

LiquiVac oil system keeps waste in its place

Spring Can Be Greener!

How 'do-it-yourselfers' can make a contribution towards a cleaner environment

PORTAGE, Mich. -- Protecting the environment is a hot topic today, but many people are left with the question, "What can I do about it?"

One of the key things one can do is to protect the soil and ground water by preventing the spills and mess of at-home oil changes. The second is to take the used oil to a local recycling collection center.

Each year in the United States, millions of gallons of used motor oil are being changed by do-it-yourselfers. But, many of them are not aware that oil spills, messes, and improper disposal of oil can lead to major environment pollution.

Many individuals who are unfamiliar with the importance of recycling used oil are unconsciously harming the environment by throwing it away with their everyday garbage or emptying their used oil into storm drains. Just one gallon of used oil (that's equivalent of less than 16 homeowners spilling one cup of oil) can contaminate 1 million gallons of water. This amounts to a year's supply of water for 50 people! Source www.EPA.gov

The LiquiVac Oil Changing System is an innovative, new product that makes oil changes fast, easy and clean.

The LiquiVac works by creating a powerful vacuum that draws oil right out of the engine and into a plastic holding tank for easy disposal to a recycling center. To extract the oil directly into the LiquiVac holding tank, simply insert the extraction hose through the engine dipstick tube, pump the handle 20 times and release the hose clamp. The LiquiVac can extract one quart of oil from an average size lawn mower in less than 14 seconds.

The LiquiVac is great for all the small engines such as lawn mowers, tillers, snow throwers, and in larger engines in boats and cars.

The LiquiVac is available in the outdoor power equipment sections of major retailers like Lowe's, Tractor Supply Co. and Ace Hardware stores, and online at www.liquivac.com . There are two LiquiVac models: the Small Engine Model (MSRP $34.99) and the Large Engine/Project Model (MSRP $44.99).

Recycle used oil carefully.

Used motor oil that is collected by "do-it-yourselfers" is critical to the used oil recycling system. Motor oil has value even after it has been drained from an engine. The oil you take to a collection center will save energy. It can be reprocessed and used in furnaces for heat or in power plants to generate electricity for homes, schools, and businesses. It can also be sent to a refinery that specializes in processing used oil and re-refined into lubricating base oils that can be used to formulate engine oils.

The LiquiVac enables homeowners to change their oil without the mess while making it convenient to take used oil to the recycling center. Many people do not realize the numerous oil recycling places near their homes. Just look up Earth 911 on the web at www.earth911.org , or call 1-800 CLEANUP. They will provide a list of recycling centers in one's zip code area.

Now anyone can make a difference in keeping our environment clean.

LiquiVac is manufactured by Airpower America, a privately owned U.S. manufacturer of innovative air powered products, located in Portage, Michigan. Airpower America manufactures and distributes oil changing products, and a variety of manually operated floor air pumps and electric inflators. For additional information, call 1-800-224-2225 or visit www.airpoweramerica.com

Source: Airpower America

Posted by Frank at 1:26 PM

Chrysler Group Marks 500,000th Brand Spankin' Used Vehicle Sale

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- The Chrysler Group marked the sale of its 500,000th Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) at Fletcher Chrysler Products in Franklin, Ind.

To celebrate the milestone, the company presented the lucky customers, John and Debora Seering, with an appreciation check equal to the amount paid for their recently-purchased 2006 Dodge Durango.

“We have purchased several vehicles from Fletcher Chrysler Products over the years and have always received very good service at the dealership,” said John Seering. “We decided to buy Dodge certified because we knew we could find a dependable vehicle with a warranty and low mileage at a great value.”

Furthermore, upon hearing news of the appreciation check, the Seering’s turned around and purchased yet another Chrysler Group vehicle, a 2007 Dodge Ram Mega Cab pickup truck.

“We are very happy to have reached this 500,000 certified vehicles sold milestone, which demonstrates the value that Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge CPO vehicles continue to have in the marketplace,” said D.P. (Bud) Place, Senior Manager – Used Vehicle Sales & Marketing, DaimlerChrysler Motors Remarketing. “We could not have reached this goal without the outstanding efforts of our Five Star® dealers like Fletcher Chrysler Products, and the loyalty of our customers.”

The Chrysler Group launched its Brand Spankin' Used® CPOV brand in the U.S. in 2002 and was the last of the top-five volume automotive companies to enter the certified pre-owned vehicle segment. Yet the time taken to conduct research and analysis into the program has allowed the Chrysler Group to secure its position as the fastest growing certified used-vehicle brand since then.

About the Chrysler Group Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) program:
The Chrysler Group offers one of the most comprehensive Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) programs in the industry. For a vehicle to be certified under the Chrysler Group's used-vehicle program, it must be a 2002 through 2007 model preowned vehicle with less than 65,000 miles and pass a stringent 125-point inspection. The Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are backed by an eight-year/80,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, 24-hour, 365-day full roadside assistance with a $35 per day rental car allowance and a three-month or 3,000-mile Maximum Care warranty, in addition to a Carfax Vehicle History Report and buyback guarantee.

Marketed as "Brand Spankin' Used®," the Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are sold only through Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge dealerships that have earned the automaker's Five Star certification. Five Star certification is a comprehensive validation of the dealership's facilities, operational processes, salesperson and technician training accreditation as well as customer satisfaction survey ratings. Approximately 2,100 Chrysler Group dealerships in the United States are certified Five Star dealers.

Posted by Frank at 12:03 PM

Rare Alfa Romeo 1933 Monza to Compete in 2007 Mille Miglia Retrospective

Italian-American Cooperation Brings Vintage Car Back to Italy

Photo credit: James Mann

NEW YORK -- A legendary Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza sports car will hit the circuit of the Mille Miglia today in a return to European competition.

The Alfa Monza, which is owned by the Fratelli Auriana team, is believed to be the model raced by Tazio Nuvolari in his winning bid in the 1932 Monaco Grand Prix. It later was entered in the 1933 Monaco Grand Prix and French Grand Prix and, in 1934, placed second in the British Empire Trophy Race, when it was driven by Charles Brackenbury.

The Fratelli Auriana 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C Monza is being driven by an admiral of the Italian Navy, Giovanni Vitaloni, former Military Advisor to the United Nations Italian Mission. Admiral Vitaloni was the co-driver of Fratelli Auriana's rare 1952 Cisitalia 202 D coupe in the 2005 Mille Miglia.

Joining Admiral Vitaloni as co-driver is Joseph Colasacco, of Connecticut, who in 2004 won the Formula Junior Historic Grand Prix of Monaco while driving a 1959 Stanguellini for Fratelli Auriana.

The Fratelli Auriana racing team is owned by Lawrence Auriana, Senior Portfolio Manager and founder of the Federated Kaufmann Fund. He is also Chairman of the Columbus Citizens Foundation, which organizes New York's annual Columbus Week Celebration, the world's largest series of events that pays homage to Italian-American friendship, cooperation and culture. Mr. Auriana's partner in Fratelli Auriana is his brother, Mark.

"Our entry in this year's Mille Miglia is a tribute to the strong, historical and cultural ties that unite in friendship two great nations -- Italy and the United States," said Mr. Auriana.

From 1931 through 1937, Alfa Romeo Monza sports cars dominated road racing. The 8c 2300 featured a 2300 cc in-line eight-cylinder engine and was designed by Vittorio Jano and was crowned a supreme feat of engineering by the foremost drivers of the day -- Nuvolari, Borzacchini, Varzi, Campari, Brivio and Trossi -- all of whom raced the Monza. The Alfa Romeo 8c 2300 acquired the "Monza" designation after Nuvolari drove the car to his 1932 Italian Grand Prix win in a race in Monza, Italy.

Only a handful of the Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 sports cars are known to have survived the gruelling demands of road racing in the mid-20th century. They are among the most highly sought after cars in the world.

The 2007 Mille Miglia features 325 cars built between 1927 and 1957 and takes place in three stages. The first leg takes drivers from Brescia to Ferrara on May 17, the second to Rome on May 18, and the third back to Brescia on May 19. (For more information, visit www.millemiglia.it.)

Source: Lawrence Auriana

Posted by Frank at 11:58 AM

MADD's 'Take Two' Show Reveals Dangers of Underage Drinking and Reckless Driving

DALLAS -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and National Presenting Sponsor DaimlerChrysler's Road Ready Teens program have delivered a sober message during the 2006-2007 school year through a dynamic multimedia school assembly show encouraging secondary school students to make smart choices about not using alcohol and driving safely.

Since 2001, nearly 5 million students of all ages in more than 8,000 schools have seen MADD's multimedia shows.

Schools often bring in the shows as part of their on site prevention programs during Red Ribbon Week, drug prevention awareness month and other peak times of the year including holidays, spring break, prom season and graduation.

Alcohol is the number one drug problem among our youth according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that traffic crashes are the number one killer of teens.

"Unfortunately, throughout the school year students face the challenges of peer pressures to drink and to act in dangerous ways in an effort to celebrate a special time in their lives," said Glynn Birch, national president, MADD. "This show is designed to speak sensibly to teens about how to act responsibly all year long, but it's a particularly relevant message now as teens need facts on why they should make smart and healthy choices. For those under 21, alcohol clouds precious memories and is never a good way to have fun, especially given it is illegal in all 50 states."

Take Two is based on a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood to show that, on a movie set, actors get second chances when they make mistakes. But in the real world, there aren't always second takes. Take Two helps students realize they should not buy into the hype Hollywood presents about alcohol, tobacco and other drug use with advertising targeting the teen market. The show also teaches students the importance of making healthy choices, avoiding alcohol and other drug use and understanding the risks and responsibilities as new teen drivers. Imagery, music and language engages students as poignant stories of real young people; celebrity interviews; clips from major motion pictures; and a contemporary soundtrack saturate the viewers' senses.

Since 2004, DaimlerChrysler's Road Ready Teens program has worked with MADD to include safe teen driving messages in the multimedia assembly show and prepare teens for the risks and responsibilities they face behind the wheel. Through Road Ready Teens, teenagers are able to first gain valuable experience and driving maturity before facing high-risk situations behind the wheel. Unique to the Road Ready Teens program is its outreach to teens through the StreetWise video game. The Road Ready Teens guidelines are imbedded in the game, making learning seamless and part of the fun. The game -- which is available free on the Internet at http://www.roadreadyteens.org/ -- combines the popularity and excitement of video games with the principles behind safe driving to challenge and teach teens about driving risks and safety practices.

"With so many teens injured or killed on our nation's roadways each year, it is important to reach out to teens about the risks that come with getting behind the wheel," said Deb Morrissett, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs for DaimlerChrysler. "The MADD multimedia show provides our Road Ready Teens program with the opportunity to take safe teen driving messages and the StreetWise video game straight to new and inexperienced drivers in a memorable and entertaining format."

A recent survey by MADD of 1,410 students who watched MADD's other secondary school show, The Spot, during the 2005-2006 school season, highlighted the impact on students' views as found below. Results from the 2006-07 show, Take Two, questionnaires will be available later this summer.

-- Eighty-seven percent of students surveyed stated that they learned more
about the dangers of underage drinking by watching the multimedia
presentation.
-- Fifty-one percent of students stated that, after viewing the multimedia
presentation, they were less likely to drink or start drinking.
-- Eighty-eight percent of students surveyed stated that the show gave
them a better understanding of how badly alcohol can damage the brain.

This year, Take Two has reached more 400 schools throughout the U.S. Also available are new DVD Class Packs that provide the tools for school leaders to take the show's messages into the classroom. The class packs include a facilitator's guide, DVDs, student handouts and posters to promote the exciting new resource on campus. To check show availability in your area and/or to order DVD Class Packs, call 800-438-6233 ext 4504 or email assembly@madd.org.

Source: Mothers Against Drunk Driving

Posted by Frank at 11:54 AM

GMAC Names SmartEdge Sweepstakes Winners

Two Winners get either Chevy Cobalt or HHR and $1,000 ExxonMobil gas card

DETROIT -- GMAC Financial Services (GMAC) today announced the two grand prize winners of its "2006 GMAC SmartEdge Get the Edge Instant Win & Sweepstakes."

The two lucky winners were chosen in a random drawing from more than 70,000 entries submitted at the SmartEdgebyGMAC.com website which promotes financial literacy.

The sweepstakes winners were Stella Walker of Mint Hill, N.C. and Ilma Rosskopf of Jarrettsville, Md. who won a 2007 Chevrolet HHR and 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt respectively. In addition, each will receive a $1,000 gas card from ExxonMobil and compensation to offset taxes.

SmartEdge is a financial education campaign created by GMAC to increase awareness about automotive financing options, unlock the mysteries of personal credit, and help consumers develop sound financial habits. The program and consumer tips are free to everyone with absolutely no strings attached.

"I had learned about the SmartEdge seminar while attending the CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) basketball tournament in Charlotte earlier this year, and decided to go even though I wasn't really looking to buy a car," explained Walker. "But the information was very helpful, and I do think it will be useful - but I'm very excited to be getting this one for free!"

This year, GMAC will expand its SmartEdge financial education seminar program from 13 target cities in 2006 to a national program supported by its 16 business centers around the country. GMAC conducted more than 1,900 SmartEdge financial literacy seminars, presentations and sponsorships last year, reaching more than a million consumers.

The 2007 Get the Edge Instant Win & Sweepstakes* has been expanded to include a chance at winning one of three 2008 GM vehicles: a Chevrolet Cobalt, a Chevrolet HHR or a Pontiac G6 Coupe. A fourth grand prize will be awarded on behalf of GMAC ResCap, the real estate finance subsidiary of GMAC, which will cover one year of mortgage payments, up to $10,000.

GMAC Financial Services is a global, diversified financial services company that operates in approximately 40 countries in automotive finance, real estate finance, insurance and other commercial businesses. GMAC was established in 1919 and currently employs 31,000 people worldwide. GMAC is passionate in its support of efforts that strengthen communities, focusing on housing and human services, financial literacy, education, youth development and the arts. For more information, go to http://www.gmacfs.com/.

* No purchase necessary. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. Legal residents of the 50 United States (D.C.) 18 years and older. Void where prohibited. Promotion ends: 3/31/08. For official rules, prize descriptions and odds disclosure, visit http://www.smartedgebygmac.com/.

Source: GMAC Financial Services

Posted by Frank at 11:27 AM

GM To Invest $332 Million In Toledo Transmission Plant

* New fuel-efficient, front-wheel-drive, six-speed transmissions added to line-up

* Approximately 600 hourly jobs retained

* Nearly $1 Billion invested in Ohio in one year

TOLEDO , OHIO – General Motors Corp. will invest $332 million in its Toledo, Ohio transmission plant to produce a new six-speed, front-wheel-drive automatic transmission that will deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy in GM’s mid-size vehicle segment.

The investment includes facility renovation, new machinery, equipment and special tooling to support the production of the new Hydra-Matic 6T40/45 six-speed transmission. In addition to the $332 million facility investment, GM will invest an additional $57 million for vendor tooling, containers and investments at other locations necessary to support the Toledo operations. Construction is slated to begin in July, and production of the transmission is scheduled to begin in February 2010. The project will retain about 600 hourly jobs.

“Six-speed transmissions play a key role in GM’s commitment to change the way the world drives,” said John Buttermore, GM Powertrain vice president of global manufacturing. “With more fuel-efficient transmissions and engines, as well as advanced propulsion technologies like flex fuels, hybrids and fuel cells, GM is transforming its product portfolio to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, while maintaining outstanding driving performance. The GM Powertrain Toledo plant and the new fuel-efficient products we are bringing here are integral in that transformation."

The investment announced today is in addition to a $540 million investment GM announced last year for rear-wheel-drive six-speed transmission production at the Toledo Transmission plant. Construction of the 400,000 sq. ft. project is about two months ahead of schedule.

“GM’s investments in Ohio, totaling close to $1 billion in the last year, is a significant vote of confidence in our employees and UAW Local 14 who have demonstrated their commitment and dedication to benchmark performance that is contributing to the company’s turnaround,” Buttermore said.

Buttermore thanked Ohio’s leaders on the federal, state, county and local levels – including Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland and Toledo Mayor Carty Finkbeiner – for providing the business case to support GM’s investments in Ohio.”

“GM is making an enormous commitment to the State of Ohio and I commend them for their investment in our state,” said Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland. “This is good news for Ohio workers and a testament to the great value of our highly skilled workforce and competitive business climate.”

The new 6T40/45 transmission provides improved fuel economy and performance and features a compact, contemporary design. It allows the vehicle to stay in first gear longer, improving launch and acceleration. It also retains an overdrive in top gear for low-rpm highway cruising. The transmission’s gear set is on the same axis as the engine crankshaft centerline, which makes the entire powertrain more compact. This provides chassis designers more flexibility in designing the vehicle’s interior space compared to a conventional off-axis transaxle.

GM Powertrain’s Toledo Transmission facility opened in 1916, and moved to its present location in 1955. For five consecutive years from 2000 to 2004 the Toledo Transmission Plant was ranked No. 1 in productivity by Harbour & Associates Inc.’s annual report on North American transmission and powertrain plants. The plant ranked No. 2 in 2005 and 2006. The 2.1 million sq. ft. plant employs 2,033 hourly and 265 salaried employees with an annual payroll of $276 million.

Posted by Frank at 11:26 AM

Chrysler Group Awards Contract to Metaldyne to Supply Eco-Friendly Exhaust Manifolds

PLYMOUTH, Mich. -- Metaldyne announced today it has been awarded a multi-year contract from Chrysler Group to supply environmentally - friendly exhaust manifolds for future vehicle platforms.

Metaldyne will supply fabricated exhaust manifolds that will help reduce emissions allowing Chrysler Group to meet PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) requirements for states that follow California's emission standards.

The unique single-wall design is comprised of a very large chamber that allows the exhaust gases to mix faster, and increase the operating temperature of the catalytic converter sooner. The manifold also includes a secondary air system that injects ambient air back into the cylinder head during cold start conditions. The ability to mix the exhaust gases at a higher rate and the use of the air injection system reduces emissions when a driver starts his or her vehicle.

"Environmental issues play an important role at Metaldyne," said Tom Chambers, Metaldyne president and chief operating officer. "We are excited to partner with Chrysler Group to develop products to help them meet their goal of lowering emissions, while continuing to provide improved performance."

About Asahi Tec

Headquartered in Shizuoka, Japan, Asahi Tec primarily designs, manufactures and sells ductile iron cast auto parts for truck and construction machinery OEMs, aluminum casting parts for truck and passenger car OEMs and aluminum wheels for automobile OEMs. Asahi Tec also designs, manufactures and sells environmental systems, equipment and development technologies used by local governments and municipalities and electrical hardware and equipment used by electricity generators.

Its subsidiary, Metaldyne, is a leading global designer and supplier of metal-based components, assemblies and modules for transportation related powertrain and chassis applications including engine, transmission/transfer case, wheel-end and suspension, axle and driveline, and noise and vibration control products to the motor vehicle industry. It is headquartered in Plymouth, Mich.

Asahi Tec has annual revenues of approximately $2.7 billion and employs approximately 10,000 employees at 55 facilities in 15 countries. For more information, please visit www.asahitec.co.jp and www.metaldyne.com.

Source: Metaldyne

Posted by Frank at 11:25 AM

Chrysler Group Executives and Marysville Community Leaders Break Ground for New Axle Plant

-- Chrysler Group to invest $700 million in Southeast Michigan axle plant

-- New axle plant part of $3 billion Chrysler Group 'Powertrain Offensive'

-- New family of corporate axles will provide increased fuel efficiency

Chrysler Group, St. Clair County and the City of Marysville will host a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the Company's future Marysville Axle Plant. The $700 million axle plant is part of the $3 billion Chrysler Group "Powertrain Offensive."

Chrysler Group and Marysville executives will be on hand for the groundbreaking and discuss the positive economic and business impacts of this investment.

Who: Frank Ewasyshyn, Chrysler Group Executive Vice President -Manufacturing

General Holiefield, UAW Vice President

John Cherry Jr., Lieutenant Governor

Jeff Mason, Senior Vice President and Chief Business Development Officer, MEDC

Marshall J. Campbell, President -- Economic Development Alliance of St. Clair County

Sandra Kilby, St. Clair Township Supervisor

Gary Orr, Mayor of Marysville

When: Monday, May 21, 2007, 2 p.m.

Where: I-94 East to Marysville exit #266. Exit the highway and make
right at first traffic light, Range Road. Travel south on Range
Road. Drive approximately 2 miles, turn left on Davis Road.
Officials will direct you to parking.

Details: Chrysler Group executives and state and local dignitaries will
be available for interviews.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 11:14 AM

Microsoft joins Clinton Foundation to monitor carbon emissions

Technology to help cities better understand and improve environmental footprint.

NEW YORK -- The Clinton Foundation and Microsoft Corp. today announced a long-term partnership to develop a suite of technology tools that will enable cities to accurately monitor, compare and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. The technology will include both software and services.

"The Clinton Foundation is committed to a business-oriented approach to the problem of climate change," said Bruce Lindsey, CEO of the Clinton Foundation. "This new software tool will be an important resource in our work with cities around the world to fight global warming in practical, measurable and significant ways."

"Technology has the power to make a positive, long-term contribution to solving the world's environmental challenges," said Craig Mundie, chief research and strategy officer at Microsoft. "By partnering with the Clinton Foundation, we can increase environmental awareness and drive sustainable change that will help cut global carbon emissions."

The Clinton Foundation and Microsoft will be assisted in developing these new measurement tools by ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability and the Center for Neighborhood Technology. Microsoft will build the new software tools using the knowledge base that ICLEI has acquired in developing its Harmonized Emissions Analysis Tool (HEAT).

The role of communities in tackling carbon emissions is vital. The Clinton Foundation and Microsoft believe technology can play a unique role in bringing people together to tackle the global environmental challenges that the world faces today. The partnership aims to empower cities with relevant technology to address shared global environmental issues.

Microsoft, together with a consortium of partners, will develop a single Web solution to allow cities to clearly understand their environmental footprint. With this information, cities can make better choices as they aim to improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The new online, Web-based software tools will be provided pro bono to cities and will be available by the end of the year. The software tools will support cities to collaborate in new ways via the Web and online communities, enabling them to work together to monitor their progress and share best practices. They will be compatible with existing emissions reduction tools for cities, allowing the export and import of data from other systems.

In August 2006, President Clinton launched the Clinton Climate Initiative, a project of the Clinton Foundation, and announced a partnership with the C40 Large Cities Climate Leadership Group, a consortium of 40 of the world's largest cities committed to fighting global warming. The online tools to be developed by Microsoft and the Clinton Climate Initiative will provide these cities with a baseline and standardized measurement of their carbon emissions, as well as the ability to track the effectiveness of emission reduction programs and share best practices.

Ultimately, the new software will serve as a global standard for cities in their climate change accounting, mitigation and communications efforts. The completed measurement tools will consist of a multilingual, online and offline software service accessible around the world. Microsoft will lead the technical software development, and will help establish a consortium of private sector partners that will support the cities in the creation and long- term sustainability of the project. The Clinton Climate Initiative will direct the project and disseminate the new tool to cities that are taking action to curb carbon emissions around the world. The Clinton Foundation and Microsoft will partner in this effort with ICLEI, building the new software tools using the knowledge base that ICLEI has acquired in developing emissions reduction tools for more than 1,000 cities worldwide. They also will be assisted in this effort by the Center for Neighborhood Technology.

The online application will enable cities to do the following:

-- Implement a common measurement system for emissions reductions
-- Perform analyses of potential projects and estimate their effect on
reducing emissions
-- Generate structured and custom reports for users based on inventory and
measures data
-- Access data from around the world and engage other cities in dialogue
about best practices in real time

About the Clinton Foundation

President Clinton established the William J. Clinton Foundation with the mission to strengthen the capacity of people throughout the world to meet the challenges of global interdependence. To advance this mission, the Foundation works with like-minded organizations and forms partnerships with national and local governments around the world to make an immediate and measurable impact in several areas, including bringing HIV/AIDS care and treatment to underserved populations, developing sustainable economic growth in Africa and fighting global climate change. The Clinton Global Initiative serves as a non- partisan catalyst for action, bringing together a community of leaders to devise and implement innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing issues. In the U.S., the Foundation is working to combat the alarming rise in childhood obesity and is helping to expand economic opportunity by empowering small business owners and entrepreneurs. Learn more at http://www.clintonfoundation.org/.

Source: Microsoft Corp.

Posted by Frank at 10:15 AM

Study: 9 out of 10 consumers blame oil companies for high prices

Results Showcase Opportunity for Automakers to be Market Heroes

NEW YORK -- TNS, one of the world's largest market information companies, today released highlights from a new survey focused on consumer attitudes towards rising gas prices in the United States, the parties responsible and those positioned to combat the surge.

The report comes at a time when gas prices are at an historic high, causing many consumers to take a closer look at this issue. Among the key survey findings are the following:

-- Consumers overwhelmingly blame oil companies for the higher gas prices,
with over 90 percent reporting oil companies were "somewhat
responsible" or "completely responsible"
-- Not far behind are governments -- the U.S. government and foreign
governments each selected by more than 80 percent of consumers as
"responsible"
-- Automakers, despite negative press on their propensity to offer SUVs,
are perceived to be least responsible for higher gas prices (less than
a third of respondents), though consumers expect them to help offset
the impact of higher fuel costs
-- Consumers themselves bear some of the responsibility -- two-thirds of
respondents said consumers were "somewhat responsible" or "completely
responsible" for helping to drive prices down

The study reveals that oil companies will continue to face increasing consumer backlash as prices continue to escalate. This has potentially broader ramifications as oil companies have broadened product portfolios beyond traditional gas stations. Additionally, the finding that the U.S. government is also responsible for prices being high has significant ramifications for upcoming elections, particularly with gas prices at historic highs.

"The results show that consumers see themselves as responsible for combating oil prices, but are looking for a team solution from automakers, oil companies and the government to drive prices to reasonable levels," commented Lincoln Merrihew, Senior Vice President of TNS Automotive in North America. "The good news for automakers is that consumers do not blame them for gas price increases. However, they are looking to automakers to solve the problem. Meeting those expectations can make them heroes; missing that mark can be a substantial risk."

About TNS Automotive

TNS Automotive is the world's largest automotive research practice, with offices worldwide and clients ranging from automakers to suppliers to petroleum companies to government agencies. The study is based on a representative national sample of 2,500 consumers in the TNS panel. The internet-based survey was completed the week of May 7th. Additional details on actual questions and respondent characteristics are available.

Source: TNS

Posted by Frank at 10:13 AM

AAA Chicago: Record High Gas Prices Won't Hinder Memorial Day Travel

AURORA, Ill. -- More people will take to the roads this Memorial Day weekend than ever before, despite substantial increases in fuel costs, according to AAA Chicago.

AAA estimates that 38.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this holiday weekend, a 1.7 percent increase from last year. About 32.1 million travelers, or 84 percent of all holiday travelers, expect to go by motor vehicle, a 1.8 percent increase from the 31.5 million who drove a year ago.

"Motorists may save money by staying closer to home or cutting their budget in other areas, but the roadways will be filled with Memorial Day weekend travelers across the country," says Beth Mosher, spokeswoman for AAA Chicago.

Prices may fluctuate during the weekend. Currently in Illinois, the price of regular unleaded is $3.38 per gallon, up 42 cents from a year ago. In Indiana, a gallon of regular unleaded costs $3.29, which is a 40-cent increase from 2006. Nationally, regular unleaded gasoline is $3.11.

Another 4.4 million (11 percent of holiday travelers) plan to travel by airplane, up 1.0 percent from last Memorial Day. A projected 1.9 million (5 percent of all holiday travelers) vacationers will travel by train, bus, or other mode of transportation, about even with a year ago.

Travelers will get a bit of a break this holiday weekend when making their way to their destination. AAA's Leisure Travel Index shows flights over the holiday weekend averaging 5 percent less this year than last year, with the average flight costing $166. Car rental rates are expected to fall 16 percent from last year, with renters paying an average of $31, almost $6 less than last year. Hotel rates, however, will be up about 13 percent from a year ago, with travelers spending an average of $174 per night at AAA 3 Diamond hotels.

The average household that is traveling this Memorial Day Weekend will spend $594.

Many American households will be traveling with their children. In fact, 57 percent of households with children under 18 will bring them along on their Memorial Day vacation this year nationwide. Travelers from the Midwest region are most likely to travel with their children, with 66.6 percent saying they would be bringing their kids along. The Southeast follows close behind with 60 percent traveling with kids under 18. Fifty four percent of parents in the Northeast will travel with their children, while 53 percent of parents in the West say the same. The lowest percentage of families traveling with kids under 18 will be from the Great Lakes region, with 50 percent.

AAA's travel agents continue to see increased interest in summer travel compared to a year ago, especially in international travel, which continues to grow in popularity. In addition, cruise sales for AAA travel agencies are up 4.7 percent, online bookings have increased 35 percent and sales of trip insurance are up 4 percent during the same period last year.

The greatest number of Memorial Day auto travelers will originate in the West with 7.6 million travelers, followed by the Southeast with 6.9 million; Midwest, 6.8 million; Northeast, 6.0 million; and Great Lakes, 4.8 million.

The West is expected to produce the largest number of air travelers with 1.4 million, followed by the Midwest with 1.2 million; Southeast, 900,000; Northeast, 500,000; and Great Lakes, 400,000.

Research for Memorial Day travel is based on a national survey of 2,000 adults by the Travel Industry Association of American, which conducts special research for AAA.

Source: AAA Chicago

Posted by Frank at 10:12 AM

1.1 Million Plan Memorial Day Travel, Says AAA Travel Survey

Auto travel up 3.9 percent in Midwest

DEARBORN, Mich. -- An estimated 1.1 million Michiganians will travel during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, launching the start of the 2007 summer travel season, says AAA Michigan.

According to a national survey conducted for AAA by the Travel Industry Association of America (TIA), more Midwest travelers are opting to drive instead of fly this Memorial holiday, despite high gas prices.

"High gas prices and increased vacation costs won't deter Americans from traveling this Memorial Day," said Claire Lockley, vice president of Travel for The Auto Club Group (ACG). "Many families will travel closer to home, they will travel for fewer days and will save money by staying in less expensive hotels and eating in less expensive restaurants, but they will continue to take vacations and plan getaways."

As of May 14, the statewide average for self-serve, regular gasoline was $3.271 -- 37.1 cents more per gallon than a year ago.

Travelers will get a bit of a break this year: AAA's Leisure Travel Index shows flights over the holiday weekend averaging 5 percent less this year than last year, with the average flight costing $166. Car rental rates are expected to fall 16 percent from last year, with renters paying an average of $31, almost $6 less than last year. Hotel rates, however, will be up about 13 percent from a year ago, with travelers spending an average of $174 per night at AAA 3 Diamond hotels.

For Midwest residents planning a summer vacation, the 10 most popular destinations are:

1) Yellowstone National Park WY
2) Las Vegas NV
3) Denver CO
4) Branson MO
5) St. Louis MO
6) Washington DC
7) Myrtle Beach SC
8) Niagara Falls ON
9) Chicago IL
10) Nashville TN

AAA's national survey contacted 1,500 U.S. residents. Respondents provided these insights into Memorial Day travel:

-- The greatest number of Memorial Day auto travelers will originate in
the West with 7.6 million travelers, followed by the Southeast with
6.9 million; Midwest, 6.8 million; Northeast, 6.0 million; and Great
Lakes, 4.8 million.

-- The West is expected to produce the largest number of air travelers
with 1.4 million, followed by the Midwest with 1.2 million; Southeast,
900,000; Northeast, 500,000; and Great Lakes, 400,000.

-- Many American households will be traveling with their children. In
fact, 57 percent of households with children under 18 will bring them
along on their Memorial Day vacation this year nationwide.

-- Travelers from the Midwest region are most likely to travel with their
children, with 66.6 percent saying they would be bringing their kids
along. The Southeast follows close behind with 60 percent traveling
with kids under 18. Fifty four percent of parents in the Northeast
will travel with their children, while 53 percent of parents in the
West say the same. The lowest percentage of families traveling with
kids under 18 will be from the Great Lakes region, with 50 percent.

The 78-hour Memorial Day weekend officially begins: 6 p.m., Friday, May 25 and ends 11:59 p.m., Monday, May 28. During Memorial Day weekend in 2006, 18 people were killed in 17 fatal crashes in Michigan, an increase from the 15 killed in 11 fatal crashes in 2005. Five of last year's victims were belted. Alcohol was a factor in one of the fatal crashes.

This year, Michigan law enforcement agencies will continue an ambitious program to make this the safest Memorial Day on record by increasing traffic patrols to strictly enforce safety belt laws. The Auto Club advises motorists to plan ahead and allow extra time to navigate construction areas on the state's highways.

Source: AAA Michigan

Posted by Frank at 10:10 AM

China Automotive Systems Signs Supply Agreement with VW

WUHAN, Hubei -- China Automotive Systems, Inc., a leading power steering components and systems supplier in China, today announced its subsidiary, Jingzhou Henglong Automotive Parts Co., has entered into an agreement with FAW Volkswagen to supply its high quality power steering systems.

The agreement will commence immediately, with a term of one year and an option to extend for a further two years. The power steering systems will be installed in Volkswagen's Jetta and Audi vehicles in China. The first commercial shipment will be delivered by China Automotive Systems on May 21st 2007. Other terms of the contract were not disclosed.

With this supply agreement, China Automotive Systems has entered into Volkswagen's global sourcing system. According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, two key Volkswagen joint ventures in China, FAW Volkswagen and Shanghai Volkswagen, collectively produced and sold more than 680,000 passenger cars in China in 2006. FAW Volkswagen, the number one passenger car producer in China, experienced a robust 40% year over year unit sales growth in 2006. In the first quarter of 2007, FAW Volkswagen's production and sales unit growth accelerated to 55% up from same period in 2006.

"This agreement represents a major step towards our goal of becoming the number one producer in the power steering market in China. After a decade long effort of improving our product R&D, quality control, production scale and after-sale customer services, we have finally become a tier one supplier to one of the largest global automakers. We are very excited about this opportunity to provide reliable and dependable support to Volkswagen's rapid growth in China. As China's passenger vehicle OEM market continues to grow, we remain focused on expanding our market share and strengthening our relationships with major OEMs, like Volkswagen, by providing high quality and competitively priced products. In addition, we continue to improve product quality and ramp up production capacity to prepare for potential opportunities outside of China," said Mr. Hanlin Chen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of China Automotive Systems.

Source: China Automotive Systems, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 10:07 AM

You Don't Need to be a Star to Get the 'OnStar Treatment'

New GM Corporate Advertising Campaign Showcases OnStar

DETROIT – The star treatment is a perk of fame. Celebrities are accustomed to special treatment and so are OnStar customers. Someone is there to assist with directions, to unlock the car door or summon help in a collision. The “OnStar treatment” is available to drivers of most GM vehicles, whether or not they happen to be famous.

A new General Motors advertising campaign created with Deutsch LA featuring OnStar launches May 20 on shows such as the NBC and CBS Sunday night movies. The online component will appear on the MSN homepage and other major websites.

In two 60-second spots, each featuring three celebrities, the stars are juxtaposed with “everyman” characters, demonstrating that you don’t have to be a star to receive the OnStar treatment. A series of 15-second vignettes will debut the week of June 4 featuring golfer Tiger Woods and NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon. The campaign will also feature vehicles from all eight GM brands: Chevrolet, Pontiac, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Saturn, Hummer and Saab.

Each of the stars receives the “OnStar treatment” via OnStar services such as unlocking a door, Remote Vehicle Diagnostics or stolen vehicle location assistance. The campaign also highlights OnStar services such as Hands-Free Calling, OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics e-mail messages and Turn-by-Turn Navigation.

“We want to show the world what OnStar customers already know – having OnStar means getting service that goes above and beyond what people expect from their vehicle,” said Mike Jackson, GM North America vice president, Marketing and Advertising. “A vehicle should be able to guide them to their destination turn-by-turn or send them an e-mail that tells them when key systems need service. OnStar makes this possible.”

OnStar, which was created by GM and began service in 1996, is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and communication services.

“The reality is today, we have nearly 5 million customers who are already getting the OnStar treatment millions of times every month,” said Chet Huber, president, OnStar. “The campaign builds on our brand strength in safety and security by bringing to life the incredible breadth of our current service offerings. By highlighting features like OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics, Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Hands-Free Calling, we’re simply adding to the list of unique features that continue to define what every vehicle should be able to do.”

On average, each month from February through April 2007, OnStar received 900 air bag deployment notifications; 750 Advanced Automatic Crash Notifications; 9,500 requests for emergency services; 700 stolen vehicle location assistance requests; 53,000 remote unlock requests; 6,000 Good Samaritan calls and 338,000 route support calls. In addition, OnStar subscribers make more than 15 million hands-free calls per month. On demand remote diagnostics are performed 55,000 times per month and more than 2.5 million subscribers received OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics e-mails (April 2007).

“When we first sat down with the OnStar tech guys and got the demo of all this thing could do, we were amazed. We thought it was just a safety device. It's hard to succinctly describe everything OnStar can do. But people who have it, can't live without it. We knew that was our challenge. To turn this into ‘bragging rights’ technology. That's what it is,” said Eric Hirshberg, president, chief creative officer, Deutsch LA.

OnStar will become standard on nearly all GM retail vehicles in the United States and Canada by the 2008 model year.

Posted by Frank at 10:04 AM

Chrysler Brand Survey Reveals the Hard and Soft Truth about Convertible Driving

- Drivers encouraged to drop their tops - convertible tops that is - as temperatures rise

- Chrysler Sebring Convertible is the first convertible to offer three automatically latching tops, including a retractable hard top

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- As temperatures heat up across the country, many Americans are working to get their "soft" bodies back in shape.

Between lunges, crunches and sit-ups, the Chrysler brand discovered consumers want to firm up more than just their legs, arms and stomachs this summer. They also want to firm up their tops - their convertible tops that is. In fact, a recent Chrysler brand survey revealed 62 percent of Americans want hard convertible tops.

While a majority of consumers prefer "hard" bodies and hard convertible tops, the survey also revealed a softer side of America. Here's the hard truth about the softer side:

- Get the Ice Cream Scoop: More Americans prefer the soft serve version
of the perfect summer treat - ice cream - compared to the hard, hand-
packed option (50 percent to 43 percent).
- Paperback Preference: Nearly seven out of 10 consumers (69 percent)
would rather have a soft, paperback book over a hard cover novel when
they're reading at the beach or on a summer road trip.
- Soft Rock Soothes: The Beach Boys, Steppenwolf, Lynard Skynard and
other classic soft rock artists were identified by Americans for making
some of the best convertible driving songs.
- Raise the "Soft Top" Roof: Even with the hard top option, one in three
Americans (33 percent) still prefer soft convertible tops. With a top
for everyone, the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is the
first convertible to offer three automatically latching top options:
vinyl, cloth and a body-color painted steel retractable hard top.

"No matter where you live, there's just something special about driving a convertible. It's exhilarating - windows down, hair blowing in the wind," said David Rooney, Director - Chrysler Marketing & Global Communications. "Regardless of whether you prefer the hard or soft top option on the all-new Chrysler Sebring Convertible, this summer is the perfect time to have fun cruising around town in the open air."

No matter if you are a first time convertible driver, planning to buy a new convertible or thinking about renting one, all convertible drivers and passengers should be familiar with a few universal driving tips that apply to all convertibles:

- Lock Your Valuables: Don't leave important documents or valuables in
plain site when parking any vehicle; if you're in a convertible and
parking with the top down, put valuable items in a locking glove box to
keep them safe.
- Sing, Sing, Sing: Top-down fun and good music go hand in hand ... but
think about what you're blasting since everyone around you can hear
your music choices.
- Protect Your Pet: Allow pets time to adjust to the convertible ride if
they're not used to riding with the top down; help acclimate your
canine companions by taking them on short trips, at low speeds and
eventually work your way up to cruising full speed once your pet has
had time to adjust.
- Hair Raising Experience: Driving with the top down can add extra volume
to your usual hair style. Take a quick peak in the mirror after
arriving at your destination to make sure the extra volume is
enhancing - not detracting - from your appearance.
- Soak Up the Sun: Top down driving is a great way to get your daily dose
of Vitamin D, but don't forget to apply sunscreen if you plan on being
in the sun for an extended period of time. The American Academy of
Dermatologists recommends wearing sunscreen every day if you plan on
being in the sun for more than 20 minutes.

For additional information about the Chrysler Sebring Convertible, visit www.chrysler.com/sebringconvertible/.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 10:02 AM

Competition Drives Fashion Students' Creativity

GM Awards Winners at InternationalAcademy of Design and Technology Fashion Show, IMAGINE 2007

CHICAGO – A futuristic dress inspired by the advanced technology of GM’s electric-driven Chevrolet Volt concept was among the stand-outs at IMAGINE 2007, the International Academy of Design & Technology (IADT) fashion show, held last night at Chicago’s Union Station.

The dress’ designer, Nora del Busto of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., was one of five IADT fashion student-winners in this year’s fifth annual GM Student Design Competition. Top prizes also went to:

* Robin Clayborne of Waukegan, Ill., for a unique zippered jacket embodying the sporty lines of the Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept;
* Shalanda Jarrett of Olathe, Kan., for a versatile, earth-toned ensemble with rock beading reflecting the environmental commitment behind Saturn’s Aura Green Line Hybrid;
* Anastasia Chatzka of Chesterfield, Mich., for an elegant pinched-waist dress mirroring the V shaped portholes and waterfall grill of the 2008 Buick Enclave; and
* Amber Lindblom of Minneapolis, for a sleeveless gown with mock French cuffs capturing the entrepreneurial spirit of the 2008 Cadillac CTS.

“GM kicked off this competition by asking the students to design original fashion garments inspired by one of five of GM’s hottest vehicles,” said Robert Boniface, director, GM’s Advanced Design Studio. “Having worked on the two concept vehicles – Chevrolet Camaro and GM’s electric vehicle, the Chevrolet Volt – I was excited to see how the winning garment designs captured the vibrancy and enthusiasm we strive for every day as car designers.”

More than 75 original designs were submitted by IADT fashion students in this year’s competition, themed “Runway to Future Design and Technology.” Winners, selected by a panel of experts in automotive design, marketing and fashion, received a $500 cash award from GM and a $200 gift certificate from Leonard Adler, a fashion industry wholesaler.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with General Motors for the fifth consecutive year,” said Kathy Embry, Dean, School of Design Studies at IADT. “IMAGINE is a great showcase for the latest designs from Chicago’s up-and-coming designers.”

About IADT and IMAGINE 2007

Located in downtown Chicago, IADT is an accredited four-year college that offers bachelor and associate degrees in a variety of disciplines based on a strong heritage in fashion and an expanding emphasis on high technology education.

IADT’s annual fashion show, IMAGINE, is a student-produced event, involving the work of students majoring in Advertising Design/Graphic Design, Video Production & Animation, Information Technology, Interior Design, and Merchandise Management, as well as Fashion Design. More than 100 original, jury-selected student fashions were showcased in IMAGINE 2007.

About General Motors’ Sponsorship of IMAGINE 2007
2007 marks General Motors’ fifth year as title sponsor of IMAGINE. The GM Student Design Competition was created in collaboration with IADT to provide students with a unique opportunity to stretch their creative abilities by drawing inspiration from GM vehicles. The sponsorship was created and executed by GM’s North Central Region, located in Naperville, Ill.

Posted by Frank at 10:01 AM

FuelMeUp.com: Summer Gas Prices on the Rise!

FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Gas prices have risen to record levels in the past few months. Bill McClure, CEO of http://www.fuelmeup.com/, predicts gas prices in certain markets could rise to over $4.00 per gallon in the next few weeks.

"I see nothing in sight to slow down the increases in gas pricing," McClure stated.

"We are seeing prices today vary from $3.89 in San Francisco, California to $2.99 per gallon in Miami, Florida," he added.

Many factors could drive prices even higher. The uncertainty in the Persian Gulf, refinery capacity problems, the approaching hurricane season, lower gasoline inventory and high consumer demand will all affect summer gas prices.

Many FuelMeUp.com consumers are planning ahead by locating the cheapest price of gasoline along their route.

McClure said, "Prices can vary as much as $.80 per gallon. By using our website, consumers can save over $10.00 every time they fill their tanks."

With Memorial Day approaching, many consumers are planning to stay close to home visiting lakes and state parks.

FuelMeUp.com is a consumer-driven site to help visitors find the lowest- priced gasoline in their city or zip code. The site tracks gasoline prices in thousands of stations nationwide and updates prices three times a day.

"It appears even with the record-high price of gasoline, consumers still want to drive and nothing is slowing them down," McClure stated.

Source: FuelMeUp.com

Posted by Frank at 9:55 AM

General Motors To Make Investment Announcement At Toledo Transmission Plant

When:
Friday, May 18, 2007
10:00 a.m. Eastern time
Please arrive by 9:30 a.m. for sign-in/safety protocol

Where:
GM Powertrain Toledo Transmission Plant
1455 Alexis Road
Toledo, Ohio

Who:
* John Buttermore, GM Powertrain Vice President of Global Manufacturing
* Tim Cobb, UAW International Servicing Representative
* Governor Ted Strickland, State of Ohio
* Mayor Carty Finkbeiner, City of Toledo

Posted by Frank at 9:55 AM

General Motors To Make Investment Announcement At Defiance, Ohio Casting Plant

When:
Friday, May 18, 2007
1:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Where:
GM Powertrain Defiance Casting Plant
26427 St. Rt. 281
Defiance, Ohio 43512

Who:
* Arvin Jones, GM Powertrain Manufacturing Manager, Castings and Components
* Tim Cobb, UAW International Servicing Representative
* Mayor Bob Armstrong, City of Defiance
* Defiance Chamber of Commerce President, Tim Small

Posted by Frank at 9:54 AM

Study: 22% of World's Largest Automotive Suppliers May Be Significantly Distressed Within One Year

North American Suppliers Are Most Vulnerable

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Twenty two percent of some of the largest global automotive suppliers are in jeopardy of becoming significantly distressed financially within the next 12 months, according to a study by BBK, an international business advisory firm.

BBK CEO William G. Diehl announced today the results of the study in a speech at the Automotive News Manufacturing Conference in Nashville.

"It is absolutely critical for OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to take a comprehensive proactive approach to carefully monitor both the operational and financial health of their suppliers," said Diehl. "If these companies are not proactively monitoring the health of their suppliers, they risk suffering a significant and costly disruption to their supply chain."

BBK conducted its study on 80 of the top 150 global automotive suppliers, based on 2006 revenues, using its proprietary BBK Ratings model, a tool that is used to evaluate both public company and private company financial data to determine the overall financial strength of a company. BBK Ratings assigns a grade from "A" to "F" depending on the potential for distress over the next 12 months. A company is considered distressed if it earns a "C," "D" or "F" rating.

Overall Findings

Approximately 33 percent of North American suppliers in the study were at various levels of financial distress including 11 companies that received an "F" rating. Asian suppliers were the healthiest with zero companies in distress while 14 percent of European suppliers were distressed. The average rating for Asian suppliers was "A," followed by European suppliers at "B+" and North American suppliers at "B-."

Since BBK's first Ratings study for fiscal year 2002, the number of "A" and "F" ratings have increased, indicating that there is little "middle ground" in the industry - suppliers are either healthy or severely distressed.

"Over the next few years, consolidation of the supply base will allow suppliers to leverage economies of scale and drive costs down," said Diehl. "The suppliers who find the right balance between outsourcing to lower-cost countries and looking for cost-effective ways to improve efficiency will be well poised for a healthy and sustainable future."

Other Findings

The study also revealed how highly leveraged North American suppliers when compared with their Asian and European counterparts, which makes them vulnerable to financial distress during adverse economic conditions. The average leverage ratio for North American suppliers was 3.46, which is 10 times higher than Asia's (0.32) and six times higher than Europe's (0.6).

"Although North American suppliers had a high leverage ratio in 2006, they made great strides to improve it by 31 percent from 2005 when their average was 5.03," said Diehl.

In addition, 55 percent of the North American suppliers in the study had revenues that were at least 80 percent automotive-based compared to 43 percent for European suppliers and 41 percent for Asian suppliers. The average rating for suppliers that had revenues that were at least 80 percent automotive-based was "B-" while the average rating for a supplier that had revenues that were 50 percent or less automotive-based was "A-."

"BBK Ratings provides our clients with a complete picture of their suppliers' health," said Diehl. "An auto manufacturer may be receiving quality components on time from a particular supplier, but that manufacturer may not be aware that the supplier is failing to meet its deliverables for another customer, which could eventually have a negative impact on all of its customers.

"That's why OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers need to have a proactive monitoring process to find those hidden weaknesses and take corrective actions before it's too late," said Diehl.

About the Study

BBK Ratings was developed in conjunction with Northeastern University Finance Professors Harlan and Marjorie Platt, who are renowned for their expertise in developing analytical models that predict corporate distress. For 2006, ratings were performed on 80 of the top global OEM automotive parts suppliers based on revenue, according to the annual list of "The Top 150 Suppliers to North America" published by Automotive News.

Ratings were performed on 79 of the top suppliers for the fiscal years 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005. Of the 80 suppliers evaluated in 2006, 42 are headquartered in North America, 21 in Europe and 17 in Asia. Together they represent 11 countries: Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland and the United States.

BBK, an international business advisory firm established in 1977, provides financial and operational services that enhance the growth, profits and stability of its clients. BBK has an extensive network of professionals throughout the United States, Europe and Asia, and has completed thousands of engagements for a variety of clients, including Fortune 500 corporations, mid- sized companies, financial institutions, law firms and private equity firms. For more information, visit www.e-bbk.com.

Source: BBK

Posted by Frank at 9:38 AM

May 17, 2007

Wristwatch as objet: TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz

Following the extraordinary success of the TAG Heuer SLR Chronograph Calibre 36R in 2004 (available exclusively for owners of the SLR car), and the TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz in 2006, TAG Heuer presents an even stronger version for 2007.

The new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz, in a limited edition of 3,500, celebrates not only one of the world’s most powerful and exclusive sports cars, but also the long and fruitful alliance between TAG Heuer, McLaren and Mercedes-Benz.

Its avant-garde design embodies the common values shared by these brands: prestige, innovation, and, of course, a passion for car racing.

The new edition of the Chronograph has captured some of the most distinctive design elements of the latest version of the SLR Dream Machine, the famous SLR 722 edition powered by a 650 ps engine and reaching 337 km/h: the painted exposed black carbon front spoiler and palladium-grey wheels rim spider have inspired the titanium-carbide black tachymeter bezel, while the red SLR lettering and red-painted brake callipers are echoed by the red painted hands.

Like the SLR 722, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes breathes more strength and pedigree than ever before.

The SLR’s innovative tradition continues with push buttons inclined at 45° (inspired by the paddle shifter of the SLR car), giving unparalleled ergonomic access to the chronograph function even while driving. The internal turning bezel is bi-directional, driven by a second crown at 9 o’clock that allows the driver to measure elapsed or remaining racing time. The exterior fixed bezel is finished in black fine-brushed titanium carbide with engraved tachymeter scale for calculating speeds.

Aimed at watch making connoisseurs and car racing fans, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz blends pure performance with the avant-garde. Its unique race car features, coupled with easy-to-read hands, spiral-effect dial, and a powerful steel bracelet or rubber strap that mirrors the SLR side grill, enhance its racing legitimacy, making it “the most authentic Chronograph for Professional Race Drivers and high profile GT owners on today’s watch market.”

Posted by Frank at 5:32 PM

Audi produces luxe-y, bespoke TT, considers small run

THE TT IN ITS PUREST FORM: THE AUDI TT CLUBSPORT QUATTRO

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Every Audi TT is noted for its clear lines, unmistakable dynamism and the driving characteristics of a sports car. Audi now presents the TT in its most purist form: the clubsport quattro study.

The Audi TT clubsport quattro study reduces the TT Roadster to a pure driving machine. A powerful engine, state-of-the-art technology and numerous traits borrowed from the world of motorsport are the dominant features of the TT clubsport quattro.

The goal that the development engineers set themselves for this vehicle study was to achieve purity at a premium level. No hood, no A-post – instead, a wrap-around windscreen kept extremely low which deliberately evokes images of a speedster. The flat, slightly tinted window strip surrounds the cockpit. The panoramic windscreen and the two humps located behind the interior in place of the trunk lid are reminiscent of a racing car. The rollover bars familiar from the TT Roadster are kept flatter and are the same height as the sports bucket seats.

The front end is dominated by the single-frame grille which has aluminum inserts to give its design a horizontal emphasis. This makes the TT clubsport quattro appear even flatter than it already is. The four rings of the logo are not located in the grille as on most Audi models, but on the hood.

The large air inlets in the front end supply additional air to the more potent TFSI engine. LED daytime running lights provide an eye-catching highlight at all times of day. The visible stainless steel rear silencer is the striking feature in the rear bumper, while the blade under the rear silencer visibly underscores the vehicle’s sports character. The dual-branch exhaust system with its oval tailpipes calls to mind the sporty Audi production models such as the RS 4.

There is a deliberate lack of visual interruptions in the side line and you will look in vain for door handles. The TT clubsport quattro is opened by remote control: the doors spring open at the press of a button.

The size of the two exterior mirrors has also been minimized. 20-inch wheels with 265/30 R20 tires emphasize the car’s muscular appearance, as does its track width which has been increased by a total of 3.2 inches (80 mm) compared with a production TT. Not only that, but the wheel arches have also been enlarged.

The car is painted Daytona Gray, a color that Audi used for the first time on the RS 4 and the S8. The exterior design features dark shades of gray. This forms a contrast with the metallic elements, with the grille and side grille in Gun Metal, a steely color which imbues the TT clubsport quattro with a look which is both sporty and pure.

The brake callipers, the orange color of which links the exterior design to the interior, provide a visual contrast. These bright color highlights also provide attractive visual touches in the interior, on elements such as the instrument cowl, the armrest and on the back of the bucket seats. The black leather seat itself also boasts a special feature in the shape of a laser pattern worked into the seat. This was specially designed for the TT clubsport quattro and plays on the TT logo.

The sports character demonstrated by the exterior design is continued inside the car, where purity was also the driving element. Racing bucket seats are provided for both occupants.

Together with four-point belts that are three inches wide, these offer both driver and passenger excellent support, even in extreme driving situations – on the racetrack, for example. The generous use of aluminum is characteristic of Audi. This starts with the steering wheel which is adorned with a twin-spoke crafted from this lightweight metal. The pedals are also made of aluminum and exhibit a grooved structure. They consequently not only afford a better grip, but also help to save weight. Foot rests are provided for both driver and passenger in the TT clubsport quattro.

The gear lever gate adopted from the new mid-engined sports car, the Audi R8, and the aluminum gear knob are a joy to behold. This lightweight metal is also used for the door pull and the door opener, both of which are cut-out, a feature which further underlines the interior’s purist character.

The sill area has also been restyled compared with the production model. Rather than being interrupted by a sill strip, it now emphasises the width of the car. A new door sill trim located further inside the car, along with floor mats sporting the TT logo as an aluminum inlay provide further visual highlights. The surrounding strip on the top shoulder is also made of this lightweight metal.

The Audi designers came up with a special idea in the field of entertainment. Instead of the middle of the three round air vents in the upper part of the dashboard, they integrated an interface here, designed among other things for the B&O MP3 player BeoSound 2. The round player built by Audi’s premium partner fits exactly into the circular opening and is a sheer delight for the senses, both visually and acoustically.

The instrument cluster is very different from the one in a production model. The vertical needles and color graphics are the eye-catching features. The clock and odometer have been omitted in keeping with the car’s underlying purist philosophy.

The racing character of the Audi TT clubsport quattro is underscored by its technology. The Audi engineers have packed the 2.0 TFSI engine with even more power than the 260 hp familiar from the Audi S3. The turbocharged four-cylinder unit with petrol direct injection breaks the magic 300 hp barrier. Thanks to a modified intake manifold, it has been possible to get even more power out of this highly efficient engine (which was “Engine of the Year” in its class in 2005 and 2006). Power is transferred to all four wheels, making the TT clubsport quattro the first new-generation TT with four-cylinder engine and quattro permanent four-wheel drive.

The transmission is also new in this performance category. Thanks to its dual clutch, the S tronic direct-shift gearbox changes gear virtually without interrupting the flow of power, a process that goes unnoticed by the driver. The six gears can, however, also be changed manually, with gearshifts taking just fractions of a second.

Anyone opening the bonnet will be met by a fascinating sight. Thanks to a lack of cables and auxiliaries, the engine compartment looks extremely clean. The engine has deliberately not been hidden under a cover. The cross brace running above the engine is a technical stroke of genius. It not only makes the car more rigid, but also contains the coolant expansion tank. The ABS system has been moved from the engine compartment to the interior. The air conditioning and activated charcoal filter are not to be found in the engine compartment either. A racing air filter ensures that the engine takes in a sufficient amount of air. The exhaust system has been adapted to suit the car’s sporty performance: the specially tuned exhaust emits the genuine sound of motor racing.

Ceramic brakes are fitted in the TT for the first time. These are absolutely non-fading and enable countless sharp braking maneuvres without any loss of stopping power. Once again, Audi has taken advantage of its superior wealth of experience: ceramic brakes are already offered for the RS 4, the A8 and S8 (Not available in U.S.), for example, and are enjoying increasing popularity with customers.

The Audi TT clubsport quattro is a purist driving machine that combines the performance of a sports car with a unique design language. It consequently remains a TT on the one hand, while at the same time demonstrating just what is possible with such a fascinating production vehicle. The possible small-series production of this model is being considered.

Posted by Frank at 10:19 AM

Nissan Announces Pricing on New 2008 Pathfinder

- Major Revision Includes Available V8 Engine for the First Time in 22-year History -

NASHVILLE – Nissan North America, Inc. announced pricing on the 2008 Pathfinder, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide.

For the first time ever, Pathfinder is available with a 5.6-iter V8 engine, offering an additional 44 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque over the standard 4.0-liter V6 for greater towing capacity.

Other major enhancements for 2008 include a restyled exterior and interior, and a range of available technology features such as RearView Monitor, Intelligent Key and BluetoothÒ hands-free phone system.

The 2008 Pathfinder is offered in six trim levels, each equipped with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission.

Pricing starts at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $25,700 for the Pathfinder 4x2 S V6 and $27,700 for the Pathfinder 4x4 S V6. Pricing for the new V8 models starts at $30,600 for the Pathfinder 4x2 SE V8 and $32,850 for the Pathfinder 4x4 SE V8. The Pathfinder SE Off Road model, available in 4-wheel drive V6 only, is $33,900.

“Pathfinder’s new Endurance 5.6-liter engine, which it shares with Nissan’s full-sized Titan pickup and Armada SUV, is rated at 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of torque – making it the most powerful V8 in its class* – and providing the towing capacity and rugged performance of a full-size SUV in a mid-size SUV package,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “V8s now account for 30 percent of mid-size SUV sales, so we expect the new Pathfinder V8 to find a highly receptive audience.”

The 2008 Pathfinder’s exterior features new front and rear fascias that maintain the rugged yet sophisticated look that has always distinguished Pathfinder, a restyled grille and hood (with changes to accommodate the V8 engine), new chrome appliqué for body side moldings (LE only), restyled 17-inch wheels (SE V6 and LE V6 models) and new 18-inch wheels for V8 models, a RearView camera (SE & LE only) and a new rear lift gate with power cinch feature.

Inside, Pathfinder receives a host of newly available amenities and technologies, including a new meter cluster appearance, new instrument panel-mounted 7-inch color monitor with RearView Monitor (standard on all grades except S), an available Nissan Navigation System with a 9.3-gigabyte Music Box hard drive for mp3 storage, new cup holder area design and revised upper door trim.

The volume-leading SE trim also adds the previous model year’s Comfort Package option equipment as standard, making the SE a highly equipped trim level and a better value. Intelligent Key with twist start is now available, as is a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system.

“Pathfinder’s always strong price value has increased substantially for 2008 with the new exterior design, the new refined interior and the long list of standard and available features and technology,” said Bosley. “Pathfinder continues to offer a unique balance of rugged performance and passenger comfort – authentic yet just a little bit indulgent.”

Other available interior features include an available DVD entertainment system, an upgraded Bose® audio system, power-adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seats with driver memory package, dual-zone automatic temperature control, rear air conditioning, power-adjustable pedals, leather-appointed 1st and 2nd row seats, power sunroof, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, first aid kit and wood grain trim.

All 2008 Pathfinders utilize the rugged “F-Alpha” platform used on the Titan and Armada. Standard on the 2008 Pathfinder S-V6, SE-V6, SE-V6 Off Road and LE-V6 models is an advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6, rated at 266 horsepower and 288 lb-ft torque.

This specially tuned engine, created for SUV and truck applications, is part of Nissan\'s 13-time Ward’s “Ten Best Engines” award-winning VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima, Altima, Murano and Quest.
The new 5.6-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 engine produces 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of torque, giving Pathfinder a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 pounds, versus V6-equipped Pathfinders’ 6,000-pound rating.

The V8 engine package is offered in two new Pathfinder models, SE-V8 and LE-V8, both available in 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations.
Complete 2008 Nissan Pathfinder pricing is available on the attached sheet.

In North America, Nissan operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissannews.com.
# # #

*Import Models as Defined by Ward’s Middle Sport/Utility Segmentation

Posted by Frank at 10:09 AM

BMW expands Spartanburg US plant

Annual capacity to be increased to over 200,000 vehicles

Currency risks will be reduced by this step

Munich -- The BMW Group sees further growth potential in the USA and will therefore expand its activities in its largest single market.

"We will expand the production capacity of our US plant in Spartanburg in the medium term from the current 140,000 to well over 200,000 vehicles per annum", stated Norbert Reithofer, the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG at the Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday in Munich.

"This is one element of our future strategy. Taking this step will help to lower our US dollar currency risk", he added. The adverse impact for the BMW Group from the weak US dollar and Japanese yen in the last financial year alone totalled euro 666 million.

The group currently manufactures the Z4 and X5 in the USA. The X6, as well as a possible successor to the X3, are to be built there in the future.

Earnings and sales volume outlook for 2007 reaffirmed

The BMW Group remains on course in terms of the targets it has set for the current financial year: "Adjusted for the gain on the Rolls-Royce exchangeable bond, we wish to improve on the record pre-tax profit result achieved in 2006", Reithofer reaffirmed. All three brands are also forecast to achieve new sales volume records. The BMW Group aims to increase sales volume for 2007 in the high single-digit percentage range to over 1.4 million vehicles. The aim remains to achieve an annual sales volume of approximately 1.6 million vehicles by 2010.

Performance in the first quarter 2007 was influenced by adverse currency factors, high raw material prices and high start-up costs for new models. The change in reported earnings was also affected by a significant "base effect" of euro 375 million, namely the one-off non-cash gain arising on the partial settlement of the exchangeable bond on shares in the British aero engine manufacturer, Rolls-Royce plc. that was recognised in the first quarter 2006.

Group revenues increased by 2.9% to euro 11,951 million (first quarter 2006: euro 11,618 million). The pre-tax profit fell by 34.3% to euro 852 million (first quarter 2006: euro 1,296 million). Excluding exceptional items, group earnings fell by only 11.7%. The first-quarter profit after tax, at euro 587 million, was 38.1% lower than the previous year's figure of euro 948 million. Despite model changes during the first three months of the year, the number of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand cars sold edged up by 0.1% to 333,276 units (first quarter 2006: 332,923 unit). The sales volume is expected to rise noticeably in the coming months thanks to new models.

BMW Group achieved record earnings in 2006

Despite the difficult conditions facing the worldwide automobile industry, the BMW Group can look back on a successful financial year 2006, achieving new high levels for sales volume, revenues and earnings. The number of vehicles sold increased by 3.5% to 1,373,970 units (2005: 1,327,992 units). All three brands headed the market in their own segments. Thanks to sales volume growth, a more favourable model sales mix and efficiency improvements, the BMW Group was again able to a large extent to offset the impact of adverse exchange rates and high raw material prices amounting to more than euro 1 billion.

The profit before tax rose by 25.5% to euro 4,124 million (2005: euro 3,287 million). This includes the one-time gain on the exchangeable bond referred to above. At an operating level (i.e. excluding the exceptional gain), the pre-tax profit improved by 3.0%. The net profit climbed by 28.4% to reach a new all-time high level of euro 2,874 million (2005: euro 2,239 million). Earnings per share rose to euro 4.38 (2005: euro 3.33) per share of common stock and to euro 4.40 (2005: euro 3.35) per share of preferred stock. Group revenues improved by 5.0% to euro 48,999 million (2005: euro 46,656 million) on the back of a strong sales volume performance and continued strong growth in financial services business.

Car sales volumes above previous year's level in virtually all markets

The USA continued to be the market with the largest sales volume for the BMW Group, with a total of 313,921 cars sold in 2006, up by 2.1% on a year-on-year basis. A total of 816,829 cars was sold in Europe, 1.7% more than in the previous year. Germany remained by far the most important European market. However, due partly to the restricted availability of the MINI, the sales volume on this market was down by 2.8% to 287,715 vehicles. The BMW Group recorded its largest growth rates in Asia. The sales volume there rose by 13.0% to 142,084 units. Japan is the largest single market for the BMW Group in this region, with the number of cars handed over to customers up by 5.6% to 62,115 units.

Sharp increase in dividend proposed

In the light of the high level of profitability and the positive outlook, the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board are proposing a significant dividend increase at the Annual General Meeting. BMW AG's unappropriated profit available for distribution, totalling euro 458 million, will be used to pay a dividend of euro 0.70 for each share of common stock (2005: euro 0.64) - an increase of 9.4% over the previous year - and euro 0.72 for each share of preferred stock (2005: euro 0.66) - an increase of 9.1% over the previous year. Including the share buy-back, BMW AG's shareholders will therefore participate in the success of the BMW Group by receiving an aggregate amount in excess of euro 700 million.

New authorisation for share buy-back proposed

The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board of BMW AG are also proposing a resolution at the Annual General Meeting to authorise the buy-back of up to 10% of the Company's share capital. The authorisation will again be valid for a period of 18 months. The buy-back authorisation passed in the previous year is valid until 15 November 2007. It has not yet been decided whether or to what extent that authorisation will be applied to buy back further shares.

BMW Welt set to open in mid-October

The BMW Group will open its new delivery centre, BMW Welt, on 17 October. The public will have the opportunity to visit this architecturally unique building for the first time on open days on 20 and 21 October.

Posted by Frank at 10:02 AM

BMW Group breaks own sales record in April

Munich --In April this year, the BMW Group delivered 118,456 automobiles to customers, which is 3.0% above the figure for the same month last year (114,996). The company has never sold as many cars in April before.

For the year to the end of April, volume sales achieved by the BMW Group rose by 0.8% to 451,683 automobiles (previous year: 447,944). Seen individually, the three Group brands, BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, also all recorded an increase in April and for the year to the end of April.

As already reported, after a restrained start to 2007 due to model cycle factors, the company is expecting dynamic growth over the next few months, and growth in the high single-digit range on a yearly basis. This will mainly be powered by the reworked models of the BMW 5 Series, the new BMW 1 Series three-door version, coming in May, the new generations of the BMW 3 Series Coupé and Cabrio and the new BMW X5.

Dr. Michael Ganal, member of the Board of BMW AG responsible for sales and marketing, said, "With every single one of our new models, we are proving the fact that combining the ultimate driving experience with reduced CO2 emissions is not a contradiction in terms. The outstanding popularity in the market of our new cars in particular proves this most impressively."

Sales of the BMW 3 Series Cabrio in April 2007 reached 5,189 units
(previous year: 2,562), which is 102.5% above last year's figure. The 3 Series Coupé stands at 6,819 vehicles sold, which is almost four times (+275.3%) the previous year's level (1,817). Sales of the BMW X5 have also rocketed, with an increase of 45.6% to 8,653 (previous year: 5,941). And the BMW 5 Series, with 18,254 units sold, has also exceeded the previous year's figure (18,096) by 0.9%.

Altogether, the BMW brand increased its sales in April 2007 slightly by 0.5% to 100,141 units (previous year: 99,622). This means that for the first time ever more than 100,000 BMW brand automobiles were delivered to customers in an April. For the year to the end of April, the number of deliveries to customers (382,945) also rose slightly by 0.9% to 386,273.

The new generation of MINI is now available in all the major markets worldwide. This caused sales to rise by 19.2% in April to 18,263 MINI sold
(previous year: 15,323). For the year to the end of April 2007, the world's most successful small car in the premium segment is 0.6% above last year, with 65,245 deliveries to customers (previous year: 64,841).

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars delivered 52 Phantoms in April (previous year: 51/+2.0%). In the first four months of 2007, 165 cars were handed over to customers (previous year: 158/+4.4%).

In the motorcycles segment sales figures rose in April by 1.0% to 12,320 units
(previous year: 12,200). For the year to the end of April, 13.2% more BMW vehicles (35,348 units) were sold than in the same period last year (31,237).

Posted by Frank at 10:00 AM

Ford's Euro sales rose 7.4% in April

* Ford of Europe sales increased by 7.4 percent in April to 143,700

* Year-to-date total vehicle sales 6.3 percent higher, at 622,828

COLOGNE – Ford of Europe's dynamic product range continued to draw customers in April, when the company sold 143,700 cars and commercial vehicles across its main 21 markets, an increase of 7.4 percent from the same month last year. Market share also improved by 0.3 percent to 8.24 percent.

The Focus and Fiesta remained Ford of Europe’s best-selling models in April, supported by the growing popularity of S-MAX, Car of the Year 2007, and Transit, International Van of the Year 2007.

There were strong monthly performances in markets across Europe. Britain increased sales by 13.3 percent to almost 32,000 units, and sales rose in Italy by 23.2 percent to 19,000 units. Russia continued its fast pace, where sales nearly doubled from last year to 15,570 units in April 2007.

The company’s solid showing in April contributed to a 6.3 percent sales improvement, to 622,828 units in the first four months of 2007. Market share was 0.2 percent higher, at 8.97 percent. “Our sales performance in April shows that we are building on the momentum of the first quarter," said Stephen Odell, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe. "Our products are in demand and we are focused on continuing growth with further new models, such as the Focus Coupé-Cabriolet, refreshed C-MAX and, of course, the all-new Mondeo. The Mondeo goes on sale in the summer, and the impressive press reaction so far confirms our view that we have another winner."

Ford's sales data includes both passenger cars and commercial vehicles from its 21 major European Sales Companies, including Russia and Turkey. Market share excludes Russia.

Posted by Frank at 9:54 AM

Ford launches eighth annual Chinese environmental grants

2007 Program Focuses on Environmental Protection at Local Communities

BEIJING — Ford Motor China launched the eighth annual Conservation & Environmental Grants, China Program (CEGC) today, with a focus on encouraging community environmental protection to raise environmental awareness in China.

Along with continuing programs in youth engagement and NGO training, this year’s CEGC will unveil new Community Environmental Grants for fostering environmental projects in local communities.

Mei-Wei Cheng, Chairman and CEO of Ford Motor ( China) Ltd., announced the set up of a new category for Community Environmental Grants. “CEGC hopes to provide grants to those creative projects focused on community environmental protection.” Mei-Wei Cheng said, “CEGC has been constantly evolving ever since its first year of our program, in order to not only stay in step with changing developments in environment protection and conservation, but also to help focus public attention on environment protection efforts in China.”

Starting its eighth year, the 2007 CEGC is adopting a new theme of “Creating Green and Harmonious Communities Together”. Raising community awareness and enthusiasm for environmental protection, as well as encouraging a community approach to conservation are major goals of the CEGC in 2007. Therefore, as a leading corporate citizen, Ford Motor China is establishing the Community Environmental Grants to support active participation and raise environmental awareness in local communities.

“Mobilizing and leveraging community participation is a great direction for the CEGC this year,” said Professor Qu Geping who's known as 'Father of Environmental Protection in China', “I believe the concept of community-centered environment protection is going to be a driving force for China's environment protection in the future years”

Carrying forward last year’s efforts to engage young people, the CEGC is encouraging university students to take part in community action projects. By working with and participating in real-life community projects, university students will be able to find practical applications for their environmental studies.

Specialized training for grassroots NGOs, which began during last year’s CEGC, will be expanded and diversified to meet the variety of environmental challenges facing local NGOs. Training sessions will be organized in China’s northeast, northwest, and southern regions, where local NGOs will share practical experiences and work with environmental experts, global NGO leaders, and business executives to create localized solutions for China’s unique environmental issues.

With RMB1.05 million in cash grants, this year’s CEGC is recognizing the efforts and achievements of organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions in three categories – “Natural Environment Protection”, “Environmental Education”, and “Community Environmental Grants”.

Beginning in 2000, the CEGC has been awarding cash grants totaling 7.05 million yuan to organizations and individuals to promote initiatives and participation in projects that improve local environments, protect natural heritage, and conserve natural resources in China. A total of 113 organizations and individuals have been awarded grants from the CEGC over the past seven years, with another 40 receiving honorable mention.

The CEGC has been recognized by Chinese government and experts as the most influential business-operated environmental program in China. Now with more than seven years of experience, the CEGC is turning its focus to community environmental protection and NGO supports.

Posted by Frank at 9:51 AM

GM Shows Crash-Avoiding Auto Technology in Miami May 17-18

Inverness Couple To Share Story Of Losing Child To Hypertherma As Part Of Never Leave Your Child Alone News Conference On Thursday

MIAMI – Automotive technology that can help avoid crashes; the crash-test dummies that take hits to help make cars safer; and satellite communications that can get help to a crash scene faster is coming to Miami on Thursday and Friday, May 17 and 18.

Miami is the third stop on the 10-city GM Continuous Safety Tour, which also is aimed at helping educate parents and caregivers about some of the non-traffic risks young children face in and around cars – especially the danger of heat stroke when left unattended in a vehicle.

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day in the parking lot of Marine Stadium in Key Biscayne, GM and Robert Bosch Corp. safety experts will demonstrate StabiliTrak electronic stability control in a GMC Acadia, among GM’s newest and safest vehicles.

The federal government recently announced that electronic stability control, which GM calls StabiliTrak, will be required on all new cars and light trucks by 2012. All GM retail cars and trucks sold in the U.S. will have the technology standard by the end of 2010, more than a year before the federal mandate.

GM engineers also will demonstrate Side Blind Zone Alert and Lane Departure Warning, two safety-enhancing technologies that can help drivers know when someone is in their blind spot or when they have drifted out of their lane. These technologies are being offered in the 2008 model Buick Lucerne, Cadillac STS and DTS.

Tour displays also feature:

* Crash-test dummies from the 1940s, when the Air Force tested early models by tossing them out of airplanes, to today’s Hybrid III dummies with integrated data collection abilities.

* OnStar’s Advanced Automatic Crash Notification, which provides information that can help reduce the times needed to notify emergency rescue, for EMS to reach the crash site, and for the crash victim to reach the hospital.

“GM is implementing automotive technology that’s been proved to help save lives,” said Bob Lange, GM executive director of Structure and Safety Integration. “We are committed to making our vehicles and roads safer for all passengers.”

Safe Kids Worldwide will be on hand both days to answer questions about vehicle safety and protecting children through age-appropriate restraints as well as demonstrating practical ways parents and caregivers can help prevent accidentally backing over a child.

A joint Safe Kids-GM news conference with the Florida Highway Patrol and the City of Miami Fire Rescue will be held Thursday to address the tragedy of children being left unattended in hot cars. Ed and Melanie Hynes of Inverness, whose 3-month-old daughter died from hyperthermia in a vehicle in 2005, will speak at the news conference.

One especially timely exhibit will demonstrate how the temperature rises drastically inside a closed vehicle – as much as 19 degrees in just 10 minutes. At least 35 Florida children – the second-most in the nation – have died from hyperthermia after being left in hot cars since 1998.

Posted by Frank at 9:46 AM

Hot Weather and Hot Cars Deadly Combination for Children

At least 35 Florida Children Dead from Hyperthermia Since 1998

MIAMI – At least 35 Florida children have died from heat stroke after being left alone or trapped in a closed vehicle in the last nine years.

“Every one of these tragedies is avoidable,” said Ignatius “Iggy” Carroll of the City of Miami Fire Rescue, who spoke at a news conference sponsored by Safe Kids Worldwide and General Motors. “We hope by getting the Never Leave Your Child Alone message out now, before the summer heat really sets in, that lives can be saved.”

The 35 Florida children killed by hyperthermia since 1998 – including three in 2006 – was No. 2 in the United States over that period. The 10.94 deaths per million children ranked No. 4 in the nation. The children killed ranged from 1 month to 3 years of age.

More than 320 children have died nationwide in the same period, most of them under 3 years of age, according to statistics compiled by Jan Null, Adjunct Professor of Meteorology at San Francisco State University.

A child’s physiology and hot temperatures can be a deadly combination in just minutes. Even the seemingly mild temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit can be dangerous. Miami’s average daily temperature is 75.9 degrees, according to CityRating.com.

“The inside of a vehicle can rise 19 degrees above the outside temperature in just 10 minutes,” said Wes Bender, Safe Kids Buckle Up regional manager for Safe Kids Worldwide, GM’s partner in child passenger safety programs. “After an hour, the temperature inside and outside temperature can differ by 45 degrees or more – even if the window is left open a crack.”

“Children are more susceptible to heat stroke than adults because their bodies warm at a rate three to five times faster than adult bodies do,” said Null. “Heat stroke occurs when the core body temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit. A core body temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit is considered lethal.”

The Florida fatalities have occurred in outside temperatures between 79 F and 110 F.

Safe Kids Worldwide and General Motors created the Never Leave Your Child Alone program to educate families on the dangers kids face in hot vehicles, said Beth Lowery, GM vice president of Environment, Energy and Safety Policy.

“A child is our most precious cargo and drivers must know that these deaths and injuries are entirely preventable,” she said. “Our heart goes out to every family that has lost a child or children in this way. No one ever thinks it would happen to them, and that is why this message cannot be repeated too often.”

Safe Kids suggests these tips for parents and caregivers:

* Teach children not to play in, on or around vehicles.
* Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even with the window slightly open.
* Always lock a vehicle’s doors and trunk – especially at home. Keep keys and remote entry devices out of children’s reach.
* Place something that you’ll need at your next stop – such as a purse, lunch, gym bag or briefcase – on the floor of the backseat where the child is sitting. This simple act could help prevent you from accidentally forgetting a child.

Posted by Frank at 9:46 AM

Volkswagen TSI wins top engine honor for the second consecutive time

Wolfsburg, Germany - Triumph at the highest level: the TSI engine, available in 103 kW and 125 kW versions TSI once more left the competition far behind at the "International Engine of the Year Awards 2007" in the individual category "1.0 to 1.4 litre."

The competition is seen as the most important of its kind worldwide. The jury for the award is made up of 61 top journalists from 29 countries.

With this new engine concept, Volkswagen has succeeded in reducing displacement to 1.4 litres through the use of petrol direct injection and an innovative dual charging concept via a compressor plus turbocharger.

This reduces consumption and emissions, but also noticeably increases driving enjoyment – thanks to the charging concept. The TSI engines are available in the Golf, Touran, Jetta and Golf Plus. The new Golf estate will be equipped with the TSI technology as of June.

The Golf can be used as an example for the details of the strong performance and low consumption figures of the TSI engines: in the TSI with 103 kW / 140 bhp it needs 8.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h, has a top speed of 205 km/h and still only has an average consumption of 7.1 litres of fuel. The extra urban figures are just 5.7 litres for 100 kilometres. The results for the 125 kW / 170 bhp Golf GT with TSI fitted are similarly positive: 7.9 seconds to reach a sprint speed of 100 km/h, 220 km/h is the top speed, 7.3 litres average consumption. Both Golf versions can – as with all TSI models on the market – also be combined with the dual clutch gearbox DSG.

TSI and DSG are for Volkswagen the elementary components of a broad drive offensive. The next high-end assemblies in this offensive are already in the last phases of development and will be available on the market before the end of the year: a TSI with 90 kW / 122 bhp and the first seven-gear DSG anywhere in the world for the compact and mid-range class.

Posted by Frank at 9:39 AM

Six gold fleet awards for Volkswagen Group brands

VOLKSWAGEN MODELS VOTED “COMPANY CARS OF THE YEAR”

Wolfsburg, Germany - With six first places, the Volkswagen Group was the most successful company in “Company Cars of the Year 2007”, an event organized by the specialist journal “Firmenauto” and DEKRA, the German motor vehicle inspection association.

The best fleet models in a total of nine categories were honored in an overall ranking and an importers ranking. The Volkswagen Group with its Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Skoda and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brands not only won six gold awards, but was also ranked second four times and took four third places.

In the run-up to the award ceremony in Bad Gögging, 150 fleet managers tested 70 different models over a two-day period. This involved more than 1,900 test drives over some 50,000 kilometers.

In the compact class, the testers voted the new Golf Variant the winner, while the Touran Eco Fuel took first place in the alternative powertrain category. The Audi Q7 and A8 models convinced the jury in the SUV and top class categories respectively. Skoda won the testers’ vote in the small car category and the van category with the Fabia and the Roomster. The Skoda Fabia even took first place in both the overall ranking and the importers ranking.

"Apart from drive behavior and comfort, efficiency played an important role in the judging. With this achievement, the Volkswagen brands have impressively confirmed the outstanding position of our models in the fleet business," Dr. Stefan Brungs, Head Volkswagen Group Fleet International, commented.

Volkswagen AG - Volkswagen Group Fleet International
The Volkswagen Group offers a unique spectrum of products and services in the fields of key account and fleet management. Together, the brands Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offer vehicles in all classes from subcompact to luxury class and transporters. At the same time, Volkswagen Leasing can offer all the financial services relevant to fleet customers from insurance and full-service leasing to complete fleet management.

Posted by Frank at 9:38 AM

Volkswagen Group Supplier Awards 2007 presented in Majorca

Wolfsburg, Germany - The 25 best suppliers of the Volkswagen Group were presented with the “Volkswagen Group Award” in Majorca yesterday evening.

The winners received their awards from Professor Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, and Francisco J. Garcia Sanz, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG with responsibility for “Procurement”.

"Last year, the Volkswagen Group delivered more vehicles to all major markets worldwide than ever before. This success reflects the efforts we jointly made with our partners last year," said Dr. Winterkorn, welcoming 250 invited guests. "Our thanks go to all representatives of our award winners present here this evening, and in particular to all employees at sites around the world for their extraordinary dedication," Winterkorn added.

At the same time, he announced the further expansion of successful cooperation in future: "Shoulder to shoulder with our partners, we will bring Volkswagen even further forward as regards content and technology. We will take our orientation from the highest quality benchmarks, excellent products and, above all, from the wishes of our customers," Winterkorn said.

"For us, cooperation based on partnership means developing solutions together with our partners and giving special support to those suppliers who show a strong commitment," Francisco J. Garcia Sanz, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, stressed in the presence of representatives from the award winning suppliers. He emphasized that companies bringing concrete solutions to support Volkswagen in its efforts to enhance competitiveness could simultaneously further strengthen, or even expand, their position as a business partner for Volkswagen.

Since October 2005, Volkswagen has been developing new approaches to optimize costs and improve quality in cooperation with suppliers. Millions have so far been saved through joint optimization efforts at so-called "suppliers conventions". At the beginning of 2006, Volkswagen invited suppliers to a "Suppliers Quality Forum" aimed at achieving a sustained reduction in production process failures. The objective of the "Innovation Forum" is to jointly integrate forward-looking fields of innovation in the production process at Volkswagen.

The Group Award is presented in five categories which play a crucial role in relations with suppliers: excellence in development, product quality, logistics, environmental awareness and entrepreneurial performance.

The excellence in development category reflects attributes such as innovative capabilities, technical equipment and the quality of cooperation. Product quality includes an assessment of production site quality performance with regard to series-production supplies. In the logistics category, criteria focus on compliance with delivery deadlines and quantities, delivery flexibility and communication behaviour. The award for environmental awareness is based on compliance with the Volkswagen criteria for sustainable environmental management and vehicle-related environmental innovation competence. Exceptional entrepreneurial performance is measured by flexibility with respect to series start-ups and innovation capabilities in terms of cost optimization and process improvements.

The 25 winners of the "Volkswagen Group Award 2007" and their winning sites are listed below:

1st category: Excellence in development

Visteon Deutschland GmbH, Berlin / D
Georg Fischer AG, Mettmann / D
DENSO AUTOMOTIVE Deutschland GmbH, Eching / D
Cadence Innovation k.s., Liberec / Czech Republic
ETO Magnetic KG, Stockach / D

2nd category: Logistics

Aisin AW Co. Ltd., Okazaki / Japan
MB Abrera, Barcelona / Spain
Aksys Insonit S.A., Barcelona / Spain
SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT INTERNATIONAL, Horovice / Czech Republic
Robert Bosch Elektronik GmbH, Salzgitter / D

3rd category: Product quality

Grupo Antolin Navarra S.A., Arazur / Spain
Car Trim GmbH, Plauen / D
Ronal Ibérica, S.A.U., Teruel / Spain
GKN Driveline Trier GmbH, Trier / D
Barum Continental spol. s.r.o., Otrokovice / Czech Republic

4th category: Environmental awareness

MS Design Auto Tuning GmbH, Roppen / D

5th category: Entrepreneurial performance

Fredenhagen GmbH & Co. KG, Offenbach / D
Werkzeugbau Fahrzeuge Marke Volkswagen Pkw, Wolfsburg / D
Grob-Werke GmbH & Co. KG, Mindelheim / D
BP/Castrol, Hamburg / D
POSCO, Kwangyang / South Korea
Veritas AG, Donakilitti / Hungary
Maflow S.p.A., Tychy / Poland
AUTOLIV B.V. & Co. KG, Braunschweig / D
Suzhou Sonavox Electronics Co. Ltd., Ayuanhe Township / China

Posted by Frank at 9:37 AM

Ray Catena Continues Mercedes-Benz Momentum With New Union Dealership

May 18 Grand Opening to benefit Bright Steps Forward

MONTVALE, N.J. -- Ray Catena, president of Edison- based Ray Catena Motors will host the grand opening of his second Mercedes- Benz dealership, Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Union on Friday, May 18 in Union, NJ.

A family business that began with a used car lot in 1959, Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz has evolved into a sales leader within the Mercedes-Benz USA's (MBUSA) franchise network.

"Our main belief when we started out was to do one thing and do it completely -- take care of the customer," says Catena. "The opening of our new facility in Union will allow us to elevate even higher the experience customers have with us."

The grand opening event, which is open to the public, will be held from 5:00-9:00 PM and will include tours of the innovative showroom and service facility that showcases the latest models in the Mercedes-Benz product line-up.

At the grand opening event, Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Union will toast to a successful future with their customers and guests, while raising vital funds for "Bright Steps Forward," an organization that facilitates intensive pediatric therapy for financially disadvantaged children.

