Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: August 19, 2007

August 25, 2007

Volkswagen is the Official Pace Car of SCCA and SCCA Pro Racing

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Volkswagen and Sports Car Club of America announced today an official partnership naming Volkswagen the Official Pace Car of SCCA and SCCA Pro Racing.

As part of its official sponsorship, Volkswagen will provide pace vehicles for the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships and the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T as well as course vehicles for The Tire Rack(R) SCCA Solo National Championships.

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August 25, 2007

Video: GM's Bob Lutz Enthuses About Chevy HHR SS

GM's Bob Lutz discusses some of the new features found on the Chevy HHR SS at the 2007 Woodward Avenue Dream Cruise in metro Detroit.

Chrysler Minivan Designer Jeff Gale Comes Full Circle

by Mike Ellis, Chrysler Communications

Chrysler designer Jeff Gale has been involved with some of Chrysler’s most exciting designs, including the SRT-8 versions of the Chrysler 300, the Dodge Charger and the Dodge Magnum.

But he welcomed the chance to work as part of the design team on the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans – after all, his own family was about to grow with twins on the way.

“What keeps your job as a designer interesting is that you get different products into the studio all the time,” he said. “The minivan was kind of a welcome change, especially because we knew that there were a few of us that were planning on having kids soon.”

That is why many at Chrysler like to say that the minivans were designed by people with families, for people with families.

Gale, now the father of three daughters, said that minivans are now “near and dear to his heart.”

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GM's Troy Clarke to Lead Corvette Racing Pep Rally

Chevrolet is pleased to welcome racing’s return to the Motor City as Corvette Racing and the American Le Mans Series make their inaugural appearance racing right in our own backyard at the 2007 Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix August 31-September 2.

You are invited to join GM North America President Troy Clarke, along with Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper, as they lead GM employees and Corvette enthusiasts in a pep rally cheering on Corvette Racing’s own drivers Oliver Gavin, Olivier Beretta, Johnny O’Connell, Jan Magnussen, Ron Fellows and Max Papis for Corvette Racing’s inaugural appearance at the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix.

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Saturn Announces Pricing For All-New 2008 Astra Model Range

DETROIT -- The all-new 2008 Saturn Astra will not only provide a European flavor and taut ride-and-handling characteristics to the North American market but will also offer a wide range of standard equipment, safety features, and very good fuel economy for an MSRP of under $16,000.

Equipped with a DOHC 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine (140 horsepower) and a five-speed manual transmission, the 2008 Saturn Astra 5-Door XE will be offered at an MSRP of $15,995. The uplevel Astra 5-Door XR will start at $17,545 and the sporty Astra 3-Door XR will be priced from $18,495. All prices include shipping and destination charges.

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GM'S 2008 Global Powertrain Lineup Provides More Miles with Less Fuel

General Motors Corp. will introduce 14 new or significantly revised powertrains in the 2008 model year – including five 1.0L to 2.0L small-displacement engine variants – with a focus on saving fuel and improving performance in GM’s cars and trucks.

For 2008, GM’s powertrain lineup includes hybrids, clean diesels and fuel-saving technologies such as Active Fuel Management, direct injection, variable valve timing, six-speed transmissions and flexfuel options for consumers.

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GM Takes New Combustion Technology Out of the Lab and Onto the Road

PONTIAC, Mich – Engine experts have dreamt about it, talked about it and lectured about it, and today – for the first time – General Motors is letting outside parties drive the “most awaited advanced combustion technology” of the past 30 years.

GM demonstrated the combustion process, known formally as homogeneous charge compression ignition, or HCCI, for the first time in two driveable concept vehicles, a 2007 Saturn Aura and Opel Vectra. When combined with the enabling advanced technologies such as direct injection, electric cam phasing, variable valve lift and cylinder pressure sensing, HCCI provides up to a 15-percent fuel savings, while meeting current emissions standards.

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Nissan Employees Give $1.3 Million to United Way

NASHVILLE – For the 14th consecutive year, employees at Nissan North America have contributed more than $1 million to support the United Way. Nissan employees who work in the company’s plants in Tennessee and Mississippi and in its Nashville headquarters have donated a total of $1.3 million to benefit people served by nonprofit agencies in their local communities.

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Diesel Power: 1986 Volkswagen Jetta Has 562,000 Miles On Original Engine

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced that, as part of its Diesel Heritage Search, it has located the highest mileage Volkswagen diesel vehicle in the United States, a 1986 Jetta Turbo Diesel owned by Syl Schmid of Blue Rock, Ohio with over 562,000 miles.

The Jetta’s mileage was recently verified by Volkswagen of America, Inc. and Byers Imports, a Columbus, Ohio-based Volkswagen dealer. Fuel and mileage records presented by Schmid show the Jetta frequently delivered fuel economy over fifty miles per gallon.

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Commerce Cept. Recognizes Hyundai for Minority Biz Development

ATLANTA -- In conjunction with the 25th anniversary of Minority Enterprise Development Week, the U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency held an awards luncheon in Atlanta, Ga., to recognize minority entrepreneurs and their supporters. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, LLC (HMMA) was recognized during the annual luncheon as the Atlanta Regional Minority Business Advocate of the Year.

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Nissan Announces $50,000 Grant to Hispanic Achievers

NASHVILLE – Nissan North America, Inc. announced today that it has contributed $50,000 to the Hispanic Achievers – a program of the YMCA of Middle Tennessee.

“Nissan is proud to support the Hispanic Achievers Program in its efforts to help the Hispanic community reach educational success,” said Stephanie Valdez Streaty, Sr. Manager of Philanthropy and Diversity Communications, Nissan North America, Co. “It provides us an opportunity to make a difference in the very neighborhoods we serve.”

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U.S. National Basketball Team Signs One-of-a-Kind Vehicle for Child Safety Network

LAS VEGAS -- Today in Las Vegas the entire U.S. National Basketball team and coaching staff lent their names to a Signature Series Dodge Viper to help raise funds and awareness for the Child Safety Network (CSN).

President of USA Basketball, Jerry Colangelo was the first to sign the CSN Viper before practice in Las Vegas followed by Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Amare Stoudemire, Dwight Howard, Jason Kidd, Chauncey Billups, Redd Miller, Tyson Chandler, Tayshaun Prince, Deron Williams, Mike Miller and Michael Redd Team coach Mike Krzyzewski, and his coaching staff.

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Toronto 2007 Hip-Hop Summit Stresses Financial Literacy

Toronto -- The Hip-Hop Summit Action Network and Chrysler Financial Canada convened its second international Hip-Hop Summit at Toronto's Hummingbird Centre on Saturday, August 18, 2007 to empower young people with the basics of financial literacy.

Gabrielle Union, Essence Atkins, hip-hop stars Belly and Keisha Chante, R&B/pop star Letoya Luckett, seminal hip-hop artist and radio personality Monie Love, DJ Starting From Scratch, local hip-hop entrepreneur Charles Brown, Gino Cozza, President and Chief Executive Officer for title sponsor Chrysler Financial Canada, and Chrysler Financial experts Monique Tate and Stanford Wongus joined Summit co-moderators HSAN President/CEO Dr. Benjamin Chavis and Executive Director Valeisha Butterfield for the 2007 Toronto "Get Your Money Right" Summit.

