Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: October 28, 2007

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November 3, 2007

Honda Introduces Accord Concept Vehicle

LAS VEGAS - Making its world debut at the SEMA show, the Honda Accord Coupe HF-S Concept represents a radical vision for customizing the all-new Accord's design and performance through stylish and functional modifications.

A dual-port exhaust system can provide additional performance when needed while retaining low noise output during relaxed driving. Purely a concept, the Accord HF-S Concept is a creation of Honda Access America, Inc., the U.S. accessory development division.

Continue reading"Honda Introduces Accord Concept Vehicle"

Posted by Frank at 4:01 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Honda

Maybach's Open Roof Concept

Stuttgart– With this study of an open-top landaulet, Maybach has re-enlivened the great art of building majestic automobiles. True to the tradition of exclusive landaulets, the roof of this sparkling white one-off study can be opened fully at the rear, while the chauffeur’s compartment remains completely enclosed.

The passengers are then able to enjoy the clear, blue sky above. Seated in opulent armchairs upholstered in white leather, they are treated to a majestic open-air experience currently unrivalled by any other automobile in an environment of the utmost luxury and exquisite style.

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Hyundai Makes its Mark at This Year's SEMA Show

Full Product Lineup Receives the Customized Touch

LAS VEGAS -- Six distinct Hyundai vehicles made their world debut at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, including the first-ever Elantra Touring "Beach Cruiser" Concept.

In its seventh year at SEMA, Hyundai showed off vehicles spanning its entire product portfolio, proving that customization is not just for sport compacts anymore.

Hyundai in-house customized vehicles include the INCUS "Innovative Customization" Elantra and Mobis "Parts Expo Vehicle" Tiburon. Project vehicles built by aftermarket tuning companies include:

Continue reading"Hyundai Makes its Mark at This Year's SEMA Show"

VIP Luxury Tuner Hyundai Azera

A long-time Hyundai tuner, Shawn Williams from Street Concepts, delivered a sophisticated, bespoke Azera sedan. His team took Hyundai’s flagship and turned it into the “VIP Luxury Tuner.”

The Azera’s custom white pearl paint and black suede seats with white stitching create a sporty look to match the Eibach suspension, MagnaFlow catback exhaust, K&N intake and Brembo brakes.

High-Tech Urban Escape Vehicle from Hyundai

Troy Lee Designs, known for its custom-design racing helmets, sports equipment and apparel, applied its unique artistry to the first-ever Hyundai Veracruz custom. The all-new Veracruz, launched earlier this year, has been critically acclaimed for boldly challenging the Lexus RX350 in quality and performance.

The Veracruz “High-Tech Urban Escape Vehicle” showcases the full potential of this vehicle’s platform in the hands of an enthusiastic tuner shop. The skilled painters applied a classic Troy Lee Designs paint scheme with Momo FXL1 wheels that pair beautifully with the 265/50-20 Nitto 420 tires.

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Hyundai Urban Assault Vehicle

The Ernie Manansala “Urban Assault Vehicle” Accent three-door is the ultimate in budget-friendly, low-weight tuner vehicles.

This Hyundai Accent’s custom high-end performance wide body kit is visually stunning with its red-on-black paint scheme. Add in Momo racing seats and you’ve got a potent mixture of energy and speed.

Hyundai Tiburon, Tricked

The Hyundai Tiburon regularly is at the top of the list of must-see cars at SEMA, and this year is no exception. Its track-inspired styling and handling characteristics inspire tuners with endless possibilities.

To that end, Hyundai’s accessories group, Mobis Parts, created the Hyundai Mobis Parts Expo Vehicle. In addition to the KDM full-body kit by Tomato, supercharger by Next Generation Motorsports and Eibach suspension, this Tiburon features prototype parts that will be in Hyundai dealerships’ parts departments in the near future.

Hyundai Innovative Customization Elantra, "INCUS"

Hyundai has been expanding its aftermarket offerings, which include both aesthetic and performance equipment, that gives owners the tools to customize their vehicles easily and affordably.

Decked out with original Hyundai aftermarket accessories, the “Hyundai Innovative Customization” Elantra was crafted by sister parts company INCUS. This vehicle features concept INCUS parts, including a body kit, 17-inch forged alloy wheels, custom mesh grille, suspension and dual exhaust.

Hyundai Unveils Elantra Touring 'Beach Cruiser' Concept

LAS VEGAS -- Hyundai Motor America showed a colorful glimpse of the future when it took the wraps off the Elantra Touring "Beach Cruiser" Concept at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show today.

The custom concept is derived from the all-new five-door Elantra Touring, scheduled to arrive in the U.S. in 2008, taking advantage of the strong resurgence in small hatchbacks. The Elantra Touring Beach Cruiser Concept was customized by K-Daddyz Kustomz of Bakersfield, Calif., to capture this future model's high-function and fun-to-drive character.

Continue reading"Hyundai Unveils Elantra Touring 'Beach Cruiser' Concept"

Video: Ford SYNC commercial - voice

Ford SYNC Debuts -- as an industry-exclusive, hands-free way to use cell phones and portable music players using voice commands. Sync will be standard on Lincoln products and widely available on Ford and Mercury vehicles. Option price: $395.

For more information, visit www.SYNCmyRide.com

What's New for Mitsubishi's 2008 Outlander

CYPRESS, Calif. -- The Outlander, Mitsubishi's compact SUV, has exciting additions for the 2008 model line up. A 168 hp, 2.4L 4-cylinder MIVEC engine replaces the V6 in the ES model and is combined with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

This model is a smart choice for consumers entering the market who want a value-priced compact SUV with plenty of power and space to take along family and cargo. (Late fall availability.)

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Posted by Frank at 3:04 PM | Filed under 2008 Vehicles | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Mitsubishi

Quick Response Team Delivers New Concept for Beach Pros

LAS VEGAS -- Lifeguards on Southern California's famous beaches have been glamorized by Hollywood for decades. While they share the spirit of adventure and camaraderie, these dedicated men and women are highly trained professionals who take safety very seriously.

Half a world away, a Volvo designer in Sweden who is captivated by lifeguard skill competitions accepted the challenge to design a show car for his heroes. The result, Volvo's XC70 Surf Rescue (SR) concept, pays homage to the brave individuals who protect and serve the ocean-going public.

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Posted by Frank at 2:58 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volvo

Ford mobility ambassadors swim with sharks to snub limits

BRENTWOOD, Essex – Two Ford Mobility ambassadors, who have supported Ford of Britain's drive to get more than 500,000 people with disabilities behind the wheel, put their impairments aside to swim with sharks.

Fraser Bathgate, who is paralysed from the waist down following a climbing accident, and Jason Richards, who was left paralysed from the chest down after a motorcycle accident, both climbed in with the fearsome-looking 10ft Sand Tiger sharks at the Blue Planet Aquarium at Ellesmere Port in Merseyside.

They were using the thrilling experience to promote mobility and accessibility for people with disabilities.

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Posted by Frank at 11:36 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

Ford trucks take gold at Texas Auto Writers Truck Rodeo

DEARBORN -- Ford trucks and crossovers have once again earned gold at the 2007 Texas Auto Writers Truck Rodeo.

The Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-250 Super Duty was chosen "Truck of Texas" and best Heavy Duty Pickup Truck, while Lincoln and Mercury vehicles also took top honors.

"It is a tremendous honor to have the Texas Auto Writers Association recognize a Ford F-Series truck as 'Truck of Texas' for a fifth straight year and a Super Duty for the last three years," said Mike Crowley, Ford truck and SUV group marketing manager. "It's clear that Ford F-Series trucks are king in Texas."

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Posted by Frank at 11:32 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

Ford to collaborate with China Universities on R&D

SHANGHAI, China -- Ford Motor Company today announced the formation of strategic academic alliances with two of China's most prestigious universities – Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (NUAA) and Shanghai Jiaotong University (SJTU) – to increase efforts on the research and development of automotive technologies and sustainable mobility.

The alliances mark the first time that Ford has established formal academic partnerships with universities in mainland China.

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Posted by Frank at 11:31 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Finance

White House Fellows visit Ford's Rouge Plant

DEARBORN -- Fifteen White House Fellows toured the Dearborn Truck Plant at the historical Ford Rouge site today, culminating a four-day educational visit to Michigan that included a meeting with Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford.

Dawn Dunlop, who is serving her fellowship with the U.S. Department of Energy, said the Fellows chose to visit Michigan and Ford because they represent a microcosm of many of the concerns currently facing America.

"There's no denying that right now Michigan is going through a trying reformation, and the auto industry is central to that," she said. "This was a fantastic opportunity for us to come to one state and learn about the issues facing manufacturing, employers and employees, as well as issues regarding education and poverty."

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Posted by Frank at 11:07 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

Honda Pursues Green Building Initiatives

Torrance, Calif. - In addition to its ongoing efforts to improve the environmental performance of its automobile, motorcycle and power equipment products, Honda is working to reduce the environmental impact of its factories and other work facilities through its "Green Factories" and "Green Buildings" initiatives.

This includes increasing energy efficiency, reducing waste and enhancing recycling activities. Through its "Green Purchasing" program, Honda also encourages and supports activities by its more than 600 North American OEM parts suppliers to adopt green factory programs.

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Posted by Frank at 11:02 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Environment | Honda

Daimler Financial Services launches Russian bank

Berlin – With the establishment of its own bank, Daimler Financial Services, the financial services provider of Daimler AG, will be moving into the fast-growing vehicle and consumer credit markets in Russia.

DaimlerChrysler Bank Rus, which will be renamed Mercedes-Benz Bank Rus upon approval by Russia’s central bank, will offer car loans for private and commercial customers in the country. The new bank will officially open in Moscow on November 7, 2007.

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Posted by Frank at 11:01 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance | Mercedes-Benz

2008 Honda S2000 CR to Make Racing Debut in Severe Endurance Race

LAS VEGAS - Seeking to highlight the on-track potential of the new 2008 S2000 CR, Honda announced today that two S2000 CRs will race in the annual "25 Hours of Thunderhill" endurance race on December 1 and 2.

Billed as the "most severe endurance race on the planet," the 25 Hours of Thunderhill will mark the first time the 2008 S2000 CR will compete in a sanctioned motorsports event.

Continue reading"2008 Honda S2000 CR to Make Racing Debut in Severe Endurance Race"

Infiniti Partners With Bloomingdale’s For EX35 Promotion

NEW YORK, NY, October 30, 2007 - Traffic slows to a crawl most days in front of Bloomingdale’s flagship store and its famous Lexington Avenue windows, but on Monday, November 19, 2007 traffic will stop as the store unveils its annual Holiday Window displays; and for the first time, an automaker will be part of the view.

Bloomingdale’s and Infiniti have entered a multi-faceted integrated marketing agreement that places the all-new personal luxury crossover, the Infiniti EX on sale in December, in four Bloomingdale’s stores during the high-traffic Holiday season; in the store’s national advertising and direct mail publications; and makes Infiniti the title sponsor of its fantasy window installations.

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Posted by Frank at 10:45 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Infiniti | Nissan

Saab Helps Drivers Keep an Eye on Safety

Saab’s Driver Attention Warning System is a development project designed to counter two of the most common causes of road accidents: driver drowsiness and inattention at the wheel.

It alerts the driver by using a combination of text and voice messages, or vibrations in the seat cushion, as soon as the risk of drowsiness or inattention is detected.

Unlike similar systems, the Driver Attention Warning System does not rely on measuring an erratic change in the steered direction of the vehicle. It is designed to detect the onset of drowsiness or inattention, rather than the immediate consequences.

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Mitsubishi's Gary Ragle Selected as One of Seven Winners in Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge

Cypress, Calif. -- Toy manufacturer Mattel has announced that Mitsubishi Motors Research and Design of America (MRDA) employee Gary Ragle is among seven designer finalists to be selected in the company's first-ever Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge.

MRDA was among six automotive manufacturers to participate in the challenge, which marked the first time Hot Wheels® has turned outside the company to seek new vehicle designs.

Continue reading"Mitsubishi's Gary Ragle Selected as One of Seven Winners in Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge"

Posted by Frank at 10:40 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Mitsubishi

Video: Ford SYNC commercial - objects

This commercial is for the new Ford SYNC. Ford SYNC™ Debuts -- as an industry-exclusive, hands-free way to use cell phones and portable music players using voice commands.

Sync will be standard on Lincoln products and widely available on Ford and Mercury vehicles. Option price: $395.
For more information, visit www.syncmyride.com

Pontiac To Reveal 2009 Vibe Via Live Webcast

Pontiac will reveal the next generation of the Vibe compact crossover vehicle via a live webcast of the Vibe Slam! event in Detroit.

The all-new 2009 Vibe will offer three unique flavors: the functionally-designed base model, the all-season versatility of the Vibe All-Wheel Drive, and performance inspired Vibe GT.

Continue reading"Pontiac To Reveal 2009 Vibe Via Live Webcast"

Honda Works to Create Environmentally Sustainable Mobility

Torrance, Calif. - Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global warming, emissions reduction and energy sustainability through a comprehensive approach that involves further improvements to gasoline engine fuel efficiency, the development of real-world alternatives to gasoline including natural gas and the hydrogen-powered fuel cell car, and technology for refueling those vehicles.

In addition, Honda is pursuing advances in technology related to energy systems such as solar cells, electrical co-generation and the efficient creation of renewable bio-fuels as part of its effort to develop real world solutions to environmental challenges.

Continue reading"Honda Works to Create Environmentally Sustainable Mobility"

Mercedes-Benz Starts Marketing Campaign On Sustainability

With the introduction of BLUETEC diesel technology to Europe, Mercedes-Benz launches an international advertising campaign on the theme of sustainability.

The first printed advertisements using the new brand design will feature the E 300 BLUETEC to be launched in Germany in December 2007.

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Volvo Gives Humanitarian Award to Comic Relief Founder

LOS ANGELES -- The British Academy of Film and Television Arts/Los Angeles (BAFTA/LA) honored Richard Curtis with its inaugural BAFTA/LA Humanitarian Award presented by Volvo at the 2007 BAFTA/LA Cunard Britannia Awards November 1, 2007 at The Century Plaza Hotel.

