Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: December 2, 2007

December 8, 2007

Ramble On or Off-Road: Limited Edition Led Zeppelin Jeep Patriot

by Mike Ellis, Chrysler Communications

To coincide with the Led Zeppelin reunion concert in London, a British vehicle branding company is selling seven Limited Edition Led Zeppelin Jeep® Patriots, each with graphics that pay tribute to the band.

The seven limited edition vehicles are being sold £34,860, and are the 2.0 CRD Sport editions, with two-tone leather, privacy glass, 6-speed manual gearbox, and a premium sound system.

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December 8, 2007

Toyota Unveils Violin-playing Robot

Tokyo – Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) unveiled today two new robots, a “Mobility Robot” and a “Violin-playing Robot”—the newest additions to its Toyota Partner Robots being developed to support people’s everyday life.

The mobility robot, which is capable of autonomous movement over uneven ground and around obstacles, provides transport in places where people usually walk; the violin-playing robot, equipped with a total of 17 joints in both of its hands and arms, uses precise control and coordination to achieve human-like dexterity.

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BMW Group on track for global sales record in 2007

Munich -- The BMW Group is on track for a new record for sales for 2007 as a whole. Up to the end of November this year, 1,347,998 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand cars were delivered to customers.

Compared with the figures for the same period last year (1,244,778), this is an increase of 103,220 vehicles, or 8.3%. This means that, in the first eleven months of 2007, almost as many vehicles were delivered as in the whole of the previous year (2006 in total: 1,373,926). In November 2007, the company increased its car sales by 13.2% to 129,460 units (prev.yr.: 114,331).

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Freedom Calls: U.S. Soliders in Iraq Reconnect with Families via Chrysler Video Conferencing

U.S. Army Specialist Sean Stamps, a Pontiac, Mich. native who is stationed in Iraq, had the chance to see and talk with his family today via a live video conference at Chrysler headquarters.

“I can’t tell you how important it is, especially during the holidays, for soldiers to be able to able to talk to their families,” Stamps said as his family looked on. “Especially on video, they can see them. It just means a lot. It’s a huge morale booster for the unit and for the individual soldiers.”

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Ford links Pop Phenom Chris Brown with SYNC

DEARBORN, MI — Ford Motor Company's partnership with Jive Recording Pop Phenom Chris Brown has shifted into drive as the Ford sponsored Up Close & Personal Holiday Exclusive Tour Powered by SYNC kicks off in Cincinnati, Ohio today.

The partnership is a chance for Ford to take its latest technology on the road and ultimately integrate some of the key features of the technology into the tour in a way that has never been done. Radio and Television advertisements featuring Chris Brown that highlight SYNC will also be a part of the alliance, which represents the first time that Ford is targeting such a young urban audience with a deeply integrated experience.

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Toyota Develops World-class Driving Simulator

Real-as-possible Environment to Aid Development of Active Safety Technology

Tokyo — Toyota has announced today that it has developed a world-class driving simulator for effectively analyzing the driving characteristics of average drivers to aid in the development and verification of traffic accident-reducing active safety technology.

The driving simulator, located at TMC's Higashifuji Technical Center in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, uses video, an acceleration simulator and other technology that allows vehicle researchers and developers to conduct driving tests that would be too dangerous to perform in the real world or that require specific driving conditions.

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Toyota to break ground on Indiana Visitors Center

Princeton, IN - Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) broke ground for its Visitors Center Thursday. Major construction of the Visitors Center begins in January, with the anticipated opening in late 2008.

The architectural and engineering design team is CK United and Hafer Associates, both of Evansville. The exhibit designer is RhodesWorks, of Champaign, Ill., and the construction team is CK United and Peyronnin Construction Company, also both of Evansville.

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VW's Double: “Dakar“ start and “Bundesliga” duel in Wolfsburg

Wolfsburg -- Motorsport meets football: On Saturday, 15 December, the Volkswagen team will take its leave to head for the Dakar Rally, followed by a match between VfL Wolfsburg and Borussia Dortmund.

For the "Dakar” departure, the motorsport squad will present itself with its race and service vehicles on the "Plaza” at the VOLKSWAGEN Arena of Wolfsburg’s Allerpark from 1 to 2.30 p.m. and afterwards keep its fingers crossed for the "Wolves” from Wolfsburg for the meeting between the two national league football teams.

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Suzuki Debuts Custom L-R-G Hayabusa

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC), in partnership with Lifted Research Group, better known as L-R-G, and 2Wheel Tuner magazine, today unveiled a fully customized 2008 Hayabusa sportbike at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show (IMS) at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, Calif.

Designed by L-R-G and built by Nick Anglada of Custom Sportbike Concepts (CSC) of Winter Garden, Fla., the L-R-G Hayabusa blends the panache of one of the hottest urban brands in fashion with the iconic personality of Suzuki's fastest production motorcycle.

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Bentley Showcases the Art of Design at 2007 Art Basel Miami Beach

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Bentley Motors, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of handcrafted, personally commissioned luxury automobiles, announces a unique collaboration with leaders in the world of design during Art Basel Miami Beach 2007.

Art Basel Miami Beach is the most important art show in the U.S., combining an international selection of top galleries with an exciting program of special exhibitions and crossover events bringing together the worlds of music, film, architecture and design.

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Kia Names John Crowe New Vice President of Service

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kia Motors America, Inc. (KMA) today announced John Crowe will be joining the company as vice president, service, effective January 2, 2008.

In his new role with Kia, Crowe will direct and manage all aspects of service including customer satisfaction initiatives, retail fixed operations development, product quality, technical service operations, warranty administration and consumer affairs. This position will report to Len Hunt, president and chief executive officer, KMA.

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Carroll Shelby Licensing Responds to Comments by Car Club

GARDENA, Calif. -- Carroll Shelby, CEO of Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc., (CSL) has issued a statement in response to allegations made by the owners of the organization formerly known as the Shelby American Automobile Club.

"I wanted to explain my concerns to the members of the Shelby American Automobile Club directly, but couldn't because SAAC has refused to give me a list of its members, even though the licensee agreement with SAAC requires them to allow me access to their books and records. So I am being forced to share the facts through a news release.

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O'Brien Auto Group Announces Pending Purchase of Salem's DeLon Auto Center

Purchase Includes Five Dealerships

BELLEVUE, Wash. -- O'Brien Auto Group (OAG), one of the largest- and most-successful auto dealers in Washington state, today announced its intent to purchase DeLon Auto Center of Salem, Oregon. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The purchase, that's pending approval by affiliated auto manufacturers, will include all five DeLon dealerships and represent OAG's entry into the Oregon market. Founded in 1960, DeLon Auto Center currently employs 135 people in the Salem area at its BMW, Honda, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen and Volvo dealerships.

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December 7, 2007

Lakers Star A.C. Green to give away free car at LA dealer

LOS ANGELES -- Pro Motors Group Corp. (OTC: PMGU) announced today former Los Angeles Lakers Star and NBA Ironman, A.C. Green, will be giving away a FREE! 2007 car on Dec. 8th!

Pro Motors Public Auto welcomes the public to their grand opening at 12345 Beach Blvd, Stanton, CA, on Dec. 8th, where they will be giving away a 2007 Ford Taurus, retail value of $10,885.00, stock #: 107116 DLR.

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Coca-Cola Extends NASCAR Sponsorship for Ten Years

ATLANTA -- Coca-Cola is expanding upon its 40-year relationship with NASCAR by extending its long-term partnership with the sanctioning body through 2017. The sponsorship commitment, one of the most significant in professional sports, allows multiple Coca-Cola brands to connect with racing fans and support NASCAR at all levels – from helping to fund grassroots racing to associating with some of the biggest names in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

The extension of the Company’s relationship with NASCAR follows the new 10-year sponsorship agreement with International Speedway Corporation (ISC), making Coke the leading soft drink pour across NASCAR-sanctioned tracks.

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Toyota Expects Robotics To Become A Key Business

Toyota president Katsuaki Watanabe says robotics--a natural extension of the automaker's use of robots in manufacturing--will be a core business for the Japanese automaker in coming years. Toyota will test out its robots at hospitals, company-related facilities and other places starting next year, he says, and hopes to put what it calls "partner robots" to real use by 2010.

At a demonstration yesterday, a 5-foot-tall, all-white robot played a pretty solid "Pomp and Circumstance" on the violin, using its mechanical fingers to press the strings correctly and bowing with its other arm. Watanabe also presented a vision of the future in which wheelchair-like "mobility robots" would offer "bed-to-bed" services to people--including the elderly and sick.

Toyota, maker of the Prius hybrid and the best-selling Camry sedan, has been a relative latecomer in robots compared with its domestic rival Honda, as well as other companies, including Hitachi, Fujitsu and NEC. "We want to create robots that are useful for people in everyday life," Watanabe says.

Regional GM Dealers Pick Their Ad Shops

Regional General Motors dealer ad groups will once again pick their own creative or media agencies in a "back-to-the-future scenario," as Brent Dewar, vp-field sales, service and parts for GM in North America, describes it. GM's goal is more effective advertising at the local level.