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BMW Financial Services Ranks Highest in Dealer Satisfaction for 4th Straight Year

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- For the fourth consecutive year, BMW Financial Services (BMW FS) ranked highest in dealer satisfaction for retail leasing in the J.D. Power and Associates Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study.

BMW Financial Services provides financial services to more than 625,000 customers in the United States and leases or finances more than half of the new BMW vehicles sold there.

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Chrysler Launches 2007 United Way Torch Drive with Employee and Executive Participation

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The rain may have put a damper on the outdoor activities, but employee spirits were high as The New Chrysler kicked off its United Way employee giving campaign, drawing thousands of employees and top company executives together to raise money for the 2007 United Way of Southeast Michigan Torch Drive.

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MADD Illinois to Join Labor Day Crackdown on Drunk Driving

CHICAGO-- The following advisory is being issued by Mothers Against Drunk Driving:

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Illinois will hold a news conference to kick off a statewide drunk driving crackdown that aims to keep our streets safe at a historically dangerous period -- Labor Day weekend.

MADD is working with law enforcement this holiday weekend to send the message: if you drive at or over the illegal limit, you will be under arrest.

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New Tech Helps Check for California Smog Regulations

EAST GRANBY, Conn. -- Environmental Systems Products (ESP), in partnership with Waekon, has earned the industry's first and only certification to provide California's Smog Check stations with low-pressure fuel evaporative testing equipment. The BAR-Certified EVAP unit is an innovative solution engineered specifically to help California achieve its clean air goals under the new emission regulations.

The low-pressure fuel evaporative testing (LPFET) regulations take effect Nov. 1, 2007, when all Smog Check stations must be equipped with certified equipment to maintain their licenses. The LPFET program, an enhancement of California's Smog Check Program, addresses ozone and federal clean air standards by locating leaks in the evaporative systems of vehicle fuel tanks and vapor lines.

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Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- As competition in the auto finance market intensifies, many lenders are deploying full-spectrum strategies, which consists of lenders servicing both prime and sub-prime customers, to increase volume and market share and to improve service to their dealers, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study released today.

The study finds that many prime finance providers are making the transition to the sub-prime market, with 57 percent of dealers utilizing traditionally prime lenders for sub-prime customers. Conversely, only 33 percent of dealers report using traditional sub-prime lender services for their prime customers.

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Auto Insurer Joins Coalition to Protect Florida's Drivers

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Ocean Harbor Casualty Insurance Company, an auto insurer that specializes in providing basic coverage policies to Florida drivers, has joined the Coalition to Protect Florida's Drivers.

Ocean Harbor is the second auto insurer in recent weeks to join the Coalition, which is calling on Governor Charlie Crist, Senate President Ken Pruitt and House Speaker Marco Rubio to address the looming sunset of no-fault auto insurance in the special session which begins September 18.

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Ford Brings Onboard Successful Grads as Community Ambassadors for 2007 Black College Road Trip

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Let the games begin! On Aug. 21, after an extensive search for two successful Historically Black College and University (HBCU) graduates, Ford announced the selection of Opal T. Mabry and Jamal Wallace to participate in the 2007 Ford Black College Road Trip community outreach adventure.

Dubbed "Roadies", Mabry and Wallace will travel more than 8,000 miles across the U.S. for 13 weeks, in an all-new 2008 Ford Expedition EL customized by Funkmaster Flex. They will visit 10 HBCU Football Classic games in cities like Atlanta, New Orleans, Baltimore and Memphis.

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August 24, 2007

Ford Verve Concept Hints at Ford’s Future Small-Car Design Vision

FRANKFURT, Germany -- Ford Verve Concept – a bold and colourful concept car to be revealed at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show – gives the first hints of Ford’s future small-car design vision.

The significance of the Ford Verve Concept is that it's the first physical evidence of the design direction for an all-new small Ford since it was announced earlier this year that the European arm of the company's global Product Development group is taking the design and engineering lead in creating a new small-car portfolio for major world markets.

The Ford Verve Concept is the first of three concept vehicles which will debut in key regions – Europe, Asia and North America.

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Land Rover Launches the 2008 LR2 HSE

IRVINE, Calif. -- Since its introduction in April 2007 the all-new Land Rover LR2 has enjoyed strong sales and to reinforce its line-up in the U.S., Land Rover North America today announced the introduction of a new and enhanced derivative -- the LR2 HSE.

This new version has a sportier stance than the LR2 SE due to body color bumpers and side sills, a rear spoiler, titanium door handles and 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Changes to the interior see 8x6-way power adjustable seats and a storage box with a sliding cover.

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Honda's Indiana Plant Begins Accepting Applications for Production Positions

GREENSBURG, Ind. -- Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) will begin accepting applications for production positions Sunday, Aug. 26, 2007, through the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (IDWD). Advertisements calling for applications will appear in newspapers beginning Sunday.

Applications will be accepted for a two-week period through Sunday, Sept. 9, 2007 with the first phase of hiring beginning later this year. HMIN will employ approximately 2,000 associates when the automobile plant in Greensburg reaches full production.

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Michelin's Latest Innovation: Tires That Regenerate Themselves

DALLAS -- Imagine a tire with a tread that regenerates itself as it wears. It's not science fiction or a scene from the "Transformers" movie, it's reality at Michelin. Today at the Great American Truck Show (GATS) in Dallas, Michelin is unveiling the latest innovation from its Michelin Durable Technologies research - the new XDA5 drive tire for Class 8 rigs.

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U.S. Automakers Endorse Knollenberg Legislation to Ensure U.S. Industry Voice in Trade Cases

WASHINGTON -- The Automotive Trade Policy Council (ATPC), whose members include Chrysler, Ford and General Motors, has endorsed H.R. 1127, legislation introduced by Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) that would ensure that U.S. automotive companies and other U.S. manufacturers have a voice in anti-dumping and countervailing duty trade cases.

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Chrysler Gives Family of Chicago Bank Robbery Victim First All-new Dodge Grand Caravan

CHICAGO -- Surrounded by 160 dealers waiting to drive-away their first all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan or Chrysler Town and Country minivan, Chrysler LLC and the Chicago Dodge Dealer Ad Association donated the first 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan in metro-Chicago to the family of Tramaine Gibson, Sr., age 23, the bank teller killed during the Illinois Federal Savings bank robbery on May 22.

"Having this Dodge Grand Caravan is a tremendous blessing to us," said Ashley Gibson, Tramaine Gibson's widow. "We are a family of seven with two small children requiring car seats so traveling can be difficult. In the past, we have either had to take two separate vehicles or rent a minivan. So, we thank God and the entire Chrysler Corporation for this blessing."

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Smart Brit Girls Choose Ford Couture

LONDON -- Smart and savvy girls who want value for money and low environmental impact are welcoming the Mayor's proposed changes to the London Congestion Charging system.