The Humanitarian Award presented by Volvo was created to recognize and celebrate a prominent individual in the film and television arts community who has committed their self and career to positively improving and/or changing the community.

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Posted by Frank at 9:25 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance | Volvo

UAW-Ford Reach Tentative Agreement on New National Labor Agreement

The following statement is attributable to Joe Laymon, group vice president, Human Resources and Labor Affairs, Ford Motor Company.

DEARBORN, Mich. -- The United Auto Workers union (UAW) and Ford have reached a tentative agreement on a four-year national labor contract covering approximately 54,000 represented employees in the United States.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank UAW President Ron Gettelfinger, UAW Vice President Bob King and the entire UAW national bargaining committee for all of their hard work and professionalism over the past several months. I would also like to thank the Ford bargaining team for its skill and dedication during this complex and challenging set of negotiations.

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Allstate Fights $150 Rate Cut in California

SANTA MONICA -- The following is being issued by the Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights -- a Department of Insurance hearing beginning Monday, consumer advocates will argue that drivers with Allstate insurance policies deserve an 18.8% rate cut -- an average of $150 per car -- under new rules that limit excessive profits by the industry.

Allstate Insurance Co. seeks five separate exemptions to the regulatory formula that determines auto insurance rates, including one claiming that the company will suffer deep financial hardship if it follows the rule, despite the company's already above-average profitability and shareholder return. FTCR has determined that Allstate is overcharging auto insurance consumers over $300 million per year.

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Posted by Frank at 9:21 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Mitsubishi Announces FY2007 First Half Financial Results and Forecasts

Tokyo -- Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today announced financial results for the first half of the 2007 fiscal year ending March 31, 2008, and outlined its forecasts for the full year.

Mitsubishi Motors posted consolidated net sales of 1,313.4 billion yen ($11.4 billion) for the first half of fiscal year 2007 (April 1 through September 30, 2007), a more than 30 percent increase of 308 billion yen ($2.7 billion) over the same period last year (1,005.4 billion yen) ($8.7 billion). Factors contributing to this increase include increased sales volumes in overseas markets, the start of supplies of SUVs to PSA Peugeot Citroen as well as favorable yen exchange rates.

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Posted by Frank at 12:38 AM | Filed under Auto News | Finance | Mitsubishi

November 2, 2007

Ford Gives Jim Farley U.S. and Global Marketing Jobs

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company announced today that Jim Farley, the company's new group vice president of Marketing and Communications, will add direct leadership of U.S. marketing, sales and service for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles to his duties when he joins Ford in mid-November.

Farley will assume the duties of Francisco Codina, who recently retired from Ford. Farley will lead Ford's U.S. sales and marketing operations, while integrating and accelerating the company's marketing and communications activities worldwide.

"We are making great progress on delivering the vehicles people really want and value. Our quality and safety are on par with the best of the competition. We have the strongest product family we have ever had," said Alan Mulally, Ford's president and CEO. "Now with Jim's expanded role, he and Mark Fields will work together to help everybody understand that Ford cars and trucks are absolutely worthy of consideration once again."

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Volkswagen duo Sainz/Périn wins Cross-Country Rally World Cup

Wolfsburg -- Volkswagen factory driver Carlos Sainz (Spain) and co-driver Michel Périn (France) have won the FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup 2007.

The factory pairing in the Volkswagen Race Touareg secured the title by finishing the UAE Desert Challenge with start and finish in Dubai as the runner-up. In addition, Volkswagen Motorsport achieved the title win in the team classification.

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Posted by Frank at 10:14 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volkswagen

Video: Ford Focus and SYNC commercial - rock on

Ford is releasing the first television commercial for the new 2008 Ford Focus the last weekend of October. The Focus boasts an all-new look, six standard airbags and delivers up to 35 mpg on the highway.

The Focus is also the launch vehicle for SYNC -- a revolutionary new technology developed by Ford and Microsoft that allows users to control Bluetooth-equipped cell phones and MP3 players using voice commands.

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Limited Edition 2008 Chrysler Aspen Signature Series

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC today announced the fifth and final of the limited-edition Signature Series vehicles for 2008: the Chrysler Aspen Signature Series.

"The Chrysler Aspen Signature Series builds on the extensive list of premium features already found on the 2008 Chrysler Aspen, and reflects the original vision of Chrysler founder Walter P. Chrysler: engineering at exceptional value," said David Rooney, Director - Chrysler Marketing and Global Communications, Chrysler LLC.

The 2008 Chrysler Aspen Signature Series begins with the Aspen Limited "E" model, which includes standard fog lamps, power mirrors, chrome molding, roof- mounted side rails, reclining second-row seats, third-row three-passenger seating, overhead console and premium audio system.

Continue reading"Limited Edition 2008 Chrysler Aspen Signature Series"

Aflac to sponsor Carl Edwards for NASCAR Sprint Cup Series

COLUMBUS, Ga. and DELRAY BEACH, Fla. -- Aflac Incorporated and Office Depot today announced a new business relationship within the sport of NASCAR that will help both companies reach new customers, engage the loyal NASCAR fan base and leverage opportunities to grow their businesses.

Building on its successful entry into NASCAR in 2007, Aflac will serve as the primary sponsor of Carl Edwards and the No. 99 Ford Fusion for eight races. In addition, Aflac will be onboard the Office Depot No. 99 Ford Fusion as an associate sponsor for all other races during the 2008 NASCAR Sprint Cup season.

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Posted by Frank at 9:20 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News

Audi TT dubbed best real car by vid maker

Gran Turismo Awards Crowns 2007 Audi TT as 'Best in Show' at SEMA 2007

LAS VEGAS -- Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA), publisher of the Gran Turismo series, the world's best selling racing game franchise with over 47 million units shipped worldwide, hosted the fifth annual Gran Turismo Awards last night in conjunction with the 2007 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) auto show in Las Vegas.

This year's highly anticipated event featured a distinguished line-up of automotive entries from top SEMA show exhibitors representing five categories, all vying for the coveted "Best in Show" title, which went to Marcel Horn for his 2007 Audi TT.

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Posted by Frank at 9:20 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Audi | Auto Marketing | Auto News

BMW Group Reports 9.6% Increase in October Sales

Year-to-Date Sales of BMW Group up 8.2 Percent

WOODCLIFF LAKE -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported October sales of 26,821 vehicles, an increase of 9.6 percent over the 24,464 vehicles sold in October 2006.

The BMW Group also increased its year-to-date sales volume to 275,094 vehicles, up 8.2 percent, compared to 254,297 vehicles in the same period of 2006.

Continue reading"BMW Group Reports 9.6% Increase in October Sales"

Posted by Frank at 6:14 AM | Filed under Auto News | BMW | Industry Statistics | MINI

Mazda Reports Double Digit Sales Increase for Three Months Running

- October sales up 17.8 percent; YTD sales up 9.9 percent -

IRVINE, Calif. -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported its best October since 2001 with U.S. sales of 22,201 units, a 17.8 percent increase versus the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 250,597 are up 9.9 percent year-over-year.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) celebrated its best-ever sales month with 1,532 vehicles sold representing an increase of 91 percent over October 2006. On a year-to-date basis, MMdM reported 13,074 total sales, an increase of 141 percent.

Continue reading"Mazda Reports Double Digit Sales Increase for Three Months Running"

Posted by Frank at 6:11 AM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Mazda

Karputer Awarded UK Patent for Vehicle-mounted Computers

Karputer, the European leader in advanced in-car computing systems, has been awarded a patent for vehicle-mounted computer systems.

The UK Patent GB 2 412 789 covers vehicle-mounted computers that are integrated with the vehicle’s existing electrical and audio systems, fitted into the vehicle’s interior and controlled by touch-screen or voice recognition.

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Posted by Frank at 6:09 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Car accessories

Zipcar Renews Relationship with Liberty Mutual

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- Zipcar today announced that it has extended its relationship with Liberty Mutual to provide its members, age 21 or older, with up to $300,000 in auto liability coverage.

"Liberty Mutual is an innovative, leading provider and we consider them a partner in offering the best product and service to our membership," said Zipcar CFO Ed Goldfinger. "Our members have let us know that liability insurance coverage is important to them and we have responded with an enhanced solution. In addition to better serving our 180,000 existing members, we hope the coverage program will encourage more people to consider car sharing as an alternative to ownership."

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Posted by Frank at 6:07 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Dakar Veteran Ronn Bailey to Drive 2nd Hummer for Team Dakar USA

LAS VEGAS -- Team Dakar USA, the elite off-road racing group established to operate Gordon's Dakar efforts, announced today the addition of Dakar veteran and off-road driver Ronn Bailey to its racing platform. The announcement was made at the Toyo Tires booth at the SEMA trade show, the premier automotive aftermarket industry event.

Bailey, who is CEO of Vanguard Integrity Professionals, an enterprise security software company, will participate in the next three Dakar Rally events as an integral part of Team Dakar USA and more importantly as Gordon's esteemed teammate.

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Posted by Frank at 6:07 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Hummer

Auto Show of the Palm Beaches Returns

PALM BEACH, Fla. -- After a successful debut last year, the Auto Show of the Palm Beaches presented by Northwood University returns to the Palm Beach County Convention Center December 6 - 9, 2007.

The inaugural four-day exhibition last year attracted nearly 25,000 people with its impressive display of cars, trucks, SUVs, concepts and vans. This year, the industry's major manufacturers are already making arrangements to participate in the exhibition and bring to Palm Beach County residents a sneak peak at 2008 models.

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Posted by Frank at 6:07 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News

Goodyear's Eagle F1 Wins Another Award

Ultra-High Performance Tire Wins Popular Mechanics Award

LAS VEGAS -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE:GT) has just introduced its latest ultra-high performance tire, yet the new Eagle F1 Asymmetric has already begun capturing rave reviews and product awards from respected independent sources.

This week, at the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric received the Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice Award for New Products. The tire is becoming available this month at many retail tire outlets.

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Posted by Frank at 3:20 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

November 1, 2007

GM Beats Industry Trend, Reports 310,008 October Sales

DETROIT - GM dealers in the United States delivered 310,008 vehicles in October, 8,700 more vehicles when compared with year-ago performance, outpacing an industry expected to show a volume decline of about 4 percent.

For the third consecutive month, on an unadjusted basis, total sales increased, with October up 3 percent. When adjusted for selling days, sales declined 1 percent. It is anticipated that GM will see its fourth consecutive month with market share above 24 percent. Since August, market share is up more than 1 point, to 25.1 percent, compared with the same three month period last year.

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Porsche U.S. Sales up 22% for October

ATLANTA -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars and Cayenne SUVs in the United States and Canada, today announced second-best ever October sales of 2,862 units in the United States.

In the first 10 months of this year, Porsche has sold 29,140 new cars, which is on track to repeat last year's record sales.

Continue reading"Porsche U.S. Sales up 22% for October"

Posted by Frank at 4:38 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Porsche

Porsche Reports Canada October Sales up 18%

ATLANTA -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars and Cayenne SUVs in the United States and Canada, today announced record sales of 156 for the month of October in Canada, an increase of 18 percent over the same period last year when sales were 132.

The previous best October sales were achieved in 2005 when sales were 141.

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Posted by Frank at 4:38 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Porsche

Volvo Awards Environment Prize to Amory B. Lovins of Rocky Mountain Institute

GOTEBORG, Sweden -- One of the world's most well known advocates for energy efficiency, Amory B. Lovins, chief scientist of the Rocky Mountain Institute in Colorado, received the Volvo Environment Prize at a ceremony in Stockholm November 1st.

The 1.5 million SEK Volvo Environment Prize ($235,390 USD) awarded by an independent foundation and the selection committee is comprised of internationally recognized scientists and researchers in the fields of economics and environmental studies.

Continue reading"Volvo Awards Environment Prize to Amory B. Lovins of Rocky Mountain Institute"

Subaru Reports October Impreza Sales up 22%, Tribeca up 15%

SUBARU-OF-AMERICA-INC.-IMPR.jpg

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported October sales of 14,979 units. Sales of the all-new 2008 Subaru Impreza posted an October record up 22 percent over the same period last year, while the redesigned Subaru Tribeca also posted a double digit gain.

"Despite challenging market conditions, enthusiasm for the new 2008 Subaru models remains strong," said Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "In addition to strong consumer demand, the new products have been receiving numerous awards and accolades and we hope to see this momentum continue to build through the end of the year."

Continue reading"Subaru Reports October Impreza Sales up 22%, Tribeca up 15%"

Posted by Frank at 4:34 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Subaru

Hyundai Reports Flat October Sales

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai Motor America's popular Santa Fe and Sonata vehicles posted sales increases of 15 percent and 28 percent, respectively, for the month of October.

Additionally, the fuel-efficient Accent posted strong sales, up 32 percent over October 2006. Overall, sales for the month were relatively flat at 30,232, compared with 30,479 one year ago.

Continue reading"Hyundai Reports Flat October Sales"

Posted by Frank at 3:44 PM | Filed under Auto News | Hyundai | Industry Statistics

Chrysler Announces October Sales Down 9%

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC reported U.S. sales for October 2007 of 145,316 units; down 9 percent compared to October 2006 with 159,586 units sold. All sales figures are reported as unadjusted.

"Growing concerns about the housing slump are showing up in consumers' expectations about future economic conditions as auto sales for the month of October continue below trend levels," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President - U.S. Sales. "Today's company announcement on product changes reflects our customer-driven philosophy and current market conditions."

Continue reading"Chrysler Announces October Sales Down 9%"

Shell Introduces Pay by Fingerprint

Drivers Get New Level of Convenience and Security With Gasoline Industry's First Pay At The Pump Biometric Payment Service

CHICAGO -- For the first time, drivers can pay for their gasoline with just the touch of a finger thanks to a new payment method Shell Oil Products US is piloting in Chicagoland starting this week.

Shell is the first gasoline retailer in the world to adopt Pay By Touch's convenient and secure biometric payment technology. Shell is piloting Pay By Touch at 10 Chicagoland retail locations.

