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September 29, 2006

Chevrolet Launches New 2007 Silverado "Our Country. Our Truck." Marketing Campaign

Featuring John Mellencamp's new song, "Our Country"

DETROIT, Mich. – Today, Chevrolet announced plans for a multi-media marketing campaign in support of their all-new, 2007 Silverado full-size pickup. The integrated campaign employs both traditional and non-traditional elements and debuts with high-impact print inserts in USA Today on Sep. 29 followed by television spots on Sep. 30.

An extension of the "An American Revolution" campaign, the new Silverado advertising, themed “Our Country. Our Truck.”, embodies the spirit of the American pickup owner and reinforces Chevy’s positioning as the maker of the most dependable, longest lasting trucks on the road.

“The research behind this new truck confirmed what we’ve seen for decades. Chevrolet buyers remain hard-working, loyal and dependable. While they would never say so, the people who know Silverado owners see them as ‘everyday heroes,’ they are family men as well as firemen,” says Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager. “This new marketing campaign celebrates the connection our truck buyers have to their families and their country, while acknowledging that they want and need a truck as dependable as they are,” continued Peper. “American pickup owners recognize that we have a proud legacy building trucks, we’ve been doing it for 89 years, and we’re proud to deliver an all-new Silverado that will once again set the benchmark with segment-leading power and fuel economy,” Peper said.

The advertising will feature new music from American music legend John Mellencamp. Mellencamp’s, "Our Country" anthem combines the power of his convictions with the essence of the American experience to provide the perfect backdrop for the new Silverado campaign. “ About a year ago, I wrote this song to tell a story about some of the challenges our country faces and how our beliefs and ideals can help us meet them. This partnership with Chevy – an American company that is creating jobs and supporting our communities – makes perfect sense for a song that is all about standing up for the working people who are the backbone of our nation,” said Mellencamp. The agreement to use Mellencamp's song runs at least through 2007.

The campaign was developed by Campbell-Ewald, one of Chevrolet’s agencies of record. Bill Ludwig, vice chairman, chief creative officer at Campbell-Ewald said that while the agency was working on a campaign to position the new Silverado as the pure American truck, John Mellencamp shared a demo of his new song “Our Country” with him. “I knew the minute I heard the song that it would be the music for the next epic Silverado campaign,” Ludwig said. “We hope that ’Our Country. Our Truck.’ will inspire people to think, ’Yeah. These are the bruises and scars that have shaped our nation, and we have rebuilt ourselves spiritually, emotionally and physically,’” he continued.

Chevrolet’s marketing efforts kick-off at the State Fair of Texas on September 27, where Silverado 200,000 Mile Club members will help unveil the all-new, Silverado to the public. From there, a caravan of Silverados from across the generations, led by its newest member, will embark on a 3-day journey to Camden, New Jersey, site of this year’s Farm Aid concert event. Chevy Silverado’s “Drive for Farm Aid” will make three stops for street parties in Nashville, Indianapoli s and Pittsburgh. Along the way, the caravan will raise funds for Farm Aid and collect non-perishable food items. Farm Aid is an organization whose mission is to support local farmers and John Mellencamp is one of its founding fathers.

Silverado’s launch campaign will include sponsorship of iconic media properties like the World Series and the Country Music Awards. Chevy will also present NBC’s new Sunday Night Football in America with a 90-second opening spot celebrating America ’s passion for the game.

The campaign will also feature a 28-minute infomercial narrated by Football great, Howie Long, and custom-published 24-page print onserts, an automotive industry first, that will be included in “polybags” along with popular magazine titles like Motor Trend,Field and Stream and Popular Science. These longer-format market pieces, along with in-depth information available online at chevy.com, will provide the comprehensive product review that in-market truck buyers are looking for.

“We’re excited about the truly integrated campaign we’ve put together,” Peper notes. “We’re using some new ways to engage consumers and share the Silverado story, but all campaign components come together around the theme of the everyday American hero and his truck.”

Communications directed to Hispanic consumers are an important part of the new Silverado’s marketing launch and dedicated Hispanic advertising will break on October 21 during the World Series. The campaign recognizes the strong contributions Hispanics have made to American culture over the years. Information about the Hispanic campaign will be shared at a later date.

About Chevrolet Silverado

Silverado is Chevy’s highest volume vehicle. In 2005 Chevrolet sold 705,000 Silverado pickups. The all-new, 2007 Silverado leads the light duty, full-size pickup segment in power and fuel economy. In 2006, Chevrolet Silverado won the “ Highest Ranked Large Pickup in Initial Quality” in J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study. There are over 4,000 Chevrolet dealers in the U.S. to service and sell the all-new, 2007 Silverado.

Posted by Frank at 4:09 PM

General Motors Contributes Fuel Cell Vehicle To U.S. Postal Service's Irvine, California Fleet

General Motors has donated a GM HydroGen3 fuel cell minivan to be added to the U.S. Postal Service’s Irvine, California, fleet—marking the first time a fuel cell vehicle will be used for mail delivery on the West Coast.

The new vehicle is part of an extended agreement between GM and the U.S. Postal Service to continue to test and validate the hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system in real world driving conditions.

Posted by Frank at 4:05 PM

Chevy Introduces All-New 2007 Silverado With Cross-Country Drive To Farm Aid

Four Concert Stops Planned During 2,800-Mile Trip From Texas to New Jersey

DETROIT – Introducing the newest generation of the longest-lasting pickup truck on the road calls for something big. That’s why Chevrolet is launching the new 2007 Silverado with a 2,800-mile Chevy Silverado Drive for Farm Aid, highlighted by four free concerts featuring top country musicians and culminating at the Farm Aid 2006 Presented by Silk Soymilk concert in Camden, N.J., on Sept. 30.

Kicking off with a concert featuring Montgomery Gentry at the State Fair of Texas Fairgrounds near Dallas on Sept. 27, the Silverado Drive for Farm Aid will present concerts featuring Phil Vassar in Nashville on Sept. 28 and Montgomery Gentry in Indianapolis on Sept. 28 and Pittsburgh on Sept. 29before making its final stop at Farm Aid. Visitors to the Nashville, Indianapolis and Pittsburgh concerts also can enter to win a trip for two to Nashville for the 40th Annual Country Music Association Awards on Nov. 6. One winner will be selected on Oct. 6 from each of the Nashville, Indianapolis and Pittsburgh concerts.

“We can’t think of a better way to introduce the all-new 2007 Silverado than to drive the trucks through the heartlandto enjoy some great country music and help raise money for Farm Aid,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “The Silverado, family farms and country music share deep, strong roots in America, and we want to celebrate that legacy. By lending our support to Farm Aid, we’re helping to preserve family farm-centered agriculture in America.”

Concerts in the Silverado Drive for Farm Aid are free, but concertgoers are invited to bring a non-perishable food item or make cash donations to Farm Aid.

“From Texas to New Jersey, the Silverado Drive for Farm Aid will help raise funds for Farm Aid and help promote food from family farms,” said Carolyn Mugar, executive director of Farm Aid. “The vistas of fields and farms that America sees from the highway constantly remind us that food from family farms depends on keeping families on the land.”

Along with a chance to see and experience the all-new 2007 Chevy Silverado, concertgoers can view Chevy pickups dating back to the 1930s that are part of the Chevy Silverado Drive for Farm Aid. In addition, members of the Chevy Silverado 200K Mile Club have been invited to join the trip.

“We are excited to help launch the new Silverado,” said Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry. Band mate Eddie Montgomery added: “ Supporting family farmers has always been important to us. Our farmers feed the world, and it is important to maintain that tradition.”

About Chevrolet Silverado
Silverado is Chevy’s highest-volume vehicle, with 2005 sales of 705,000. The all-new, 2007 Silverado leads the light-duty, full-size pickup segment in power and fuel economy. In 2006, Chevrolet Silverado was the highest-ranked full-size pickup in J.D. Power and Associates’ Initial Quality Study. There are more than 4,000 Chevrolet dealers in the U.S. to service and sell the all-new, 2007 Silverado, which features GM’s exclusive five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

About Chevrolet
Chevrolet is one of America's most well-known and successful automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. In addition, Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $9,995 to $52,000. Offering dynamic yet timeless designs, Chevy owners demand great looks that don’t go out of style, high performance per dollar, and features expected in more expensive vehicles.

Chevrolet’s global headquarters is at the GM Renaissance Center in Detroit. For more information, go to www.chevy.com.

About Farm Aid
Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp organized the first Farm Aid concert in 1985 to raise awareness about the loss of family farms and to raise funds to keep farm families on their land. Dave Matthews joined the Farm Aid Board of Directors in 2001. Farm Aid raises awareness about the critical role of family farms and has raised more than $29 million to build and strengthen family farm food production. Between 1985 and 2005, 80 percent of Farm Aid’s total expenditures was spent on programs to benefit family farmers, exceeding charity watchdog standards. Through public education, program activities and grants, Farm Aid promotes food from family farms and sustainable agriculture, fights factory farms, advocates for fair farm prices and provides disaster assistance and credit counseling to farm families.

Posted by Frank at 3:57 PM

First Award Winner of No. 29 Goodwrench Expertise Challenge Announced

Grand Blanc, Mich. – Kevin Harvick’s recent performances in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series have paid off in more ways than one.

By virtue of his win at the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 on Sept. 9 - which clinched Harvick's status in the 2006 Chase for the NEXTEL Cup - GM Goodwrench and Chevrolet are awarding Chris Heikkuri of Holly, Mich., an all new 2007 Chevy Avalanche today at Al Serra Chevrolet in Grand Blanc, Mich., as part of the No. 29 Goodwrench Expertise Challenge.

“I’m always happy to share a race win with our loyal fans, so it’s pretty cool that we can give Chris a brand new Chevy”, said Harvick. “There are still plenty more Avalanches to give away if I can win one more of the Challenge races. Hopefully, we can make it happen.”

In addition to his four NEXTEL Cup Series wins this season, which elevated him to the top of the point’s standings for the first time in his career earlier this month, Harvick is also dominating the NASCAR Busch Series standings with six wins in 2006, leading to a season where he’s been at the top of the standings since the second race of the season.

“Not only has the No. 29 team begun the Chase in strong fashion, they’ve also allowed us to award a 2007 Chevy Avalanche to Chris as our first Expertise Challenge winner”, said Jim Moloney, general director of marketing, GM Service and Parts Operations. “Kevin and the entire Richard Childress Racing organization have done an outstanding job this season. We know the team is hungry for more wins during the Chase, so we’re hoping Kevin can finish up front again and complete the Expertise Challenge for us on his way to capturing the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup championship.”

With a second race win by the No. 29 GM Goodwrench team in one of the five remaining Expertise Challenge races, 29 grand prize packages will be awarded including: a 2007 Chevy Avalanche, a $1,000 GM vehicle maintenance certificate from Goodwrench and a trunk full of Reese’s products.

Remaining Expertise Challenge races in 2006 include: the Banquet 400 at Kansas Speedway on Oct. 1; the Bank of America 500 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway on Oct. 14; the Dickies 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Nov. 5; the Checker Auto Parts 500 at Phoenix International Raceway on Nov. 12; and the Ford 400 at Homestead Miami Speedway on Nov. 19.

Following a second Challenge race win, GM Goodwrench will also establish a $200,000 scholarship fund to encourage young men and women to pursue careers as automotive technicians. The GM Goodwrench Scholarship Fund will be used to provide tuition assistance to Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES) high school students who choose to continue their automotive technical education by attending GM Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP) colleges.

Fans can participate in the Expertise Challenge by visiting a participating Chevrolet dealership to obtain an entry ticket with an official promotion code or visit goodwrench.com/expert to obtain a one-time virtual promotion code. There is no purchase necessary to enter or win. Complete program rules and award details are available at: www.goodwrench.com/expert.

Plus, all Expertise Challenge participants and GM customers can celebrate Kevin Harvick's hot streak with a Championship Service Offer. Through the remainder of the 2006 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series championship competition, any visitor to www.Goodwrench.com can download a $10 mail-in rebate for customer-paid Goodwrench service on a GM vehicle from a participating GM Goodwrench dealership in the United States .

GM Goodwrench is the service brand for GM vehicles - Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, HUMMER, Cadillac. With dealerships located nationwide and over 60,000 professionally trained service personnel, the GM Goodwrench network is one of the largest automotive full-service providers in the industry. GM Goodwrench technicians receive specialized training from General Motors to provide expert care for GM cars and trucks. Genuine GM replacement parts are manufactured to the same specifications of the GM vehicle. For more information, visit the GM Goodwrench web site at www.goodwrench.com.

Posted by Frank at 3:55 PM

The Chromin' Empire is Conquering Fashionable Vehicle Owners Everywhere

DETROIT - Just as a gleaming piece of jewelry can transform an outfit from drab to fab, an increasing number of vehicle owners are using chrome to personalize their cars and trucks and make a rolling fashion statement.

That statement can be as subtle as the simple, elegant addition of a few polished chrome door handles; or as bold as a bumper-to-bumper, heavy-metal extravaganza of sparkling, 22-inch plus-sized wheels; grille inserts; tubular assist steps; brush grille guards; fuel filler door covers; exhaust tips and more.

"The beauty of chrome is that you can dress up your vehicle to fit your taste, your style and your budget, whether you drive an economy sedan, a family SUV or a high-performance roadster," said Nancy Phillippart, executive director, GM Accessories, which sells a complete range of accessories through the Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, HUMMER, Pontiac, Saab and Saturn brands. "Chrome can be a great, cost-effective way to personalize a vehicle."

Sales of chrome accessories are in overdrive. According to Phillippart, GM's chrome accessories business jumped 73 percent from 2004 to 2005.

"The advantage of GM's chrome wheels and accessories," said Phillippart, "is that an accessory design integration process unique to GM ensures the most accurate fit and finish and most tailored appearance, attributes customers want when personalizing a vehicle." For more on GM's accessories design studio, click here.

Chrome sweet chrome

After years of being relegated to the automotive has-been junkyard, the resurgence in chrome is due, in part, to style influencers such as athletes, celebrity tuners and rap artists who began using chrome to add "bling" - slang terminology for jewelry - to their production vehicles, said Kip Wasenko, GM director of specialty vehicle design.

Wasenko said the use of gleaming metal finishes to lend exclusivity to a vehicle dates to the early 1900s, when high-end coach builders used brass and, later, nickel brightwork embellishments.

In 1929, one of those high-end coach builders, Cadillac, which later became a GM brand, was the first to adopt chrome plating - a technique that goes back to the ancient Romans - as standard on its cars. The 1931 Cadillac V-16, still regarded as one of the finest luxury cars ever built, featured a distinctive chrome wire mesh grille that has influenced countless other grilles since, including those on the current Cadillac V-series performance lineup.

"Chrome may come and go, but it will always be part of our brand heritage," said Wasenko, who expects to see tons of chrome at the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. "It will never really go out of style."

Chrome finishes are achieved by applying a 'plate,' or coat, of metal to a base surface: Louis-Nicholas Vauquelin is credited with discovering chromium oxide in 1797 and preparing the metal itself the following year. But according to historians, the ancient Romans had a head start on Vauquelin, soldering silver plates to articles made of base metals to protect themselves in battle.

The heyday of chrome is considered to be from postwar 1946 through most of the Baby Boom to 1960. After a decade and a half of glorious chrome bumpers; wheel covers; mirror caps; and interior and exterior trim and tail fins, chrome took a back seat in the 1970s when fuel economy regulations forced designers to take weight out of cars and tastes gravitated toward European-inspired body-color and blacked-out trim. Chrome's reputation for being a fussy finish that pitted and peeled didn't help.

Thanks to improvements in the plating and polishing technology, chrome from quality sources can keep a showroom gleam for years if maintained properly.

"When customers purchase chrome wheels and other chrome accessories developed by GM, they can be assured that what they buy is subjected to the same rigorous quality standards as our original equipment parts," said Phillippart.

In fact, because they meet GM's rigorous standards for safety and durability, all accessories offered by GM brands are backed by the promise of a General Motors warranty. Accessories permanently installed on a new GM vehicle at the time of delivery are covered under the GM New Vehicle Limited Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty, and can be included in the financing of the vehicle, making them both convenient and affordable. GM accessories permanently installed by a GM dealer after vehicle purchase are covered for the balance of the new vehicle warranty, and no less than 12 months or 12,000 miles.

GM Accessories' chrome portfolio

Regular and plus-size accessory wheels constitute GM's biggest entry in the chrome market. By the end of 2006, GM will have more than 50 accessory wheel and TPC tire systems for more than 35 GM vehicles. Among GM's accessory wheel customers, chrome wheels are preferred across all segments by a wide margin.

"If you want to make the biggest impact with chrome, it's with big, plus-sized wheels," said Wasenko. "I saw a great-looking Cadillac Escalade the other day with a set of 22-inch chrome wheels - that would have been unheard of five years ago."

GM is a recognized leader in tire and wheel system engineering and development, creating the industry's first and only Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) rating, which helps vehicle owners choose tires designed to function with the vehicle's architecture to provide optimum ride, handling and safety.

GM Accessories wheels follow the same validation guidelines as original equipment wheels. Plus-size wheel and TPC tire systems meet or exceed federal requirements as well as GM's safety objectives. In fact, GM will not sell plus-size wheels if these requirements cannot be met. This provides customers peace of mind in knowing that their vehicle will not only look good, but perform the way it should.

Other GM accessory chrome touches include grille inserts; brush grille guards; fuel doors; mirror caps, door handles; tubular assist steps; molded hood protectors; exhaust tips; interior and exterior trim molding packages and taillamp guards. Availability varies by brand.

Chrome continues to evolve with the latest technology trend being "colored" chrome. Using various development methods, chrome can now be "dyed" or "tinted" with color, to add a distinctive look. Chevrolet's HHR will offer black chrome pieces, including 17-inch wheels, door handles, rear view mirror caps, and a rear beauty bar. These pieces will be available as part of a vehicle option package, or separately as Chevy Accessories.

About GM Accessories

GM sells divisionally branded accessories through its network of Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, Cadillac, GMC, Saturn, Saab and HUMMER dealerships. For more information about product offerings, please visit any GM divisional website (i.e. www.chevy.com, www.pontiac.com) or www.gmaccessorieszone.com.

Posted by Frank at 3:51 PM

Last fan standing drives home the No. 48 Monte Carlo

Ten finalists vie for their chance to win a specially wrapped Monte Carlo opening day of State Fair of Texas

FORT WORTH, Texas - Contestants will vie for an opportunity to win a 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo that will carry the decal package of Team Chevy NASCAR star Jimmie Johnson's No. 48 Lowe's NEXTEL Cup ride. Ten finalists will place their hands on the 2007 Monte Carlo beginning, Friday, September 29, for their chance to drive home the specially wrapped Monte Carlo. The contest is scheduled to begin on the opening day of the State Fair of Texas within the Chevrolet display and Test Drive area located near Gate 11.

The Jimmie Johnson "Hands On" Promotion offers a unique opportunity for one lucky entrant to win a new Chevy Monte Carlo in an endurance contest that culminates with literally a "last person standing" finale. Each finalist will place one designated hand on the car when the contest begins, and they must be standing and in continuous contact with the prize vehicle 24 hours per day, excluding sanctioned breaks. The last person standing with their hand on the '07 Monte Carlo, which has a retail value of $34,500, will take it home.

"I thought keeping my hands on the wheel of the No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet for three or so hours in a Cup race was hard work, but keeping your hand on the car for 24 hours or more will be quite a test of endurance. But considering the grand prize is a 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, it will be well worth it," Johnson said. "With three great partners involved - Lowe's, Chevrolet and Texas Motor Speedway - you know this is going to be a good deal."

For those finalists who do not win the car, each will receive a prize package that consists of a Charbroil commercial grill, $100 Lowe's gift card, 1:24 scale die-cast Team 48 car signed by Johnson and a Team 48 cap.

Posted by Frank at 3:50 PM

Top Ten Fuel Efficient SUVs for 2006

Regardless of whether your mode of transportation is a Schwinn, a Hummer H1, or a pair of worn-out Nikes, fuel-prices are hitting your wallet just like the rest of us.