GM eliminated dealer ad groups in 1999 only to re-form them in 2000. While participation was voluntary, the local marketing groups, or LMGs, had to use GM's national agencies and the automaker controlled the accounts. Under the new system, the agencies will report to the dealer groups--a move that should give the retailers more flexibility in their markets, Dewar says.

The dealers will have two options: Stay with the incumbents or select a new shop. Dewar said the dealer groups, however, will have to fund customized work from any new agencies themselves. But the national shops will still provide creative in a "tool box" at no extra cost to dealer groups that decide to hire another agency.

Playboy Crowns the Audi R8 Hottest Car of 2008

CHICAGO -- Which cars will be turning heads on the street this year? According to Playboy's "2008 Cars of the Year," a high-performance hybrid surges past competitors, a European import squeezes to the top, and a luxury carmaker provides one of the most fuel efficient and affordable vehicles on the road.

The selected cars were chosen by an expert team of automotive writers who traveled the world and test drove every new model hitting the showroom floor this year. The vehicles were taken on the sharpest turns, most challenging curves, and the steepest hills to properly separate the superlative from the mediocre. The vehicles featured in Playboy's January issue include:

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High Gas Prices Have Consumers Searching for Hybrids

CHICAGO -- With gas prices again topping $3 a gallon, consumer interest in hybrid vehicles on Cars.com has increased dramatically over the past month. According to Cars.com's latest Consumer Search Index, all hybrid vehicles on the site have experienced an increase in consumer searches.

Six of the top 10 and 12 of the top 25 new cars experiencing the largest increase in search activity over the past month are hybrids.

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Hanover Insurance Announces 8.5% Rate Decrease for Motorcycle Policies

WORCESTER, Mass. -- The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE:THG) , a leading writer of auto, home and business insurance in Massachusetts, is lowering insurance premiums in Massachusetts for new and renewal motorcycle policies by 8.5 percent.

The new rates will be effective on April 1, 2008. They are the first to be placed on file by the Division of Insurance under the state's managed competition system.

The rate reduction will make The Hanover's comprehensive product even more competitive for motorcyclists.

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Volkswagen in the Formula 3 Euro Series

Wolfsburg -- New partnership in Formula 3: Effective immediately, Volkswagen supplies Formula 3 engines to Team Signature. The racing team from Bourges, France – with a track record of 40 international wins one of the most successful teams of this leading young-gun series – will be fielding four cars in the Formula 3 Euro Series in the upcoming season.

With the signing of Stefano Coletti from Monaco, the Italian Edoardo Mortara and Jean Karl Vernay from France, as many as three ambitious young drivers are already set to race for the team.

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Ford' s 2008 small car entry in Focus

COLOGNE -- The Ford Focus celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2008 with a dynamic new model. A fresh, new 'kinetic design' exterior, upgraded interior, new features and technologies, combine with outstanding environmental credentials and acclaimed driving dynamics to keep Focus at the front of the medium car market.

Since the original Focus was launched in 1998, around 5 million vehicles have been produced in Europe. Its influence on the automotive world has been significant – it was the first and - to date - the only car in the world to be acclaimed "Car of the Year" both in Europe and in North America, and it has won over 80 awards in Europe alone. Focus has even become a well-known Ford model in Asia, where it is now produced in several markets including China.

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Mercedes DIESOTTO concept wins "Safety and Technology Award"

The innovative DIESOTTO concept developed by Mercedes‑Benz has won its first major international award. In recognition of this forward-looking drive system, the well-known UK magazine Autocar presented its prestigious "Safety and Technology Award" to Mercedes-Benz at a ceremony in London.

Autocar's editor Chas Hallet acknowledged the development achievement of the DIESOTTO concept as impressive leading-edge technology with a high degree of practicability and the potential to ensure a bright future, both for the automotive industry and for motorists.

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Ford statement on House Energy Bill

The following is a statement from Ford Motor Company on the passage of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 by the House of Representatives:

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- "The House energy bill is an important step towards increasing the national fuel economy standard. It accomplishes our shared goal of reducing the nation's dependence on foreign oil and emissions of greenhouse gases.

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Video: Chrysler Wrap up for December 7, 2007

Five significant stories from Chrysler LLC the week of December 7, 2007: Stories include: Challenger sneak peek, November sales, five-star crash test ratings, a new face at Chrysler Financial and Alabama says “thank you.”

Ford recalls 1.17 million vehicles for engine flaw

Ford Motor Co. said Thursday it is recalling 1.17 million trucks, sport utility vehicles and vans to fix an engine sensor that could lead to engine stalling.

The recalled vehicles are all from the 1997-2003 model years with 7.3 liter diesel engines, including the Ford E-Series van, Excursion full-size sport utility vehicle, and F-450 Super Duty and F-550 Super Duty trucks.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a posting on its Web site that the camshaft position sensor located on the engine could function intermittently and lead to an engine stall and potential crash.

Seven 2008 Chrysler Vehicles Earn Five Stars in Government Crash Tests

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The 2008 Jeep(R) Liberty, 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2008 Dodge Nitro, 2008 Dodge Caliber, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica and the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country received the U. S. government's highest safety ratings for frontal- and side-impact crash protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

"Through a broad range of engineering technologies, Chrysler is offering its customers the safety they expect and deserve," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President -- Product Development, Chrysler. "Both passive and active safety systems enhance the inherent stability and safety we design into all of our Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles."

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Toyota Statement on Passage of Cafe Legislation

To be attributed to Jim Lentz, President, Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.

WASHINGTON -- Toyota congratulates Congressional leaders for passing this ground-breaking legislation. We at Toyota have long said that we want a CAFE bill passed this year, and the U.S. House of Representatives has delivered. This agreement represents a major step in the right direction that will result in significant oil savings and reductions in CO2.

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Pew Campaign Calls on Senate to Act in Wake of Energy Bill Vote

WASHINGTON -- Phyllis Cuttino, director of the Pew Charitable Trusts Campaign for Fuel Efficiency, issued the following statement on the House of Representatives passing an energy bill including a meaningful increase in fuel efficiency standards to 35 miles per gallon by 2020:

"For the first time in more than 30 years the U.S. House has passed a bill to increase fuel efficiency. This will save the average two-car family more than $700 at the pump every year, in 2020. That should be an early Christmas present for all Americans -- it should be, but it may not happen.

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Michigan Consumers to Save About $1 Million by Using AAA Member Discounts

DEARBORN, Mich. -- AAA is expecting Michigan shoppers to save an estimated $1 million this holiday season by taking advantage of member discounts at consumer electronic stores, booksellers, clothing boutiques and other retail establishments.

The prediction is based on forecast retail shopping data from AAA's Show Your Card & Save(R) program during November and December, 2007. AAA's Show Your Card & Save(R) program has more than 150,000 locations worldwide and is the largest member discount program in the world.

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December 6, 2007

Chrysler makes video calling available to Iraq soldier's families

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC has made its video conferencing facilities available through the holidays to families of military personnel stationed in Iraq.

Families of soldiers stationed at any of four locations in Iraq (Camp Taji, Al Asad Airbase, Camp Fallujah or Camp Victory, Baghdad), can schedule time to speak via video conferencing. Mr. Nardelli will kick-off the effort by speaking with Spc. Sean Stamps, a Pontiac, Mich. native who is stationed at Camp Taji in Iraq.

Goodyear Suggests a Tread Check Before 'Dashing Through the Snow'

AKRON, Ohio -- Winter sports enthusiasts anticipate this time of year for the chance to ski, skate and sled, although motorists likely fail to share that enthusiasm.

For the largest tire company in North America, the objective remains to offer products to help drivers "Get There," whether they are heading out to tackle slick roads on their way to enjoying those winter sports, or simply trying to get to work or another necessary destination.

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Report: Toyota Ranks Highest in Retaining New-Vehicle Buyers for 2nd Year

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Toyota leads the automotive industry in retaining the highest percentage of new-vehicle purchasers for a second consecutive year, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Customer Retention Study(SM) released today.

Now in its fifth year, the study measures the percentage of new-vehicle buyers and lessees who replace a previously purchased new vehicle with another from the same nameplate.

Improving by nearly one percentage point from 2006, Toyota (64.6%) leads the customer retention rankings, followed by Lexus (63.0%) and Honda (62.8%). Each brand achieves the same rank position in 2007 as in 2006.

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Toyota Announces Pricing for 2008 Sequoia

Sequoia Adds 105 More Horsepower

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the all-new second-generation 2008 Sequoia full-size sport utility vehicle (SUV), ranging from $34,150 to $55,600.

A 5.7-liter V8 engine is now available. In addition to an improvement of 105 horsepower, fuel economy was increased by nearly 12 percent on the highway compared to the standard 4.7-liter V8. The 5.7-liter engine is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV-II) and provides an available towing capacity of 10,000 lbs.