Guests who make contributions of $100 or more to "Bright Steps Forward" will be entered into a drawing for a 27-month lease of a new Mercedes-Benz R350, with the winner drawn live at the event. A silent auction will also be held to benefit this life-changing charity.

"Ray Catena has been a long standing member of the Mercedes-Benz dealer network and is a crucial part of our success as a brand in the competitive Tri-State market," said Joseph Kurp, general manager of Mercedes-Benz USA's northeast region. "By establishing a new, conveniently situated Mercedes-Benz dealership in Union, NJ, Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Union is ensuring a high- level of service for their customers."

More information on the Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Union grand opening is available at http://www.raycatenagrandopening.com/.

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States. In 2006, MBUSA achieved an all-time sales record of 248,080 new vehicles, setting the highest sales volume ever in its history and achieving 13 consecutive years of sales growth. MBUSA's Northeast Regional office, based in Parsippany, NJ, is responsible for advertising, sales and marketing initiatives for the 94 Mercedes-Benz dealers located in the Northeast. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found on the Internet at http://www.mbusa.com/ and http://www.maybachusa.com/.

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

Posted by Frank at 3:02 AM

Nissan Decherd Plant Celebrates 10 Years of Production

More than 3.8 Million Engines Produced at Nissan's Largest Powertrain Facility

DECHERD, Tenn. -- Nissan North America's (NNA) powertrain assembly plant in Decherd, Tenn., celebrated its 10th year of production today. State and local officials and Nissan executives joined NNA- Decherd employees to mark a decade of growth and production success.

Since starting production on May 16, 1997, the plant has grown to become the largest engine plant in Nissan's global production network. Today, 1,200 Nissan employees build 4-, 6- and 8-cylinder engines for all the Nissan and Infiniti vehicles built in the U.S. A small number of truck engines are also exported to Nissan's manufacturing plant in Barcelona, Spain.

The Decherd Plant has the capacity to produce 950,000 engines and 1.1 million crankshaft forgings annually. Beginning in the spring of 2008, the plant will add the production of cylinder block castings.

"Throughout its 10-year history, the Decherd Plant has proven that it's a world-class operation capable of producing award-winning products," said Bill Krueger, NNA senior vice president of Manufacturing, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management for the Americas. "The Decherd team has good reason to be proud of their accomplishments today. The growth of this plant has been based on a solid reputation for high quality work and proven capabilities. As we celebrate a history of achievement, we also look forward to what the future will bring as we compete in the global marketplace."

Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen commended the Decherd employees and the plant's contributions to Tennessee: "This plant not only makes engines, but it is itself an economic engine in our state's economy. Nissan and its employees in Decherd and throughout the state have been a driving force in the development of Tennessee's automotive sector. I congratulate the entire Decherd team on 10 years of consistent growth."

To date, NNA-Decherd has built more than 3.8 million engines. The plant is widely recognized for its award-winning 3.5-liter VQ V6 engine -- the only engine named to Ward's "10 Best Engines" since the list's inception 13 years ago. The 1.2 million-square-foot plant is located on 998 acres in Decherd and represents a capital investment of approximately $683 million.

A History of Growth

Plans to build the original plant were announced on Jan. 18, 1991. Construction on the $30 million, 100,000-square-foot plant began in March 1995.

Before the engine plant opened for business, Nissan officials announced the plant would be expanded to add transaxle production. In February 1995, the company announced an $80 million investment to add 137,000 square feet to the original facility.

Production began with 200 employees on May 16, 1997. The plant's first product was a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine for the Nissan Altima, which was -- and still is -- assembled at the vehicle assembly plant in Smyrna, Tenn., about 90 miles northwest of Decherd. Transaxle production followed in April 1998 to support engine and transaxle production.

On July 20, 2000, the plant was expanded again to add 500,000 square feet to introduce machining and assembly for the production of V6 and V8 engines. The steady course of growth continued with a $48 million investment to add forging operations. Production volumes in Decherd increased with the addition of Nissan's second U.S. vehicle assembly plant, in Canton, Miss., in May 2003.

At the ceremony to mark the start of crankshaft forging production on Sept. 6, 2006, Nissan announced a $34.7 million addition to begin cylinder block casting at the Decherd Plant. Construction continues on the casting facility, and production will begin in the spring of 2008.

Source: Nissan North America

Posted by Frank at 2:47 AM

Parents, Don't Be Pushovers When It Comes to Preventing Underage Drinking

ST. LOUIS -- These spring-into-summer months mean special occasions like prom and graduation and a time when some parents may feel the urge to relax the rules for their teens -- treating them to party clothes, allowing later curfews, or providing alcohol for teen parties. While the clothes splurge or later curfew is acceptable, mixing alcohol and teens never is.

According to a recent survey conducted by Data Development Worldwide for Anheuser-Busch, 98 percent of parents agree it is not okay to purchase alcohol for teen parties or gatherings.

A new ad developed by Anheuser-Busch provides an important reminder to parents and other adults, declaring "Don't be a pushover. Be a parent. Prevent. Don't Provide alcohol to minors". The ad, which will run May 17 in USA Today, is endorsed by The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI), the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI).

"We represent many parents -- fathers, especially -- who are looking for guidance when it comes to talking with their teens about important life decisions," said Roland Warren, NFI president. "We appreciate this opportunity to send a strong message against underage drinking with Anheuser- Busch."

The brewer's Prevent. Don't Provide campaign recognizes that while parents' positions may not always be popular, not allowing minors to drink alcohol or refusing to buy it for them and their friends should not be negotiable. Unfortunately, some parents say "yes" when faced with this situation. Research has found that two-thirds of teens who drink say they get alcohol from their parents or other adults.

John Kaestner, vice president of Consumer Affairs, Anheuser-Busch, emphasizes, "Teens know that underage drinking is illegal, but they may try to push the boundaries. That's where our job as parents comes in, and it's imperative that we communicate the difference between right and wrong."

Fire Chief James Harmes, IAFC president, adds, "As first responders, we see the tragedies that can occur because of underage drinking, so we are proud to lend our support to this initiative to help keep our young people safe."

Fortunately, the majority of teens today are making responsible decisions and demonstrating they know right from wrong, especially when it comes to underage drinking. According to the federal government's 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 83 percent of 12-17 year-olds do not drink. And an annual survey of teens conducted by the Roper Youth Report for more than a decade reveals the majority of teens (74 percent), ages 13 to 17, have consistently cited their parents as the No. 1 influence on their decisions to drink or not.

"The Junior Leagues have always been committed to improving communities and the welfare of children and families. Therefore, we are so pleased to be associated with this important effort that helps empower parents to keep their children healthy and safe," said Sandi Kemmish, AJLI President.

In addition to a print ad, the Prevent. Don't Provide campaign includes a television commercial, radio ads, point-of-sale reminders for convenience and grocery stores, and a bookmark and web site for parents that offer safe celebration tips.

National Fatherhood Initiative's ( http://www.fatherhood.org/ ) mission is to improve the well being of children by increasing the proportion of children growing up with involved, responsible, and committed fathers.

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) ( http://www.iafc.org/ ) is a network of more than 12,000 chief fire and emergency officers. IAFC's mission is to provide leadership to career and volunteer chiefs, chief fire officers and managers of emergency service organizations.

The Association of Junior Leagues International Inc. (AJLI) ( http://www.ajli.org/ ) is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

More information about the company's responsibility efforts is available at http://www.beeresponsible.com/ .

Source: Anheuser-Busch

Posted by Frank at 2:41 AM

AAA Chicago: May Fuel Prices at Record High

AURORA, Ill. -- Statewide averages for the price of gasoline in Illinois and northern Indiana have set record high prices in the past month.

AAA Chicago's most recent Fuel Gauge Report estimates that in Illinois, regular unleaded gasoline has increased 39 cents during the past month, forecasting an average cost of $3.32 per gallon for the month of May, which is 39 cents higher per gallon from last year.

"Demand for fuel is at an all-time high, which is contributing to the record gas prices," says Nicole Niemi, AAA Chicago's spokesperson.

In northern Indiana, gas prices average $3.37, which is up 48 cents from April and up 46 cents from May 2006.

-- In Cook County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.50, which is up 45 cents compared to last month and 46 cents higher
than last year's price-per-gallon.
-- In DuPage County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.38 per gallon, which is a 43-cent increase from April and 45 cents
higher than last year.
-- In Kane County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.38 per gallon, which is 45 cents higher compared to last month and
45 cents higher than May 2006's price.
-- In Lake County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.37 per gallon, which is 43 cents higher than last month and up by 45
cents compared to this time last year.
-- In McHenry County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.37 per gallon, which is up 41 cents from April's average and 43
cents higher than May 2006's price.
-- In Will County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.39 per gallon, which is 46 cents higher compared to last month and
45 cents higher compared to last year.
-- In Champaign County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline
averages $3.20 per gallon, an increase of 37 cents from April and an
increase of 26 cents from last year.
-- In McLean County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.21 per gallon, which is 36 cents higher than last month and 32 cents
higher than last year.
-- In Peoria County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.29 per gallon, which is a 42-cent increase compared to last month
and a 33-cent increase from April 2006.
-- In Sangamon County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.24 per gallon, which is 46 cents higher than last month and 29 cents
higher than last year.
-- In Winnebago County, Ill., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline
averages $3.26 per gallon, an increase of 40 cents from April and an
increase of 31 cents from May 2006.
-- In Allen County, Ind., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.19 per gallon, which is an increase of 35 cents from last month and
29 cents higher than May 2006's price.
-- In Lake County, Ind., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.36 per gallon, a 48-cent increase from April's average and a 43-cent
increase from a year ago.
-- In Porter County, Ind., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline averages
$3.37 per gallon, which is 50 cents higher than last month and 44 cents
higher than last year.
-- In St. Joseph County, Ind., self-serve regular unleaded gasoline
averages $3.18 per gallon, which is 37 cents higher compared to last
month and 26 cents higher compared to last year.

Source: AAA Chicago

Posted by Frank at 2:37 AM

Tenneco Opens China Research and Development Center

SHANGHAI, China -- Tenneco Inc.today announced the grand opening of its first research and development center in China.

Tenneco's engineering center -- a joint venture between Shanghai Tractor and Engine Company (STEC), a subsidiary of Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. (SAIC) -- will focus on emission control product design and development for Tenneco's growing OE and aftermarket businesses in China and the Asia-Pacific region.

The center will deliver leading-edge emission control testing capabilities -- including acoustic tuning; noise, vibration and harshness/structural analysis; durability testing; engine vibration durability and diesel aftertreatment design -- setting a new standard for emission control engineering centers throughout the region.

"Our new engineering center enables us to locally support our customers with technical expertise, engineering and testing while saving time and costs and strengthening communications," said Gregg Sherrill, Tenneco chairman and CEO. "Additionally, we'll be able to localize global programs more efficiently and meet our customers' needs for a greater range of products and technologies."

The 5,800-square meter center, located adjacent to the company's Shanghai joint venture emission control manufacturing facility, is the first of a three-phase project. The initial phase of the center provides key testing and development capabilities critical to aftertreatment engineering. Phases two and three, scheduled for completion by 2010, will provide additional test labs and emission quality capabilities.

Staffing for the new emission control engineering center includes 23 employees currently. "Led by our highly-trained engineers, the center is our premiere R&D facility in Asia and represents our commitment to the China market," said Sherrill. "Tenneco is well-positioned to take advantage of the growth opportunities in China and the Asia Pacific region as emissions standards tighten and OEMs work to achieve better fuel economy."

Tenneco established its first joint venture in China in 1995 and, according to company estimates, is China's number one supplier of exhaust systems to original equipment manufacturers. The company operates five majority-owned joint ventures in China including emission control operations in Shanghai, Dalian (two joint ventures with JIT facilities in Changchun) and Chongqing. Tenneco's ride control joint venture is in Beijing and its wholly-owned elastomer operation is in Suzhou. Volkswagen (SVW), General Motors (SGM), Chery, PSA (DPCA), Daimler Chrysler (Beijing Jeep), Suzuki, Nissan, Audi (FAW-VW) and Ford are among the company's OE customers.

Tenneco is a $4.7 billion manufacturing company with headquarters in Lake Forest, Illinois and approximately 19,000 employees worldwide. Tenneco is one of the world's largest designers, manufacturers and marketers of emission control and ride control products and systems for the automotive original equipment market and the aftermarket. Tenneco markets its products principally under the Monroe(R), Walker(R), Gillet(TM) and Clevite(R)Elastomer brand names.

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations of the company (including its subsidiaries). Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, the company's plans, actions and actual results could differ materially. Among the factors that could cause these plans, actions and results to differ materially from current expectations are: (i) changes in automobile manufacturers' production rates and their actual and forecasted requirements for the company's products; (ii) the overall highly competitive nature of the automobile parts industry; (iii) the cyclical nature of automobile production and sales of commercial vehicles; and (iv) the company's ability to develop and profitably commercialize new products and technologies, and the acceptance of such new products and technologies by the company's customers. The company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release.

Source: Tenneco Inc.

Posted by Frank at 2:36 AM

Ford Racing Offers Race Fans a Chance to Win Free Tickets to Ford Championship Weekend

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Race fans know that it takes more than just a great driver to win races - it takes an entire team of dedicated people to reach Victory Lane.

Now, race fans can build their own winning team by participating in Ford Racing's "Build It & Win Shop Tour" Sweepstakes, which takes place May 23-25 in the Charlotte metropolitan area.

Every fan who completes the Tour can enter to win free tickets to Ford Championship Weekend for all three NASCAR season finale races at Homestead- Miami Speedway November 16-18, plus a $1,000 travel voucher.

To enter the sweepstakes, fans must visit the team shops of Roush Fenway Racing, Wood Brothers/JTG Racing and Robert Yates Racing and the Ford Racing display at Concord Mills Mall to collect stamps for their team.

Once race fans have a stamp from all four locations, they must fill out a registration form and drop off the completed card at their final stop. Winners of the sweepstakes will be notified by May 31, 2007.

While visiting race shops and the Concord Mills display, fans will also get a chance to see Ford's exciting lineup of new cars and trucks.

Both Roush Fenway Racing and Robert Yates Racing are planning driver autograph sessions to coincide with Ford Racing's "Build It & Win Shop Tour." Visit www.fordracing.com for updated driver appearance schedules.

Times and locations:

Roush Fenway Racing
4600 Roush Place
Concord, N.C. 28027
8 a.m.-5 p.m., May 23-25

Wood Brothers/JTG Racing
7201 Caldwell Road
Harrisburg, N.C. 28075
8 a.m.-5 p.m., May 23-25

Robert Yates Racing
112 Byers Creek Road
Mooresville, N.C. 28117
7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., May 23-25

Concord Mills Mall
8111 Concord Mills Blvd.
Concord, N.C. 28027
10 a.m.-6 p.m., May 23-25
(East end of mall, near Bass Pro Shop)

For more information on the Tour, race fans can visit www.fordracingevents.com.

Web site: http://www.fordracing.com
http://www.fordracingevents.com

Source: Ford

Posted by Frank at 2:34 AM

Bosch Endows Engineering Chair at Stanford University

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. -- Bosch has established an endowment chair at University, known as the Robert Bosch Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering. To fund the endowment, the Bosch Board of Management has approved $3 million to be paid over the next three to five years.

The Bosch endowment to Stanford will fund new research programs, innovative teaching ventures as well as encourage academic entrepreneurship throughout the mechanical engineering department.

"With a shared commitment to education, innovation entrepreneurship and the development of technologies that make our customers' lives more efficient, safer and comfortable, Bosch is proud to partner with Stanford University and support future mechanical engineering activities," said Peter Marks, chairman, president and CEO of Robert Bosch LLC.

Bosch's commitment to innovation in the field of engineering is evident by its Research and Technology Center (RTC) in Palo Alto, California. The Bosch RTC has worked with Stanford graduate students on a number of different technologies including homogenous charge compression ignition engines (HCCI), an improved way of engine combustion that promises improvements in efficiency together with near zero emissions of certain smog-producing pollutants.

The Bosch Group is a leading global manufacturer of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology. In fiscal 2006, approximately 260,000 associates generated sales of 43.7 billion euros, or $54.9 billion. Set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as "Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering," the Bosch Group today comprises a manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service network of approximately 280 subsidiaries and more than 12,000 service centers in over 140 countries.

In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, thermo-technology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs 24,750 associates in more than 80 primary and 20 associated facilities throughout the region with reported sales of $8.8 billion in 2006. For more information on the company, visit www.bosch.us.

Source: Robert Bosch LLC

Posted by Frank at 2:34 AM

New Seating Available for Spectators at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

INDIANAPOLIS -- A new era in seating comfort at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway begins today with the introduction of a revolutionary, patent-pending seating system. The historic Brickyard will offer the exclusive sale of one of the most comfortable seating devices ever to hit the market.

Seating Ergonomic Efficient Technology (SEET) is the creation of seasoned entrepreneur Pete Prust. Identifying a need for more comfortable seating in the market, Prust set out to design the ultimate in spectator comfort.

Packaged in a convenient, lightweight tote, The SEET is composed of a proprietary EVA/rubber, closed-cell compound, which provides a virtually waterproof cushion. The unique technology ensures the cushion will not collapse under pressure while simultaneously allowing air to flow between the spectator and the grandstand bench, reducing the possibility of perspiration and promoting increased blood flow. The result is a more pleasurable viewing experience for the race fan.

Brayton Marketing Group LLC is the auto racing marketing specialist for The SEET and is pleased to be involved in the project.

Co-owner Todd Brayton comments, "We are honored to be a part of the launch of this brand new product. We also look forward to the comfort of race fans around the world."

The SEET will be sold exclusively at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway gift shops. Additional information is available at http://www.theseet.com/.

About The SEET:

The Seating Ergonomic Efficient Technology is an advanced seating system designed to provide spectators around the world with the utmost in viewing comfort. The unique, patent-pending design offers cooler seating in warm weather and warmer seating in cooler months, while simultaneously ensuring enhanced blood flow for an overall more comfortable seating experience. The SEET is available exclusively at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. For more information, please visit http://www.theseet.com/.

Source: The SEET

Posted by Frank at 2:32 AM

GM Chairman & CEO Rick Wagoner to be Keynote Speaker at Inforum Annual Meeting

DETROIT -- Inforum, Michigan's premier organization for business women, presents keynote speaker Rick Wagoner, General Motors Corporation chairman and chief executive officer, at the organization's Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 17.

As one of the most important automotive leaders of our time, Wagoner will share his views about current trends redefining the global auto business, the future of General Motors, and the critical importance of leadership development for Michigan's future.

Inforum's 2007-08 board of directors and officers also will be inducted at the Annual Meeting. The officers are:

* Chair: Karla Hall, manager, corporate contributions, DTE Energy and vice
president, DTE Energy Foundation;
* Chair Elect: Vivian Rogers Pickard, director of corporate relations,
General Motors Corporation;
* Vice Chair: Maria Leonhauser, president and co-owner, Franco Public
Relations Group;
* Secretary: Sarah Clarkson, attorney and partner, Biber, O'Toole, Fowler
& Clarkson; and
* Treasurer: Mary Lehmann, vice president and treasurer, ArvinMeritor.

Date: Thursday, May 17, 2007

Time: 11:30 a.m. Networking/Registration; 12 p.m. Lunch & program

Location: Detroit Marriott, Renaissance Center, Columbus Ballroom

Tickets for this luncheon event: Members $50; non-members $60. To register, go to http://www.inforummichigan.org/ or call 877.633.3500.

About Inforum

Inforum is one of the largest and most prestigious business forums in the nation, with more than 2,200 members from a broad cross-section of Michigan's business community. Inforum provides opportunities for business women to forge alliances, discuss vital civic and business issues and make connections that help accelerate careers. The organization, which was founded as the Women's Economic Club in 1962 in Detroit, has affiliates in Grand Rapids and Lansing. The mission of Inforum is to strengthen the business environment by creating opportunities for women to lead and succeed.

Source: Inforum

Posted by Frank at 2:30 AM

Continental Automotive Systems to Support Carnegie Mellon in 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Continental Automotive Systems is the latest sponsor to join Carnegie Mellon University's Tartan Racing, a team that will enter a driverless Chevy Tahoe in the $2 million DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) Urban Challenge scheduled for November 3, 2007.

Continental is providing driver assistance technologies, including advanced sensors, plus its General brand Grabber UHP tires with Conti*Seal, and has embedded an engineer who is working full-time with the Pittsburgh- based team to help the vehicle to compete in the race.

The race consists of traveling 60 miles in a mock urban setting without a driver or the use of remote controls in less than six hours. Vehicles must follow the rules of the road, negotiate intersections, merge into traffic, and avoid obstacles, with only computers at the wheel.

"We are thrilled to be part of the Tartan Racing team," said Dean McConnell, director, Occupant Safety and Driver Assistance Systems, Continental Automotive Systems, North America. "This experience will help further advance our active safety and other intelligent technologies for use in passenger cars and trucks of the future."

The Urban Challenge is designed to develop autonomous vehicles that will someday perform hazardous tasks with limited human involvement. Ultimately, the experimental technology developed for the Challenge could yield new devices that aid human drivers and improve highway safety.

"Continental brings to the team depth of knowledge, passion and appreciation for true innovation in developing smarter, more efficient vehicles," said William "Red" Whittaker, Fredkin research professor at Carnegie Mellon's Robotics Institute and team leader for Tartan Racing.

Since there are no human drivers in the Urban Challenge, the driverless cars must "see" roads and other vehicles with cameras, lasers, radar, sensors and other smart car technologies. Planning software continuously determines where and how to drive, how to avoid trouble and how to quickly reach a destination.

The Urban Challenge will be at an as-yet undisclosed site somewhere in the western United States. It will award a $2 million prize to the team whose vehicle completes the course the fastest in less than six hours, with $500,000 and $250,000 prizes going to the second- and third-place finishers.

Other sponsors of the Tartan Racing team include General Motors, Caterpillar, Google and Intel, among others.

The Continental Corporation is a leading automotive supplier of brake systems, chassis components, vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers. In 2006 the corporation realized sales of EUR14.9 billion. It has a worldwide workforce of around 87,000.

As a worldwide leading technology partner to the automotive industry, the Automotive Systems Division of Continental AG integrates extensive know-how and uncompromising quality in the fields of driving safety, embedded telematics and hands-free communication systems, powertrain and comfort. In 2006 the division achieved sales of approx. EUR6 billion with a workforce of more than 30,000. Continental Automotive Systems develops and produces electronic and hydraulic brake, stability and chassis control systems, electronic air suspension systems, sensors, engine management and transmission control systems, hybrid drives, cooling fan modules, body and security electronics and also is the industry leader of embedded telematics and communication systems in vehicles.

For additional information, visit Tartan Racing on the Web at www.tartanracing.org

For additional information regarding the Urban Challenge, visit www.darpa.mil/grandchallenge

Source: Continental Automotive Systems

Posted by Frank at 2:29 AM

BorgWarner Louis Schwitzer Award Candidates Announced

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The Indiana Section of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) today announced four candidates for the 41st annual BorgWarner Louis Schwitzer Award.

The award, presented to engineers by a committee of engineers, honors early racing pioneer Louis Schwitzer, and acknowledges individuals with the courage and passion to explore and develop new concepts in racing technology.

This year's winner is scheduled to be announced at a news conference at the Indianapolis World Complex Media Center at 10 a.m., May 18, 2007. The following technologies are nominees for this year's award:

-- Delphi Accident Data Recorder 3
-- Ethanol Racing Fuel
-- Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 Tire
-- Honda H17R Engine

BorgWarner sponsors this prestigious $10,000 award, which is presented by the Indiana Section of SAE. SAE International also supports the Louis Schwitzer Award by providing a $1,000 scholarship to the engineering school of the winner's choice, and doubles the amount if the winner was a past Formula SAE participant. The winner's name will be added to a permanent trophy on display at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

Auburn Hills, Michigan-based BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE:BWA) is a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide. The FORTUNE 500 company operates manufacturing and technical facilities in 64 locations in 17 countries. Customers include VW/Audi, DaimlerChrysler, Ford, General Motors, Toyota, Renault/Nissan, Hyundai/Kia, Honda, BMW, Caterpillar, Navistar International, and Peugeot. The Internet address for BorgWarner is: http://www.borgwarner.com/.

Source: BorgWarner Inc.

Posted by Frank at 2:28 AM

Former Senior GM Executive Joins Ricardo in Key U.S. Role

A significant strengthening of the senior management team of Ricardo plc was announced today with the appointment of Dean Harlow as President of the company's North American subsidiary, Ricardo, Inc.

VAN BUREN TWP. -- Dean Harlow will bring considerable automotive industry experience to his new role with Ricardo. Before founding his own successful automotive consulting business in 2006, he spent over 20 years with General Motors in a variety of capacities, including engineering, finance, planning and corporate / business development (mergers and acquisitions, strategic alliances, joint ventures and technology licenses).

His most recent GM position was as director, global planning for GM Powertrain, where amongst other achievements he led GM's first global hybrid program and negotiated a major transmission deal with Ford. Prior to GM Powertrain, he served as executive-in-charge of new business development for GM's corporate eCommerce Group, where he developed and implemented strategic alliances with AOL, NetZero, Kelly Blue Book and Edmunds.

Harlow has significant experience in Asian markets having lived in Beijing and Shanghai, China from 1996 to 2000 and serving as GM China vice president of new business development, chief technology officer and planning director. While there, he led a number of major strategic initiatives that contributed to GM's leadership in that market including an innovative small car entry strategy and putting GM into the mini-vehicle business with Wuling Automotive.

Dean Harlow was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from GMI (now Kettering University) and also a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan. Harlow takes over from Jeremy Holt as President of Ricardo, Inc. with immediate effect and will report directly to Dave Shemmans, chief executive officer of Ricardo plc.

Commenting on this key senior management appointment, Dave Shemmans said: "The North American market is of crucial importance to Ricardo plc and it is essential therefore that we can attract the very best talent to the senior team of our U.S. subsidiary, Ricardo, Inc. Dean Harlow brings with him a wealth of international auto industry experience in both North America and Asia, together with a deep knowledge of the latest developments in powertrain technology and the type of entrepreneurial spirit capable of taking Ricardo to the next level in this key market. I am confident that he will rise to the challenge of delivering our strategic business objectives for the America's, while improving the return to Ricardo's shareholders."

Ricardo plc: With technical centers in the UK, USA, Germany and the Czech Republic, and offices in Shanghai and Tokyo, Ricardo is a leading independent technology provider and strategic consultant to the world's automotive industries. The company's engineering expertise ranges from vehicle systems integration, controls, electronics and software development, to the latest driveline and transmission systems and gasoline, diesel, hybrid and fuel cell powertrain technologies. Its customers include the world's major vehicle, engine and transmission manufacturers, tier 1 suppliers and leading motorsport teams. Ricardo is committed to excellence and industry leadership in people, technology and knowledge; approximately 70 percent of its employees are highly qualified multi-disciplined professional engineers and technicians. A public company, Ricardo plc posted sales of 173 million pounds in financial year 2006 and is a constituent of the FTSE techMark 100 index - a group of innovative technology companies listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Source: Ricardo

Posted by Frank at 2:26 AM

Japanese Report Record Trade and Current Account Surpluses Thanks to Weak Yen

WASHINGTON -- The Automotive Trade Policy Council (ATPC), speaking on behalf of General Motors, Ford and DaimlerChrysler, pointed to Japan's announcement earlier this week of record- breaking trade and current account surpluses as compelling evidence that the U.S. needs to pressure Japan to urgently realign its heavily undervalued yen.

Japan's overall trade surplus increased by 62.1% in March, its largest increase in three years, and its current account surplus rose 37% in March to reach an annual record of $176.4 billion.

Japan's weak yen policy has targeted the U.S. auto sector in particular, with over 50 percent of the vehicles produced in Japan now slated for export to other countries, the highest rate in nearly twenty years. Japanese auto exports to the U.S. rose 9% percent in the first quarter of 2007 over last year.

"Japan's latest trade figures bring home the real-world consequences impact of the misaligned yen," said Stephen J. Collins, President of the ATPC. "This is not an innocent or victimless policy. Japan's exports and global trade surplus are hitting record levels because of the weak yen. Its auto exports to the U.S. continue to surge, while sales back in Japan decline. We know that almost half of all Toyotas sold in the U.S., for example, are now imported from Japan, not built in American plants."

Collins continued, "Congress has given notice that it will not stand aside if the U.S. government continues to turn a blind eye to Japan's beggar-thy- neighbor currency and trade practices. These latest Japanese trade figures provide further evidence that the time for action is now."

For additional information on Japan's artificially weak yen policy and its effects on the American auto-manufacturing industry, please visit http://www.autoyensubsidy.org/ or call 202-631-8962.

The Automotive Trade Policy Council, Inc. (ATPC) is a Washington, D.C.- based non profit trade association that represents the common international economic, trade and investment interests of its member companies: DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Corporation.

Source: Automotive Trade Policy Council

Posted by Frank at 2:25 AM

Toyota International Teacher Program Sends 40 U.S. Teachers to Japan

Professional Development Opportunity Now Open to Teachers Nationwide

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Forty U.S. teachers, chosen as educational ambassadors by the Toyota International Teacher Program, will travel through rural and urban Japan from Tokyo to central Honshu June 22 through July 7, 2007.

For the first time since the Toyota teacher program's inaugural study tour to Japan in 1999, high school educators in all 50 States and the District of Columbia were invited to apply for the 2007 program.

Previously open to teachers from only 10 states, Toyota sends educators on a study tour to learn about Japan's past and present, explore global issues and experience the culture firsthand. The selected teachers will bring their unique perspectives to those they meet in Japan, and upon their return to the United States, share insights from their experience with their students, colleagues and community.

The Toyota International Teacher Program to Japan focuses on four themes -- history, education, environment and technology -- and how these affect industry and society. Program activities include visits to elementary, secondary level schools, factories and sites of historical and environmental importance. The study tour will also be highlighted by discussions with well-known authors, historians, educators, environmentalists and business leaders. This unique experience has been distinguished as one of the preeminent professional development programs in the country for American teachers.

"In 1999, Toyota was proud to send its first group of teachers on an annual study tour to Japan. We now mark another milestone by selecting high school educators to participate from across the nation," said Michael Rouse, corporate manager, philanthropy and community affairs, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. "This expansion will help a broader spectrum of teachers integrate environmental and cultural themes in multiple disciplines, at a time when the need for a global community, workforce and society has never been greater."

Funded through a $1.2 million annual grant from Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS), the Toyota International Teacher Program is the only one of its kind sponsored by a major U.S. corporation. To date, nearly 500 teachers nationwide have participated.

The Institute of International Education (IIE) in Washington, D.C., the nation's most experienced nonprofit educational exchange organization, administers the program. "Exploring another society and culture transforms individuals and has a significant multiplier effect that extends to the classrooms and communities of every Toyota program participant," said IIE President and CEO Dr. Allan E. Goodman.

The study tour to Japan is one of three international professional development programs for teachers that Toyota sponsors each year. The Toyota International Teacher Program strives to expose educators of all disciplines to the diversity of peoples and ecosystems worldwide in an effort to inspire the creative teaching of international, cultural and environmental themes in U.S. schools and communities.

The next 2007 study tour will be to the Galapagos Islands in October, and the selection process for this program is currently underway, including applications from many bilingual educators. In March 2008, another international opportunity will be offered to Costa Rica, and applications are being accepted through September 7, 2007.

The 40 educators traveling to Japan this summer teach a variety of subjects and were selected based on their professional and leadership qualifications as well as their plans to incorporate their experiences and research into their curriculum. To be eligible, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, employed full-time as a secondary classroom teacher (grades 9-12) and have a minimum of three years of classroom experience. The 2007 Toyota International Teacher Program participants are:

About Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion in the United States, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Established in 1957, TMS markets products and services through a network of more than 1,400 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers. Toyota sold more than 2.5 million vehicles in 2006 in the United States.

About Toyota's Education Programs

In addition to sponsoring a number of nonprofit educational organizations, Toyota offers three major programs that support teachers with grants and students with scholarships; Toyota TAPESTRY, the largest K-12 science teacher grant program of its kind in the U.S.; Toyota Community Scholars, which provides 100 scholarships to high school seniors based on academics and community service and the Toyota International Teacher Program.

Toyota also supports scholarships through the Hispanic Scholarship Fund; United Negro College Fund; Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation; National FFA and the American Indian College Fund. In 2006, Toyota USA contributed $40 million to U.S. philanthropic programs, with a majority of funding supporting education. For more information, visit www.toyota.com/community or contact karen_polan@toyota.com.

About the Institute of International Education

An independent, nonprofit organization founded in 1919, the Institute is the world's most experienced global higher education and professional exchange organization. IIE designs and implements over 250 programs of study and training for students, educators, young professionals and trainees from all sectors with funding from government and private sources. IIE also conducts policy research and provides advice and counseling on international educational opportunities abroad. The Institute of International Education has a network of 15 offices worldwide, over 800 college and university members and more than 5,000 volunteers. Information about IIE can be obtained from IIE's Web site: www.iie.org/toyota, or by contacting Joshua Beatty at toyotateach@iie.org.

Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Posted by Frank at 2:23 AM

Truckers Put Toyota's All-New Tundra to the Test With Tundra Prove It!

Street Course at Olathe's Bass Pro Shops Gives Attendees Opportunity to Drive in All-New Tundra

Members of the media are personally invited to experience first-hand the all-new 2007 Toyota Tundra during a ride-and-drive event held at the Bass Pro Shops in Olathe, Kan.

Toyota is inviting consumers to be among the first to test-drive the all-new 2007 Toyota Tundra in a unique way.

Tundra Prove It! offers a hands-on ride-and-drive program free to all attendees. This ride-and-drive event will be hosted by Toyota product specialists who will be on hand to personally demonstrate Tundra's all-new 2007 pick-up.

Designed, engineered and built in America, the newly-launched Tundra line-up will set a new standard in the full-size pickup truck segment for performance, capability, standard safety
features and styling.

Toyota will also be sponsoring a series of wakeboarding demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 a.m., and also at 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. These demonstrations will take place at the Bass Pro Shops Pond located on the premises of the Olathe Bass Pro Shops.

WHEN: This weekend, May 17-20th

Hours:
Thursday, May 17, 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday, May 18, 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 19, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 20, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

WHERE: Bass Pro Shops
12951 Bass Pro Dr.
Olathe, KS 66061

Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Posted by Frank at 2:21 AM

Olathe Toyota to Celebrate Grand Re-Opening of Newly Renovated Toyota-Scion Dealership

New 46,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility focuses on customer service

OLATHE, Kan. -- Olathe Toyota-Scion will celebrate the grand re-opening of its newly renovated $5.5 million dealership in Olathe, Kan., located at 685 North Rawhide Road, near I-35 and Sante Fe today at 5 p.m. The newly renovated 46,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility employs 83 associates and, sitting on a footprint of nearly eight acres, is nearly twice the size of its original dealership.

The newly renovated facility features roughly 10,000 square feet of main showroom space and includes: a grand customer showroom; a waiting area; office space; a new air-conditioned service garage and customer write-up area that spans another 30,000 square feet; and also, a 6,000-square-foot parts department.

"Olathe Toyota's main focus is customer service and everything we have done to our facility will enhance it," said Kenny Thomas, president of Olathe Toyota-Scion.

Expanding the service department from 14 to 37 stalls along with the expansion of the customer write-up area, and the installation of air-conditioning throughout its service areas are only a few ways Olathe Toyota-Scion has enhanced both efficiency and its customer friendliness.

"We've added a car wash and built a new showroom which includes a customer lounge with wireless internet access, and an automated coffee station," said Thomas. "We've also added four work stations for customers to use, and a 54- inch high definition cable television for their viewing pleasure."

Olathe Toyota first opened its doors to the public on Nov. 1, 1994, as a Toyota dealer development store. After becoming the top Toyota dealer by volume in the Kansas City region in 1996, Thomas bought full ownership from Toyota in 1997.

"It has been a great 13 years for Olathe Toyota," said Thomas. "With the new additions to this beautiful facility, I am confident that we have raised the bar on customer service to a level not yet achieved by any dealership in the Kansas City metro area," he continued. "The customer is our number one priority, and I believe that our newly renovated dealership is solid confirmation of our dedication to our customers and community," he added.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) established operations in North America in 1957 and will operate 15 manufacturing plants in North America by 2010. There are more than 1,700 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in North America which sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in 2006. Toyota directly employs over 41,000 in North America and its investment here is currently valued at more than $18.6 billion, including sales and manufacturing operations, research and development, financial services and design. Toyota's annual purchasing of parts, materials, goods and services from North American suppliers totals more than $28.5 billion. According to a 2005 Center for Automotive Research study, Toyota, along with its dealers and suppliers, has generated nearly 400,000 U.S. jobs, including jobs created through spending by direct, dealer and suppliers employees. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyota.com.

Source: Toyota Motor Sales

Posted by Frank at 2:19 AM

May 16, 2007

Seattle County Buys 700 GM Hybrid-Powered Buses

Contract may increase fleet to more than 700 GM-hybrid powered buses, saving an estimated 1.1 million gallons of fuel annually, enough to fill 138 tanker trucks

SEATTLE – King County was awarded a landmark contract today for the purchase of up to 500 articulated buses, most of which will be powered by General Motors’ 2-mode hybrid system.

The five-year contract, which could be worth as much as $400 million, is between King County and bus-manufacturer New Flyer Industries. General Motors supplies New Flyer with the hybrid system for the buses.

King County has been operating a fleet of 214 GM hybrid-powered buses since 2004 and with the addition of this contract, King County could have a total of 714 buses, making it the largest fleet of hybrid-articulated buses in history.

King County Executive Ron Sims welcomed key local officials and representatives from GM and New Flyer, as they announced the contract agreement during a press conference today at Qwest Field, home of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks.

“I nnovative public-private partnerships such as this put King County in a leadership position to help combat global warming,” Sims said. “We will put a new rapid transit bus service on the streets with the first 122 articulated hybrids ordered. The size of this contract demonstrates our commitment to transit and the resulting benefits to our residents for improved air quality and traffic congestion.”

King County’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and target global warming are among the most aggressive in the U.S.

Due to this strong environmental leadership, King County has one of the greenest transit agencies in the nation and GM is proud to supply its advanced hybrid technology to assist in this achievement.

In the U.S., GM’s strategy is to save as many gallons of fuel as possible by applying hybrid technology first to larger vehicles such as mass transit buses. Currently, 720 buses with GM’s 2-mode hybrid system have been delivered to 56 cities across the U.S. and Canada, saving an estimated 1 million gallons of fuel annually. The potential addition of up to 500 buses in King County will bring the total, in North America, to more than 1,200 GM hybrid-powered, saving an estimated 1.75 million gallons of fuel annually.

“We at General Motors share King County ’s vision to reduce oil consumption and greenhouse gas emissions,” said Tom Stephens, GM Group Vice President, Global Powertrain and Global Quality. “GM’s commitment to improving fuel economy, reducing vehicle emissions, and developing electrically driven vehicles is not a short-term strategy. We’re in this game for the long term. We see energy and environmental leadership as a critical element of GM’s ongoing turnaround plan and a key part of our business strategy. That is why we are introducing four all-new hybrid models in 2007, which is more than any automaker has ever introduced in one calendar year.”

Transit buses with GM’s 2-mode hybrid system deliver significantly better fuel economy than traditional transit buses, cut certain emissions up to 90 percent and have operating sound levels approaching that of passenger cars. Other benefits of GM’s 2-mode hybrid system for transit buses include reduced maintenance costs resulting from extended brake, engine oil and transmission oil life, superior torque, and improved acceleration.

In fact, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) conducted a one-year comparative study between conventional diesel buses and GM hybrid-powered buses operating on a typical King County drive cycle.

The NREL report showed that the GM-hybrid powered buses achieved 30 percent higher fuel economy on average when compared to the conventional diesel buses and total operating costs were lowered by 15 percent.

During King County drive cycle testing, the NREL results showed that the GM-hybrid powered buses lowered fuel consumption by 23 percent; nitrogen oxides (NOx) by 18 percent; carbon monoxide (CO) by 60 percent; and total hydrocarbon (THC) by 56 percent when compared to conventional diesel buses.

This NREL study of King County’s hybrid buses is an endorsement of GM’s 2-mode hybrid propulsion system and one element of King County’s decision to purchase up to 500 additional buses. The report was published in December 2006, and can be viewed at http://www.nrel.gov/vehiclesandfuels/fleettest/pdfs/40585.pdf.

To represent emissions reduction and King County’s purchase of up to 500 hybrid buses, GM is donating up to 500 trees that will be planted throughout the county this year. The first five trees will be planted in a historic portion of Marymoor Park located in Redmond, Wash., that was heavily damaged by a November windstorm.

The 2-mode hybrid technology in these buses has served as the starting point for GM’s co-development with DaimlerChrysler and BMW Group of the 2-mode hybrid system for passenger vehicles, that GM will launch later this year in the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon fullsize SUVs, followed in 2008 by the Cadillac Escalade fullsize SUV, Saturn Vue Green Line compact SUV and the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra fullsize pickups.

“The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon are the world’s first and only fullsize hybrid SUVs, offering up to eight-passenger seating and an estimated 25 percent improvement in overall fuel economy when combined with our Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology,” said Beth Lowery, GM Vice President, Environment, Energy and Safety Policy.

The 2-mode hybrid diesel-electric drive system for transit buses is manufactured by GM Allison Transmission, maker of transmissions and hybrid propulsion systems for commercial trucks, buses, and off-highway equipment and military vehicles, headquartered in Indianapolis.

New Flyer is based in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Posted by Frank at 2:08 PM

GM to generate $700 million in North American exports to China

DEARBORN, Mich. – At a contract signing ceremony witnessed by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce today, GM Vice President of Global Public Policy and Government Relations Ken W. Cole emphasized the importance of good economic and trade relations between the United States and China for General Motors.

“GM’s business relationship with China is a true partnership that creates value for all parties including the state of Michigan, the United States, and China,” said Cole. “Today’s contract signing is an important example of how this relationship is promoting exports from the U.S., especially from Michigan .”

This most recent agreement between General Motors and its Chinese joint venture, Shanghai General Motors, includes the export of U.S.-manufactured Cadillacs and automotive components valued at $700 million. GM’s China operations have imported about $3.5 billion worth of vehicles, components, equipment, and machinery from North America over the past ten years.

Today’s ceremony also comes at a significant time as GM’s vehicle sales in China will approach the one million annual level this year. In addition, GM and its Chinese partner, SAIC, will celebrate the 10 th anniversary of Shanghai General Motors and Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) joint ventures that include vehicle manufacturing, sales, after sales, automotive engineering and design, and automotive financing. Also, GM is celebrating its 5 th anniversary of the founding of the mini-vehicle joint venture in southwestern China, SAIC-GM-WULING.

These joint ventures alone offer 35 different vehicles - - ranging from mini-cars and minivans to luxury sedans - - to Chinese customers, with tremendous market success. The GM China Group has been profitable every year since 2001 and growth of the Chinese vehicle market continues to be robust.

Posted by Frank at 11:14 AM

Porsche releases new prices for Euro market

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany, is raising the price of its 911 and Boxster sports-car series with effect from August 1. The Cayenne models, as presented in February 2007, will not be affected.
At the start of the new model year, there will be a 0.5 percent price increase on the Boxster and a 0.4 percent rise on the Boxster S and Cayman S. The Cayman price will remain unchanged.