When gas prices rise, everything else gets more expensive, and when cars start selling like hotcakes in rapidly expanding markets like China and India, demand usually dictates more pain at the pump.

This is especially painful for drivers who need a spacious and roomy vehicle such as SUVs, a ride that is typically unkind in its unquenchable thirst for petrol. Indeed, there are times when a Toyota Prius or a bus pass won’t do, so we’ve compiled a list of ten fuel-efficient, 2006 SUVs that are currently available, all boasting respectable EPA-rated fuel economy figures and more utility than a Little Red Wagon.

Each model on the list achieves at least 24 mpg in mixed driving when mated to an automatic transmission – the transmission type most consumer choose – and is ranked according to our editors’ recommendations and personal choices. According to the EPA, nine of the vehicles get 25 mpg combined or better, so to make this a proper Top 10 list, we voted in our favorite member of the 24-mpg club to round things out. All EPA data is current as of April 2006.

1st Place -- Toyota Rav4

If the name RAV4 brings to mind a small, awkwardly-designed, underpowered cute SUV, it’s time to visit your Toyota dealer to reboot your impression of this capable SUV. Redesigned for 2006, the RAV4 still falls to the feminine side of the gender scale, but it presents a more upscale look compared to the 2005 model and makes the impressive original look like a shop-class experiment.

Behind the sleek sheetmetal is a spacious cabin with seating for up to seven passengers, front- or all-wheel-drive capability, and a choice of powertrains. Base models, starting at a smidge below $22,000, are equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine pushing 166 horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque that’s mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. In front-wheel-drive guise, this fuel-efficient version returns an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined; add four-wheel drive and those figures change to 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. In addition, the base price rises by $1,400 with 4WD.

If that was the end of the story, the 2006 Toyota RAV4 would appear as a competent SUV with impressive fuel efficiency, though a little light on power for some tastes. However, there’s more to this little ‘ute, like an available 3.5-liter V6 pushing 269 horsepower and 246 lb.-ft. of torque through a five-speed automatic transmission. Best of all, fuel economy closely mirrors that of the four-cylinder. With power going only to the front wheels, a RAV4 with the V6 is rated at 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined; four-wheel-drive models are rated at 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The base price of a four-wheel-drive Limited model with the six-cylinder engine is about $26,000, which makes the RAV4 about similar in price and economy to the Honda CR-V despite more than 100 extra horsepower.

2nd Place - Honda CR-V
3rd Place - Honda’s Element
4th Place - Subaru Outback
5th Place - Ford Escape Hybrid
6th Place - Subaru Forester
7th Place - Lexus RX 400h
8th Place - Mercury Mariner Hybrid
9th Place - Toyota Highlander Hybrid
10th Place - Chevrolet HHR

-- Kevin Hobbs

Posted by Frank at 3:39 PM

How to Buy Classic Car Insurance

If you are fortunate enough to own a classic car - or any collectible automobile - then you want to ensure that your luck does not run out because of having inadequate insurance coverage. Call it covering your butt - or covering your "asset" - but by all means, call one of the major providers such as American Collectors, Haggerty, or Parish Heacock insurance companies and let them put you in the driver's seat in terms of professional protection of your cherished automotive investment.

How to Kick the Tires on Classic Car Insurance
The whole idea of insurance is that it needs to do what you expect of it in an emergency, when the rubber really hits the road. And classic car insurance is as different from conventional auto insurance as, well, a classic car is from your run of the mill generic vehicle.

When you buy a classic car insurance policy, you are essentially purchasing protection for those times when - God forbid and knock on wood it doesn't happen - disaster strikes in the form of a fire, a collision, or an act of theft or vandalism. Just as we now have modern airbags to save us in the event of a crash, we also have collector's car insurance, to protect us with adequate moneybags when calamity throws a wrench in the works.

The time you invest in choosing the right classic car insurance coverage is well worth the value and peace of mind that a quality collector's insurance policy delivers for owners of classic motor cars.

The Nuts and Bolts of Classic Car Insurance Coverage
Collector car insurance is not the same as the insurance you buy for normal coverage of your daily transportation. Collector car insurance, or classic car insurance, is made especially for the needs of the car collector. And while ordinary insurance does offer some protection, no matter what you drive, it can leave you high and dry in the event of a loss that it not effectively covered by the terms of the insurance contract.

For example, you may have a garage-kept Cadillac Sedan DeVille with swooping fins your grandparents bought for $7,000 brand new back in the 1960s. But dealers have offered you three times that much, and you saw another one sell at an auto show for $35,000. If you don't have special collector car insurance or classic car insurance, and the car is totaled, you will be lucky to get $7,000 for it. With depreciation calculated in, the insurance statisticians may decide that it is worth only half that much, or less, and you could wind up with two or three grand in exchange for your dream machine.

Stipulations or requirements normally encountered while shopping for collector car insurance or classic car insurance:

* A decent driving record.
* At least 10 years driving experience
* No teen drivers on the policy or drivers with poor driving records
* Secure and out of the weather garage
* Proof that you have another car for daily transportation
* Collector vehicle insurance is sometimes limited by the age of your car, and if your car is too young it may not qualify for a particular policy.
* Limited mileage. You probably don't want to drive your creampuff car all the time, and your insurance company doesn't want you to either. Mileage limits have increased recently, though, so if you can live with 250 miles a month you're probably okay.

Coverage with collector car insurance or classic car insurance:

Three kinds of value are important to understand when buying your policy.

1) Actual cash value:

This is what you usually get with ordinary insurance, and is based on replacement cost minus depreciation.

2) Stated value:

The insurance company pays up to the stated value of the car, but may not guarantee the full stated value. And deductibles of up to $1,000 usually apply.

3) Agreed value:

In most jurisdictions, those who provide collector car insurance or classic car insurance are allowed to insure for a value that you and your insurer agree upon. And for most autos, there is no deductible. If your $100,000 vintage Rolls get trashed, you get a check for 100 grand, plain and simple - which is exactly why collectors use special classic car insurance coverage.

Do a periodic review of your coverage limits, because classic car prices are rising. What you insured your cherry classic for ten years ago may be a fraction of what it's worth today. And if you are restoring a vehicle, ask your agent to give you appropriate insurance. There is no need to pay extra based on mileage statistics, if your car is up on blocks with no engine inside it. And as the car's value increases thanks to your hard work of restoring it, you should raise the coverage to keep up with the added value of the restoration.

Keep all your receipts and paperwork - for everything from parts and labor to expenses incurred to take it to a classic car show - so that you can document the total investment your collector's car represents. And take photos and keep them updated, for the same reason.

And Last But Not Least: Special Savings Opportunities

As long as you meet the criteria in terms of how you use and take care of the car, you can usually buy a policy.

Traditional insurers will either refuse coverage, offer only a replacement value based on the nuts and bolts (minus heavy depreciation) of the car, or will charge you a prohibitive amount for the premium. But many collectors find that special collector's coverage saves them money - as much as half - while insuring them for higher limits, sometime three or four times what a traditional company gave them.

Yes, it's possible to get collector's insurance coverage for full market value for your car, and save up to 50 percent off of the premium you'd pay with ordinary insurance. That makes classic car insurance a must-have for any serious car buff.

Below is information about three of the most reputable and dependable collectors and classic car insurance companies in the USA (All information listed below subject to change, please contact the insurance companies listed to be sure.):

Hagerty Insurance, P.O. Box 1303
Traverse City, MI 49685-1303
Email: auto@hagerty.com
Toll Free: 800-922-4050

Qualifications:
* Similar to the others listed below, but please contact Haggerty for details.

American Collectors Insurance, P.O. Box 8343
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

Email: info@americancollectors.com
Toll Free: (800) 360-2277

Qualifications (subject to change or regional laws so check with the company for specific up-to-date information).
* At least 15 years old
* Garage-kept
* Driven on a limited, pleasure-only basis (up to 5,000 annual miles - available in most states)

You may also qualify by:
* Having at least 10 years driving experience
* Having a good driving record
* Having at least one "regular" vehicle for every licensed driver in the household

You may request a policy application either directly from American Collectors Insurance or through your local insurance agent (rates are the same either way).

Parish Heacock Classic Car Insurance, P.O. Box 24807
Lakeland, FL 33802-4807

Email: info@parishheacock.com
Toll free: (800) 678-5173

Qualifications (subject to change or regional laws so check with the company for specific up-to-date information):
* Each household member of driving age must have at least 10 years driving experience or be excluded.
* Each household member must have a regular use vehicle less than 15 years old that is insured with liability limits equal to or higher than the limits being applied for on the collectible vehicle.
* All licensed members of household and any other drivers of the vehicle must be listed on the application.
* Maximum of two accidents or violations in the household, maximum of one per licensed household member in past 3 years. No major violations permitted in past 5 years.
* A Driver Health Questionnaire must be completed for all drivers over 70 years old.
* Auto must be stored in a locked permanent garage facility when not driven.
* Auto may not be used for commuting to or from work or school, used for business purposes or as a substitute for another auto.
* Autos not covered while on a racetrack or when being used for: racing, speed, driver's education, or timed events.
* Must display pride of ownership: well maintained, in restored or well-preserved condition.
* Vehicles under restoration must be stored at residence or a restoration shop, with a target date for completion. Agreed value coverage is not available on cars under restoration. Eligibility subject to company review.
* Replica Vehicles and Pro Street vehicles are subject to company review.
* Trucks and Jeeps must be over 25 years old, and not be used for towing, hauling, off-road or utility use.
* Generally do not require appraisals, but may ask for one if vehicle value is difficult to determine.
--
Michael Modica is an avid muscle car fan. He appreciates all classic muscle, but his real passion is the Second Generation Chevrolet Camaro (1970 - 1981). Mike is the webmaster of NastyZ28.com as well as this reference site for automotive paint codes. He can be reached by email at mikem79@nastyz28.com.

Posted by Frank at 3:33 PM

Acura buying tips for 2007

Acura is one of the hottest selling car brands in the USA and many other countries. Although the competition on the car market is fierce, Honda’s luxury division has managed to seize an important segment of the auto industry, so its 2007 models are expected to take the quality even further. Here are a few tips for buying an Acura in 2007, together with a look at their future and current vehicle offer.

Acura RDX (2007)
Priced at $32,995, the 2007 Acura RDX is a medium sized SUV that is slightly smaller than the MDX. The main competitors for the RDX are X3 from BMW and the M Klass Mercedes, together with other mid-sized SUVs. The RDX seems to be a very good choice for a family car that also offers luxury and a bit of sportive feel.

Acura MDX (2007)
The impressive sales of the MDX are expected to rise even further in 2007. Coming from Honda’s luxury division, the car-based seven-passenger MDX will most likely have shoppers face waiting lists. The 2007 Acura MDX has some other impressive advantages – more power and improved stability on any terrain with Acura’s All-Wheel Drive system.

Acura RL (2007)
The 2007 model shifts some of the equipment that was previously considered standard to the options list, in an attempt to lower the overall base price of the RL. You will still get optional choices such as the rearview camera system or the traffic monitoring system.

Acura TL (2007)
The 2007 model receives a 3.5-liter V-6 with 286 horsepower in its Type-S performance edition. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is still not included with this model.

Acura TSX (2007)
Very similar to the European version (Honda Accord), the 2007 Acura TSX is a blend between the RSX and the TL performance sedan. Not a lot of changes accompany the 2007 TSX, but this is partly because there were no complaints with the earlier models.

Current vehicle offers from Acura

Acura MDX (2006)
With a price of $37,125 the 2006 MDX offers everything you might be looking for as far as luxury, safety and performance are concerned in an SUV. The 2006 MDX comes with the popular 4 wheel traction system that Acura fits on all its MDX models, plus the added bonus of XM Satellite radio.

Acura RL (2006)
Launched in 2005, the RL model from Acura has done well in the luxury sedan market. Priced between $48,565 and $53,100, depending on options and engine, the Acura RL comes with all-wheel drive and a well built real-time traffic monitoring system. Other improvements added to the 2006 Acura RL are the CMBS (Collision Mitigation Braking System) and ACS (Adaptive Cruise Control).

Acura RSX (2006)
Priced between $20,325 and $23,845 addresses a much wider target audience thatn the exotic NSX. The base RSX comes with 155-horsepower and the performance Type-S has an additional 46 bhp.

Acura TSX (2006)
The small sport sedan priced at $27,890 is the next step from the RSX sport coupe. The 2006 model comes with changes in the optional equipment and a stylish facelift.

For more information, factual characteristics and photos and wallpapers of the 2006 and 2007 Acura models, please visit all-car-photos.com.

Posted by Frank at 3:27 PM

10 Reasons To Get A CarFax Report

A CarFax report is affordable. For less than $50.00, consumers can learn everything that they need to know about a vehicle before agreeing to make a purchase and signing on the dotted line.

With a CarFax report, you will be able to confirm the automobile’s VIN number, year, make and model. This is important in making sure that you are purchasing the automobile as it is being presented to you for sale.

With a CarFax report, you can find out if the automobile has ever been flooded or has been repaired for any flood damage. This is very important, especially if purchased in areas that are prone to flooding, hurricane damage, etc. Even if an area is not prone to flood damage, there is always the possibility that an automobile has traveled through high water or been exposed to it at some point.

With a CarFax report, you can find out if the automobile has ever been involved in any type of car accident and, if so, what damages were reported. Every day, automobile accidents occur and the damages often require extensive repairs. It is important for you to know whether or not the automobile you are considering purchasing has ever had any type of damage.

With a CarFax report, you can find out if the automobile has ever suffered from any type of fire damage and, if so, what repairs were made to correct the damages.

With a CarFax report, you can make sure the automobile has a clear title and does not have any liens. This is very important when you purchase an automobile, home or even raw land. If you purchase something that does not have a clear title, you are basically throwing your money away. If you receive a clear title, you will have full ownership of the car and will be able to legally resell it in the future.

A CarFax report will confirm the number of miles to be the original miles as noted on the CarFax report. The sad, but honest, truth is that there are some individuals who attempt to falsify an automobile’s actual miles in order to collect a higher sale price.

With a CarFax report, an individual can learn how many previous owners the car has had. This is important in considering why the car has had multiple owners, if it has, and may be a sign that something is wrong. An automobile with only one owner is more likely to be reliable as opposed to one that has been shuffled amongst multiple owners.

With a CarFax report, you can find out what, if any, repairs have been made on the automobile. This is important in considering what type of recurring problem there may be with the automobile or whether or not you are purchasing a lemon. A car that has had excessive repairs, either in various parts or in one particular area, may be an indication that you should be prepared to spend some time at the repair shop as the new owner.

And finally, a CarFax report provides overall peace of mind in knowing that you did the research and are not relying on the seller to provide accurate information. An informed buyer is a smart one.

via Aurel Radulescu.

Posted by Frank at 3:25 PM

General Motors Displays The 'Green' Future Of Transportation At Wired Nextfest

NEW YORK – GM will showcase its vast portfolio of “green” advanced propulsion technologies and how they will help increase fuel economy, reduce emissions and help eliminate dependence on petroleum at WIRED NextFest, today through Oct. 1 at Javits Center in New York.

An official pavilion sponsor, GM’s 4,000-square-foot exhibit will focus on three areas, including: alternative fuels; hybrids and fuel cells; and demonstrating the company’s commitment to improving the environmental performance of both its vehicles and its operations.

Alternative fuels

GM is committed to reducing the nation’s dependence on petroleum and reducing vehicle emissions. E85 ethanol, a fuel blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, is an alternative fuel that helps combat both of these problems. A GM brand FlexFuel vehicle can run on 100-percent gasoline, E85 ethanol or any combination of the two.

For 2007, GM brands will offer 17 E85-compatible FlexFuel models totaling about 400,000 vehicles, nearly double the nine models in 2006. GM already has more than two million flex-fuel models on North American roads offered through Chevrolet, GMC, Buick and Saturn, and has been actively encouraging growth of the E85 refueling structure. Today, ethanol in the U.S. is primarily made from corn, but it can be produced by a variety of other materials.

GM will have an extensive E85 display at NextFest that will include real corn grown by student gardeners from New York City. These gardeners are new participants in the Growing Connection (TGC), a pilot project of the Food & Agriculture Organization of the UN. TGC targets 10- to 15 year-old kids around the world, teaching them to grow food and to connect with each other through information technology.

GM, working in partnership with the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition (NEVC) and East End Marketing, also recently announced that the first New York E85 fueling location to be available to the public will open later this year at the Westhampton Beach Valero station on Long Island. New Yorkers will now have the option of refueling their vehicles with E85.

Hybrids

GM has a diverse hybrid program, with three separate systems designed to meet American driving patterns and needs. The systems will vary in fuel economy savings and cost, providing an opportunity for more consumers to own a hybrid vehicle and benefit from increased fuel economy savings.

Saturn’s new Vue Green Line will be a centerpiece of GM’s NextFest exhibit. A new hybrid that delivers an estimated 20-percent improvement in fuel economy, depending upon driving conditions, the vehicle is expected to deliver an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rating estimated at 27 mpg in the city and the best highway mileage of any SUV at 32 mpg. The vehicle price starts at less than $23,000, positioning the Saturn Vue Green Line as the most affordable hybrid vehicle on the market today.

Fuel cells

The Chevrolet Sequel, GM’s solution to provide the world with a cleaner, petroleum-free vehicle, also will be on display at NextFest. Sequel was introduced in 2005 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It is the first vehicle in the world to successfully integrate a hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system with a broad menu of advanced technologies such as steer- and brake-by-wire controls, wheel hub motors, lithium-ion batteries and a lightweight aluminum structure. It uses clean, renewable hydrogen as a fuel and emits only water vapor.

Sequel fundamentally changes the DNA of today’s automobiles, exchanging an internal combustion engine, petroleum and mechanical systems for fuel cell propulsion, hydrogen and electrical systems. In Sequel, GM has created a real vehicle that promises to lead to long-term, sustainable automotive transportation.

Moving beyond the Sequel, GM recently announced that it will build more than 100 Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell vehicles and will begin placing them with customers in the fall of 2007, as part of a comprehensive deployment plan dubbed “Project Driveway." Designed to gain comprehensive learnings on all aspects of the customer experience, Project Driveway constitutes the first meaningful market test of fuel cell vehicles anywhere.

General Motors’ commitment to developing fuel-saving technologies is demonstrated by its lineup of more vehicles that achieve 30 mpg (based on EPA highway label data) than any other manufacturer for 2006. In fact, GM is on target to sell more than 1 million vehicles this year that achieve greater than 30 mpg highway or more. For more information about GM's fuel-saving technologies, visit www.gmability.com.

‘Green is the New Black’ panel discussion

In addition to its extensive display, Beth Lowery, GM vice president, environment and energy, will participate in the “Green is the New Black” panel discussion at 2 p.m. on Sept. 29 in the Main Pavilion. Lowery will discuss the ongoing transformation of the total vehicle design to help in the “green” evolution of the automotive industry.

WIRED NextFest is open for general admission on Saturday, Sept. 30 and Sunday, Oct. 1, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. It will be staged in New York at Javits Center. For additional information about WIRED NextFest, please visit www.nextfest.net.

WIRED NextFest is sponsored by General Electric, Atari, Autodesk, CITI, Data Pipe, Discovery Channel, GM, Intel, NASA, Pfizer, Coke Black, Hilton Garden Inn and the Science Channel.

Posted by Frank at 3:15 PM

Why Vehicle Accident Photographs Are Valuable

You were humming along on a bright and sunny day when suddenly Fred Fuddle, a local character from a nearby town, drunk as a skunk and zooming along in his pickup, flew through stop sign crashing into the right front of your motor vehicle. You had no choice to avoid him. Now the time has come to settle your claim for property damage and personal injuries. Let’s talk about photographs one of the basics that should have been taking place - - just as soon as possible - - after that impact had taken place.

PHOTOGRAPHS OF INJURIES: Photographs are often the best evidence you can produce to increase the value of your claim. If your accident causes bodily injuries that are visible (such as bruises, deep cuts, swellings, lacerations, dislocations and/or black and blue marks) it’s crucial, to the ultimate settlement value of your case, that you have photographs taken of those just as soon as possible! Take them from 3 feet away and also as close as you can so as to capture the seriousness of their existence. When you hand those to Adjuster I. M. Smart from the Granite Insurance Company believe me when I tell you he’ll stare at them and blanch!