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N.Y. Company Enjoys Success with Environmentally-Friendly De-Icer

ROME, N.Y. -- Who would have thought that the solution to melt ice and snow on winter roadways could be discovered by combining two common household items found on the kitchen table or in the cupboard: salt treated with sugar.

Sears Ecological Applications Company (SEACO), a Rome, NY-based company that specializes in de-icing technology, that's who.

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Report: Portable Nav Owners Satisfied, Despite Problems

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Nearly two-thirds of portable navigation device (PND) owners have experienced a problem, yet 95 percent still say that their device meets or exceeds their expectations, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Portable Navigation Device Usage and Satisfaction Study(SM) released today.

The inaugural study measures customer satisfaction with automotive portable navigation devices by examining six factors: ease of use, routing, system appearance, speed of system, voice directions and navigation display screen. Consumers report the highest levels of satisfaction for the overall appearance and voice directions, while system speed receives the lowest satisfaction ratings.

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Only one month left to vote in the Volvo for life Awards

IRVINE, Calif. -- 'Tis the season of giving, so help celebrate 40 special people who give the gift of life, happiness and safety to those in need all year round, simply by giving them your vote. Forty hometown heroes have been identified as semi-finalists in the 6th Annual Volvo for life Awards and are in the running to win a $100,000 charitable contribution and a Volvo car for life!

But hurry, there's only one month left to vote. The poll to elect the nation's greatest hometown heroes closes Jan. 7, 2008.

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Senator Elizabeth Dole Honored for Air Bag Leadership

WASHINGTON -- Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, a national coalition of the leading consumer, health, safety groups, and insurance organizations, today presented its first "Lifetime Achievement Award" to U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole (R-NC) and Public Citizen president Joan Claybrook in recognition of their "significant contributions to advancing air bag technology."

Twenty years ago, few makes and models of cars were equipped with this lifesaving technology. Today, frontal airbags are standard equipment on all passenger vehicles, and U.S. government figures credit airbags with saving more than 25,000 lives over the past two decades. In addition, side head air bags are saving additional lives and will shortly become standard equipment on most passenger vehicles.

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Ford Shelby Mustang Co-Stars in Legend

DEARBORN -- Exactly one year after an all-new version of the Ford Mondeo was introduced to James Bond fans in the movie Casino Royale, another Ford vehicle is about to get some major screen time in a holiday blockbuster.

Beginning Dec. 14, look for a 2007 Shelby Mustang GT500 — in red with signature white stripes — to chew up the scenery and the streets of New York City in I Am Legend, starring Will Smith.

"There is no doubt that the Shelby Mustang GT500 is the costar of the first part of this story," said Brian Daly of Ford Global Brand Entertainment (FGBE), which places Ford vehicles in movies, TV and other media. "Smith plays the sole survivor of an apocalypse who races around the deserted, gray, empty streets in this fantastic bright red Mustang. The sequences are incredible."

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2008 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible

DETROIT — The Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible have earned the 2008 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick Award in the midsize category.

This is the fourth consecutive year that the 9-3 Sport Sedan has brought home IIHS top honors, an unique achievement in the luxury segment. For 2007 the 9-3 earned the Top Safety Pick Award, in 2006 the 9-3 earned the Top Safety Pick – Gold Award and received a Double Best Pick crash-test rating for 2005.

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Playboy Joins Mazda MX-5 Cup Program

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Using the largest motorsports trade show in the world as the venue, the world's most popular sports car has joined forces with one of the world's most popular brands, as Playboy becomes the title sponsor for the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup.

The MX-5 Cup saw thirty-percent growth in 2007 and is projected to become the number one spec professional series in the world. The series is also an integral part of the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development Ladder that promotes champions of Mazda series to the next level of their career.

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National Insurance Crime Bureau Introduces Vehicle Location and Recovery Program

DES PLAINES, Ill. -- The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preventing, detecting and defeating insurance fraud and vehicle theft, has introduced a program that supports vehicle finance companies in locating stolen, illegally exported, abandoned and impounded vehicles.

Through the program, vehicle finance companies can receive real-time notices of recovered stolen and impounded vehicles, and those exported or located in foreign countries. This notification process is a result of the NICB's data-sharing agreement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Crime Information Center in which the NICB maintains a "mirror image" of the FBI's vehicle theft database.

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Chrysler Financial Employees Support Denver Food Bank

The Chrysler Financial Denver Business Center employees will spend Tuesday, December 11 packing food into a newly donated 2007 Dodge Sprinter Cargo Van in Greenwood Village, Colo.

The Dodge Sprinter donation to Bienvenidos Food Bank is one of many ways local employees have supported the organization and their mission to provide emergency food to Northwest Denver.

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Chrysler Partners with ADESA to Benefit Used Vehicle Dealers

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC Remarketing and ADESA, a leading provider of auctions and related services for North America's automotive industry, recently announced a new partnership. ADESA will now host the automaker's new Chrysler Direct used vehicle Web site, www.chryslerdirect.com.

Formally branded as DC Direct, Chrysler Direct is Chrysler Remarketing's online venue for Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge franchised dealers. Utilizing this site, these dealers can view and purchase Chrysler's used vehicle fleet portfolio of products prior to these vehicles being offered to dealers at company closed auctions. Chrysler's affiliated auction network includes ADESA, Manheim and several independent auction houses.

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San Fran Airport Wins Award To Convert Airport Shuttles to Run on Hythane

DENVER -- San Francisco International Airport, in conjunction with Hythane Company (a subsidiary of Eden Energy Ltd. listed as EDE on the Australian Securities Exchange) and BAF Technologies, received a $499,800 grant to acquire 14 parking lot, hotel, and airline crew shuttles to run on Hythane fuel (a blend of 20% hydrogen and 80% natural gas).

The award represents half of a special Bay Area Air Quality Management District grant set aside for advanced technology demonstration programs.

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First Photos: All-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

-- Dodge releases first photos of production Challenger SRT8

-- All-new Challenger SRT8 to be shown publicly for the first time on Feb. 6, 2008, at the Chicago Auto Show

-- Dealers began accepting orders on Monday Dec. 3.

-- More than 4,300 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 vehicles were ordered by customers the first day.

Audi Sponsors Design Miami/2007

AUBURN HILLS, MI – Audi of America, Inc today announced its exclusive automotive sponsorship of Design Miami/2007, the most prominent and substantial forum for international design.

For the second year, Audi is both a sponsor and creative exhibitor at the forum, which lasts from December 7th through 9th, and brings together the world’s most influential designers, art gallery owners, dealers, and collectors to present and absorb the latest trends from the world of design.

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Chrysler November Certified Pre-owned Sales Down 2%

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC reported that its Five Star® dealers sold 9,280 Certified Pre-owned Vehicles (CPOV) in November 2007, a 2 percent decline from a record November 2006 when 9,437 units were sold.

During November 2007 certified-used Chrysler brand sales rose 2 percent to 2,936 units; Jeep® brand sales declined 7 percent to 2,442 units and Dodge brand sales dipped 1 percent to 3,902 units.

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VW Touareg gets new drivers for Dakar Rally

Wolfsburg -- Two new faces in Volkswagen’s driver line-up for Dakar Rally: Dieter Depping from Wedemark and Berliner co-driver Timo Gottschalk drive a Volkswagen Race Touareg for the first time in the Dakar Rally which starts on 5 January in Lisbon and finishes in Dakar on 20 January.

Both have a wealth of experience in classic rallying: Dieter Depping was German Rally Champion three times; co-driver Timo Gottschalk was involved in the 2005 and 2006 World Rally Championships as co-driver in the Red Bull Skoda. During the 2007 Dakar Rally they drove a Race Truck for Volkswagen together and, in doing so, collected experience in the world’s most famous desert rally.

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BMW Museum offers children's workshops

Munich -- Imagination and curiosity are the basic essentials for anyone keen to explore the world and grasp the workings of technology.

BMW Welt, opened on 20 October 2007, now presents Junior Campus, a new out-of-school learning and experience center for 7 to 13-year-olds and school classes from 2nd to 7th grade. In this independent experience center inside BMW Welt, young visitors are introduced to the world of mobility, experiencing it with all senses.

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MINI SUV to be built in Austria

Munich -- The new MINI Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) will be built by Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz, Austria. The vehicle concept, devised by MINI Design and BMW Group engineers, has been entrusted to Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik for series development and for later production.

The cooperation with Magna Steyr is an efficient way for BMW Group to ensure the planned profitable growth through new model launches set out in the company's strategic alignment.

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Mercedes global sales set record in 2007

Stuttgart – Mercedes-Benz has set a new sales record for the period between January and November, with 1,079,400 units delivered (Jan.-Nov. 2006: 1,042,500 units).

Sales rose by four percent compared to the same period of the previous year. By selling 102,700 passenger vehicles worldwide in November, Mercedes-Benz once again topped the high level set in November 2006 with 101,900 units sold.