The cost of the 911 Carrera, GT3, GT3 RS and all-wheel-drive models (excluding the 911 Carrera 4S Convertible) will go up by 1.5 percent. The cost of the Carrera S and the Carrera, Carrera S and Carrera 4S convertibles will rise by 1.4 percent, while the 911 Turbo will increase by
2.3 percent.

Prices in Germany from August 1, 2007

Boxster
Base price*: EUR 37,900
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 45,309

Boxster S
Base price*: EUR 45,800
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 54,710

Cayman
Base price*: EUR 40,900
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 48,879

Cayman S
Base price*: EUR 50,500
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 60,303

911 Carrera
Base price*: EUR 68,000
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 81,128

911 Carrera 4
Base price*: EUR 73,300
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 87,435

911 Carrera S
Base price*: EUR 77,000
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 91,838

911 Carrera Cabrio
Base price*: EUR 77,000
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 91,838

911 Targa 4
Base price*: EUR 80,200
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 95,646

911 Carrera 4S
Base price*: EUR 82,300
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 98,145

911 Carrera 4 Cabrio
Base price*: EUR 82,300
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 98,145

911 Carrera S Cabrio
Base price*: EUR 86,000
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 102,548

911 Targa 4S
Base price*: EUR 89,200
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 106,356

911 Carrera 4S Cabrio
Base price*: EUR 91,300
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 108,855

911 GT3
Base price*: EUR 94,400
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 112,544

911 GT3 RS
Base price*: EUR 113,300
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 135,035

911 Turbo
Base price*: EUR 117,600
Recommended Retail Price**: EUR 140,152

* Vehicle not including sales tax or country-specific requirements.
** Vehicle including 19% sales tax and country-specific requirements.

Posted by Frank at 7:56 AM

2008 Subaru Tribeca Awarded Double 5-Star Safety Rating

- Subaru Tribeca given highest possible safety rating from NHTSA in both the frontal and side-impact NCAP crash tests -

CHERRY HILL -- Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that the restyled and more powerful 2008 Subaru Tribeca received the highest rating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash tests.

The Subaru Tribeca received 5-stars in both the frontal and side- impact crash tests for both the driver and passenger seating positions.

"Safety is a true hallmark of the Subaru brand and the Subaru Tribeca offers our customers the peace of mind of a comprehensive, proven safety package," said Tom Doll, executive vice president, Subaru of America, Inc. "Innovative structural design, plus advanced active safety technologies, combined with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), our version of stability control - make Tribeca a safety performance standout in its segment."

NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) provides consumers with vehicle safety information, primarily front and side crash test results, and more recently rollover ratings, to aid consumers in their vehicle purchase decisions.

The test results are relayed to consumers via an easily recognizable star rating system - from 1 to 5 stars, with 5 being the highest. The NCAP crash tests are conducted at speeds higher than required by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for both side impacts, at 38.5 miles per hour, and full frontal barrier impacts, at 35 miles per hour. The tests are done to compare vehicles for the NHTSA Consumer Information Program and the results can be found at www.nhtsa.dot.gov.

Like all Subaru models, the 2008 Tribeca has been optimized for both active safety (the technology to help the driver avoid hazardous situations) and passive safety (the systems that help protect occupants in the event of a collision).

Subaru Active Safety

The active safety concept for the Subaru Tribeca combines "right size" proportions, with inherently crisp, agile driving responses and dynamic handling systems. Notably, the Tribeca is equipped with the company's most advanced version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, combining Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability control and four-wheel traction control (TCS). This combination of technologies along with its standard double-wishbone rear suspension endows the Tribeca with outstanding nimbleness and all-weather grip.

Just as important, is the specific way that Subaru has integrated these technologies, resulting in one of the most effective traction and handling systems on the market today. VDC is a highly sophisticated stability control system that actively controls the center differential's power distribution by means of a continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch. The system distributes torque to the appropriate wheel based on input from steering wheel angle, yaw and lateral g-force sensors. It also monitors input from the ABS brake system, adjusting individual wheel braking as needed, helping to maintain vehicle control under a variety of driving conditions.

The 2008 Tribeca also features a 4-channel/4-sensor ABS braking system with Emergency Brake Assist. Emergency Brake Assist analyzes force and stroke on the brake pedal and increases hydraulic boost to provide enhanced emergency braking. A direct tire-pressure monitoring system and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are also standard. The EBD system automatically adjusts front/rear brake proportioning based on vehicle load and is more effective than conventional brake proportioning valves.

Visibility Enhancers

For improved visibility, the redesigned 2008 Tribeca features larger rear quarter windows, plus new side mirrors with 50 percent larger viewing area. Tribeca Limited models with the optional touch-screen navigation system include a rear vision camera. When the driver moves the transmission shift handle into reverse, the center color LCD display will show what the camera lens can detect within its field of vision behind the vehicle. The screen view also features distance/width guidelines to assist the driver in backing up the vehicle.

Customers can also order reverse assist sensors as an optional accessory for any Tribeca model. Ultrasonic sensors mounted in the rear bumper detect objects behind the Tribeca and emit an audible tone as the vehicle gets closer to the object behind it.

Subaru Passive Safety

The foundation for passive safety in the Tribeca, and in all Subaru vehicles, is the proven Subaru Ring Frame Reinforced vehicle architecture. The ring frame reinforced unibody structure with a front-end configuration disperses collision energy in three directions.

This design forms a series of "rings" around the passenger compartment, providing protection in a variety of collision types. High-strength steel reinforced center pillars enhance side impact protection, which is further bolstered by optimally positioned side-impact door beams.

The Subaru Boxer engine contributes to safety, because it allows more crush room in front impacts. Subaru vehicles are designed to allow the entire powertrain to slide under the car along the floor tunnel in a severe collision, helping to prevent intrusion into the passenger compartment. In the rear, the spare tire is mounted underneath the vehicle to avoid intrusion into the passenger compartment. Additionally, a specially-designed 'M-frame' structure protects occupants with added reinforcement in the event of a rear collision.

Advanced Air Bag Systems

The heightened focus on side impact safety continues inside, where the Tribeca features standard front seat side impact air bags for thorax-area protection, and curtain side air bags (front and middle rows) for head and rollover protection. Mounted in the upper sides of the front seatbacks, the front seat side-impact air bags offer protection regardless of seat position. The curtain side air bags deploy from the headliner. Sensors in the vehicle determine if an impact engages the center pillar (deploying side air bags, belt tensioners and curtain air bags) or just the rear seat area (deploying curtain air bags). Special sensing and algorithms also will deploy and maintain the side curtain inflation when a potential rollover is detected.

The Subaru advanced frontal air bag system (SRS) uses dual-stage- deployment driver and front passenger air bags. A position sensor on the driver's seat track detects if the driver is sitting too close to the air bag, in which case the system would delay deployment of the air bag's second stage. The system also takes input from a seatbelt buckle switch, to determine if the driver is using the belt.

The passenger side front seat incorporates an occupant detection system that measures weight on the passenger seat - determining the presence of a child or adult - to control air bag deployment. In addition, the system takes input from a seatbelt tension sensor installed in the seatbelt anchor, as well as a seatbelt buckle sensor. If the system determines "empty seat" or "child" (based on weight thresholds), it sets the front air bag not to deploy and illuminates the "air bag off" indicator. If an adult is detected, the air bag will be set to deploy and the "air bag on" light illuminates.

All seating positions in the Tribeca feature a three-point seatbelt. The belt for the second-row middle passenger deploys from an anchor located in the headliner. All Subaru models incorporate electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters in the front three-point seatbelts. These systems work together to gradually restrain the occupants and absorb the impact energy of a frontal collision. The seatbelt pre-tensioners operate simultaneously with the front air bags and cinch the front seatbelts to help restrain the driver and front passenger in their seats. Additionally, the mechanically operated torsion-bar force-limiters extend the belts to reduce the belt forces on the occupants' torsos. The seatbelt mechanism also absorbs energy through internal deformation.

The Subaru Tribeca also comes standard with active front head restraints that are designed to help reduce potential whiplash injury in a rear collision. A safety brake pedal system and impact-absorbing driver's footrest are also used to help reduce lower leg injury in a frontal collision.

In addition to these active and passive safety features, the 2008 Subaru Tribeca, launched at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, features more style and power. The vehicle boasts a new 3.6-liter engine that delivers 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of torque on unleaded regular gas. The exterior design of the new Tribeca is both streamlined and powerful, with a new, wider and taller grille, new front fenders and new hood design. In fact, all exterior sheetmetal is all-new for 2008 with the exception of the front/rear side doors. The grille is now integrated into the front bumper, featuring a new chrome spread-wing design.

Posted by Frank at 7:55 AM

Lexus Continues Support of the California Clean Tech Open

Luxury-Hybrid Leader Sponsors Transportation Category for Second Consecutive Year

SAN FRANCISCO -- Lexus announced today its continued sponsorship of the California Clean Tech Open, the second annual competition promoting the creation of clean technology, at a launch event at San Francisco's City Hall. For the second consecutive year, Lexus will serve as the Transportation category prize sponsor.

"Lexus is committed to our leadership position in developing luxury-hybrid vehicles, and support of the California Clean Tech Open continues our belief in the advancement of transportation through technological innovation," said Jim Farley, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "Each of our hybrids, from the RX 400h and GS 450h to the new LS 600h L, has introduced improved efficiency and lower emissions to new segments of the public."

The California Clean Tech Open Transportation category is designed to attract technologies that improve fuel efficiency, reduce air pollution, and minimize dependence on gasoline, such as more efficient batteries, lightweight nano-materials, affordable fuel cells, and readily available flexible-fuel vehicles.

Lexus has been a leader in the hybrid automotive world since the 2004 debut of the RX 400h, the world's first luxury-hybrid vehicle that Lexus estimates saves 350-450 gallons of gasoline per year compared to comparable luxury SUVs. The debut of the GS 450h, the first-ever luxury hybrid sedan, and this summer's launch of the LS 600h L, the hybrid version of the brand's flagship sedan, illustrate the luxury brand's level of innovation and distinctiveness unique to the industry. Lexus' hybrids achieve a seemingly contradictory combination of powerful engine performance, impressive fuel efficiency and fewer smog-forming emissions.

As the luxury division of Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. (TMS), Lexus and its parent company are dedicated to environmentally sustainable transportation. In addition to the company's commitment to hybrid technology and to the research and development of other advanced and alternative-fuel vehicle technologies, Toyota's environmental commitment extends beyond its automotive products.

Toyota manages the environmental impacts at each vehicle life-cycle stage, including design, manufacturing, sales and distribution, and end-of-life recycling. Toyota's average fuel economy is one of the best overall among all full-line automakers, and 90 percent of its models are certified to ULEV or better, with all hybrids garnering SULEV certification. The company's manufacturing plants incorporate state-of-the-art environmental technologies and have achieved zero-landfill status, and two of its newest sales and distribution facilities have earned Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED(R)) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. Toyota also contributes millions of dollars to external environmental programs and fosters an environmental spirit in its staff, with associates devoting countless hours at events like National Public Lands Day.

Source: Lexus

Posted by Frank at 7:52 AM

BMW informs Magna of its intention to produce next generation BMW X3 in-house

AURORA, ON -- Magna International Inc. today reported that BMW AG has informed us of its intention to commence in-house assembly of the next generation BMW X3 in Spartanburg, South Carolina, following end of production of the current generation BMW X3 at our Graz, Austria facility.

While end of production for the program is at the discretion of BMW, Magna Steyr currently expects BMW X3 production to end in 2010. We are currently a significant supplier to BMW's Spartanburg facility.

We have been the sole production source of the BMW X3 since we began producing the vehicle in 2003. BMW X3 production represented approximately 45% of total vehicles assembled at Magna Steyr in 2006. We are in discussions with customers about future potential assembly opportunities for our Graz facility.

We are the most diversified automotive supplier in the world. We design, develop and manufacture automotive systems, assemblies, modules and components, and engineer and assemble complete vehicles, primarily for sale to original equipment manufacturers of cars and light trucks in North America, Europe, Asia, South America and Africa.

Our capabilities include the design, engineering, testing and manufacture of automotive interior systems; seating systems; closure systems; metal body and structural systems; vision systems; electronic systems; exterior systems; powertrain systems; roof systems; as well as complete vehicle engineering and assembly.

We have approximately 83,000 employees in 235 manufacturing operations and 62 product development and engineering centres in 23 countries.

Source: Magna International Inc.

Posted by Frank at 7:51 AM

May 15, 2007

Chevy Sequel Drives Into History Books

First hydrogen fuel cell vehicle to go 300 miles without refueling

TARRYTOWN – General Motors Corp. made history today as its Chevy Sequel – the world’s most technologically advanced automobile – became the first electrically-driven fuel cell vehicle to achieve 300 miles on one tank of hydrogen, in and out of traffic on public roads, while producing zero emissions.

“With this drive, General Motors has reached another important milestone toward the commercialization of our fuel cell vehicles, by achieving the range expected by today’s consumers,” said Larry Burns, GM vice president, research & development and strategic planning. ”And we did it while producing zero emissions, as a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle only emits water. In addition, the hydrogen produced at Niagara Falls , used to fuel Sequel, was derived from hydropower – a clean, renewable resource. This means that the entire process – from the creation of the hydrogen to the use of the fuel in the vehicle -- was virtually carbon dioxide (CO2) free.”

Sequel was introduced in 2005 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and the first drivable version appeared last fall. It is the first vehicle in the world to successfully integrate a hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system with a broad menu of advanced technologies such as steer-and brake-by-wire controls, wheel hub motors, lithium-ion batteries and a lightweight aluminum structure. It uses clean, renewable hydrogen as a fuel and emits only water vapor. Now it is the first fuel cell vehicle to achieve real-world range.

“General Motors is proving that advanced technology can remove the automobile from the environmental debate and reduce our dependence on petroleum," Burns said. “Chevy Sequel clearly shows that our vision for the future of the automobile is real and sustainable.”

The 300-mile drive through the state of New York began at General Motors’ Fuel Cell Activity Center in Honeoye Falls , where the engineers whom have developed the company’s fuel cell technology, officially sent the Sequel off into the history books. “It is our fuel cell teams’ tremendous record of success and absolute dedication to this tremendously important cause,” Burns said, “which will ultimately enable our country, and our world, to diversify our energy sources and displace large amounts of petroleum.”

The Sequel achieved the 300-mile mark and crossed the finish line in Tarrytown as General Motors reiterated its commitment to bringing part of its next fleet of over 100 Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles under the “Project Driveway” demonstration program to the greater NY metropolitan area this fall.

Posted by Frank at 5:08 PM

General Motors To Invest $63 Million In Its Saginaw Metal Casting Operations

SAGINAW, MICH. – General Motors will invest $63 million in its Saginaw, Mich. casting plant to produce cylinder heads for 3.6-liter high-feature V-6 engines by utilizing a new semi-permanent mold process.

The investment includes plant renovation and installation of new tooling and machinery to support the new casting process. Construction is slated to begin in the spring of 2009, and targeted for completion in January, 2011. The project will retain about 130 hourly employees.

“This investment would not be possible without the involvement of employees at this facility, who have dedicated themselves to improving the quality of our products and the efficiency of the operations here at Saginaw Metal Casting Operations,” said Arvin Jones, GM Powertrain manufacturing manager for castings and components. “Their efforts have contributed to GM’s competitiveness and our turnaround in North America.”

The GM Powertrain Saginaw Metal Casting Operations management, UAW Local 668 and IAM Local 2839 leadership successfully negotiated competitive operating agreements that improve operational effectiveness. The agreements also address processes and methods to improve production quality and safety of the operations.

“On behalf of GM, I commend the United Auto Workers, UAW Local 668, IAM Local 2839 and Michigan ’s leaders on the state and local levels. Working together we were able to build a competitive business case to support this investment in Michigan. The $63 million investment announced today brings GM Powertrain’s total Michigan investments in the past year to more than half a billion dollars,” said Jones.

“GM’s continued investment in its Michigan manufacturing facilities is good news for Michigan jobs,” said Governor Jennifer Granholm. “The cutting-edge technology that’s going into this facility not only solidifies the plant’s future in Saginaw, it’s symbolic of the kind of high-tech, advanced automotive manufacturing that can help grow jobs in Michigan tomorrow.”

The semi-permanent mold process, considered to be the most reliable process for casting cylinder heads, utilizes a water cooling process to produce a high integrity microstructure, thereby increasing the material strength. The 3.6-liter high feature V-6 engine has applications in the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave.

GM’s Powertrain Saginaw Metal Casting Operations (SMCO) facility opened in 1918, and is General Motors' largest aluminum producing facility. Notably, the new semi-permanent mold process becomes the fourth method for casting aluminum at SMCO. The plant employs 924 hourly and 167 salaried workers and has an annual payroll of $100 million. In 2006, more than 421,646 aluminum engine blocks and 1,872,336 aluminum engine cylinder heads were produced at the facility. Aluminum blocks and heads manufactured at SMCO are used in the Vortec 4200 I-6 engines that power the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy; and the Vortec 4800, 5300, 6000 and 6200 V-8 engines that power GM’s fullsize SUVs and pickups such as the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche and Silverado; GMC Yukon, Yukon XL and Sierra; and Cadillac Escalade, ESV and EXT.

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. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Posted by Frank at 1:53 PM

Audi launches online tv channel

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Audi has started its own internet TV channel. With immediate effect, Audi tv is on the air in English and German at www.audi.com/tv and www.audi.de/tv.

But the carmaker from Ingolstadt, Germany, goes far beyond what other brand channels have broadcast to date. “Audi tv provides viewers with exciting, original programming that offers new levels of access to the multi-faceted world of the brand with the four rings,“ commented Ralph Weyler, AUDI AG Board Member for Marketing and Sales.

Viewers are offered a wide range of exciting and informative reports from the fields of culture, sport, lifestyle and technology.

Audi has produced its own magazine programs in HDTV quality and in 16:9 format. The hosts present these shows 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Besides regular broadcasting times for the individual programs on the "Live" channel, viewers can also call up reports about specific issues at will on four "on demand" channels.

"We regard Audi tv as an innovative communications channel that operates like a TV channel but which also reflects the merging of traditional TV broadcasting with the internet," explains Hans-Christian Schwingen, Head of Marketing Communication at Audi.

"This mix of unconventionally-produced brand, technology and lifestyle topics makes our schedule very attractive. The range of topics we cover is broad enough to ensure that every viewer will find something to enjoy in the world of Audi," explains Liane Scheinert, Head of Audi tv.

Here are just a few examples of Audi tv programming: a stroll around the Bode Museum in Berlin, impressions from the catwalk during a fashion show by the star designer Michael Michalsky, kite surfing in Namibia, a flying visit to a perfumer in Grasse or the Audi “nose team” in Ingolstadt, portraits of an Audi DTM racing car driver, or the duel between an airboat and an Audi S4 Cabriolet in Florida's Everglades.

The channel is managed by a small team at Audi in Ingolstadt, with the support of editors from different divisions of the company, for example Marketing, Communications, International Sales, Design and Technical Development. The programs are created by Ziggy Film Mediahouse in Munich. They are responsible for program compilation, production management, project management, art direction and programming. Technical operation of the station is the responsibility of GRID TV AG in Munich.

Audi tv also benefits from the brand’s existing TV experience. In 2005, Audi successfully launched the "Audi Channel", a digital TV channel broadcast to some 7.6 million households in the United Kingdom.

Audi tv in brief

Can be viewed at: www.audi.com/tv and www.audi.de/tv

Available languages: English and German

Broadcasting times: 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Format: HDTV in 16:9

Channels: One "Live" channel with fixed broadcasting times, hosted by presenters, and four "on demand" channels with reports on specific issues that can be called up at the press of a button

Topic areas for the "on demand" channels: "Behind the Scenes", "On the Road", "Sports Center", "Life and Style"

Magazine shows on Audi tv: "Headroom" (content: portraits and innovative ideas); "Oldies and History" (content: for classic car fans); "Design" (content: design, architecture, composition); “Audi News” (content: current news about all aspects of the company); "Test Drive" (content: test drive reports, facts, tests, Audi models); "Driving Experience" (content: motoring experience); "Fascination of Technology" (content: automotive development and technology); "Audi Sports" (content: current news about Audi sporting issues); "Out and About" (content: magazine about extravagance and savoir-vivre), "Enjoy" (content: magazine for lifestyle, people, society), "Culture Beats" (content: culture and art)

Editorial staff and production: Ziggy Film Mediahouse, Munich

Technical operation: GRID TV AG, Munich

Posted by Frank at 12:43 PM

ACDelco Encourages Auto Careers Through "Pros Who Know" Scholarships

GRAND BLANC, MICH. — IHRA and ADRL Pro Modified driver Harold Martin – the “EFI Wizard” – has had an illustrious career, both on and off the track. An entrepreneur and engineer, ACDelco-sponsored Pontiac racer Martin is again competing in two separate racing circuits this season in addition to taking on a new role for ACDelco: youth outreach.

Impassioned by motorsports and the technology that enables one to become a winner, Martin is raising awareness of the industry shortage of qualified automotive technicians and awarding scholarships in the process.

At select dates on the IHRA and ADRL race circuits, Martin is encouraging young people to pursue careers in automotive technology, spreading the word about the demand for qualified technicians. He also is promoting the ACDelco – Harold Martin “Pros Who Know” Scholarship Program, which awards four high-school seniors each a $2,500 scholarship for first-year expenses at an accredited vocational school, trade school, college, or university.

In addition to these scholarships, ACDelco will present $500 in ACDelco automotive parts to each winning student’s school, helping these institutions’ vocational programs.

“Through the ACDelco – Harold Martin ‘Pros Who Know’ Scholarship Program, we’re trying to raise awareness of the current nationwide demand for 80 – 100,000 qualified automotive technicians,” said Chris Brandt, ACDelco Advertising manager. “With the U.S. Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating the market will increase 9 – 17% between 2010 and 2014, ACDelco and Harold Martin are actively encouraging young people to pursue careers in automotive technology.”

The ACDelco – Harold Martin “Pros Who Know’ Scholarship Program runs through October 15, 2007. Each applicant must submit a personal essay entitled, “What Winning the $2,500 ACDelco – Harold Martin ‘Pros Who Know’ Scholarship Would Mean to Me.” Harold Martin and ACDelco’s Total Service Support (TSS) Advisory Council will consider this essay, along with the applicant’s transcript, letter of recommendation, and financial need. They will review all applications and make their final decision in November 2007, with winners being notified by January 2008.

“We absolutely have to invest in our future,” said Martin. “When you look at all of the great opportunities that exist in the automotive industry, it’s a great thing to be a flagship that can instill and motivate young students to pursue careers in that arena. I’m really excited about sharing that message, and that ACDelco has come forward to participate in the ‘Pros Who Know’ Scholarship Program. We kicked things off in San Antonio, with similar appearances scheduled in our race markets throughout the year, and I’m looking forward to meeting some great kids. It’s a great way to start our weekend at the races.”

As a long-time proponent of helping others to follow in his footsteps, Martin values speaking with students across the country, delivering a positive message while encouraging them to follow their dreams. At the time of this release, Martin already visited schools in San Antonio and Selma, Ala., with upcoming appearances scheduled in Valdosta, Ga. and Tulsa, Okla., in addition to the Skills USA National Competition in Kansas City, Mo., and the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference & Expo in Orlando, Fla.

For more information on, or to submit an application to, the ACDelco – Harold Martin “Pros Who Know” Scholarship Program, visit www.acdelco.com. There is no purchase or order necessary to apply.

About ACDelco:
ACDelco markets quality parts for Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, GM and most vehicles on the road today. To find an ACDelco parts retailer near you, visit acdelco.com or call 1-800-ACDelco.

About the ACDelco TSS Program:
Uniquely positioned in the industry, ACDelco’s Total Service Support (TSS) Program offers exclusive access to a wealth of tools, training, and benefits to enhance nearly every aspect of an Independent Service Center’s business. For more information, visit acdelcotechconnect.com or call 1-800-ACDelco, prompt 0.

About GM:
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.

Genuine GM Parts and accessories are sold under the GM, GM Performance Parts, GM Goodwrench and ACDelco brands through GM Service and Parts Operations, which supplies GM dealerships and distributors worldwide. GM engines and transmissions are marketed through GM Powertrain.

Posted by Frank at 12:40 PM

Saab Invites Challenges to Audi, BMW, Volvo Buyers

With the tagline, "test fly the difference," Saab is running a marketing program with a dedicated website inviting customers to cross-shop their vehicles against Audi, BMW and Volvo.

Their main targets are Audi A4 and BMW 3-series buyers against the Saab 9-3, and Audi A6 and BMW 5-Series clients against the Saab 9-5 series.

Posted by Frank at 11:52 AM

Honda Civic Tour Goes Digital for Fall Out Boy

Nationwide Tour Kicked Off May 11th in Denver, CO

LOS ANGELES -- Honda Civic Tour is making sure Fall Out Boy fans are wired to this year's headliner by giving them access to exclusive interactive content on HondaCivicTour.com while also allowing fans to interact on-site with text and photo-to-screen capabilities in-between bands.

Fans will also get access to behind-the-scenes footage of Fall Out Boy on tour, exclusive opportunities to interact with FOB and get the low down on all the latest tour news.

On-site, Honda Civic Tour is providing an interactive concert experience dubbed Honda Civic Tour Fall Out Boy TV, which features music videos hand picked by the band and text and photo-to-screen capabilities, sponsored by XM Satellite Radio.

This feature allows fans attending the concerts to post messages and pictures that will be displayed on video screens between each of the five bands. Fans can also get a free trial of XM Radio Online by visiting the link on hondacivictour.com. XM Radio Online gives fans unlimited access to over 80 channels of programming.

Online at HondaCivicTour.com, Honda is putting fans front and center by giving them the personal opportunity to ask Fall Out Boy their deepest darkest questions. Fans can submit questions to the band online and Fall Out Boy will post and share video answers to some of the lucky fans' questions on the website for all to see.

Additionally, HondaCivicTour.com will be showcasing the very best Thnks Fr Th Mmrs Contest Lip synch video submissions. Fans have the opportunity to upload videos, through the FriendsorEnemies.com, Honda Civic Tour community page (http://www.buzznet.com/web/foe/tours/civic ), performing renditions of Fall Out Boy's smash single, "Thnks Fr Th Mmrs" which is currently the #1 most added song at Top 40 radio.

Each week the top five entries will be featured on HondaCivicTour.com. As if that wasn't enough, in the Long Song Title Showcase, fans will be able to submit their very own "Long Song Title" to be showcased on HondaCivicTour.com.

"We like to find cool ways to interact with our fans because without them we wouldn't be here so it's cool that we have a way to do that through HondaCivicTour.com and our FriendsorEnemies.com community page," said Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy.

Not only will Fall Out Boy be interacting with their fans through HondaCivicTour.com, 19 lucky bands will have the opportunity to open for Fall Out Boy in various cities along the Honda Civic Tour. The winning bands will be determined through fan voting on MySpace.com (http://www.mylocalbands.com/promos/fobcivic/), voting has already begun and will conclude at 12 a.m. on June 22, 2007. Fans can vote online for their favorites and the winners will be selected five days before the date of each concert at which the band would perform.

Fans can also log onto HondaCivicTour.com for a chance to win the customized, one-of-a-kind, eco-friendly Honda Civic Hybrid car with Fall Out Boy inspired designs and, band autographs. The "tricked- out" ride comes equipped with XM Satellite Radio, and a free one year subscription for listening to more than 170 channels of music, news, talk and sports. The car will be showcased at each venue along the tour where an electronic kiosk will also be available for on-site registration. No purchase is necessary to enter and entry is limited to legal residents of the 48 contiguous United States and the District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older.

XM is available as a factory-installed feature on Civic EX, Civic Si and Civic Hybrid models. XM is also available for 2007 Accord, CR-V, Element, Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline and S2000 models.

Information about this year's unbelievable line-up of support acts, including +44 (featuring Mark Hoppus & Travis Barker formerly of blink 182), The Academy Is ... , Paul Wall and Cobra Starship, can be found on the Honda Civic Tour website.

Honda, the most fuel efficient car company in America, began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Honda's first overseas subsidiary. Honda now employs more than 30,000 associates in North America. Honda currently has 12 manufacturing plants in North America, producing automobiles, light trucks, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, personal watercraft, engines, transmissions and other components. Nearly 8 of 10 Honda and Acura cars and light trucks sold in America are assembled in North America as well. Many of these products are now designed and developed at one of Honda's U.S. R&D centers. Honda annually purchases more than $12 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America.

Produced by Marketing Factory of Venice, CA, the Honda Civic Tour brings innovation and environmental consciousness to the masses by combining the hottest in automotive technology with the hottest in music.

For more updated information, visit the official 2007 Honda Civic Tour site at http://www.hondacivictour.com/.

Source: Honda Civic Tour

Posted by Frank at 11:44 AM

Gone in 60 Seconds Owner Sues Carroll Shelby

''Gone in 60 Seconds'' Star – ''Eleanor'' – Drives Her Case against Carroll Shelby to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal, Announces Greines, Martin, Stein & Richland

''Eleanor'' Copyright and Trademark Owner, Denice Halicki, Set to Prove Shelby Violated Her Rights in Replicating, Marketing and Selling the Legendary Movie Star Fastback Mustang

SAN FRANCISCO -- Denice Halicki, owner of copyright and trademark rights to the classic 1974 movie, the original “Gone in 60 Seconds” and its star car character, “Eleanor,” is setting the record straight about Carroll Shelby's alleged brazen infringement of Halicki's rights to “Eleanor.” In the opening brief to the Ninth Circuit, Halicki’s appellate experts, Tim Coates and Jens Koepke of Greines, Martin, Stein & Richland, show that her rights extend to “Eleanor’s” reprise performance in Disney’s 2000 remake of “Gone in 60 Seconds.”

Halicki spells out in her appeal that after watching the 2000 remake movie and recognizing the extraordinary cachet and appeal of “Eleanor,” Shelby teamed up with Unique Performance to manufacture and sell high-priced knock-off cars that look like one version of “Eleanor,” openly trading on the popularity of “Gone in 60 Seconds.” Despite the fact that Halicki and (her late husband) H.B. “Toby” Halicki have been using those marks worldwide for 33 years, (www.gonein60seconds.com) and thus own the common-law “Eleanor” mark, Shelby went as far as to register a trademark on the character’s name “Eleanor” without contacting Disney or Halicki.

“Using his fame as a legendary car designer, Shelby has convinced consumers and the automotive press that he has the right to produce a new ‘Eleanor’ for the masses,” Halicki points out in her brief prepared by Koepke, an experienced appellate advocate and intellectual property expert. “His bootstrapping scheme with Unique has racked up millions of dollars in profits and confused consumers as to who created 'Eleanor,’” asserts Koepke in the brief.

Shelby and Unique’s chief defense was not that they didn’t infringe, but that Halicki had no standing to bring suit against them. Instead, they argued, it was Disney that owned the “Eleanor” merchandising rights from the 2000 remake “Gone in 60 Seconds.” The District Court adopted this crabbed reading of the agreement between Halicki and Disney despite the fact that Disney signed a separate acknowledgment that it was Halicki who retained the merchandising rights to the remake “Eleanor,” not Disney.

“When faced with both parties to the agreement unequivocally saying that Halicki, not Disney, owns the merchandising rights to 'Eleanor' from the original and the remake, it was error under California law for the District Court to construe the agreement otherwise, much less grant summary judgment to defendants,” Koepke explained to the federal appellate court.

Halicki’s brief describes how Shelby had nothing to do with the creation of either the original or the remake “Eleanor,” yet the defendants printed the character’s name on the VIN tag and added the letter “E” to the name of their knock-off car, calling it the “Shelby G.T. 500E.” Moreover, the brief details how defendants promote the replicas as “Eleanor” of the “recent action-packed blockbuster movie ‘Gone in 60 Seconds,'" promising the car would come with a certificate of authenticity from the “originator of the ‘Eleanor’ movie car (Shelby).”

“We believe that the issues in this case are very clear and Halicki will be granted an opportunity to bring her claims of defendants’ pirating her intellectual property rights to a jury,” concluded Koepke.

Source: Casey Sayre & Williams

Posted by Frank at 11:40 AM

Who is America's Top Car Detailer?

Is this a bad idea for a bad new reality show? -- ed.

Armor All and AutoZone Search for the Top Car Detailer

Winner of the Armor All DIY Dare Contest Becomes Honorary Pit Crew Member for #47 Armor All Race Car and Wins $10,000 Toward a Custom Dream Garage

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Ready, set, wash.

Armor All is teaming up with AutoZone and Jon Wood, driver of the #47 car, to conduct a nationwide search for the country's best car detailer. One lucky grand-prize winner will also join the #47 team as an honorary pit crew member on Friday, October 12 at Lowe's Motor Speedway for the Dollar General 300 race.

The Detail it Yourself Dare (DIY Dare)" contest* is designed to uncover America's best detailer for the interior and exterior of the car. In addition to being named an honorary pit crew member for the Busch Series race, the winner will receive $10,000 toward a Custom Dream Garage. Last year's winner Kathy Lozowski, of Amityville, NY, defeated four finalists from around the country who each spent 20 intense minutes competing in a detailing duel.

"I'm sure the competition will be fierce again this year and the entire #47 Armor All team is eager to put America's best detailer right to work." said #47 Car Driver Jon Wood.

To enter, contestants can log onto www.aa-ownercenter.com. From there, they need to submit a brief description explaining their favorite detailing tip and a photo or video of their best-detailed car. The deadline to enter is 7/28/07. Four finalists will be selected and flown to Charlotte, North Carolina for a Busch Series Race. The finalists will be teamed up with an Armor All pit crew member for the ultimate car detailing challenge. A celebrity judging panel that includes Jon Wood will select one grand-prize winner, who will win $10,000 toward a Custom Dream Garage. The winner will also participate as an honorary pit crew member for Wood's #47 Armor All racing team during the Dollar General 300 Race on October 12 in the Charlotte, North Carolina area.

"Armor All is constantly seeking fun and innovative ways to interact with our consumers," said Jon Paluga, marketing manager for The Armor All/STP Products Company. "We are also thrilled to have AutoZone as a partner this year and the SPEED Network as a sponsor. For the second year in a row we're offering consumers an opportunity to win some great prizes, and the once-in-a- lifetime thrill of being an honorary pit crew member at a NASCAR race."

About Armor All

The Armor All/STP Products Company is a subsidiary of The Clorox Company, headquartered in Oakland, Calif. Clorox is a leading manufacturer and marketer of consumer products with fiscal year 2006 revenues of $4.6 billion. With 7,600 employees worldwide, the company manufactures products in two dozen countries and markets them in more than 100 countries. For more information about Clorox, visit www.TheCloroxCompany.com. For more information on Armor All, go to www.armorall.com

* NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES (D.C.) 18 YEARS AND OLDER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Contest Submission Phase ends 7/28/07. For Official Rules, free method of entry, and prize descriptions, visit http://www.aa-ownercenter.com/. Sponsor: The Armor All/STP Products Company, 1221 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612.

Source: Armor All

Posted by Frank at 11:36 AM

Lean Enterprise Institute Founder Warns About Toyota's Future

Best-Selling Book on Toyota Reissued

Car maker will stumble if it fails to maintain its lean management system; lean management applied to retail, air travel, healthcare and services of any type is the next revolution in business.

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- On the heels of reissuing the best-selling Machine That Changed the World, which explains Toyota's recent success in passing General Motors, author James P. Womack warned that the automaker will lose its momentum if it fails to sustain the business system that has made it the world's most consistently successful industrial enterprise.

"Toyota's great risk -- in fact, the way it can lose -- is if the many new managers being hired and its many new suppliers fail to embrace Toyota's lean management system," said Womack, the founder and chairman of the Lean Enterprise Institute, a non-profit education, publishing, conferencing, and research center founded in 1997.

"If this happens," continued Womack, "and its new managers and suppliers revert to the old, mass-production mentality they learned in school and from working with mass-production firms, Toyota's management performance will regress toward the mean. Instead of moving the whole world to embrace lean management, Toyota will become just another company. And that will be a tragic failure for all of us."

The term "lean management" is widely used today in manufacturing industries. It refers to the revolutionary business system pioneered by Toyota to create a wide variety of goods in lower volumes with less human effort, capital investment, space, and development time, and with fewer product defects and injuries to employees. Recently Womack, in his book Lean Solutions, has extended the concept of lean management to service industries ranging from healthcare to retail to air travel to finance.

Lean management calls for firms to make managers responsible for the horizontal flow of products or services across departments to customers. This balances the traditional tendency of enterprises to focus on vertical "silos" such as departments or divisions, which are good for organizing knowledge and career paths but mediocre at delivering true customer needs.

Womack first formulated these ideas in The Machine That Changed the World in 1990, with co-authors Daniel Jones and Daniel Roos. Their massive multi- year study of the auto industry conducted at MIT described for the first time the product development, supplier management, customer support, and production elements of the lean system as organized by lean management. The book, now reissued by Simon & Schuster, includes a new foreword and afterword by the authors to bring the story up to date at the point when Toyota has just passed General Motors (in the first quarter of 2007) as the world's largest and most profitable producer of motor vehicles.

"The book's most important contribution is to describe the complete lean business system, which is a new way of managing multi-function organizations that is relevant to any organization creating any type of value," said Womack.

"The heart of lean management is to focus relentlessly on improving value- creating processes as they run across functions and technologies toward the customer. The lean manager's most important methods are strategy deployment at the top of the organization to define the organization's purpose, problem solving based on the scientific method by line managers in the middle of the organization, and standardized work by managers and primary workers at operational levels," said Womack.

"Together, these methods, when employed by managers with clear responsibility for perfecting the flow of value, will permit any organization in any industry or activity to thrive in the 21st century. They constitute the next leap in the long evolution of management methods," he said.

About the Lean Enterprise Institute

Based in Cambridge, Mass, the Lean Enterprise Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit education, publication, conferencing, and research center founded in 1997 by James P. Womack. LEI helps organizations transform themselves into lean enterprises. Its workshops and workbooks teach lean tools like value- stream mapping and A3 analysis. Its management seminars and books help managers develop the leadership behaviors that sustain lean enterprises. Its conferences showcase firms making lean breakthroughs. And its Lean Enterprise Partners research program with a small number of enterprises tests new approaches to lean management. For more information visit LEI at http://www.lean.org/ .

Source: Lean Enterprise Institute

Posted by Frank at 11:34 AM

SF Bay Area Bike to Work Day is Thursday, May 17

On Thursday, May 17, organizers expect up to 100,000 Bay Area commuters to bike to work as part of the Bay Area's 13th Annual Bike to Work Day.

Who: Tens of thousands of commuters

What: The Bay Area's 13th annual Bike to Work Day (511.org)

When: Thursday, May 17, 2007 during the morning commute

Where: Early morning interviews are available starting at 5 AM at the Golden Gate Bridge Energizer Station at Vista Point (Marin side of the bridge)

More than 150 Energizer Stations will be located along local bike commute routes in all nine Bay Area counties on Thursday, May 17 to provide free beverages, snacks and encouragement to bicyclists. Throughout the Bay Area, dozens of local events taking place during the month of May are getting people excited about bicycling and the benefits it provides for public health, traffic reduction, cost savings, and the environment.

The San Francisco Bay Area's Bike to Work Day 2007 is sponsored by Webcor Builders and 511.org. Promotions are being organized by the Bay Area Bicycle Coalition, county congestion management agencies, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, and hundreds of local volunteers.

For more information about Bike to Work Day, visit 511.org or call 511 and say "bicycling" at the first prompt. Take the healthy commute. Hop on your bike and go!

Great Visuals!

Contact: Cole Portocarrero 415.246.8078
Bike to Work Day Event Coordinator

PRNewswire -- May 15
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Metropolitan Transportation Commission

Posted by Frank at 11:32 AM

Chevrolet Joins Mana's 2007 US Concert Tour

Chevy and Maná Team-up on Environmental Awareness

DETROIT – Chevrolet today announced that they have signed as the exclusive au tom otive sponsor for the 2007 Maná “Amar es Combatir” US Concert Tour.

MANÁ, the first Latin band to break into a top-ten spot on the Billboard 200 and one of the hottest Mexican rock bands of all time, will be touring all over the country and Chevy has joined the band to promote its music and environmental efforts. Chevy’s sponsorship of the band’s tour is part of a larger promotional campaign that will kick-off August 29 th in McAllen, Texas and will consist of on-line, grassroots, and promotional media extensions.

Just last year, Chevy recognized Maná with the first ever “Chevy Latin Music Award” for their contributions to the community and their commitment to help preserve the planet. Maná founded The Selva Negra Foundation in 1995 to collaborate actively with governments to guarantee future generations a livable planet. Since its creation, Selva Negra has financed and supported many important projects in favor of a healthier environment.

“We are extremely thrilled to be the exclusive au tom otive sponsor of Maná’s US Tour because it allows us to achieve a closer relationship to their vibrant audience and align our brand to such an amazing group of well respected musicians,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager. “Chevy shares Maná’s passion for music as well as the environment. Together we hope to enhance the Hispanic community’s awareness on the importance of developing technologies for a sustainable future.”

“Chevrolet and General Motors have shown their commitment to taking the au tom obile out of the environmental equation. We are pleased to work with them to educate Latinos in the U.S. about the environment.” said Fher, Maná’s lead vocalist.

In addition, Chevy will utilize various Maná songs for its 2007 Hispanic advertising campaign. Currently, Maná’s song “Justicia, Tierra y Libertad” is featured in the emotional 2007 Chevy Silverado Hispanic campaign which is currently running on Spanish language networks. The song focuses on the battle cry made famous by Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata in a modern, rock style that emits a feeling of accomplishment and pride.

Chevrolet is leading the way in alternative fuel technology. E85 is a renewable fuel made of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, which can be made from plants such as corn and is a renewable resource. E85 is available in the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo and Chevrolet Uplander. In addition, many Chevy products are available with Active Fuel Management, a fuel-saving technology that shuts off cylinders when the engine doesn’t require full power.

About Chevrolet
Chevrolet is America's No. 1-selling automotive brand. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $9,995 (Aveo) to $78,175 (Corvette Z06). Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.

About Maná
Maná is: Fher (vocals), Alex (drums), Sergio (guitar) and Juan (bass); 4 exceptional musicians, virtuosos, recognized worldwide for their talent. Currently the most influential Mexican rock band on a worldwide level. Over 19 million records sold worldwide from their entire discography. 13 Billboard Music Awards & 5 Grammy Awards. "Amar es combatir", their most recent album, debuted No. 1 in Billboard Magazine's Latin album charts, and No.4 Top 200. The album has been RIIA certified double platinum in the Latin us market (over 400,000) and American Gold record (over 500 units).

Posted by Frank at 9:24 AM

DaimlerChrysler Announces Detroit Groundbreaking for New Biodiesel Plant

DETROIT -- Biodiesel Industries Inc., NextEnergy and DaimlerChrysler today celebrated the ground-breaking for Biodiesel Industries’ newest facility at 250 E. Baltimore Avenue in Detroit. The new plant will emphasize biodiesel research, development, and production.

“This pioneering project brings together a diverse group of major industry players, such as NextEnergy and DaimlerChrysler, for the common goal of biodiesel advancement and implementation. We’re delighted to be part of the core group involved in this innovative venture,” said Russell Teall, President and Founder of Biodiesel Industries. “Our new facility will have the capacity to produce 10 million gallons per year of biodiesel using a full spectrum of feedstocks, including crude, refined and recycled vegetable oils and animal fats.”