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Posted by Frank at 3:36 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Turning Clocks Back Increases Risk of Drowsy Driving

More than a third of drivers admit to dozing at the wheel

NEW YORK -- When clocks turn back Saturday night, roads and highways may become more dangerous, says The National Road Safety Foundation, Inc. (NRSF), a non-profit that provides free driver safety films and programs for schools and other organizations.

"Once we move the clocks back this weekend, the drive home from work or school for many will likely be in the dark," says Fraydun Manocherian, Founder and Chairman of The National Road Safety Foundation.

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Posted by Frank at 3:30 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Safety

Kia Announces October Sales Up 4.5%

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced record October sales of 25,185 units, a 4.5-percent increase over the previous month, and a 25-percent increase year over year.

Leading the way for the brand were Spectra and Sportage, two popular models in the Kia lineup, selling 5,898 and 4,334 units respectively. Year-to-date sales are 257,228 units, a 6.3-percent increase over the same period last year.

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Posted by Frank at 3:30 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Kia

Mitsubishi Reports 15.8% Year-to-Date Increase Through October

CYPRESS, Calif. -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today reported October sales of 9,280, virtually unchanged from last year's October volume of 9,288.

Calendar year-to-date (CYTD) sales are 115,106, remaining well ahead of the first ten months of last year (99,392), up 15.8% compared to last year's first-ten-months total.

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Posted by Frank at 3:30 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Mitsubishi

Acura Announces October Sales Up 9.5%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record October sales of the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV and strong MDX luxury SUV totals pushed Acura light-truck sales to a fifteenth consecutive record breaking month.

October RDX sales of 1,937 units, up by 9.5 percent versus last October, tallied a third consecutive record month while MDX sales continued strong by surpassing October 2006 sales by 426 units. Year-to-date MDX volume reached 47,809 units, up 13.9 percent.

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Posted by Frank at 3:11 PM | Filed under Acura | Auto News | Industry Statistics

Nissan Announces October Sales Up 8.8%

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported sales of 84,947 units in October, up 8.8 percent from the prior year.

Nissan Division sales increased by 9.8 percent over last year. Infiniti Division sales increased by 1.8 percent versus the prior year.

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Posted by Frank at 3:11 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Infiniti | Nissan

American Honda Reports Flat October Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted record October sales of 114,799 Honda and Acura vehicles, surpassing the previous October 2005 record of 110,895, the company announced today. Based on the daily selling rate*, October sales declined 0.2 percent due to one additional selling day compared to last year.

Year-to-date, American Honda sales increased 2.5 percent to 1,308,319. Honda Division year-to-date sales increased 4.3 percent to 1,158,707.

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Posted by Frank at 3:11 PM | Filed under Acura | Auto News | Honda | Industry Statistics

Defective Chinese Tires Still for Sale

PHILADEPHIA -- An investigation led by attorney Jeffrey Killino has uncovered evidence that 3,500 recalled Chinese tires are available for sale in the Arizona area.

In response, Killino is filing a motion to halt a California tire dealer from selling these potentially defective tires. He also called on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to re-open an investigation into an August recall that should have captured them.

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Posted by Frank at 1:44 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Safety

GM Schedules Release of Third Quarter 2007 Financial Results

DETROIT - General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM) has scheduled the release of its third quarter 2007 financial results for Wednesday, November 7, 2007 at 7:00 a.m. EST via PR Newswire and GM Media Online (http://media.gm.com).

In addition, GM Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer Fritz Henderson will host a conference call at 9:30 a.m. EST. The call will include a review of the company's financial results, followed by a question-and-answer session with financial analysts and media. The call is expected to last approximately 90 minutes.

Posted by Frank at 1:42 PM | Filed under Auto News | Finance | GM

Mercedes-Benz Sales Up 10.8% for October

MONTVALE, N.J. - Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported its strongest month of the year and its best October on record with sales of 22,820 new vehicles, an increase of 10.8 percent over last October (20,598).

This brings MBUSA's year-to-date sales to 203,085, a 2.8 percent increase over the same period in 2006 (197,599), setting an all-time record for the company.

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Posted by Frank at 12:58 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Mercedes-Benz

Toyota Reports October Sales Flat Compared to Last Year

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever October sales of 197,592 vehicles, an increase of 0.5 percent over last October.

"Showroom traffic was strongest from the Midwest through the Gulf States," said Jim Lentz, TMS executive vice president. "In Southern California, wildfires crimped a key market already impacted by the housing downturn."

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Traditions Brings Holiday Style to the Walter P. Chrysler Museum

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The Walter P. Chrysler Museum, in Auburn Hills, will don its holiday finest for Cars, Trees & Traditions, a special exhibition featuring authentically decorated vintage trees, nostalgic ads, seasonal photos of Detroit over the decades and written narrative highlighting American holiday customs, Nov. 17 - Dec. 30, 2007.

The exhibition kicks off with seasonal family fun Saturday, Nov. 17 during a free admission grand opening from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

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Volvo Sales Decline 7.4% in October

IRVINE, Calif. -- Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA) reports sales of 7,771 units in the United States for the month, representing a decrease of 7.4 percent compared to the same period last year.

Overall in North America (United States, Puerto Rico, Canada and Mexico), Volvo sales were down 8.1 percent for the month, with 8,452 units sold. October sales in Canada and Mexico were 433 units (down 26.4 percent) and 248 units (up 14.3 percent) respectively.

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Posted by Frank at 12:21 PM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Volvo

XM's Holiday Music Programming Begins Today

WASHINGTON -- XM, the nation's leading satellite radio service with more than 8.5 million subscribers, today announced that it will once again offer a suite of dedicated holiday music channels during the upcoming holiday season.

XM kicks off its seasonal programming today with the launch of contemporary holiday hits channel "Holly" (XM 103). Additional channels will launch later in the month, including XM's Radio Hanukkah, the first-ever national broadcast channel devoted exclusively to Jewish Culture, which will also return for the 2007 holiday season.

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Posted by Frank at 12:19 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Audio

Record Sales for New Crossovers Help Ford Stem Loss

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company's all-new crossovers continued outpacing the competition in October, achieving their highest monthly sales to date.

Combined sales of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury crossover vehicles in October were 36,852, up 145 percent compared with a year ago. Year-to-date through October, crossover vehicles were up 59 percent, the largest increase of any major manufacturer.

Ford Edge sales were 14,133 and Lincoln MKX sales were 3,787. Over the last six months, the Ford Edge has been the top-selling mid-size crossover vehicle in the U.S. The redesigned Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner crossovers posted higher sales than a year ago. Escape sales were 12,174, up 27 percent. Mariner sales were 2,554, up 19 percent.

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Volkswagen develops Touareg TDI for famous Baja 1000

Wolfsburg -- In the 2008 motorsport season, Volkswagen of America, Inc. will start contesting the popular U.S. off-road racing series SCORE with a Touareg TDI.

The Touareg TDI will be developed specifically for the extremely tough demands of the Mexican peninsula Baja California, which, since 1967, has been the annual venue of the most famous event of this kind – the Baja 1000.

The Volkswagen prototype will be prepared for the “SCORE Trophy Truck Open Production – Unlimited Class”.

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Volkswagen driver Carlos Sainz continues in second at UAE

Wolfsburg -- One day before the end of the UAE Desert Challenge the Volkswagen factory drivers Carlos Sainz and Michel Perin (Spain/France) in second place overall continue on their course for the title in the 2007 FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup.

On the 339-kilometre loop they initially took the lead on Thursday, but then lost 18 minutes after getting stuck in the sand and finished the day in fourth place place.

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Posted by Frank at 12:06 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volkswagen

Michelin Dominates The Field at SEMA

LAS VEGAS -- At this year's SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show in Las Vegas, Michelin demonstrates its unmatched tire performance capabilities and dominant position in the auto industry by displaying exclusive vehicles from the world's most iconic race teams, tuning companies and car manufacturers.

Michelin's SEMA booth focuses on Michelin's dominance across three specific segments: track, tuner and street, with a vehicle lineup that includes Audi's R10 TDI, APR R8 and an R8 sports car; Porsche's DHL Penske RS Spyder, Champion Racing Porsche and the 911 GT3RS; Corvette's C6.R race car, Lingenfelter Z06 and a special tire display announcing an answer for the growing number of Corvette owners who insist on using Michelin replacement tires.

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Audi Reports October Sales Increase of 15.4%

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - Audi of America, Inc. today announced that sales for the month of October totaled 7,421 vehicles. These figures represent a 15.4% increase over last year’s figures, resulting in the best October ever. To date, Audi has sold 75,900 vehicles in 2007, a 10% increase over the previous year.

Several key markets recorded significant increases, including New York (+24.3%), Miami (+19.8%) and Los Angeles (+22.9%).

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Posted by Frank at 11:58 AM | Filed under Audi | Auto News | Industry Statistics

VW reports October Sales Up 8.3%

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced October 2007 sales of 17,260 Volkswagen brand vehicles. This represents an increase of 8.3 percent over the 2006 figure of 15,942 units.

These results reflect increased inventories and expanded 2008 model availability of the core Jetta model line. October 2007 Jetta sales of 7,771 units represent an increase of 39.3 percent over October 2006.

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Posted by Frank at 11:58 AM | Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics | Volkswagen

Bentley Motors Announces Launch of 'Crewe Genuine Parts' Website

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Bentley Motors today announced the launch of www.crewegenuineparts.com, the company's newly launched web portal, which will allow public access to more than 50,000 genuine replacement parts for all Bentley and Rolls-Royce cars produced at the company's Crewe, England factory from 1955 to the present day.

The new web portal is an outgrowth of Bentley's efforts to ensure that the value of customers' Crewe-built vehicles are maintained by using only genuine replacement parts.

It is but one example of the company's commitment to providing customers of Crewe-built vehicles the very best ownership experience, even long after the initial sale.

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Honda Celebrates 25 Years of Production

MARYSVILLE, Ohio -- The first Japanese auto plant to build a car in America(1) turns 25 today, marking a milestone that brought innovation to the U.S. auto industry and vaulted Honda (www.honda.com) to a leadership position.

The 5,300 associates at Honda's Marysville Auto Plant will not miss a beat as they spend the day building more than 1,800 cars and light trucks. Later this month, they will hit another milestone -- production of the plant's nine-millionth vehicle.

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Toyota Unveils All-New Corolla Matrix at SEMA

LAS VEGAS -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new second-generation Corolla Matrix at a press conference today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.

The Toyota Matrix, the sporty five-door vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2009 model year to offer performance that matters for driver enjoyment.

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Posted by Frank at 10:59 AM | Filed under 2009 Vehicles | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Toyota

Dunlop Gets More Ink in Vegas

LAS VEGAS -- Dunlop's in-your-face guerilla marketing is getting some ink at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show this week.

Make that stylized Dunlop tattoos that enthusiasts can wear home this year. In fact, 24-year-old Fernando Diaz, an automotive enthusiast from Houston, received his second Dunlop inking; he got his first last year, along with a set of tires.

"I needed another set," Diaz said, as a Las Vegas artist fashioned a smoking tire with Dunlop's "Flying D" logo. Not to be outdone, Denny Jusczak, of Forest Lake, Minn., said this was his third.

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Posted by Frank at 10:56 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News

Vote 'Hero' in the 6th Annual Volvo for life Awards

IRVINE, Calif. -- The Presidential election is one year away, but an important group of people already needs your vote. Forty of the country's top heroes have been identified and are now in the running to be named "America's Greatest Hometown Hero" in the 6th Annual Volvo for life Awards.

Beginning today, the American public can visit http://www.volvoforlifeawards.com/ and vote for their favorite heroes. This democratic vote will decide the program finalists in Volvo's annual nationwide hero search. Three winning heroes will receive $100,000 for their charities. One extraordinary winner will receive a new Volvo car every three years for life.

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Posted by Frank at 10:51 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volvo

A Hatchback By Any Other Name Is A ...

Shush! The hatchback is back, but don't call it a hatchback. "If you say 'hatchback,' people tend to think of a yellow Pinto," says Art Battaglia, product manager for the Volvo C30, one of the latest vehicles in a new crop of hatchbacks from luxury manufacturers.

Volvo calls the C30 a "coupe." And at Audi, the A3 is always referred to as a "sportback." According to a study by CNW Marketing Research, cars with traditional trunks are still the most popular body type among new car buyers, but hatches are generating significant interest. In the "near luxury" category, just over 20% of new car buyers said they preferred a hatchback to a sedan or station wagon.

Avoidance of a "hatchback" connotation isn't just endemic to luxury brands. The Mazda3 is called a "5-door." Toyota prefers the term "liftback" for a version of its wee Yaris. And the difference between a four-door wagon and a five-door hatch is sometimes just in the name.

Posted by Frank at 10:44 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News

Chrysler fires 12,000, cancels four models

Chrysler LLC today announced that it would make volume-related reductions at several of its North American assembly and powertrain plants, and eliminate four products from its line-up.

Shifts will be eliminated at five North American assembly plants which, combined with other volume-related manufacturing actions, will lead to a reduction of 8,500-10,000 additional hourly jobs through 2008.

Additional actions include reductions of salaried employment by 1,000 and supplemental (contract) employment by 37 percent. The Company also plans to eliminate hourly and salaried overtime and reduce purchased services due to reduction in volume.

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Kia Unveils Spectra5 SX Concept at SEMA

Concept Displays Aspects of Future Design Language for Kia

LAS VEGAS -- Kia Motors America (KMA) displayed its sporty new concept vehicle, the Spectra5 SX concept, at this year's SEMA Show today in Las Vegas.

A product with influences from KMA's design team, the Spectra5 SX sets the stage for future concept and production vehicles to be shown throughout the upcoming auto show season by putting into action some of the styling cues that will soon become part of Kia's new overall design language.

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Posted by Frank at 8:55 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Kia

Volkswagen Showcases Clean Diesel at SEMA

Three New Specialty Vehicles Highlight Personalization, Performance and Clean Diesel

LAS VEGAS -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. showcases its commitment to clean diesel performance and unique vehicle personalization with three new concepts on display at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show.

Volkswagen's Dieselution Tour, a mobile marketing exhibit showcasing clean diesel, will be staged outdoors in the plaza and will provide the backdrop for the latest in clean diesel performance and unique Volkswagen personalization.