Continue reading "Mercedes global sales set record in 2007"

Nissan Reports Record November Sales in Europe

TRAPPES, France -- Nissan reported a record November for sales in Europe with 49,168 units, up by 14.5% year on year. Year to date, Nissan has sold 521,285 units, up 6.2% compared with 2006.

Once again, sales were up for the eighth consecutive month and Nissan saw growth not only in Eastern Europe but also saw strong performances in the major markets across Western Europe.

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Domestics Still Hold Crown in New Truck Market

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kelley Blue Book Marketing Research today announces the third-quarter truck segment results of its new-vehicle consumer automotive perceptions study, Brand Watch.

According to the study, in-market truck shoppers still believe that domestic brands embody many of the qualities and perceptions they are looking for in their next new vehicle.

The latest edition of Brand Watch also reveals that during 2007, Toyota has made some significant strides in the truck segment, but they still have a long way to go to overtake Detroit.

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Report: BMW Ranks Highest in Initial Quality in South Africa

Mercedes-Benz Plant Ranks Highest in Initial Quality among Passenger Vehicle Manufacturing Plants in South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa -- For the first time since the inception of the study in 2004, BMW ranks highest in initial quality among passenger vehicle nameplates in South Africa, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 South Africa Initial Quality Study(SM) (IQS) released today.

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General Motors and Indian Institute of Technology expand collaboration

Bangalore -- General Motors Corp. and the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT KGP) today announced plans to carry out joint research in the areas of Electronics, Controls and Software (ECS). The partners also announced that a new educational curriculum would be jointly developed leading to a post-graduate degree in these fields.

The lab will be co-managed by GM’s India Science Lab (ISL) in Bangalore and IIT KGP’s Sponsored Research & Industrial Consultancy Unit. Research done at the new Collaborative Research Lab (CRL) will be shared within GM’s global research and development network.

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December 5, 2007

Mercedes-Benz 2008 C-Class Stars in Nic Cage Chase Scene

MONTVALE, N.J. -- The Mercedes-Benz C-Class shows its adventurous side as it races, screeches and smashes through the streets of London in NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS from Walt Disney Pictures, in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Films, in theatres nationwide December 21.

This daredevil chase scene is one of the largest of its kind in London's history, with landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Southwark Bridge serving as backdrops, and takes place at a pivotal moment in the plot of this highly anticipated motion picture.

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Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Racing through the Streets of London

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sport stars in one of the most massive pursuit sequences in London's history on the set of NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS from Walt Disney Pictures, in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Films.

Pulling into theaters everywhere on December 21, the all new C-Class Sport demonstrates its exceptional athleticism as it's pushed to its limits on the streets of London.

NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS stuntmen practiced driving the C-Class for weeks, testing it on various surfaces, so that once cameras were rolling, the maneuvers were perfectly choreographed.

Working closely with on location with Mercedes-Benz engineers, extensive safety systems of the C-Class, such as the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), were disabled in order to perform the slides, drifts and skids necessary for this high-speed, action-packed pursuit.

Video: smart fortwo to Launch in USA, January 2008

NEW YORK -- The shortest, most compact automobile currently in production will soon be launched in the world's largest automobile market, when the smart fortwo debuts in the United States in January, 2008.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG introduced this latest vehicle to the US market at a press briefing in Washington, DC.

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Jonas Brothers supports Chevy's Green Vehicle Line-up at RenCen

DETROIT, MI – Chevrolet is pleased to welcome Hollywood Records’ Jonas Brothers to the GM Renaissance Center for an informal concert for RenCen employees. The boys will be in Detroit as part of their sold out arena tour with Disney Channel star Hannah Montana.

“We are just so pleased to have these great boys at Chevy headquarters,” says Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper. “The Jonas Brothers represent clean, family entertainment and it’s through our partnership with Disney and the Equinox Electric Fuel Cell Vehicle program that we have been able to get to know them.”

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Pontiac Announces Pricing for 2009 Vibe

All-New Version of Compact Crossover Starts Under $16k

DETROIT - Pontiac today confirmed pricing for the 2009 Vibe will start at $15,895 when it arrives in dealer showrooms in February 2008.

Also returning to the Vibe family for the 2009 model year, an all-wheel drive model will start at $19,495 and the performance-oriented GT model will start at $19,895. All prices include a $585 destination and freight charge.

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General Motors' Flint Tool and Die Plant Recycles and Reuses all Plant Wastes

FLINT, Mich. – General Motors’ Flint Tool and Die Plant will recycle an amount of polystyrene equal to that of 42 million coffee cups this year, an achievement that makes the plant “landfill free,” recycling or reusing all normal plant wastes.

The facility makes polystyrene patterns that are used to create cast iron dies that stamp out body parts for virtually every General Motors vehicle sold in North America. Workers at the plant construct the precision patterns from big, 12-foot rectangular blocks of polystyrene. The patterns are used to mold the dies, which then return to the plant to be machined and finished. In a typical year, the plant will recycle 180,000 lbs of polystyrene.

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Orders flood in for 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

by Mike Ellis, Chrysler Communications

What has muscle cars fans squealing like teenage girls at a Hannah Montana concert?

Try the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8®. Just in the first DAY of orders, more than 4,300 people plunked down a deposit for the American muscle coupe.

And more than 6,000 have made deposits with dealers since orders opened on Monday, months before the limited-edition Challenger SRT8 goes into production.

“This is unprecedented,” said Mark Mallie, Challenger Brand Manager – Dodge Marketing. “Customers were actually coming to us and pushing us, so we thought this was a good time to take pre-sale orders.”

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Mercedes builds a new Popemobile

In future, Pope Benedict XVI will present himself to the 40,000 or so pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square in a shining white, open-top Mercedes-Benz G-Class during his public audiences on Wednesdays.

The new "Popemobile" was created over a two-year development period in close consultation with the Vatican, and has now been personally handed over to the Holy Father.

This open official car, which the Head of the Catholic Church requested for use during fine weather, was developed by Mercedes-Benz on the basis of the G 500. It is equipped with a folding windscreen and hand-rails, and like its predecessors it is painted in the Vaticanmystic white finish.

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New Aerokit for the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupé

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h. c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has developed a special Aerokit for the 911 Turbo Coupé. It includes a front spoiler lip and an entirely new engine cover design with fixed aerofoil.

The characteristic front lip and the distinctive rear spoiler lend the typical turbo silhouette an even more dynamic appearance. The Porsche development center engineers in Weissach attached the greatest possible importance to aerodynamic functionality.

The most important objective among the components refined in the wind tunnel was to improve the handling characteristics, given an unchanged drag coefficient of 0.31 compared with the production version.

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Ford earns clean vehicle award

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Today, for the second time, Ford Motor Company was awarded the “Clean Vehicle Award” from the International Energy Agency (IEA) Implementing Agreement on Hybrid & Electric Vehicles for the company’s achievement in obtaining high energy efficiency and lower energy consumption in the transport sector.

Ford accepted the award today at the 2007 Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS23) in Anaheim.

Out of three possible categories, Ford was recognized for achieving sales of more than 50,000 hybrid models worldwide as part of the organization’s award given to manufacturers with outstanding sales figures – surpassing thresholds of 25,000; 50,000; 100,000 and more than 250,000 clean vehicles sold.

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Toyota Teaching Teens

Each year, teenage drivers are involved in about 8,000 fatal traffic accidents. More than 5,000 die, some 30,000 are hospitalized and another 400,000 are injured in car crashes.

Toyota Driving Expectations is designed to make a positive impact on those frightening statistics. Since its inception in 2004, more than 7,100 teens and parents have completed the program.

In 2008, Toyota Driving Expectations will again give teens across the country both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel experience in such things as how to properly employ anti-lock brakes and the dangers of distracted driving.

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LoJack Offers Timely Theft Prevention Tips

WESTWOOD, Mass. -- As shoppers are out in droves this holiday season checking off items from their Christmas lists, thieves are often doing a little "shopping" of their own.

This time of year, vehicles are particularly vulnerable to theft, as thieves are on the lookout for "easy mark" cars to steal, especially those piled high with bags of newly purchased gifts. To help consumers protect themselves from theft this time of year, LoJack Corporation is issuing vehicle theft protection recommendations.

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Enerpulse Releases New Pulse Plug for BMW, Mercedes and Chrysler Automobiles

Unique drop-in replacement for spark plugs improves engine performance

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Ignition products company Enerpulse, Inc. announced today that it has released to market a newly designed pulse plug under the brand name of Pulstar (tm) Model BE1.

The new design is specifically engineered to replace spark plugs in most late model BMW, Mercedes and Chrysler automobiles and provides those vehicles with improved fuel economy and performance.

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Toyota Electric Power Steering Gets The Fluid Out

Many new Toyotas, including the Highlander, RAV4, Yaris, and some upcoming '09 models employ Electric Power Steering (EPS).

In this system, an electric motor replaces the traditional engine-powered pump and hydraulically driven ram.

To the driver, the system is completely transparent. EPS systems can easily be tuned to duplicate the effort and feel of conventional systems.