PHOTOGRAPHS OF BOTH VEHICLES: You should take photographs of the damages to your vehicle from several different angles. If at all possible find the motor vehicle that hit you and take photographs of that damage also. When it comes to proving the impact your body was subjected to (and in many cases to prove who was at fault) those photographs could one day be worth their weight in gold.

HOW TO TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE ACCIDENT SCENE: The pictures of each accident scene should be taken from at least three different angles: Snap several of a “general view” of the area from about 20 to 40 feet away; a couple more “medium range” shot’s from 10 to 15 feet away, and then some “close up” shot’s from 3 to 5 feet away. If it’s at all possible all three different distances should have a common point or orientation. If, for example, you’re snapping photographs of a skid mark, it should be taken from an angle so as to clearly show were that skid mark is, in relation to a landmark, like a street sign, a building, a fire hydrant, etc. Another photograph should then be taken with a closer view - - one clearly identifying the skid mark in detail - -and also, if possible, include this readily identifiable object or landmark (the street signs, building‘s, etc.).

Because they’re such potent evidence you should blow up those photographs of the skid marks, taken from 3 to 6 feet away, into 8X10 glossies. A total of 12 to 15 photographs of the accident scene and/or the skid marks are not too many. When you hand copies of the 8X10 glossy photograph’s of those skid marks to the adjuster, to help justify he payment he’ll eventually make to you, it will absolutely increase the value of your claim.

"Why" you ask?

The answer to that one is, "Because it will tell both adjuster Smart and his supervisor (who, in the end, will usually call the shots on how much your settlement dollars should be) that you know what you’re doing and you’re not the type of individual who can be taken advantage of".

A WORD OF CAUTION: The individual engaged in the task of snapping photograph’s of your body, the accident scene, etc., should be careful to make sure they’re not undertaking this effort with a casual, hasty or careless attitude - - one that tends to leave it up to do the camera to do the thinking for them. Rather, the photographer ought to carefully consider the process the process slowly and seriously so that the photos produced will produce the maximum value.

If at all possible photos should be taken of the exact location on the road where the impact occurred, and shots of all relevant gouge and/or chop marks on the surface, plus traffic signs, etc., as applicable.

It cannot be emphasized enough that photographs of skid marks are invaluable evidence, since they can often indicate Fuddle’s speed at the time of impact and can be a tremendous asset when it comes to establishing fault.

A good practice to follow is to make a brief notation on the backs of all photos, entering upon them a brief account of what the photo is showing, the date it was taken and by whom.

Photographs of injuries, the accident scene and the road surface if done correctly - - is money in the bank !

-- from Daniel G. Baldyga

DISCLAIMER: The only purpose of this article "THE GREAT VALUE OF ACCIDENT PHOTOGRAPHS" is to help people understand the motor vehicle accident claim process. Neither Dan Baldyga, Peter Go nor ARTICLECITY.COM make any guarantee of any kind whatsoever: NOR do they purport to engage in rendering any professional or legal service, NOR to substitute for a lawyer, an insurance adjuster, or claims consultant, or the like. Where such professional help is desired it is the INDIVIDUAL’S RESPONSIBILITY to obtain said services.

All of the information necessary for you to deal with and handle the above issues are spelled out wiithin the contents of Dan Baldyga's third "How To" Insurance Claim book AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM (How To Evaluate And Settle Your Loss)found on the internet at http://www.caraccidentclams.com or http://www.autoaccodentclaims.com. This book also contains BASE (The Baldyga Auto Accident Settlement Evaluation Formula). THE BASE FORMULA will tell you exactly how many dollars the "Pain and Suffering" you endured, because of your accident - - are worth!

Posted by Frank at 3:15 PM

General Motors And Weekly Reader Teach Students To Live Green By Going Yellow

Free Curriculum Teaches Middle School Students About E85 Ethanol

STAMFORD , Conn. – Diversifying our country’s energy supply. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Utilizing alternative fuels. As energy topics continue to grow in importance, GM and Weekly Reader are launching a new educational program on E85 ethanol that is aimed at a generation poised to benefit from its use.

The multimedia middle school curriculum, “Live Green, Go Yellow: The Power of Corn,” includes a classroom DVD that demonstrates the process by which ethanol is produced from domestically grown corn. In-class activities introduce students to E85 ethanol and how it could make a positive impact on the way in which we fuel our automobiles by reducing dependence on petroleum and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Using the curriculum, students explore the economic, agricultural and environmental impacts of using E85 ethanol as a fuel source.

“GM is committed to continually improving the impact its vehicles have on the environment, and making products that can run on alternative fuels such as E85 ethanol is one way we are doing that, “said Elizabeth A. Lowery, GM vice president, environment and energy. “GM also believes that it is important to educate today’s young people, who will be tomorrow’s leaders, in the areas of science and math. Working with Weekly Reader to develop this classroom curriculum on E85 ethanol is a great opportunity to do that.”

General Motors and Weekly Reader have had a long commitment to educating students in all grades on some of the most revolutionary issues in science and technology.

“We’re teaching students about a topic that impacts them today and will continue to impact their lives in the future,” said Peter Esposito, president of Weekly Reader Corporation Custom Publishing. “That we can provide educators with dynamic content is a tremendous accomplishment.”

Previous programs that GM and Weekly Reader have created provide elementary and middle school science teachers with topical curriculum materials that highlight promising new technologies, including the hydrogen-powered fuel cell. Since 2002, these educational materials have reached more than 24 million students.

Four years ago, General Motors and Weekly Reader first distributed a middle school program titled, “Fuel Cells: Driving the Future.” It has since won the prestigious 2004 Society of Automotive Engineers, Environmental Excellence in Transportation Award and a silver 2005 entry-level Connecticut Quality Improvement Award (CQIA) Innovation Prize. GM’s education web site, www.gmability.com/education, also won the esteemed Holmes Group’s 2004 Bronze SABRE award.

To learn more about GM’s education, environment and technology initiatives, or to download “Live Green, Go Yellow: The Power of Corn” in English and Spanish, visit www.gmability.com/education.

For the 2007 model year, GM produces 17 vehicle models capable of operating on E85 ethanol and has more than two million E85 vehicles currently on the road. For more information on GM’s E85 ethanol initiatives, go to www.livegreengoyellow.com.

Posted by Frank at 3:14 PM

Some Thoughts On Becoming A Trucker

If you have the will to explore around the country and get paid at the same time, consider being a trucker. Truckers enjoy some benefits that people in other capacites do not have, namely the camaraderie among other Truckers, meeting new people, being able to witness the changing seasons as you commute around the country, unpredictability (in other words, less boredom!), and plenty of available trucking stations. All are valid reasons why people chuck their current occupations for the chance at the open interstate highway.

Of course, as with all major life determinations, changing jobs to drive a truck takes some information. To begin with, think about how your personal life will change. There will instances when you might miss your son’s baseball games or be late getting home for the holidays because of arterial conditions due to the weather. Extended periods away from home sometimes take a toll on a person, so you have to decide whether driving trucks is right for you.

If your heart is still set on being a driver, then your next step is to find a reputable trucking corporation or school that offers truck driving programs and instruction. There are usually specialized schools specifically for truck driving, but sometimes, local community colleges have vocational programs available too. The best thing to do is check with your local Department of Transportation office first to find out the stipulations for truck drivers and what type of instruction is the best training for earning your Commercial Driver’s License. Chances are that they have a recommended list of the best schools in the area.

The unmatched scenario for training and certification is one on one, just you and the instructor. Sometimes, if you are in a big rig with several other trainees and the coach, that does not give you as much hands-on instruction as you need. Another thing to think about when choosing a trucking business or school is whether they offer labor placement assistance. New truckers need all the help they can get in identifying engagement opportunities. There are plenty of trucking labors out there, but as a new driver, you may not know all the ins and outs of the different trucking companies.

From changes in the weather to that wacky creature driving a convertible unclad, Truck drivers have run across many situations like these. Their life on the interstate highway may not always be easy, but it sure can be an interesting one. A trucker’s life may not be for everyone, but those that do it, care for it.

Do your research and consider becoming a trucker.

via Yvonne Volante.

Posted by Frank at 3:13 PM

General Motors Makes E85 Fuel Available To Consumers For First Time Ever In New York

New E85 Pump to Open at Westhampton Beach Valero Station

NEW YORK – General Motors, in partnership with the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition (NEVC) and East End Marketing, today announced that the first New York E85 fueling location available to the public will soon open at the Westhampton Beach Valero station on Long Island.

“Thanks to the national consumer education campaign of General Motors; the leadership of Gov. Pataki and the many state agencies that have helped promote the use of biofuels; and the support of our local alternative fuel advocacy organization, the Greater Long Island Clean Cities Coalition; our dream of bringing E85 ethanol to the Long Island community is becoming a reality,” said Rhea Courtney Bozic, northeast regional coordinator, NEVC. “We are thrilled to join General Motors and East End Marketing in this announcement to make E85 ethanol publicly available to New York drivers for the first time ever.”

Installation of the new pump is currently under way, and it is expected to open to the public by the end of the year. “ We are thrilled to provide consumers in Westhampton Beach alternative fuel choices such as E85 ethanol that will enhance the environment and provide greater independence from foreign fuels,” added Robert Chase, director of operations, East End Marketing. “We look forward to working with the NEVC and General Motors to introduce New York motorists to the many benefits of E85 ethanol.”

As part of the partnership, GM will promote the availability of the fuel through consumer and dealer outreach. The effort is similar to announcements GM has already made with other state government, oil industry, ethanol producers and retail partners across the country.

“GM already has more than two million vehicles on the road today that are capable of using E85 ethanol fuel,” said Elizabeth Lowery, GM vice president, environment and energy. “Our latest efforts in New York are the result of our ongoing commitment to partnering with government, fuel providers and retailers to make E85 ethanol more widely available across the country, while we continue to educate consumers about the fueling options they have as flex fuel owners.”

The announcement of New York’s first E85 ethanol pump follows Chevrolet’s announcement last month that it provided the MTV Video Music Awards with a fleet of 60 E85-compatible SUVs to transport talent to the Aug. 31 awards telecast at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The Chevrolet celebrity fleet ran on E85 ethanol, which GM purchased from Sprague Energy. Sprague Energy delivered E85 ethanol to the New York City Department of Sanitation, which provided temporary refueling for the Chevrolet celebrity fleet at its six E85 fueling sites in New York City. These refueling sites are fleet stations and are not open to the public.

The MTV Video Music Awards promotion and the Westhampton Beach station opening are part of a larger, ongoing campaign by GM to drive consumer awareness of the benefits of E85 ethanol. GM is partnering with government, fuel providers and fuel retailers across the nation to help grow the E85 ethanol fueling station infrastructure. Since May of 2005, GM has announced partnerships in 10 states ( South Dakota, California, Florida, Texas, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania) to locate up to 170 new E85 ethanol fueling locations by the end of 2006. To date, there are more than 950 E85 ethanol fueling stations in the U.S.

E85 flexible-fuel vehicles can run on any combination of gasoline and/or E85, a fuel blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. E85 ethanol can contribute to energy independence because it diversifies the source of transportation fuels beyond petroleum, and it provides positive environmental benefits in the form of reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Because research has shown that many owners of flex-fuel vehicles do not know that their vehicles are capable of using E85 ethanol, GM has initiated a sweeping consumer education and advertising campaign aimed at promoting the benefits of E85 ethanol and GM’s flexible fuel vehicle leadership, and encouraging consumers to actively promote E85 ethanol in their communities. “Live Green Go Yellow” ads continue throughout the year with print, web (livegreengoyellow.com) and broadcast media components.

GM is also committed to educating consumers about the fueling options they have as flex-fuel owners. Chevrolet and GMC E85 FlexFuel cars and trucks will soon come equipped with a yellow fuel cap, indicating the consumer has a choice of either gasoline or E85 fuel.

GM is a leader in flexible-fuel vehicle production and sales. GM currently offers nine E85 flexible fuel vehicles, including the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Impala and the Chevrolet Monte Carlo. At the same time, worldwide production of ethanol is increasing every year.

Posted by Frank at 3:13 PM

Ford Bold Moves #13: The Untold Truth

In just its 1st year of production, the quality of the Ford Fusion has earned praise from customers and the press. Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Ford’s biggest hits.

Posted by Frank at 3:12 PM

ACDelco Drives Business with " Battery Bucks" Promotion

GRAND BLANC, MICH. — ACDelco is pleased to announce ACDelco “Battery Bucks,” another promotion to help Independent Service Centers (ISCs) grow their business and improve their customer retention.

To promote ACDelco’s “Battery Bucks” rebate promotion, ACDelco wil l sponsor up to 250 mailings to targeted customers of any ISC or ACDelco Total Service Support (TSS) account that enrolls for the promotion. The promotion is available for a limited time and utilizes MechanicNet Customer Retention System (CRS) to identify and target customers whose vehicles might be in need of having their batteries replaced.

ACDelco “Battery Bucks” builds off the success of ACDelco’s popular summer “Brake Bucks” incentive. Through direct-mail postcards, “Battery Bucks” invites consumers to visit their local ISCs or ACDelco TSS accounts for a battery test and charging and starting system inspection. It offers consumers a $10 mail-in rebate with the purchase and installation of an ACDelco-branded battery OR any ACDelco Automotive Replacement parts when the repair invoice totals at least $70 in ACDelco products. The consumer mail-in rebate promotion runs November 1 – December 31, 2006.

“Many ISCs enrolled in ACDelco’s TSS program have long realized the benefits of ACDelco’s relationship with MechanicNet Group to help grow their businesses and improve their customer retention,” said ACDelco Marketing Director Nancy McLean. “Through the ACDelco ‘Battery Bucks’ promotion, now all ISCs can sample the benefits of the MechanicNet CRS and learn more about the TSS program.”

MechanicNet CRS has the ability to integrate with over 120 shop management systems to retrieve repair order information and analyze consumers’ vehicle service history. This helps to best identify which consumers within a shop’s database are most likely to require a battery and / or other services.

During the promotional period, MechanicNet will professionally produce and mail four-color, personalized postcards to these target customers. According to MechanicNet, market tests show targeted promotion mailings have delivered response rates 20 times better than traditional direct mail – and bring in commensurate revenue. The mail-in rebate offer is available EXCLUSIVELY to consumers who receive the “Battery Bucks” direct mail postcard.

ACDelco, for a $50 promotional fee, will sponsor the mailing of up to 250 postcards; the fee is waived for existing MechanicNet CRS subscribers at the time of the promotion. ISCs and ACDelco TSS accounts not able to take advantage of MechanicNet CRS technology can leverage traditional direct mail through R.J. Conlin.

ISCs and ACDelco TSS accounts must enroll in MechanicNet by October 13 in order to receive 250 postcards at no additional charge for the end-of-October mailing; the postcard promotion is open only to U.S. locations. ISCs as well as current TSS members can enroll in the promotion by logging on to acdelcotechconnect.com, then clicking on the postcard icon for qualification requirements.

“We’ve been on MechanicNet for nine months now and have used both the direct mail and on-line e-mail options,” said Mike Turner, owner, Portland Automotive, Inc., and a member of ACDelco’s TSS Advisory Council. “We’ve had a great return rate, particularly for the recent ACDelco ‘Brake Bucks’ promotion, and will keep using the program. In fact, we plan to increase our e-mail use over the coming months.”

For more information on ACDelco’s TSS program or the ACDelco “ Battery Bucks” promotion, log on to acdelcotechconnect.com.

ACDelco markets quality replacement parts for Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, GM and practically every other vehicle on the road today. To find an ACDelco parts retailer or ACDelco certified technician near you, log on to acdelco.com or call 1-800-ACDelco.

Posted by Frank at 3:11 PM

Ford Exec Optimistic With Mulally at Helm

Ford President of the Americas Mark Fields said he does not expect newly hired CEO Alan Mulally to overhaul the automaker's executive team and called him a "huge add to the team, reports The Wall Street Journal.

Mr. Fields said that though he's only had a few meetings with Mr. Mulally, he thinks the new CEO will help institute a culture change at Ford, though he warned that it wouldn't come overnight. Mr. Fields is overseeing the company's Way Forward restructuring plan, which aims to reduce operating costs by approximately $5 billion, including about 14,000 salaried job cuts and buyout offers for all Ford's hourly employees at the United Auto Workers.

Posted by Frank at 3:11 PM

Toyota WV Plant To Expand For Fifth Time in a Decade

With Toyota seeking to expand global production to nearly 10 million vehicles by 2008, the automaker's Buffalo, West Virginia plant is in the process of its fifth expansion since the plant opened in 1996. The Buffalo plant manufactures engines for Toyota's Corolla, Sienna, and Solara models. It also makes transmissions for the Sienna, Avalon and Lexus RX350 lines, reports The State Journal.

The plant is in the process of expanding to include production lines for six-speed automatic transmissions and a new four-cylinder engine. Those projects will be complete in July 2007. "When we announced the opening plant 10 years ago, we had a four-cylinder engine line with 200 production team members," said David Copenhaver, vice president of administration at the Buffalo plant. The plant has now surpassed 1,100 workers and continues to grow.

Posted by Frank at 3:10 PM

Kerkorian Move Raises Questions

The move by billionaire investor Kirk Kerkorian yesterday to make public his interest in buying up to 12 million additional shares in General Motors has sparked questions on what his motive behind the announcement may be.

Some people in the industry believe Kerkorian is just looking for a larger stake in the automaker and is not making the move to try and influence an alliance with Renault-Nissan.

Dave Cole, president of the Center for Automotive Research, is quoted in today's Chicago Tribune as saying, "with or without Renault-Nissan, GM is ahead of the game in its restructuring, and Kerkorian sees that and thinks he can make money."

Argus Research analyst Kevin Tynan, however, believes Kerkorian's move is a way to "publicly nudge GM a little closer to an alliance," since Kerkorian's investment firm Tracinda Corp. promoted the alliance talks in the first place. George Peterson, president of automotive research and consulting firm AutoPacific, sees both motives at work.

"Purchasing more GM shares gives off vibrations he's more positive about GM and that the stock is still at a bargain value so he can pick up 12 million more shares and make a lot of money on it," he said. "It also puts him in a slightly stronger position to exert pressure on an alliance, which would result in a rapid short-term appreciation in the value of GM stock and bring him a huge return on his investment."

Posted by Frank at 3:09 PM

Foreign car companies working Detroit

International nameplate autos have moved into the Detroit-to-Ann Arbor corridor in search of the abundance of engineering and design talent around the area, reports The Associated Press.

Asian cars and trucks developed and designed in the Detroit area include Toyota's Camry, Sienna minivan, and Avalon sedan; Nissan's Titan, Altima, and Versa; and soon vehicles from Hyundai and Kia.

Toyota's technical center in Ann Arbor employs almost 700 people and the automaker is building a second facility nearby with room to grow. Hyundai-Kia opened its tech center in Ann Arbor last year and has about 300 designers and engineers working on vehicles to be built at plants in Alabama and Georgia.

Nissan already has 1,200 workers, mostly engineers and designers, in nearby Farmington Hills.

Posted by Frank at 3:09 PM

September 28, 2006

Scion design: you can win a chance to design the next Scion showroom

Toyota launches Showroom Design Contest that takes place entirely online

Geared for youthful car buyers, Scion is the latest line of cars from Toyota Motor Corporation. To carve out a home for the brand, the car manufacturer has launched an international showroom design competition, Scion Floorplan.

Applicants should submit a written description and a complete design concept for a 750-square-foot showroom online. The first prize winner will take home $5,000—and earn the opportunity to see his or her idea realized. Second and third place winners will receive $1,000 and $500, respectively.

Each concept must include what the manufacturer calls the Discovery Area, an area to communicate the brand and educate potential buyers, and the Consultation Area, a semi-private space for sales consultants.

The winning entry will be selected in December by Scion executives and retail environment design firm Commune based on creativity, manufacturability, functionality, and appropriateness to the Scion brand and the buyer.