These changes mean that motorists with cars that have very low C02 emissions, like the latest diesel-powered Ford Fiesta, will be able to drive in and out of London without paying the daily charge.

Lisa Snowdon, television presenter and model is pictured here in a unique couture 'money dress' made literally from the GBP2,000.00 she could be saving by driving a new Ford Fiesta diesel in the congestion charge zone next year. The 'money dress' designed by a student from the London College of Fashion comprises four hundred GBP5 notes.

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Chrysler Donates $100,000 to Forgotten Harvest to Feed the Hungry

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The Chrysler Foundation and Chrysler Financial have presented Forgotten Harvest with a $100,000 donation at the annual Woodward Dream Cruise. The donation will go toward Forgotten Harvest's $3.6 million capital campaign for its new headquarters in Oak Park, Mich.

"We are pleased to assist Forgotten Harvest in its mission to drive out hunger from our communities," said Brian Glowiak, Vice President of The Chrysler Foundation. "At The New Chrysler we have a passion for helping the communities where we live and work and helping to feed those in need is a job that should be done everyday."

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Toyota, Honda and Nissan Top List of Most Popular Hybrid Vehicles

COSTA MESA, Calif. -- NADAguides today released data regarding the most researched Hybrid vehicles at its website during the month of July 2007.

In addition to evaluating the Hybrids that car buyers researched most often last month, the company evaluated which new Hybrid reviews were read most often during that same timeframe.

NADAguides Most Researched Hybrid Vehicles, July 2007:

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August 23, 2007

General Motors to Showcase New Hydrogen, Electric Vehicles at Frankfurt Auto Show

In essence, the environmental strategy of General Motors Europe is to reduce CO2 emissions in the short term and introduce new propulsion technologies in the long term.

The goal is to offer customers vehicles that can operate on many different energy sources. “The multi-tiered approach includes accelerating the development of electrically powered vehicles, stepping up efforts to replace fossil fuels and increasing the efficiency of gasoline and diesel engines,” explains Carl-Peter Forster, GME President.

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Saab at Frankfurt: 30 years of turbo technology

In September 1977, Saab took the automobile world by surprise when it presented its first model with turbocharging at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

Exactly 30 years on, the Swedish premium brand is celebrating this anniversary with the Turbo X, the most powerful Saab to date and top-of-the-line car in the completely newly designed 9-3 model line.

The spotlight is also on Saab’s leading position with its BioPower range in the fast-growing European “Flexfuel” vehicle segment.

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HUMMER H2: Film star to “Transform” at Frankfurt

The HUMMER H2 character from the new “Transformers” film has turned the SUV into a film star, and will wow every fan of the archetypal American cult brand.

The car can be seen on a screen at the Frankfurt Auto Show ‘transforming’ from the HUMMER H2 rescue vehicle into “Autobot Rachet”.

2008 Corvette: new V8 engine with even more output

The Corvette goes into model year 2008 with an “LS3 small block” V8 engine enlarged to 6.2-liter displacement.

The aluminum unit produces 321 kW/436 hp and torque of 586 Nm (preliminary values). LS3 and optional six-speed automatic transmission combine to create the fastest automatic Corvette ever: zero to 96 km/h (0-60 mph) takes only 4.3 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 306 km/h.

GM engineers have also made chassis and interior enhancements to the sixth Corvette generation.

Cadillac's New BLS Wagon at the Frankfurt Auto Show

The new Cadillac BLS Wagon is the star of the Cadillac stand at the Frankfurt Auto Show. The US luxury brand also presents the new generation of the CTS sedan - the BLS Flexpower - to IAA visitors.

The complete model year 2008 with the STS luxury sedan, SRX crossover, “full-size” Escalade SUV and high-performance XLR-V roadster is also on display.

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Chevy to debut new Aveo at Frankfurt Auto Show

From bold minicar concepts, the world premiere of the Aveo to the excitingly styled HHR, Chevrolet – the brand with the characteristic bow-tie logo – displays the great diversity of its brand at the IAA 2007.

The highlight – the new Aveo fastback – is joined by the popular, cost-saving and especially environmentally friendly LPG models. Several Chevrolet country organizations - in France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, for instance – offer a retrofit program to LPG for various vehicles.

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Opel at the Frankfurt Auto Show: ecoFLEX initiative and new Agila

Part of Opel’s environmental strategy includes the introduction of low-emission ecoFLEX versions in Opel/Vauxhall’s high-volume model lines. These cars combine economy and driving fun with low consumption and reduced CO2 emissions.

The premiere model in the Opel/Vauxhall ecoFLEX range is a Corsa 1.3 CDTI, which produces just 119 g/CO2 per kilometer. The Corsa ecoFLEX debuts at the IAA 2007 and is available from 2008.

Natural gas is another alternative fuel. Opel currently offers two models ex works with this especially environmentally friendly and economical form of propulsion: the Zafira CNG and Combo CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) consume just 5.0/4.9 kg of natural gas per 100 km (138/133 g CO2/km respectively). The seven-seat Zafira CNG emits just under 20 g CO2 per kilometer and seat.

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Bringing the Saab Convention Home

By Steve Shannon
General Manager, Saab Automobile USA

August is shaping up to be an exciting month for Saab.

This weekend, Saab owners and enthusiasts from all over North America — and beyond — will gather in Michigan for the 25th annual Saab Owners Convention.

Why is this so exciting? This convention commemorates the 60th anniversary of Saab as a car manufacturer, and it’s happening right here in GM’s back yard. I like to think that the choice of the Great Lakes Saab Club as host of the event is an acknowledgment of the important role that Saab, GM’s only European luxury brand, is playing in GM’s future.

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HUMMER Supports World-Famous Rubicon Trail

DETROIT - For the second consecutive year, HUMMER supports Friends of the Rubicon (FOTR), with a $5,000 donation to provide materials, food and tools for the hundreds of volunteers who work with the organization to maintain the Rubicon.

Friends of the Rubicon is an informal coalition of groups and individuals dedicated to keeping the one of the world's most famous off-road destinations, the Rubicon Trail open and available to off-roaders.

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Report: Asia to Surpass Europe as Largest Regional Vehicle Market by 2009

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Automotive sales growth in the Asia Pacific region is projected to surpass Europe's by 2009, according to J.D. Power and Associates.

By 2009, the Asia Pacific region is expected to net 23 million sales, compared with 22.7 million sales in Europe. The Asia Pacific region is already home to the world's second- and third- largest light-vehicle markets -- China and Japan -- and future sales will be bolstered by continued growth in China, plus expected expansion in India, Southeast Asia and Korea.

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Posted by Frank at 9:19 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink| Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics

Getting Your Vehicle to Perform Its Best

BROADVIEW, Ill. -- How your car, minivan or SUV performs ultimately depends on the type of vehicle you drive and what it was designed for in the first place.

However, new technology in premium spark plugs allows drivers to extract the best performance their vehicles can offer without compromising fuel economy.

"From copper to platinum and iridium - modern spark plugs help motorists get a lot closer to experiencing the highest level of performance and fuel economy their vehicle is capable of producing," said Reid Smith, product manager for spark plugs for Robert Bosch LLC.