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AOCA Uncovers Misleading Warranty Notice Scheme in Canada

DALLAS -- The Automotive Oil Change Association (AOCA), which represents the fast lube industry in North America, recently investigated the following notice found printed under the hood of several Chrysler vehicles in Ontario, Canada:

DAIMLER CHRYSLER CANADA RESERVES THE RIGHT TO DENY WARRANTY COVERAGE IF NOT ALL OF THE RECOMMENDED SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE IS COMPLETED AND PERFORMED USING ONLY GENUINE MOPAR PARTS AND LUBRICANTS.

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New 'Teen Driving' Alerts Taking Off Nationally

A mother's drive to keep her teen son safe behind the wheel has grown into a business gaining national exposure.

Rookie Driver.Net is a Midwest company gaining national recognition on the issue of teen driving safety thru a line of safety alert products created by a mom and her teenage son. Their products are currently sold in 44 states and Canada.

Mercedes probes India opportunity

Will new opportunities arise for the automotive industry from India’s IT and service sectors? What will the environment-friendly and luxurious touring sedan of the future look like? What career lies ahead of the BLUETEC diesel? These and other fascinating questions will be answered in the new HTR HightechReport of Daimler AG.

At www.daimler.com/innovation, the redesigned technology magazine will from now on offer additional articles and in-depth reports online. By accessing the HTR Online knowledge portal, you will find the new edition with an exclusive interview with US economist Jeremy Rifkin about his vision in energy politics, as well as with workshop talks about trends in infotainment and telematics.

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Camrys Complete First Racing Season With Two In Top-20

Homestead, FL -- Toyota Camry and Tundra drivers helped close out the 2007 NASCAR season at Homestead-Miami Speedway with a triple-header weekend. Dave Blaney finished 12th after running with the leaders in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series (NNCS) season finale on Sunday. David Reutimann and Jason Leffler earned a pair of top-15 finishes on Saturday and secured second and third in the NASCAR Busch Series (NBS) championship point standings.

Johnny Benson secured the Tundra's 13th victory of the 2007 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) season on Friday placing him third in the driver point standings, while Mike Skinner finished second in the championship point standings.

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International Battery Receives $25 Million for Hybrid Battery Development

OAKLAND, N.J. -- International Battery (IB) announced today that the Company has secured up to $25 million of financing from Digital Power Capital, an affiliate of Wexford Capital LLC, a Greenwich, CT-based investment advisor that manages a series of affiliated private equity and hedge funds. This funding will allow the Company to complete its manufacturing facility in Allentown, Pennsylvania, advance product development and proceed to implement its business plan.

International Battery's new Allentown facility will produce large format lithium ion rechargeable cells and batteries, allowing International Battery to increase its domestic capability for production of low cost lithium ion cell technology for use in hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and extended range electric vehicles.

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The Diesel Emissions Conference is now in Asia

LONDON -- The Diesel Emissions Conference (DEC) is now in Asia Pacific. Integer has held this strategic business conference for the last three years in Europe, and in 2008 it will be hosted in Asia too. The conference will take place in the Radisson Hotel Pudong Century Park on 11 & 12 March.

"Vehicle manufacturers and suppliers in Asia-Pacific are facing a tough new challenge, to bring low-emissions diesel vehicles onto Asia's city streets and highways," says Integer Director, Christopher Pett. "They are currently facing the same Euro IV diesel emission standards that Europe faced some years ago, and the commercial opportunities are similar, if not greater. There is money to be made, but there is also threat from competition."

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December 4, 2007

Porsche Boxster & Cayman Hit a Double

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The Most Successful Mid-Engine Duo in Sports Car History Wins Accolades from Car and Driver and Automobile Magazine. Again.

ATLANTA -- Car and Driver Magazine’s 10Best cars sold in America and Automobile Magazine’s All-Stars Award; titles that any automotive company would be proud to stake claim to.

This year, the dynamic 2008 Porsche Boxster, Boxster S, Cayman and Cayman S have won both simultaneously. Being chosen as a winner by two separate editorial staffs who evaluate hundreds of new automobiles every year makes winning these honors even more meaningful.

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Did you hear the one about the Porsche P'9521 Phone?

HOUNSLOW, England -- Mobilephones24.co.uk has confirmed that the Porsche P9521 mobile phone, the first ever mobile phone designed by Porsche and made of aluminum, will be on sale in the UK in early December 2007 through Mobilehones24.co.uk.

Porsche with its French partner Sagem have collaborated to design the stylish and sleek Porsche P'9521. With the classy look and killer style this mobile phone really is for those who like to live life to the full.

Designed with a double hinge system, which allows you to open and rotate the phone 360 degrees, topped with a touch sensitive screen the sophistication just keeps coming.

Continue reading "Did you hear the one about the Porsche P'9521 Phone?"

BorgWarner's Dual-Clutch Transmission for Small Cars

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- As a leader in dual- clutch transmission technology, BorgWarner is once again revolutionizing the transmission market. A unique new dual-clutch transmission for developing markets and small cars is in the final development stages at BorgWarner.

Working in conjunction with several Asian automakers, BorgWarner will be providing patent-pending dual-clutch transmission architecture that delivers fuel efficiency in an affordable package ideal for the growing small car demand in developing markets.

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Porsche recalls 128 911 GT3s for quick fix

Stuttgart -- Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is having the control console for the TC-Off and PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) buttons replaced on 128 units of the 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 RS delivered to customers worldwide.

This involves cars built between 28 September and 9 November 2007.

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Study: Hybrid Owners Are Wealthier and Smarter Than You

NEW YORK -- Democratic, wealthy, educated and active are four adjectives that describe today's hybrid vehicle owner, according to a recent analysis from Scarborough Research, a consumer and media research firm.

Scarborough's analysis finds that almost half (42 percent) of the households in the U.S. that own or lease at least one hybrid vehicle have an annual income of $100,000 or more. That is more than twice the national average.

The adults who live in these households, "Hybrid Owners," are more than twice as likely as all U.S. adults to have a college degree. This includes the twenty-seven percent of Hybrid Owners who have a post graduate degree, compared to nine percent of adults overall. Hybrid Owners skew older than average, and are 23 percent more likely than average to be aged 50+.

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Dieter Zetsche Presents Smart Fortwo to Representatives of U.S. Government and Business

STUTTGART, Germany and WASHINGTON -- At a traditional luncheon with prominent speakers hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, Daimler Chairman Dr. Dieter Zetsche today presented the smart fortwo to representatives of U.S. businesses and government as an environmentally friendly solution for future mobility.

Starting in January, the compact model, which has already been very successful in Europe with about 850,000 units sold, will also be available in the U.S.

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Goodyear Armor Max Commercial Tires Meet TREAD Act Rules

AKRON, Ohio -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE:GT) announced today that it has developed commercial-duty light-truck tires that address the stringent regulations established by the federal TREAD Act.

Unveiling its new Armor Max Technology, Goodyear introduced four new light-truck tires for commercial use.

Steve McClellan, vice president of Goodyear's commercial tire systems, said, "The TREAD Act's testing is intense, and by developing tires for rugged urban and off-road applications, Goodyear's research and development capabilities were allowed to shine."

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New $695 Hans Device Announced

ATLANTA -- HANS Performance Products is excited to announce their brand new HANS Device -- the Sport Series. The design is guaranteed to provide the same level of industry leading safety as existing HANS Devices, but retail at just $695.

All models in the $695 Sport Series offer the same proven strength and protection as existing HANS Devices. Breakthroughs in carbon fiber molding technology have allowed HANS Performance Products to pass cost savings directly onto racers. Sport Series models become available in the new-year. The most popular sizes will be available first. Pre - production parts will be at the HANS booth during this week's PRI show.

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Lithia Toyota of Abilene Makes a Move

ABILENE, Texas -- Lithia Motors, Inc.announced today the opening of its newest state of the art facility, Lithia Toyota of Abilene.

The 38,000 square foot store, located at 4449 Southwest Drive, was built using Toyota's Image USA II design, incorporating customer-friendly features such as a lounge area and children's play zone, as well as energy efficient building standards and a modern architectural style.

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Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid delivered to SoCal Edison

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Ford Motor Company’s first demonstration Escape Plug-In Hybrid is ready to roll on California roads. Ford today delivered the first of 20 research PHEVs to Southern California Edison to begin road testing as part of a unique partnership between the automaker and utility.

The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, a research vehicle using high voltage, lithium-ion batteries, can deliver up to 120 miles per gallon which would mean far fewer trips to the gas station. The vehicle uses common household current (120 volts) for charging.

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BMW Motorsport celebrates a grand 2007

Munich -- Around 600 international guests were joined by the BMW drivers and BMW Motorsport management to see out the 2007 season in style with a party and presentation of trophies at BMW's home base on Saturday.

"This event is primarily our way of saying thank you to the drivers, teams, sponsors and journalists who have been with us at the race tracks throughout the year," explains BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen. "This time we have gathered outside our own front door to make use of BMW Welt, our new car delivery centre."