The facility will be the sixth such production project completed by Biodiesel Industries. “Detroit is the perfect location for us to build our newest facility. This is the center of the automotive universe, and that is where we need to be. Coupled with the involvement of NextEnergy, DaimlerChrysler and other major automotive manufacturers and suppliers, we look forward to working together to set the standards for biodiesel production and use,” explained JJ Rothgery, Biodiesel Industries’ Chairman of the Board. “It is our pleasure to announce this project as part of National Transportation Week.”

Biodiesel Industries uses its own patented and proprietary production technology that can produce quality biodiesel from the widest variety of feedstocks. Quality control systems are built into process control automation for the plant, ensuring that the biodiesel produced meets stringent U.S. and global standards.

“Biodiesel Industries has many years of advanced development and production experience in the otherwise young biodiesel industry. Given the tremendous national market demand for their product, we are delighted that Biodiesel Industries has chosen Detroit for their next biodiesel production facility,” said James Croce, Chief Executive Officer of the NextEnergy Center.

Research and development will also extend into the development of agricultural resources utilizing brownfield sites managed by DaimlerChrysler. The use of new and innovative biodiesel feedstocks will be part of this research. “As biodiesel demand increases there will be a need for new resources that can be grown in America by American farmers,” according to Michael Cassady, Biodiesel Industries’ Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “DaimlerChrysler has led the way in the use of biodiesel in diesel vehicles by being the first automotive manufacturer to deliver their vehicles to their customers with a blend of biodiesel as the original fuel. Soon it will be possible to have that biodiesel made in Michigan from resources grown here.”

DaimlerChrysler has promoted the use of biodiesel fuel nationally with the launch of the Jeep® Grand Cherokee CRD diesel, Dodge Ram Cummins Diesel pickup, and Mercedes E320. To support the research programs at NextEnergy, DaimlerChrysler will commit currently unused land at a former SuperFund environmental site for use in producing soybeans, and perhaps other oil-bearing crops, for use in NextEnergy research programs.

“DaimlerChrysler is excited to be partnering with NextEnergy and Biodiesel Industries in this important research that will not only help diversify Michigan’s economy, but also strengthen the U.S. economy by reducing our reliance on oil,” said Deborah Morrissett, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at DaimlerChrysler.

For more information about biodiesel see www.biodieselindustries.com.

Posted by Frank at 9:22 AM

Hummer Gives QB H2

Cleveland Browns quarterback Brady Quinn stands with a new HUMMER H2 at Central HUMMER East in Beachwood, Ohio Monday, May 14, 2007.

HUMMER is providing Quinn with a one-year loan of two HUMMER H2's as part of its sponsorship of the recent National Football League Draft.

Posted by Frank at 9:15 AM

Popular hybrids losing tax credits

Toyota Motor Corp.'s Prius, arguably America's most popular green-machine, is slowly bidding farewell to its sizable tax incentives.

Generous federal credits established to bolster fledgling U.S. hybrid sales are being phased out on the Prius, gradually eroding a major purchasing incentive but also signifying the model's ongoing popularity.

Credits worth between $1,550 and $3,150 on Toyota hybrids began a quarterly reduction in value last fall, under the terms of federal law that mandates incentives gradually disappear after a manufacturer sells 60,000 gas-electrics.

Toyota, long the sales and image leader among manufacturers of hybrids, hit that number in June last year. Credits were halved in October and once again on April 1 of this year. The credits will expire entirely for all the company's Toyota and Lexus branded hybrids on September 30, 2007.

Posted by Frank at 9:08 AM

DaimlerChrysler earnings rise despite Chrysler loss

FRANKFURT -- DaimlerChrysler's first-quarter earnings before interest and tax jumped 73 percent to $2.76 billion (2.04 billion euros), despite another big loss at the Chrysler group.

The Chrysler group lost $2.02 billion (1.49 billion euros) before interest and tax in the quarter, twice as bad as expected, after restructuring costs of $1.24 billion (914 million euros).

Posted by Frank at 9:06 AM

Chrysler's Drive for Your School Awards Five Schools with a $25,000 Total Contribution

64 schools across the country competed for the grand prize, a cash contribution to support literacy and student enrichment

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- In celebration of 24 years of Chrysler Group minivan production and more than 11 million vehicles sold, the Chrysler Group is proud to award five winning schools of the Drive for Your School Challenge with a $25,000 total contribution.

The Chrysler Group's annual Drive for the Kids program encourages student family members and friends who are adult licensed drivers to visit select schools to test drive Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan minivan vehicles. For each completed test drive and short questionnaire, the participating school receives a $5 contribution from the Chrysler Group.

The Drive for Your School Challenge was an additional promotion this year that encouraged a friendly competition between these participating schools. The challenge ran during the month of April and the 64 schools were divided into five regions across the country. The top-performing school in test drives and completed questionnaires in each region received an additional $5,000 contribution to support literacy and student enrichment, donated by the Chrysler Group.

The five winning schools of the $5,000 prize are:
1. North Springs Elementary School
Columbia, S.C.
2. St Michael's Grammar School
Newark, N.J.
3. Richards R-V School
West Plains, Mont.
4. St Paul's Catholic Pre School
Bloomer, Wis.
5. Sanders Elementary School
Hollandale, Miss.

"We would like to congratulate the winners of the Drive for Your School Challenge and all of the schools that participated in this competition," said George Murphy, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President - Global Marketing. "The challenge was a fun way to elevate awareness about the importance of childhood literacy and raise money for local schools around the country."

Recently making headlines, more than one-fifth of adults living in the U.S. are functionally illiterate and that statistic rises to one-third at our nation's capital, according to a report on the District of Columbia. Functional illiteracy spans adults who have trouble comprehending items such as bus schedules, reading maps and filling out job applications, according to an Associated Press report.

About Drive for the Kids:

The Drive for the Kids program was created in 1993 to highlight the Chrysler Group's award-winning minivans and support education. The Chrysler Group funds a national program, called Drive for the Kids, to help parents raise money for educational and student enrichment programs. Drive for the Kids combines a fundraiser for the school with an opportunity for parents to tryout the latest Chrysler Group minivans and other family vehicles. The Drive for the Kids program is a fun and easy way for schools to earn money to benefit students.

Posted by Frank at 9:03 AM

BMW to build next SUV in U.S. to counter strong euro

MUNICH – BMW, the world's largest premium carmaker, will build the next-generation X3 mid-size sport utility vehicle in its U.S. plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the company said today.

"We will expand the production capacity of our U.S. plant in Spartanburg in the medium term from the current 140,000 to well over 200,000 vehicles per annum," CEO Norbert Reithofer said in a copy of a speech to be given at the carmaker's annual general meeting.

Posted by Frank at 9:01 AM

Miami tops 'road rage' list

For the second consecutive year, rude Miami drivers have earned the city the title of worst road rage in a survey released today.

Miami motorists said they saw other drivers slam on their brakes, run red lights and talk on cell phones, according to AutoVantage, a Connecticut-based automobile membership club offering travel services and roadside assistance.

Other cities near the top of the rude drivers list were New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

Posted by Frank at 9:00 AM

GMAC Insurance Reduces Rates in Illinois

The Company that Cares Gives Prairie State Customers a Much-Needed Break

ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- Today, GMAC Insurance announced the company will reduce its auto insurance rates in Illinois, effective immediately.

Drivers in the Prairie state can expect to save an average of 13.9 percent when purchasing GMAC Insurance coverage from 293 Illinois-based independent agencies. With fuel prices surging, these rate decreases will help customers manage their transportation costs, giving them a much-needed break. What's more, GMAC Insurance's exclusive GM Loyalty Discount has increased, which means policies with only GM vehicles now get up to 15% off liability coverage.

"With lower claims costs and favorable market conditions, we have reduced the rates that our independent agents offer," said Scott Murphy, vice president of product and pricing, GMAC Insurance - Personal Lines. "Given our long-term commitment to our customers and agents in Illinois, we believe this is the right thing to do for both new and existing customers. And, we'll still take care of them with the same great benefits, such as our outstanding 24/7 claims service, emergency expense allowance, SmartParts guarantee and SmartReplacement program."

The GMAC Insurance rate reduction is a statewide average that will affect individual customers differently. Overall premium changes for individual motorists will vary depending on factors such as the coverages they carry, the discounts for which they qualify, where they live, the kind of car insured, who drives it and how much it is driven.

"We know that many customers prefer to buy their auto insurance with the help of an independent agent, so we want to allow our agents to provide the best possible value to their customers," said Murphy. "With our statewide rate decrease, Illinois customers will be able to get great rates and great coverage with one of the top insurers in the nation."

For more information about GMAC Insurance coverage and to find a local independent agent, call 877-468-3466 or go to gmacinsurance.com.

The GMAC Insurance Group is one of the largest automobile insurers in the United States and is a wholly owned subsidiary of GMAC. GMAC Insurance Personal Lines offers a variety of property and casualty products, including personal auto, RV, motorcycle, boat and commercial auto insurance. With a nationwide network of claims professionals, local independent agents and a 24- hour, toll-free claims hotline available 365 days a year, GMAC Insurance provides superior claims service for its customers.

Source: GMAC Insurance

Posted by Frank at 8:58 AM

GMAC Insurance Reduces Rates in Colorado

The Company that Cares Gives Centennial State Customers a Much-Needed Break

ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- Today, GMAC Insurance announced the company will reduce its auto insurance rates in Colorado, effective immediately.

Drivers in the Centennial state can expect to save an average of 9.7 percent when purchasing GMAC Insurance coverage from 319 Colorado-based independent agencies. With fuel prices surging, these rate decreases will help customers manage their transportation costs, giving them a much-needed break. What's more, GMAC Insurance's exclusive GM Loyalty Discount has increased, which means policies with only GM vehicles now get up to 15% off liability coverage.

"With lower claims costs and favorable market conditions, we have reduced the rates that our independent agents offer," said Scott Murphy, vice president of product and pricing, GMAC Insurance - Personal Lines. "Given our long-term commitment to our customers and agents in Colorado, we believe this is the right thing to do for both new and existing customers. And, we'll still take care of them with the same great benefits, such as our outstanding 24/7 claims service, emergency expense allowance, SmartParts guarantee and SmartReplacement program."

The GMAC Insurance rate reduction is a statewide average that will affect individual customers differently. Overall premium changes for individual motorists will vary depending on factors such as the coverages they carry, the discounts for which they qualify, where they live, the kind of car insured, who drives it and how much it is driven.

"We know that many customers prefer to buy their auto insurance with the help of an independent agent, so we want to allow our agents to provide the best possible value to their customers," said Murphy. "With our statewide rate decrease, Colorado customers will be able to get great rates and great coverage with one of the top insurers in the nation."

For more information about GMAC Insurance coverage and to find a local independent agent, call 877-468-3466 or go to http://www.gmacinsurance.com/.

The GMAC Insurance Group is one of the largest automobile insurers in the United States and is a wholly owned subsidiary of GMAC. GMAC Insurance Personal Lines offers a variety of property and casualty products, including personal auto, RV, motorcycle, boat and commercial auto insurance. With a nationwide network of claims professionals, local independent agents and a 24- hour, toll-free claims hotline available 365 days a year, GMAC Insurance provides superior claims service for its customers.

Source: GMAC Insurance

Posted by Frank at 8:57 AM

May 14, 2007

Porsche employs 300 graduates

Panamera and hybrid driven result in higher personnel requirements

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany, is to employ 300 new, highly-qualified members of staff over the coming year. This need for personnel is driven primarily by the development and launch of the four-seat Gran Turismo Panamera, due to hit the market in 2009, and that of the hybrid drive for the Gran Turismo and sporty all-terrain Cayenne.

Around 200 vacancies are currently being advertised at the Porsche locations of Stuttgart, Weissach, Ludwigsburg and Bietigheim. The company is looking in particular for engineers, industrial engineers and economists – preferably with many years of professional experience.

The new recruits are to work in the following areas: vehicle development; quality management; purchasing, production and logistics; and sales, marketing and after sales.

Highly-qualified specialists are also in demand at Porsche Consulting GmbH, based in Bietigheim-Bissingen, and at Mieschke Hofmann und Partner, the management and IT consultancy based in Freiberg am Neckar. Together, the two consultancies employ almost 500 members of staff and are the most rapidly growing companies within the Porsche Group.

Detailed descriptions of current vacancies can be found in the online Porsche Job Locator at www.porsche.de/personal. Anyone interested should send their application to Porsche AG, Personalmarketing, Porscheplatz 1, 70435 Stuttgart, Germany.

Posted by Frank at 8:00 PM

General Motors and the College for Creative Studies Conduct "Designer Star Search"

Nearly 50 Detroit Public High School Students Take Deep Dive in Design

DETROIT – In March 2007, 31 mentors from General Motors (GM) Design Center and students from College for Creative Studies (CCS) – armed with sketching pads, pencils and real-life experience – began working with art students from 20 Detroit Public High Schools for the "You Make a Difference" program.

The project was established to identify diverse talent, give young people exposure to vehicle design, and increase overall awareness of careers in art and design.

"Helping promising students prepare for careers in art and design is a priority for all of us," said Richard Rogers, president of CCS. "We are committed to investing in the community through a variety of outreach programs that contribute to the cultural vitality of Detroit and southeast Michigan."

Students participated in group presentations and received individual instruction to develop sketching techniques. All were asked to design their dream vehicle that would appeal to 17-25 year olds, including crossovers, vans and small eco-vehicles. According to Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design, awareness about careers in automotive design is extremely low worldwide.

"Recruitment of new and diverse design talent is one of our top priorities. We need people representing countries and cultures from around the world to bring their creativity and unique life experiences to enrich the design process," said Welburn. "Partnerships between industry and education are so important to our youth. Through this program, students will have the opportunity to gain practical knowledge and experience in careers pertaining to the automotive industry."

Most of the 50 students identified are already interested in some type of graphic art, product or fashion design. They have been invited to participate in Advanced Sketching Clinics to further enhance their artistic abilities. The summer workshops will run four days a week, for four hours, beginning June 25 at Cass Tech and Southeastern High Schools. Six students will receive continuing education credit for courses at CCS.

"The art students truly benefited from this program," said Shirley Reid, Visual Arts Supervisor for the Detroit Public Schools. "This type of partnership program is so important to Detroit Public School students. We are delighted that the ‘You Make a Difference’ program will continue on through the summer and into the next school year."

The students’ original work will be on display on May 16, 2007 at the College for Creative Studies during a reception from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Walter B. Ford Building. Students, parents and teachers will be on hand to discuss their experiences along with GM and CCS mentors. This evening program will serve as recognition for their participation in the "You Make a Difference" program and provides an opportunity to offer congratulations as they move forward with the Advanced Sketching Workshops.

###

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.

College for Creative Studies

The College for Creative Studies is one of the nation's leading arts education institutions. A private, fully accredited, four-year college, CCS offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in advertising, animation and digital media, art education, communication design, crafts, fine arts, illustration, industrial design, interior design and photography. CCS is credited with having the world's most recognized program in transportation design and for placing more graduates in automotive design than any other school. The College also offers non-credit visual arts courses through its Continuing Education programs and opportunities for youth through Community Arts Partnerships. CCS is located in Detroit 's Cultural Center ; where it provides a dynamic learning environment in which students explore issues of art and design and the culture in which they exist, while preparing for careers in the professional world. For more information, contact CCS at 313.664.7400 or visit www.ccscad.edu.

Detroit Public Schools serves a city of 951,270 people in 138.8 square miles (City of Detroit). 143,490 students are enrolled and participate in the various extracurricular activities including robotics, academic and scientific competitions and business partnerships. DPS offers unmatched technical training for careers in construction trades, automotive technology, computer technology, culinary arts, aircraft repair, and more!

Posted by Frank at 8:00 PM

New Saab 9-3 range debuts for 2008 Model Year

Sharper Looks Showcase Enhanced Performance

Inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car [pictured], the new Saab 9-3 range will feature bold styling and cutting edge technology for greater driving appeal.

With all-new front bodywork, ‘signature’ lighting, new door panels and rear styling features, the latest generation 9-3 acquires a more focused, assertive stance, reflecting the introduction of technical advances aimed at delivering an even more rewarding experience behind the wheel.

All new 9-3s are immediately recognizable by the sharper frontal styling, which adopts fascia, grille and surfacing themes first seen on the Aero X concept, together with a return of Saab’s classic ‘clamshell’ hood design – first seen in the iconic 1967 Saab 99. The 9-3’s new ‘face’ is reinforced by other exterior changes that all combine to give the range a clearer, more distinctive Saab identity.

“We are introducing significant developments across three key areas: design, performance and handling,” says Jan Åke Jonsson, managing director of Saab Automobile worldwide. “The result is a major step forward in strengthening the visual and driving appeal of our core product line-up, which accounts for about two-thirds of Saab’s global sales.”

The new 9-3 portfolio continues to include Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible models. Available as the 2.0T and 2.8 V6 Aero, the range is expected in United States showrooms this fall.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of Saab 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X automobiles for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. Visit www.saabusa.com for more information.

Posted by Frank at 7:55 PM

Nissan Named Official Vehicle of New Off-Road Racing Series

- Nissan Trucks Take Center Stage of Lucas Oil World Series of Off-Road Racing –

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced that Nissan will be the Official Vehicle of the newly-formed Lucas Oil World Series of Off-Road Racing (WSORR). Nissan Motorsports is concentrating their off-road racing efforts on this challenging series, not only as the Official Vehicle of the series, but also offering contingency awards to Nissan race truck drivers.

As Official Vehicle of WSORR, Nissan trucks will serve as official WSORR pace vehicles. Additionally, Nissan will have an extensive vehicle display and conduct some special events during WSORR weekends.

“Nissan is excited to be associated with WSORR as the Official Vehicle of this new series,” said Nissan Motorsports Marketing and Operations Senior Manager Ron Stukenberg. “Nissan Motorsports has long used competition to improve its vehicles, evident by the rugged Frontier and Titan trucks, as well as our entire adventure-ready SUV lineup. WSORR is an ideal proving ground for Nissan trucks and Nissan Motorsports components.”

Based in the Midwest of the United States, WSORR features high performance, professional truck racing and entry level off-road classes competing at some of the toughest off-road courses in the world.

“WSORR is honored to have Nissan as its official vehicle for our inaugural season,” said WSORR President and General Manager Doug Davis. “WSORR will attract thousands of action-hungry fans seeking to see high-tech vehicles pushed to their limits, and there’s no doubt that Nissan vehicles will continue the success honed over decades of off-road competition around the world.

Nissan also includes WSORR in its extensive 2007 Motorsports Contingency Awards Program, with $1,000 to $2,000 available to registered Nissan drivers during the racing season, with up to $5,000 available for driver championship winners. The PRO 2WD pickup truck class (Nissan Titan) and the PRO Light Pickup class (Nissan Frontier).
“This 2007 WSORR season will be exciting for everyone – the competitors, the fans, and Nissan,” said Stukenberg. “We’re ready for the first event this May.”

WSORR 2007 Schedule
• May 19-20, 2007 - Rounds I and II, Steele County Fairgrounds, Owatonna, Minn.
• June 9-10, 2007 - Rounds III and IV, I-96 Speedway, Lake Odessa, Mich.
• June 23-24, 2007 - Rounds V and VI, Forest County Potawatomi Brush Run Races, Crandon Raceway, Crandon, Wisc.
• July 14-15, 2007 - Rounds VII and VIII, Bark River International Raceway, Bark River, Mich.
• August 11-12, 2007 - Rounds IX and X, Bark River International Raceway, Bark River, Mich.
• August 31-September 2, 2007 - Rounds XI and XII, BorgWarner World Championship Off-Road Races, Crandon Raceway, Crandon, Wisc.
• September 22-23, 2007 - Rounds XIII and XIV, Lucas Oil Speedway, Wheatland, Mo

About the Lucas Oil World Series of Off Road Racing (WSORR)
The Lucas Oil World Series of Off-Road Racing is the newest short course off-road racing sanctioning body in the United States. Based in the Midwest, WSORR features a high speed, high impact off-road racing experience for racers and fans at key tracks in Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri and Wisconsin. All races will be shown on the SPEED Channel during prime time viewing hours.

About Nissan Motorsports
Nissan has a long heritage of Motorsports success, both off-road and on the track. Nissan’s Contingency Awards Program offers more than $200,000 in available awards to qualifying Nissan drivers in 2007, including those competing in Lucas Oil World Series of Off-Road Racing (WSORR), Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), Grand Am KONI Challenge Series, Grand Am Rolex Sports Car Series, Championship Off-Road Racing (CORR), NOPI Drag Racing Association (NDRA) and the Formula Drift Championship.

Nissan Motorsports offers a comprehensive 110-page parts catalog, available through Nissan Motorsports at nmc.race@nissan-usa.com or 888/833-3225.

Posted by Frank at 7:53 PM

Clean Diesel Ready to Help President Meet His '20 in 10' Goals

Incentives Needed to Encourage Purchase of Fuel-Efficient Diesels; High-Quality Biodiesel Also Critical

WASHINGTON -- Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum, issued the following statement in response to President Bush's speech this afternoon discussing his energy plan:

"In January, President Bush called on Americans during his State of the Union speech to 'expand the use of clean diesel vehicles' as part of his new energy plan to cut gasoline consumption by 20 percent over the next decade. America's diesel industry is ready to respond and add to the estimated 4.8 million diesel cars, pickups and SUVs already on the road today. Numerous manufacturers, including Dodge, General Motors, Ford, BMW Group, Mercedes, Jeep, Audi, Volkswagen, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai and Mitsubishi, are planning to introduce new clean diesel vehicles in the next two to three years, as technological innovation promising slashed emissions meets consumer demand for fuel economy and high performance.

"Diesel cars, trucks and SUVs deliver superior fuel economy -- typically 20% to 40% better than a comparable gasoline vehicle -- without requiring drivers to sacrifice the power and performance Americans demand. Currently, diesel fuel is on average 26 cents cheaper per gallon than regular gasoline -- a national average of $2.79 for diesel compared to $3.05 for gasoline -- according to the Energy Information Administration. And today's diesel vehicles are clean, quiet and fun-to-drive.

"Greater use of diesel technology would help the U.S. reduce petroleum consumption, improve energy security and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that America could save up to 1.4 million barrels of oil per day -- an amount equivalent to the oil we currently import from Saudi Arabia -- if one-third of U.S. cars, pickup trucks and SUVs were diesel-powered.

"More Americans are discovering clean diesel as an alternative fuel option. Annual registration of diesel passenger vehicles has grown by 80% -- from just over 300,000 in 2000 to nearly 550,000 in 2005. And most analysts expect this trend to continue. Researchers at J.D. Power and Associates predict that diesel sales will triple in the next 10 years, growing to more than 10% of U.S. vehicles sales by 2015 up from 3.6% in 2005.

"Congress should consider extending financial incentives that encourage the purchase of new clean technologies, including new clean diesel cars, pickups and SUVs. Diesel manufacturers are also eager to continue working with the renewable diesel fuel industry to assure the highest quality standards and performance of biodiesel blends."

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the economic importance and environmental progress of diesel engines and equipment. Forum members represent the three parts of the modern clean diesel system: advanced engines, cleaner diesel fuel and effective emissions control systems. For more information, including a list of diesel vehicles available for sale in the U.S. and links to diesel fuel locators, visit http://www.dieselforum.org/.

Source: Diesel Technology Forum

Posted by Frank at 7:48 PM

Iowa Gov. High, on E85

High Octane Kickoff For E85 at Grinnell Kum & Go

Gov. Culver joins officials at May 15 promotion that includes $1.85 special price

GRINNELL, Iowa -- Iowa Governor Chet Culver, a longtime advocate of cleaner-burning biofuels, will help kick off a special promotion from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, 2007 at the Kum & Go store at 715 Lang Creek in Grinnell.

Also celebrating the opening of Iowa's newest E85 outlet (located north of Interstate 80, about 35 miles east of Des Moines) will be Kyle Krause, president and CEO of Kum & Go, Mark Oberkircher, General Motors' zone manager for Iowa, and Tim Gerlach, vice president of the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest.

During the one-day event, owners of flex fuel vehicles -- cars, trucks and SUVs designed to run on the alternative fuel E85 or gasoline $1.85 a gallon, with a limit of 30 gallons per flex fuel vehicle.

The event is being promoted by the Iowa Clean Air Choice Team, a coalition of organizations that support the use of cleaner-burning E85 in Iowa. The group recently opened another E85 pump in Lamoni, an Iowa town near the Missouri border.

"I'm planning on getting 30 gallons of E85 in our Tahoe," said Jessica Zopf, environmental health coordinator for the American Lung Association of Iowa. "With gas prices at record highs, special prices like these are just too good to miss if you have a flex fuel vehicle like ours that can use either E85 or gasoline."

Zopf noted that using E85 instead of gasoline significantly reduces some of the most serious tailpipe emissions, including those linked to global climate change. "It's just the right thing to do," she said. "At $1.85 a gallon, it is also a very smart thing to do."

For more details on Iowa E85 fueling outlets and flex-fuel vehicles, visit CleanAirChoice.org or call the American Lung Association of Iowa at (515) 309- 9507.

The Iowa Clean Air Choice Team is a group consisting of General Motors, Iowa Corn Promotion Board, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, Kum & Go, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Siouxland Energy & Livestock Cooperative, the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition and the American Lung Association of Iowa.

Source: American Lung Association of Iowa

Posted by Frank at 7:47 PM

Rising Gas Prices Force North Carolinians To Halt Travel, Spending

New Survey Also Shows Negative Perceptions on State’s Economy

RALEIGH, N.C. -- Nearly 7 out of 10 North Carolina drivers say they have altered their travel plans in the last six months and plan to drive less this summer due to rising gas prices, according to a new survey released today by Brogan & Partners, a Raleigh-based marketing firm. The 600-person telephone survey also showed that 6 out of 10 respondents indicated they have been forced to postpone other purchases.

North Carolinians surveyed were also decidedly split on the direction the state is heading generally, with nearly half of respondents indicating the state is heading on the “wrong track.” Most respondents with an opinion indicated that they believe it will be harder for someone like them to find a job in North Carolina in six months.

“Disposable income is a zero-sum game, so when high gas prices take a lot more money out of people’s pockets, they have to make adjustments elsewhere,” said Jim Tobin, partner at Brogan & Partners. “It was a bit surprising to see so many people driving less and such a large majority postponing other purchases.”

Survey participants were asked three questions related to gas prices. Highlights include:

* 67.3% said higher gas prices have caused them to drive less in the last six months
* 69.0% said they anticipate driving less this summer than in past summers
* 59.0% said they have already postponed spending money on other purchases they wanted to make

Participants were also asked five questions related to the economy generally. Respondents were cautious to pessimistic about the overall economy, but generally optimistic about their personal financial prospects. Highlights include:

* A statistical tie on right track/wrong track, with 44.7% indicating the state was on the right track, and 43.2% indicating wrong track. The Triangle was most optimistic, with 57.8% of respondents choosing right track. The Charlotte area was most pessimistic, with only 34.4% choosing right track.
* 34.1% of respondents thought the state’s economy was weaker than the nation’s, versus 16.8% who thought it was stronger. 44.6% felt it was about the same.
* 45.1% of respondents felt that it will be harder for someone like them to find a job in North Carolina in six months, versus 12.7% who thought it would be easier. 37.5% felt it would be about the same.
* 25.9% felt that they personally would have higher income in six months, versus 12% who felt they would have lower income. 61.4% felt their income would be about the same.
* 32.0% felt they would have more saved in six months, while 25.3% felt they would have less saved, while 40.3% indicating they’d have about the same amount.

“North Carolinians seem somewhat pessimistic about the general direction of the state,” Tobin said. “It’s interesting to see Charlotte, with its generally strong economy and higher incomes, being the most pessimistic about the state’s direction. In the early fall, we’ll ask the right track/wrong track questions again in North Carolina and see if people’s moods have changed.”

The Brogan Survey is a 600-sample, random digit dial North Carolina general population survey, stratified by geography, ethnicity and gender. The live telephone survey was conducted from May 3-7, 2007 and has margin of error of +/- 4.0% with a confidence level of 95%. Questions in The Brogan Survey were not commissioned by any candidate, organization or company. The survey was conducted by Brogan & Partners research affiliate The Glengariff Group, Inc., of Chicago.

For more details about the Brogan survey, complete results and additional information about respondents, please visit the survey site at www.brogansurvey.com.

Brogan & Partners Convergence Marketing, established in 1984, specializes in advertising, behavior-based audience targeting, public relations, digital and diversity marketing. The firm has offices in suburban Detroit and Raleigh, service offices in Washington D.C. and Florida and an affiliate in Chicago. For more information, go to www.brogan.com.

Posted by Frank at 7:46 PM

Chinese Carmaker Gets Boost with Hella Strategic Partnership

PLYMOUTH, Mich. -- Hella, a global supplier of automotive lighting and electronic equipment and Chinese automotive manufacturer Geely, have signed a letter of intent to jointly work on the development of automotive electronics components and systems.

Under the agreement, Hella will provide Geely with technical support packages for vehicle body electronics.

Jean-Francois Tarabbia, CEO of the Automotive Electronics Division of Hella KGaA Hueck & Company and Li Shufu, chairman of Geely, took part in ceremonies finalizing the agreement at the 2007 Shanghai AutoShow.

"Signing this letter of intent is an important step in helping Hella's intensive and extensive global collaborations," said Tarabbia. "Hella is proud and honored to be involved in this strategic partnership."

"The cooperation between Geely and Hella signifies our further steps in using international resources within the automotive industry," said Li.

About Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.

Hella, a global supplier, develops and manufactures components and systems for lighting and electronics for the automotive industry, including driver- assistance systems to enhance safety and comfort. In addition, its joint- venture companies produce complete vehicle modules, air-conditioning systems and vehicle-electric systems. Hella is also one of the world's largest companies selling automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, with its own sales companies and partners in more than 100 countries. Annual consolidated sales for the Hella Group total $4.4 billion. Hella is one of the 100 largest industrial companies in Germany. More than 24,000 people are employed in 70 production facilities, production subsidiaries and joint-venture companies. Nearly 2,900 Hella engineers and technicians work in research and development. Customers include all of the world's leading automakers and system manufacturers, as well as the automotive aftermarket. Additional information is available at www.hella.com.

About Geely Holding Group

Founded in 1986, the Geely Holding Group is primarily engaged in the production and sale of automobiles and automotive components. The Geely Holding Group also focuses on motorcycle, automobile engines, gear boxes, components, higher education, manufacturing of decoration materials, tourism and the real estate industry. Geely has total assets of more than 650 million USD. With head offices in Hangzhou, China, Geely Group has four manufacturing bases in Linhai, Ningbo, Taizhou and Shanghai. The company now has an annual production capacity for 200,000 complete vehicles, 200,000 engines and 150,000 gear boxes. With the successive completion and operation of new projects in Ningbo, Taizhou and Shanghai, the company's complete annual vehicle production capacity will rise to 300,000 and the annual engine production capacity also will rise to 300,000. Geely Holding Group has nearly 8,000 staff members from home and abroad and has several major development centers including the Geely Automobile Research Institute and the Geely Engine Research Institute. Additional information is available at www.geely-global.com.

Source: Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.

Posted by Frank at 7:02 PM

I walked into a Mercedes dealer today ...

... and the usual dour, reserved facades were replaced with glee -- they absolutely were 100% psyched that the Mercedes marque would no longer be stained by those Chrysler people.

Ecstatic, I tell you, they were ecstatic.

Posted by Frank at 6:36 PM

New Acura MDX and Ford Taurus are top performers in crash tests

ARLINGTON, VA —The 2007 Acura MDX luxury SUV plus the 2008 Ford Taurus and twin Mercury Sable large family cars earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's TOP SAFETY PICK award.

Vehicles earning this designation afford superior overall crash protection among the vehicles in their class. To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK, vehicles must earn the highest rating of good in all three Institute tests — front, side, and rear.

They also have to be equipped with electronic stability control (ESC), which is a standard feature on the MDX and optional on the Taurus and Sable beginning with 2008 models.

"Criteria to win TOP SAFETY PICK award are tough because they're intended to drive continued safety improvements such as high crash test ratings and rapid addition of ESC," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "Recognizing vehicles at the head of their class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple results."

Initially only 13 cars, minivans, and SUVs qualified for the 2007 awards. As automakers introduce new models or make safety changes to existing ones, the Institute adds winners throughout the year. With the addition of the MDX, Taurus, and Sable, consumers now may choose among 18 cars, SUVs, and minivans that offer top-rated crash protection and ESC.

Automakers make changes to earn TOP SAFETY PICK award: The Taurus replaces the Five Hundred, which was introduced in the 2005 model year and earned TOP SAFETY PICK in 2006 but lost the designation for 2007 when the Institute, based on new research, tightened award criteria to include the availability of ESC. The Five Hundred didn't offer ESC, which is optional on the 2008 Taurus and Sable. These cars also include side airbags with head protection as standard equipment.

"We're pleased that manufacturers are making rapid vehicle changes to reflect the latest safety research," Lund says. "It's only relatively recently that research has shown the dramatic benefits of ESC in preventing crashes. In a competitive marketplace, automakers are moving quickly to make ESC at least available and increasingly standard on most new cars and SUVs."

Rear crash protection is another area of improvement. When the 2007 MDX was introduced, its seat/head restraints were rated marginal overall, the second lowest rating. The head restraints are attached to a lever arm that moves the restraint up and forward as an occupant's back pushes into the seatback during a rear-end crash. Honda engineers changed the design of the lever mechanism so the head restraint moves toward the head earlier in a crash. The Institute tested a seat/head restraint with the new design, and it improved to an overall rating of good. TOP SAFETY PICK award applies to MDXs with the new seat design built after May 2007.

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 10:47 AM

2008 Ford Taurus, Mercury Sable Earn Top Safety Picks

- 2008 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable earn “Top Safety Pick” ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for achieving the highest ratings in frontal offset, side and rear impact crash protection.

- Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable are the world's only large family cars to earn both the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating and the U.S. government's highest available five-star ratings in all crash test categories.

- Ford and Volvo engineers worked together to create this innovative vehicle structure featuring crush zones so that energy is transferred around the passenger compartment.

DEARBORN, Mich. – The 2008 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable will arrive in showrooms this summer bearing Top Safety Pick ratings by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the government’s highest available five-star ratings in all crash test categories.

The IIHS' "Top Safety Pick" rating can only be earned by vehicles that achieve the best-available safety performance in frontal, side and rear collisions and offer electronic stability control. In addition to being the only large family cars to merit IIHS' Top Safety Pick rating, these sedans stand alone for also earning five-star driver and passenger crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

“It’s a true testament to the safety engineering of these vehicles that they achieved top crash test ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA,” said Sue Cischke, senior vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering, Ford Motor Company. “Ford and Volvo worked together to leverage our technical and intellectual resources to create this outstanding vehicle architecture, and now it's better than ever. These cars offer it all: safety, power, spaciousness, comfort and great features, all at a great value."

The Insurance Institute also gave both vehicles its highest rear impact rating for offering effective protection against neck injuries, as well as its highest front and side impact ratings for withstanding intrusion into the occupant compartment.

The structure of the Taurus and Sable is engineered with crush zones designed to direct excess energy around the passenger compartment into a high-strength safety cage. An innovative cross-car beam “SPACETM Architecture” under the front seats reinforces the structure between the B-pillars, which helps direct energy away from passengers.

Both vehicles offer an industry first two-row Safety Canopy™ side air bag system that provides additional protection not only in side impact collisions, but also deploys in rollover accidents. Side-impact protection comes from a combination of air bag technology and structural features that help safeguard occupants from intrusion by channeling crash energy away from the passenger compartment.

An advanced air bag controller uses front passenger classification sensing to determine if the seat is occupied, and if so, whether the passenger is a larger or smaller person. Air bag deployment is tailored – or altogether suppressed – to help provide an appropriate level of protection. The lower anchors and tethers for children, or LATCH system, provide mounting points for compatible child seats in the second row.

Both cars are available with AdvanceTrac® electronic stability control and all-wheel drive to provide drivers with a confident ride and smooth handling in all weather conditions. All Ford, Lincoln and Mercury retail cars and trucks will have standard electronic stability control by the end of 2009. ESC currently is standard on all Ford sport utility and crossover vehicles.

Ford Motor Company and its global brands have built more than 4 million vehicles globally with electronic stability control systems. More than one million of those vehicles feature Ford's industry exclusive AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control, the world's only system with two gyroscopic sensors to actively measure and help control both yaw and roll movements.

“We believe our electronic stability control systems enhance vehicle safety by helping the driver prevent many accidents from occurring in the first place,” Cischke said. “Making families safer is a key part of our pledge to drive safety innovation.”

AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control is standard equipment on most 2007 model year Ford Motor Company SUVs and crossovers. ESC will be standard on the 2008 model year Taurus X. The 2008 Ford Taurus starts at $23,245 (MSRP); Mercury Sable, starts at $23,540.

Posted by Frank at 10:01 AM

Dr. Dieter Zetsche speech regarding the new structure of DaimlerChrysler

Good afternoon to all of you.

At our Annual Press Conference on February 14th in Auburn Hills, we announced that we would explore all options concerning the future of Chrysler. We made the decision to do so following a broad strategic review of our four divisions and of our company as a whole.

In the past weeks, and in the course of exploring our options, we determined that DaimlerChrysler, as currently structured, would not provide the best framework for the longterm competitiveness of Chrysler.

We also concluded that we’ve realized the possible synergies between Mercedes and Chrysler, and that additional opportunities for cooperation between two businesses that operate in distinctly different market segments are limited. In addition, the extreme volatility and price pressure in Chrysler’s core U.S. market limits DaimlerChrysler’s overall profitability and the value of our shares.

The need to look for a solution had become absolutely clear. From an objective business perspective, this was the right thing to do. At the same time, given my experience with and commitment to Chrysler, this was a difficult task for me personally.

Our decision-making process was defined by clear criteria, namely to:

- Improve DaimlerChrysler’s financial strength and profitability in a sustainable way and increase the value of the enterprise;

- provide the framework for a clear strategic direction;

- improve the long-term competitiveness and profitability of the Chrysler Group; and identify the best alternative for our employees.

Structure of the transaction
Today, exactly three months after opening up all options, we’re here to announce the results of that effort which meet all of those criteria. We’re confident that we’ve found the solution that will create the greatest overall value – both for Daimler and Chrysler. This solution is subject to approval by our Supervisory Board.

And I’m happy to say that it has the full support of Ron Gettelfinger, President of the United Auto Workers.
I would like to explain the structure of the transaction to you: Cerberus will receive an 80.1% equity interest in the new company, Chrysler Holding LLC, in return for a capital contribution of 7.4 billion US dollars or 5.5 billion euros; we will hold a 19.9% equity interest. Chrysler Holding LLC will hold 100% of the future Chrysler Corporation, which produces and sells Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep® brand vehicles, and the future Chrysler Financial Services, which provides financial services for these vehicles in the NAFTA region.

The following points of the transaction are specially important to us:
On the one hand, the fact that Chrysler Corporation and Chrysler Financial Services have a sound financial basis. This is guaranteed, because 3.7 billion euros will flow into the industrial business and 0.8 billion euros will flow into the financial services business. The industrial business will be transferred completely debt free upon closing of the transaction. This will give the Chrysler Group a good starting position.

On the other hand, it was crucial for us that the Chrysler Group’s financial liabilities for pensions and healthcare costs will be retained by the Chrysler companies. The pension plans are significantly over-funded at present.

The transaction will result in a net cash outflow for DaimlerChrysler of 0.5 billion euro. Net profit according to IFRS in 2007 is likely to be reduced by between 3 and 4 billion euros. We anticipate an increase in the equity ratio of the industrial business to more than 40% by the beginning of 2008.

With this transaction, we have created the right conditions for a new start for Chrysler and
Daimler. Given our very intense, open and constructive discussions with Cerberus, we expect to
formally close this deal in the third quarter.

Ladies and Gentlemen, in the nearly ten years since we formed DaimlerChrysler, we’ve done a lot to move the business forward. We suffered setbacks. And at Chrysler those were magnified by external factors, most
notably:

- the marked shift away from light-trucks and sport-utilities vehicles as gas prices climbed;

- escalating raw material prices;

- and rising healthcare costs in the U.S.;

Still, Chrysler has made important strides forward in recent years.

- Productivity increased dramatically: “Hours per vehicle” have dropped from over 48 before 2001 to just over 30 today. Chrysler plants now rank among the most efficient and flexible in the world.

- Quality has improved more than 40% over the past six years.

- Material and fixed costs have come down significantly.

- At the same time, competitive investments in new production facilities and technologies since 2002 total more than $10 billion.

- And with 34 new vehicles launched since 2001, Chrysler has one of the youngest product lines in the industry.
As a result, Chrysler today is structurally more sound than its North American based competitors. And now, with a strong partner in Cerberus, Chrysler will have the best opportunity to realize its full potential.

Chrysler will be more agile and flexible. Chrysler will have the resources and ability to sharply focus on the continued implementation of its Recovery and Transformation Plan. And we have every confidence that Chrysler will succeed and return to profitability as a result.

And now I’d like to invite Mr. John Snow of Cerberus, to add his comments to today’s announcement.

Thank you.
We share your confidence that we’ve found a sound and sustainable solution for Chrysler. Of course, we’ll do our part to ensure its successful implementation.

And we very much look forward to our continued cooperation as business partners, as we want to continue to reap the mutual benefits of working together. That’s one of the reasons why we’re retaining a 19.9%. equity position in Chrysler.

Our joint programs will continue. Those include:

- conventional and alternative powertrain development,

- procurement activities and regional cooperation,

- cooperation in sales and with financial services outside of North America,

- shared logistics systems, and more.

To coordinate our common projects, we’ll establish a Joint Automotive Council, where representatives from Daimler and Chrysler will coordinate ongoing projects and evaluate the potential of new ones. This Council will be led by board-level members from each company.

Following the close of the deal, we’ll formally rename our company. We’ll call an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting later this year and propose that the company operate under the name “Daimler AG.”

We’ll scale down our Board of Management from nine to six members. Tom LaSorda, Eric Ridenour and Tom Sidlik will leave the Board of Management after closing of the transaction with our sincere thanks.

We’ll eliminate the separate board position for procurement. Bodo Uebber will take over board responsibility for this activity. In the future, we’ll coordinate all procurement activities directly between our divisions.

The leadership teams of the Mercedes Car Group, Truck Group and Financial Services will remain in place, as will our teams in our Vans and Buses business.

All of these are core businesses which will continue as integral parts of our company.

New Daimler AG
The “new Daimler” will stand on a very solid foundation. We’ve grown steadily over recent years at a rate between 5 and 6%. And we’re well-positioned for future profitable growth. We have above average financial power. We’ll be less dependent on the volatility and margin pressure in the volume segments.

With our New Management Model we’ve created one common corporate structure, accelerated internal processes and achieved significant synergies that contribute to the success of all of our businesses.

In sum, we’ve done our homework in our corporate functions and in all of our divisions. As a result of our strategic review, we have a well-defined roadmap to lead us into a good future. At the Mercedes Car Group, we’ll generate a return on sales of at least 7% in the current business year. We’ll increase this return in the coming years. With our S- and E-Class, we’ve affirmed our global market leadership in the premium and luxury segment. We’ve just
introduced the new C-Class to our dealers and their feedback has been outstanding.

Through CORE, we’ve enhanced our efficiency, reduced costs, improved quality and increased revenues. As the third and final year of CORE comes to a close, we have a clear vision of how we’ll continue our progress as we move forward.