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Fisker Automotive Reveals Plug-In Sports Sedan

IRVINE, Calif. -- Quantum Technologies, a publicly traded company and Fisker Coachbuild, LLC disclose continuing developments of the first production vehicle to come from Fisker Automotive, Inc. -- the green American premium car company.

The four-door plug-in hybrid premium sports sedan will make its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January with a starting price of $80,000. Initial deliveries will commence in the 4th quarter of 2009 with annual production projected to reach 15,000 cars.

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Hyundai Continues Rollout of XM Radio on 2008 Models

XM Radio to Be Factory-Installed Feature on 2008 Hyundai Tiburon, Accent and Tucson

LAS VEGAS -- XM, the nation's leading provider of satellite radio with more than 8.5 million subscribers, today announced the additional expansion of XM Radio as a factory-installed, standard feature across the Hyundai lineup.

In the 2008 model year, Hyundai will continue its XM rollout with the addition of the Tiburon, Accent and Tucson vehicles. Additionally, XM will also be a factory-installed standard feature on the 2009 Elantra Touring, a concept revealed today at the 2007 SEMA Show.

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Fear the Deer: Two-week peak collision season starts now

ERIE, Pa. -- Each year, deer-vehicle crashes cause deaths, injuries and damages, and early November is the most dangerous time of all.

Based upon claims information collected and analyzed by Erie Insurance since 1999, about one in every 100 drivers is likely to have a collision with a deer -- and the first two weeks in November have more claims than any other two-week period during the year. In fact, in 2006 seven of the top 10 deer claims took place between November 3 and 14.

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Posted by Frank at 8:22 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Safety

Ford Announces Discount to Help Wildfire Victims and Thank California's Firefighters

IRVINE, Calif. -- Ford and Lincoln Mercury are announcing today that, for the month of November, they will extend their employee A-Plan pricing discount to California families whose vehicles were lost in the recent Southern California wildfires.

Further, as a way of saying "thank you" to firefighters across the state of California for their tireless efforts in containing the fires, all firefighters and their immediate households statewide will receive the same A- Plan pricing discount.

Discounts both for fire victims and for firefighters apply to any 2007 or 2008 Ford, Mercury or Lincoln car, truck, CUV or SUV (excluding the Mustang Shelby GT 500).

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Posted by Frank at 8:22 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Zipcar and Flexcar Agree to Merge

Combined company to enhance member experience, fuel car sharing growth

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. and WASHINGTON -- Zipcar and Flexcar, leading car sharing providers, announced today the companies will merge. Together these two companies will represent an international network able to deliver new member benefits and accelerated growth to the burgeoning car sharing industry.

The combined company will operate under the Zipcar brand and be headquartered in Cambridge, MA, under the leadership of Zipcar's chairman and chief executive, Scott Griffith.

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Posted by Frank at 8:22 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Motorcycle Riders Foundation Declares Support of 'Right to Repair' Legislation

Passage of "Right to Repair" Protects Vehicle Ownership Rights

BETHESDA, Md. -- The Motorcycle Riders Foundation has declared its support of the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (HR 2694) and strongly urges Congress to pass the legislation in order to safeguard individual vehicle ownership rights.

The legislative intent of the Right to Repair Act is to offer protections for motor vehicle owners by making it illegal for vehicle manufacturers to withhold information necessary to diagnose, service or repair motor vehicles.

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Posted by Frank at 8:21 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Finance

Scion Partners With RIDEMAKERZ to Build Customizable xBs for Kids

LAS VEGAS -- Scion today announced its partnership with RIDEMAKERZ, an innovative new toy car customization retailer inspired by Build-A-Bear Workshop.

The Scion RIDE, based on the new xB urban utility vehicle and the latest model in the RIDEMAKERZ lineup, was unveiled at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. The partnership and product will please tuners, kids and parents alike.

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Nokia Automotive Connects with Scion Optomize

LAS VEGAS -- Nokia announced today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show its new business relationship with Scion within the scope of Scion Optomize.

Scion Optomize is an aftermarket accessory program that brings cutting-edge products and convenience to Scion owners and allows customers to personalize their xA, xB, xD or tC by purchasing accessories through Scion dealerships.

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Toyota to Launch Models Factory-Equipped With XM Radio

XM Radio & XM NavTraffic to Be Available on New Corolla and Matrix Beginning Next Spring

WASHINGTON -- XM Satellite Radio, the nation's leading provider of satellite radio with more than 8.5 million subscribers, announced that the all-new 2009 Toyota Corolla and Matrix will be the first Toyota brand vehicles to offer XM Radio as a factory-equipped feature.

The popular models will also offer XM NavTraffic as an option with the available GPS navigation systems, the first Toyota brand vehicles to offer XM NavTraffic.

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Metro Detroit Kids Benefit by Salvation Army 'Coats For Kids' Radiothon

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- More metro Detroit kids will be warmed this year thanks to a big new push from Chrysler Jeep Superstores as "presenting sponsor" for the 25th annual Salvation Army "Coats For Kids" program that kicks off with a radiothon Nov. 2nd and 3rd. from the Phoenix Theatres in Detroit.

Top hip-hop artist Trey Songz leads a featured list of music industry recording artists at the weekend event being broadcast on WJLB FM 98, also an event sponsor along with the Phoenix Theatres.

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Consumers Digest Magazine Names 2008 Automotive Best Buys

DEERFIELD, Ill. -- Thirty-six vehicles and 13 companion models received Best Buy ratings from Consumers Digest out of some-240 total 2008 models. The ratings, published in CD's December issue (on sale November 1), span 10 categories: Small Cars, Family Cars, Luxury Cars, Sporty Cars, Trucks, Vans, Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs, Full-Size/Luxury SUVs and Hybrids.

The Best Buys -- based on behind-the-wheel testing, safety ratings, ownership costs, warranty, price, comfort, ergonomics, styling and amenities -- reflect CD's assessment of which 2008 vehicles offer the most value for the money.

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Posted by Frank at 7:51 AM | Filed under 2008 Vehicles | Auto Marketing | Auto News

Cooper Tire Partners with Champ Car to Promote Hands on the Wheel

Las Vegas City Council Declares October 30 'Hands on the Wheel Day'

LAS VEGAS -- COOPER TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY today announced that it will partner with Champ Car to promote the Hands on the Wheel program through its network of tire dealers across North America.

Cooper Tire Vice President of Sales and Marketing Phil Caris made the announcement at the 2007 SEMA Show, the biggest automotive specialty products trade event in the world.

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Posted by Frank at 5:23 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Safety

Automotive Hall of Fame Offers Half-Price Admission Through Year-End

DEARBORN, Mich. -- To culminate a year-long celebration marking its tenth anniversary in Dearborn, the Automotive Hall of Fame is offering half-price admission through the end of the year.

Beginning November 1, and continuing until December 31, 2007, full price admission will be just three dollars for every visitor. (Regular prices are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $3 for students. Children under the age of five continue to be admitted for free.)

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Posted by Frank at 4:23 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

October 31, 2007

Volkswagen driver Carlos Sainz advances to second place in the desert

Wolfsburg -- With a second place on the third stage of the UAE Desert Challenge Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (Spain/France) in the Volkswagen Race Touareg advanced to second position overall.

After leading the stage some of the time, Sainz had initially finished in third place but was later awarded a four-minute credit by race control due to a disadvantage he suffered at a time check. After the 277-kilometre leg halfway through the rally the Volkswagen factory drivers Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany) are in fifth place overall.

Continue reading"Volkswagen driver Carlos Sainz advances to second place in the desert"

Posted by Frank at 8:54 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volvo

Volvo C30 by Heico Sportiv Surfaces at SEMA

LAS VEGAS -- Windswept beaches, twisty island roads and outrageous North Shore waves have just landed in the middle of the Nevada desert.

Yet this is not a mirage. It's the groundswell of excitement generated by the debut of the breathtaking Volvo C30 by Heico Sportiv. One look at this modified special-version C30 is enough to spark island fever among those longing to leave civilization behind and embrace the Aloha spirit of adventure.

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Chrysler, 'House Of Payne' Team On Town & Country Minivan

CHRYSLER IS PROMOTING ITS NEW Town & Country minivan through an integrated promotional relationship with Tyler Perry's "House of Payne" this fall. The multi-video, TBS-branded campaign includes a "tune-in" shot with the show's cast posing with the Chrysler Town & Country minivan. The vehicle will also be in episodes broadcast over TBS's wireless platform.

Every Wednesday night, Chrysler and House of Payne will run on-air billboards and tune-ins, and Chrysler will also sponsor "House" content at TBS.com and on TBS video on demand.

Through November, Chrysler will have Chrysler product messaging during the show's time slot. Ad creative posits the minivan as a living room away from home, when "Pops" Payne escapes the house to use the Town & Country as a refuge, until his family ends up following him into the minivan to play games and watch TV on Sirius Backseat TV.

The 1- to-3-minute wireless episodes showing slices of life with the Paynes and featuring the Town & Country will be on TBS WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) at TBS.mobi. Custom Chrysler pre-roll will run prior to the start of each mobisode on TBS Mobi.

Posted by Frank at 8:39 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Chrysler

‘Prison Break’ star gets 40 months in prison for deadly crash

LOS ANGELES - Lane Garrison was sentenced to three years and four months in prison Wednesday for a drunken driving crash that killed a 17-year-old Beverly Hills High student last December.

“The public has the right to know that conduct such as this, causing devastation such as this” will have consequences, said Superior Court Judge Elden S. Fox.

“Unfortunately, in this case, you have to be the messenger,” he told the former “Prison Break” actor.

Posted by Frank at 8:38 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto News | Safety

Toyota Celebrates Golden Anniversary In United States

Torrance, CA -- Fifty years ago today, when tailfins defined the cutting edge of automotive styling and a handful of import auto companies struggled to sell 83,000 units, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. began marketing quality cars and trucks in the United States.

TMS opened for business in America on October 31, 1957, in Southern California, and started selling cars the following summer. By the end of 1958, it had sold just 287 Toyopet Crown sedans and one Land Cruiser – a far cry from 2006 sales of more than 2.5 million cars and trucks.

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Mopar Will Blaze a Brand New 'Trail' at the 2007 SEMA Show

CENTER LINE, Mich. -- Mopar, Chrysler LLC's original equipment parts manufacturer, embarks on a new frontier with its new 'Trail' product segment initiative.

Mopar will offer authentic performance parts to Jeep(R) and Dodge enthusiasts who want to go anywhere and do anything. For years, Mopar set the standard in the 'Muscle,' 'Street' and 'Speed' scenes. The next logical step was to add 'Trail' to the Mopar portfolio and go off-road.

Continue reading"Mopar Will Blaze a Brand New 'Trail' at the 2007 SEMA Show"

Toyota Unveils 2009 Corolla

Las Vegas -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new 10th generation Corolla sedan at a press conference today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.

"Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, the 2009 Corolla will continue to offer the quality and value for which the brand has long been known," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "In style and substance, the tenth-generation Corolla will have a strong, new identity, all its own. It will be far more than merely the next-generation Corolla and will position itself perfectly above our entry-level Yaris and below our sales leader, the Camry."

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Posted by Frank at 8:22 PM | Filed under 2009 Vehicles | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Toyota

Shelby Autos Unveils Terlingua Racing Team Program

LAS VEGAS -- n April of this year, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc., (Pink Sheets:CSBI) and legendary Terlingua Team member # 2 Bill Neale returned the Terlingua Racing Team to the spotlight.

Today the Terlingua team announced a series of vehicles and products for the grassroots racing community that live up to the Terlingua Racing legend. Ranging from a high performance package for Ford Mustangs to special edition Shelby Cobra, the program was introduced during a press conference at the 2007 SEMA show.

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Posted by Frank at 8:18 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

Porsche Introduces ''Web-Cinema''

Application Plugs in Viewers to Movies, Music, Rare Racing Footage—Even Famous Engine Roar!

ATLANTA -- Porsche today announced it has launched a new “Web Cinema” on its Web site that offers Porsche sports-car fans and admirers the ability to view extraordinary Porsche films.

This new Web technology gives browsers a “virtual” front-row seat to experience much of what embodies Porsche’s legendary sports car driving. The site features rare product development documentaries, inside-the-factory research and even brings the auditory passion of Porsche to life with sounds of the famous engines from the German car maker.

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Chevrolet Named As Official Car and Truck of Camping World

Historic Alliance to Include $500 Certificates toward any General Motors Vehicles for RV Customers

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. -- Camping World, America’s largest retailer of RV supply and outdoor accessories and recreational vehicle sales, today announced a promotional partnership with Chevrolet making it the Official Car and Truck of the fast growing retailer.

The partnership will provide for multiple promotional platforms and opportunities for the companies.

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50 Cent’s New Ride

LAS VEGAS -- JBL, a brand of HCG has outfitted rapper 50 Cent's (a.k.a. Curtis Jackson) new Pontiac G8 performance sedan with an 800-watt JBL audio system, JBL PX600.2 two-channel amps and two 12 inch JBL P1222 subwoofers. Installed by Unique Autosports, (of the television show "Unique Whips") the car will debut at the 2007 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

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LED Illumination in the Chrysler Town & Country Black Jack at 2007 SEMA

NORTHVILLE, Mich. -- OSRAM Opto Semiconductors, Inc. and Chrysler's Mopar(R) Underground SEMA design team have collaborated on an exciting new vehicle sure to win big with high rollers.

The vehicle, dubbed the Chrysler Town & Country Black Jack, showcases OSRAM LED (Light Emitting Diode) systems and technology along with other breakthrough innovations that bring all of the excitement of a high-stakes blackjack game inside a 2008 Town & Country. The Black Jack will debut at the 2007 SEMA Show in the Mopar booth (#42427).

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Cadillac SLS Joins Portfolio in Middle East

Middle East sales of SLS luxury sedan to begin in the first quarter of 2008; SLS is assembled at Shanghai GM's assembly plant

DETROIT– Cadillac announced that the SLS, the stretched version of the STS luxury sedan, will become available in the Middle East in the first quarter of 2008.