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Chrysler's Swivel ‘n Go Feature a Hit

by Jason Vines, Chrysler Communications

Somebody asked us today on the sales conference call about sales of the Swivel ’n Go seat system in the new Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans.

We promised we’d get that figure, and so far, the take rate of Swivel ‘n Go is very good, 31 percent through October. We’ll update the figures with November results when we have them available.

Swivel ’n Go offers second-row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row with a removable table that installs between the two rows.

Ford launches new Focus in Europe

SAARLOUIS, Germany – Production of the new generation of Ford Focus models got underway today at the Ford plant in Saarlouis.

The first car in the new series was driven off the production line by Joachim Rippel, Saarland Minister for Economic Affairs.

Previewed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September, the new Ford Focus will go on sale across Europe from early 2008.

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Eastside Subaru Celebrates Grand Opening of Signature Facility

Kirkland, WA -- Executives from Eastside Subaru and Subaru of America, Inc., along with distinguished local officials and special guests celebrated the Grand Opening Ceremony of the new Eastside Subaru signature facility on Friday, November 30.

The new facility features the latest interior and exterior designs of the Subaru Signature Facility Program with modern, updated materials and provides an enhanced customer experience consistent with the redesigned Subaru product line, the strongest in the brand's history.

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Porsche plans new painting plant at Zuffenhausen HQ

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart is planning to build a new painting plant at its headquarters in Zuffenhausen.

Representatives from the Porsche construction department today briefed the committee for the environment and technology in a meeting of the Stuttgart municipal council on the company’s plans. The sports car manufacturer will invest approximately 200 million euros in the project.

The new facility is to be built on the Dürr AG site as a direct extension of Porsche plant 1, parallel to the embankment located there.

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Ford, GM Will Cut Output In Early '08

Chrysler, Ford and Toyota all posted virtually flat sales results for November compared with a year ago, and General Motors saw an 11% decline, in large part because it walked away from more fleet business. As a result, GM and Ford will slash North American production for the first three months of '08--GM by 11%; Ford by 7%.

"Consumer confidence is at a two-year low, and we have some uncertainty in housing and mortgage markets, which perhaps is delaying some consumers from their car purchases," says Bob Carter, group vice president and gm for Toyota and Scion. Also, rising gas prices seem to weigh on sales of trucks and SUVs.

Relatively fuel-efficient models provided bright spots for automakers. Ford's Edge is on track to exceed its target of selling 120,000 vehicles this year. GM officials were happy to announce that sales of the redesigned Malibu jumped 40%. Truck-heavy Chrysler saw overall car sales jump 43% last month, boosting car sales by 7% year-to-date. The Toyota Camry posted a November record, and the Prius hybrid had a sales increase of 109%.

Dodge Invites Two Lucky Lovebirds to Start Their Journey of a Lifetime

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- With this Journey, one loving couple will wed. In honor of the 100th anniversary of the Chicago Auto Show and the launch of the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, Dodge is proposing that couples register for a chance to tie the knot on the auto show floor and start their “Journey” of a lifetime as husband and wife.

As part of the “Dodge Journey of a Lifetime” contest, Dodge will select one car-loving couple to win an all-expense paid wedding ceremony to take place on Valentine’s Day and an all-new 2009 Dodge Journey.

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Columbia Teens Perform for Country Music Star Taylor Swift at 'Holiday Holla' Event

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- The local team of Christine Shelton and Gwendolynn Strobel, both 17, has been selected as a finalist in a contest that challenges teens to rewrite and perform traditional holiday carols with new, catchy lyrics about smart driving.

Keep the Drive -- a teen-led smart driving movement funded by The Allstate Foundation -- created the "Holiday Holla" contest in hopes of raising awareness of the No. 1 killer of teens -- car crashes -- during the holiday season, which is a deadly timeframe for teen drivers. There were 272 crash deaths involving teen drivers, ages 13-19, in South Carolina in 2005 and 2006, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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Hyundai Reports Strong November Sales, Up 12%

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai Motor America today reported a November sales increase of 12 percent over a year ago, led by Santa Fe and Sonata, both up 41 percent for the month.

Additionally, the Accent, one of the company's ultra low emission vehicles (ULEV) that delivers up to 37 miles per gallon, saw sales rise 19 percent. In total, the company sold 31,883 vehicles for the month, compared with 28,417 a year ago.

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Mazda Reports November Sales Up 1%

IRVINE, Calif. -- Following three consecutive months of double-digit sales increases, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported a 1.0 percent decrease in sales for November with 20,580 vehicles sold. Mazda's year-to-date sales remain strong with 271,181 units sold, accounting for a 9.0 percent increase.

"Housing uncertainties, rising fuel prices and sagging consumer confidence all year long have finally conspired to slow Mazda's winning pace," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO.

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Toyota Seeks Nominations for $1.12 Million in College Scholarships

LOS ANGELES -- Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., (TMS) is searching the United States for 100 of the brightest, most community- minded high school seniors.

Those chosen to represent the 2008 Toyota Community Scholars class will share in a total award of $1.12 million in college scholarships. "We are seeking students who have outstanding academic records, are effective leaders, and have a well documented record of service both within and outside the school setting," said TMS President Jim Lentz.

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VW uses high-tech visualization software for manufacturing efficiency

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Dassault Systèmes, a world leader in 3D and Product Lifecycle Management solutions, announced that its DELMIA Human software is being used by Volkswagen AG to ergonomically design its human assembly line functions.

The software’s prototyping capability provides communication between designers, engineers and operators to maximize the efficiency and speed of human motion in a manufacturing situation.

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Toyota Highlander Rated Tops Among Three-Row SUVs

Buick Enclave also impresses, Ford Taurus X improves; New Chrysler minivans disappoint

YONKERS, N.Y. -- The redesigned Toyota Highlander received top scores in a new Consumer Reports test of four midsized three-row SUVs, though it did not earn the organization's Recommended designation. Still, the Highlander now tops a field of 14 similar vehicles. The Buick Enclave and Ford Taurus X didn't score as well in this test, but both bested the Subaru Tribeca.

In a test extra, the new Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans proved disappointing.

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Japanese Cars Continue to Dominate Car-Owner Satisfaction Survey

South Korean Cars Make First Appearance on CR's Most Satisfying List; Domestic Models Gain Ground in Family and Luxury/Upscale Categories for the First Time in Five Years

YONKERS, N.Y. -- Japanese vehicles continue their domination over domestic and European brands in Consumer Reports' Annual Car Owner Satisfaction Survey. Of the 39 car models that made Consumer Reports' latest Most Satisfying car list, 18 toted Japanese nameplates with 10 of those built by Toyota.

For the fourth straight year, the Toyota Prius hybrid was identified by respondents as the most satisfying of any vehicle, with 92 percent of Prius owners indicating they would definitely buy one again. Following closely, were the BMW 335i coupe/convertible and Porsche Boxster, which drew scores of 91 and 90 respectively.

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AAA Colorado Selects GreenRoad for Teen Driver Safety Study

REDWOOD SHORES, Calif. -- GreenRoad Technologies, Inc. (http://www.greenroadtech.com/), a leader in driver safety technologies, today announced that AAA Colorado has selected GreenRoad Safety Center for a study to help improve teen driver safety.

During the six-month study, Safety Center will be installed in 200 AAA Colorado member teen drivers' cars, with the goal of identifying and reducing risky driving behavior. AAA Colorado's goal is to promote driving safety among parents and teens by providing a tool that shows how teens are driving, but does not invade their privacy or monitor where they are driving.

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Eight Winter Car Care Tips

FAIRFAX, Va. -- The sight of your white breath just after leaving your house is usually a good sign to head back inside and grab a hat to protect yourself from the cold. Similarly, when cold weather hits and you start seeing harmless, steamy, white exhaust from your car, it’s usually a good sign that you should protect your car from the cold.

“Cars and cold don’t get along,” says Jim MacPherson, who writes for The Hartford Courant, has served as an expert on driving for Inside Edition and hosts a car-care radio show on WTIC-AM in Connecticut.

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December 3, 2007

Chrysler November Sales Down 2%

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC dealers delivered 161,088 new vehicles to U.S. customers in November 2007, down 2 percent compared with a year ago. All sales figures are reported as unadjusted.

“Despite consumer concerns, Chrysler LLC sales are off only 2 percent showing customers are still purchasing quality and value. High fuel prices and falling home prices continue to impact vehicle sales in November which remain below trend,” said Darryl Jackson, Vice President – U.S. Sales. “We remain optimistic moving into December due to the growing availability of new models, including Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan and the Jeep Liberty.”

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Volkswagen names new customer care officer

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. President and CEO, Stefan Jacoby, today announced the appointment of Matthias Seidl as Director/ Customer Care, effective January 1, 2008.

In this new role, Seidl will direct all United States customer care center initiatives for the Volkswagen Group and will report directly to President and CEO Jacoby.

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Ford ends rally season with 1-2 in Wales

FIA World Rally champions* BP-Ford ended the 2007 campaign in perfect style by claiming first and second on Rally GB in Wales today.

Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen led from start to finish to score their third victory of the season in a Ford Focus RS World Rally Car. Team-mates Marcus Grönholm and Timo Rautiainen were second in another Focus RS on their 150th and final WRC start before retirement.

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Mitsubishi November Sales Up 13.3%, Turnaround Working

Mitsubishi 2007 Sales Through November Exceed Entire 2006 Total

CYPRESS, Calif. -- Mitsubishi Motors announced today that calendar year-to-date (CYTD) sales reached 123,089 as of the end of November, a 13.3% increase compared to the first eleven months of 2006 and already more than the entire 2006 full-year total of 118,558.

November sales this year were 7,983, a decrease of 13.8 percent compared to the 9,256 units sold in November 2006.

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Cadillac to enter Australian market in 2008

Cadillac CTS to be the first Cadillac sold in Australia in 4th Quarter 2008; Cadillac brand continues to expand into global markets

DETROIT– Cadillac announced today that the all-new CTS will be the first Cadillac sold in Australia when the luxury brand makes it debut there in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Cadillac is in the midst of a global expansion, with a growing portfolio of luxury vehicles that aim to compete at the highest levels in markets around the world.

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Porsche Reports Second-Best November Sales

Cayenne Sales Up 62 Percent

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 November sales of 2,662 units in the United States, representing the second-best November results in the U.S. and an increase of two percent over the same period last year when sales were 2,611.

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Porsche Reports November Sales up for Canada

Cayenne Climbs 22 Percent

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 sales of 114 for the month of November in Canada, an increase of 2 percent over last November sales of 112. Year-to-date sales of 1,877 also saw an increase of 6 percent over the same period last year when sales were 1,771.

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Mercedes-Benz Records Best November Sales Ever

MONTVALE, N.J. -- Mercedes-Benz USA achieved its highest November sales volume on record with 22,819 units sold for the month, a 3.4 percent increase over last November's 22,079 record volume.

This brings MBUSA's year-to-date sales total to 225,904 units - a 2.8 percent increase over the same period last year - which keeps Mercedes-Benz on track for accomplishing its 14th consecutive year of annual sales growth.

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BMW, MINI Report 4.2% Increase in November Sales

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 26,985 vehicles, an increase of 4.2 percent over the 25,889 vehicles sold in November 2006.

The BMW Group also increased its year-to-date sales volume to 302,079 vehicles, up 7.8 percent, compared to 280,186 vehicles in the same period of 2006.

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Kia Announces Record November Sales, Up 8.9%

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced record November sales of 24,177 units, an 8.9-percent increase over the same period last year. Leading the way for the brand were Optima, Spectra and Sportage, three popular models in the Kia lineup.

KMA remains on pace for another annual sales record with year-to-date sales of 281,405 units, a 6.5-percent increase over the same period last year.

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Honda November Sales Up 4.7%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted record November sales of 111,431 Honda and Acura vehicles, up 4.7 percent*, surpassing the previous November 2006 record of 106,446, the company announced today.

American Honda year-to-date sales increased 2.7 percent* to 1,419,750. Honda Division year-to-date sales increased 4.8 percent to 1,257,228.

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Acura Reports November Sales Down 24.9%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- In the fiercely competitive luxury car market, Acura division sales totaled 12,910 for the month of November and 162,522 year-to-date*, the company announced today.

Year-to-date sales of the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle are up 9.6-percent with total sales of 52,700.

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Volvo Reports November Sales Down 11%

IRVINE, Calif. -- Volvo Cars of North America, LLC reports sales in the United States of 8,243 units for November. Compared to the same period last year, this represents an 11 percent decrease.

Overall in North America (United States, Puerto Rico, Canada and Mexico), sales were 8,904 units representing a decrease of 11.1 percent. Volvo Canada sales were down 15.5 percent, with 454 units sold, while Volvo sales in Mexico trailed last year by 8.4 percent, selling 207 units.

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Subaru Impreza sales up 9%; Subaru Tribeca up 18%

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported November sales of 14,868 units. Sales of the all-new 2008 Subaru Impreza posted a November record up 9 percent over the same period last year, while the redesigned Subaru Tribeca also posted a double digit gain.

"We are pleased to see that the new 2008 Subaru models continue to be well received by the market," said Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "We expect to see this momentum carry on through the end of the year."

Continue reading "Subaru Impreza sales up 9%; Subaru Tribeca up 18%"

GM Reports November Sales Down 11%

DETROIT - After three consecutive monthly increases, GM dealers in the United States delivered 263,654 vehicles in November, down 11 percent compared with a year ago, reflecting continuing reductions in daily rental sales and softening industry demand.

GM's retail car deliveries increased, based on the strength of the all-new Chevrolet Malibu, 2008 Cadillac CTS and fuel-efficient Chevrolet Aveo, Cobalt, Pontiac G5 and G6.

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Firestone Elected to Goodyear Board

AKRON, Ohio -- James A. Firestone, president, Xerox North America, has been elected to the Board of Directors of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE:GT) .

"Jim has a wealth of managerial experience with a diverse group of respected companies, including Xerox, IBM and American Express," said Goodyear Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert J. Keegan. "We are confident that he will contribute significantly to Goodyear's continued growth."

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Posted by Frank at 2:45 PM | Email to a friend | Permalink| Filed under Auto Marketing | Auto News

LA Rolls Out Green Carpet For Chevy Volt Concept

LOS ANGELES - General Motors' extended-range electric vehicle concept arrives in Southern California on Thursday, giving Angelenos a rare, up close preview of the highly-anticipated Chevy Volt. The vehicle will be on display at hot spot locations throughout Los Angeles from December 6 through December 11.

Los Angeles is one of only four U.S. cities to host the Chevy Volt around town, providing an opportunity for locals to see the car of the future.

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Ford Breaks Year-Long Sales Decline

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Continued growth in crossover sales and increased demand for hybrids, fuel-efficient cars and Ford's industry-exclusive SYNC in-car connectivity technology drove Ford Motor Company's sales in November. Company sales totaled 182,951, up 0.4 percent versus a year ago. November marked the first sales increase following 12 months of declines.

"It is encouraging to see our newest cars, crossovers, hybrids and industry-first SNYC technology resonating with customers," said Mark Fields, president, The Americas. "Continuing to deliver more quality products that people really want and carefully gauging customer demand in the months ahead will help ensure we stay on track with our plan."

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Nissan Announces November Sales Up 6.1%

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) (NASDAQ:NSANY) today reported sales of 80,683 units in November, up 6.1 percent from the prior year. Nissan Division sales increased by 6.8 percent over last year. Infiniti Division sales increased by 2.1 percent versus the prior year.

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Toyota Reports Flat November Sales

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever November sales of 197,189 vehicles, an increase of 0.3 percent over last November.

"Rising fuel prices and sliding home values delivered a one-two punch this month," said Jim Lentz, TMS executive vice president. "But the industry's not down for the count. Demand for fresh, more fuel-efficient products continues to show strength."

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Suzuki November Sales Down 6%

BREA, Calif. -- American Suzuki Motor Corp. today announced automobile sales of 5,987 units in November, achieving the second-best November sales volume in company history.

Year-to-date sales stand at 93,673 vehicles, maintaining the company’s pace for its fourth consecutive year-over-year sales increase and second successive year of 100,000-plus units sold in the U.S.

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Audi reports November sales down 1.1%

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - Audi of America, Inc. announced today that its record-setting sales pace continues. The company is tracking at 85,004 vehicles sold in 2007, which is 8.7% above last year.

Sales for the month of November totaled 9,104 vehicles, a decrease of 1.1% from last year’s figures.

Continue reading "Audi reports November sales down 1.1%"

Informed Drivers: The Prescription For A Healthy Vehicle

GRAND BLANC, Mich. – The Internet provides readily available and often valuable information for do-it-yourselfs and self-diagnosis-ers. This trend is particularly prevalent among automotive consumers who are searching online for both auto sales and service.

A recent study* by Compete Inc., commissioned by Google Inc., revealed that 75 percent of those who research parts and services indicate they are using the Web more today to research compared to two years ago.

Continue reading "Informed Drivers: The Prescription For A Healthy Vehicle"

Volkswagen sales up 3.6% in November

Compact Models Contribute to November Growth

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced November 2007 sales of 17,689 Volkswagen brand vehicles. This represents an increase of 3.6 percent over the 2006 figure of 17,082 units.

Continue reading "Volkswagen sales up 3.6% in November"

Statement From Rick Wagoner, General Motors CEO Regarding Energy Bill

"There are tough, new CAFE standards contained in the energy bill before Congress that pose a significant technical and economic challenge to the industry. But, it's a challenge that GM is prepared to put forth its best effort to meet with an array of engineering, research and development resources. We will continue our aggressive pursuit of advance technologies that will deliver more products with more energy solutions to our customers."