Our Truck Group is the global market leader. With our Global Excellence Program we have a clear and effective strategy. We’ve made substantial progress in managing market cycles, in achieving operational excellence, and in targeting growth with our new generations of products. Our “Truck Dedication” program is significantly improving the breadth and quality of services we provide along the value chain.

We aim to achieve an average return on sales of 7% beginning in 2008 at the Truck Group, with a corresponding Return on Net Assets of about 30%. We’re Number 1 in the global bus market and set the industry benchmark for profitability. Our Van business is also performing well. The new Sprinter, introduced last year, is writing follow-on chapters in the success story begun by its predecessor. Our Financial Services mission remains unchanged. We’ll continue to focus on achieving an optimal balance between earnings objectives and supporting sales at our vehicle divisions.

We aim to earn a return on equity of more than 14%. And we will also strive to further increase efficiency and customer and dealer satisfaction.

Growth perspectives
Daimler’s future prospects are promising. Moving forward, we strive for substantial profitable growth:

First: We’ll further grow our core business in our traditional market segments that are both the most profitable and have the highest growth rates. In addition, we’ll exploit new market opportunities on a regional basis thereby expanding our customer base, which is the envy of the industry.

Second: We’ll further develop our innovative, customer-oriented and tailor-made services and other activities, pursuing opportunities both up and down the value chain.

Third: We’ll strengthen our leadership in areas such as sustainable, environmentally friendly and related technologies. This is much as we’ve long done in areas such as safety and diesel engine technologies.

By focusing on these areas we’ll exploit the full potential of Daimler. We’ll fuel profitable and enduring growth, and increase our company’s value. And we’ll do this on our own, while continuing to benefit from opportunities of scale with Chrysler.

In sum, we have clearly defined our goals for Daimler.

- We will be the leading manufacturer of premium vehicles and a provider of premium services in every market segment we serve worldwide.

- And we will pursue our commitment to excellence based on a common culture, a great heritage of innovation and pioneering achievements and – with Mercedes-Benz – the strongest automotive brand in the world.

This will provide for premium profits on an ongoing basis. The achievement of these goals will be the focus of our energy and our innovative spirit … and the key to our long-term success. Which is exactly what we wish for Cerberus, our new partner in Chrysler, as well.

Thank you. We look forward to your questions.

Posted by Frank at 9:46 AM

Tom LaSorda, Chrysler President and CEO, on Company Sale

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 14, 2007 - “We are confident that this transaction will create a standalone Chrysler that is financially stronger, with a winning combination of people, industry know-how, operational expertise and spirit of innovation that will accelerate the company’s recovery, and help us regain our position as a competitive industry leader.

Cerberus is the right strategic buyer for Chrysler, with a long-term commitment to Chrysler’s growth and success. They are committed to working constructively with both union leadership and Chrysler’s management team to help Chrysler realize its full potential. There are no new job cuts planned in connection with this transaction announced today.

As a private company, Chrysler will be better positioned to focus on its long-term plan for recovery, rather than just short-term results. It will allow Chrysler to renew its focus on what has always made us special – our passion, creativity and commitment to delivering exciting Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles and quality Mopar parts to our customers, along with unparalleled customer service.

With strong backing from Cerberus and a continued relationship with Daimler, Chrysler must demonstrate once and for all that we can win in this global marketplace. It is ours to win. And Chrysler has it in its DNA to do just that.”

Posted by Frank at 9:39 AM

Bentley's in the golfing game

Bentley Continental Cup

Team USA are the proud winners of the Bentley Continental Cup! After two days of totally focussed, dedicated playing, the Americans, captained by Scott Langevin, were able to consolidate their lead over the Europeans, despite some troublesome gusty winds on the last day of the Final and swung their way quite unwaveringly to the trophy on April 27th, 2007.

The final score was USA 10, Europe 2. In this unique invitation golf tournament Bentley enthusiasts from the USA and Europe had the chance to challenge each other, following the Ryder Cup format – four participants from the UK and four from Continental Europe competed against eight Americans. This first ever world final arranged by Bentley was held at the Pevero Golf Club in Sardinia, considered one of the finest courses in the world, incorporating spectacular views and a demanding design of the greens.

The course was certainly a match for many of the players, of whom some hold handicaps as low as 4, 1 or even -2 – game qualifications that would give a professional golfer pause to wonder at the amateur talent out there Colin Montgomerie might have shared the sentiment. A world-class golfer himself and contestant in eight consecutive Ryder Cups, Colin accompanied the participants of the Bentley Continental Cup during their training day on April 24th to offer advice and share pro experiences with them.

The Bentley finalists were excited to be able to play a few holes individually with a master of the game and to receive pointers during an informal clinic, so vital in preparation for the tournament. It was certainly an unforgettable experience for any golfer hoping to improve, and to win.

Colin Montgomerie turned professional in 1988 and went on to take the European Tour Order of Merit title every year between 1993 and 1999. He has won over 30 tournaments, among them the Volvo PGA Championship and the Volvo Masters. Considering his extensive experience in the formal Ryder Cup tournaments, it was an honour for Bentley Motors that he joined the event in Sardinia.

The preliminaries for this first ever Bentley Continental Cup World Final were extensive and stretch back to 2006, when Bentley dealers in the US, UK and Continental Europe organised local golf tournaments. The winners of these events were then invited to regional finals, the UK and Continental European Final took place in autumn 2006, the US Final early in 2007.

The contestants who qualified for the World Final in Sardinia share a love for Bentley Motor Cars and for golf, despite their handicaps being as diverse as their individual background and their profession. The American team featured players spanning the US from Florida to California and in its turn of the network of Bentley dealerships from Orlando to Silicon Valley. The UK/Continental Europe team included players from Frankfurt, Germany, Vienna, Austria and a contingent from Leeds, Birmingham and the West Country, again exemplifying the range of the Bentley fan base. Every notable sporting event has its special unforgettable moment. In the World Final it was Katharina Stumpf (handicap 36) of Bentley Vienna who helped the European Team avoid a whitewash by spectacularly winning against Franklin Loffer (handicap 17) of Bentley Silicon Valley. By the way, the winning team received the trophy, but each player was given a small replica of the Bentley Continental Cup as a memento of a memorable tournament.

As a venue for the World Final Bentley had chosen the exclusive resort Cala di Volpe, a stunning hotel situated right by the course and not too far from the glamour and shopping delights of the elegant port town of Porto Cervo. However, most players preferred to relax between matches in the hotel´s  spa, taking a dip in the pool, loosening tight muscles and mulling over their game while they were pampered by Cala di Volpe´s luxuries. These moments of rest were much needed, because all matches were fiercely contested. However, both teams showed not only great team spirit, but also bonded with their opposition in the easy geniality of dedicated golfers. New friendships were forged and celebrated long into the night of the prize ceremony, despite an early start heading home for some of the players. And the stunning Pevero course has found new enthusiasts as well: after a delicious lunch some of the finalists still had not had enough and went back out after the tournament to play a few more last holes.

Though the World Final in Sardinia is over, the next golf highlight looms on the horizon. Preparations for the Bentley Continental Cup for Europe are already in full swing.

Posted by Frank at 7:51 AM

Vintage Bentleys head to Turkey for twin celebration

Sixteen vintage Bentleys will cross an entire continent this month when the Bentley Calista Rally 2007

The 4000km event marks the opening of two new landmarks in Turkey: the stunning new Bentley Istanbul showroom on the Bosphorus, a major investment by the well known Dogus Otomotiv and the all-new Calista Luxury Resort in Belek.

Setting off in London, the rally heads for Istanbul, site of the new Bentley Istanbul showroom, before finishing on May 17 in Belek, Turkey’s premier luxury golf and leisure resort. There the event’s closing ceremony will be one of the highlights of the grand opening of the all-new Calista Luxury Resort.

Bentley Istanbul will be run by Dogus Otomotiv, importer of Volkswagen Group brands in Turkey and will be Bentley’s first dealership in the country. Attending the opening event on May 29, 2007 will be Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen.

Organised by internationally renowned architect, Frank Solano, and acclaimed designer, Eddie McGuire, the Bentley Calista Rally is sponsored by Bentley Motors, Bentley Istanbul and Bentley Vienna and will be run in the true spirit of the original Bentley Boys, whose motorsport feats in the 1920s and ’30s made the marque’s name legendary.

“We are proud to be flying the Bentley flag across Europe and into Turkey,” says Solano. “This sort of spectacle is classic Bentley and there can be no better place to end than at the wonderful resort of Belek. We know it is going to be a lot of fun and we hope to bring some pleasure to the countries we pass through along the way.”

Open by invitation only to members of the Benjafield’s Racing Club (Le Mans 24 Hours winner Dudley Benjafield was one of the founding members of the original Bentley Boys), the rally will maintain the amazing combination of sophistication, luxury and excitement that the Bentley Boys brought to the world of motoring in their heyday.

The rally will be a demanding blend of endurance and stamina for the drivers and their machines. During its two-week duration it will cross the entire European continent, passing through 10 countries.

Sixteen vintage Bentleys have been invited to participate including seven stunning Bentley Speed Sixes, seven Bentley 4.5 Litres one of which a Blower. The drivers range from as far a field as the United Kingdom, America, Ireland, Germany, Italy and Denmark.

NOTES:

Bentley Motors was formed in 1919 and dominated the world of endurance motorsport in the 1920s with five victories in the Le Mans 24 Hours race. Bentley Motors currently produces six models including the hugely successful Continental range and the all-new Bentley Brooklands.

Dogus Otomotiv is part of Dogus Holding, one of Turkey’s biggest companies. Dogus Otomotiv’s Volkswagen Group dealer network contains 155 showrooms and their 2005 sales volume represented 11.5% of the total Turkish automotive market.

Calista Group is a privately owned business with interests as varied as large construction projects, the cement industry, hotels and resorts. The all-new 5-star Calista Luxury Resort in Belek which will be opened on 19th May, 2007.

Posted by Frank at 7:50 AM

Porsche aims to continue success streak in ALMS

American Le Mans Series, round 5 in Salt Lake City, USA

Stuttgart -- Successful start for the Porsche RS Spyder into the 2007 American Le Mans Series: After claiming overall victories in Long Beach and Houston as well as three class wins from the first four races this season, the Penske Motorsports and Dyson Racing teams are keen to continue this success streak in Salt Lake City, in the state of Utah, where the Winter Olympics took place in 2002.

The fifth round of the American Le Mans Series, the series with the world's fastest sportscars, takes off here on Saturday.

Located in Miller Motorsport Park, the 7.240 kilometre circuit is not only the longest on the American Le Mans Series calendar but with its 24 corners is one of the most demanding. “A great challenge,“ enthuses title defender Sascha Maassen (Germany), who celebrated class victory and fastest race lap here one year ago at the premiere on the brand new circuit. “It's easy to lose one or two tenths of seconds over the long laps here, so it's very important to concentrate over the entire race distance and avoid making the slightest mistake.“

At the second American Le Mans Series race here in Salt Lake City, four RS Spyders roll to the start. The Porsche-supported Penske Motorsports team runs two of the Weissach built sports prototypes: Sascha Maassen and Ryan Briscoe (Australia) man the RS Spyder with starting number 6. Sharing driving duties in the #7 RS Spyder are Timo Bernhard (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France). The duo celebrated two consecutive overall victories within one week at the street races in Long Beach and Houston and with these sensational results took over the drivers championship lead in the LMP2 category.

The US-based Dyson Racing team runs two RS Spyders with assistance from Porsche. Manning the #16 vehicle are Andy Wallace (Great Britain) and Butch Leitzinger (USA), who finished third behind Sascha Maassen and Ryan Briscoe in Long Beach, making the historic triple victory complete for Porsche. Taking up the race in the #20 RS Spyder are Chris Dyson (USA) and Guy Smith (Great Britain).

For Hartmut Kristen the race in Salt Lake City holds very special challenges: “After contesting the last three races on very narrow and bumpy city circuits we're now back on a real race track. The cards will be reshuffled,” says the head of motorsport at Porsche. For Kristen, the key to success on this flowing circuit, which from it's characteristics is more comparable to European tracks, is not the pure engine output but the aerodynamic efficiency and stability in the many fast corners. The heat as well can not be underestimated, albeit with the race taking place earlier compared to last year temperatures are expected to be less extreme. He concludes: “This race puts extreme stresses on man and machine, particularly in the fiercely-contested LMP2 category. Spectators can expect a gripping and dramatic race.”

In the equally tough GT2 class for slightly modified near-standard sportscars, Porsche is strongly represented. In Salt Lake City, reigning ALMS GT2 champion Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) together with team mate Johannes van Overbeek (USA) are keen to secure their first class victory of the 2007 season at the wheel of their 911 GT3 RSR fielded by Flying Lizard Motorsports. Recently in Houston the duo finished second ahead of Wolf Henzler (Germany) and Robin Liddell (Great Britain), who will team up in a Tafel Racing 911 GT3 RSR for the Salt Lake City round. Amongst the circle of favourites are also Ralf Kelleners (Germany) and Tom Milner (USA) sharing the cockpit of a 911 GT3 RSR fielded by the famed Rahal Letterman Racing team.

The race in Salt Lake City gets underway on Saturday, 19 May at 5pm local time (01:00 hrs CET Sunday) and runs over 2:45 hours.

Posted by Frank at 7:34 AM

Wieden & Kennedy's Honda Magic Fades

Grrrr. Isn't it disappointing when something just doesn't work?

Having produced two of the best car commercials of the past five years -- in fact, two of the best car commercials ever -- the Honda team at Wieden & Kennedy, London, has suddenly revealed itself to be shockingly, heartbreakingly, irredeemably ... mortal.

Sigh. It was nice while it lasted.

"It," of course, being the transcendent genius that produced "Cog," documenting a sprawling Rube Goldberg device fashioned entirely out of Honda parts, and "Grrr," the optimistic Garrison Keillor ditty sung and hummed to cheerful "Yellow Submarine"-ish animation. These were both breathtaking pieces, as true to their respective selling premises as they were captivating to watch -- over and over and over again.

The principals would be forgiven for imagining any extravagant premise they lovingly midwifed into reality would be an equal tour de force.

Posted by Frank at 7:17 AM

Cerberus Buys Majority Interest In Chrysler Group for $7.4 Billion

- Affiliate of Cerberus to acquire 80.1% equity interest in new company Chrysler Holding LLC; DaimlerChrysler AG to retain 19.9%

- Obligations for pensions and healthcare costs to be retained by Chrysler companies

- Transaction expected to result in net cash outflow of $0.65 billion for DaimlerChrysler

- DaimlerChrysler's net profit according to IFRS in 2007 to be reduced in a range of $4.1-5.4 billion

- Equity ratio of DaimlerChrysler's industrial business is expected to be over 40% by the beginning of 2008

- Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting to decide on change of name to Daimler AG

- DaimlerChrysler CEO Dieter Zetsche on the realignment of DaimlerChrysler AG: "We will be the leading manufacturer of premium vehicles and a provider of premium services in every market segment we serve worldwide."

- UAW President Ron Gettelfinger: "The transaction with Cerberus is in the best interests of our UAW members, the Chrysler Group and Daimler."

- Cerberus Capital Management Chairman John Snow: "Cerberus believes in the inherent strength of U.S. manufacturing and of the U.S. auto industry. Most importantly, we believe in Chrysler."

STUTTGART -- The Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG (stock-exchange abbreviation DCX) has today decided, subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board and the relevant authorities, on the future concept for the Chrysler Group and the realignment of DaimlerChrysler AG. Completion of the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals and Cerberus financing arrangements.

Details will be explained at a press conference in Stuttgart today at 2 p.m. CET/8 a.m. EDT.

Structure of the transaction
-- An affiliate of private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.,
New York, will make a capital contribution of $7.4 billion in return
for an 80.1% equity interest in the future new company, Chrysler
Holding LLC. DaimlerChrysler will hold a 19.9% equity interest in the
new company. Chrysler Holding LLC will hold 100% each of the future
Chrysler Corporation LLC, which produces and sells Chrysler, Dodge and
Jeep(R) vehicles, and the future Chrysler Financial Services LLC, which
provides financial services for these vehicles in the NAFTA region.

-- Of the total capital contribution of $7.4 billion, $5.0 billion will
flow into the industrial business (Chrysler Corporation LLC) and $1.05
billion will flow into the financial services business in order to
strengthen the equity base of both businesses. DaimlerChrysler will
receive the balance of $ 1.35 billion. In addition, DaimlerChrysler
will grant a loan of $0.4 billion to Chrysler Corporation LLC.

-- According to the agreement, upon the closing of the transaction,
DaimlerChrysler will transfer the industrial business of the Chrysler
Group completely free of debt. Due to the Chrysler Group's anticipated
negative cash flow until closing in connection with its restructuring
plan, the transaction will give rise to a cash outflow of $1.6 billion
for DaimlerChrysler. The overall net cash outflow resulting from the
transaction will therefore be $0.65 billion. In addition,
DaimlerChrysler will have to discharge long-term liabilities of the
Chrysler Group in connection with the transaction. This will result in
prepayment compensation of approximately $878 million, to be borne by
DaimlerChrysler. The usual transaction costs will also be incurred.

-- The Chrysler Group's financial obligations for pension and healthcare
benefits towards its employees and the employees of the financial
services business related to the Chrysler Group will be retained by the
Chrysler companies. The pension plans are significantly over-funded at
present.

Effects on key figures
The transaction will have the following effects on DaimlerChrysler AG:

-- In total, current estimates indicate that net profit according to IFRS
in 2007 will be reduced by $4.1-5.4 billion.

-- Due to the deconsolidation of the Chrysler companies and the resulting
reduction in the balance-sheet total, the equity ratio of
DaimlerChrysler's industrial business is expected to increase to more
than 40% by the beginning of 2008.

-- There will be no changes relating to the bonds issued and guaranteed by
DaimlerChrysler AG. In the financial services business for the
Chrysler, Jeep (R) and Dodge brands, Cerberus will take over the
financing previously provided by DaimlerChrysler AG.

-- The 19.9% equity interest held by DaimlerChrysler AG in the new company
Chrysler Holding LLC will be included after closing at equity in the
Van, Bus, Others segment.

-- The closing of the transaction is expected to take place in the third
quarter of 2007.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG and Head of the Mercedes Car Group: "We're confident that we've found the solution that will create the greatest overall value - both for Daimler and Chrysler. With this transaction, we have created the right conditions for a new start for Chrysler and Daimler."

Ron Gettelfinger, President of the United Autoworkers (UAW): "The transaction with Cerberus is in the best interests of our UAW members, the Chrysler Group and Daimler. We are pleased that this decision has been made, because our members and the management can now focus entirely on the development and manufacture of quality products for the future of the Chrysler Group."

John W. Snow, Chairman of Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.: "We welcome Chrysler into the Cerberus family of companies and believe Cerberus will be a good home for Chrysler. Cerberus believes in the inherent strength of U.S. manufacturing and of the U.S. auto industry. Most importantly, we believe in Chrysler."

Snow continued: "We would like to thank DaimlerChrysler for their good stewardship of this American icon over the last decade. We are aware that Chrysler faces significant challenges, but we are confident that they can and will be overcome. A private investment firm like Cerberus will provide management with the opportunity to focus on their long-term plans rather than the pressures of short-term earnings expectations."

Business progress

In nearly ten years as DaimlerChrysler, a lot has been done to move the businesses forward. The synergies possible between Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler have been fully utilized. Additional potential for collaboration is limited between two businesses operating in such different market segments. The strong volatility and pressure on margins in the Chrysler Group's North American core market have an increasingly negative impact on DaimlerChrysler's overall profitability and share-price development.

The Chrysler Group has made substantial progress in recent years. For example, production hours per vehicle have fallen from 48 hours in 2001 to just over 30 at present. Quality has improved by more than 40% over the past six years. Since 2002, more than $10 billion has been invested in new production facilities and technologies. And with 34 new models since 2001, Chrysler has one of the youngest product lines in the industry.

Zetsche: "As a result, Chrysler today is structurally more sound than its North American based competitors. And with Cerberus as a partner, Chrysler will have the best chances of utilizing its full potential."

Ongoing collaboration

Existing projects with the Mercedes Car Group will be continued, for example in the development of conventional and alternative drive systems, purchasing, and sales and financial services outside the NAFTA region. Furthermore, a Joint Automotive Council will be established in which representatives of both sides will assess and decide on the potential of new and current projects. The Council will be led by board-level members from each company.

Zetsche: "We very much look forward to our continued cooperation as business partners, as we want to continue to reap the mutual benefits of working together. That's one of the reasons why we're retaining a 19.9% equity position in Chrysler."

New Daimler AG

Due to the new corporate structure, the name of DaimlerChrysler AG is to be changed to Daimler AG. A decision on this is to be taken by the shareholders at an Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting probably in fall 2007.

The Board of Management of the new company will be reduced to six members. Tom LaSorda, Eric Ridenour and Tom Sidlik will leave the Board of Management with the Group's sincere thanks.

There will no longer be a separate board position for procurement in the new Daimler AG. In the future, all procurement activities will be directly coordinated between the divisions. Within the Board of Management, Bodo Uebber will additionally assume overall responsibility for procurement.

The leadership teams of the Mercedes Car Group, the Truck Group and Financial Services will remain unchanged, as will the teams in the vans and buses businesses.

Zetsche: "We've done our homework in our corporate functions and in all of our divisions. As a result of our strategic review, we have a well-defined roadmap to lead us into a good future."

The Mercedes Car Group will generate a return on sales of at least 7% this year, with higher rates to follow in the coming years.

The Truck Group will achieve an average return on sales of 7% over the cycle as of 2008. This represents a return on net assets of approximately 30%.

DaimlerChrysler is also a world leader and profitability benchmark for buses. And in the vans business, which is performing very well, the new Sprinter will continue the success story of its predecessor.

The Financial Services division aims to earn a return on equity of more than 14%.

Growth perspectives

Zetsche: "We have a strong starting position. We have an above-average financial power. And our future prospects are promising." The Group has defined the following main areas for continued growth:

-- Further expansion in the core business, which means in the traditional
segments that are the most profitable and have the highest growth
rates, as well as exploiting new market opportunities on a regional
basis.
-- Continued development of innovative, customer-oriented and tailor-made
services and activities, pursuing opportunities both up and down the
value chain.
-- Strengthening leadership in sustainable, responsible and
environmentally friendly technologies.

By focusing on these three areas, Daimler's full potential is to be exploited and enterprise value is to be increased further through profitable and sustainable growth. Daimler intends to do this on its own, while continuing to benefit from opportunities of scale with Chrysler.

Zetsche on Daimler's goals: "We will be the leading manufacturer of premium products and a provider of premium services in every market segment we serve worldwide. And we will pursue our commitment to excellence based on a common culture, a great heritage of innovation and pioneering achievements and - with Mercedes-Benz - the strongest automotive brand in the world.

Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., New York, is one of the largest private investment firms in the world, with approximately $23.5 billion under management in funds and accounts. Founded in 1992, Cerberus currently has significant investments in more than 50 companies that, in aggregate, generate more than $60 billion in annual revenues worldwide.

For the reader's convenience, the financial information has been translated from euros into US dollars at an assumed rate of EUR1 = $1.35. The convenience translation does not mean that the euro amounts actually represent the corresponding dollar amounts stated or that they could be converted into dollars at the assumed rate.

Source: DaimlerChrysler AG

Posted by Frank at 7:13 AM

Ford's new Taurus a safety pick

The revived 2008 Ford Taurus-Mercury Sable sedan was named a top safety pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety today, one of 18 models to receive the designation for crashworthiness.

The institute also said it had designated the 2007Acura MDX sport-utility vehicle a top pick.

Only vehicles that score high marks in the institute's front and side crash tests, offer electronic stability control and protect against whiplash injuries -- a key concern of auto insurance companies -- can be named a top pick.

The Taurus, formerly known as the Ford Five Hundred sedan, and the mechanically identical Sable offer electronic stability control as optional equipment. Stability control is standard on the MDX.

Posted by Frank at 7:12 AM

Chevy dealers go on the offensive

Chevrolet plans to seek conquest buyers for the 2008 Malibu by asking dealers to do the unthinkable: Put a Toyota Camry in the showroom for comparison.

Cheryl Catton, Chevrolet's director of car marketing, "encouraged us to get a Camry and put it in the showroom so people can see the difference in styling, the interior, pricing and features," said one dealer. Catton suggested dealers rent a car.

Production of the restyled, re-engineered Malibu starts in October, and advertising begins in January, according to the dealers. A Chevrolet spokesman declined to comment on plans to promote the Malibu.

With 448,445 sales last year, the Camry was the best-selling car in the United States. The Malibu, with 163,853 units sold, ranked 11th.

Posted by Frank at 7:11 AM

Porsche Mobil1 Supercup: Victory and points lead for Richard Westbrook

Stuttgart -- Richard Westbrook (31) dictated the pace of the leading pack at round three of the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup in Barcelona. Taking up the race from fourth on the grid, the Briton first overtook Alessandro Zampedri (37) from Italy and Christian Menzel (35, Germany).

In lap six the reigning Supercup champion then snatched the lead from pole-sitter Patrick Huisman (40). Westbrook won in a time of 26:20.032 minutes, with a 5.462 second advantage over quadruple Supercup champion Huisman.

Menzel and Ireland's Damien Faulkner battled for position three right up until the final lap. With just a 0.212 second advantage, Menzel finally prevailed over his rival. The ex-DTM pilot Jeroen Bleekemolen (25, Netherlands) claimed fifth position at his debut race in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup.

Both Porsche-UPS Junior team pilots, Lance David Arnold (Germany) and Martin Ragginger (Austria), made a commendable start into the 2007 Supercup season, in which the pair will contest six rounds. Arnold crossed the finish line in seventh, with his Austrian team mate securing ninth at his first Supercup race. Hot on Ragginger's bumper, the Spanish sportscar pilot Miguel Angel de Castro (37) saw the chequered flag in tenth at the wheel of a Porsche Design guest vehicle with the starting number 88.

With his victory on the Circuit de Catalunya Westbrook heads the drivers championship of the world's fastest international one-make series with 52 points, ahead of 30-year-old Damien Faulkner (50 points) and Alessandro Zampedri (42 points). Uwe Alzen (39, Germany) travels home from Barcelona without any points and is relegated from the top of the points table to now sit fourth overall.

The fourth championship round of the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup takes place on 27th May at the Monaco Grand Prix on the Circuit de Monaco.

Richard Westbrook (winner): “When you get such a perfectly prepared car to drive you wish the race would never end. This was undoubtedly one of the best races in my life.”

Patrick Huisman (second): “I'm happy to have my first podium result with my Konrad team. We still need to do some testing in order to optimise the team operations. For this reason we're heading off to Budapest before we go to Monaco. This should help us secure a victory from the next few rounds. I'm looking forward to the race in Monaco – I love that street circuit.”

Christian Menzel (third): “My car improved over the race distance. Compared to Richard Westbrook I have to push my car more and for this reason I put too much stress on my tyres. Still, it's a wonderful feeling to climb the podium again and to gaze out upon the many spectators.”

Miguel Angel de Castro (tenth): “Unfortunately I messed up my start and lost several positions. Still, I'm content with my lap times and I had a very good feeling for the car.”

Klaus Berning, Executive Vice President for sales and marketing at Porsche AG: “This is my first Porsche Mobil1 Supercup race, and I'm impressed by the professionalism of the series. The competition is very high, the drivers are fair with each other, and still there are a great deal of overtaking manoeuvres.”

Race result:

1. Richard Westbrook (GB), HISAQ® Competition, 1:50.476 mins. (151.689 kph)
2. Patrick Huisman (NL), Konrad Motorsport, 5.462 seconds behind
3. Christian Menzel (D), tolimit, 8.393
4. Damien Faulkner (IR), Lechner Racing Team Bahrain, 8.605
5. Jeroen Bleekemolen (NL), Bleekemolen Race Planet PZ Essen, 9.494
6. Alessandro Zampedri (I), Lechner Racing Team Bahrain, 10.437
7. Lance David Arnold (D), UPS Porsche Junior Team, 12.050
8. Nicolas Armindo (F), tolimit, 15.225
9. Martin Ragginger (A), UPS Porsche Junior Team, 20.429
10. Miguel Angel de Castro (E), Porsche AG, 20.869
11. Sebastiaan Bleekemolen (NL), Bleekemolen Race Planet PZ Essen, 22.445
12. Michael Schrey (D), HISAQ® Competition, 22.742
13. Olivier Maximin (F), MRS-Team PZ Aschaffenburg, 23.042
14. David Saelens (B), Team IRWIN SAS, 25.993
15. Fabrice Walfisch (F), Golden Spike Pertamina Indonesia Racing Team PZ Essen, 26.567
16. Stefan Rosina (SK), Lechner Racing School Team, 26.934
17. Emilio de Villota (E), Konrad Motorsport, 30.083
18. Marc Hynes (GB), Team IRWIN SAS, 31.737
19. Richard Williams (GB), Racing Team Indonesia PZ Essen RA Beheer, 32.732
20. Darryl O’Young (HK), Schnabl Engineering-LKM-Team Jebsen, 33.812
21. Phil Quaife (GB), Racing Team Indonesia PZ Essen RA Beheer, 35.292
22. Menno Kuus (NL), Harders Plaza Racing PZ Essen, 35.815
23. Simon Frederiks (NL), HSF/Porsche Eindhoven, 42.556
24. Mikael Forsten (SF), Lechner Racing School Team, 46.556
25. Paul van Splunteren (NL), HSF/Porsche Eindhoven, 1:35.687
26. Robert van den Berg (NL), Harders Plaza Racing PZ Essen, 1 lap
27. William Langhorne (USA), MRS-Team PZ Aschaffenburg, 1 lap

Not classified:
Uwe Alzen (D), SPS performance, DNF
Jiri Janak (CZ), Schnabl Enigneering-LKM-Team Jebsen, DNF
Hannes Plesse (D), tolimit, DNF

Fastest lap:
Richard Westbrook, 1:51.637min = 150.111kmh in lap 5

Posted by Frank at 2:31 AM

May 13, 2007

Porsche First Look: 2008 911 Turbo Cabriolet

480 Horsepower Convertible Offers Super Car Performance Making It The Ultimate Open Top Sports Car From Porsche

ATLANTA – There is nothing soft about this soft top.

Beginning September 8, sports car drivers who love extreme high performance and the whimsy of feeling the sun and the wind will be able to have the best of both worlds when Porsche unleashes its ultimate open-air 911 sports car – the new 2008 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

Continuing the company’s esteemed 20-year tradition of pairing a classic soft top with extreme Porsche 911 Turbo performance, this 2+2 seater can reach speeds of nearly 200 mph and accelerate from a stop to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Starting at $136,500, the all-wheel-drive 911 Turbo Cabriolet is available with the same 3.6-liter, six-cylinder, twin-turbocharged boxer engine that delivers 480 horsepower in the 911 Turbo Coupe.

The 911 Turbo Cabriolet uses a light, three-layer soft top that can be opened and closed at speeds of up to about 30 mph in just 20 seconds. Once open, the car boasts top-down beauty and sophistication in its extensive details: including hand-stitched leather, a high-performance Bose Surround Sound System stereo with settings ideal for top down driving, a wind buffeting system, Bi-Xenon headlights, 19-inch forged wheels with two-tone appearance and Porsche Communication Management (PCM) – a sophisticated entertainment and navigation system that seamlessly combines audio, navigation and timing features.

Still, the 911 Turbo Cabriolet not only has the competence and capacity of a true super sports car; because of its new turbo technology, its 2+2 configuration and ample compartments it is the perfect daily driver for business and pleasure.

In addition to extensive passive safety features, including six airbags and full rollover protection, the 911 Turbo Cabriolet other active safety features include a race-bred braking system, an automatic rear spoiler for high-speed grip in the rear, as well as an array of directional and traction control systems that work in conjunction with the car’s secure all-wheel-drive system.

Posted by Frank at 7:17 AM

Porsche-Mobil1-Supercup -- Patrick Huisman takes pole position

Stuttgart -- In qualifying for the third round of the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup in Barcelona the 32 competitors provided an extra portion of suspense. The first six pilots were separated by just just two-tenths of a second. Quadruple Supercup champion Patrick Huisman (Netherlands) secured his twentieth pole position in the world's fastest international one-make race series. The 40-year-old professional racer claimed his top time in 1:50.476 minutes.

Trailing the Dutchman by a mere 0.062 seconds was Christian Menzel (35) from Germany, who brought his 400 hp Porsche GT3 Cup home in a time of 1:50.538 minutes to clinch a front row position, narrowly ahead of Alessandro Zampedri (31) from Italy. In fourth, reigning champion Richard Westbrook (31) from Great Britain also secured an excellent starting position for the 14-lap race which gets underway on Sunday at 11.25am.

Former DTM pilot Jeroen Bleekemolen (25) put in a particularly good qualifying performance. The Dutchman takes turns in the cockpit of the Supercup Porsche with his father Michael, who contested the first two rounds in Bahrain.

The two UPS Porsche Junior team pilots, Lance David Arnold and Martin Ragginger also joined the action for the first time in the 2007 Supercup season. Arnold planted his Porsche on seventh position, trailed by Nicolas Armindo in eighth. Arnold's Austrian team mate Ragginger turned the ninth quickest time in only his third qualifying ever at the wheel of a Porsche.

Spain's sportscar pilot Pilot Miguel Angel de Castro (37) piloted the Porsche Design guest car with starting number 88. He takes up his debut race in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup from eleventh on the grid.

Points leader Uwe Alzen faces a particularly tough challenge for Sunday's race. Hampered by technical problems in qualifying, the German takes up the race from position 30.

Patrick Huisman (pole-sitter): ”It was clear to me right at the start that I had to do my flying lap with new tyres straight off. The longer the qualifying session goes, the slower the Circuit de Catalunya becomes. It's always been like that here.”

Christian Menzel (second in qualifying): ”It's a great feeling to start from the first row again. I'm really looking forward to the duel at the start against Huisman.”

Alessandro Zampedri (third in qualifying): ”Okay, it wasn't the best lap but I'm happy with position three. It's good that I can start from the better side.”

Richard Westbrook (fourth in qualifying): ”Unfortunately I didn't get a clear lap in and so I'm disappointed with fourth.”

Lance David Arnold (seventh in qualifying): “Seventh on the grid is okay, especially considering I'm only four-tenths of a second behind the pole-setter.”

Martin Ragginger (ninth in qualifying): “I'm lacking a bit of experience. I made a slight error in my quickest lap so I'm hoping that I can make up for it in the race.”

Miguel Angel de Castro (11th in qualifying): “Actually, I had hoped for a better result than eleventh here on my home circuit. But I can now see how good these Supercup guys are. I can't blame it on the car either – the GT3 has great power, great brakes, and first-class gear-shifting.”

Television station “Eurosport“ broadcasts the race on Sunday (13th May) live from 11.15 am (CET).

Qualifying result:

1. Patrick Huisman (NL), Konrad Motorsport, 1:50.476 minutes (151.689 km/h)
2. Christian Menzel (D), tolimit, , 0.062 seconds behind
3. Alessandro Zampedri (I), Lechner Racing Team Bahrain, 0.112
4. Richard Westbrook (GB), HISAQ® Competition, 0.134
5. Jeroen Bleekemolen (NL), Bleekemolen Race Planet PZ Essen, 0.176
6. Nicolas Armindo (F), tolimit, 0.192
7. Lance David Arnold (D), UPS Porsche Junior Team, 0.393
8. Damien Faulkner (IR), Lechner Racing Team Bahrain 0.455
9. Martin Ragginger (A), UPS Porche Junior Team, 0.474
10. David Saelens (B), Team IRWIN SAS, 0.692
11. Miguel Angel de Castro (E), Porsche AG, 0,872
12. Sebastiaan Bleekemolen (NL), Bleekemolen Race Planet PZ Essen, 0.931
13. Olivier Maximin (F), MRS-Team PZ Aschaffenburg, 0.951
14. Michael Schrey (D), HISAQ® Competition, 0.964
15. Richard Williams (GB), Racing Team Indonesia PZ Essen RA Beheer, 1.048
16. Jiri Janak (CZ), Schnabl Enigneering-LKM-Team Jebsen, 1.116
17. Fabrice Walfisch (F), Golden Spike Pertamina Indonesia Racing Team PZ Essen , 1.163
18. Stefan Rosina (SK), Lechner Racing School Team, 1.185
19. Phil Quaife (GB), Racing Team Indonesia PZ Essen RA Beheer, 1.283
20. Robert van den Berg (NL), Harders Plaza Racing PZ Essen, 1.352
21. Darryl O’Young (HK), Schnabl Engineering-LKM-Team Jebsen, 1.412
22. Emilio de Villota (E), Konrad Motorsport, 1.521
23. Marc Hynes (GB), Team IRWIN SAS, 1.630
24. William Langhorne (USA), MRS-Team PZ Aschaffenburg, 1.696
25. Paul van Splunteren (NL), HSF/Porsche Eindhoven, 1.815
26. Mikael Forsten (SF), Lechner Racing School Team, 2.202
27. Hannes Plesse (D), tolimit, 2.256
28. Simon Frederiks (NL), HSF/Porsche Eindhoven, 2.388
29. Menno Kuus (NL), Harders Plaza Racing PZ Essen, 2.568
30. Uwe Alzen (D), SPS performance, 5,025
Maher Algadri (AUS), Golden Spike Pertamina Indonesia Racing Team PZ Essen, 8.774
(not qualified)
Nemunas Dagilis (LIT), SPS performance, 9.910 (not qualified)

Posted by Frank at 7:15 AM

Pontiac's '08 G8 revving on rear wheel drive

CHICAGO – Confirming its commitment to style and performance, Pontiac introduced a show car version of an all-new, rear-wheel-drive performance sedan at the Chicago Auto Show. The 2008 Pontiac G8 will be available in dealerships early next year.

“With the balance of rear-wheel drive and the availability of V-8 power, the G8 represents another step in Pontiac ’s commitment to its performance DNA,” said John Larson, Pontiac general manager. “Added to the Solstice and the recently announced additions of the G6 and Torrent to the GXP series, the G8 demonstrates that Pontiac has never been more serious about the business of performance – and we expect this vehicle to be very competitive in the segment, even against cars that cost far more.”

The G8 is the first North American application of GM’s new global rear-wheel-drive architecture developed by Holden, GM’s Australian subsidiary.

G8 GT show car details

The G8 show car unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show is representative of the production GT model, including use of the 362-horsepower (270 kW) 6.0L V-8 engine and optional six-speed manual transmission. The show car also features some unique items not found on the production model, including:

* Twenty-inch “shadow chrome” wheels and performance tires
* Ride height lowered approximately half-inch
* High-performance brake rotors with painted brake calipers
* Custom interior trim color, including a leather-wrapped dash
* Exclusive exterior paint color: Phantom Grey
* Concept of “modernized” Pontiac badge, to gauge public opinion.

Production model details

The 2008 Pontiac G8 lineup will offer two models: G8 and G8 GT. Each will come with a host of standard performance, convenience and safety features, including:

* Four-wheel independent suspension
* Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and traction control
* Electronic stability control
* 18-inch aluminum wheels (19-inch wheels available with sport package)
* Seat-mounted thorax air bags and dual-stage frontal air bags for front passengers, with automatic passenger sensing system
* Roof rail side-impact air bags for both seating rows
* OnStar
* XM Satellite Radio
* Power-adjustable front seats
* Fog lamps
* Chrome exhaust tips
* Rear lip spoiler

A sport package will be available for both models and adds features such as specific wheels – including 19-inch aluminum wheels and performance tires on GT – a rear wing spoiler, leather shift knob, leather-wrapped steering wheel and alloy pedals.

Design

The G8 has a progressive styling package highlighted by strong Pontiac design cues, such as a dual-port grille, fog lamps, bold wheels and a confident, wheels-at-the-corners stance. The design accents the car’s performance lineage, with fenders that flare over the wheels, seemingly hugging the wide tires and enhancing the sporting stance.

Distinctive elements include hood scoops and front fender vents, as well as projector-beam headlamps housed in crystal-clear lenses. At the rear, jewel-like taillamps also are mounted in housings and feature bright detail work surrounding the red lighting elements. G8 models have red taillamp lenses and twin chrome exhaust outlets, while G8 GT models feature clear taillamp lenses and quad chrome exhaust tips. All models have an antenna mounted at the rear of the roof.

Powertrain

The base G8 model receives a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing, rated at 261 horsepower (194 kW). It is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.

The G8 GT is powered by a uniquely configured 6.0L small-block V-8, rated at 362 horsepower (270 kW) and 391 lb.-ft. of torque (530 Nm). A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode is standard and features the fuel-saving Active Fuel Management system, which enhances fuel economy by alternating between eight- and four-cylinder power. An optional six-speed manual transmission will be available soon after launch.

A limited-slip rear differential is standard with GT models.

Suspension system

A 114.8-inch (2915 mm) wheelbase, wide front ( 62.7 inches / 1592 mm) and rear ( 63.3 inches / 1608 mm) tracks, and a fully adjustable, four-wheel independent suspension system combine to give the G8 a confident, sharp driving experience.

The four-wheel independent suspension system employs a MacPherson strut design in the front and a four-link coil-over-shock design in the rear. Tuning is specific between the base and GT models, but both models use a direct-acting front stabilizer bar, decoupled rear stabilizer bar and lateral ball joints on the rear suspension. This system delivers increased lateral stiffness for enhanced handling.

The front suspension features fully adjustable caster, camber and toe; the rear suspension has fully adjustable camber and toe, which enables more precise, tailored suspension tuning.

Brake system

A four-wheel disc brake system includes standard anti-lock and traction control features and is partnered with a standard electronic stability control system. Both the base and GT models feature vented front and rear disc rotors, with twin-piston alloy calipers in front; the rear brakes feature alloy calipers with single-piston actuation. The brakes are approximately one-inch larger on the higher-performance GT model.

Interior

Designed to meld form and function with world-class fit and finish, the G8’s interior delivers both comfort and convenience, packaged in a level of sophistication not often found in its price range. A driver-oriented instrument cluster positions the gauges for easy, direct line of sight; an electronic driver information center is located between the large, round tachometer and speedometer.

Attention to detail includes jewel-like instruments, selective use of satin and chrome trim and rich-feeling, grained textures throughout. The instrument cluster glows with crisp, white light on the primary instruments and Pontiac ’s signature red lighting illuminates the rest of the instrument panel cluster.

The seats offer firm support to hold occupants in place during aggressive cornering; all seats were designed to deliver excellent comfort during long drives. Cloth seating surfaces are standard, with heated leather seating available. G8 GT models will also offer an optional two-tone cloth or leather combination that pairs black with either red or blue inserts and color-matched instrument faces on certain exterior color combinations.

Posted by Frank at 7:06 AM

Upcoming: Brady Quinn's getting a HUMMER H2

WHO: Brady Quinn, Rookie Quarterback, Cleveland Browns
Martin Walsh, General Manager of HUMMER Division
Frank Porter, Jr. dealer, Central HUMMER East, Beachwood

WHAT: Brady Quinn will take delivery of a HUMMER H2 loaned to him for one year by General Motors' HUMMER Division

WHEN: Monday, May 14, 2007 at 11 a.m. EDT

WHERE: Central HUMMER East
25975 Central Parkway
Beachwood, OH 44122

Posted by Frank at 6:57 AM

GM Names Executives to Key Marketing Positions

DETROIT – General Motors announced moves within its North America Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing (VSSM) staff today. Effective immediately:

* Jim Bunnell, 51, has been appointed divisional general manager, Buick-Pontiac-GMC, replacing John Larson, who left GM to pursue an outside opportunity. He was previously general manager of the North Central region.