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Survey: Drivers Unable to Judge Braking Distances

LONDON -- Gauging the distance it takes to stop a moving vehicle is a vital skill, but some UK motorists' understanding of braking distances is so poor that they claim its takes over two miles to stop their cars.

A new study by motor insurer Highway reveals that most drivers are unable to name the correct braking distances. More worryingly from a safety perspective, even when informed of the correct braking distance, most drivers are simply unable to judge how far that is.

Highway's survey revealed that only 9% of drivers could get close to naming (within 10%) the correct braking distances for a car moving at 30mph, 50mph and 70mph. Of the 250 drivers surveyed, only two actually knew the correct distances in metres for all three speeds.

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Sat-nav Giant Helps UK Motorists Beat Holiday Blues

MOTORWAY madness is not going to stop Brits from escaping this August bank holiday weekend.

New research, for sat-nav giant Garmin, reveals that three quarters (75%) of Brits reckon that either gridlocked traffic (43%) or longer journeys due to traffic (32%) are the worst things about driving on bank holiday weekends.

Even so, one in three Brits (32%) said that they don't try to avoid driving on bank holiday weekends.

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Magna Powertrain Establishes Its First R&D Center in China

CHANGZHOU, China -- Magna Powertrain, a group of Magna International Inc., a global top five tier-one supplier in the auto industry, announced on August 16 that Magna Powertrain (Changzhou) Co. Ltd., had been established and put into production in the Changzhou National Hi-Tech District in Jiangsu, where the company has founded the first engineering (R&D) center in this district of China, besides the already-existing manufacturing facility.

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VW May Bolt Out of Detroit

Already slammed by job losses due to cost cutting by the area's car companies and by their agency shifts, Detroit is facing another blow -- this time from Volkswagen of America and sibling Audi of America.

The automakers are considering a move of their North American headquarters out of Michigan, according to executives and managers familiar with the matter. The Detroit News reported that the relocation areas under consideration are the Washington D.C. region or North Carolina.

But the executives and manager told Advertising Age the decision is contingent on whether VW also decides to start building vehicles in one of those locales -- which would mark the German automaker's first U.S. plant since 1988.

Auto franchiser sponsors fundraiser for Holy Cross Children's Services with Detroit Tigers

WARREN, Mich. -- Automotive Franchise Systems (AFS), a Warren based automotive and home service franchisor is organizing a fundraiser for Holy Cross Children's Services (HCCS), with the help of the Detroit Tigers. The fundraising event takes place Wednesday, September 26th, 7:05 p.m. at Comerica Park. The Tigers will be playing the Minnesota Twins in the last game before the playoff race begins.

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Housing, Mortgage Crunch Will Drag Vehicle Sales to Lowest Level in Nine Years

NORTHVILLE, Mich. -- The deepening downturn in new housing starts, combined with soaring consumer debt triggered by rising adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs), will continue to put the brakes on U.S. light vehicle sales through the remainder of 2007, according to an analysis by automotive market forecasting firm CSM Worldwide.

During a recent CSM Insider Series briefing for automotive supplier executives, CSM analysts reaffirmed their prediction that consumer budgets stretched to the breaking point as a result of the mortgage crunch will drag sales down to 16.2 million units this year -- 350,000 fewer vehicles than in 2006. It would be the lowest sales level since 1998.

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Volvo extends engine range in the Volvo V70 and Volvo S80

Volvo V70 and S80 available with four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines

Both models will be available with four-cylinder engines later this year - either a 2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with 145 hp or a 2-litre turbodiesel with 136 hp.

"More and more buyers focus on fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. It is highly important for us to give them more choices by making our competitive four-cylinder engines available in the new V70 and S80 models too. The 2-litre alternatives offer a very attractive combination of fuel economy and driving pleasure," says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Brand, Business and Product Strategy at Volvo Cars.

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Nissan Extends Reach Into College Football

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Nissan has extended its dedication to college football by becoming an official sponsor of the Southeastern Conference. As part of the sponsorship, Nissan will celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the SEC by partnering with Sports Illustrated on a multimedia commemorative platform highlighting the greatest moments in 75 years of SEC football.

Nissan is proud to once again be the presenting sponsor of the Heisman Trophy and invites fans to vote at www.theheismanvote.com. Last year, a staggering 16,183,682 fan votes were cast to contribute to Nissan’s one vote for the Heisman.

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Ford of Europe Publishes Product Sustainability Index

COLOGNE – In a first for the automotive industry, Ford of Europe has today published its ground-breaking Product Sustainability Index (PSI) report.

Ford's PSI is the most comprehensive approach yet in assessing how the environmental, social and economic impact of vehicles can be addressed from the earliest stages of their development.

The 38 page report gives an insight into the detailed rationale, criteria and approach used in the PSI. It also shows that all three models designed to date with PSI in mind - the all-new Ford Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy - deliver improved sustainability performance in all three key areas: environmental, social and economic performance, when compared to the previous models.

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OnStar Extends Partnership with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children

Detroit and Washington D.C. - Today OnStar announced that its partnership with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) will be expanded to provide geographically targeted AMBER Alert messages to OnStar subscribers.

In addition to this technological advancement, OnStar will contribute $300,000 to NCMEC to support Team Adam, a dedicated group of retired law enforcement officials with expertise in missing children cases.

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Bill Murray: He's in the [DUI] Hole!

STOCKHOLM, Sweden - Bill Murray could face a drunken driving charge after cruising through downtown Stockholm in a golf cart and refusing to take a breath test, citing U.S. law.

Police officers spotted the “Caddyshack” star early Monday in the slow-moving vehicle and noticed he smelled of alcohol when they pulled him over, said Detective-Inspector Christer Holmlund of the Stockholm police.

“He refused to blow in the (breath test) instrument, citing American legislation,” Holmlund told The Associated Press on Wednesday. “So we applied the old method — a blood test. It will take 14 days before the results are in.”

Posted by Frank at 6:26 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink| Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto News

Car sharing graduates to college campuses

For generations, carless college students have had to rely on their own feet -- or bikes, buses and friends' clunkers -- to get around. But, now, a new wave of car-sharing companies is giving kids easier access to wheels.

Companies such as Zipcar Inc. and Revolution LLC's Flexcar -- which allow customers to rent cars for hours or days -- see a lucrative new market in students, a population that has been largely ignored by traditional rental-car companies such as Hertz Corp. and Avis Budget Group Inc.

Indeed, many rental-car companies prohibit those under 21 from renting at most locations. The car-sharing companies, however, are now cutting partnerships with schools nationwide: Flexcar is set to announce deals with Arizona State University and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and this month it added Ohio State University, the nation's largest school by enrollment last year.

Zipcar, the world's largest car-sharing company, says it is launching at between 10 and 15 new schools this fall, including Yale University and Carnegie Mellon University, bringing its total to more than 40.