Continue reading "Statement From Rick Wagoner, General Motors CEO Regarding Energy Bill"

Toyota Updates Progress on Environmental Goals

New York, NY -- Toyota today issued its first update on progress toward the goals and targets in the company’s new 2011 Environmental Action Plan (EAP).

The 2007 North America Environmental Report details Toyota’s efforts in six key areas of impact: Environmental Management, Energy and Climate Change, Air Quality, Substances of Concern, Recycling and Improved Resource Use, and Cooperation with Society.

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Richard Westbrook wins a Porsche Carrera

Stuttgart -- On the occasion of the Essen Motor Show British racing driver Richard Westbrook received a very special prize for winning this year’s Porsche Mobil1 Supercup: In recognition of his victory in the world’s fastest international cup trophy, 32-year-old Westbrook took over the keys to his new Porsche Carrera.

Developing 325 bhp, this outstanding sports car is a look-alike resembling the VIP car in the 2007 Supercup season raced by prominent guests of Porsche AG in selected races.

Continue reading "Richard Westbrook wins a Porsche Carrera"

Clinton Climate Initiative Supports Volvo's Environmental Alternatives

STOCKHOLM, Sweden -- Former US President Bill Clinton’s climate initiative has chosen Volvo as its partner with regard to hybrid buses and efficient bus systems.

Together with the Clinton Climate Initiative, Volvo’s solutions can contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions pursued by 40 of the world’s large cities.

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Car and Driver Releases Annual 10 Best List

General Motors Makes Strong Showing with Three Cars

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Car and Driver, the world's number one automotive enthusiast magazine, today announced the winners of the 26th annual 10Best cars sold in America. Winners will be featured in the January 2008 issue of Car and Driver, which will be on newsstands December 4, 2007.

The following are the 2008 "10Best" winners (in alphabetical order), followed by the number of times each model has made the list:

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China Auto Sales Rose 24.46% in First Nine Months of 2007

DUBLIN, Ireland Research and Markets has announced the Chinese auto market is continuing to grow strongly.

Total auto sales in China rose 24.46% in the first nine months of 2007 to 6.46m units, with output up 22.78% at 6.51m units, according to data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM).

Continue reading "China Auto Sales Rose 24.46% in First Nine Months of 2007"

Posted by Frank at 7:41 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink| Filed under Auto News | Industry Statistics

December 2, 2007

MINI and RIDEMAKERZ Team Up To Debut Smallest MINI Ever

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. -- MINI USA and RIDEMAKERZ have teamed up to create the smallest MINI ever -- the RIDEMAKERZ MINI -- a 12- inch, completely customizable toy replica of the iconic MINI Cooper S -- and have guaranteed a holiday donation of 2,000 of the new toy MINIs to Toys for Tots -- the companies jointly announced today at an event celebrating the launch of the new MINI RIDE.

Continue reading "MINI and RIDEMAKERZ Team Up To Debut Smallest MINI Ever"

Statement of Automobile Manufacturers Regarding Nationwide U.S. Fuel Economy Standard

Statement of Dave McCurdy, President & CEO, Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers

WASHINGTON -- "The Alliance commends Congressional leaders for reaching agreement on an aggressive, nationwide fuel economy program. This agreement reflects much hard work and tough negotiating by many parties.

Continue reading "Statement of Automobile Manufacturers Regarding Nationwide U.S. Fuel Economy Standard"

Pew Hails Compromise on Fuel Efficiency as a Landmark Victory for all Americans

WASHINGTON -- Phyllis Cuttino, director of the Pew Charitable Trusts Campaign for Fuel Efficiency issued the following statement welcoming the compromise between Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Chairman John Dingell (D-Mich.) for a meaningful increase in fuel efficiency standards to 35 miles per gallon by 2020:

"This is a truly historic agreement, breaking a 30-year Congressional deadlock on mileage standards.

Continue reading "Pew Hails Compromise on Fuel Efficiency as a Landmark Victory for all Americans"

Toyota Statement on Congressional Agreement on Fuel Economy

For attribution to Josephine S. Cooper, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America

WASHINGTON -- Toyota supports the passage of this ground-breaking legislation before the end of the year. Toyota applauds the congressional leadership for reaching agreement and taking this very important step toward establishing new, aggressive nationwide fuel economy standards.

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Portland Teen Named Finalist in Two National Hero Competitions

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Dallas Jessup (15) has been named a finalist in the CNN Hero competition and also a finalist in the Volvo for Life Awards competition as a Youth Hero. Jessup is recognized for her work in protecting teenage girls from abduction and sexual assault.

For the CNN Hero award Jessup is among 18 honorees in 6 categories of cause-related work from among 7,000 nominations. She's now competing for the nation's top CNN Hero.

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Car Buyer's Notebook

Recent Stories

Topics

December 8, 2007

Ramble On or Off-Road: Limited Edition Led Zeppelin Jeep Patriot

December 8, 2007

Toyota Unveils Violin-playing Robot

BMW Group on track for global sales record in 2007

Freedom Calls: U.S. Soliders in Iraq Reconnect with Families via Chrysler Video Conferencing

Ford links Pop Phenom Chris Brown with SYNC

Toyota Develops World-class Driving Simulator

Toyota to break ground on Indiana Visitors Center

VW's Double: “Dakar“ start and “Bundesliga” duel in Wolfsburg

Suzuki Debuts Custom L-R-G Hayabusa

Bentley Showcases the Art of Design at 2007 Art Basel Miami Beach

Kia Names John Crowe New Vice President of Service

Carroll Shelby Licensing Responds to Comments by Car Club

O'Brien Auto Group Announces Pending Purchase of Salem's DeLon Auto Center

December 7, 2007

Lakers Star A.C. Green to give away free car at LA dealer

Coca-Cola Extends NASCAR Sponsorship for Ten Years

Toyota Expects Robotics To Become A Key Business

Regional GM Dealers Pick Their Ad Shops

Playboy Crowns the Audi R8 Hottest Car of 2008

High Gas Prices Have Consumers Searching for Hybrids

Hanover Insurance Announces 8.5% Rate Decrease for Motorcycle Policies

Volkswagen in the Formula 3 Euro Series

Ford' s 2008 small car entry in Focus

Mercedes DIESOTTO concept wins "Safety and Technology Award"

Ford statement on House Energy Bill

Video: Chrysler Wrap up for December 7, 2007

Ford recalls 1.17 million vehicles for engine flaw

Seven 2008 Chrysler Vehicles Earn Five Stars in Government Crash Tests

Toyota Statement on Passage of Cafe Legislation

Pew Campaign Calls on Senate to Act in Wake of Energy Bill Vote

Michigan Consumers to Save About $1 Million by Using AAA Member Discounts

December 6, 2007

Chrysler makes video calling available to Iraq soldier's families

Goodyear Suggests a Tread Check Before 'Dashing Through the Snow'

Report: Toyota Ranks Highest in Retaining New-Vehicle Buyers for 2nd Year

Toyota Announces Pricing for 2008 Sequoia

N.Y. Company Enjoys Success with Environmentally-Friendly De-Icer

Report: Portable Nav Owners Satisfied, Despite Problems

Only one month left to vote in the Volvo for life Awards

Senator Elizabeth Dole Honored for Air Bag Leadership

Ford Shelby Mustang Co-Stars in Legend

2008 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible

Playboy Joins Mazda MX-5 Cup Program

National Insurance Crime Bureau Introduces Vehicle Location and Recovery Program

Chrysler Financial Employees Support Denver Food Bank

Chrysler Partners with ADESA to Benefit Used Vehicle Dealers

San Fran Airport Wins Award To Convert Airport Shuttles to Run on Hythane

First Photos: All-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Audi Sponsors Design Miami/2007

Chrysler November Certified Pre-owned Sales Down 2%

VW Touareg gets new drivers for Dakar Rally

BMW Museum offers children's workshops

MINI SUV to be built in Austria

Mercedes global sales set record in 2007

Nissan Reports Record November Sales in Europe

Domestics Still Hold Crown in New Truck Market

Report: BMW Ranks Highest in Initial Quality in South Africa

General Motors and Indian Institute of Technology expand collaboration

December 5, 2007

Mercedes-Benz 2008 C-Class Stars in Nic Cage Chase Scene

Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Racing through the Streets of London

Video: smart fortwo to Launch in USA, January 2008

Jonas Brothers supports Chevy's Green Vehicle Line-up at RenCen

Pontiac Announces Pricing for 2009 Vibe

General Motors' Flint Tool and Die Plant Recycles and Reuses all Plant Wastes

Orders flood in for 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Mercedes builds a new Popemobile

New Aerokit for the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupé

Ford earns clean vehicle award

Toyota Teaching Teens

LoJack Offers Timely Theft Prevention Tips

Enerpulse Releases New Pulse Plug for BMW, Mercedes and Chrysler Automobiles

Toyota Electric Power Steering Gets The Fluid Out

AOCA Uncovers Misleading Warranty Notice Scheme in Canada

New 'Teen Driving' Alerts Taking Off Nationally