The SLS is based on the STS sedan with additional design and engineering work, as well as manufacturing, taking place at Shanghai GM’s state-of-the art facilities in Shanghai, China.

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Posted by Frank at 5:46 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Cadillac | GM

OSRAM Helps Dodge Light Up Las Vegas With Cool Dodge Caravan R/T

LAS VEGAS -- OSRAM SYLVANIA is assisting Chrysler's Mopar Underground SEMA design team demonstrate the customization possibilities of the modern minivan by equipping a Dodge Caravan with the latest advances in automotive lighting.

The highly-modified Dodge Caravan R/T is among the many anticipated vehicles to be unveiled at the SEMA Show schedule for Oct. 30 - Nov. 2.

This vehicle represents one of two Chrysler-based vehicle projects that OSRAM is assisting with in Las Vegas. The other vehicle has been dubbed The Chrysler Town & Country Black Jack because of its gaming-style interior.

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Sony Shows In-Car Connectivity at SEMA

LAS VEGAS -- (SEMA Booth #11170) Sony's mobile electronics showroom at the Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) annual trade show is featuring new Xplod products that bring to life major mobile electronics connectivity trends.

These trends include made-for-iPod head units that charge the device and provide full menu control. Attendees can also see how to make hands-free phone call capabilities and stream music wirelessly with Bluetooth-enabled head units. They can hear higher-quality sounding HD Radio broadcasts and 5.1-Channel surround sound for the car.

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OSRAM SYLVANIA Unveils New, Customer-Friendly Packaging for Aftermarket Division

LAS VEGAS -- OSRAM SYLVANIA, the world leader in automotive lighting solutions, is using the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) (Booth 2421) to debut a new product packaging redesign which strengthens the SYLVANIA brand, particularly in the competitive aftermarket sector.

The redesign represents the first major graphics change in nearly a decade for the venerable automotive supplier. According to company officials, there were a number of variables that factored into a new packaging appearance for hundreds of SYLVANIA's products.

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Posted by Frank at 5:37 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Car accessories

Buick Enclave Is A Hit, So GM Cuts Production

The tight supply of Buick Enclaves--a so-called crossover utility vehicle that has become a breakout hit for General Motors this year--is no accident. GM is keeping a tight rein on production in an effort to avoid past mistakes that forced it to offer discounts and cheapened the image of the company's brands.

In the past, when GM had hot models, it usually built as many as it could, and almost always ended up with lots filled with unsold vehicles. "Nothing destroys the value of a new product faster than over producing," says GM Vice Chairman Robert Lutz.

For example, the Chevy HHR, a retro-styled wagon launched in 2005, sold briskly at first, often at full sticker price. But 15 months after the HHR was introduced, Chevy dealers had enough in stock to last almost five months. Since then, GM has had to continue discounting and dump thousands of HHRs into rental fleets, which eroded the margin on the car, and badly watered down its cachet.

Volkswagen driver Carlos Sainz defends third place in the desert

Wolfsburg -- With a third place on the third stage of the UAE Desert Challenge Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (Spain/France) in the Volkswagen Race Touareg solidified their third position overall.

On the 277-kilometre dune loop Sainz/Périn were at times running in front, but towards the end lost four minutes after suffering the mishap of getting stuck in the sand. The Volkswagen factory drivers Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany) are in fifth place overall, halfway through the rally.

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Posted by Frank at 4:52 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volkswagen

PEAK Launches Motor Oil Brand with IndyCar Series

LAS VEGAS -- Powerhouse automotive brand PEAK is expanding beyond antifreeze into a new line of premium quality motor oils, and will feature the IndyCar Series, Indianapolis 500 and Danica Patrick in rolling out its latest products as part of a multi-year official partner agreement signed with the IndyCar Series.

Representatives from Old World Industries’ PEAK brand, the IndyCar Series, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway today announced PEAK Performance Motor Oil as the Official Motor Oil of the IndyCar Series and the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race. The partnership will be in place for the 16-race 2008 IndyCar Series schedule, which includes the 92nd Indianapolis 500 on May 25, 2008.

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Posted by Frank at 3:59 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

WABCO Officially Opens First Fully-Owned Chinese Manufacturing Facility

QINGDAO, China -- WABCO Holdings Inc., one of the world's leading providers of electronic braking, stability, suspension and transmission control systems for heavy duty commercial vehicles, today officially opened its first fully-owned manufacturing facility in China.

The company's $35 million investment in Qingdao demonstrates WABCO's continued commitment to serving the country's commercial vehicle industry, and the importance of China as an export platform for the entire Asia Pacific region, North America and Europe.

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Posted by Frank at 3:54 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

Autobahn cruisers hit a speed bump

A proposed speed limit for Germany's super highway – the autobahn – was put on the political agenda at the Hamburg party Congress. Once the news hit the front pages of papers across Europe, it immediately triggered questions from many of my American colleagues.

Apparently many had been day-dreaming about a high-speed journey in a powerful Porsche, whizzing past Cinderella-like castles, racing toward an ice-cold beer at one of Munich's famous beer halls – and they were afraid those dreams might be prematurely dashed.

Germany is not the biggest race track in the world – speed limits have been in place for quite a while! Most stretches of the 7,600-mile highway network are marked with speed limits of 65 to 80 miles per hour. The regulations are often enforced by mobile radar traps – all too often leading to the painful fines arriving in mailboxes across the country.

And the very few roads in Germany that still allow you to press the gas pedal all the way through the floor are either congested with heavy traffic or supplemented by very narrow construction sites.

In the past car lovers from Great Britain have organized illegal races with ultra-powerful sports cars across central Europe. Guess where they were stopped by the police this year? Yes, in Germany!

Posted by Frank at 1:50 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto News

Hyundai to Unveil Concept Genesis Coupe

LAS VEGAS – Concept Genesis Coupe (shown here as an exaggerated sketch) will make its world debut at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show on Wed., November 14.

Concept Genesis Coupe hints at design direction for a future rear-wheel drive sports coupe from Hyundai.

Posted by Frank at 7:52 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Hyundai

GM Investing $73 Million in Shreveport for HUMMER H3T Production

SHREVEPORT, La. – General Motors today confirmed that it will invest approximately $73 million into its Shreveport, La. truck assembly plant to prepare the plant for production of the all-new HUMMER H3T.

“GM’s $73-million investment in Shreveport is further proof that the community remains an important part of GM’s manufacturing plan,” said Troy Clarke, GM Group Vice President and GM North America President.

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Reeves HUMMER To Present New Disaster Response Vehicle To Red Cross

Reeves HUMMER, HUMMER, and the GM Foundation will present a new 2008 HUMMER H3 to the Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross to strengthen their emergency preparation and disaster response capability.

This vehicle is part of a committed 72 vehicle fleet that will include a combination of H1, H2 and H3 models to be donated to Red Cross Chapters nationwide over a six-year period.

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Florida Chevrolet Dealers Donate Nearly $150,000 to Local Youth Baseball

TAMPA – Twenty-five Chevrolet dealers from the Tampa area partnered with local youth baseball parks/leagues through the Chevy Youth Baseball Program and helped generate nearly $150,000 in donations from the dealerships and private parties.

The program consisted of several components including equipment and vehicle donations, as well as a partnership with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays during the 2007 baseball season that presented unique game experiences for the youth players.

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Subaru to Highlight 2008 Impreza Models at SEMA

- Subaru booth to display all-new Impreza and Impreza WRX models -

LAS VEGAS -- Subaru of America will showcase the all-new Impreza and Impreza WRX models during the SEMA show, with a collection of tuned 4 and 5-door 2008 models, including a Halloween themed Impreza WRX and the original Subaru performance icon, the 1998 Impreza 22B.

Show display cars include:

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Heico Unleashes Beastly S80 T6 HPC at 2007 SEMA

LAS VEGAS -- The lights of Las Vegas reflect flawlessly in the gleaming aluminum paint of the Heico Sportiv S80 T6 High Performance Concept (HPC).

Being shown for the first time in North America at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association tradeshow in Las Vegas, NV, the S80 T6 HPC is a literal reflection of power, sophistication and athleticism as can be seen in its unique 7-layer "aluminum effect" body paint. But the S80 T6 HPC is more than just a pretty face. It's a true example that a powerful luxury sedan can also be sensitive to the environment.

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Posted by Frank at 6:57 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Volvo

Auto Companies Invited to Design Hot Wheels Originals

New Program Marks First Time Mattel Has Invited Outside Designers to Bring Their Automotive Fantasies to Life with an Original Hot Wheels Car

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Hot Wheels announced today its first-ever Designer’s Challenge, inviting designers from leading automotive manufacturers the chance to design and create an original Hot Wheels vehicle.

The Designer’s Challenge was created as a way for Hot Wheels to honor its automotive partners and have them actively participate in the die-cast brand’s 40th anniversary celebration in 2008. The selected designs will be the basis of a new 40th anniversary Designer’s Challenge product line, which will hit store shelves in spring 2008.

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Posted by Frank at 6:52 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News

Nissan Invites Film and Design Students To Think 'Outside Of The Cube'

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Nissan North America (NNA) today announced a unique partnership with two film and design schools to showcase the Nissan Cube, a product sold in Japan, in the American market in a very distinctive way. The collaboration will task students to create provocative films and designs by integrating the Cube's inspirational and stylish design.

The Brooks Institute film school in Santa Barbara, CA and Pratt Institute, School of Art and Design in New York City will participate in the Cube project, "Cube-ism: Automobile Meets Art."

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Posted by Frank at 6:46 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Nissan

Volkswagen TDI Power in new racing series in the USA

Wolfsburg -- With the launch of an innovative racing series in 2008, Volkswagen will start writing a new chapter in American motorsport: The Jetta TDI Cup will be the first one-make cup in the USA to feature diesel technology.

In the planned eight races of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Pro Racing Inc. the Jetta TDI Cup will demonstrate the typical qualities of the TDI engine from Wolfsburg, namely progressive technology, power and performance as well as pure driving pleasure.

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Posted by Frank at 6:41 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

Cool Coughlin Handling Countdown Heat With Ease

POMONA, Calif. -- Three-time world champion Jeg Coughlin Jr. opened the two-race Countdown to 1 by facing the other three men still eligible to win the 2007 POWERade title.

No other racer in any professional category had such a daunting task, but the ultra-cool Coughlin handled it with an ease that has to rattle his opponents heading into this weekend's 43rd annual Auto Club of Southern California NHRA Finals.

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Posted by Frank at 6:39 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News

Nissan Shows Off Performance Vehicles at 2007 SEMA Show

- Altima Coupe, 350Z, Sentra, Titan and Xterra All Featured, Displaying Performance Versatility from Nissan -

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Nissan's ninth year at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas marks a celebration of Nissan performance vehicles, all leaders in their respective industry segments.

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Posted by Frank at 6:32 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Nissan

Continental "Smart Car" Technologies Put to Test at DARPA Urban Challenge

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Continental Automotive Systems is a key sponsor of the Carnegie Mellon University Tartan Racing team. The global supplier is providing an array of active safety sensors for the school's robotic vehicle entry and an embedded engineer with expertise in "sensor data fusion" that enables "Boss" to recognize the total traffic environment.

Similar sensor technology from Continental can be found on a growing number of current production models. Continental also is supplying Tartan Racing with custom-made General brand Grabber UHP tires with ContiSeal technology that protects against penetration by nails and screws.

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Posted by Frank at 6:28 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

New Toyota Sequoia to Debut at 2007 L.A. Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. will stage the world premiere of the all-new 2008 Sequoia full-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) and also make a major announcement regarding Toyota's fuel cell development program at a press conference at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The completely redesigned 2008 Sequoia will be more spacious with a higher level of passenger comfort. It also will be substantially more powerful and yet, significantly more fuel efficient.

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Posted by Frank at 6:23 AM | Filed under 2008 Vehicles | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Toyota

New York Auto Retailers to Recruit More Women

NEW YORK -- To break down stereotype and encourage women entering, or re-entering, the workforce to look at careers in the retail automotive industry, the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA) has planned an automotive career networking event for women.

The free program, which includes a panel discussion by women who have excelled in the industry and workshops that focus on safety and car care, will take place at the Center for Automotive Education & Training, at 15-30 Petracca Place, Whitestone, Queens, on Saturday, November 3rd from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Posted by Frank at 6:23 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News

Chrysler Celebrates Dedication of New Chrysler Arizona Proving Ground in Yucca, Ariz.

Local officials join the celebration with ribbon-cutting ceremony

Chrysler LLC will celebrate the dedication of the new Chrysler Arizona Proving Ground with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the facility. The Company will announce investment plans in the facility, which was purchased earlier this month.

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IntelliStick Awarded 'Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice' at SEMA '07

LAS VEGAS -- IntelliStick has been awarded "Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice" by a panel of judges at the prestigious SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. IntelliStick is a patented dipstick replacement sensor technology which monitors and reports the actual condition of automotive engine oil in real time.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is an international trade association which consists of a diverse group of automotive manufacturers and aftermarket companies with more than 7,000 corporate members worldwide.

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Posted by Frank at 6:12 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Car accessories

Michelin's 'Green' Meters Paint The Sky With Global Fuel Efficiency Story

NEW YORK, Oct. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Beginning today, Michelin will project meters in four major cities around the world -- Berlin, New York City, Paris and Shanghai.

These meters will show the fuel savings and reductions in CO2 emissions since 1992-when this revolutionary technology was first introduced- thanks to Michelin green energy saving tires.

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Posted by Frank at 6:12 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Environment

2008 Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview Tickets On Sale

DETROIT -- Tickets for the 2008 North American International Auto Show's (NAIAS) black-tie Charity Preview gala are on sale now.

The NAIAS 2008 Charity Preview will take place Friday, Jan. 18, at Cobo Center in Detroit from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets for the event are $400 each, of which $390 is directly tax-deductible. For more information on the NAIAS 2008 Charity Preview or to purchase tickets, visit www.naias.com or call (888) 838-7500.

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Posted by Frank at 6:12 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Chinese Museum honors General Motors Executive at 2007 Legacy Awards

NEW YORK – General Motors’ Ray G. Young, the newly appointed Group Vice President of GM Global Finance, received the Museum of Chinese in the Americas’ (MoCA) prestigious Legacy Award this evening for his professional accomplishments and contributions to the Asian American communities.