“Since the brand’s inception we have worked to support musicians, artists, and filmmakers,” says Alan Mimaki, business operations manager for Scion. “We are very excited to add architects and interior designers and look forward to see their visions of the next generation Scion showroom.”

More information is available on the Scion Floorplan Web site.

Posted by Frank at 5:11 PM

Report: DaimlerChrysler in talks with Chinese auto maker

DaimlerChrysler is in talks to sell compact, fuel-efficient vehicles from China's Chery Automobile Co. in the U.S., via its Chrysler Group, according to the German magazine Der Spiegel. Spokesmen for both DaimlerChrysler and Chery denied any knowledge of such talks.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 5:04 PM

General Motors to tap into U.S. patriotism

In a bid to position the Silverado as America's truck, General Motors is dropping the "like a rock" campaign in favor of patriotic ads featuring "Our Country," a soon-to-be-released anthem by John Mellencamp.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 5:01 PM

GM building home hydrogen refueling system

General Motors said it is developing a hydrogen refueling unit designed for home use. The company has an eye on selling fuel-cell cars by 2011.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 5:00 PM

Honda plans "superclean" diesel-powered car for U.S.

Honda Motor said it plans to introduce, by 2009, a car equipped with a "superclean" diesel engine to the U.S market. The company said it believes the V-4 engine, which already has been introduced in Europe, will change Americans' traditionally poor perceptions of diesel. The main benefit of the technology is a substantial reduction in NOx emissions, a primary obstacle to widespread diesel adoption.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:58 PM

Honda won't equip new CR-V with V6 engine

Honda said has no plans to equip its redesigned CR-V crossover-utility vehicle with a V-6 engine. A Honda planner said many consumers consider the CR-V the ideal vehicle in terms of size, packaging and styling.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:57 PM

Six automakers sued by state of California

The state of California last week sued General Motors, Toyota, Ford, Honda, Chrysler and Nissan, alleging they've played a major role in the buildup of greenhouse gases, by selling vehicles that emit large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers defended its members, saying the automakers are working hard to produce cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:55 PM

Japanese automakers capturing big share of Chinese market

Japan's six major automakers are plowing their way into the Chinese market, the fastest-growing auto market in the world. Although Japanese companies entered the market somewhat late, their aggressive efforts to expand production and roll out new models, have given them an edge over their U.S. and European rivals in China.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:54 PM

As gas prices drop, will buyers go for bigger cars?

Falling gasoline prices could induce some consumers to spring for bigger, less fuel-efficient cars like SUVs, but many auto industry experts say it's unlikely prices at the pump will go low enough to fuel another big-car boom anytime soon.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:53 PM

Watch your car being built, drive it away

Automakers including Chevrolet, BMW and Ford are offering buyers of certain vehicles -- Chevy's Corvette and BMW's Z4 are two prime examples -- the chance to see their vehicles being built, an opportunity some car enthusiasts see as too good to pass up.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:52 PM

GM Announces Corporate Ad Agency Addition

DETROIT – General Motors Corp. has named Deutsch, Inc., in Los Angeles, an official advertising agency of record. Beginning, Jan. 1, 2007, Deutsch will work on specific reputational projects such as promoting GM’s leadership in quality, alternative fuels, economic impact and the environment.

Last month, Deutsch LA was responsible for the successful “Elevate” campaign to announce GM’s 100,000 mile / 5 year warranty.

“GM is fundamentally changing the way we market and sell our vehicles. We are very focused on addressing the quality perception gap between how consumers view GM cars and trucks and the reality of how beautifully designed and well-engineered they truly are,” said Mike Jackson, GM North America vice president, Marketing and Advertising. “The GM 100,000 Mile Warranty campaign, which Deutsch helped us launch last month, is the latest example of this new level of confidence at GM today.” GM is challenging all of its agencies to improve consideration by not only promoting its new vehicle lineup, but by closing the perceptual gap in areas such as quality and fuel efficiency.

Posted by Frank at 4:24 PM

ACDelco Fall Car Care Tips - Start with the "Four Bs"

GRAND BLANC, MICH. -- Along with the change of seasons from fall to winter comes the likelihood of poor road conditions and reduced visibility. Automotive breakdowns, never convenient, can be even more dangerous in cold weather. Preventive vehicle maintenance can help lessen the odds of mechanical failure.

"Fall is a crucial time to have your vehicle inspected, starting with the 'four Bs' -- batteries, brakes, wiper blades and belts and hoses," said Chris Vermette, ACDelco product specialist, Wiper Blades and Belts and Hoses. "Cold weather only makes existing problems worse. You never want to have a breakdown, but winter can be the worst possible time."

Vermette recommends vehicle owners check their Owner's Manual and the recommended vehicle maintenance schedules before taking their cars and trucks to a professional technician for a complete inspection, including the critical "Four Bs:"

* Batteries. Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. Extreme temperatures, battery age and cranking power are determinants as to whether a vehicle will start. Have an ASE-certified technician use professional equipment to determine if the battery is weak, while also checking the condition of the starter and alternator.
* Brakes. A thorough inspection at a service center should include a "wheels-on" inspection -- to help identify wheel alignment problems, sticking calipers or warped rotors -- as well as a "wheels-off" inspection of the various brake parts. Also check the brake fluid; low levels can cause a dangerous loss of braking performance. Make sure the reservoir is filled to the MAX line with new brake fluid from a sealed container.
* Blades. Wiper blades that were installed new last spring may be ready for replacement this fall. Examine wiper blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. In addition, wipers tend to build up a thin layer of grime during the summer that keeps the rubber blade from contacting the glass, which could result in smeared windshields and poor visibility. Vermette recommends that vehicle owners who live in cold climates consider switching to a winter wiper blade or the ACDelco Beam Wiper Blade, but should check their vehicle's Owner's Manual for specific recommendations.
* Belts and Hoses. Don't wait until a belt or hose breaks and leaves you stranded alongside the road to replace it. Inspect engine belts for cracking and pliability. If they are rigid, they should be replaced. Hoses deteriorate from the inside out; test them for spongy, brittle or bulging areas.

In addition to inspecting the "Four Bs," a fall maintenance checkup may include: changing the oil; checking the radiator fluid levels; inspecting or replacing the oil filter and the air and cabin filters; inspecting the heating and exhaust systems; balancing and aligning the wheels; topping off all fluids; examining lights to make sure they work and that headlights are properly aimed; and rotating the tires, making sure to check the tire pressure and inspect the treads for wear.

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

Posted by Frank at 4:21 PM

Investing In Vehicle Maintenance Can Pay Dividends When It's Time To Sell Or Trade

Tips from GM Goodwrench can help reduce the overall cost of vehicle ownership

DETROIT - Besides a home, owning a vehicle is one of the biggest investments a consumer will make. That investment extends beyond the sticker in the vehicle's window: It includes insurance, fuel, regularly scheduled maintenance and depreciation.

The good news is that today's new cars and trucks are designed and built to run for more than 100,000 miles, remain in service an average of 16 years and serve four to five different owners, according to Tom Kontos, Vice President of Analytical Services for ADESA Inc., a leading provider of wholesale vehicle auctions and related services in North America. So while some costs - such as insurance premiums and gas - are largely outside of consumers' control, financially savvy owners can actively help improve their bottom line at sale or trade-in by keeping their vehicles properly maintained, according to industry experts.

"A vehicle that has been well-maintained can be worth thousands more at sale or trade-in," said Joni Gray, consumer advice editor for Kelley Blue Book (KBB), a noted authority on vehicle resale value. "That money can be used toward the purchase of a new vehicle."

For definitive answers on GM vehicle maintenance, vehicle owners need look no further than their owner's manual and the nearest GM Goodwrench dealership. The manual details the regular maintenance and preventive procedures recommended for keeping vehicles in optimum condition; GM-trained Goodwrench technicians at nearly 7,000 GM dealerships can perform the services.

Maintenance and the bottom line

According to ADESA Analytical Services, nearly half of consumers - 47 percent - keep new vehicles for between one and four years. That means those who sell or trade need to know the vehicle's value.

Kelley Blue Book offers a 16-question online quiz: The answers help determine values based on conditions ranging from excellent to fair. (KBB includes a 'poor' category but does not provide value estimates). Criteria include condition of the engine, transmission, body, tires, brakes, interior, HVAC systems and even the existence of service records.

"If you've had your vehicle maintained and serviced at any GM Goodwrench dealership, you will be able provide documentation of the vehicle's entire service record history, even if you weren't good at keeping individual paper receipts," said Stephanie Gehl, GM Service and Parts Operations Portfolio manager, Quick Service Products. "That's a key benefit of GM's Goodwrench service that can also help improve resale value."

Gehl added that October, which the Car Care Council designates Fall Car Care Month, is an excellent time for consumers to have their vehicles inspected before the busy holiday season approaches.

What maintenance steps can drivers take to help improve vehicle resale?

Most drivers know part of regular maintenance includes changing the vehicle's oil as indicated by the GM Oil Life System or at proper service intervals specified in their manufacturers' owner manual, but there are other things they can do to help improve their vehicles' bottom line at sale or trade-in. GM Goodwrench recommends the following:

* Take a few moments to walk around the vehicle and make sure all the bulbs are working: the headlights, the taillights and the brake lights.
* Maintain a clean air filter. A clogged air intake system can lead to poor vehicle performance and reduce fuel economy.
* Look under the vehicle occasionally for leaks that may need addressing.
* Wash the vehicle regularly to remove corrosive substances such as road salt, and so that small dings or loose trim pieces can be identified and repaired early.
* Help prevent pre-mature wearing of tires by ensuring they are rotated on a regular basis, are properly inflated, and correctly aligned.

"Poorly maintained tires can be expensive to replace and may impact resale value," said Gehl. "But more importantly, well-maintained tires are critical to the safe performance of a vehicle."

What is a Multi-Point Inspection?

GM Goodwrench offers convenient, efficient, multipoint inspections for vehicles, comprehensive diagnostic testing and complete service capabilities to help customers keep their vehicles operating properly. GM Goodwrench dealerships offer the following inspection services:

* Transmission, drive shaft and u-joints
* Radiator, heater and air-conditioning hoses
* Interior lights, exterior lamps, brake lamps, turn signals and hazard warning lights
* Exhaust system
* Engine air cleaner filter
* Suspension and steering system components

Posted by Frank at 4:15 PM

GM Announces Carry-Over Pricing On The Most Popular Versions Of The All-New 2007 Chevrolet Silverado And GMC Sierra Pickups

Nearly Half of the Models Are Within $300 of the Models They Replace

DALLAS – GM North America President Troy Clarke announced today, just prior to the State Fair of Texas, that the most popular versions of the all-new 2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra light-duty pickup trucks will be priced the same as the models they replace.

The industry leader in full-size pickup sales, GM has comprehensively redesigned the trucks with new exterior and interior designs, as well as powertrain, chassis and safety systems. Production of the trucks begins on Oct. 2, and they are expected to begin arriving in Chevrolet and GMC dealerships in early November.

“The all-new 2007 Silverado and Sierra will set the new standard in the full-size pickup segment with segment-leading fuel economy, performance, capability, refinement and safety,” Clarke said. “And the best part is, our customers can get into one for the same price as the prior model, but with more standard equipment.”

Also new for 2007 is GM’s five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is fully transferable and includes courtesy transportation and roadside assistance for the duration of the warranty.

The 2007 Silverado and Sierra extended cab pricing begins at $23,605, and the crew cab versions of the trucks start at $27,000. All prices include a $900 destination freight charge, and apply to two-wheel-drive models with a standard 4.8L V-8 engine.

In addition to the carry-over pricing on the most popular models, GM also announced modest price increases on several other versions of the trucks, and some models actually went down in price. “Nearly half of the 2007 Silverado and Sierra models are within $300 of the models they replace, with added standard equipment such as OnStar, tire pressure monitoring, StabiliTrak and improved fuel economy,” said Clarke. “We wanted to reward and grow our customer loyalty by exceeding expectations for unparalleled capability and value.”

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 75 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 327,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2005, 9.17 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM operates one of the world’s leading finance companies, GMAC Financial Services, which offers automotive, residential and commercial financing and insurance. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Posted by Frank at 4:13 PM

GMAC Survey Finds Consumers Well-Informed About Car Buying Process

DETROIT - While the majority of consumers are well-informed about the car-buying process, even more could benefit by taking some simple steps--such as understanding their credit scores--before considering financing options, according to a new survey by GMAC Financial Services.

Nearly 70 percent of those surveyed responded that they believed they were well-informed to get the best deal for their money at the time they bought their first car. Sixty-six percent correctly were aware that the best way to lower a monthly payment on car financing is to make a larger down payment, and 83 percent were aware that a monthly car payment should not exceed 20 percent of their take-home pay. Many consumers also are seeking to further educate themselves online, with almost half (49 percent) responding that they conducted online research before buying their most recent car.

However, 72 percent of respondents failed to check their credit report before making their vehicle purchase. Credit scores give consumers an indicator of their relative creditworthiness and help them set expectations for what will be available through the negotiating process.

"Buying a vehicle is a major financial decision, and it is important that consumers fully understand how their credit records factor into their ability to finance a vehicle," said Bill Muir, president, GMAC Financial Services. "This survey highlights the value that companies like GMAC and GM dealers provide as they continue to educate people about the fundamentals of personal finance and give them the knowledge they need to get the vehicle that best fits their budget."

GMAC Financial Services has designed a public education campaign, SmartEdge by GMAC, to help better prepare consumers to set realistic budgets and make smart purchasing decisions. The program, conducted in conjunction with GM dealers and other partners, helps to increase awareness and understanding of automotive financing, unlock the mysteries of personal credit and help consumers decide whether buying or leasing a new vehicle is right for them. In addition to helping consumers understand the factors that affect their credit score, SmartEdge provides information on understanding the choices available and knowing what can be negotiated at the dealership.

"A well-prepared customer is the best customer to have," said John P. Jones, principal owner of Greenfield Pontiac Buick GMC in Milwaukee, Wis. "SmartEdge by GMAC allows dealers like me to help ensure our customers have all the information, tools and resources they need to take control of their finances--before they make a purchase--and help them make vehicle financing decisions that they will be able to sustain over time."

SmartEdge by GMAC offers the following tips for car buyers:

* Know your credit score. The rate you pay on financing is based in part on your credit rating. As a general rule, the better your credit score, the lower the rate.
* Establish a good credit history. Pay your bills on time; maintain a small amount of total debt; and minimize the amount of open credit you have available.
* Determine how much you can afford. Itemize your monthly income and expenses and create a budget to determine how much you can afford to pay on a car purchase or lease. As a general rule, your monthly car payment should not exceed 15-20 percent of your monthly take-home pay.
* Know what you're talking about. Familiarize yourself with key financial terms. For example, understanding "APR" is important when you finance and "Residual Value" is important to know when you lease.
* Learn how to make smart choices. Know what is negotiable at the dealership; how finance and lease incentives work; and what optional products you may choose to add to your contract or lease agreement.
* Understand the differences between buying and leasing. Make sure you have taken your lifestyle into consideration so you can make an accurate comparison between the two.

SmartEdge by GMAC is free to everyone - with absolutely no strings attached - and provides tips for car buyers and useful information such as step-by-step comparisons of the costs of purchasing and leasing.

SmartEdge seminars can be attended locally in communities across the country. Written materials and videos are available online at www.SmartEdgebyGMAC.com.

Posted by Frank at 4:12 PM

GM moving huge chunk of advertising dollars to new agency

General Motors Corp. plans to announce tomorrow that it will move a major chunk of its corporate-ad account from Interpublic Group of Cos.' McCann Erickson, Birmingham, Mich., to sibling Deutsch, Los Angeles.

The move will be another major coup for Deutsch, which got its foot in the door at the automaker last fall, when the agency started negotiations for Chevrolet's 2006 Major League Baseball and motor-sports marketing efforts. That business had been handled by Interpublic sibling Campbell-Ewald, Warren, Mich., which remains agency of record for Chevrolet, GM's biggest-selling vehicle. Deutsch recently completed work on the automaker's "Elevate" campaign.

GM's Mark LaNeve, VP-vehicle sales, service and marketing in North America, told Advertising Age he wasn't ready to discuss the matter. He maintained GM doesn't exactly have a "corporate account," but that its so-called reputational ads encompass everything from its OnStar service to Deutsch's "Elevate" ads that broke earlier this month for the automaker's new expanded warranty on all its 2007 models.

"We are looking at bringing in additional talent in that [reputational] area," he told Advertising Age. McCann, he said, will continue to handle national "retail stuff."

Executives from McCann declined comment; executives from Deutsch, Los Angeles did not return calls by press time.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:02 PM

Chrysler Plans Major Increase in Second-Half Ad Spending

Expects to Hike Outlay in Certain Months for Remainder of 2006

Chrysler Group's advertising spending "is going up dramatically" in the later part of this year, President-CEO Tom LaSorda said here today after a speech to the Automotive Press Association. The automaker will more than double spending "in certain months" compared with what was spent in the first half of 2006, he said.

The outlay will go partly toward its new-model launches. George Murphy, senior VP-marketing at Chrysler, told Advertising Age in June the automaker was conserving ad dollars from the first half of the year for the eight new-product launches in the later part of the year. Those launches include the Dodge Nitro sport utility vehicle, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Ram 3500, Chrysler Aspen SUV and Chrysler Sebring sedan, and for Jeep, the Patriot, Compass, an all-new Wrangler and the first four-door Wrangler. The marketer spent $527 million in U.S. measured media in the first half of this year, according to TNS Media Intelligence.

But the company is also planning some branding ads that will hit on the corporate blending of DaimlerChrysler's American and German engineering. Mr. LaSorda declined to discuss what form the next round of the "Dr. Z" ads with DaimlerChrysler Chairman Dieter Zetsche will take; the initial "Dr. Z" spots left airwaves about a month ago.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 4:00 PM

Mercedes To Introduce Three Diesels in 2008

Mercedes-Benz said it would introduce to the U.S. market in 2008 three diesel models – the M and GL SUVs and R-Class sport wagons equipped with the automaker's Bluetec emissions technology and a 3.0-liter, V-6 diesel that could achieve 35 miles per gallon, reports The Los Angeles Times.

Unlike the "hands-off" clean diesel engine unveiled by Honda, the Mercedes system requires motorists to periodically replenish the urea to ensure clean emissions. Mercedes will design the vehicles to meet the California's tough emissions standards.

Posted by Frank at 3:55 PM

Toyota Prepares To Adjust To Slow Start for New Tundra

Toyota's concern over fuel costs has caused the automaker to prepare for a slow sales start for the newest version of the Tundra pickup truck, set to go on sale in February 2007, reports The Wall Street Journal.

One measure Toyota is considering is to impose more manufacturing flexibility in its U.S.-based truck assembly plants in order to produce a broader range of light trucks – pickup trucks and truck-based SUVs -- on a given assembly line, thus absorbing any possible slips in product sales.

Toyota manufacturing officials say they have also begun exploring the possibility of bringing more truck-based vehicles to the automaker's Princeton, Indiana plant. The new Tundra's chief engineer, Yuichiro Obu, thinks the truck should be able to sell on its merits, which include: segment-leading capabilities, aggressive styling, a comfortable and quiet cabin, fuel economy, quality and durability.

Posted by Frank at 3:55 PM

Kerkorian Looks to Raise Stake in GM

Kirk Kerkorian, billionaire investor and top stakeholder for General Motors, told the automaker in a letter released today that his investment firm, Tracinda Corp., was considering buying an additional 12 million shares.

Kerkorian also called on GM's board to take a "strong" role in reviewing a potential alliance with Nissan-Renault, saying the possible tie-up remained an important opportunity for the automaker, reports Automotive News. A purchase of 12 million for Tracinda would bring Mr. Kerkorian's stake to 12 percent of the company. Going over 10 percent would require several regulatory approvals, because GM owns banking and insurance interests.

Posted by Frank at 3:54 PM

Doubt Is Cast On Industry Alliance Following Comments by GM Leaders

The first official meeting between GM CEO Rick Wagoner and Renault-Nissan Chief Carlos Ghosn ended in Paris yesterday with both sides issuing statements indicating the companies would continue to explore the proposed industry alliance through mid-October.