* Steve Hill, 46, replaces Bunnell as the North Central regional general manager. He was formerly executive director, Retail Planning and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Marketing.

“These appointments will leverage and broaden the knowledge and experience of these individuals, helping us to maintain our focus on our overall retail sales objectives and the B-P-G retail channel in particular,” said Mike Jackson, GMNA Vice President, Marketing and Advertising.

Posted by Frank at 6:56 AM

Volvo picks Boston as Ocean Race stopover city

Boston -- The U.S. East Coast port city of Boston has been formally announced as the stopover for the 2008-09 Volvo Ocean Race as the fleet sails to Europe after leaving South America on its 39,000 nautical mile round-the-world odyssey.

The long-awaited news that Boston would replace Baltimore as the port of call was announced at a ceremony here to introduce the Boston-based entry for the world's premier offshore ocean race which begins in Alicante, Spain, in October 2008.

The U.S. entry will be skippered by top American sailor Ken Read and sponsored by the global sport lifestyle company PUMA which has its North American and international brand headquarters in the historic U.S. city, where billions of dollars have been spent on reclaiming the harbour under its Save the Harbor/Save the Port project.

PUMA Global introduced Read, the training boat and the PUMA Racing Team at a function in the Boston Harbor Hotel attended by Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, PUMA CEO Jochen Zeitz, Volvo Ocean Race CEO Glenn Bourke, Save the Harbor President Patricia A. Foley, and Secretary Daniel O'Connell of Massachusetts.

Bourke said that the confirmation of Boston as a host port was a welcome addition to the new ground-breaking route which includes the Middle East and Asia for the first time in the race's 34-year history.

"Boston has a proud association with international sailing and sailors. There has been great enthusiasm from everyone involved in making the Boston stopover happen. I fully expect that Boston will put on a tremendous show when the race comes to town," he said.

"It's also a major fillip for the Volvo Ocean Race and the sport of sailing to have involvement from an iconic global consumer brand such as PUMA," he added.

"There is definitely synergy between us - the Volvo Ocean Race leads the way on advanced design with the Volvo Open 70, while PUMA brings great energy and creativity to the design of their sports lifestyle products," Bourke said

PUMA officials have worked closely with the local government in Boston to help bring the Volvo Ocean Race to the city.

City of Boston Mayor, Thomas M. Menino said: "We are delighted that Boston has been selected as the only North American stopover for the 2008-2009 Volvo Ocean Race.

"World Class events like this, with great partners like PUMA, Volvo and Save the Harbor/Save the Bay give folks from our neighbourhoods and visitors from across the region and around the world another reason to rediscover all that Boston Harbor and waterfront have to offer."

Two weeks of festivals and local events are planned during mid-May 2009, to celebrate the arrival and departure of the Volvo Ocean Race, Boston's maritime history and the sport of sailing.

A point-scoring in-port race will be held in Boston Harbour if the wind is in a favourable direction. Alternatively the race will be held just outside the harbour.

A pro-am race, which takes place in every host port the day after the in-port race, will be held inside the harbour with racing close by to Fan Pier and Rowes Wharf. The pro-am race is not a points scoring race and does not have a set course enabling it to be tailored to suit each venue and making it a close-to-shore spectator event.

Every boat in the Volvo fleet will take part, and will be sailed by half its normal race crew, with the remainder being made up of specially invited guests.

At the ceremony in Boston, PUMA Racing Team unveiled its colours on the newly-painted training boat, the former ABN AMRO TWO. "This is a special day as we introduce our PUMA Racing Team and unveil the colours of our boat in this wonderful setting of Boston Harbor," said Jochen Zeitz, CEO and Chairman, PUMA AG.

"We are extremely pleased that the City of Boston, the State of Massachusetts and Save the Harbor are welcoming the Volvo Ocean Race as an official port of call and, as a company, we are proud to be able to call Boston the home of our North American and international brand headquarters for more than a decade."

Patricia A. Foley, President, Save the Harbor/Save the Bay said: "With billions of public dollars invested in the Boston Harbor Clean-up and the Big Dig, and billions more invested in new waterfront development, we are looking forward to the fantastic opportunity that this stopover will provide to share the harbor with Bostonians, regional residents and visitors from around the world."

"The Volvo Ocean Race is about the power of the sea, the wind, and the sun - and the power of people with the courage to follow their dreams," she continued. "It will provide us with a unique platform to share the message that clean water matters, and that people with the courage of their convictions can make the planet a better place."

PUMA announced its entry into the Volvo Ocean Race in late March. Skipper Ken Read was on-hand for the unveiling of the boat, after bringing her up to Boston from her training base in Newport, Rhode Island.

The Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09 will be the 10th running of this famous ocean marathon. Starting from Alicante, it will for the first time, take in ports in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, China and India. Spanning some 39,000 nautical miles, 8,000 more than the previous edition in 2005-06, it will stop at around 11 ports and take more than nine months to complete.

Posted by Frank at 6:46 AM

VW to Porsche: Ante up, Hans

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT AND SUPERVISORY BOARD OF VOLKSWAGEN AG PUBLISH STATEMENTS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY OFFER OF PORSCHE

WOLFSBURG, Germany - The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft have independently of each other prepared and today published their Statements pursuant to § 27 of the German Securities Acquisition and Takeover Act (Wertpapiererwerbs- und Übernahmegesetz) concerning the public Mandatory Offer made by Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft.

Both corporate bodies have independently of each other reviewed the Mandatory Offer, in particular the consideration offered for the Volkswagen Ordinary and Preference Shares. The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board have each reached a unanimous decision. During the decision making of the Supervisory Board, Supervisory Board members Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Piëch, Dr. Wendelin Wiedeking and Holger P. Härter abstained from voting. The Statements of the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board contain, inter alia, the following comments:

On the basis of and in consideration of various financial analyses, the Board of Management have convinced themselves that the fundamental value of Volkswagen Shares exceeds the Offer Price for the Volkswagen Ordinary and Preference Shares. With regard to this valuation and the fact that the stock exchange prices for Volkswagen Shares are currently higher than the Offer Prices, the Board of Management cannot recommend the acceptance of the Mandatory Offer.

On the basis of the financial analyses available to the Supervisory Board and the current stock exchange prices of Volkswagen Shares the Supervisory Board concurs with the Management Board's assessment and also comes to the conclusion that it cannot recommend the acceptance of the Mandatory Offer.

Irrespective of this fact, the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board point out that each and every Volkswagen Shareholder will have to make their own decision as to whether and by how many Volkswagen Shares they accept the Offer made by Porsche taking into account the overall situation, their own individual circumstances and personal assessment of the potential of the future development of the company, its intrinsic value and the stock exchange price of the Volkswagen Shares.

By making reference to the statutory minimum price Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft offers to pay Volkswagen Shareholders EUR 100.92 per Ordinary Share and EUR 65.54 per Preference Share. The Acceptance Period of the Mandatory Offer commenced on 30 April 2007 and will expire on 29 May 2007.

Posted by Frank at 6:39 AM

Europeans race their own damn Mustangs

* Customer teams debuted the Mustang FR500C in GT4 European Cup competition and the Mustang FR500GT in FIA GT3 competition this past weekend at Silverstone in Great Britain.

* The Mustang FR500C won the first-ever GT4 European Cup race with driver Gunnar Jeannette.

DEARBORN -- After successfully completing the homologation process for GT4 European Cup and FIA GT3 competition, the Mustang FR500C and Mustang FR500GT made their competition debuts this past weekend at Silverstone in Great Britain with the FR500C racing to victory.

The Multimatic-entered Mustang FR500C won the inaugural GT4 European Cup race on Sunday in the hands of driver Gunnar Jeannette, while a TopSpeed-entered FR500GT driven by Kenneth Heyer and Eric De Doncker finished 29 th in GT3.

“We are very pleased that both of our Mustang race cars have completed the homologation process and now are officially in competition,” said Dan Davis, director of Ford Racing Technology. “We’ve said from the start that this would be a customer program, and we believe both race cars will be very competitive in these series once the teams have time to work with them. To have the Mustang FR500C win its first race is just icing on the cake to the race weekend.”

This victory marks the second time the FR500C has won its initial appearance in a professional racing series. The first came in the 2005 KONI Challenge Series (then known as Grand-Am Cup) season opener at Daytona International Speedway en route to capturing the series’ driver, team and manufacturer championships. This season, it has won all three KONI Challenge races and currently leads the driver, team and manufacturer standings.

The Mustang racing programs in Europe are strictly a customer-based venture, initiated by U.S.-based Ford Racing as an extension of its performance parts program. With the Ford Mustang only available for sale in North American, Ford’s European racing operations are aware of the program, however there is no involvement on its part.

For this effort, Ford Racing has once again partnered with Multimatic Motorsports, which assisted in the homologation process for both vehicles. Multimatic is the exclusive sales representative and distributor of homologated FR500GT and FR500C Mustangs for FIA GT3 and GT4 European Cup competition and is responsible for supplying spare parts and actively interfacing with teams and sanctioning bodies.

All customer inquiries for these programs in Europe should be directed to Peter Studer at Multimatic Motorsports:

Peter Studer
20 Fison Way
Thetford, Norfolk 1P24 1HJ United Kingdom

Posted by Frank at 6:36 AM

Nissan Supports 30-City MADD Strides For Change Program

DALLAS – Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and national presenting sponsor Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) announce the 2007 Strides for Change walk season taking place in 30 cities nationwide. The organizations encourage families to honor their mothers and fathers this season by supporting the walks and challenge companies nationwide to help MADD reach its $2 million lifesaving goal.

“With Mother’s Day and Father’s Day being celebrated very soon, we just ask the public to honor their loved ones by participating or donating to the walks and for companies to designate walk teams nationwide in support of safer roadways,” said Glynn Birch, MADD national president. “Nissan has raised the bar for other corporations by supporting Strides for Change three years in a row and we know there are many others that can step up to the plate,” Birch added.

For the last three years, MADD and Nissan have shared a common commitment to keeping communities and children safe, and promoting safe driving nationwide. In addition to serving as the national presenting sponsor of the Strides for Change events, Nissan employees will form teams around the country to walk and raise money.

“Our ongoing work with MADD underscores our commitment to automotive safety beyond creating advanced safety technologies. By working with MADD, we are able to help educate drivers nationwide on many automotive safety aspects and make them aware of the consequences of their decisions,” said Robert Yakushi, director of product safety, environmental, NNA.

Strides for Change is a 5K, non-competitive fun walk that enables corporations and individuals to team up with MADD to keep children and communities safe. Participants form teams of 10 or more and are asked to raise $100 each through pledges. During the 2006 walks, more than $1.6 million was raised and more than 12,000 walkers participated nationwide. For 2007, the fourth year for Strides for Change, MADD has increased its walk sites by more than 25 percent and expects to raise an additional $600,000 through its efforts.

The first 2007 Strides for Change walks kicked off in Raleigh, N.C.; Phoenix, Ariz. and Columbus, Ohio. For a complete list of Strides for Change locations, visit www.stridesforchange.org. Walks include child seat safety demonstrations provided by Nissan in support of its Snug Kids™ and Quest for Safety™ programs aimed at educating parents and caregivers on the importance of proper child seat safety installation. Additionally, there are victim/survivor tribute areas, a Kid’s Zone, a pet area, musical entertainment, and other fun activities for the whole community.

There are three options for participation in a walk: Register to walk or form a team in a nearby designated walk; raise money as a virtual walker, anywhere and anytime; give a one-time donation. To register, donate or get more information, visit www.stridesforchange.org.

About MADD
Founded in 1980, MADD's mission is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving calls for intensive, high visibility law enforcement, mandatory ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers, development and exploration of advanced vehicle-based technology and community support. MADD is a 501c(3) non-profit, grassroots organization with approximately 400 affiliates and 2 million members and supporters nationwide. For more information, please visit www.madd.org or call 1-800-GET-MADD.

Posted by Frank at 6:33 AM

Volvo advances safety for the pregnant driver and her unborn child

If a pregnant woman uses her safety belt correctly, the foetal injury risk is reduced significantly. This knowledge stems from Volvo Cars' research on car safety for unborn babies and their mothers. Volvo Cars has developed a virtual crash test dummy to simulate frontal impacts during pregnancy.

Car safety for unborn children is an area that is not well documented, since foetal injury and death often do not show in statistics. For the baby to remain unharmed in a car crash it is important with safety measures for the pregnant woman. The first thing to do is to always wear a safety belt, and yet not all women do.

Virtual pregnant crash test dummy
Volvo Cars contributes to an increased awareness of safety for pregnant drivers and knowledge of how to protect their unborn babies. One innovation in this field is a virtual pregnant crash test dummy. The model can be used to simulate how a pregnant woman moves in a crash and how the foetus moves inside her. Her proportions correspond to those of an average sized woman in the final stage of pregnancy, approximately week 36.

The virtual crash test dummy is used to simulate impact tests in frontal collisions. The computer model makes it possible to study in detail how the occupant moves and how the safety belt and airbag affect the woman and the foetus, including surrounding structures, says Lotta Jakobsson, Child Safety Specialist at Volvo Cars.

This means that the engineers can simulate the impact on mother and unborn baby in collisions at different speeds, and use the model to test for example safety belt designs under development.

Pregnant women should always wear a safety belt
It is always better to wear a safety belt than not to, and pregnant women like everyone else should make sure to always buckle up correctly. Do like this:

- Remove bulky clothes so that the safety belt can be placed as close to the body as possible.
- Pull the lap belt over the thighs, lying flat under the belly.
- Make sure the torso belt is positioned between the breasts.
- Pull tight.

The positioning of the safety belt is important so that the occupant is restrained over the body's stronger areas - like the upper torso and pelvis - thus protecting the weaker parts of the body, such as the soft abdomen containing the fragile foetus. Studies on the virtual pregnant crash test dummy show that the driver airbag offers protection for both the mother and the foetus.

Common injuries for unborn babies and their mothers
Injuries unique to pregnant occupants involved in crashes include placental abruption, uterine rupture or laceration and direct foetal injury. The most common type of injury is a separated placenta. The placenta then becomes partially or completely detached, meaning that the baby can not get enough oxygen and nutrients, which can be fatal for the baby.

- Our research shows that the best protection for pregnant women and their unborn babies is for the mother to wear her three-point safety belt, and to wear it properly. This reduces the foetal injury risk significantly, says Lotta Jakobsson.

How to fasten the safety belt when you are pregnant

* First adjust the seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably with as much distance between your belly and the steering wheel as possible.
* Pull the lap belt over your thighs, buckle it in and pull tight. Make sure the lap belt does not run across the belly, but lies as flat as possible under the curve.
* Position the torso belt across your chest, between the breasts to the side of the belly and pull tight.
* Never tuck the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back - that can hurt both you and the baby.

The virtual pregnant crash test dummy

- The finite element model known as the virtual pregnant crash test dummy was developed by Volvo Cars, the first of its kind.

- The model contains layer upon layer with detailed information about the uterus, placenta, amniotic fluid and foetus in approximately the 36th week of pregnancy.

- The dummy can be positioned in any car model and simulate collisions at different speeds.

- This has brought Volvo Cars to the important conclusion that pregnant women must always wear the safety belt and make sure to wear it correctly.

- Volvo Cars has also concluded that pregnant women are better protected in frontal impacts with an airbag in the steering wheel than without.

Posted by Frank at 6:19 AM

Mulally tells shareholders Ford is on track

WILMINGTON, Delaware - Ford President and Chief Executive Alan Mulally reassured shareholders Thursday that the automaker's turnaround plan was on track and that it was investing in environmentally friendly technologies amid concerns about climate change.

Mulally, making his first appearance before company shareholders, said Ford was taking "painful but necessary steps" to streamline costs and bring more accountability to the company with the goal of building "more of the products that people really want and value."

"We are moving quickly and making real progress, but it's going to take time to turn things around," Mulally said. He promised "clearly stated goals and candid assessments of our progress based on facts."

Posted by Frank at 6:18 AM

Carmakers turn back to incentives

If you’re in the market for a new pickup truck or sport utility vehicle, you might be better off waiting a month or two before you make a purchase.

After posting some rather dismal sales results for April, analysts expect the big automakers to do something this summer that they’ve been trying to avoid: bring back generous sales incentives to lure on-the-fence shoppers back into their showrooms.

A confluence of macroeconomic forces is driving the move, notes Jesse Toprak, executive director of industry analysis at automotive Web site Edmunds.com. He cited rising gasoline prices, which some say could hit $4 a gallon this summer, and weakening real estate prices, which have reduced the amount of cash that consumers have on hand for purchases. Both are having at least a psychological impact on would-be car buyers, he said.

Posted by Frank at 6:16 AM

Toyota says cost of making hybrids will fall

TOYOTA CITY, Japan - Toyota Motor Corp. expects to cut costs for hybrid cars enough to be able to make as much money on them as it does on conventional gasoline cars by around 2010, a top executive said on Thursday.

Japan's top automaker has been keen to see the fuel-saving powertrain enter the mainstream since launching the Prius, the world's first hybrid car, in 1997, but sales have come at the expense of profitability given their high production costs.

But Masatami Takimoto, executive vice president in charge of powertrain development, said cost-cutting efforts on the system's motor, battery and inverter were bearing fruit, and the cost structure would improve drastically by the time Toyota reaches its sales goal of one million hybrids annually in 2010 or soon after.

Posted by Frank at 6:15 AM

Grape seed oil serving double duty

NAPA, Calif. - Call it the biofuel boomerang. Valentin and Nanette Humer sell their gourmet grapeseed oil to upscale Napa Valley restaurants. Then, they pick up the used oil to run their company cars.

The fry 'em up, fill 'er up approach saves restaurants money, greases the wheels of recycling efforts and makes the Humers' wallets a little fatter, too.

"We haven't seen a gas station in two years," Valentin Humer said with a laugh.

Humer, founder and president of Napa-based Food & Vine Inc., is an Austrian-trained chef and hotelier who became interested in grapeseed oil more than 15 years ago.

He and his wife put together a taste panel of renowned chefs, including the late Jean-Louis Palladin, to develop a grapeseed oil they liked, then worked with a leading Italian producer to make their product. The oil, packaged in Napa, comes from France and Italy and is packaged in UV-protective bottles to maintain freshness. Their products include herb and spice-infused oils.

Grape seeds are a byproduct of the wine industry, left over along with the skins after crushing. It takes a lot of grape seeds to make grapeseed oil: About 1 ton of grapes makes about 1 liter, or 33 ounces, which sells for $16.95 on the company's Web site.

Posted by Frank at 6:10 AM

Toyota Awards $1.12 Million in Scholarships to 100 High School Seniors

Winners at Top of Class in Both Academics and Community Service

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., (TMS) rewarded 100 high school seniors with $1.12 million in college scholarships for their commitment to education and community service at an awards banquet tonight.

The winners, who make up the 11th class of Toyota Community Scholars, were chosen from a pool of more than 8,000 students nationwide nominated by their schools. To be eligible, students must be proven leaders both in the classroom and in their communities.

Based on the countless service projects conducted by the 2007 class, it is clear these 100 students view community service not as an obligation, but a way of life. As one Scholar, Brian Fontenot of Baytown, Texas, put it: "I have found that the influence volunteering has had on me is not one big factor, but many small details merged together, shaping who I am, how much I understand about life and teaching me compassion toward others."

For the 2007 class, their dreams of making a difference became reality through programs ranging from raising $25,000 toward the fight against muscular dystrophy to the promotion of hydrogen fuel cells as an alternative to gas-fueled engines to combating hunger through the growing of over 111,000 pounds of fresh vegetables that were then donated to local food pantries.

"What these 100 high school seniors have accomplished in regard to community service and academics at such a young age is truly amazing," said Michael Rouse, TMS corporate manager of philanthropy and community affairs. "Their commitment to helping those in need is inspiring. The future holds no limits; we are convinced they will have a very positive impact on the world around them."

The scholarships are valued at $20,000 or $10,000 each, over four years, for study at a four-year college or university starting in the fall of 2007. Since the Toyota Community Scholars program began in 1997, TMS has awarded over $12 million in scholarships to 1,100 students across the U.S.

Cristina Costantini, a Toyota Community Scholar from Milwaukee, Wis., is a prime example of the dedication to community service exhibited by this year's class. As the founder of "Bikes for Sierra Leone," Costantini oversaw a volunteer network that collected and refurbished over 300 bicycles for school- age children and teachers of this impoverished, war-ravaged country in Africa. (Because many students and teachers live three to seven miles from the nearest school, transportation is a significant barrier to education in Sierra Leone.)

Costantini organized a drive to collect bikes, school supplies and medical supplies -- plus raised the $8,800 it took to ship the items to Sierra Leone. In addition to the bikes, 70 computers and crates of supplies were donated.

Consequently, Costantini, like many of the Scholars, found community service to be the roadmap to what she wants to do in the future. "I am considering a career in the field of Foreign Service, and I hope someday to be involved in humanitarian projects on a larger scale."

The Toyota Community Scholars program is administered by Educational Testing Services in Princeton, N.J. The 12 national winners ($20,000 each) and 88 regional winners ($10,000 each) were selected by a panel of college and university admissions officials from across the U.S.

The scholarship winners were guests of honor tonight at an awards banquet in Louisville that was attended by education, community, business and government leaders. Rory Kennedy, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, was the keynote speaker.

The two-and-a-half-day program included a tour of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc., in Georgetown, which builds the Camry, Camry hybrid, Avalon and Solara vehicles. In addition, the Scholars cruised the Ohio River on the Belle of Louisville (a historic paddle wheeler), and participated in a "ride and drive" that put them behind the wheel of four Toyota vehicles: FJ Cruiser, Yaris, RAV4 and Camry.

2007 TOYOTA COMMUNITY SCHOLARS
Community Service Snapshots

Following is a small sampling of community service projects performed by the 2007 class of Toyota Community Scholars (more detail can be provided upon request; student interviews can also be arranged).

-- Organized the Swim-a-thon for Muscular Dystrophy, which has raised more
than $25,000 in five years for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
This Scholar has been involved with MDA since he was diagnosed with
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy more than 10 years ago. An avid swimmer,
he created the Swim-a-thon for Muscular Dystrophy in 1999 with his
local swim and dive team to raise funds for MDA and awareness among his
community about the plight of those affected by Muscular Dystrophy.
(Christopher Cassidy, Annandale, Va.)

-- Started Teen Trendsetters, a program that involves more than 65
students from his high school who dedicate two-and-a-half hours of
community service weekly. The high school students serve as mentors to
students at two local elementary schools. Members of Trendsetters have
organized field trips, dances and festivals for the elementary school
students they mentor. (Quintin Haynes, Rockledge, Fla.)

-- Founded Kids 4 Hydrogen, a non-profit organization that works to
educate students and adults about why hydrogen should become America's
energy choice of the future. She has given speeches and presentations
in California and beyond about Kids 4 Hydrogen and the importance of
alternative fuels. Arranged a meeting of the top 20 energy experts in
California at her school. Her research convinced her that hydrogen
fuel cells were a safe, reliable and feasible alternative to gas-fueled
engines. (Jaclyn D'Arcy, Soquel, Calif.)

-- After watching his mother battle cancer and hearing her account of
the time she received her first free wig during chemotherapy
treatments, this Scholar was inspired to help the San Jacinto Methodist
Hospital Cancer Center with their growing need for new or gently used
wigs and head coverings. That is when he founded HEADing for a Cure,
which collects wigs and head coverings for women battling cancer who
lost their hair during chemotherapy. Before HEADing for a Cure, the
Center had only five usable wigs. Today, it has over 75 wigs and
permanent donation sites throughout the community have been established
to continue expanding its inventory. (Brian Fontenot, Baytown, Texas)

-- Seeing a need in their community, this Scholar and her sister co-
founded Gardening for Families, a project that raises fresh vegetables
for food pantries and disadvantaged families. Since 2001, more than
111,000 pounds of fresh vegetables have been raised and donated by
Gardening for Families. She also established Project Growing Together,
which provides free garden plants and growing instructions to families
in need to help them reduce food shortages. (Kristi Williams, St.
Joseph, Mo.)

Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Posted by Frank at 6:07 AM

GM makes its big push into car-hungry India

MUMBAI, India -- A tiny car has never meant so much to General Motors Corp.

Hitting dealerships in India this month is the Chevrolet Spark, a car that's smaller than the Chevy Aveo and important enough to draw GM Chief Executive Officer Rick Wagoner to the other side of the world for its launch last month.

The Spark is the reason GM expects to nearly double its sales in India this year.

It's the company's biggest stride in a race to win over drivers in the world's second-fastest growing economy, where new jobs and low interest rates have created generations of new car buyers.

GM and seven other automakers plan to invest nearly $4 billion in India. The investments would double the number of cars produced in the country to nearly 3 million in the next decade.

The country's passenger vehicle sales grew 27% to 1.4 million vehicles last year. Those sales are expected to grow to 2 million by 2010 and to 3 million by 2015.

India's car market is critical to GM as it continues to lose money in North America and duels with Toyota Motor Corp. to be the world's largest automaker.

With the Spark, GM meets the competition on size and price. The sticker price on a Spark starts at 309,000 rupees, or about $7,500. GM expects to sell as many as 2,500 a month and drive its market share from less than 2% last year to 10% by 2010.

Posted by Frank at 6:06 AM

Magna learning Chrysler lessons

Struggling N.Y. plant challenges possible buyer

TORONTO -- A struggling driveline plant in Syracuse, N.Y., is probably the best example of what lies ahead for Magna International Inc. -- or any other buyer -- if it does end up buying the Chrysler Group.

Three years ago Magna entered into a deal with DaimlerChrysler to acquire 100% of New Venture Gear and its Syracuse factory by this year.

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"It's been a very problematic situation," said Dennis DesRosiers, an auto industry consultant in Canada. "It has not been an easy conversion."

The situation in Syracuse is quite different from Magna's many successful manufacturing operations: It's a large, old factory with a highly paid workforce represented by a union.

It's a scenario Magna is likely to find again and again in some form if it buys Chrysler -- and illustrates some of the difficulties the world's third-largest auto supplier would face as a full-fledged automaker.

Asked what Magna has learned at the Syracuse plant, Donald Western, a local economic development official, quipped: "The one thing they haven't learned is not to buy more Chrysler plants."

Posted by Frank at 6:05 AM

Report: Cerberus in detailed talks for Chrysler

CHICAGO -- DaimlerChrysler AG's efforts to sell its U.S.-based Chrysler gGroup unit appear to have focused on private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management LP, the Detroit News reported today. Citing people close to the sale process, the newspaper reported the German automaker has been in detailed talks with Cerberus rather than two other possible buyers, the Blackstone Group and Magna International.

Posted by Frank at 6:02 AM

May 12, 2007

Ferrari workers to strike despite workplace award

MILAN -- Ferrari workers plan to go back on strike on Saturday to demand a higher bonus and voice other grievances, even though the Italian luxury sports car maker was recently recognized as the best place to work in Europe.

The workers, who have gone on strike nearly every Saturday since March, also fear the quality of the cars is diminishing as the Fiat subsidiary raises its production targets year after year, according to a FIOM-CGIL union official.

"Ferrari is a national asset," Renzo Ferri, who represents about 20 percent of the workforce, told Reuters today. "We want a quality product."

Posted by Frank at 6:12 AM

May 11, 2007

The Mercedes R-Class -- an SUV Tourer offering a wealth of options

Stuttgart -- Even greater interior adaptability, two wheelbase lengths, rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive and new engine variants – the Mercedes-Benz R-Class now opens up even more possibilities, especially when it comes to seating arrangements.

The line-up, which includes the familiar configurations with up to six individual seats, has been augmented to include a five-seat version and a seven-seat variant. Plus new, distinctive bodystyling at the front and rear end lends the SUV Tourer added appeal.

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class continues to set trends. This exceptional automotive concept combines the acknowledged strengths of several vehicle classes. Exemplary touring comfort, superlative handling dynamics, a high level of adaptability, extremely spacious accommodation, including a vast luggage compartment, coupled with expressive design and hallmark Mercedes safety – the R-Class leaves very little to be desired.

For the first time, the SUV Tourer features a second row of seats for three people, giving a total of five seats and an unbeatably large versatile load compartment: the short-wheelbase versions can swallow 939 litres of luggage when loaded up to the roof, while the long-wheelbase models have a luggage-compartment capacity of 1118 litres.

The short-wheelbase R Class can carry a maximum of 2001 litres (longest load-compartment length 1982 mm) whilst the figure for the long-wheelbase version is an unparalleled 2436 litres (longest load-compartment length 2217 mm). These passenger- and load-compartment dimensions make the R-Class the most spacious model in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger-car range. Both versions feature practical stowage compartments under the load-compartment floor, with a capacity of 51 and 52 litres respectively. These can be used for stowing various items and keeping valuables out of sight.

Adaptability writ large

Even holiday trips with five people and all their luggage on board are handled with ease. If the rear seat in the centre is not required, it can be turned into a comfortable centre armrest in just a few simple moves. The second seat row has space for three child seats or child restraint systems. The outer seats are equipped with ISOFIX attachment points and come with the option of side airbags to further improve passive safety. All of the seats are fitted with three-point seat belts. Plus two individual seats can be added at the rear to transform the R-Class into a 5+2-seater. Despite the new seating arrangement in the centre of the vehicle, convenience functions such as fore/aft adjustment and EASY ENTRY, which facilitates access to the rear seats, are retained. All of the seats in the rear compartment can be folded down individually to produce a completely flat loading area. The previously mandatory 4+2-seat configuration is still available as an option.

Attractive exterior exudes confidence

The new model-year R-Class not only boasts new interior features. On the outside, too, the facelifted SUV Tourer is distinguishable by the highly distinctive bodystyling package at the front and rear, circular fog lamps and 18-inch light-alloy wheels for all V6 versions. The top-of-the-range R 500 4MATIC is fitted with 19-inch wheels. R-Class customers can also choose from three new paint colours: calcite white, sanidine beige or periclase green. These changes apply to both the short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase models.

Complete range from R 280 CDI to R 500 4MATIC

The engine line-up is augmented by the new V6 petrol powerplant in the R 280, which shines with its impressive power delivery and moderate fuel-consumption figures. This particular unit develops 170 kW/231 hp, propels the R-Class from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds and consumes a mere 10.9 litres of premium unleaded per 100 km (NEDC-combined figure).

The R 280 CDI 4MATIC, fitted with a latest-generation common-rail diesel engine developing 140 kW/190 hp, is even more fuel efficient. With a peak torque of 440 Nm, the V6 powerplant delivers smooth performance yet requires just 9.3 litres of diesel per 100 km. The R 500 4MATIC model also features a new engine in the shape of a 5.5-litre V8 developing 285 kW/388 hp and a peak torque of 530 Nm, thus ensuring impressive performance figures. The flagship V8 engine develops 82 hp more than the previous model, while fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 7 percent (all NEDC-combined figures). All R-Class models are specified with the innovative 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever on the steering column.

Mercedes-Benz now offers three new entry-level R-Class models – the R 280 CDI, the R 280 and the R 350 – all of which are V6 versions with rear-wheel drive and a choice of a short or long wheelbase. Thanks to the reduction in weight and the lower powertrain losses due to friction, the latter on account of the rear-wheel-drive configuration, these models return even lower fuel-consumption figures. The most fuel-efficient R-Class is now the R 280 CDI which consumes just 8.9 litres of diesel per 100 km (NEDC combined).

All five-seater and 4+2-seater model variants are equipped with steel suspension, while air suspension with level control is available as an optional extra for the rear axle. All 5+2-seater variants and the flagship R 500 4MATIC model have air suspension with level control fitted as standard at the rear. AIRMATIC air suspension with the Adaptive Damping System (ADS) is available as an optional extra for all versions.

Complete range of equipment for the ultimate in comfort

All R-Class models feature new items of standard equipment that make automotive travel even more relaxing. For instance, the THERMATIC automatic climate control is equipped with a combination filter to further reduce the pollutants in the air inside the vehicle whilst the spacious glove compartment now incorporates an AUX-IN connection for external audio or entertainment devices.

In addition to the extensive standard-equipment package, the R-Class offers numerous assistance systems that represent the pinnacle in handling comfort and safety and back up the claim to leadership in this market segment. These include DISTRONIC proximity control, actively ventilated front seats, LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control and a reversing camera for safe and easy parking or manoeuvring when visibility is poor. As soon as the driver selects "R" (reverse gear), the camera image appears on the COMAND APS display. Rear passengers can select their own programme of on-board entertainment courtesy of the rear-seat entertainment system. Further comfort-enhancing options include an auxiliary heater with remote control and an electrically heated steering wheel for when the weather turns colder.

Scientific studies carried out by the DaimlerChrysler research department confirm the outstanding level of long-distance comfort provided by the R-Class. This comfort has a profound effect on driver-fitness safety. Driver stress, measured based on heart rate, is much lower in the R-Class than in comparable vehicles.

Attractive pricing

The latest-generation R-Class can now be ordered from authorised Mercedes-Benz outlets, with deliveries commencing in autumn 2007. Prices start at € 46,707.50 incl. VAT (R 280 short-wheelbase) – well below the previous entry-level price of € 50,337. Prices for long-wheelbase models start at € 48,492.50 incl. VAT (R 280 long-wheelbase) as against the previous entry-level price of € 54,621.

Posted by Frank at 3:06 PM

Ford Unleashes 2008 Mustang With Warriors in Pink Package to Benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Limited edition 2008 Ford Mustang Produced in Celebration of Susan G. Komen for the Cure's 25th Anniversary

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford revs up its 2007 Warriors in Pink campaign in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure by announcing today a very special addition -- the new 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package.

Produced in a limited edition of 2,500 units, the Mustang with Warriors in Pink package is the first-ever Ford vehicle designed exclusively in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Embarking on its 13th year of support of Komen for the Cure, Ford has dedicated more than $90 million in cash and in-kind donations to save lives and end breast cancer.

Launched in 2006, the Ford Warriors in Pink campaign recognizes the strength and courage it takes to deal with the everyday challenges of fighting breast cancer. The Warriors in Pink collection of apparel for men and women feature important symbols signifying the message of hope, strength and unity in the commitment to the fight against breast cancer.

Three new Warrior symbols debut this year, representing the Warrior spirit in each one of us, from power and courage to strength and compassion. These new symbols will be found on additional apparel items available for men, women and children. All apparel is available on Fordcares.com and 100 percent of net proceeds will be donated to Komen for the Cure. More than $1 million of merchandise was sold in 2006.

"Ford has been a long-standing supporter of Komen for the Cure and this year we've designed a special product to help raise awareness and find a cure for breast cancer," said Connie Fontaine, Ford Customer Experience Manager. "For the 2007 campaign, Ford truly breaks the mold by creating the first-ever Ford 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package to support Komen for the Cure. With the addition of the new Mustang to Ford's already powerful line of Warriors in Pink gear available at Fordcares.com, we plan to have yet another successful year as we provide our support in the fight against breast cancer."

The limited-edition 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package is currently available for consumers to pre-order through their local Ford dealer. The Mustangs, fueled by the Warrior spirit, will be delivered to dealerships mid-summer. Sales from the Warriors in Pink package will help raise funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Ford's goal is to donate more than half a million dollars through these sales in addition to other fundraising efforts.

Available on V-6 Premium Array Coupe or Convertible models, the Mustang with Warriors in Pink package will add a pink ribbon and Pony fender badge, pink Mustang rocker tape striping, charcoal leather seats with pink stitching, aluminum-spoke steering wheel with pink stitching and charcoal floormats with pink ribbon and contrast stitching. The Mustang with Warriors in Pink package, which includes the Mustang Pony package, will be available in three colors to please the spirits of all Warriors: black, metallic silver and performance white.

Mustang is one of the greatest automotive sales success stories of all time. Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang, and Mustang remains one of the hottest-selling cars in America. It's also America's best-selling convertible.

About Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure and launched the global breast cancer movement. Today, Komen for the Cure is the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Komen Race for the Cure, we have invested nearly $1 billion to fulfill our promise, becoming the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world. For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, breast health or breast cancer, visit www.komen.org or call 1-800 I'M AWARE.

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 breast cancer awareness initiatives, visit www.fordcares.com.

Source: Ford Motor Company

Posted by Frank at 2:57 PM

Safety Reminder: Don’t Leave Youngsters in Unattended Vehicles

TUCSON, Ariz. -- Arizona’s legendary hot weather is here and it’s a good time for a reminder about the dangers of leaving a child in an unattended vehicle whatever the weather conditions are.

"Leaving children alone in family vehicles creates very dangerous situations," said Martha Furnas, GEICO assistant vice president. “In extremely hot conditions, the rapid heat buildup could cause a child to suffer from heat stroke in just minutes. There are other dangers, too. A child might wander off, become lost, hurt or even kidnapped. We want to remind all parents and caretakers about these dangers.”

Deona Ryan, president-elect of the Pima County Child Abuse Prevention Council, said, “The most important thing for our community is that we all become involved in protecting children. We can’t rely on others to do the job. If you see a child unattended in a car, be an active participant and call 911. The child’s life may depend on it. Parents should be aware of potential dangers and never leave their child unattended in a car, even if they are asleep…not even for a minute.”

Ryan continued, “People may not realize, but heat is much more dangerous to children than it is to adults. A child’s small size makes it hard for the child to shed heat. When left in a hot vehicle, a child’s core body temperature may increase three to five times faster than that of an adult. This could cause permanent injury or even death.”

Furnas added that pets also must be protected from extremely hot weather conditions that develop very quickly in parked cars.

Pima County Child Abuse Prevention Council offers the following safety tips:

* Never leave a child unattended in a car, even with the windows down. On a typically sunny, summer day, the temperature inside a car can reach potentially deadly levels within minutes. Animals also need the same protection.

* When restraining children in a car that has been parked in the heat, check to make sure seating surfaces and equipment (car seat and seat belt buckles) aren’t overly hot.

* If your child gets locked inside a car, dial 911.

* Research conducted on how heat in a closed car affects infants and small children focused on dry heat and showed that the temperatures in a closed car can become dangerous to small children and infants in only minutes. One study showed that with an outside temperature of 93 degrees, even with a window cracked, the temperature inside a car could reach 125 degrees in just 20 minutes

Posted by Frank at 2:49 PM

New Survey Shows Pennsylvanians Oppose Turnpike Privatization Plan by 2:1

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Today, the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association (PMTA) released a new statewide survey showing 2 out of 3 Pennsylvanians oppose selling the Turnpike to a privately-owned company.

"People understand private investors are motivated by the bottom line," said Jim Runk, President of PMTA. "That bottom line will be a key factor in any decisions made regarding toll increases, road maintenance, snow removal and highway safety. At the end of the day, Pennsylvanians have to repay this loan -- most likely though toll increases and/or higher taxes."

The statewide survey of 800 registered Pennsylvania voters was conducted April 12-17 by Susquehanna Polling and Research. Among the main findings, the survey revealed that a majority rejected popular privatization arguments that revenues gained from a lease would help avoid a tax increase and that private operators would result in more efficient management of the Turnpike.

The survey also revealed that Pennsylvanians of all political parties, both genders, all ages, and different ideologies equally opposed to selling the Turnpike:

-- Party Affiliation: Opposition includes a majority of Republicans (56/33
opposed), Democrats (63/29 opposed) and Independents (61/29 opposed).
-- Gender: Opposition includes a majority of males (59/36 opposed) and
females (60/26 opposed).
-- Ideology: Opposition includes a majority of self-described
conservatives (59/32 opposed), liberals (61/33 opposed) and moderates
(59/27 opposed).
-- Age Groups: Opposition includes a majority of voters ages 60 years old
and older (62/28 opposed), 45-59 year olds (60/31 opposed), 30-44 year
olds (57/34 opposed) and 18-29 year olds (53/42 opposed).

David Shumaker, PMTA Chairman of the Board and President of Shumaker Trucking Company, a 40-year-old family business in Dillsburg, PA, voiced additional concerns over the privatization proposal, citing toll increases that his company's 25 trucks must now absorb when traveling over the recently privatized Indiana Turnpike.

"For the past 25 years our trucks have made weekly runs to Chicago, traveling on the Indiana Turnpike," said Schumaker. "Last week, one truck paid $19.00 to travel the l78 mile toll road. Before the road was sold to private investors, the same truck would pay $4.50. As a result of Indiana's privatization plan, my small business will pay an additional $2,100 a year- just in toll increases in one state.

"It doesn't make sense for the Commonwealth to adopt plans that increase costs for small, family businesses like mine. Ultimately, it will hurt my ability to keep costs for customers low and stay in business."

The Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association is a statewide organization of Pennsylvanians engaged in the motor transportation industry, dedicated to effectively representing the concerns of the trucking industry to members, government and regulatory agencies and the general public and assisting member companies in managing the impact of change in the trucking industry and to enhance the professional and economic growth of its members.

Source: Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association

Posted by Frank at 2:39 PM

Journey of discovery - A working film on commercial vehicle milieu analysis

* Scientific implementation of research into the future

* A working film on commercial vehicle milieu analysis

Stuttgart -- The DaimlerChrysler researchers are taking unconventional steps in sounding out commercial vehicle markets. Since figures and statistics alone cannot provide a comprehensive picture of a market in all its facets, the researchers are incorporating the human factor into their field studies.

Investigating the world’s markets is thus becoming a scientific journey of discovery. The findings have been made available in the form of a film for discussion within the company.

In the target markets, DaimlerChrysler cooperates with independent research institutes and avails itself of the services of employees with competence appropriate to the cultures and milieus in question.

The objective is to acquire comprehensive information on the multifaceted social and economic framework conditions to be found within and in the environs of the transportation sector. The researchers anticipate future developments and the requirements placed on a product, for example, and derive specific recommendations for advanced engineering.

Subjective perception and market requirements

Classic market analyses with facts, figures and trends provide an initial overview of the commercial vehicle market. In order to record subjective views that are crucial to purchasing decisions, however, the researchers from DaimlerChrysler, accompanied by specialists, seek out the truckers and transport operators as they go about their day-to-day routine. Through systematic observation and questioning, they are in a position to identify vehicle characteristics that may have to be adjusted for a particular market. This takes place in the familiar surroundings of the truckers and entrepreneurs, without the risk that these activities could be perceived for instance as sales discussions.

There are many questions to be clarified: How long, for example, are the downtimes of a commercial vehicle? To what extent does service effect a decision to buy? What is the influence of fuel consumption? Which routes are covered? And what about driver availability? How many drivers sit in the cab? How long are they on the move on average? What are their lifestyles and personalities like? How relevant are health and wellbeing? What restrictions are imposed by traffic, infrastructure and fees? And what is the role of technology and telematics?

In order to categorize this abundance of framework conditions, the researchers work with so-called descriptors. The acquired data can be logically processed and classified by this means, thereby ensuring scientifically founded, future-oriented results.

Animated presentations

Figures and charts are simply too static to convey emotions and subjective impressions. The DaimlerChrysler researchers are therefore supplementing their conventional presentations with the medium of film to put across more vividly the findings from their journeys of discovery. Thanks to this analytic working film, the day-to-day routine of transport entrepreneurs and drivers from diverse, unfamiliar market regions – such as Russia, Kazakhstan or southern China – can be more tangibly experienced by the product development team.

Truckers find open ears

With this film, the views and opinions of commercial vehicle drivers are conveyed directly and in unfiltered form into the offices of the developers. In the analysis of a central European market, it became clear that the drivers strongly identify with their trucks. The brand and appearance of the vehicles constitute a significant part of their lives. These and other factors, in turn, influence the purchasing decisions of the transport operators.