“I am incredibly grateful and appreciative toward MoCA for this award,” said Young. “It is a great honor to be recognized by an organization that has done so much for the Chinese American community.”

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Posted by Frank at 5:31 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | GM

Atlanta Chevy Dealers Donate Nearly $150,000 to Local Youth Baseball

ATLANTA – Close to 50 Chevrolet dealers from the Metro-Atlanta area partnered with local youth baseball parks/leagues through the Chevy Youth Baseball Program and helped generate nearly $150,000 in donations from the dealerships and private parties.

The program consisted of several components including equipment and vehicle donations, as well as a partnership with the Atlanta Braves during the 2007 baseball season that presented unique game experiences for the youth players.

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Getting to Airport on Time is 'Biggest Cause of Travel Stress'

LONDON -- Leaving on time and getting to the airport for a flight is the most likely cause of an argument between partners when travelling, according to findings from a new survey released today by National Express Dot2Dot, the UK's first large-scale airport shuttle launching tomorrow (1 November).

One in five travellers said that they actually dreaded getting from an airport into the centre of town or city more than the actual flight itself. Getting to the airport on time was more stressful than remembering tickets and passports or even locking up the house securely.

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Posted by Frank at 5:25 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News

October 30, 2007

Volvo Unleashes Volley of New Concepts at 2007 SEMA

Las Vegas, NV -- Five years, five cars. As a commemoration to Volvo's fifth straight year at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) tradeshow, the Swedish manufacturer will show five highly modified versions of its vehicles. Ranging from the all-new XC70 to a high-performance version of the S80 T6, an eye-popping C30 to a C70 convertible, and a one-off fully custom hot rod, this year marks Volvo Cars most ambitious SEMA effort ever.

Four of the concepts are based on production versions of the Volvo XC70, the S80 T6, the C70 Convertible and the C30, while the fifth car is a built-from-the-ground-up, totally custom hot rod using major Volvo components from the previous-generation S80.

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Posted by Frank at 9:17 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volvo

Volkswagen advances to third in UAE Desert Challenge

Wolfsburg -- With a perfect drive at very high outside temperatures, Volkswagen factory drivers Carlos Sainz and Michel Périn (Spain/France) on the second stage of the UAE Desert Challenge, the season finale of the FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup with start and finish in Dubai, clinched second place, thus advancing from fifth to third place overall.

Their teammates Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany) in the second Race Touareg got stuck in the soft and, after two of the rally’s total of five stages, are now ranking fifth overall. On Wednesday, a 277-kilometre loop through the mountainous dunes located a three hours’ drive south of Abu Dhabi is awaiting the contenders.

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Posted by Frank at 9:00 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volkswagen

Scion and Daptone Records Partner Launch ''Scion CD Sampler Vol. 19''

IRVINE, Calif. -- Scion has partnered with Daptone Records to launch Scion CD Sampler Vol. 19 – Daptone Records Remixed (or “Scion CD 19”), a double CD-set compilation including nine exclusive remixes of various artists, along with the nine original recordings.

Scion has enlisted the help of today’s hottest DJs and remixers to produce the unique sounds on Scion CD 19 including Mark Ronson, Kenny Dope, Mad Professor, Afrodisiac Soundsystem, Ticklah, Hank Shocklee, DJ Spinna and Bull Jun (remix features vocals by Large Professor).

Listeners can expect to hear exclusive remixes of original Daptone artists such as The Budos Band, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, The Daktaris and The Sugarman Three & Co.

Continue reading"Scion and Daptone Records Partner Launch ''Scion CD Sampler Vol. 19''"

Alcoa to Supply Forged Aluminum Wheels to Shelby Automobiles

LAS VEGAS -- Alcoa announced today that it will supply custom-designed forged aluminum wheels featuring the company’s patented Dura-Bright® technology surface treatment to Shelby Automobiles for the company’s 2008 Mustang King of the Road (KR) and Super Snake models. The wheels will be supplied from the company’s Cleveland (Ohio) Works.

“Alcoa Forged Wheels is a vital member of Team Shelby,” noted Gary Patterson, VP-Operations for Shelby Automobiles. “Both the KR and the Super Snake have really cool looking wheels. If they didn’t, they wouldn’t be Shelby.”

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Survey Finds 8 in 10 Americans Plan to Drive for Next Family Vacation

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Nearly eight in 10 Americans (77%) plan to drive for their next family vacation -- according to a Dodge brand national survey. Dodge commissioned the survey to provide insight into how Americans deal with family road trips and to help prepare families for upcoming holiday travel.

The survey revealed comfort, convenience and fun are important to families when they hit the road together so Susan Foster, recognized travel expert and author, teamed with Dodge to offer these simple tips families can follow to avoid potential road trip disasters and focus on quality family time when traveling this holiday season:

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Posted by Frank at 8:50 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Safety

Helmut Bröker is the new Managing Director of Porsche China

Stuttgart/Shanghai -- Along with the move to the new distribution center on the illustrious Nanjing Road in Shanghai, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is now also making changes at the head of one of its most important growth markets.

Helmut Bröker, 50, is replacing Mark Bishop, 53, as Managing Director of Porsche China.

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Posted by Frank at 8:45 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Porsche

Thule to Introduce New Karrite Products to 2008 Professional Line at 2007 SEMA

LAS VEGAS and SEYMOUR, Conn. -- Thule, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of premium load carriers for all vehicles, will debut its Karrite Full Frame Truck Rack System as part of its 2008 Professional line of contractor-grade rack systems and accessories at the 2007 SEMA Show (Booth no. 33209) being held at The Las Vegas Convention Center, October 30 through November 2.

"Our new Karrite rack system is perfect for contractors looking for the ultimate combination of strength, style, and value in one truck rack system," said Kevin Harris, director of the Thule Professional line. "The Karrite system has all the right features with industry-leading ease of assembly and style that are sure to make it the new benchmark in steel pickup truck racks," added Harris.

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Posted by Frank at 8:43 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car accessories

Thule to Debut 2008 Professional Line Products at 2007 SEMA

LAS VEGAS and SEYMOUR, Conn. -- Thule, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of premium load carriers for all vehicles, will showcase its new Professional line of contractor-grade rack systems and accessories at the 2007 SEMA Show (Booth no. 33209), being held at The Las Vegas Convention Center, October 30 through November 2.

"Expanding into the truck rack market was a natural fit for Thule," said Tripp Wyckoff, vice president of marketing, sales, and service for Thule, Inc. "Since we introduced the Professional line last November, initial response from dealers and professional contractors alike, has been very positive and we're confident that they will be equally pleased with our new products," added Wyckoff.

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Posted by Frank at 8:43 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car accessories

Nardelli: Chrysler Ad Spending Unlikely to Increase

BOCA RATON, Fla. -- Robert L. Nardelli, Chrysler's chairman-CEO of about 100 days, all but told an audience of magazine professionals today to give up on increased ad spending from his company.

The bad news came when Dennis Kneale, the Forbes veteran who recently jumped to CNBC, asked Mr. Nardelli in jest -- and in playing to the crowd -- whether he planned to double or triple his magazine advertising. The audience, assembled for their luncheon talk during the American Magazine Conference, howled with happy laughter.

But Mr. Nardelli gingerly suggested that everyone already knows better, holding his hands up about 6 inches apart to represent spending ... then narrowing the gap. Mr. Kneale, taking the cue, translated: "Less is more."

That was as close as their talk got to the subject of media spending, but Mr. Nardelli did reveal a keen interest in the way Chrysler markets itself via customer interactions.

VW Generates Fan Buzzz at Bee Movie Opener

WESTWOOD, Calif. --- On Sunday, October 28, 2007, a swarm of cast members and filmmakers arrived at the Los Angeles premiere of “Bee Movie” in Volkswagen “Bee-tles.” Volkswagen of America, Inc. created ten special New Beetle Convertibles for the premiere.

Each VW Beetle was wrapped in black and yellow stripes with antennas to resemble bumble bees, and created buzz as each star arrived in style.

A-list talent including Jerry Seinfeld and Jessica Seinfeld, Renée Zellweger, Patrick Warburton, Ray Liotta, Rip Torn, producer Christina Steinberg, writer Spike Feresten and directors Steve Hickner and Simon J. Smith each arrived at the yellow carpet in a VW Beetle and were dressed in yellow and black clothing to match.

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Posted by Frank at 12:33 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volkswagen

Patrik's Volvo V70 saved the entire family

Every driver's nightmare occurred on the way home from viewing a house. The oncoming car on the straight highway strayed onto the wrong side and Patrik Englund had no chance of swerving.

The collision was violent but Patrik and his family escaped without serious injury. "Our Volvo V70 kept its promise. I drive the same car model today," says Patrik.

The accident occurred at about 3 in the afternoon on Sunday, 4 March 2007.

Patrik Englund, his partner Emilie and two-month old son Lucas were driving along the highway near Hyssna, some way inland east of Gothenburg, on the way home from viewing a house.

Continue reading"Patrik's Volvo V70 saved the entire family"

Dodge Avenger Tuner Stormtrooper

The Dodge Avenger Tuner – Stormtrooper is a sophisticated sedan designed to appeal to an adult tuner with an appreciation for technical superiority, exhilarating performance and unbridled luxury and style.

The technical, yet organic nature of the Stormtrooper costumes from Star Wars inspired its execution. The Avenger Stormtrooper represents the holistic fusion of technology, racing, comfort and performance.

Smooth power is unleashed by the digitally-tuned 4.0-liter V-6 engine – that packs the punch of a velvet hammer. It features an all-wheel-drive powertrain and six-speed automatic gearbox with AutoStick steering wheel paddle shifters and KW custom coil-over suspension that is tuned for ride-height and damping.

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Volvo develops innovative new safety systems

Volvo Car Corporation is a leading car manufacturer when it comes to both preventive and protective safety. The company has a long history of developing advanced safety technologies, and now focuses on a new generation of groundbreaking protective safety systems. These are intended to enhance safety for people both inside and outside the vehicle, as well as allowing more relaxed and enjoyable driving.

Volvo Car Corporation has a long tradition of pro-active safety thinking. About 80 years ago, founders Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson proclaimed that 'Cars are driven by people.

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'Big Daddy' Don Garlits Will Display a Mopar Wynn's Charger Dragster at SEMA

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- To commemorate his long association with Chrysler, Mopar and Wynn's, 'Big Daddy' Don Garlits supercharged a 392 HEMI crate engine from Mopar with a vintage 6-71 blower to power his historic Swamp Rat XII dragster.

Dubbed the Mopar Wynn's Charger Dragster, Garlits' new adaptation will debut in the Mopar booth (#42427) at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas on Oct. 30-Nov. 2. The SEMA Show is the annual showcase of technology, trends and products representing the $36.7 billion automotive parts and accessories industry that will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

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Porsche Crash Case Settled with Internet Guru's Family

SAN DIEGO -- The wife and parents of a La Jolla, California internationally renowned Internet marketing guru settled their lawsuit against Porsche and the racetrack where Corey Rudl was killed when riding as a passenger of Ben Keaton in a Porsche Carrera GT, a $440,000 exotic "racecar for the streets."

Mr. Keaton was also killed when the Porsche left the track at the California Speedway on June 2, 2005, crashing into a concrete barrier at a speed estimated to be nearly 100 mph. Rudl and Keaton were participants in a Ferrari Club event being held at the track.

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Posted by Frank at 12:19 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Consumer Groups Endorse 'Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act'

ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- "Thanks to America's five major consumer organizations, which have dedicated their work to keeping consumers safer, competition alive and the environment clean, 'The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act' will have an additional boost for passage," stated David Parde, president, The Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE).

The letter of the consumer groups' endorsement, jointly signed by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety; Center for Auto Safety; Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety; Consumer Federation of America; and Public Citizen, have endorsed HR 2694, The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, by stating that, "the ability to quickly and easily repair computerized vehicle systems is crucial for the safe operation of a vehicle.

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Posted by Frank at 12:16 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

Chrysler Names New Business Development Executive

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC today named L. John Cataldo to Vice President - Business Development and Mergers & Acquisitions. In this newly created position, Cataldo will be responsible for leading all major business development activities globally, including alliances, partnerships, joint ventures and key multi-region, product-related programs.

Cataldo joins Chrysler after 13 years with General Electric Company as a GE Energy Business General Manager - Strategy, Marketing and Commercial Operations and formerly, Leader - Business Development, GE Energy Services and Manager - GE Corporate Business Development.

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Visteon Recognized for Lighting Technology

VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP, Mich. -- Visteon Corporation is honored to be the recipient of a 2008 Automotive News PACE Honorable Mention. This prestigious recognition was awarded for Visteon's innovative light pipe technology, which debuted this summer on the 2008 Cadillac CTS.

The light pipe innovation is part of both the highly stylized head lamp and tail lamp units on the CTS. The light pipes are single, high-power LED emitters that have a tubular appearance. This unique light glows vertically along the edges of the CTS tail and head lights -- clearly distinguishing the vehicle's edges, thereby allowing drivers adjacent to the vehicle to more easily recognize its edges.

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Posted by Frank at 12:07 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

Dollar Thrifty Hires Rick Morris as Chief Information Officer

TULSA, Okla. -- Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE:DTG) announced today that Rick Morris has joined the company as Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer.

He will be responsible for providing the vision and leadership for developing and implementing information technology initiatives that improve cost-effectiveness, service quality and business development in a constantly changing, competitive marketplace. He will lead Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group in planning and implementing enterprise information systems to support operations and achieve more cost-beneficial enterprise-wide IT operations.

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Posted by Frank at 12:06 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

October 29, 2007

Rolls-Royce Appoints U.S. Communication Mgr

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today announced that Karen Vonder Meulen will join the company as the new Corporate Communications Manager for North America. She will assume her position at Rolls-Royce in January 2008, replacing Bob Austin, who will retire from the company at the end of 2007.

Vonder Meulen brings more than 15 years of communications and media experience to Rolls-Royce. She joined BMW North America in 1998, where she is presently the Marketing, Events, Sports and Cultural Communications Manager.