This morning; however, on opening day of the Paris Motor Show, comments made by GM Vice Chairman Robert Lutz and Wagoner showed for the first time signs that GM may be backing away from a deal with Renault-Nissan. "We are in the throes of a revolution at General Motors. For the first time in our almost 100-year history, during the last 18 months, we have gone from a loose financial grouping of four regional auto companies that had very little to do with each other to being one unified company," said Mr. Lutz.

Both Wagoner and Lutz were focused on the numerous restructuring plans GM itself had undertaken with success and was still discovering, separate from any savings that could result from a deal with Renault and Nissan. "We are for, absolutely, resolutely for whatever creates the greatest value for the General Motors shareholder," Mr. Lutz said.

But both he and Wagoner voiced frustration with Ghosn and other Renault executives who have discussed the negotiations in interviews this week. Talk of a possible upfront payment was rumored to be one option floating around after Wednesday's meeting and one idea reported on in The Wall Street Journal this week.

According to The New York Times, Nissan executives were stunned by the possible demand, "It woke us up," said Dominique Thormann, an executive VP at Nissan North America and one of Ghosn's closest associates. Thormann says, Mr. Ghosn called the idea "nonsense" and said it would be "against the spirit of the alliance."

In effect, Mr. Ghosn said, G.M. would be disproportionately sharing in the benefit of an alliance, which Renault and Nissan estimate could result in savings of as much as $10 billion. When asked yesterday whether he would continue to seek a North American partner if the GM talks do not bear fruit, Mr. Ghosn replied, "You're totally right," sparking more speculation for eventual talks with Ford.

Posted by Frank at 3:53 PM

Big Year for Small Cars

Sales in the small car segment this year will near 2.5 million, the highest total since 2001, reports USA Today. The segment has enjoyed a huge sales boost this year amid high gasoline prices, added safety features, and more vehicle choices.

Small cars will account for 31.5 percent of the total passenger car market, up one percentage point from last year. Market research firm AutoPacific predicts that the market share of small cars will continue to climb through 2010. "Small cars and CUVs are going to rule," says George Pipas, market analyst for Ford Motor. That's bittersweet news for Detroit, he adds, because 72 percent of small cars sold are international brands.

Posted by Frank at 3:52 PM

New Car Price Cuts On the Way

The Wall Street Journal reports that GM, Ford and Chrysler may be moving away from high manufacturer incentives and rebates and looking towards value pricing and production cuts in order to get more in line with actual transaction prices and spur sales amid turbulent times.

Chrysler, for example, has lowered prices on all its Pacifica models, now down an average of $1,300, despite added safety and performance features. Meanwhile, the dollar amount paid by the consumer from 2006 to 2007 models remains relatively unchanged. Rising competition is leading to subsequent price cuts on international nameplate models such as Volkswagen, Hyundai, and Toyota.

VW said this week that it is pursuing a new pricing strategy that offers lower sticker prices while maintaining a high level of standard features; Toyota has cut prices on the 2007 Highlander Hybrid an average of 5.9 percent from 2006 model year prices. And the base Hyundai GLS Santa Fe model for 2007 starts at $21,595, down $700 from the 2006 model despite an additional third row of seating.

Posted by Frank at 3:51 PM

New Smart Park System Underscores Toyota's Relentless Push to Be No.1

In its relentless effort to meet the wants and needs of American consumers, Toyota has developed a new Lexus LS 460 Sedan which allows the car to park itself, with the driver playing a mere supporting role.

The LS 460, equipped with an industry-first eight-speed automatic transmission, a state-of-the-art aluminum V-8 engine that cranks out 380 horsepower, and an expected 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway, "represents... most of the reasons why Toyota is widely expected to become the world's No. 1 automaker sometime within the next two years," according to The Wall Street Journal.

Toyota, on its "technical tour de force," expects to sell 400,000 Lexus cars worldwide this year, and aims to close in on 500,000 next year. To view a demo of how the LS 460 can park itself, click here.

Posted by Frank at 3:50 PM

100 Plus Lawmakers Favor California Emissions Standards

More than 100 lawmakers urged the EPA to allow California to go ahead with new greenhouse gas limits on cars and trucks, reports The Hill. The proposed standards have sparked a court battle between state lawmakers and the automakers, who claim the state is exceeding its regulatory authority by effectively imposing mileage standards on cars and trucks, a power reserved for the federal government.

The letter, spearheaded by Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA) along with Rep. Sherwood Boehlert (R-NY), says California's new rule should be approved based on the Clean Air Act of 1970, which allows the state to develop its own standards on auto emissions as long as they aren't less rigorous than the federal standards.

Republican Reps. Chris Shays and Nancy Johnson of Connecticut, Curt Weldon (R-PA), David Reichart (R-WA), and Charles Bass (R-NH) also signed the letter. California's new standards start with the 2009 model year and are to be phased in over a period of eight years. The letter says the standards would cut "global warming pollution from new vehicles by almost 30 percent" by 2016.

Posted by Frank at 3:48 PM

GM To Ask for Compensation From Nissan, Renault

General Motors is prepared to tell Nissan and Renault today that it will require a multibillion-dollar payment from the two automakers in order to agree to a three-way alliance. GM would ask for the money to compensate for the greater value the automaker believes it would bring to any partnership, reports The Wall Street Journal.

The planned demand likely throws a wrench in the proposed alliance, and shows how far apart both sides are in reaching an agreement. Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn seeks a sweeping alliance which includes his companies taking ownership stakes in GM, but such a deal is unlikely to be offered or, in turn, accepted by GM Chief Rick Wagoner. Wagoner will face his board of directors on Oct. 3, at which time he will lay out his management's analysis that an alliance would favor Nissan-Renault rather than GM. A final decision is expected to be made by October 15.

Posted by Frank at 3:48 PM

Chrysler Announces '07 Model Incentives

The Chrysler Group told dealers of new incentives for several of its large 2007 vehicles last Friday despite complaints from some dealers that it has been hard to sell the remaining 2006 vehicles.

Chrysler expanded incentives to include rebates through Saturday of up to $2500 on 2007 minivans and the following models: Dodge Ram, Dodge Dakota, Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the six-passenger Pacifica, reports The Detroit Free Press. The automaker also announced lease pull-ahead offers on select 2007 models.

Posted by Frank at 3:47 PM

Fed Warns of Inflation, Cites Autos and Housing as Weak Points of the Economy

Challenging speculation that interest rates will start going down next year, a top official at the Federal Reserve said on Monday that the economy is doing well but inflation remains a concern, reports Reuters.

"It is my considered judgment that the recent tempering of U.S. economic growth to a more sustainable rate, combined with the lagged effects of our 17 prior quarter [percentage] point rate increases, should act to lower the inflation rate over time. However, if this proves not to be the case, appropriate action will have to be taken," said the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Richard Fisher.

Fisher cited two weak points of the economy to be autos and housing, but noted conditions in his bank's region showed improved general business conditions and the highest capital spending levels since August of 2004.

Posted by Frank at 3:46 PM

Renault Executive Says GM Must Pay More Attention to Toyota

Renault's head of Product and Strategic Planning Patrick Pelata is quoted today in The Wall Street Journal as saying General Motors did not share the same sense of urgency as Renault and Nissan to fight rival Toyota, and that GM needed to confront Toyota's global expansion drive.

Talking to a group of U.S. journalists, Pelata said that he had warned GM Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer Frederick Henderson that if GM delayed solving its performance issues, "it's just going to get worse." Pelata added that members of GM's negotiating team appeared weary of a possible tie up with Renault-Nissan because of GM's past experiences with global alliances. Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn and GM Chief Rick Wagoner are scheduled to meet in Paris this week to further discuss the possibility of an alliance.

Posted by Frank at 3:45 PM

Chrysler Looking to Finalize a Subcompact Partnership by End of 2006

Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda said on Monday the automaker aims to finalize by the end of this year a partner to build and launch a subcompact car, reports Reuters.

LaSorda also said the company has not ruled out China as an export hub for the new car. "We know we can't do it alone. The capital expense alone would be very high," he said. "If we cannot find a partner with a profitable business case we will not go into that segment."

LaSorda confirmed that the company had been in talks with automakers in Europe and Asia. Yesterday, Bloomberg reported on a story which first appeared in Germany's Der Spiegel magazine, claiming that DaimlerChrysler was close to reaching an agreement to sell Chinese-built Chery automobiles in the United States, and that the automaker may later develop and produce cars with Chery.

Posted by Frank at 3:44 PM

September 27, 2006

Statement: General Motors, Renault and Nissan alliance discussions

General Motors, Renault and Nissan today said that a meeting was held between Carlos Ghosn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Renault, SAS and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Rick Wagoner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Motors, Corp., regarding ongoing discussions concerning the possibility of creating an industrial alliance among these three companies.

Through the work of the three study teams, our companies continue to explore the potential opportunities of an industrial alliance. The teams are conducting a thorough and objective analysis of potential synergies between all three companies with a focus on how an alliance could generate significant shareholder value for each company. Following today's meeting, it has been confirmed that the teams will continue the studies through to the planned mid-October completion date.

No further information will be provided at this time.

Posted by Frank at 4:16 PM

September 26, 2006

2007 Mazda RX-8: The Rotary Revolution Keeps Rolling

Rotary-Powered RX-8 Remains the Only Rotary-Powered Mass Production Vehicle in the World

High-powered, lightweight and perfectly balanced for nimble handling and supreme control, the Mazda RX-8 is unlike any other sports car in the world. From the industry’s only rotary engine to the innovative free-style doors, the RX-8 is a sports car like no other.

The 2007 model-year edition continues to push the parameters of the sports car segment, this year with only minor updates. New for 2007, the Grand Touring model offers available Sand leather-trimmed seats, while the Touring and the Grand Touring models add a standard 6-disc CD changer. Two new exterior colors are available on all 2007 RX-8 models – Crystal White Pearl and Stormy Blue Mica.

“Since its creation, the RX-8 has continued to win rave reviews from the automotive press,” said Tetsu Nakazawa, RX-8 vehicle line manager. “The RX-8 is a sports car built for the real world; ideal for zooming around a track, but equally suitable for taking the kids to soccer practice. It is a true sports car that can pull double duty."

The 2007 Mazda RX-8 is available as either a 232-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed manual transmission, or a 212-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed automatic with steering- wheel-mounted paddle shifters for a Formula 1-style driving experience (the change in horsepower ratings from 2006 is due to the new SAE rating standards). Both automatic and manual transmission cars come equipped with power windows, mirrors and door locks, cruise control and an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers.

RENESIS ROTARY ENGINE

The lifeline of this powerfully agile sports car rests underneath the hood thanks to its advanced RENESIS ( Rotary Engine ge nesis – or rebirth of the rotary engine) engine. The Mazda RX-8 remains the only mass produced rotary-powered passenger car in the world.

By turning a triangular rotor in a cocoon-shaped combustion chamber, the RX-8’s rotary engine efficiently performs the four processes of intake, compression, combustion and exhaust. The RENESIS engine is remarkably smooth and high revving — all the way to 9,000 rpm (7,500 rpm on Sport A/T–equipped models) — and offers a smaller engine footprint than traditional internal combustion engines (some 60 percent smaller and lighter than a comparably powered V-6, and 40 percent smaller and lighter than a four-cylinder). In fact, the packaging and styling that define the RX-8 would not have been possible had Mazda engineers chosen a conventional piston engine.

Improving upon 40 years of rotary designs, the RENESIS engine features side intake and exhaust ports with nearly 30 percent more intake area and twice as much exhaust area than its predecessors. The efficiencies gained through larger intake and exhaust ports exclude the need for forced induction.

The RX-8’s normally aspirated 1.3-liter engine might appear diminutive to the untrained eye when compared to large-displacement V-8s or heavyweight V-10s or

V-12s. However, through the incredible efficiencies of a rotary powerplant, an advanced three-stage intake system and an electronic throttle, the RENESIS engine delivers smooth, linear power on a grand scale. The 2007 RX-8 does not sacrifice emissions for power, though. Through improvements to the

port design, overlap between the intake and exhaust ports has been eliminated, significantly reducing exhaust emissions, improving fuel economy and allowing the car to meet the strict Tier2 Bin 5 Federal emissions classification. The effort made by Mazda engineers to improve emissions is a prime example of the concern for environmental impact maintained throughout the development process.

By placing the powerplant low and far back in the engine bay, in what Mazda calls an advanced front-midship layout, the center of gravity is lowered, which in turn improves vehicle balance. In addition, the fuel tank is placed ahead of the rear axle, and all seating is within the wheelbase and track of the car. Combined, these factors contribute to a perfect 50/50 vehicle weight distribution, low yaw-inertia movement and superb handling characteristics. With such excellent balance, it is little wonder the RX-8 feels right at home on the twists and turns of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, negotiating a tight freeway onramp or in stop-and-go traffic.

A RACE CAR AT HEART

The RX-8’s demeanor on the track is not overlooked by the motorsports community. The same RENESIS engine found in production RX-8s is used in the professional Formula Mazda series, a popular open-wheel racing series run on the nation’s most demanding race tracks. Formula Mazda is widely regarded as a training ground for developing drivers looking to build a career in motorsports. The fact that the series uses a showroom-stock, non-modified RENESIS engine is a testament to the power, reliability and light-weight of the RX-8 powerplant.

The RX-8 also campaigns in the Grand American Road Racing Association’s Grand Am Cup Street Tuner (ST) division. The ST division consists of production cars driven straight from the showroom to the race track with limited racing modification. Here, the superb handling characteristics and near-bulletproof RENESIS engine already have taken the RX-8 to victory circle many times, including the 2005 drivers’ and manufacturers’ championships, and all indications point to many happy returns.

SUSPENSION AND STEERING

The RX-8 uses an aluminum double-wishbone front suspension, reducing unsprung weight over the use of steel components. By mounting the upper and lower arms on a highly rigid sub-frame, the long arms ensure linear alignment changes throughout the jounce and rebound of the front wheels. All wheels receive mono-tube gas-filled shock absorbers designed with large-diameter internal pistons and valving, which offer excellent road feedback and a smooth ride.

An electric rack-and-pinion power-steering system transmits just the right amount of road information back to the driver. Mazda engineers have chosen to pursue their own path by using an electric motor for steering assistance rather than a conventional power-steering pump. The electric motor provides additional assistance at low speeds to ease parking and reduces steering assistance at higher speeds to provide greater road feel, responsiveness and feedback. And, in keeping with the rest of the development on RX-8, it is far lighter and easier to package than a conventional power-steering rack.

PRACTICAL STYLING

The RX-8’s unique “freestyle” four-door design is proof that a true sports car does not need to sacrifice space or convenience for performance. The advanced design of the rear-hinged rear doors, provides a large door opening, allowing adult-sized passengers to easily enter and exit the vehicle. This design is also advantageous when securing a baby or a small child in the back seat. With a spacious rear seat area providing ample passenger room for four full-size adults, and enough trunk space for a weekend’s worth of luggage, this sports car proves its versatility.

Taut muscular lines give RX-8 the liberating look of an athlete in motion. The muscular styling maintains classic sports car proportions while adding a Zoom-Zoom edge that is unmistakably Mazda. Integrated throughout the exterior is the unique triangular rotor design, which clearly can be seen in the front fascia, head lamps, hood and rear bumper valence.

The RX-8’s exterior styling presents a genuine sports car form, while the interior boasts a comfortable and intelligently designed cabin. An extremely low cabin floor allows the seats to be mounted low in the chassis, which, along with a low instrument cluster and hood, enhance driver visibility. Mazda designers concentrated on the shape of the front seat backs and the rear seat cushions to ensure adequate rear-seat knee room. Front seat slide-rails are positioned to allow maximum leg room for rear-seat passengers.

The rotary design element is incorporated through the interior of the RX-8 in creative ways, appearing in the seats, center console, shift knob and emergency brake. The stylish cabin also evokes a sense of luxury and high-end quality. Mazda’s design team examined every aspect and component of the interior and has created an elegant, driver-centric atmosphere. Through the use of advanced ergonomic research, Mazda engineers established improper seating posture to be a cause of driver fatigue and built in optimum support in the front seats to help offset discomfort. In addition, the soft blue lighting used in the RX-8’s instrument cluster was found to reduce eye fatigue and strain.

SUPERIOR SAFETY

When designing the RX-8, safety was given as much of a priority as was performance. For Mazda, the safety process incorporates both accident avoidance and accident protection. In effect, this approach to safety means the RX-8 can help the driver avoid various dangers and protect occupants in the unfortunate event of a collision. In rollover tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the RX-8 achieved an impressive five-star rating.

Mazda engineers integrated numerous active and passive safety elements throughout the car. Active safety features, which require input from the driver, include the use of large ABS-equipped disc brakes on all wheels as well as precise steering and suspension systems. Dynamic Stability Control (standard on manual transmission cars with Sport Package, optional on RX-8s with automatic transmissions) delivers a superior level of handling that can be disabled when driving and road conditions allow safe operation.

Passive systems, or those that take effect automatically without the driver’s involvement, also are present throughout the RX-8. Despite the absence of a center B-pillar, the RX-8 has an exceptionally rigid body, accomplished through the use of a series of locking pins, which hold the doors together and bind each door directly into the roof and floor. Integrating the frame components helps dissipate crash energy through the vehicle’s structure.

Other standard passive systems on the RX-8 include front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags. Additionally, the front end and engine bay have ample crumple zones, the front seats are designed to reduce whiplash injuries, the brake pedal is designed to break away in the event of a collision of sufficient force to protect feet and legs and all four seating positions are fitted with three-point seatbelts. Even pedestrian protection was considered, as the RX-8 is fitted with Mazda’s "shock-cone" hood design that yields more to the impact of a pedestrian onto the hood than a standard design, yet is strong enough to not deform in normal use.

TRIM AND WARRANTY

Four trim packages are available for both automatic and manual transmission RX-8s: a Standard Model, a Sport Package (adds HID headlights, fog lamps and DSC to M/T cars; adds 18-inch wheels, a limited-slip differential, sport-tuned suspension and larger front disc brakes to these items for Sport A/T cars), a Touring Package (adds moonroof, auto dimming mirror with Homelink® and Bose® audio system with 6-disc auto changer to the Sport Package offerings) and a Grand Touring Package (adds power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, leather seating surfaces with the option of Sand leather trim — heated in front — and heated outside mirrors to the Touring and Sport Packages). A DVD-driven satellite-navigation unit is available as a stand-alone option and uses a single DVD for mapping the entire United States and portions of Canada.

All 2007 Mazdas come with a roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

throughout the United States and Canada. In addition, a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. Also, all 2007 models receive a five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

Posted by Frank at 7:13 AM

Toyota Prius, the Most Fuel-Efficient Midsize Car In America, Adds Sporty New Touring Edition For 2007

The Toyota Prius, the best-selling gas-electric hybrid vehicle in the United States and the world, offers a more engaging driving experience for 2007 with the availability of a new Touring Edition model. In addition, the 2007 Prius gains standard driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags, which were previously optional.

The new 2007 Prius Touring Edition provides more spirited driving responses due to its European-tuned suspension and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Prius Touring Edition is distinguished externally by the new wheels, a larger rear spoiler, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps and integrated fog lamps.

Toyota Prius is the most fuel-efficient midsize sedan in America, delivering on the promise of exceptional fuel efficiency without compromising performance, comfort or safety. For 2007, a new Camry Hybrid joins the Prius and Highlander Hybrid SUV in the Toyota lineup. Last year, Toyota boosted Prius production to keep up with demand for this innovative hybrid model.

"Prius was already the most successful hybrid car in the market, and the rising gasoline prices seen in 2006 have only added to its appeal," said Jim Lentz, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. executive vice president. "Toyota is the market leader in hybrid vehicles, and we are committed to expanding this technology."

Prius provides the best fuel efficiency ratings of any midsize car sold in America, with estimated EPA ratings of 60 mpg in city driving, 51 mpg on the highway and 55 mpg in combined driving. The seemingly "reversed" city/highway figures reflect the unique powertrain that is optimized for maximum efficiency in the kind of slow-and-go driving that urban commuters experience

Prius achieves its remarkable fuel efficiency while providing the kind of performance customers expect from a four-cylinder, automatic transmission midsize car, with zero-to-60 mph acceleration in about 10 seconds.