When covering their regular routes, often for days on end, the drivers can also readily assess the comfort level of their trucks in a market comparison – for instance the features of a heating system or the vibration characteristics of the cab on poor road surfaces. These sequences shown in the film point out to the predevelopment team the current and future requirements placed on vehicles and thus constitute an important decision-making aid in technical product development.

Posted by Frank at 2:26 PM

European Safety Award for the development of Mercedes-Benz Active Brake Assist

* Award presented to the head of the development team for Mercedes-Benz Active Brake Assist for commercial vehicles

* Mercedes-Benz Active Brake Assist makes a considerable contribution to the operating safety of commercial vehicles

* The life-saving technology of Mercedes-Benz Active Brake Assist has already received a "Yellow Angel" award from the ADAC

Stuttgart/ Klettwitz -- Dr.-Ing. Jürgen Trost (48), the developer of Mercedes-Benz Active Brake Assist for commercial vehicles, has been presented with the 2007 European Commercial Vehicle Safety award.

The technical appraisal organisation DEKRA, the German Traffic Safety Council (DVR) and the European Association for Accident Research and Analysis (EVU) have honoured the head of the Driver Assistance Systems department at DaimlerChrysler AG for his outstanding contribution to the development of Active Brake Assist, which considerably improves the operating safety of commercial vehicles. The award was presented at the 2nd DEKRA Active Safety Symposium in Klettwitz (Brandenburg).

As head of Driver Assistance Systems at DaimlerChrysler, Dr. Trost with his team has worldwide responsibility for the development of safety and assistance functions for heavy commercial vehicles. The main focus of his work is on the development of electronic architectures for commercial verhicles, strategic projects such as "Steer by Wire" and active safety systems.

In 2002 the electronics expert and his colleagues have previously been nominated for the "German Future Award – The Federal President’s Award for Technology and Innovation" for the development of this emergency braking system for heavy commercial vehicles, a project which had the working title of "Protector" at the time.

This year will be the 18th time that the 2007 European Commercial Vehicle Safety Award has been presented. It is awarded for an outstanding technical innovation or to honour the life’s work of an individual. Its recipients are internationally well-known experts who have made an outstanding contribution to the safety of commercial vehicles.

This further honour for the life-saving technology of Mercedes-Benz Active Brake Assist joins a list of similar awards which also includes the "Yellow Angel" presented by the ADAC.

Active Brake Assist (emergency brake assist) will save lives

The DaimlerChrysler vision of "accident-free driving" aims at ensuring that in future, at least half of all road accidents are avoided if the vehicles are equipped with corresponding assistance systems. Active Brake Assist will play an important part in this.

As a contribution to the discussion surrounding new safety systems, DaimlerChrysler recently presented what experts consider to be the world’s safest truck in series production to both the European Commission in Brussels and to high-ranking representatives from politics, associations and technical appraisal organisations in 13 countries. The "Mercedes-Benz Safety Truck" combines all currently available assistance and safety systems, plus the Active Brake Assist (emergency brake assist) system which has recently entered series production.

Mercedes-Benz Active Brake Assist has already been on the market since autumn 2006. In conjunction with Telligent stability control, Telligent proximity cruise control, Telligent lane assist and the driver airbag, it is offered as a particularly favourably priced "Safety Package".

Derived from the proximity cruise control system, Active Brake Assist (emergency brake assist) automatically initiates emergency braking action e.g. if the truck is in danger of a rear-end collision with a slow-moving column of vehicles traveling ahead.

If the rear-end collision cannot be always avoided entirely, the impact speed is at least drastically reduced so that the effects of the accident are far less serious. The forecast is therefore a very realistic one: the new Active Brake Assist (emergency brake assist) can save lives.

Posted by Frank at 2:20 PM

Ford inviting customers to sync their rides

If there was ever a product plugged directly into contemporary lifestyles, it's Ford Sync, a new communications and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft.

The hands-free wireless system enables drivers to control cell phones and MP3 players using controls mounted on the steering wheel or radio or verbal commands. Sync users can call friends and answer incoming cell-phone calls, read text messages aloud, send text replies from a list of preprogrammed messages and access songs from iPods or MP3 players by artist, album, title, genre or playlist.

With such industry-first features it's no wonder Sync won the cnet.com People's Voice award at the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show, and no surprise that Ford's Web site for Sync is not your traditional automobile site.

On Syncmyride.com, an opening movie features "Laura," a young woman headed to a party. Using Sync, she calls friends, checks her playlists, has text messages read to her and chooses songs for the party, all with simple voice commands.

"We created the site to be very evocative," said Trisha Habucke, Sync Web site manager. "It's a different and entertaining way to demonstrate Sync's capabilities."

The Web site also features text descriptions of Sync's features, demo clips, an FAQ and the ability to subscribe for e-mail updates as Sync heads for launch this fall.

"Sync has a very broad appeal and cuts across most age ranges," Habucke said. "We've built the site to appeal to people who are tech-savvy as well as the everyday user. So far, according to our research, the majority of people coming to the site are current Ford owners and approximately half are actively car shopping."

"Laura" and other characters were cast to attract tech-savvy, Generation Y buyers – those born between 1981 and 1995. Even more mature, less technical-oriented viewers may be impressed by the demonstration of Sync's ease of use.

Syncmyride.com launched in January when the technology debuted simultaneously at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

As Sync approaches launch on the 2008 Ford Focus, the site will move into its second phase, providing more specific detail about its compatibility with various electronic devices. Users will be able to determine if their specific cell phone or music player will work with Sync.

"Finally, we will move to the third stage that we call the buy-and-use application," Habucke said. "The last phase will allow customers to manage their Sync account and software upgrades."

So far, site traffic comes mainly from the initial Sync promotions at the auto and electronics shows, but as the Focus is launched, additional print advertising will appear promoting Syncmyride.com.

The first models to offer Sync as an option include Ford's Edge, Explorer and Sport Trac, Focus, Fusion, Taurus and Taurus X, Lincoln's MKX and MKZ, and Mercury's Milan, Sable and Mountaineer. Eventually, the system will be available across the Ford Lincoln and Mercury brands.

Syncmyride.com was created for Ford by Avenue A | Razorfish, an interactive services firm that also works on such company sites as Ford.com.

Posted by Frank at 2:15 PM

Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company, speaks at 2007 shareholder meeting

Remarks as prepared for delivery by Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company, at the 2007 annual meeting of shareholders held at the Hotel du Pont in Wilmington, Delaware, on Thursday, May 10, 2007.

Thank you, Bill. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.

I’m pleased to have this opportunity to address the shareholders of Ford Motor Company. I’d like to take a few minutes to explain what all of us on the Ford team worldwide are doing on your behalf.

Our entire global team is focused on four key priorities this year:

* aggressively restructuring to be profitable at a lower volume and changed product mix,
* accelerating product development while reducing complexity and improving quality,
* securing financing to complete our plans, and
* working together with teamwork and accountability.

Our most immediate concern is fixing our business in North America. We are taking the painful but necessary steps of idling 16 manufacturing facilities and substantially reducing our workforce. Altogether, we will achieve a $5 billion reduction in our annual operating costs by 2008 compared to 2005. We also have secured $23.5 billion in new funding to finance our restructuring, bringing our total automotive liquidity to $46 billion at year-end 2006.

Most importantly, we are accelerating our new product development. By the end of next year, 70% of our Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup will be all-new or significantly freshened, and we’ll speed up our product development time by 30-50%. Our plan is to return our North American automotive operations to profitability no later than 2009.

We are accelerating these efforts by using our worldwide resources more effectively. Working together as one global company is our biggest single opportunity to make rapid and dramatic progress. We’ve already begun to take better advantage of the tremendous potential this offers.

In December I announced a realignment to better leverage our global assets and capabilities. Under this new structure our three automotive business units – in the Americas, Europe and Asia – report directly to me.

In support of these business units we also created a single global product development organization. By sharing vehicle architectures, components and best practices from around the world, and maximizing economies of scale, we are taking full advantage of our global resources for the greater good of the entire company.

Along with these organizational changes, we have put in place new principles and work practices to help us unlock the full potential of our people and resources worldwide.

Everyone with a stake in the outcome is included in the decision making process. Together, we developed a single plan for our entire global enterprise, with clear performance goals. Although we work as a team, individuals are given responsibility and authority, and held accountable for delivering results. Achievements are measured by facts and data, not anecdotes and opinions.

I meet with my own senior management team once a week in a half day session to review progress toward our goals and address any roadblocks. Problems and concerns are discussed candidly and the entire team is enlisted to help find solutions. Mutual respect and a “find-a-way” attitude are key elements of every meeting, and the focus of discussion is always our plan.

The goal of all this is simple – to build more of the products that people really want and value. Products with striking designs that are safer, more fuel efficient and offer even greater value. Great products will strengthen our brands, and strong brands will help grow our business.

Our products also will define us as the company that cares about its customers and their communities. Bill Ford and I share the same vision of building clean, fuel efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles that protect their passengers and our planet. We believe that a company that acts responsibly and is concerned for the greater good will not only be admired, it will be rewarded with growth and sustained profitability.

We are moving quickly and making real progress, but it’s going to take time to turn things around. As we go forward, you can expect from us what I expect from my team – clearly stated goals and candid assessments of our progress based on facts.

Ford Motor Company already has a proud history to gain inspiration from, and many hopeful developments to build on.

* We had record sales in China and India in 2006, and continued that strong momentum in the first quarter of this year.
* Ford Europe saw a sales increase of nearly five percent in 2006, and sales continued to rise in the first quarter, including best-ever March sales.
* The latest consumer survey shows the quality of our Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products in North America is now equal to Toyota and Nissan. This is the first time since we began tracking their quality against ours in 1981 that we've matched them. That's an incredibly important milestone in the history of our company.
* Our North American sales are under continuing pressure. But we've made great progress in building products consumers want to buy. Just three years ago, 70% of our U.S. retail sales were trucks and SUVs, and 30% were cars and crossovers. With the success of new products like Ford Fusion and Edge, today almost 50% of our retail sales are cars and crossovers.
* Our financial results in the first quarter were better than expected, thanks to cost cutting in North America and greater strength around the world, especially at Ford of Europe and PAG. Again, we’re not where we need to be, but we are making progress.

This is a company filled with talented and dedicated people. We have outstanding supplier, dealer and union partners and substantial worldwide resources. There also is an incredible amount of goodwill that exists toward Ford around the world.

That’s a wonderful foundation to build on. We have many challenges ahead of us, but the transformation of Ford Motor Company is well underway. I think you’ll be pleased with what you see in the months and years ahead.

Thank you.

Posted by Frank at 8:31 AM

Saturn joins Healthy Active Lifestyle Marketing Partnership

Sky Red Line to lead five Rock 'n' Roll Marathons

LOS ANGELES – Elite Racing Inc., the leading producer of world-class running events, and Saturn announced an integrated marketing partnership.

Through the partnership, Saturn is proud to have the Sky Red Line take its position at the starting line of the Nashville, San Diego, Virginia Beach, San Jose and Philadelphia Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathons, leading competitors on their 26.2-mile run.

As the Official Vehicle, Saturn will support the races with pace and support vehicles that will handle everything from transporting race officials and staff to leading the marathon runners across the finish line.

“Saturn is excited to be a sponsor and Official Vehicle of five Elite Racing Inc. Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathons,” said Tony Parrottino, national sales promotions manager. “Saturn is in the midst of an exciting revitalization as we expand our product line-up. These new products, demonstrate the new product style of Saturn -- with dynamic designs, refined interiors and fun-to-drive performance. Taking our place at the starting line helps generate awareness for our new vehicles and supports Saturn’s commitment to health and fitness.”

Saturn will display along the course and at the two-day Health and Fitness Expos the lowest-priced hybrid SUV on the market, the 2007 Vue Green Line hybrid and the Aura mid-size sedan, recently named North American Car of the Year. Joining the Vue Green Line hybrid and Aura on display will be the all-new 2008 Vue compact crossover, Outlook and Astra.

Saturn supports marathons and running events throughout the United States, including approximately 100 local 5K, 10K and half marathons as a part of Saturn’s “Driven to Run” program. Saturn also joined Rodale Publishing to provide a Web-based forum for athletes of all levels. It allows them to communicate with each other on the latest health and fitness topics at findyourdetour.com.

“Saturn brings tremendous value to our races,” said Tim Murphy, CEO and founder of Elite Racing. “Its national presence and its focus on quality made Saturn a natural choice. We are very excited that Saturn is bringing its insight, energy and expertise and “gotta have” vehicles to the thousands of runners and supporters of our world-renowned races.”

About Saturn

General Motors’ Saturn brand markets vehicles in the U.S. and Canada through a network of about 500 retailers, with a focus on providing innovative products with solid value and excellent customer service. In 2006, Saturn undertook a major revitalization of its portfolio with four new vehicles: the Sky roadster, the Aura midsize sedan, the Vue Green Line hybrid and the larger Outlook crossover. Saturn continues its aggressive growth plans in 2007, with the all-new 2008 Vue compact crossover (now available) and the new 2008 Astra small car (Fall 2007).

About Elite Racing Inc.

Elite Racing, Inc. is a sports marketing and management company and leading producer of world-class road racing events for runners and walkers throughout the United States . Its signature musical marathon series began in 1998 with the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in San Diego, Calif., which will celebrate its 10th anniversary on Sun. June 3, 2007 . Over the past nine years, the company has grown to manage a total of six marathons and half-marathons including the Country Music Marathon and ½ Marathon in Nashville, Tenn., the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon & ½ Marathon in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe, the Philadelphia Distance Run and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathons in Virginia Beach, Va. and San Jose, Calif.

Each event features a live band on entertainment stages, themed water stations and cheerleaders at every mile along the course. Events attract between 11,000 and 35,000 participants.

In addition, Elite Racing also produces the Carlsbad 5000. For more information about Elite Racing’s events visit www.eliteracing.com.

Posted by Frank at 8:26 AM

Hyundai notches biggest consumer opinion boost

IMAGE CONSIDERATION AND TRACKING RESEARCH LISTS HYUNDAI HIGHER THAN NINE MANUFACTURERS

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- AutoPacific, an automotive consulting firm, reported Hyundai had the largest opinion improvement among nine manufacturers in its initial wave of Image and Consideration Tracking Research.

AutoPacific analysts stated, “The surprise (or not so surprising) winner of the most improved manufacturer was Hyundai Motor America. Comments surrounding the performance of Hyundai gave Hyundai credit for substantially improved styling, newly-found high durability/quality/reliability, a strong value message and a great warranty program. Positive comments outweighed negative comments by about four to one.”

Nine manufacturers were evaluated including, General Motors, Toyota, Ford Motor, Chrysler Group, Nissan, Honda, Hyundai, VW, and BMW. 1,254 panelists responded to an Internet survey concerning their opinion of automakers in the USA. The key question in the survey was whether the respondent's opinion of a manufacturer had changed since this time last year. Over 5,000 verbatim comments were collected in relation to opinion and attitude toward various aspects of a manufacturer’s image.

“In 2006, JD Power and Associates ranked Hyundai as the highest non-premium nameplate in its Initial Quality Study and BusinessWeek named us a top ‘100 Global Brand’ for 2006,” said John Krafcik, vice president of Strategic Planning and Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. “AutoPacific’s report that Hyundai now has the largest opinion improvement over nine competing manufacturers is another example of how Hyundai is continuing to improve brand image through its commitment to quality and value.”

Posted by Frank at 8:22 AM

Introducing the Spyker C8 Spyder

The Automotive Equivalent of the Iron Fist in a Velvet Glove

ZEEWOLDE, The Netherlands -- Powered by 400hp of growling V8 engine this super-lightweight all-aluminum two seat sports car roars to 60mph in less than five seconds and hurtles beyond 180mph, all the while surrounding the occupants in one of the most daring and exotic interiors available on any production car.

Leather from the finest supplier in the motor industry; dashboard instruments uniquely crafted by the master watch-maker Chronoswiss; exposed gear linkage and racing pedal box hewn from solid aluminum billet; the feeling of openness that comes from no windscreen header rail; cruising Fifth Avenue with the roof down.

This is motoring for true individuals.

To experience the Spyker C8 Spyder for yourself and to learn of the various funding and leasing opportunities available please visit www.spykerworld.com and locate your local dealer.

Source: Spyker Cars N.V.

Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM

Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland: two double champions lead the field

Stuttgart -- Richard Westbrook from Great Britain and Germany's Uwe Alzen have something in common. Both have not only been crowned champion of the Porsche Supercup – a series run as support to the FIA Formula 1 World Championship – but also of the Carrera Cups in their respective homelands.

After two rounds this season, Westbrook leads the championship before the race weekend on the EuroSpeedway (18-20 May) with Alzen as his closest rival sitting eight points behind in position two. The 31-year-old Briton and the 39-year-old German head a field of young and determined race drivers.

Chris Mamerow (22, Germany), climbed the podium after finishing third at the season opener in Hockenheim and currently occupies third overall in the points. Sharing the same points tally as Mamerow is Nicolas Armindo (25, France) in fourth. Armindo achieved third at round two in Oschersleben, beating 20-year-old Jan Seyffarth to the podium (Germany) by just six-tenths of a second. Seyffarth sits fifth in the points standings ahead of Joerg Hardt (26, Germany). Hardt underlined his skillls at the wheel of his Porsche 911 GT3 Cup by claiming pole position at the first two rounds this year. He returns to the EuroSpeedway keen to repeat his pole position and victory from last year.

Christian Menzel (35, Germany), seventh in the points, is the only driver over 30 in the pack of pursuers. In 1999 Menzel secured vice-championship honours in the Carrera Cup, in 2005 he claimed the title. Trailing the Porsche stalwart by just one point is the best new-comer in the series, the ex-Formula 3 and GP2 driver Olivier Pla from France. The 25-year-old racing professional finished his first two races in the Carrera Cup in positions seven and nine. Another promising rookie and at the same time the youngest in the field is 19-year-old Martin Ragginger from Austria. The talented youngster has adjusted brilliantly to the Porsche series after switching from Formula BMW and currently ranks ninth ahead of his team mate Lance David Arnold (20, Germany).

For all drivers the weekend in the Lausitz region of Germany is of particular importance. For the first time in the 18-year history of the Carrera Cup, competitors have two chances to claim victory, prize money and points. Two races take place over the weekend with round 3 held on Saturday
(4.30pm) followed by round 4 on Sunday (10.50am).

With this particularly attractive programme, Porsche and the ITR have managed to fulfil the wishes of competing teams to run all nine championship rounds as part of the DTM. Originally, due to a conflicting calendars, only eight races were intended to run as support to the DTM with one race expected to run alongside another event.

Posted by Frank at 8:15 AM

May 10, 2007

Porsche trainees build luxe emergency vehicle

Cayenne also brings rescuers to difficult terrain

Stuttgart -- One of the fastest emergency vehicles, fully suited for rough terrain as well, has been developed in Zuffenhausen.

With laborious hand work, 15 trainees of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart have converted the sport utility vehicle Cayenne S into a very modern deployment vehicle for rescue workers. The prototype will be employed by Health and Safety Services.

The interior of the original production vehicle from the first Cayenne generation was completely modified. The rear seat and passenger seat had to give way to an aluminum frame construction, onto which the stretcher can be slid through the tailgate of the vehicle.

A seat for the emergency doctor was set up adjacent to the stretcher. The modified Cayenne S provides the doctor with highly modern medical equipment for administering first aid to the patient. Among other equipment, an EKG with a defibrillator – an electroshock device for treating patients with ventricular fibrillation –, an electrical suction pump, an emergency backpack and various rescue tools are included.

The maneuverable vehicle considerably improves the chances for rescue in difficult terrain. Thanks to a permanent all-wheel drive with reduction gears and a locking central differential, a versatile off-road chassis and high ground clearance, the vehicle also reaches remote locations off the beaten track and can handle slopes of up to 45 degrees. A further advantage is its air suspension including the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) adaptive dampening system - this permits especially careful transport of patients.

The idea for the concept of the Cayenne emergency vehicle came from Porsche Health Management. The industrial physicians have given the trainees the task of building four emergency vehicles, which are destined for the Porsche plants in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen and Weissach in Baden-Württemberg as well as the Leipzig plant. The Cayenne will also be stationed at the Porsche test track in Weissach.

Porsche trainees have since gained extensive experience in equipping special vehicles. Six Cayennes have already been prepared with different equipment for use in fire fighting, plant security and Health and Safety Services.

"Every vehicle is unique with very special solutions. These special projects permit cross-divisional teamwork with the experience of mechanical designers, electronic specialists, vehicle mechatronic specialists, vehicle equipment assemblers and painters. The challenging task which requires the greatest handworking skills and precise work, motivates the young men and women," Porsche Head of Training Dieter Esser said. The special attraction is the production of a product which is extremely useful instead of practical experience in purely didactical way.

Posted by Frank at 11:45 AM

Audi R10 TDI faces hot battle in the Utah desert

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Following the 12 Hours of Sebring and three successive street races, the Audi R10 TDI faces yet another big challenge in the USA: Quite possibly the hottest race on the 2007 American Le Mans Series calendar held at the Miller Motorsports Park some 30 miles west of Salt Lake City awaits the Audi Sport North America team on Saturday, May 19.

Temperatures exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade are forecast in the desert in Utah. However, the 24-turn 4.486-mile track - the longest in the USA - offers no such respite from the burning heat.

Audi celebrated a narrow victory with the R10 TDI in last year’s hot battle in the cauldron close to Salt Lake City. After suffering two unlucky defeats at the hands of the significantly lighter LM P2 cars in Long Beach and Houston, Team Audi Sport North America aims to bounce back by repeating last year’s victory.

Dindo Capello (Italy) and Allan McNish (Scotland) arrive as championship leaders in Utah. Their team mates Emanuele Pirro (Italy) and Marco Werner (Germany), for whom Miller Motorsports Park is new territory, are only eight points behind.

For Audi the fifth round of the American Le Mans Series is also the final sportscar race before the Le Mans 24 Hours on the 16th and 17th of June. Practice in Utah starts on Thursday. The race starts on Saturday at 5:05 PM MDT and runs into the dusk.

Quotes before the race at Salt Lake City

Dr Wolfgang Ullrich (Head of Audi Motorsport): "The weekend at Salt Lake City last year was very interesting. The circuit was brand new at that time and it wasn’t easy for the drivers to orientate. The track has many different types of corners and also a long straight. Our R10 TDI functioned quite well there last year. Tracks which should suit us even better are still to come. After three street races in succession the entire team is really looking forward to getting back to work on a ‘normal’ race track.”

Dindo Capello (Audi R10 TDI #1): "Allan (McNish) and I still have a score to settle with Salt Lake City. We were extremely unlucky there last year: We led from the beginning, but a puncture ten minutes before the end of the race cost us victory. I hope we’ll be luckier this year. I’m delighted to be able to race on such a fantastic track where our R10 TDI can demonstrate its potential more easily than around a street circuit.”

Allan McNish (Audi R10 TDI #1): "Each and every one of us is looking forward to driving on a ‘real’ circuit again. We are just more familiar with the R10 TDI on such circuits. Also, the street races are quite turbulent and unpredictable. We were very fast at Salt Lake City last year. We already had a 40-second lead before getting a puncture. However, we shouldn’t forget that Porsche set the fastest race lap with an LM P2 car and that Acura/Honda is getting stronger and stronger. I’m expecting that we’ll have to fight hard again to win the race.”

Emanuele Pirro (Audi R10 TDI #2): "At last another great, real race track! We’ve spent enough time driving between walls. Salt Lake City is a great facility; the track is fantastic, new and long. I can hardly wait to drive the R10 TDI there. There is a long straight and the circuit has many fast corners which suit our car. For me, the championship only really starts at Salt Lake City, because the main priority at the street races was to finish the races and collect points.”

Marco Werner (Audi R10 TDI #2): "Salt Lake City is yet another race weekend during which I’ll have to learn a new circuit. I’ve heard that the circuit is interesting - and demanding as far as finding the ideal line is concerned. Fortunately we have a little more practice time here than at the previous races. I’m looking forward to see what’s in store for me.”

Dave Maraj (Team Director Audi Sport North America): "We are happy to be racing again at a real race track - without concrete walls. Our car is designed and built for such circuits, not for street races. Of course we’ll do our best at Salt Lake City.”

The Utah Grand Prix schedule (all times are MDT)

Thursday, 17 May

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM Test session (LM P1 / LM P2)
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Test session (all classes)
8:00 PM - 8:30 PM Test session (GT1 / GT2)

Friday, 18 May

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM Practice 1
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Practice 2
3:40 PM - 4:00 PM Qualifying (GT1 / GT2)
4:10 PM - 4:30 PM Qualifying (LM P1 / LM P2)

Saturday, 19 May

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM Warm-up
5:05 PM - 7:50 PM Race

Posted by Frank at 11:36 AM

Drive the Fun at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum this Summer

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The fun will be at full throttle this summer as Cruise Nights return to the Walter P. Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills, from 6 - 9 p.m. Thursdays, June 14 and 28, July 12 and 26 and Aug. 9 and 23.

Cruisers with vehicles of all makes and models -- and enthusiasts who simply enjoy the chrome and steel landscape -- can feast on the automotive eye-candy that will adorn the Museum's spacious grounds, including a must-see array of spectacular Chrysler Group concept vehicles.

Cruise Nights at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum will celebrate car culture -- rain or shine -- with music, free Museum tours and food concessions. A variety of Chrysler Group's most popular concept vehicles will be thematically displayed in the Museum's front circular drive each evening:

-- Dodge Challenger Night, June 14: Dodge Challenger, ACR Viper, Mopar SS Drag and Chrysler Nassau

-- Classic Cruiser Night, June 28: Chrysler 300 Hemi(R) C, Chrysler Imperial, Chrysler Phaeton, Dodge Super Hemi

-- Extreme Performance Night, July 12: Dodge Demon, Chrysler Firepower, Chrysler ME Four-Twelve and Dodge Tomahawk

-- Radical Night, July 26: Akino, Expresso, Slingshot and Trio

-- Jeep(R) Night, Aug. 9: Jeep(R) Gladiator, Jeep Hurricane, Jeep Jeepster, Jeep Rescue and Jeep Trailhawk

-- Hot Truck Night, Aug. 23: Jeep Gladiator, Dodge M80, Dodge Power Wagon and Dodge Rampage

Product specialists will be on hand to answer questions about each Chrysler Group concept.

The Walter P. Chrysler Museum will award plaques each Cruise Night to participants with outstanding vehicles in three categories:

-- Museum Choice;
-- Best Wheels for Wooing; and
-- Best Challenger, Best Classic Cruiser, Best Performance Vehicle, Most
Radical Ride, Best Jeep(R) and Hottest Truck, in keeping with Cruise
Night themes.

Revving up Cruise Nights fun will be:
-- Cruis'news, on June 14, to individually photograph owners with their
vehicles. Owners can pick-up their complimentary framed photo from the
Museum during subsequent Cruise Nights.
-- 94.7 WCSX, on June 28, with the Classic Rock Cruisers. Weekend jock KT
will be on-hand to emcee and Focus Hope will sell raffle tickets for
this year's WCSX Stone Soup project -- a 1968 Dodge Charger.
-- 101 WRIF, on July 12 and 26, with the WRIF Muscle Car Club. A WRIF air
ace will host the party both evenings, complete with station giveaways.

The Walter P. Chrysler Museum is located at the corner of Featherstone and Squirrel Rds. on the DaimlerChrysler complex in Auburn Hills. From I-75, take exit 78 (Chrysler Dr.) and follow the Museum signs.

For more information, visit http://www.chryslerheritage.com/ or call 248-944-0450.

Source: Walter P. Chrysler Museum

Posted by Frank at 11:23 AM

More Commuters Turn to Motor Scooters as Gas Prices Rise

Piaggio President/CEO Available To Discuss 'Vespanomics' As One Solution

Piaggio is the Manufacturer the World Famous Vespa Scooter

NEW YORK -- With the official start of summer and the peak travel season just weeks away, gas prices are once again skyrocketing to record highs and consumers are again feeling the pain at the pump.

More Americans are beginning to utilize gas-sipping and eco- friendly motor scooters as a smart and safe option that could dramatically reduce gas consumption and bring substantial economic and environmental benefits to Americans and the communities in which they live.

According to a survey conducted by ICR on behalf of Piaggio Group Americas, 30% of U.S. consumers indicated that they would be extremely or somewhat likely to consider using a scooter for 35% of the mileage currently traveled by car, truck or SUV - yielding a willingness of consumers to convert 10% of mileage to a scooter. If Americans were to switch just 10% of their mileage to scooters, they would consume 14 million gallons less fuel per day.

-- It costs approximately $5 to fill the empty tank of a scooter.

-- Scooters tend to offer gas mileage of approximately 70 miles per gallon.

-- Over 70% of Americans are concerned with global warming, which points toward their receptiveness of alternative, environmentally-friendly forms of transportation.

-- In addition to their fuel savings, research has shown that theuse of motor scooters can also dramatically improve traffic congestion and produce significant time saving from urban commutes.

Who: Paolo Timoni, President and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas

What: Mr. Timoni is the President and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas, a leading manufacturer of scooters and motorcycles marketed under the Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio and Vespa brands. In his current position, Mr. Timoni has responsibility and oversight of all sales and marketing operations within North, South and Central America.

From: Scootering USA

Posted by Frank at 11:21 AM

Dodge Magnum Has 'Big Red Wagon' Contest for Father's Day

-- In honor of Father's Day, East Coast dads and their children have a chance to win two new sets of wheels - a 2007 Dodge Magnum for dad and a Radio Flyer wagon for the kids

-- Dodge will donate $25 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia for each team that registers for the challenge

-- Families ready to jump on the contest's wagon can register online at www.DodgeMagnumBigRedWagon.com

AUBURN HILLS -- According to a recent Dodge brand survey, 68 percent of fathers had a little red wagon when they were children. In honor of Father's Day, the Dodge brand is helping dads carry on the wagon tradition with their children by giving dads a chance to win their very own big red wagon, an all-new 2007 Dodge Magnum, along with a new little red wagon in a one-of-a-kind Father's Day challenge.

Dodge will kick off Father's Day weekend on Friday, June 15 by inviting teams of fathers and their children to participate in the "Dodge Magnum Big Red Wagon" challenge in Philadelphia, Pa. From flipping burgers and packing up the car for a family outing to perfecting touchdown passes, up to 15 fathers will have the chance to test drive their super-dad skills by racing through a dad-themed obstacle course.

Each obstacle course station will bring to life the iconic ways families spend Father's Day. The father who earns the best score will win the keys to the ultimate family vehicle - a 2007 Dodge Magnum - and all participating teams will receive a little red Radio Flyer wagon, along with a variety of other prizes.

In addition to celebrating Father's Day, the Dodge brand will also recognize the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia and the positive impact they have on children by making a donation of $25 for every team that signs up to participate in the challenge, for a total donation of up to $5,000.

"The Dodge Magnum is a stylish, high-performance vehicle that's perfect for modern dads, and the little red wagon is the iconic set of wheels for children," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Marketing and Communications. "We are creating this one-of-a-kind challenge to give dads a chance to flex their modern muscles, have fun with their children and compete for a chance to bring home two new sets of wheels for the family - the Magnum and Radio Flyer wagon."

The Challenge

Up to 15 teams comprised of fathers and up to two children between the ages of three and 10-years-old will be invited to participate in the "Dodge Magnum Big Red Wagon" event in Philadelphia, Pa. Interested consumers can register online at www.DodgeMagnumBigRedWagon.com beginning Thursday, May 10 until Monday, June 4 at 11:59 p.m. (EDT).

During registration, participants will be asked to submit a 250-word essay answering the following questions - "Why would winning a Dodge Magnum be the ultimate Father's Day gift; and how would a new Dodge Magnum help you be a better dad?" All participants must be 18 years or older, hold a valid driver's license at the time of entry and must be the parent or legal guardian of the child(ren) on their team.

All participants must be legal residents of Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia or Washington D.C., and are responsible for transportation to and from the "Dodge Magnum Big Red Wagon" event.

Dads Dish on Fatherhood

According to a Dodge brand survey more than seven out of 10 Americans (71 percent) picked barbecues as the activity they most associate with Father's Day. To bring this tradition to life, the Dodge brand will heat up the "Dodge Magnum Big Red Wagon" event by firing up a gigantic HEMI(R) grill for the challenge attendees. Additional survey results revealed:

-- Like Father, Like Son: Within one year of becoming a father, nearly one
in three dads (32 percent) admitted to doing or saying something their
father used to do or say. By the time their children were three-years-
old, more than half of all dads (56 percent) had done or said the same
thing their father used to do or say
-- Sharpest Tool in the Shed: Thirty-seven percent of dads would love to
get new tools while 29 percent of fathers have their eye on a new car
for Father's Day
-- Growing Pains: More than half of all dads (54 percent) say the most
enjoyable part of fatherhood is "watching their children grow." Forty-
one percent of dads say "teaching their children new things" is the
most enjoyable part of being a dad
-- Small Screen Dads: Nearly 44 percent of Americans identify Cliff
Huxtable of "The Cosby Show" as the most iconic TV dad. Mike Brady from
"the Brady Bunch" was next in line with 25 percent of the votes

2007 Dodge Magnum

The 2007 Dodge Magnum is a stylish alternative for consumers who want the comfort and performance of a car, and the capability and image of a sport- utility vehicle (SUV), without sacrificing everyday functionality. Magnum offers a bold, unique profile; exceptional versatility; and rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive performance. Nothing else is like it on the road.

Fortified with integrated safety and security features, the 2007 Dodge Magnum provides outstanding occupant protection on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Dodge Magnum a five- star rating for driver and front-passenger protection in a frontal crash, the highest rating in the U.S. government's safety crash-test program.

About the Dodge Brand

With a U.S. market share of approximately 6 percent, Dodge is the Chrysler Group's best-selling brand and the fifth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2006, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market. Dodge continues to lead the minivan market with a 20 percent market share in the U.S. In the highly competitive truck market, Dodge has a 15 percent market share. Dodge is also entering key European volume segments with Nitro and Caliber.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia is a founding member of a national youth development movement consisting of Boys & Girls Clubs of America and 3,900 local organizations that collectively serve more than 4.5-million young people. Serving Philadelphia with quality out-of-school-time programs since 1887, the Clubs' mission is to help youth, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances, develop the qualities and skills they need to become responsible citizens and leaders.

Permission has been obtained from Radio Flyer Inc. relative to the use of its name and trademark rights

[1] These results are based on an online survey of 2,063 American adults conducted by Ipsos Insight using the US Online Express omnibus. Of this total number of interviews, 544 were conducted with fathers. Interviews were conducted between May 3rd and May 8th, 2007. The final data are statistically weighted to reflect the actual age and gender of the U.S. population and are balanced by region.

With a sample of 2,063 people, one can say with 95% certainty that the overall results are within +/- 2.2 percentage points of what they would have been had the entire American population been surveyed. The margin of error based on 544 American fathers is +/- 2.2 percentage points.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 11:14 AM

CCC Publishes Report on Factors Driving Auto Collision Repair and Total Losses

Report shows lower claim frequency; examines factors contributing to changes in vehicle mix and complexity and the relationship to rising repair costs and total losses

CHICAGO -- CCC Information Services Inc. today announced the availability of its 2007 Crash Course, an annual report on the many factors impacting collision repair and total lost costs.

Among the topics addressed in the report is the increased competition among vehicle manufacturers which has led to a proliferation of new vehicle models.

The report looks at how the use of specialty equipment and materials, including expensive metals, engine types, electronics and safety features is impacting the collision repair industry. A full copy of the report, in its 12th year of publication, is available by visiting http://www.cccis.com/.

According to the report, the platform-sharing that began in the 1990s as a way for manufacturers to more quickly and cost-effectively produce vehicles has, over time, evolved into a more modular approach where manufacturers mix and match components to produce a wide range of different vehicles. The increase in model variations impacts sales -- the number of models selling less than 100,000 units grew in 2005 to 117 from 54 in 1999, but also has far-reaching implications for the collision repair industry and parts suppliers.

"Model proliferation, coupled with greater vehicle complexity means more parts, more inventory to manage and more electronics," said Susanna Gotsch, Director and Industry Analyst, CCC. "Each of these factors requires more training for insurance appraisers, repairers and mechanics, which costs time and money, and also has potential negative impacts on cycle time and customer satisfaction."

Another trend addressed in the report is declining claim frequency, which has translated to fewer repairers for the collision repair industry -- a situation aggravated by the increase in the percentage of vehicles deemed non-repairable of total loss. Nearly 13 percent of the vehicles for which an appraisal was generated were flagged as total loss in 2006, showing a slow, but steady increase from previous years.

CCC's data warehouse, which contains vehicle and repair-related information from 100 million estimates processed through its system, is the primary source of trending information included in Crash Course. CCC also includes third party research to highlight broader industry trends, providing Crash Course readers with a comprehensive view of the auto-claims industry. A mid-year report with year-to-date information will be available in Summer 07.

Source: CCC Information Services Inc.

Posted by Frank at 11:11 AM

Volvo Puzzles the Greatest Mysteries of the Deep

Volvo holds global treasure hunt for real-life buried treasure as tie-in to Disney's new movie Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

Join The Hunt now through May 29 at volvocars.us/thehunt

IRVINE, Calif. -- Where in the world did Volvo sink its treasure? That's today's hottest mystery of the deep as tens of thousands of online treasure hunters across the globe vie to find a chest filled with $50,000 in gold doubloons and a key to a new Volvo XC90, at volvocars.us/thehunt.

To inspire, entertain -- and possibly even distract -- all would-be pirates on their quest for the treasure, Volvo Car Corporation offers up some other great watery mysteries from over the ages.

"Okay, okay. Maybe it is a stretch to call The Hunt one of the greatest mysteries of the deep, but it certainly has got a lot of people flummoxed," said Linda Gangeri, national advertising manager for Volvo Cars of North America. "We thought some of our more prodigious participants might enjoy pitting their wit and skill against some age-old mysteries ... but even if they solve them, the only way to get your hands on Volvo's treasure is by joining our Hunt!"

-- The Experiment in Suruga Bay -- There's something in the water in
Japan's Suruga Bay. In the past few years alone, there have been
sightings of giant squid, giant eel and most recently, a prehistoric
frill shark. The primordial soup that is Suruga Bay also has espoused
certain legends that include a mythical sea monster akin to Loch Ness
and the fictional sludge monster portrayed in 1971's Godzilla vs. The
Smog Monster.

-- The Mary Celeste -- The archetypal "ghost ship," the Mary Celeste
carried a crew of 10 and a cargo of industrial alcohol when it set sail
in 1872. A month later, the ship was found drifting in the
Mediterranean with no one aboard and nine barrels missing. While many
theories have been introduced, none have yet been proven. However, one
very important maxim comes to mind: "Don't drink and drive."

-- The Bermuda Triangle -- An imaginary area in the South Atlantic, "the
Devil's Triangle," is infamous for the disappearance of ships and
vessels. A persuasive (yet scientifically unproven) account of the
phenomenon was made in the 1978 Scooby Doo episode "A Creepy Tangle in
the Bermuda Triangle." The age-old culprit behind the mystery? Ghost
pirates, of course.

-- The Sirens' Song -- In ancient Greek lore, the Sirens lured sailors to
their doom from a craggy island perch with a haunting melody. Perhaps
more mythology than mystery (it's all Greek to us), was the music so
distractingly beautiful or awful?

-- Waterworld -- The 1995 post-apocalyptic epic is widely considered to be
one of the greatest enigmas in film history. It remains a mystery of
the cinematic age how and why such an expensive and convoluted film
became an international box office success.

-- The Blair Cuspids & The Sea of Tranquility -- In 1966, the image of a
rather unusual rock formation on the surface of the Moon's Sea of
Tranquility casting remarkably long shadows confounded scientists and
continues to do so to this day.

-- The Philadelphia Experiment -- An alleged government-sponsored
experiment said to have taken place in late 1943, The Philadelphia
Experiment purportedly used electromagnetic radiation and gravity to
make a naval ship temporarily disappear off the Atlantic coast.

-- Billy Ocean's "Mystery Lady" -- This smooth classic cracked the R&B Top
10 back in 1985 and scores of Billy Ocean fans far and wide still
wonder if the singer ever, in fact, managed to "get something started"
with this unidentified temptress.

-- The Great Face on the Pacific Ocean Floor -- Some have argued that,
when taken together, the topographical images of the vast ocean floor
form the face of God. This supposition has met with resistance from
similarly zealous believers who already are committed to the image of
the Virgin Mary in a potato chip.

The Hunt, http://volvocars.us/thehunt, part of Volvo's official promotion of Disney's upcoming film Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, is a challenging and engaging series of online clues and puzzles, that ultimately will result in one finalist going to the "burial" location to retrieve $50,000 in gold doubloons and a key to a new Volvo. The Hunt is open to participants age 18 and over through May 29.

In addition to the United States, Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Kingdom are participating in The Hunt.

Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End opens in U.S. theaters May 25.

Participants in The Hunt are encouraged to visit http://thehunt07.spaces.live.com/, Volvo's treasure hunt blog and message board, to learn more and discuss the Hunt's developments.

Source: Volvo Cars of North America

Posted by Frank at 11:08 AM

Volkswagen competing in 39th annual Baja 500

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. has officially entered two Volkswagen Motorsport Dakar Rally vehicles in this year’s running of the Tecate SCORE Baja 500, June 1-3, 2007.

This will be the first race for the Race Touareg 2 vehicles in North America, and also marks the first ever Volkswagen factory racing entry in the legendary SCORE desert series racing. The Volkswagen team will feature an international cast of Volkswagen works drivers ready to tackle the challenging terrain of the Baja peninsula.

Race Touareg # 81i will be driven by American Mark Miller with his South African co-driver Ralph Pitchford. For Miller, the 45 year old Phoenix, Arizona native, this event will be a unique opportunity to bring together his experience and success from two of the most revered off-road races in the world. He is a five time Baja Champion and the highest finishing American driver ever in a four-wheeled vehicle at Dakar, taking fourth place overall this past January with Pitchford onboard as co-driver.

Piloting Race Touareg # 83i will be South African Giniel de Villiers and German co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz. While this will be the first SCORE race for de Villiers, the 34 year old driver from Stellenbosch, South Africa, he is very familiar with the turbo diesel powered Race Touareg, having placed second overall in the 2006 Dakar rally.

The Race Touareg 2 is powered by an ‘in-line’ five cylinder, 2.5-liter four-valve per cylinder TDI diesel engine, fitted with a two-stage intercooled turbo-charger system. In this configuration, the engine produces 285 horsepower and over 440 ft.lbs of torque. The engine is positioned longitudinally behind the front suspension, and sends its power to a longitudinally mounted six-speed sequential race gearbox. A permanent four-wheel drive system featuring three mechanical differentials with viscous locking is used to provide superior traction.

“Volkswagen is looking forward to being involved in the 39th Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 500. It is a tremendously famous racing event worldwide, and running our Race Touaregs in North America is an excellent opportunity for us to show the potential of the Volkswagen TDI diesel engine technology”, said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. “It will be a great experience not only from a technical standpoint, but also for our logistics, race preparation and team organization.”

"SCORE is extremely excited to have these two international Volkswagen factory Race Touaregs competing in the Tecate SCORE Baja 500," said Sal Fish, SCORE CEO and President for over 30 years. "We are also looking forward to enjoying the performance of the Volkswagen Turbo Diesel engines in this environment. Volkswagen engines are the most successful in the history of desert racing and this is a wonderful opportunity for all of us involved with this unique and incredible motorsport."

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