In this role she has been responsible for media relations and communications strategy for a wide range of projects and initiatives, including the development of the company’s arts and culture program.

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Posted by Frank at 3:55 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce confirms plant expansion

ROLLS-ROYCE CONFIRMS EXPANSION PLANS FOR GOODWOOD

The purpose-built, flexible nature of the manufacturing plant will allow expansion to take place within the existing footprint of the building.

The most visible change will be the addition of a second assembly line in 2008. The two lines will run simultaneously, one producing the existing Phantom models and the other building the new model series. A second working shift will be introduced in 2009.

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Ford Mondeo Tops for Scots

FAIRMONT ST ANDREWS, FIFE -- Ford’s new Mondeo has been crowned Scottish Car of the Year 2007.

This latest accolade for Ford’s critically acclaimed newcomer was presented by the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers (ASMW) with the Ford Mondeo also winning the Family Car category.

Ford’s Mondeo was named Scotland’s top car at the 10th annual SCOTY event with the judging panel – motoring correspondents from an array of national and regional newspaper, magazines, radio stations and websites – awarding the Mondeo a win by the biggest margin since the Ford Focus scooped the inaugural Scottish Car of the Year title in 1998.

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Posted by Frank at 3:26 PM | Filed under 2008 Vehicles | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

BP-Ford World Rally Team Win Rally Japan

BP-Ford World Rally Team drivers Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen today won Rally Japan to claim their second victory of the season and the team's seventh success.

The Finns ended a dramatic three-day encounter with a 37.4sec advantage in their Ford Focus RS World Rally Car. The result secured at least third place for Hirvonen in the FIA World Rally Championship drivers' standings with two of the 16 rounds remaining.

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Posted by Frank at 3:26 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

Grammy Nominee's Restored Plymouth Duster at SEMA

Center Line, Mich. – Mopar, Chrysler LLC’s original equipment manufacturer, learned that renowned blues and rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd is passionate about two things: cars and guitars.

The two-time Grammy nominee who has sold millions of albums worldwide will show his restored 1970 Plymouth Duster in the Mopar booth (#42427) at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show.

The annual showcase of technology, trends and products representing the $36.7 billion automotive parts and accessories industry, the SEMA show will be held Oct. 30 – Nov. 2, 2007 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

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Range Rover Sport to Retain Highest Residual Value for Two Years Running

IRVINE, Calif. -- Land Rover North America is proud to announce that the 2008 Range Rover Sport has received the Automotive Lease Guide (ALG) Residual Value Award in the Luxury CUV segment. The annual Residual Value Awards identify those vehicles predicted to retain the highest percentage of their original purchase price after a conventional three-year lease term.

"We understand the importance of residual values in our highly competitive business and are delighted by this recognition," said Chris Marchand, executive vice president of Marketing and Sales, Land Rover North America.

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Posted by Frank at 1:38 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance | Land Rover

Parrot Launches Four New Hands-Free Car Kits

LAS VEGAS -- Parrot, the market leader in hands-free Bluetooth(R) car kits, is upping the ante in the mobile electronics market with the introduction of four hot new products this week at the Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) annual show -- including a new high- performance car stereo with an integrated Bluetooth car kit, two new music kits with audio streaming, and a hands-free cell phone solution for motorcyclists.

In addition, Parrot is supporting its retailer and installer partners with the launch of a line of plug-and-play wiring harnesses to speed installation, and a steering wheel harness solution that allows existing OEM steering wheel controls to be used to operate car kits on many vehicles.

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See the SEMA show on SEMAInsider.com

LAS VEGAS -- Now you can experience daily coverage of the world’s largest and most famous “car guy” parts and accessories trade show on your computer.

For the second year, Toyota and SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) have partnered with Car Crazy Central to bring the show experience into your home and office via www.semainsider.com.

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Xanavi System in the Infiniti G35 Ranks Highest in Customer Satisfaction

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- The Xanavi system in the Infiniti G35 ranks highest in new-vehicle owner satisfaction with factory-installed navigation systems, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study(SM) released today.

Now in its ninth year, the study identifies six factors that contribute to overall customer satisfaction. In order of importance, they are: ease of use, routing, system appearance, speed of system, voice directions and navigation display screen.

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Thrifty Launches Hourly Rentals at Manhattan Locations

NEW YORK -- Thrifty Car Rental, a subsidiary of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., raises a torch in the name of freedom with the launch of hourly rentals at its two Manhattan stores. Lady Liberty is dancing in the streets with the announcement that New Yorkers have been freed from the oppression of congested public transit and rigid schedules.

Effective immediately, Thrifty Car Rental customers may experience the freedom of hourly rentals at its 148 W. 83rd Street and 234 E. 85th Street locations. Hourly rentals are available Sunday (2 p.m.) through Thursday (10 p.m.) at a special rate of $19 for every two hours, or $60 maximum per day. Customers have their choice of an economy, compact, mid-size or full-size vehicle, all at the same low rate.

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Posted by Frank at 1:29 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Entrepreneur Raises $200 Million For Electric Car Venture

Former SAP executive Shai Agassi has raised $200 million to fund a company named Better Place that he hopes will jump-start mass adoption of electric vehicles. Agassi's company plans to operate much like a mobile-phone service provider by selling or leasing electric cars to consumers in packages that include monthly service fees. It will also operate networks of charging locations and service stations that replace batteries for people who are on the road.

Networking software developed by Agassi's programmers will coordinate the whole system, which is called a "smart grid." The plan is to set up service stations that will pull out and replace spent lithium-ion phosphate batteries in about the time required to fill a car's tank with gasoline. The company's wireless network will tell drivers where they can get batteries replaced.

Agassi hopes to pilot the project in a few countries next year and begin mass deployments in 2010. He says he's close to signed agreements with several car companies and countries.

smart USA driving premiere

San Francisco and Silicon Valley become “smart Valley” as the smart USA Media Test Drive event takes place in one of America’s “smartest” regions. The new smart fortwo is scheduled to roll on the streets of America in January. The shortest and most compact automobile currently in production will soon be launched in the world’s largest automobile market.

The smart fortwo is the right car, at the right time for U.S. Drivers. Americans are faced with volatile fuel prices, increased urban congestion and a mindset of environmental responsibility. The smart fortwo offers a high level of comfort, agility, safety and ecology. Its unique features and attributes meet consumer wishes now and well into the 21st century.

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Posted by Frank at 12:16 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Mercedes-Benz | Smart

Volkswagen drivers rally at Abu Dhabi

Wolfsburg -- After the 272-kilometre dune stage of the UAE Desert Challenge the Volkswagen factory drivers Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany) are in fourth place, ahead of their teammates Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (Spain/France).

Sainz/Périn had been leading the stage, which started in Abu Dhabi, until suffering a puncture. The season finale in the FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup with the start and finish in Dubai will continue on Tuesday with a 328-kilometre loop around the desert bivouac in Moreeb.

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Posted by Frank at 12:13 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volkswagen

Volvo presents new automatic braking systems

Volvo Cars unveils a unique system that can help the car driver avoid the sort of low-speed collisions that are so common in urban traffic and in slow-moving traffic queues. If the driver is about to drive into the vehicle in front and does not react in time, the car brakes itself.

The system is called City Safety and it is Volvo Car Corporation's ambition to apply the technology to prevent half of all rear-end collisions. Volvo is also showing three other smart systems that will help to avoid collisions with other vehicles and pedestrians.

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Posted by Frank at 11:53 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Volvo

GM Launches China Environmental Support

Shanghai, China – General Motors Corp. Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner announced today a far-reaching collaborative strategy to support the Chinese government’s pursuit of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly transportation that will be based on the principle of “in China, with China, for China.”

Wagoner was joined for today’s announcement by Xu Dingming, Vice Chairman of the Office of China Energy Leading Group; Chen Hong, President of SAIC Motor; and He Jiankun, Vice President of Tsinghua University.

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Posted by Frank at 11:47 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Environment | GM

BMW Financial Passes $25 Billion in Loans

Significant Business Milestone Fueled By Strength Of Company's Traditional Financial Services Products And Introduction of New Business Lines

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- Underscoring its position as a recognized leader in the automotive financing arena, BMW Group Financial Services this month surpassed the $25 billion threshold for its U.S. portfolio of serviced assets and grew its customer base to more than 700,000 contracts.

The announcement was made today by Edward A. Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group Financial Services.

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GM's Baltimore Transmission Plant Begins Production Of 2-Mode Hybrid

GM Only Automaker to Build Hybrid Transmission in United States; 75 Percent of 2-Mode Suppliers U.S.-based

WHITE MARSH, Md. – General Motors’ Baltimore Transmission Plant today officially began production of the auto industry’s most technologically advanced hybrid transmission – the only hybrid transmission designed and built in the United States by a major automaker.

The 2-Mode Hybrid transmission will debut in the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid, the industry’s only full-size hybrid SUVs. GM’s Arlington, Texas, assembly plant will begin building the hybrid vehicles next month.

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Suzuki Shines on the Strip at 2007 SEMA

LAS VEGAS -- American Suzuki Motor Corp. showcases four spirited and dynamic vehicles at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show, including its never-before-seen, sportbike-inspired SXForce LIVE vehicle based on the all-new 2008 four-door SX4 Sport.

A vehicle designed for four-wheel and two-wheel tuner enthusiasts, SXForce communicates Suzuki's "Way of Life" brand philosophy as a company that builds fun-to-operate vehicles, from its widely recognized and high-performance motorcycles to its exciting and versatile cars and SUVs.

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Model T Centennial Party Organizing for 2008

"Worldwide Recall" Issued on Ford Model Ts

RICHMOND, Ind. -- All Model Ts ever manufactured and still in existence are being recalled. The recall is, of course, voluntary and all part of the fun of the 2008 Model T Ford Centennial T Party being held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds and Exposition Center in Richmond, Indiana.

This weeklong event, running from July 21 to 26, 2008, is being called the "party of the century" for the "car of the century." Over 15 million Model T cars were built between 1908 and 1927. It's estimated that only 500,000 survive. Over 1,500 of those (from as far away as Australia, England and Norway) are expected next July in east central Indiana to celebrate the Ford Model T's 100th birthday for the largest gathering of Model Ts since they left the factory.

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Posted by Frank at 8:49 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

Nominate a Helpful Person to Win a Honda

LOS ANGELES -- This Thursday, November 1st will be the final day to submit nominations for the 1st Annual Honda Helpful Awards, a celebration that honors Helpfulness among residents in Southern California.

Friends, family, peers and co-workers will have the opportunity to visit a participating Honda dealership or the Southern California Honda Dealers Association website, http://www.socalhonda.com/, to nominate a helpful member of the community whose life would be significantly improved by a new Honda.

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Five Finalists Compete for 2008 Green Car of the Year Award

LOS ANGELES — The winner of the 2008 Green Car of the Year award has been narrowed to five nominees, according to an announcement by Green Car Journal, the leading automotive environmental magazine. The winner will be announced on Nov. 15 during Press Days at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

"There has been significant movement in the auto industry toward making mainstream models 'greener' in recent years, with notable milestones in fuel efficiency and low emissions," says Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal. "This is especially evident with hybrids, where gasoline-electric hybrid technology is being applied to popular models in the most important vehicle classes where consumers are shopping."

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Volvo's accident research team compiles know-how that saves lives

Know-how saves lives -- The Volvo Cars accident research team has therefore investigated more than 36,000 accidents over a period covering 35 years. Recently, Volvo Cars has also developed a research model and methodology for predicting the chain of events before and during a collision. The method helps to evaluate the effectiveness of new preventive safety systems such as Collision Warning with Auto Brake and City Safety.

The method is an extension of the traditional traffic accident research which has focused on the actual collision and its consequences. Volvo Cars has now extended the research and made it possible to go back in time from the crash and study the chain of events that led to the accident.

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New Hampshire Teens Rally Against Their No. 1 Killer

West High School Students Hold Demonstration to Raise Smart Driving Awareness and Save Teen Lives

Keep the Drive Manchester is a teen-to-teen movement to help students change the way they think and act in a car. It empowers teens to be smart driving activists among their peers.

As one of 20 summits nationwide sponsored by The Allstate Foundation this year, the event encourages teens to help reduce the 6,000 teen deaths caused by car crashes each year.

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Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Safety

Mercedes supports Palestine school for disadvantaged children

Beit Sahour/Stuttgart -- Daimler AG, the children’s mission “Die Sternsinger” (“The Star Singers”) and the Mercedes-Benz general agency for the Kingdom of Jordan and Palestine T. Gargour & Fils Company, today handed over a Mercedes-Benz people carrier of the type Vito 115 CDI to the “School of Joy” in Beit Sahour, Palestine.

The “School of Joy” or “Al-Farah” is a private school that is mainly financed by donations. It takes care of approximately 60 children and teenagers who have learning weaknesses or are mentally handicapped, orphans, or from very poor backgrounds.

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Posted by Frank at 7:55 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

AIAM Urges Congress to Pass Federal Fuel Economy Legislation

Raising fuel economy standards would help reduce U.S. dependency on oil, improve environment

ARLINGTON, Va. -- In a recent letter sent to House and Senate leadership, the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM) has called on Congress to act this year to
pass federal legislation establishing more stringent fuel economy standards.

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Posted by Frank at 7:36 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Environment | Finance

Chrysler Financial Chooses Salesforce.com for Financial Services

SAN FRANCISCO -- Salesforce.com (NYSE:CRM) , the market and technology leader in on-demand business services, today announced that Chrysler Financial, a provider of tailor-made leasing and financing solutions for DaimlerChrysler dealers and customers, has joined the more than 1,600 financial services companies increasing their business success with Salesforce for Financial Services.

Using Salesforce, Chrysler Financial is providing users across the company's three brands with business applications that are as easy to use and customize as consumer Web applications, leading to greater efficiency and improved customer service.

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Edwards places second in Wild Atlanta finish

CARL EDWARDS PRESS CONFERENCE – TELL US ABOUT YOUR RUN. “Our Office Depot Fusion was not as good as it has been here at Atlanta, but we did the best we could all day. I love this race track. I had a blast. I had a lot of my friends here and I’m just excited that we ended up second. I wish it would have gone a couple of laps. I think we would have had an awesome race with Dale and Jimmie. That was gonna be a lot of fun and Matt had four tires and he was right there, so it would have been a heck of a race.”