Dramatic Design, Midsize Roominess and Outstanding Utility
The Prius rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase that allows generous interior room and a smooth ride. The five-door liftback design not only looks like nothing else on the road, it is also one of the most aerodynamic production vehicles in America. Its super-low 0.26 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to minimize interior noise and enhance fuel mileage.

With its "monoform" design, the Prius provides 96.2 cubic feet of passenger room, making it a midsize car. The rear seat in Prius provides a generous 38.6 inches of legroom. Rear cargo room measures 14.4 cubic feet. The liftback design, combined with the standard 60/40 split fold-down rear seatbacks, gives the Prius outstanding cargo capacity and flexibility.

Hybrid Synergy Drive
The current Prius was the first Toyota product to employ Hybrid Synergy Drive, the company's third-generation gas-electric hybrid powertrain technology. Hybrid Synergy Drive is defined as a "full hybrid system," which means it is capable of operating in gas or electric modes, as well as a mode that combines the power of the gas engine and electric motor.

In the Prius, Hybrid Synergy Drive combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson Cycle gasoline engine and an electric drive motor. The gasoline engine produces 76 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft. of torque. As on all other Toyota passenger car engines, Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps to optimize power delivery across the engine speed range.

The permanent-magnet electric drive motor produces its maximum power of 50 kW (67 horsepower) from 1,200-1,540 RPM, and peak torque of 295 lb.-ft. from 0-1,200 RPM. The Prius produces 110 combined horsepower with its gas engine and electric motor.

The electronically controlled planetary gear-type continuously variable transmission does not have fixed gear ratios, but rather provides infinitely variable ratios in response to driving conditions.

A regenerative braking system further boosts system efficiency: when the Prius is coasting or the brakes are applied, the electric motor functions as a generator, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes and transforming it into useable electricity to recharge the batteries.

Driving Prius
One of the most remarkable features of the Toyota Prius is what the driver does not feel. The computer-controlled powertrain seamlessly blends power from the gasoline engine, the electric drive motor and the generator. The driver typically does not feel the vehicle changing operational modes.

The Prius uses an electronically controlled "by-wire" throttle. A by-wire shift control replaces the traditional gearshift lever and allows tap-of-the-finger shifting using a small joystick mounted on the dash.

The Prius driver can monitor electric-gas power distribution through the Hybrid Synergy Drive system on the standard seven-inch touch-panel display monitor. This screen also displays navigation information on vehicles equipped with the optional navigation system.

The Most Stringent Emissions Certification
The Prius produces over 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle. The Prius has been certified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) in California and those states adopting California standards. In the rest of the country, Prius is certified as Tier 2, Bin 3. In addition, In California and states adopting the California rules, Prius is certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV). The AT-PZEV certification requires the SULEV exhaust standard linked with the ability to meet a zero-fuel-evaporative standard, a 150,000-mile durability demonstration, extended emissions system warranty, and technology deemed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to advance future fuel cell vehicles.

Advanced Safety
Prius is engineered to provide the level of safety that a family car buyer expects. Passive safety features include front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, three-point seatbelts for all rear seating positions, advanced dual front airbags, and standard driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags.

The driver and passenger advanced dual-stage front airbags inflate according to collision severity. A front seat passenger sensor is equipped with an occupant classification system to verify the front passengers' weight category to determine whether the airbag should inflate.

An available back-up camera automatically projects an image of what the lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the dash-mounted LCD display when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

Prius also features a high level of dynamic driving control. The standard anti-lock brake system (ABS) integrates Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution. Brake Assist can help apply maximum braking pressure in an emergency stop.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is available as an option. VSC helps keep the vehicle going on its intended course by detecting front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting to control either condition with torque intervention and/or by braking individual wheels.

A standard tire pressure monitoring system can detect a significant loss in pressure in one or more tires and alert the driver by a warning light.

Premium Amenities
The Prius offers the amenities expected in the midsize class. Premium seat fabric and a textured instrument panel center accent the high-tech interior styling. Prius offers enhanced comfort with the option of luxurious leather seating (choice of two colors) and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Customers can also order an audio system upgrade that features MP3 capability and a mini-jack port located in the center console. The mini-jack port enables connectivity by most portable music players and allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the audio system.

The standard automatic air conditioning system uses an electric-powered air compressor. Not only does this improve fuel efficiency, it ensures passenger comfort even when the car is running only on the electric motor.

The steering wheel features fingertip controls for both the air conditioning and the six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system. A rear window intermittent wiper, cabin air filtration, cruise control, heated side mirrors, power windows and door locks and remote keyless entry are all standard on the Prius.

The high efficiency of the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive enables Prius to offer a wide array of comfort and convenience options. Available options include an auto-dimming rear view mirror, anti-theft system, fog lights, garage door opener, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, voice-activated navigation system and a JBL Premium AM/FM six-disc in-dash CD changer audio system with satellite radio capability and nine speakers.

The optional JBL audio system integrates Bluetooth® technology, which provides a hands-free communication system. Cellular phones with built-in Bluetooth® compatibility allow the driver and passengers to make and receive hands-free calls. A call can be dialed by using the multi-information display screen's keypad, and incoming calls can be answered and ended by pushing a button located on the steering wheel.

When a call comes in, the audio system is automatically muted, so the driver or passenger does not have to fumble with radio controls. The Prius stereo speakers act as the phone receiver and transmitter.

With the optional Smart Key, the driver carries a light, compact key fob. When the driver pulls the exterior door handle, an on-board sensor recognizes the signal from a key in his pocket and automatically unlocks the doors. Having been security-cleared, the driver merely pushes a "power" button located on the dash, presses the brake pedal, taps the gear-selector and drives away.

Long Warranty Protection
Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.

Posted by Frank at 7:09 AM

2007 Toyota Corolla Matrix -- the Vehicle that started the CUV Trend

With its unique blend of sporty styling and practicality, the Toyota Corolla Matrix crossover utility vehicle (CUV) has become a major influence on modern compact car design. The five-door Matrix models provide exemplary fuel efficiency, too, with EPA estimated mileage ratings as high as 30 mpg city and 36 mpg highway in models with the five-speed manual transmission.

Matrix is available in two model grades – Standard, and the XR with enhanced content. The XRS model has been discontinued for 2007, as has the four-wheel drive option for other models.

Matrix has been especially successful at reaching younger buyers because it provides such a compelling value in a spirited and uniquely styled package. At the same time, its versatility and excellent fuel efficiency have made Matrix popular with buyers of all ages.

Toyota designed the Matrix at Calty Design Research, its design studio in Newport Beach, Calif. “Edge-web” detailing blends sharply creased surfaces with rounded web-like contours to create strong, flowing character lines. The three-window profile gives the driver excellent outward visibility. Inside, Matrix presents a sporty environment, highlighted by an instrument panel featuring Optitron gauges set in cylindrical, chrome-rimmed housings.

Versatility and Room Without Bulk
The Matrix offers the versatility of a small SUV, including ample room for five passengers, with high seating points providing easy access and a command view of the road. All grades include a driver's seat with height adjustment. The rear seat provides a generous 36.3 inches of legroom, which is on par with many midsize cars.

For cargo carrying, Matrix provides 21.8 cubic feet of room behind the rear seat, which expands to a maximum of 53.2 cubic feet with the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded down. The high roofline of the Matrix makes it easy to carry large, bulky items.

The load floor is perfectly flat and has a durable, washable surface. Eight tie-down hooks and two cargo nets are standard equipment, and customers can outfit Matrix with available accessories, including a cargo mat, and even a pet screen. Toyota dealers offer an accessory roof rack and rear bumper step cover.

The front passenger seatback folds down, to either serve as a table for other passengers or enable the Matrix to carry long objects. Adding to the versatility, the rear glass hatch can open separately using a dash-mounted release or the keyless entry remote control on models so equipped.

Safety and Security
Passive safety technology in the Matrix includes advanced deployment front airbags, pretensioners and force limiters for the front seatbelts and side-impact door beams. Front seat side and curtain shield airbags are optionally available. An anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) can be added as an option.

When equipped with the automatic transmission, Matrix models offer an optional Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system with Traction Control. The VSC system helps maintain direction during cornering by manipulating engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence when it detects tire slippage. The VSC option includes a traction control function that helps reduce tire slippage during acceleration.

Brake Assist, also included with the VSC option, is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the anti-lock brake system (ABS), Brake Assist supplements the applied braking power until the driver releases pedal pressure.

All Matrix models feature a tire pressure monitoring system with a dashboard monitor light. For security, all models also feature an anti-theft engine immobilizer. The rear seat is equipped with three top-tether child restraint system attachment points and the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) uniform child restraint anchorage system.

Models with power door locks (standard on XR) and the automatic transmission feature a shift-linked system that locks the doors automatically when the shift handle is placed into “Drive” and the car is driven a short distance. The system unlocks the doors when the shifter is placed in “Park” and the ignition is switched off.

Sporty Performance
Matrix models are powered by a dual overhead-cam (DOHC) 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 126 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 122 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,200 RPM. Toyota's advanced Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) optimizes power delivery throughout the engine speed range.

The engine produces at least 90-percent of its peak torque from just 2,000 RPM to the 6,000 RPM redline, giving the Matrix especially good low- and mid-range response. With the available four-speed electronic automatic transmission, the Matrix models have excellent EPA city/highway estimated mileage ratings of 28/34 MPG. The Matrix features standard P205/55 R16 tires. Both grades add optional aluminum 16-inch alloy wheels, and the XR grade offers optional aluminum 17-inch alloy wheel.

Toyota Value and Peace of Mind
Because it is based on the Corolla platform, Matrix gives the customer the peace of mind of driving one of the world's most reliable and durable vehicles. Cutting edge in form and style, Matrix is also aimed at keeping with the Toyota tradition of value and low cost of ownership.

Generous standard equipment for Matrix includes air conditioning with a cabin air filter; an AM/FM/CD sound system with four speakers; a three-spoke tilt steering wheel; height adjustable driver's seat; intermittent wipers, a digital clock and a digital outside temperature gauge. The XR grade adds power mirrors, power windows and door locks; a leather steering wheel; remote keyless entry; variable intermittent wipers and an intermittent rear window wiper.

The XR offers a JBL premium AM/FM stereo with in-dash 6-disc changer as an option. The Matrix Standard model can be optionally equipped with many features from the XR grade, individually or in packages.

Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

Posted by Frank at 7:00 AM

Toyota Corolla Wins Customers With Dependability, Fuel Efficiency And Value

The fuel efficient Toyota Corolla enters its 37th year in America as one of the industry's most trusted cars. The roomy, comfortable 2007 Corolla is rated an EPA estimated 41 miles per gallon in highway driving.

Consistently ranked among the best in reliability and dependability, Corolla is the world's best-selling car, with more than 30 million sold over four decades. A key to Corolla's ongoing success in the U.S. market is that it has always appealed to a broad spectrum of buyers. The 2007 model continues that tradition, with three model grades offered: the very well equipped CE, the sporty S and the top-of-the-line LE. The XRS model has been discontinued for 2007.

Corolla has become the world's favorite compact car by exceeding customers' expectations for value and quality in this segment. Corolla is also an enjoyable, comfortable car to drive, with low ownership costs thanks to outstanding reliability and fuel efficiency, as well as excellent resale value. The Corolla name has always been synonymous with excellent fuel efficiency. The 2007 Corolla line offers EPA-estimated fuel mileage ratings of 32 mpg city/41 mpg highway with the standard five-speed manual transmission or 30/38 mpg with the optional four-speed electronically controlled automatic.

Corolla also offers advanced safety for its segment, including the optional Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system available in LE and S models in conjunction with the optional automatic transmission. VSC helps maintain directional control during cornering by manipulating engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence when it detects tire slippage. The VSC option also includes Brake Assist, plus traction control that can help reduce tire slippage during acceleration.

Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the anti-lock brake system (ABS), the system supplements the applied braking power until the driver releases pedal pressure.

All Corolla models equipped with ABS use a tire pressure monitoring system with a dashboard monitor light. On models with power door locks and the automatic transmission, the doors lock automatically when the shift handle is placed into “Drive."

Roomy and Comfortable, Yet Highly Nimble
High sitting positions make it easy to enter and exit the Corolla and provide excellent all-around visibility. The spacious trunk provides 13.6 cubic feet of carrying space, and a standard 60/40 split fold-down rear seat for all model grades greatly enhances Corolla's versatility.

The Corolla's substantial feel extends from its efficient packaging to the driving experience. Occupants enjoy a quiet and smooth ride. At the same time, the Corolla is highly nimble, due to a super-stiff body structure, refined suspension tuning and standard variable-assist power rack-and-pinion steering.

As an example of Corolla's suspension refinement, its shock absorbers use linear control valves that react differently to harsh or soft bumps. The CE, S and LE grades come standard with 15-inch steel wheels. Standard tires on the CE model are P185/65 R15, and the S and LE grades are P195/65 R15. Fifteen-inch alloy wheels are available as an option for both S and LE models. An optional 16-inch aluminum alloy wheel has been added to S model.

Standard safety technology in the Corolla includes advanced front airbags, pretensioners and force limiters for the front seatbelts and side-impact door beams. Front seat side and curtain shield airbags and an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are available as options for all model grades. The rear seat is equipped with the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) uniform child restraint anchorage system.

Fun To Drive
Corolla's sophisticated dual overhead cam (DOHC) 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine produces 126 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 122 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,200 RPM. Toyota's advanced Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) gives the Corolla engine a liveliness that belies its size by optimizing power delivery throughout the engine speed range.

The engine produces at least 90 percent of its peak torque from just 2,000 RPM to the 6,000 RPM redline, giving the Corolla sporty response and easy highway merging. Equipped with the standard five-speed manual transmission, the Corolla can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just under nine seconds.

The Toyota Value Standard
Toyota eliminated the traditional notion of a “base" model by equipping the Corolla CE grade with extensive standard equipment, along with interior fabrics and textures designed to impart a high-quality appearance and feel. Standard equipment includes air conditioning with a cabin air filter; an AM/FM/CD sound system with four speakers; anti-theft engine immobilizer; power mirrors; tilt steering wheel; intermittent wipers; tachometer; digital clock; digital outside temperature gauge; a driver's seat-height adjuster; a trunk lamp, and a dome light with delay.

Design details contribute to the high-quality/high-value feel, as well. For example, the exterior door handles are color-keyed to the body, and the steering wheel and dashboard are color-keyed to the upholstery. Both the S and LE grades add AM/FM/CD sound system with six speakers, map lights and color-keyed body side moldings as standard.

Sporty Corolla S
The sporty Corolla S model features “factory custom" exterior styling, including smoked headlight lens-extenders, integrated front fog lamps and an aerodynamic body package with color-keyed front and rear underbody spoilers, rocker panel extensions and rear mudguards.

Standard equipment for the Corolla S model includes air conditioning; power door locks; driver's seat height adjuster, and an AM/FM/CD stereo with six speakers.

While the current Corolla differs dramatically from the first-generation model of four decades ago, it remains true to the ideals that have made Corolla the world's all-time best-selling passenger car: affordability, high quality and reliability.

Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

Posted by Frank at 6:55 AM

September 25, 2006

Nissan starts building 2007 Altima Starts at Smyrna Plant

Production of The Fourth Generation of Nissan's Best-selling Model Rolls Off the Line

Employees from Nissan North America’s corporate headquarters joined the manufacturing team in Smyrna to celebrate the start of production of the company’s best-selling model in the U.S. market: the Nissan Altima. The first 2007 production model rolled off the assembly line today.

Manufacturing Vice President Bill Krueger presented an oversized key to Marketing Director Fred Suckow at the mid-morning ceremony, symbolically handing off the all-new Altima from the manufacturing plant to the sales and marketing team. The Altima sedan then drove through a banner stretched across the Trim & Chassis final line.

“The Altima is an important car in the Nissan lineup, and the new model builds on the strengths of the former model,” said Krueger. “We took a lot of actions to assure a high-quality launch. We completed two system trials and two production trials to verify parts, systems and equipment. Dedicated launch teams made the Altima the total focus of a group of managers and production technicians, and we had dedicated trainers on each shift. We installed new equipment in several zones, such as the rear subframe decking device, sunroof assist device and front-end module decking device. And while we were working within all our functional groups, Nissan engineers were also working closely with suppliers to assure their preparedness.

“We’re confident that all these actions and many others will result in a high-quality vehicle that will provide a lot of value for our customers.”

The all-new 2007 Nissan Altima is evolutionary in design, but revolutionary in its platform and hardware while offering new levels of quality feel, enhanced comfort and available convenience features.

Along with its distinctive styling, the fourth-generation Altima is built on the all-new Nissan “D” platform with improved body rigidity and a redesigned suspension.

The new Altima also offers Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), a choice of the award-winning VQ-series 3.5-liter V6 or powerful 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engines, and a long list of technology features – including available Intelligent Key with Push Start Ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, RearView Monitor and an advanced touch-screen navigation system.

In calendar year 2005, Nissan North America sold 255,371 Altimas. Altimas produced in Smyrna are exported to Gulf Coast Countries, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and other countries. In fiscal year 2006, Nissan will export approximately 40,000 Altimas.

Since the production launch of the first Altima on June 11, 1992, the Smyrna Plant has produced 2,448,367 units to date. With the addition of 284,640 units built at Nissan’s vehicle assembly plant in Canton, Miss. – where production started on June 14, 2004 – Nissan has produced 2,733,007 Altimas in North America to date.

The Smyrna Plant employs 6,500 and represents an investment of $2.1 billion. In addition to the Altima, the plant produces the Nissan Maxima, Nissan Xterra, Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan Frontier.

Posted by Frank at 2:20 PM

Toyota Introduces Sixth-Generation 2007 Camry; Adds Camry Hybrid

The all-new, sixth-generation 2007 Camry carries on the Toyota tradition of legendary quality, dependability, and reliability that has made Camry America's best-selling car four years running and eight of the past nine years. Launched in spring 2006, the new Camry is completely redesigned for the 2007 model year and also offers the all-new Camry Hybrid equipped with Toyota's industry leading Hybrid Synergy Drive.

The 2007 Camry's athletic exterior design signals a departure from the more upright style of its predecessor. Fashion has not taken a back seat to function however, as the 2007 Camry delivers more room, comfort and safety technology than before. At the same time, the new-generation Camry puts a sharper focus on driving dynamics, especially in the sporty SE grade. Performance has been enhanced across the line, with the Camry Hybrid setting a new standard for performance / fuel efficiency balance.

Camry Hybrid, featuring a new version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, joins the Prius and Highlander Hybrid as the third hybrid vehicle in Toyota's line-up. Other 2007 Camry models are available with a newly enhanced 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that is new to the line.

Along with its gains in performance, safety and comfort, the 2007 Camry delivers the exceptional value that has helped make this model so popular. Integral to Camry's value is outstanding fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated 40 mpg city/38 mpg highway ratings for the Camry Hybrid. Four-cylinder Camry models have city/highway fuel economy ratings of 24/34 mpg (24/33 with automatic transmission), and V6 Camry models return 22/31 mpg EPA estimated rating.

The 2007 Camry is built on a longer wheelbase than before (109.3 in., up from 107.1 in.), yet, with its shortened rear overhang, maintains the same overall length as the previous model. The track is wider, with the wheels pushed toward the extremes of the car's corners. The Camry front fascia conveys the Toyota identity with its distinctive new grille design. The headlights incorporate projector-type low beams for better illumination and distinctive style.

The new Camry offers more interior space – in particular, fore-and-aft space – but with about the same external footprint as before.

Structure and Safety
The Camry's body structure is designed to absorb collision-impact forces and help minimize impact deformation to the passenger cabin. High-strength steel is used for B-pillar and rocker panel reinforcements to help manage overall body deformation in the event of a side collision. Inside the cabin, even the seat frames are designed to help absorb side collision loads.

Dual-stage advanced SRS airbags, seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag, are standard on all Camry models for 2007. The front seats use Toyota's Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) seat design.