Continue reading "Car sharing graduates to college campuses"

GM cuts truck, SUV production

DETROIT - General Motors Corp has cut production at six plants that make large pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles as a weak housing market, higher gasoline prices and tough competition have hurt sales, a spokesman said on Wednesday.

The largest U.S. automaker has eliminated previously scheduled overtime through the rest of the year at plants in Arlington, Texas; Janesville, Wisconsin; Silao, Mexico; Fort Wayne, Indiana; Flint, Michigan; and Oshawa, Ontario.

Those plants make pickups such as the GMC Sierra, sales of which fell nearly 28 percent in July, and the GMC Yukon, which slumped 16 percent in July.

Posted by Frank at 6:24 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink| Filed under Auto News | GM

Thrifty Awards 'Triple Miles' With Frequent Flyer Programs and Hotel

TULSA, Okla. -- Thrifty Car Rental, a subsidiary of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc. will offer customers triple frequent flyer miles/points with eight airlines and a hotel partner at participating Thrifty locations worldwide.

The offer is valid on rentals booked in advance on THRIFTY.com from August 15, 2007 through November 15, 2007.

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Toyota’s Olympic Turn

When Toyota took the track at the Daytona 500 in February it fueled a high-octane controversy. The good ole boys of NASCAR railed against the deep-pocketed Japanese automaker running roughshod over stock-car racing just as it had driven Detroit off the road (never mind that Chrysler, which races Dodges in NASCAR, was German-owned at the time).

A General Motors worker even created a Web site entitled “Fans Against Racing Toyotas.” (Yes, the acronym is FART). The blowback against Toyota, though, died down after it failed to win a single race. But Toyota scored an even more significant victory off the track: it overtook GM to become the world’s largest automaker.

And now, Toyota might soon replace GM in another iconic role: official automotive sponsor of the U.S. Olympic team. “Toyota has an obsession with becoming America’s car company,” says Peter De Lorenzo, author of the forthcoming book “The United States of Toyota.” “After NASCAR, grabbing the Olympics would be the next logical step.”

Motorcyclists 'Cruisin' through Oakland County for Children's Leukemia Foundation

CLARKSTON, Mich. -- More than 200 motorcycle enthusiasts will strap on their helmets Saturday, August 25th, to raise money for the Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan.

The 7th Annual David & Wanda Harrison Memorial Charity Ride will roll out of Clarkston Chrysler Jeep at 5:30 p.m., Saturday, August 25th and end at the DTE Energy Theatre for an evening concert featuring popular country music stars, Big and Rich with Cowboy Troy and special guest, Chris Cagle.

Continue reading "Motorcyclists 'Cruisin' through Oakland County for Children's Leukemia Foundation"

AIAG Guidelines Aim To Improve Quality of Automotive Parts

DETROIT -- New guidelines developed by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) aim to improve quality of automotive parts, helping to lower warranty claims and recalls. The automotive industry spent almost $12.8 billion in warranty claims in 2006, according to Warranty Week.

AIAG has specified standard audit requirements for special processes -- heat treat, coatings and platings because OEMs and suppliers are experiencing quality issues in these areas which are impacting product performance on parts such as seat belts and steering gears; interior and exterior painted parts.

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Chrysler and Daimler Partner with AISI to Optimize Future Vehicle Structures

DETROIT -- Vehicle development took a step forward today when Chrysler, Daimler and the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) jointly announced the success of a new project aimed at improving vehicle safety and fuel economy while reducing overall vehicle weight.

By taking a holistic approach to sheet metal structures (body-in-white) and applying new engineering computer modeling technology ("topology") to generate efficient energy and load management, the latest advanced high-strength steels are utilized to achieve lighter weight objectives and improved occupant protection.

Continue reading "Chrysler and Daimler Partner with AISI to Optimize Future Vehicle Structures"

August 22, 2007

Record Breaking $60 Million Haul at Pebble Beach Auction

In above pic, this 1956 Ferrari 250 GT sold for $1,100,000. It was one of many classic vintage cars that sold for over one million dollars at the Gooding and Company Pebble Beach Auction.

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. -- Gooding and Company announced its top results from the company's first-ever two-night Pebble Beach Auction event this weekend, held annually following the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

A high-energy atmosphere in the Damon Drescher (Partner and Sr. Creative Art Director) designed tent set the tone for a capacity filled crowd of bidders at both Saturday and Sunday's auctions that garnered a record breaking more than $60 million dollars in sales.

The multiple record-breaking sales included the 1931 Blower Bentley from the E. Ann Klein Estate for $4.51 million dollars along with a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider, which sold for $4,455,000.00.

Continue reading "Record Breaking $60 Million Haul at Pebble Beach Auction"

LoJack Recovers Lamborghini in European Incident

WESTWOOD, Mass. -- LoJack Corporation, the leading global provider of recovery systems for stolen mobile assets, today announced its Stolen Vehicle Recovery System led Italian police to recover a Lamborghini that was purchased in France and stolen in Italy.

This cross border recovery highlights the effectiveness of LoJack's European Recovery Network, which extends from Italy and France to the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Poland and Russia.

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Automakers, UAW Rally for Raising Vehicle Fuel Economy Standards

ST. LOUIS -- Hundreds of autoworkers, business leaders and government officials from St. Louis and surrounding counties rallied this morning at Gateway Mall in downtown St. Louis, urging federal lawmakers to protect jobs and consumer choice by supporting the bi- partisan federal legislation introduced by Representatives Baron Hill (D-IN) and Lee Terry (R-NE) to raise fuel economy in cars and trucks. Local congressional representatives from Missouri and Illinois were thanked for their support of the bill.

Continue reading "Automakers, UAW Rally for Raising Vehicle Fuel Economy Standards"

Subaru Launches New TV Campaign for 2008 Model Year Lineup

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- As the all-new 2008 Subaru vehicle lineup arrives in dealerships across the country, consumers are seeing new television ads for Subaru that celebrate the brand's values of fun, freedom, adventure, confidence and control.

The four models -- the Tribeca cross-over SUV, the new Impreza four and five-door, the Outback sport-utility wagon and the Legacy sport sedan -- are introduced to consumers as "always ready" for them and their lifestyle.

Continue reading "Subaru Launches New TV Campaign for 2008 Model Year Lineup"

Earl Campbell Lends Names to Lone Star Auto Dealership

AUSTIN, Texas -- Sports fans in North Galveston County are in for a treat when Triton celebrates the grand-opening of "Earl Campbell's Pro Player Auto" on Saturday, Sept. 8.

The dealership (located at 2627 Palmer Highway in Texas City) will host a day-long celebration that will be highlighted by a free youth football skills camp featuring the University of Texas great and NFL Hall of Famer along with appearances by former NFL quarterbacks Ty and Koy Detmer.

Continue reading "Earl Campbell Lends Names to Lone Star Auto Dealership"

Justice Department Fines Philly Ford Dealers for Discrimination

WASHINGTON -- The Justice Department announced today that it has reached separate settlements with two automobile dealerships in the Philadelphia area resolving allegations that the dealerships engaged in a pattern or practice of discriminating against African-American customers by charging them higher interest rates on car loans.