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Posted by Frank at 12:26 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

October 28, 2007

BMW Concept 1 Series tii

Based on the new BMW 1 Series Coupé being presented to the world public for the first time at the Tokyo Motor Show 2007, this fascinating design study is the consistent evolution of BMW’s compact two-door with a clear focus on uncompromising sportiness.

With its aerodynamically optimised body, a wide range of lightweight features serving to minimise the weight of the car and its axle load distribution, as well as an interior tailored specifically to the ambitious driver, this concept study clearly offers a high level of driving dynamics right from the start.

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Nissan to race GT-R in Japan's Super GT Series

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. (NISMO) today announced that the NISSAN GT-R will run in the GT500 class of the SUPER GT series in Japan for the 2008 season.

It has been four years since the GT-R last competed in Japan , when it won the Japan GT Championship in 2003 . Private testing is planned to start soon in Japan.

Details including vehicle specifications and team structure will be announced at the Nissan Motorsports Press Conference in February 2008.

Posted by Frank at 7:26 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Nissan

The XC60 Project – delivering a capable and charismatic crossover from Volvo

The Volvo XC60 Concept takes centre stage at the Detroit Motor Show, integrating both the unmistakable, muscular XC-versatility and the sporty charisma of a coupe. “One might say that this could be the C30 owner’s next car. Equally sporty and exciting, but far more capable. The concept car offers a good indication of what the “real” XC60 will look like,” says Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Cars. The new Volvo XC60 is planned to reach the showrooms at the beginning of 2009.

The concept car shows that Volvo Cars’ XC60 project is ready to challenge the competition in what is currently the toughest and fastest-growing segment in the automotive world – the Small Premium Utility segment. Today there are only a handful of models in this segment but within the next few years buyers will have at least ten to choose between.

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Posted by Frank at 7:15 PM | Filed under 2008 Vehicles | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volvo

Mazda Evolves Zoom-Zoom Three Times Over

TOKYO, JAPAN -- Zoom-Zoom evolution is the concept behind the new Mazda Atenza.

Along with enhanced environmental and safety performance, the car has a more emphatic Mazda character in its design, dynamic performance, packaging and craftsmanship. Mazda adopted the following key values to embody the development concept.

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Posted by Frank at 7:11 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Mazda

MINI tops 2007 Total Value Index

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- For the sixth consecutive year, MINI has earned top honors in Strategic Vision's 2007 Total Value Index TM (TVI). For 2007, the MINI brand achieved the highest ranking of all brands surveyed with an overall TVI score of 817.

The MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Convertible also achieved the highest TVI score in their respective segments - an honor both models have received every year since they were launched.

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Posted by Frank at 7:00 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance | MINI

Dodge Asks Is Tuning Out a Turn Off?

Sure, a tuned out car may be a turn on, but what about all that time spent alone in the garage?

Just in time for SEMA, Dodge is inviting tuners, and their significant others, to tell their story. The best entry at www.DodgeRUTunedOut.com will win an all-new 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4, and presumably more time to spend with their loved one.

For more details, go to www.DodgeRUTunedOut.com.

Posted by Frank at 6:58 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Chrysler | Dodge

Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid -- A fresh approach to the future of Zoom-Zoom

TOKYO, JAPAN -- Thanks to its combination of Mazda’s trademark Zoom-Zoom performance and excellent environmental efficiency, the hydrogen rotary engine (Hydrogen RE) is one of the leading lights in Mazda's efforts to develop the power plant of the future.

To demonstrate the exceptional environmental performance of this engine that burns hydrogen to generate motive power and emits zero CO2, Mazda has been leasing the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE to corporations and local government bodies since 2006.

Continue reading" Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid -- A fresh approach to the future of Zoom-Zoom"

Dodge BFT: Because Some Pickups Just Aren’t Big Enough

One owner of Clydesdales thought that the standard eight-foot bed on his pickup truck just wasn’t enough room for all the hay he needed to haul to feed his horses.

“The more bed you can give him the better,” said Scott Krugger, Chrysler Senior Designer in the Advanced Exterior Studio. “One thing they always say is they can never get enough bed.”

With customers like the Clydesdale horse owner in mind, Krugger and Mark Allen, Chief Designer of the Jeep/Dodge Truck Studios, designed the Dodge Ram BFT, the SEMA concept vehicle that will appear at the 2007 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Continue reading"Dodge BFT: Because Some Pickups Just Aren’t Big Enough"

Good start for Volkswagen drivers Sainz and de Villiers in Dubai

Wolfsburg -- Volkswagen factory drivers Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (Spain/France) and Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany) made a good start to the UAE Desert Challenge in Dubai.

At the prologue of the six-day desert rally covering a merely two-kilometre offroad distance not far from the famous Burj Al Arab hotel, both factory teams finished in the top ten in front of a sizable turnout of spectators.

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Posted by Frank at 6:44 PM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Volkswagen

Mercedes-Benz Introduces Audio Logo

Stuttgart – As part of its new brand image, Mercedes-Benz is for the first time introducing an “acoustic trademark”: the new sound logo, which will be used in all ad broadcasts starting on November 1, 2007, is intended to enhance the further developed brand design.

Combined with a new film fade-out, the distinctive sound serves to focus attention more sharply on the star as the Mercedes-Benz trademark.

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Posted by Frank at 4:53 PM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Audio | Mercedes-Benz

Like a bag of candy - the Volvo XC60 Concept

Unveiling the XC60 Concept at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2007 was the climax of four months' intensive work at Volvo Cars Concept Centre. The centre is Volvo Cars' very own ‘inventors' workshop'. It includes eight different departments.

The staff working in this centre are all specialists of different kinds, and they really know their stuff. The fabrication of the XC60 Concept had about 70 staff involved in working on it.

Continue reading"Like a bag of candy - the Volvo XC60 Concept"

Mazda Taiki Concept - aimed at a sustainable society

TOKYO, JAPAN -- Mazda Taiki reflects one possible direction for a future generation of Mazda sports cars aimed at helping create a sustainable society.

The fourth concept car in the Nagare design series, Mazda Taiki, further evolves the “flow” theme to establish a breathtaking presence that clearly defines its Nagare credentials, and visually expresses the atmosphere - called taiki in Japanese - that wraps the Earth in its protective mantle.

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Posted by Frank at 11:13 AM | Filed under 5th Wheel | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Mazda

Volvo XC60 Concept – six-cylinder bio-ethanol engine

The chosen power-train for the Volvo XC60 Concept is a six-cylinder, 3.2-litre bio-ethanol engine with All Wheel Drive.

The engine offers the driver dynamic performance in the form of 265 horsepower and 251 lb/ft (340 Nm) of torque – with emissions of fossil carbon dioxide dropping by up to 80 percent when driving, compared with the same engine running only on gasoline.

At the moment, three of Volvo Cars’ nine models – the C30, S40 and V50 – are available on nine European markets with the bio-ethanol-powered FlexiFuel alternative.

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Video: "Under the Pentastar" Wraps Up Chrysler's Week

"Under the Pentastar" is a fast-paced video recap of five significant Chrysler stories from the past seven days in three minutes or less.

This week's stories include SEMA vehicles, Viper launch, Chrysler at the Tokyo Motor Show, commercial vehicle onslaught and Sprinter pricing.

Coming to SEMA - SR 392 Roadster with Hemi Crate Engine

Auburn Hills, Mich. – What do you get when you combine the new 392 HEMI crate engine from Mopar with the world’s first-ever steel reproduction of a 1927 street rod body and three car-crazy designers?

The result is a custom SR 392 Roadster that will debut in the Mopar booth (#42427) at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.

The SEMA Show is the annual showcase of technology, trends and products representing the $36.7 billion automotive parts and accessories industry that will be held Oct. 30 – Nov. 2, 2007 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

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Porsche welcomes the dismissal of "VW Rule"

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG in Stuttgart welcomes the decision of the Labour Court of Stuttgart, Chambers of Ludwigsburg, which dismissed the interim injunction that VW Concern’s works council applied for.

Porsche feels strengthened in its interpretation of the law, according to which the Codetermination Agreement regarding the future Porsche Automobil Holding SE was correctly concluded by the Porsche AG’s board of executive directors and the special negotiating body.

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Ford Mondeo Voted Best for the Buck

HARROGATE, YORKSHIRE – The new Ford Mondeo has beaten tough competition in the annual Northern Group of Motoring Writers (NGMW) awards to win the 'best value for money' prize. This latest recognition is one of numerous awards won by the new Mondeo including honours from Auto Express, Caravan Club and Fifth Gear.

The NGMW "Best For T’Brass" award is given to the manufacturer for the best value car on sale today. The trophy – a genuine brass miner's lamp – is the top award presented by the Northern media group.

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Posted by Frank at 10:43 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Ford

Chrysler Confirms the UAW Ratification of National Labor Agreement

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC today confirmed a new Chrysler-UAW 2007 national labor agreement, in response to the UAW's ratification results. Chrysler and the UAW reached a tentative agreement on Wednesday, October 10, after three months of bargaining.

"We are pleased that our UAW employees recognize that the new agreement meets the needs of the company and its employees by providing a framework to improve our long-term manufacturing competitiveness," said Tom LaSorda, Vice Chairman and President, Chrysler LLC.

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SEMA Concept – Dodge Dakota MX Warrior

How’s this for cool? Scott Waraniak is a 19-year old who splits his time racing motocross bikes and studying design in Detroit, and next week he’ll be showing off a Dodge pickup truck at SEMA that he helped customize.

A sophomore at the College of Creative Studies, Waraniak designed the graphics splattered on the side of the Dodge Dakota MX Warrior, which look as if they’re splashed from a colorful off-road puddle. The orange graphics pick up the orange in Waraniak’s #936 KTM motorbike secured in the bed.

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Toyota Offers Payment Relief and Purchase Options for Impacted by SoCal Fire Victims

TORRANCE, Calif. -- As part of Toyota's overall disaster relief efforts, Toyota Financial Services (TFS) announced it is offering a number of payment relief options for its customers directly impacted by the wildfires ravaging many parts of Southern California.

Impacted lease and retail customers who reside in the FEMA designated disaster areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties may be eligible to take advantage of several payment relief options, some of which include:

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California Speedway Announces Southern California Wildfire Relief Aid

Speedway, ISC and the France Family Pledge a Minimum of $250,000 in Services and Aid for Victims of Southern California Wildfires

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif. -- California Speedway along with International Speedway Corporation and the France family have joined together to pledge a minimum of $250,000 in services and aid to be donated to relief efforts for the wildfires that have ravaged Southern California this week.

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Posted by Frank at 10:19 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance

Hyundai Employees and Dealers Contribute to Southern California Fire Relief Efforts

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai Motor America (HMA), its employees and dealers are making a concerted effort to assist in providing relief to those who have suffered in the recent fires which have ravaged portions of Southern California.

"All of us in Southern California are affected by this disaster and we're eager to pitch in and help with the relief efforts in as many ways as possible," said Keith Duckworth, executive vice president, general affairs, HMA. "Hyundai's thoughts and concern go out to those who have been affected and hopes these donations will help alleviate their suffering."

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Posted by Frank at 10:17 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Finance | Hyundai

Vehicle's Air and Cabin Filters Offer Critical Protection from Soot, Smoke

BETHESDA, Md. -- The soot and smoke from wildfires can be a serious concern for both vehicles and passengers, unless the air filters and cabin filters are in optimum working condition. The Car Care Council suggests that these filters be checked to ensure they provide maximum protection during this difficult time.

The vehicle's air filter traps dirt particles, including soot, which can cause damage to engine cylinders, cylinder walls, pistons, piston rings and bearings. The air filter also plays a critical role in keeping smoke and soot from contaminating the airflow sensor on fuel-injected cars.

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Posted by Frank at 10:17 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech | Safety

FuelBoost Diesel Formula Provides Drivers More Bang for The Buck

AZUSA, Calif. -- Filling up at the pump can be a wallet draining experience leading many to search for new and unique ways of making the most out of the gas that gets put into their car. FuelBoost, a diesel fuel additive provides much needed relief to fuel tanks around the world by netting greater gas mileage and cleaner emissions.

Most Americans are unaware of the dangers of using low quality octane gas and ultra low sulfur fuels. The truth is that these commonly used gasoline types can produce unwanted performance snags that have drivers around the world wondering if there is a better way.

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Posted by Frank at 3:17 AM | Filed under Alternative Fuels | Auto Marketing | Auto News | Diesel

Simple Tips Protect Your Vehicle During Cold Temps and Tough Driving Conditions

ST. PAUL, Minn -- Winter weather is just around the corner, and with it come salty, sandy roads, cold starting conditions and sluggish performance for your vehicle. But a few simple tips from 3M Car Care can give your vehicle the equivalent of a water-resistant, protective coat for the outside and a warm cup of cocoa inside.

“Winter preparation is more important than spring cleanup for your car,” said John Mailand, technical services manager for 3M Retail Automotive. “The harsh weather can be hard on your car’s mechanical systems, while tough road conditions can wreak havoc on your car’s exterior. With a few easy maintenance projects this fall, you can really improve the performance of your vehicle this winter and enhance the longevity for years to come.”

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Posted by Frank at 2:33 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News | Car Tech

GEICO Partners with the National Hot Rod Association’s POWERade Series

LAS VEGAS -- GEICO, the country’s fastest growing auto insurance company, has officially partnered with one of the fastest forms of entertainment on wheels, the National Hot Rod Association’s (NHRA) POWERade series. The partnership was announced in Las Vegas over the weekend, and will make the auto insurer one of the premier corporate sponsors of the NHRA.

“We are pleased to welcome GEICO into the family of NHRA sponsors,” said Gary Darcy, vice president of sales and marketing, NHRA. “We look forward to working with GEICO to help identify new customers and provide a great platform for its marketing strategies that provides access to our avid NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series fans.”

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Posted by Frank at 1:33 AM | Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News