All 2007 Camry models come equipped with a standard anti-lock brake system (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The Brake Assist feature is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the anti-lock brake system (ABS), Brake Assist supplements the applied braking power until the driver releases pedal pressure.

Available as an option, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control regulates engine output and brake application on individual wheels to help control loss of traction in turns.
Camry Hybrid is equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system that helps control vehicle traction and stability through throttle control, brake application on individual wheels, and even minor steering correction if circumstances require.

Driving Dynamics
The 2007 Camry offers a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor. Front suspension is via MacPherson struts, and a dual-link strut rear suspension system helps provide an optimal balance between smooth ride and secure handling. Even with its lengthened wheelbase, the 2007 Camry has a reduced turning radius for even greater maneuverability than before.

Setting the stage for improved grip and road feel are upgraded wheel sizes for all Camry grades. For 2007, Camry CE, LE, XLE and Hybrid models ride on standard 16-inch wheels of either steel (CE, LE) or aluminum (XLE, Hybrid), with the sporty SE model getting aluminum six-spoke, 17-inch wheels as standard.

Toyota designed the Camry SE model to appeal even more to driving enthusiasts (or turn any sedan driver into a driving enthusiast). Numerous chassis modifications include springs, anti-roll bars, shock absorbers and bushings with firmer, sportier values than those used in the other grades. To increase torsional rigidity, the SE model gains underbody stabilizing braces and a V-shaped brace between the trunk and cabin.

Tuning the SE chassis went together with optimizing underbody aerodynamics. Making the underbody as flat as possible helps to smooth and speed the airflow under the car. Engineers also tuned the balance between front and rear downforce.

Brake discs also were enlarged for improved stopping power and brake feel, with ventilated 11.65-inch front discs and solid 11.06-inch rear discs on all Camry models for 2007.

Enhanced Four-Cylinder, New V6 and New Six-Speed Automatic
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that is standard across the Camry line has been upgraded for 2007 for enhanced performance and smoothness. Intake and exhaust systems have been optimized, internal friction reduced, and engine block rigidity increased. The 2.4-liter engine develops 158 SAE horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 161 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,000 rpm and can be mated to a five-speed manual transmission or an electronically controlled five-speed automatic.

The DOHC 3.5L V6 available in the LE, SE and XLE grades delivers a substantial performance boost over the 3.0-liter and 3.3-liter V6 engines offered in the 2006 model year Camry. The V6 produces 268 SAE horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,700 rpm. The chain-driven camshafts employ Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds.

The V6 Camry models come equipped exclusively with a new six-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential mode for manual shifting when desired. The compact six-speed unit uses 21 percent fewer parts than the five-speed automatic transmission it replaces. A newly developed gear train featuring a Ravigneaux-type compound planetary gear set reduces transmission size and weight, as well as internal friction.

An array of technologies helps to enhance transmission smoothness and efficiency, including a quick-response, low-friction clutch pack; an ultra-flat, low-inertia torque converter; and high-response and low-slip clutch packs. In addition, new electronic and hydraulic control systems incorporate an intelligent shift control that adapts shifting strategy in response to driver input. Kick-down response is twice as fast as the previous Camry automatic.

Camry Hybrid
The 2007 Camry Hybrid builds on the Toyota's decade of award winning automotive hybrid technology. Its Hybrid Synergy Drive System produces a combined 187 horsepower – or nearly the same as the 2006 model year Camry 3.0-liter V6 engine. This system varies power between gas and electric, or combines both, as needed.

The first half of Hybrid Synergy Drive consists of a 147-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine coupled to a electronic continuously-variable transmission. The second half combines a small, high-torque 40-hp electric motor, an ultra-small inverter with a specially designed compact battery, and a transaxle to seamlessly combine power from the electric and gasoline engines.

Because there are driving situations in which the gas engine in a Toyota hybrid completely shuts down, air conditioning and power steering systems are driven electrically, rather than by the gasoline engine. In addition, an “ECO” button limits energy consumption by the climate control system and under certain conditions can help improve fuel economy.

Special attention paid to vehicle underbody aerodynamics, including the use of wheel spats and underbelly pans, helps yield a coefficient of drag (Cd) of just 0.27, which helps increase fuel economy. The 2007 Camry Hybrid is certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), just one of a handful of cars that meets this strict standard (Toyota Prius is another.) It is over 70% cleaner for smog-forming emissions than the average new car.

In addition to its Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, Camry Hybrid features a wide assortment of comfort and convenience features as standard equipment. With a base price of $25,900, only $1,200 over the base price of the premium XLE four-cylinder Camry sedan, the Camry Hybrid proves an excellent value.

More Room, More Comfort for 2007
The 2007 Camry's roomier interior shows the attention to detail that has helped America's most popular passenger car set such high standards for sedan comfort. Redesigned front seats played a role in adding a feeling of spaciousness to the Camry cabin, and increased fore-aft adjustment length helps to enhance comfort for larger drivers and passengers.

A more forward cowl enhances the sense of openness and room. The two-level dash and console improve instrument visibility, the sense of roominess and usability of all controls. Gauges are larger than before, with larger lettering and longer needle pointers. The odometer and trip meters are illuminated at all times to improve daytime visibility.

The audio/climate control panel switches are slimmer and neater than before, with larger lettering and with surface illumination for easier use at night. A standard multi-information display provides outside temperature readings, estimated range, average speed, average fuel consumption and trip odometer.

Rear seat passenger comfort, always a priority in Camry, is even greater in the 2007 models. Available rear legroom now measures 38.3 inches, up from 37.8 inches in the previous-generation Camry. A 60/40 non-reclining fold-down rear seat is standard on CE and LE grades.

To enhance comfort for rear-seat XLE passengers, seatbacks now recline eight degrees from their standard position. Rear-seat passengers also get dedicated personal reading lamps on moonroof-equipped Camry models.

The four-cylinder XLE model is exclusively equipped with special seat fabric designed to be gentle on the skin. This new fabric is treated by the Fraichir process, in which it is coated with a naturally occurring component called Sericin that has been extracted from silkworm cocoons and refined. This substance contains a natural moisturizing component. All Camry models equipped with the V6 engine feature available leather-trimmed seats.

With the 60/40 fold down rear seats, Camry offers 15 cubic feet of luggage space (14.5 cu. ft. with the reclining or fixed rear seats, and 10.6 cu. ft. in the Camry Hybrid). The trunk is equipped with a grocery hook, a utility box and a luggage net (on XLE) for added convenience.

Designers built in many storage spaces around the front-passenger area, including console side-pockets, marking the first use of this storage option in a sedan. Storage options also include a large front console box equipped with an accessory power socket and an auxiliary audio jack - this box is big enough to store nine CD jewel cases. Other storage areas include an accessory box behind the shift lever containing another accessory power socket, a 354 square inch rear-console box with a card holder and a movable tray, and, adjacent to the shift lever, holders for two large cups.

A new dual-zone automatic climate-control system that is standard on the XLE and Hybrid models uses Plasmacluster™ ionizer technology to help reduce airborne mold spores, microbes, fungi, odors, germs and bacteria inside the passenger cabin.

Camry Grades
The Camry CE grade comes equipped as standard with air conditioning with micro dust and pollen filter; power windows and door locks; color-keyed power side mirrors; cruise control; halogen headlamps with automatic on/off feature; tilt and telescopic steering wheel; vehicle immobilizer, and a six speaker 160-watt digital AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary audio jack. All Camry audio systems can play CDs with MP3 files.

The Camry LE adds an in-key remote keyless entry and eight-way-adjustable power driver's seat.

The Camry SE gets a distinctive look with a standard full body kit that positions the car 0.4-inches (10 mm) lower than other Camry grades, plus 17-inch aluminum wheels, a distinct black, honeycomb-style grille and smoked tint halogen headlamps. Inside, the SE is distinguished by a unique sport-trimmed interior in dark charcoal or Ash gray with a leather-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel and blue-colored optitron gauges.

The XLE's list of standard features includes an upgraded dual-zone automatic climate control system with steering-wheel controls, Plasmacluster™ ionizer and rear vents; a premium 440-watt JBL audio system with Bluetooth™ technology for hands-free calling with compatible phones; wood-style trim; power glass moonroof; reclining rear seats; fog lamps, and aluminum wheels.

The Camry Hybrid offers a standard equipment level similar to the XLE grade and adds a standard Smart Entry and Smart Start system – push-button start allows drivers to lock, unlock, or start the car just by carrying the Smart Key on his/her person.

The premium JBL system, standard in the Camry XLE and Hybrid, includes an AM/FM/six-disc in-dash CD changer with eight speakers and an eight-channel, 440-watt digital amplifier for low distortion and faithful reproduction of a wide range of musical types. The system includes Bluetooth® technology for hands-free telephone compatibility.

Options available on select Camry grades include a power tilt/slide moonroof; heated front seats; voice-command DVD navigation system; leather-trimmed seating; rear spoiler, and the Smart Entry and Smart Start system.
When the available, fifth-generation voice-activated DVD navigation system is added to the Camry (SE, XLE, Hybrid), the premium JBL audio system integrates that system and comes with a four-disc in-dash CD changer.

Warranty
The 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid are covered by Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty that applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion perforation with no mileage limitation.

The Camry Hybrid also has an eight-year/100,000 mile warranty that covers the hybrid–related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module, and inverter with converter.

Posted by Frank at 2:13 PM

Toyota Financial and mtvU Launch Sweepstakes for College Students to Win Toyota Yaris

What college student couldn't use a free set of wheels? Whether you're racing to class, the library or managing a crazy social life, any college student could benefit from having a reliable – and let's face it – cool car. Enter Toyota Financial Services (TFS) and mtvU, MTV's 24-hour college network.

Beginning Sept. 25, the two organizations are sponsoring a sweepstakes where students can fill out a short survey at mtvU.com for a chance to win a 2007 Toyota Yaris.

At the end of the entry period (Dec. 1), one student will be randomly selected as the ultimate winner of a brand new Toyota Yaris and Toyota Auto Care Pre-paid Maintenance package (provides extra bonuses like free maintenance and roadside assistance.)

Another perk? Those who fill out the survey and enter the contest receive tips from TFS on building strong credit and how to make the dealership process smoother – valuable information students won't likely get in their college courses. Tips will be featured on mtvU.com.

"This is the first time Toyota Financial Services has sponsored a sweepstakes like this – and we're excited to be reaching out to college students in the process," said Maria Tirado, TFS marketing manager. "The Yaris is a great vehicle, and an added benefit is being able to provide some understanding to our potential youth customers about the finance process through a great network like mtvU."

TFS and mtvU teamed up earlier this year to take a college student interested in buying a car through the financing experience from start to finish in "real world-esque" style.

This "Reality Checks (and Balances)" video spot featured a student making his way through the credit jungle of information and onto a Toyota vehicle lot where he found out that the dealership wasn't a jungle. Plus, he found out about programs like Toyota's College Grad program that helps a qualified applicant get into a Toyota.

Posted by Frank at 2:10 PM

Factsheet: Toyota Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV)

What is the Toyota FCHV?
The Toyota Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV) is based on the popular Toyota Highlander, a five-passenger, mid-size sport utility vehicle. It utilizes the same hybrid technology perfected in the Toyota Prius.

How Does it Work?
The FCHV's fuel cell system features four hydrogen fuel tanks, an electric motor, a nickel-metal hydride battery, and a power control unit. The hydrogen gas is fed into the fuel cell stack where it is combined with oxygen. The electricity produced by this chemical reaction is used to power the electric motor and to charge the battery.

The power control unit decides when to use the battery and when to use the fuel cell stack to power the vehicle, the same mechanism that manages the gasoline engine and battery in the Prius. The fuel cell Toyota has a range of up to 180 miles and a top speed of 96 miles per hour.

Why is the FCHV better for the environment?
The FCHV is smog-free. The only by-product is water vapor. It has been certified as a zero emissions vehicle by the California Air Resources Board.

Where are the Toyota FCHVs?
In December 2002, Toyota began limited marketing of the FCHV in the United States and Japan. A total of 18 are now in service. Four are with the University of California, three are with the California Fuel Cell Partnership, one at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. and 10 with Japanese government agencies and private companies.

Who is Driving the FCHVs?
Toyota has enlisted the University of California, Irvine and the University of California, Davis to test different aspects of consumer acceptance and market dynamics of fuel cell vehicles. Each campus is leasing two of the 19 Toyota FCHVs. The National Fuel Cell Research Center at UC Irvine researches product performance, reliability and usability. UCI in turn leases the vehicles to Irvine based technology companies Orthodyne Electronics and Horiba Instruments Inc.

The Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Davis uses its fuel cell Toyotas to study consumer awareness of and attitudes toward hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and the use of hydrogen fueling infrastructure.

Is the FCHV Safe?
After many months and 80,000 miles of road and test track evaluation and rigorous crash testing, Toyota’s hydrogen fuel system has proven to be reliable, durable and user-friendly.

How Much Does the FCHV Cost?
It’s nearly impossible to put a price tag on it. The FCHV represents culmination of more than a decade of intense research and development. It is one of the most technologically-advanced vehicles on the planet.

Posted by Frank at 2:04 PM

Toyota International Teacher Program Sends U.S. Teachers to the Galapagos Islands

20 Educational Ambassadors Participate in Study Tour

Twenty U.S. teachers, chosen as educational ambassadors through the Toyota International Teacher Program, will spend 10 days this fall exploring the rich environmental heritage of the Galapagos Islands, a designated World Heritage site off the coast of Ecuador.

Now in its ninth year, this is the first time the Toyota program will send teachers to the legendary Galapagos Islands. There they will observe and explore environmental projects, talk with experts and community leaders and participate in activities that encourage global awareness about environmental stewardship

A key component will be a joint professional development forum of American and Galapagueño teachers.
They will spend two days together and will share innovative approaches to teaching environmental stewardship across all subjects and disciplines.

The delegation of 20 U.S. teachers represent 10 states this year – Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Texas and Washington, D.C. The selected teachers will bring their unique perspectives to those they meet in the Galapagos Islands, and upon their return to the U.S., expand their own curriculum.

"This is a new opportunity for teachers to receive a global environmental perspective that they can take back to the classroom and their communities," said Michael Rouse, corporate manager, philanthropy and community affairs at Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. "We are proud to provide teachers a chance to explore environmental sustainability as it relates to the balance of humans and nature."

Toyota has been involved in the Galapagos Islands since 2001, when, in response to the Jessica oil tanker spill, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) approached Toyota for assistance in rethinking transportation and energy use on the islands. Toyota and WWF developed the Galapagos Energy Blueprint, which outlines a long-term vision and implementation plan to transform the high-polluting energy systems on the islands to cleaner, sustainable systems. Toyota's partnership with WWF has grown over the past five years, and Toyota has supported and/or funded many of the projects outlined in the Blueprint, including oil recycling programs, renovation of the main oil depot for the islands, renewable energy workshops for high school teachers and recycling programs. Education and community outreach have been key components of all of these projects.

Funded through an annual $1.2 million grant from TMS, the Toyota International Teacher Program is the only one of its kind sponsored by a major U.S. corporation. This year's trip to the Galapagos Islands will take place October 27 through November 8 and will include many forms of rigorous physical activities while visiting several locations in the Galapagos Islands, including the islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal.

The 20 educators traveling to the Galapagos Islands teach a variety of subjects and were selected based on their professional and leadership qualifications, as well as their plans to incorporate their experiences and research into their curriculum. To be eligible, teachers must be a U.S. citizen, employed full-time as a secondary classroom teacher (grades 7-12) and have a minimum of three years teaching experience.

The Institute of International Education (IIE) in Washington, D.C., the nation's most experienced non-profit international exchange organization, administers the program. “The Toyota International Teacher Program provides teachers with experiences and tools they can use to enable their students to think and act on a cooperative and global basis,” said IIE President and CEO Dr. Allan E. Goodman.

The study tour to the Galapagos Islands is just one of the professional development programs for teachers that Toyota will sponsor over the coming year. In the 2006-2007 school year, Toyota also will offer study visits to Japan and Costa Rica. Each program offers country-specific themes.

Founded in 1957, TMS is the sales, marketing, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion in the United States, marketing products and services through a network of 1,415 dealers in 49 states.

Posted by Frank at 2:03 PM

New VW ad spot ignores critics, sticks with smash-bang ending

New Spot Featuring Reference to Old Spot Again Ends in Car Wreck

Well, we sure saw that coming.

No, literally. We saw it coming. Just before the two women get broadsided in the new Crispin Porter & Bogusky spot for the VW Passat, we saw the other vehicle. For one second it was in the previous shot, looking fairly benign, but it was clearly headed right for them.

Forshadowed
Plus, duh, you'd have to say the collision was somewhat foreshadowed in the dialogue.

PASSENGER: So they're just driving along talking about whatever and suddenly ... wham.

DRIVER: I know. I saw it.

PASSENGER: I just think maybe they went too far.

DRIVER: I think where they went was "real."

PASSENGER: It was just shocking for the sake of shocking.

DRIVER: Look, you think being in an accident is not a shock? That's why they call it an accident.

PASSENGER: Yeah, but you're watching TV and a commercial comes on ...

Preordained wreck
That's when the SUV slams into them -- which you'd have to be oblivious not to have anticipated, even if you somehow missed the glimpse of the sports ute. In fact, never mind "foreshadowed." This wreck was preordained.

And yet, as the lady says, it's still shocking -- because the collision shot repeats exactly the effect of the commercial the women are discussing: the horrifying suddenness of a real accident ... in an instant. TV usually employs the long, exterior view. Here it's a tight, helpless interior: screeching tires and then that sickening, strangely muted thump-crunch. Then maybe you're dead. Or maybe, if you're as lucky as these women, your car is equipped with side-curtain airbags and you climb out, shaken, to wait for the cops.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 1:52 PM

Nationwide gas prices down nearly 24 cents

U.S. retail gas prices dropped nearly 24 cents a gallon in the past two weeks, the third consecutive decline since a mid-August peak, according to a survey Sunday.

The national average for self-serve regular was about $2.42 on Sept. 22, down from about $2.65 two weeks earlier, according to the Lundberg Survey of 7,000 gas stations across the country.

Mid-grade prices averaged $2.53 a gallon, while premium cost $2.64.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 1:48 PM

Dream Endorser: Tiger Woods as a Giant of Marketing ROI

Golf Superstar May be History's Most Effective Product Spokesperson

NEW YORK (AdAge.com) -- For Nike Golf, he's the $650 million man. For General Motors Corp., he's the magician helping Buick shake its image as an old-people's car, lowering the median buyer age by a decade. And for EA Sports, he's part of a sports-game team that's helped it triple sales since 1999. "Tiger Woods might be the single most impactful endorser in the history of marketing," said Paul Swangard, managing director for the University of Oregon's Warsaw Sports Marketing Center.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 1:45 PM

Ford brings Edge CUV to market under $26K

* All 2007 Ford Edge models feature standard side curtain air bags, AdvanceTrac® with RSC®, best-in-class 265 hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine and fuel-saving 6-speed transmission.
* Front-drive models to begin under $26,000, including destination, with all-wheel drive available for less than $28,000.
* Paced by new entries like the Ford Edge, CUV segment is expected to grow into the largest segment in the industry with sales of 3 million units by the end of the decade.

Ford will launch its all-new and highly anticipated 2007 Ford Edge crossover with a sticker price below $26,000, Cisco Codina, group vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, announced today at a meeting of the Midwest Automotive Media Association.

At the meeting Codina reaffirmed that between now and the end of 2008, 70 percent of the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup by volume will be all-new or significantly freshened. That includes strong new vehicles in new segments like the Ford Edge, which goes on sale in November, as well as a new 2008 Ford Super Duty pickup, which will be revealed next week at the State Fair of Texas and will go on sale in January.

“Each new product will be a milepost on Ford’s road to recovery,” Codina said. “Inside and outside the company, we have called the Edge launch the single most important launch for the company this year.”