These are the first two cases alleging discrimination by a car dealership filed by the Justice Department under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.

Continue reading "Justice Department Fines Philly Ford Dealers for Discrimination"

2008 Honda Accord Emphasizes Technology, Safety and Performance

Set to go on sale in mid-September, the all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.

Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanor.

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Ford puts their vehicles through tortuous paces

Open_and_Shut%20Case_1.jpg The definition of “Built Ford Tough” is rooted in a series of grueling tests designed to ensure quality, durability and dependability.

Even before the all-new 2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty reached dealerships early this year, prototypes of America’s favorite work truck logged more than 10 million miles of testing in all kinds of conditions – including nearly 3 million miles of real-world customer durability testing in some of the most extreme conditions possible.

From the bitter cold of the Arctic to the blazing heat of the Arizona desert, Ford’s real-world testing for all its vehicles covers a gauntlet of demanding procedures conducted in torturous terrain.

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Volvo's web strategy receives international recognition

With an average of 5 million visitors monthly to its corporate website, online communication is growing in importance for the Volvo Car Corporation. This is a significant rise since 2004 and the numbers of visitors has increased by 45% in the past year alone.

The 2007 single-day record for online users at http://www.volvocars.com/ is 7 million.

"We are becoming a centre of excellence in interactive marketing," says Martin Jobin, head of CRM & Interactive Marketing at Volvo Cars. "We welcome more interactivity with people interested in our cars."

Continue reading "Volvo's web strategy receives international recognition"

LaSorda Says He's Here for the Long Run

by Mike Ellis, Chrysler Communications

Tom LaSorda, Vice Chairman and President of The New Chrysler, made headlines today when he met with the press following the launch ceremony of the new Chrysler and Dodge minivans at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada.

In response to one question, LaSorda quelled speculation about his future. “People have contracts and I entered into a new one, and I’m going to be here a long time,” he told reporters following the Job 1 ceremony.

Continue reading "LaSorda Says He's Here for the Long Run"

VW Sets January to July Sales Record

WOLFSBURG, Germany - With 3.61 million vehicles sold worldwide between January and July 2007, the Volkswagen Group has set a new record for this delivery period.

The increase in sales compared to last year was 8.1 percent. In July, 522,000 vehicles delivered was an increase of 10.2 percent, which was a record for the seventh month of the year.

Continue reading "VW Sets January to July Sales Record"

"Rocket Ranger" Pickup Sets New Land Speed Record

ANKENY, Iowa -- SPAL USA's "Rocket Ranger," driven by Hypermax Engineering's Max Lagod, has set a new land speed record and claimed the title of World's Fastest Diesel Pickup Truck during the Bonneville Salt Flats Speed Week, Aug. 11-17.

The "Rocket Ranger" achieved an average speed of 215.091 miles-per-hour -- nearly 2 miles-per-hour faster than the previous record of 213.583 miles-per- hour in the "C/Diesel Truck" class. SPAL's record is recognized by the Southern California Timing Association/Bonneville Nationals Inc. (SCTA/BNI).

Continue reading ""Rocket Ranger" Pickup Sets New Land Speed Record"

Top Cars for College Students

RICHMOND, Va. -- If your college student's back to school list includes a car, you will want to know which vehicles are recommended for young drivers.

To help students and parents find the best car, CarMax and Driver's Edge, a national nonprofit organization providing youth driver education, have teamed up to recommend the top cars for college students.

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Best Car Lease Finance Companies to Work With

MIAMI -- LeaseTrader.com, the company that helps consumers transfer out of their car lease, announces the top five most consumer-friendly auto lease finance companies.

These companies repeatedly ranked highest in terms of program options, lease transfer times and overall customer responsiveness.

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August 21, 2007

GEM Zero Emission Vehicles Honored for Clean Air Leadership

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- California environmentalists have recognized Global Electric Motorcars, a Chrysler company, for its leadership in bringing environmentally-friendly technology to the state's residents.

The Fargo, North Dakota-based manufacturer received a Blue Sky 2007 Merit Award from WestStart-CALSTART for its "strong and enduring commitment to advanced transportation technology when many other companies were not even considering such options."

The company produces the nation's best-selling street-legal all-electric, zero emission vehicles, the GEM.

Continue reading "GEM Zero Emission Vehicles Honored for Clean Air Leadership"

Dodge Announces Pricing for 2008 Caliber SRT4

AUBURN HILLS, Mich -- Dodge announced pricing today for the latest addition to Chrysler's popular Street and Racing Technology (SRT) vehicle lineup - the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4.

Boasting 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of torque and a 0-60 mph time in the low 6-second range, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is available for $22,995, which includes $560 for destination. The 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 once again delivers the SRT mission of benchmark performance at the lowest price.

"Like all of Chrysler's SRT vehicles, the all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4 delivers customers an unmatched performance/value equation," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Marketing Communications, Chrysler. "With 285 horsepower, 265 lb.-ft. of tire-smoking torque, and numerous functional, race-inspired exterior and interior appointments, Dodge and SRT have once again boldly joined the sport-compact performance market in dominating fashion."

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Q & A: Audi driver Marco Werner on Mosport

INGOLSTADT, Germany - This coming weekend (24-26 August), the former Grand Prix circuit of Mosport, 60 miles northeast of the Canadian metropolis Toronto in Ontario, plays host to the American Le Mans Series.

Audi factory driver Marco Werner talks about the 2.549 mile-long track on which he won in 2003 driving an Audi R8 and around which he competes with the R10 TDI for the first time this year.

After Road America, Mosport is the second fastest circuit on the American Le Mans Series calendar. Do you like the circuit?

Continue reading "Q & A: Audi driver Marco Werner on Mosport"

Lexus and Vogue Kick Off Fashion Season During Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

PEBBLE BEACH — Exquisite design, top talent and innovative fashion converged during "The Lexus Fashion Preview" fashion show at the 57th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

On Friday, August 17, 2007, Lexus and Vogue showcased collections from the next generation of young American design talent to more than 1,500 guests at the premier invitation-only fashion event.

The show—hosted by Vogue's fashion news and features director Sally Singer—revealed the collections from the finalists of the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America/Vogue Fashion Fund initiative.

Continue reading "Lexus and Vogue Kick Off Fashion Season During Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance"

Nissan's New Models to Feature Fuel Efficiency Gauge

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., announced today that all future new models will be equipped with a fuel efficiency gauge to give drivers more information on how their driving style directly relates to fuel economy.

The fuel efficiency gauge will also be equipped in current models scheduled for minor product freshenings.

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Chrysler Windsor Assembly Plant Celebrates Launch of the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan Minivans

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Today, The New Chrysler celebrates the manufacturing launch of the all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans at its Windsor (Ontario, Canada) Assembly Plant.

Nearly 24 years ago, Chrysler launched a new segment of automotive transportation called the minivan. Almost 12 million minivan sales later, Chrysler will launch yet another new minivan featuring an industry- first all-new Swivel 'n Go seating system and a center console table.

Continue reading "Chrysler Windsor Assembly Plant Celebrates Launch of the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan Minivans"

Truckers put Toyota's Tundra to the Test At the Nebraska State Fair

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 via an off-road course with obstacles to showcase the features of the Tundra. Tundra Prove It! is free to all attendees and features the following:

Continue reading "Truckers put Toyota's Tundra to the Test At the Nebraska State Fair"

Toyota's 'Mobile Hybrid Experience' Puts Consumers Behind the Wheel at Minnesota State Fair

Toyota is bringing a nationwide tour called "Highway to the Future: Mobile Hybrid Experience" to the Minnesota State Fair on August 23 - September 3, 2007.

The hands-on "Highway to the Future: Mobile Hybrid Experience" is designed to provide attendees with the opportunity to experience Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, which is found in the Prius, Camry hybrid and Highlander hybrid vehicles, for themselves.

Continue reading "Toyota's 'Mobile Hybrid Experience' Puts Consumers Behind the Wheel at Minnesota State Fair"

Consumers Test New 2007 Toyota Tundra at Farm Progress Show

DECATUR, Ill. -- Toyota is bringing its nationwide tour, "Tundra Prove It!" to the Farm Progress Show in Decatur on August 28-30th. Tundra Prove It! is designed to provide consumers with a firsthand opportunity to experience the all-new 2007 Toyota Tundra, while showcasing its powerful, rugged capabilities.

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Porsche eager to extend championship lead at American Le Mans

Stuttgart -- The only race of the American Le Mans Series outside the United States takes place on Sunday on the outskirts of Toronto, Canada.

On the Mosport International Raceway, Porsche is keen to extend its clear lead in the championship with yet another success LMP2 success after claiming six overall victories and seven class wins in succession.

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Volvo introduces low MPG edition C30

In parallel with Volvo Cars' focus on biofuels and hybrid technology, energy-effiency improvements are continuously being made to the company's conventional drivelines.

The special version of the Volvo C30 called Efficiency has a fuel consumption below 4.5l/100 km, and CO2 emission below 120 g/km.

Additionaly, Volvo Cars will introduce a Powershift gearbox that reduces fuel consumption by about 8 percent.

Continue reading "Volvo introduces low MPG edition C30"

Porsche Mobil1 Supercup premieres in Istanbul

Stuttgart -- This coming weekend the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup competes for the first time as support to the Grand Prix of Turkey. The ninth championship round in Istanbul Park promises to be particularly exciting, thanks to the track's interesting characteristics and also with the extreme competitiveness of the championship.

The 5.338 kilometre Grand Prix track on the Asian side of the Turkish city is regarded as one of the world's most modern circuits. With the width of the track measuring up to 21.5 metres, the Supercup pilots have many chances to overtake. Particularly demanding is the roller-coaster nature of the track and the 14 corners, several of which must be taken virtually blind.

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OnStar Delivers One-Millionth Turn-by-Turn Navigation Route

DETROIT – General Motors OnStar announced today the delivery of their one-millionth OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation route since its launch in the spring of 2006. The company attributes the milestone to subscribers’ increased engagement with the easy-to-use, intuitive system and enhanced availability of Turn-by-Turn capable vehicles in the GM line-up.

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August 20, 2007

North American Saab Owners Convention Celebrates Silver Jubilee

DETROIT – For the first time in history, Saab owners and enthusiasts from all over North America and beyond will gather in Michigan this weekend, celebrating the passion for their cars and the Saab brand.

The Saab Club of North America expects more than three hundred owners and their Saabs to attend the event, opening Thursday, August 23 and running through Sunday, August 26.

Continue reading "North American Saab Owners Convention Celebrates Silver Jubilee"

Chrysler Awards $5,000 at 13th Annual 'Spirit in the Words' Poetry Program

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- In front of a standing-room- only crowd, The New Chrysler awarded $5,000 in prizes to the top three finishers at the "Spirit in the Words" poetry competition at the 32nd annual convention of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), August 8, 2007 in Las Vegas.

The winner, NABJ member Brent Solomon of Albany, Ga., works as a reporter for WALB-TV, an NBC affiliate television station in Albany. He performed his original work, "Corporate Brotha" to capture the first place prize of $3,000.

Continue reading "Chrysler Awards $5,000 at 13th Annual 'Spirit in the Words' Poetry Program"

Nationwide DUI Crackdown Warns Drunk Drivers of Arrest and Prosecution

ARLINGTON, Va. -- As state highway safety and law enforcement agencies across the nation conduct a major drunk driving crackdown over the next few weeks, their efforts are being highlighted with a massive advertising blitz. The message is clear: if you drive drunk you will be arrested and prosecuted.

Continue reading "Nationwide DUI Crackdown Warns Drunk Drivers of Arrest and Prosecution"

AutoCheck Vehicle History Features Expanded Accident Information

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. -- Experian Automotive, a division of global business solutions company Experian Inc., today announced the addition of new and enhanced accident information to its AutoCheck vehicle history reports, expanding its nationwide coverage of police accident report and exclusive frame damage information.

Continue reading "AutoCheck Vehicle History Features Expanded Accident Information"

Toyota Announces Prices for 2008 Highlander Hybrid

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the all-new 2008 Highlander Hybrid.

A best-in-class fuel economy and emissions leader, Highlander Hybrid with Hybrid Synergy Drive has been enhanced for power, roominess and economy in 2008. It is noticeably quieter, larger and smarter, with significantly improved versatility and ride comfort. The 2008 Highlander Hybrid will have one of the most comprehensive lists of standard safety features in the mid-size SUV class where safety is at the top of purchase considerations.

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10 Safe Vehicles Less Than $25,000

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The 10 Safe New Vehicles for Less Than $25,000 list has arrived today, just in time for the final weeks of summer.

Vehicles that made the list had to meet tough standards, which required all vehicles include stability control and a minimum of six airbags (front and side curtain). On some of the vehicles, those safety requirements are not standard and cost a little extra, but even with those extras, all of the vehicles come in under $25,000.

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Kevin Harvick Races for Virginian's Opportunity at $33,000 Cash Prize

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas -- Rebecca Hughes of Abingdon, Virginia will be rooting loudly for Kevin Harvick as he drives the No. 33 RoadLoans Chevrolet on August 25 in the Food City 250 NASCAR Busch Series race.

Harvick will not only hope to take the checkered flag, but he will be racing for Hughes' chance to win $33,000 cash. If he makes a trip to Victory Lane, RoadLoans, a direct-to-consumer auto financer, will award Hughes a $33,000 cash prize in "The King of the Road" Sweepstakes.

Continue reading "Kevin Harvick Races for Virginian's Opportunity at $33,000 Cash Prize"

Driving Skills for Life Brings Teen Safety Message to Wisconsin August 22-23

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Driving Skills for Life will present its ongoing plan for reducing teen auto fatalities at Wisconsin's 33rd Annual Governor's Conference on Highway Safety.

Ford Motor Company Fund, which established Driving Skills for Life in 2003 in cooperation with the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), is one of many organizations that will attend the conference to discuss traffic and auto safety issues and concerns August 22-23 at the New Holiday Inn Hotel and Convention Center in Stevens Point.

Continue reading "Driving Skills for Life Brings Teen Safety Message to Wisconsin August 22-23"

Rally for Reasonable Vehicle Fuel Economy Standards

ST. LOUIS -- The following is being issued by Chrysler, GM, Ford, and UAW:

Auto workers, business leaders and elected officials will hold a demonstration in support of the bi-partisan Hill-Terry vehicle fuel economy bill -- H.R. 2927 -- calling for substantial increases in motor vehicle fuel economy regulations.

Continue reading "Rally for Reasonable Vehicle Fuel Economy Standards"

Jiffy Lube Helps Drivers Save Money on Gas

HOUSTON -- Long road-trips and heavy summer traffic can quickly drain your gas tank -- and your wallet. As drivers continue to hit the road this summer, Jiffy Lube is offering a Fuel Efficiency Review as part of the Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change to help people get the most bang for their buck from every gallon of gas.

Continue reading "Jiffy Lube Helps Drivers Save Money on Gas"

August 19, 2007

Infiniti Introduces New Crossover, M Sedan at Pebble Beach

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. -- The all-new 2008 Infiniti EX35, which goes on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in late December 2007, made its world production debut today on the lawns near the famed Pebble Beach Golf Course's 18th green.

The Infiniti EX35, the latest addition to the Infiniti lineup, was driven onto a platform by Nissan Senior Vice President and Design Director Shiro Nakamura. Also shown for the first time was the new 2008 Infiniti M sport sedan, which features extensive exterior and interior enhancements, as well as the addition of a new all-wheel drive M45x model.

Continue reading "Infiniti Introduces New Crossover, M Sedan at Pebble Beach"

Evacuation: Fill-up Early, Evacuate Early and Stretch your Fuel

HOUSTON -- With hurricane season here, Shell Oil Products US and Motiva Enterprises LLC are encouraging consumers to prepare for potential evacuations and do their part to maximize fuel supply.

During a hurricane, temporary and sporadic supply interruptions may be unavoidable; however Shell and Motiva have put many systems in place from the offshore rigs to the retail stations to better maintain consistent supply of gasoline for consumers.

Continue reading "Evacuation: Fill-up Early, Evacuate Early and Stretch your Fuel"

Car Buyer's Notebook

Recent Stories

Topics

August 25, 2007

Volkswagen is the Official Pace Car of SCCA and SCCA Pro Racing

August 25, 2007

Video: GM's Bob Lutz Enthuses About Chevy HHR SS

Chrysler Minivan Designer Jeff Gale Comes Full Circle

GM's Troy Clarke to Lead Corvette Racing Pep Rally

Saturn Announces Pricing For All-New 2008 Astra Model Range

GM'S 2008 Global Powertrain Lineup Provides More Miles with Less Fuel

GM Takes New Combustion Technology Out of the Lab and Onto the Road

Nissan Employees Give $1.3 Million to United Way

Diesel Power: 1986 Volkswagen Jetta Has 562,000 Miles On Original Engine

Commerce Cept. Recognizes Hyundai for Minority Biz Development

Nissan Announces $50,000 Grant to Hispanic Achievers

U.S. National Basketball Team Signs One-of-a-Kind Vehicle for Child Safety Network

Toronto 2007 Hip-Hop Summit Stresses Financial Literacy

BMW Financial Services Ranks Highest in Dealer Satisfaction for 4th Straight Year

Chrysler Launches 2007 United Way Torch Drive with Employee and Executive Participation

MADD Illinois to Join Labor Day Crackdown on Drunk Driving

New Tech Helps Check for California Smog Regulations

Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives

Auto Insurer Joins Coalition to Protect Florida's Drivers

Ford Brings Onboard Successful Grads as Community Ambassadors for 2007 Black College Road Trip

August 24, 2007

Ford Verve Concept Hints at Ford’s Future Small-Car Design Vision

Land Rover Launches the 2008 LR2 HSE

Honda's Indiana Plant Begins Accepting Applications for Production Positions

Michelin's Latest Innovation: Tires That Regenerate Themselves

U.S. Automakers Endorse Knollenberg Legislation to Ensure U.S. Industry Voice in Trade Cases

Chrysler Gives Family of Chicago Bank Robbery Victim First All-new Dodge Grand Caravan

Smart Brit Girls Choose Ford Couture

Chrysler Donates $100,000 to Forgotten Harvest to Feed the Hungry

Toyota, Honda and Nissan Top List of Most Popular Hybrid Vehicles

August 23, 2007

General Motors to Showcase New Hydrogen, Electric Vehicles at Frankfurt Auto Show

Saab at Frankfurt: 30 years of turbo technology

HUMMER H2: Film star to “Transform” at Frankfurt

2008 Corvette: new V8 engine with even more output

Cadillac's New BLS Wagon at the Frankfurt Auto Show

Chevy to debut new Aveo at Frankfurt Auto Show

Opel at the Frankfurt Auto Show: ecoFLEX initiative and new Agila

Bringing the Saab Convention Home

HUMMER Supports World-Famous Rubicon Trail

Report: Asia to Surpass Europe as Largest Regional Vehicle Market by 2009

Getting Your Vehicle to Perform Its Best

Survey: Drivers Unable to Judge Braking Distances

Sat-nav Giant Helps UK Motorists Beat Holiday Blues

Magna Powertrain Establishes Its First R&D Center in China

VW May Bolt Out of Detroit

Auto franchiser sponsors fundraiser for Holy Cross Children's Services with Detroit Tigers

Housing, Mortgage Crunch Will Drag Vehicle Sales to Lowest Level in Nine Years

Volvo extends engine range in the Volvo V70 and Volvo S80

Nissan Extends Reach Into College Football

Ford of Europe Publishes Product Sustainability Index

OnStar Extends Partnership with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children

Bill Murray: He's in the [DUI] Hole!

Car sharing graduates to college campuses

GM cuts truck, SUV production

Thrifty Awards 'Triple Miles' With Frequent Flyer Programs and Hotel

Toyota’s Olympic Turn

Motorcyclists 'Cruisin' through Oakland County for Children's Leukemia Foundation

AIAG Guidelines Aim To Improve Quality of Automotive Parts

Chrysler and Daimler Partner with AISI to Optimize Future Vehicle Structures

August 22, 2007

Record Breaking $60 Million Haul at Pebble Beach Auction

LoJack Recovers Lamborghini in European Incident

Automakers, UAW Rally for Raising Vehicle Fuel Economy Standards

Subaru Launches New TV Campaign for 2008 Model Year Lineup

Earl Campbell Lends Names to Lone Star Auto Dealership

Justice Department Fines Philly Ford Dealers for Discrimination

2008 Honda Accord Emphasizes Technology, Safety and Performance

Ford puts their vehicles through tortuous paces

Volvo's web strategy receives international recognition

LaSorda Says He's Here for the Long Run

VW Sets January to July Sales Record

"Rocket Ranger" Pickup Sets New Land Speed Record

Top Cars for College Students

Best Car Lease Finance Companies to Work With