The Right Product at the Right Time
The five-passenger 2007 Ford Edge has a bold design with a stylish, functional and clever interior. It features a fuel-saving powertrain, with Ford’s all-new 3.5-liter V-6 engine with best-in-class 265 horsepower mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Its highway fuel economy is anticipated to be in the mid-20s. Edge also features standard side curtain air bags and standard AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control). A laptop-friendly center console and standard MP3-player input jack also are included.

In addition to optional all-wheel drive, the Edge is available with innovative features including a class-exclusive, all-glass available panoramic VistaRoof™ which gives a grand view of the sky and can open for a sense of freedom that front and rear passengers can enjoy.

Anticipation Grows

The new Edge already is generating excitement among consumers. Since the vehicle was unveiled in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, more than 930,000 consumers have visited the Edge Web site at www.fordvehicles.com/edge Traffic on the Edge Web pages has jumped more than 125 percent since June, after Ford added a “crossover” tab on the fordvehicles.com home page. Driven by the Web, auto shows and other marketing activities, more than 45,000 consumers have asked for more information about the Edge and 3,200 have shared information from the Edge Web site with a friend.

Two distinct trends have helped spur crossover growth: car buyers seeking more spacious and flexible interiors along with the confidence of AWD, and traditional SUV buyers looking for more fuel-efficient and maneuverable vehicles. This year, crossovers are expected to outsell the traditional SUV segment for the first time ever. Through August, industry crossover sales are up 8 percent at 1.62 million units. Already the fastest-growing vehicle segment in the United States, crossovers are expected to be the largest segment in the industry with sales of about 3 million units by the end of the decade. By 2009, the segment is expected to include more than 70 CUV models.

Ford Motor Company outpaced the competition in CUV growth in 2005 and will stake an even stronger claim over the CUV market with the introduction of the new Edge, along with the new Lincoln MKX. As vehicle segments continue to shift in the marketplace, Edge will play a critical role in retaining existing Ford customers as well as drawing new customers into Ford dealerships. Ford expects that approximately 45 percent of Edge buyers will be customers who are new to Ford Motor Company.

“The success of the Edge will prove that we can bring the same customer-focused intensity we have in trucks to new segments of the market,” said Codina. “The total Edge package – design, flexibility, fuel economy, fun-to-drive character and value – gives us high confidence that we will win new customers.”

Exceptional Value

The 2007 Ford Edge SE features a base manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $25,995 for the well-equipped front-wheel-drive model and $27,645 for the all-wheel-drive model.

Key standard features of the Ford Edge SE include:

* Bold exterior styling
* Best-in-class 3.5-liter V6 mated to 6-speed automatic transmission deliver 265 hp and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. (Fuel economy is expected to be in the mid-20s for highway driving.)
* Front-wheel drive
* Rear spoiler
* Dual exhaust
* Center console with class-leading flexibility
* Second-row 60/40 split fold-flat seats
* Class-exclusive MP3 audio input jack
* 17-inch painted aluminum wheels
* Class-leading standard safety features including: industry leading AdvanceTrac® with RSC®, ABS, Safety Canopy ™ with rollover sensor, front- and front seat side-impact air bags, occupant classification system, adjustable head restraints and LATCH system

The Ford Edge SEL offers many additional appearance, comfort and convenience features, including chrome tipped dual exhaust, a 6-disc CD changer, Convenience Package, body color rear spoiler and fog lamps. It starts at $27,990 for front-wheel drive models and $29,640 for all-wheel drive models.

Option packages available on the Edge SEL include:

* Premium Package – Dual electronic temperature control with particulate air filter; exterior puddle lamps; heated seats and heated exterior mirrors; leather trimmed front and second row seats; memory seats; memory exterior mirrors and steering wheel climate controls
* Seating Flexibility Package – 6-way power passenger seat, front-row passenger fold-flat seatback; second-row EasyFold™ remote release seatback; leather trimmed front- and second-row seats; memory seats.

Options exclusive to the Edge SEL include:

* 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels or 18-inch painted aluminum sport wheels
* Audiophile sound system with CDX6, nine speakers and steering wheel controls
* DVD-based Navigation system with Audiophile sound system
* Reverse sensing system
* Rear-seat DVD Entertainment System
* Class-exclusive two-panel panoramic VistaRoof™ with dual power shades

Options available on all Edge models include:

* All-wheel drive
* SIRIUS™ satellite radio with six-month subscription
* Class II Trailer Towing (for up to 3,500 lbs. maximum towing capability)

Way Forward Commitment: Deliver Outstanding Customer Value

Ford is accelerating the rollout of many of the technologies featured on the Ford Edge across the Ford and Lincoln Mercury product lineup.

“The Ford Edge’s success will validate many of our key product strategies – including better design, higher quality, more safety, added content, lower prices and higher performance,” Codina said.

* Stability control – By the end of 2009, all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury retail cars and trucks will feature standard electronic stability control. AdvanceTrac® with RSC® is now standard on traditional SUVs and will be standard on all CUVs by the end of 2008.
* Side air bag protection – All retail products will have side impact protection by the end of 2009. All SUVs and CUVs will be equipped with rollover-protecting side air curtains.
* 3.5L V6 engine – this engine will eventually power one out of every five Ford Motor Company vehicles in North America
* All-wheel drive – Ford Motor Company will have 28 vehicles with AWD technology this year
* 6-speed automatic transmission – Ford plans to produce about 1.3 million 6-speed transmissions annually by 2008
* DVD-based navigation system – For 2007, Ford is doubling the number of products with an available navigation system
* SIRIUS satellite radio – For 2007, Ford is quadrupling the number of products with available SIRIUS satellite radio
* Auxiliary audio jack – Ford is increasing the number of models with auxiliary audio jacks from zero to nearly half of its lineup

Posted by Frank at 1:41 PM

Ford places among "100 Best" list for working mothers

Annual initiative honors women- and family-friendly benefits and policies

Dearborn, Mich., Sept. 25, 2006 – Ford Motor Company today was named one of the 100 Best Companies for working mothers by Working Mother magazine.

The "100 Best" initiative celebrates employers whose groundbreaking benefits – from flexible schedules and child care to innovative leave policies for new parents – are helping to redefine workplace standards across the nation. This is the tenth year Ford has achieved this honor.

“Ford Motor Company is exceptional for its continuing commitment to working mothers, and we salute it for making the 100 Best for 2006,” said Carol Evans, chief executive officer of Working Mother Media. “Every year we see companies upping the ante, establishing new paradigms for quality of life among their employees and redefining the status quo for workplaces across the country. Among the many worthy entrants, the winners really set the gold standard.”

“Ford Motor Company is pleased to once again be honored by Working Mother magazine for providing avenues for our employees to balance the demands of their careers, with the needs of their families and personal lives," said Felicia Fields, vice president, Human Resources, Ford Motor Company. "At Ford, we strive to foster a work environment that attracts and retains the best people and allows them to reach their full potential. By leveraging the talents and efforts of our workforce, including our working mothers, we create a stronger, more innovative company that benefits everyone."

Profiled in the October issue of Working Mother magazine, Ford is cited for fostering a work environment that is especially hospitable to all women, including working mothers. By incorporating family-friendly policies such as flextime, leave time, childcare and telecommuting, the 100 Best are creating corporate cultures that encourage the retention and promotion of their female employees.

Posted by Frank at 1:37 PM

Mercedes to offer new diesel engine in all 50 states

Diesel M-, R- And GL-Class SUVs First To Meet Stringent BIN5 Certification

MONTVALE, NJ -- Mercedes-Benz today announced that it intends to offer BLUETEC diesel-powered versions of its popular M-, R- and GL-Class sport-utility vehicles in the United States beginning in CY 2008. Delivering a perfect balance of power, fuel economy and range, the new BLUETEC SUVs are set to be the world’s first diesel-powered vehicles to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s stringent BIN5 emissions standards for all 50 states.

Developed by Mercedes-Benz, BLUETEC represents the world’s cleanest diesel technology and showcases several state-of-the-art engine and exhaust technologies, allowing the luxury manufacturer to offer their customers powerful SUV’s which are fuel efficient and environmentally responsible at the same time.

BLUETEC technology is especially important in helping to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Beginning in CY 2008, BLUETEC M-, R- and GL-Class vehicles will showcase AdBlue injection, a process that adds precisely measured quantities of a urea-based solution into the exhaust stream to help reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 80 percent.

Today’s announcement represents a significant step for the future acceptance of diesel vehicles in the U.S. market, which can contribute to significant fuel savings and a reduction in oil imports. This fact was confirmed in a study by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2004.

Margo Oge, head of its Office of Transportation and Air Quality, concluded that if only one-third of all light-duty trucks in the U.S. were operated with modern diesel engines, the country would save 1.4 million barrels of oil per day – equal to the amount of oil the U.S. currently imports from Saudi Arabia.

High Performance, Impressive Mileage and Extensive Range
The BLUETEC M-, R- and GL-Class are the latest additions to the Mercedes-Benz line-up of clean diesel vehicles. Poised to make its showroom debut in October 2006, the Mercedes-Benz E320 BLUETEC luxury sedan offers outstanding driving dynamics, unprecedented efficiency and impressive environmental compatibility.

Its powerful 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine combines the powerful torque of a large V8 engine with the low fuel consumption of a four-cylinder compact. Additionally, the E320 BLUETEC is the only diesel-powered vehicle in the U.S. certified to meet BIN8 emissions standards.

Posted by Frank at 1:35 PM

Long-awaited Return To Victory Lane Vaults Burton To Top Of The Standings

Jeff Burton Wins At Dover; Chevy Monte Carlo SS Drivers Capture Five Of Top-10 Finishing Positions

DOVER, Del. – Jeff Burton, No. 31 Cingular Wireless Monte Carlo SS, made the winning pass with just six laps remaining in the Dover 400 to capture his 18th NASCAR Nextel Cup Series (NNCS) career victory. After 175 races without a win, Burton's long-awaited return to victory lane is his first since joining for Richard Childress Racing (RCR) in late 2004. It is the 17th NNCS win for Chevy this season.

"I am just so appreciative of Cingular and all my sponsors and everybody on this car that stuck with us through some times that weren't so good," said Burton. I just want to thank Richard (Childress) for believing in me and for all the hard work that this team has done to resurrect our team and brought me back with it and I am so appreciative of it. I will take the points lead and a great weekend for RCR with the sweep, it is really good. I am really proud of the effort of everybody at RCR, not just my Cingular Chevrolet team, but all 360 employees at RCR. They have all stepped it up and are doing an incredible job."

The win is the third consecutive NNCS win for the Monte Carlo SS teams fielded by RCR; it comes on the heels of Kevin Harvick's (No. 29 Reese's/GM Goodwrench Monte Carlo SS) victories at Richmond, Va. and Loudon, N.H.

The win in round two of the Chase for the Nextel Cup championship (round 28 of the 2006 NNCS) puts Burton on top of the point standings, six points ahead of four-time NNCS champion Jeff Gordon (No. 24 DuPont Monte Carlo SS).

RCR swept both races at Dover International Speedway this weekend when Clint Bowyer, No. 2 AC Delco Monte Carlo SS captured his first NASCAR Busch Series win of the season on Saturday. Bowyer, No. 07 DIRECTV Monte Carlo SS, finished seventh in today's NNCS race.

"Chevrolet congratulates Jeff Burton on his much anticipated victory,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “We are so proud of the hard work from all our Chevy drivers and teams this season and today we celebrate with Richard Childress Racing and the entire No. 31 team on this hard-fought and long-awaited win. What an exciting finish. We salute them on their success.”

Gordon, who started on the pole, finished third in today's race and jumped from fourth in the standings to second.

Team Chevy Raybestos Rookie contenders Martin Truex, Jr., No. 1 Bass Pro Shops/Tracker Monte Carlo SS, Bowyer and Denny Hamlin, No. 11 FedEx Ground Monte Carlo SS, finished sixth, eighth and ninth respectively.

Chevrolet has already clinched the 2007 Manufacturers' Cup title in NNCS competition.

Bowtie drivers currently hold four of the top-five positions in the Chase. Following Burton and Gordon are Matt Kenseth (Ford), Hamlin and Harvick.

The series travels to Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan. for the third round of the Chase and race 29 of the 36-race season.

Current NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Manufacturer's Standings:
Chevrolet 213 points (17 wins)
Ford 161 points (5 win)
Dodge 158 points (6 wins)

Posted by Frank at 1:32 PM

OnStar by GM enhances TTY capability

Now deaf, hard of hearing, and speech-impaired subscribers can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with OnStar

Detroit – OnStar by General Motors announced a new TTY compatible in-vehicle device that will improve accessibility of OnStar services for deaf, hard of hearing and speech impaired subscribers. The OnStar TTY hardware is offered at little or no additional cost through the GM Mobility Reimbursement Program for eligible subscribers.

This dealer-installed option is available now on a wide range of 2007 model year GM vehicles including the Saturn Relay, Buick Terraza and Chevrolet Uplander.

Most in-vehicle services are available through OnStar TTY, including a link to Emergency Services, Roadside Assistance and access to OnStar’s Hands-Free Calling capability. This system is an industry first, leveraging the combined capabilities of GM and OnStar to bring the benefits of OnStar to a larger segment of society.

“If you are in need of help, you want to have confidence that you can communicate with OnStar and emergency personnel,” said OnStar President Chet Huber. “The TTY enabled system allows even more subscribers to take advantage of the added safety and security that comes with knowing OnStar is available in emergency situations.”

The system links subscribers to trained TTY Advisors at OnStar’s call centers 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

The TTY-enabled OnStar system comes equipped with three components – the OnStar Interface Module, a dial pad for making phone calls and a TTY device.

In order to use the OnStar TTY system the vehicle must be stationary. This feature is designed to help prevent drivers from being distracted so that they can devote their full attention to driving safely.

More information on this enhanced service can be found at www.onstar.com/tty. For more information on the GM Mobility Reimbursement Program visit http://www.gmmobility.com.

About OnStar by GM

OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the nation’s leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and communication services using wireless technology and the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite network. OnStar is available on more than 50 GM models for 2006. Over the next few years, OnStar Service will become a standard feature for one year for nearly all of GM’s retail customers in the United States and Canada , covering all segments and prices except for some commercial vehicles and the Chevrolet Aveo.

OnStar safety and security services include automatic notification of air bag deployment, stolen vehicle location assistance, emergency services, roadside assistance, remote door unlock, and GM Goodwrench remote vehicle diagnostics. OnStar Hands-Free Calling allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated calls from their vehicle. Hands-Free Calling requires a Hands-Free Calling enabled Vehicle, existing OnStar service contract and prepaid calling minutes. More information about OnStar can be found at http://www.onstar.com/.

Posted by Frank at 1:30 PM

Ford Bold Moves #13: The Edge

As Ford adjusts to a tough marketplace, the company launches a key vehicle in its new product line: The Edge. Get a behind-the-scenes look at bringing the latest CUV to market.

Posted by Frank at 1:29 PM

Ghosn, Wagoner To Meet in Paris this Week

Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn and General Motors Chief Executive Richard Wagoner plan to hold talks this week in Paris amid anticipation of a possible alliance, according to a report this morning by The Associated Press.

It was unclear whether the talks would occur before or after the opening of the Paris Motor Show, which begins Thursday with a media preview. Renault-Nissan and GM announced back in July a 90-day review of a possible alliance, and are expected to make a final decision by October 15.

Posted by Frank at 1:29 PM

Chrysler May Export Cars from China

Germany's Der Spiegel magazine reported Saturday that DaimlerChrysler is close to reaching an agreement to sell Chery-built automobiles in the United States, and that the automaker may later develop and produce cars with Chery, reports Bloomberg.

The German-American automaker had said last year it may export Chinese-made cars in order to cut its labor costs. CEO Dieter Zetsche is cutting production of vehicles in the U.S. in the face of a projected $1.5 billion third quarter loss in the Chrysler division.

Posted by Frank at 1:28 PM

Survey Says Gas Prices Impacting Buyer Decisions

According to a new survey by J.D. Power and Associates, several months of high gas prices have taken a toll on consumers shopping for new vehicles, who are now more frequently citing gas mileage as a reason for rejecting a vehicle.

Poor gas mileage is now the third-most frequently cited reason for rejecting a vehicle following "total price too high" and "total monthly payment too high." The study finds that nearly 17 percent of new vehicle shoppers cite gas mileage as a reason for vehicle rejection -- up from 13 percent in 2002. SUVs and pickup trucks are among the highest rejected vehicles due to gas mileage.

Posted by Frank at 1:28 PM

Honda will Launch Diesel Sedan in 2009

Honda announced plans to launch a sedan -- probably an Accord -- powered by a "superclean," four-cylinder diesel system in the U.S. by 2009, reports The Wall Street Journal.

The system consists of a diesel engine Honda has introduced in Europe, as well as devices that significantly reduce the polluting gases given off by diesel combustion. Honda is hoping that this system will win over American consumers who have long avoided diesel vehicles.

The new diesel system surrenders little horsepower or fuel economy. Honda is also working on a bigger V6 diesel system and will strive to offer diesel engines as a powertrain option in bigger vehicles such as the Acura MDX and the Honda Pilot, said Honda's CEO Takeo Fukui. "Gasoline-electric hybrids work well in small cars," said Fukui. "But with vehicles bigger than the Accord, we think superclean diesels are a much better way to go."

Posted by Frank at 1:27 PM

Inside Out Community Arts Receives Vehicle from Toyota to Transport L.A. Youth

Venice, CA - Inside Out Community Arts recently accepted the donation of a new Toyota Sienna minivan from Toyota Financial Services (TFS) to help shuttle kids around the community to Inside Out events and transport art materials and costumes.

Already the vehicle - colorfully wrapped in the participating students' artwork - has benefited multiple children, including two wheelchair-bound students, who without the van would not have been able to attend a 3-day camping trip in the Santa Monica Mountains where more than 100 inner-city middle school students wrote original plays and enjoyed nature.

"Sometimes we really are dependent on the kindness of strangers," said Camille Ameen, co-founder of Inside Out. "I'm so glad that we were linked up with Toyota. Their generous donation will help many of our students get to and from our programs safely so that they can truly enjoy and learn about the benefits of art and the rich experiences it brings to all of our lives."

L.A. locals can witness an aspect of the organization's work first-hand this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at their annual Youth & Family Court to be held at the Abbot Kinney Street Festival in Venice at the Abbot Kinney/Westminster Elementary School. The Court will feature rides, games, staged entertainment, art and recreational activities.

Additionally, interested donors can learn more about the Inside Out Community Arts organization and how to make a contribution by visiting www.insideoutca.org or calling 310-397-8820.

About Inside Out
Inside Out is a non-profit organization based in Venice, Calif. that provides after-school programs free of charge to economically disadvantaged middle school students, and community arts events throughout Los Angeles. Founded in 1996, their programs have directly served more than 3,000 youth and 30,000 audience members. Additionally, their efforts have earned them numerous accolades ranging from the Los Angeles Unified School District's President's Volunteer Service Award to national honors from the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities and the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities.

Posted by Frank at 9:02 AM

September 24, 2006

First Steel Beam Marks Official Beginning of Construction of Toyota's Woodstock Auto Assembly Plant

New plant to employ 2,000 employees; RAV4 production begins in 2008

Woodstock, Ontario - Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) celebrated the official start of construction of its new Woodstock assembly plant today. The first steel girder was placed with the help of Toyota Motor Corporation Executive Vice President Akio Toyoda. The new plant, which will employ 2,000, represents an investment of approximately $1.1 billion CAD and will be Toyota's second Canadian assembly plant. It is the first greenfield automotive assembly facility in Canada in almost 20 years.

The new plant, to be managed by TMMC, will open in 2008 and will have the capacity to build 150,000 RAV4 units annually. TMMC builds the Toyota Corolla and Matrix and the Lexus RX350 in nearby Cambridge, where it employs 4,500 team members, and has invested $3.2 billion CAD.

Mr. Toyoda said the Woodstock investment was a strong demonstration of the company's confidence in its Canadian operations. "With the placement of this steel today, we reconfirm our faith in our Team Members and our community. We look forward to a strong future in Canada, and I look forward to returning to Woodstock and renewing many friendships when the plant is operational."

TMMC President Ray Tanguay commented that Toyota was experiencing strong growth in Canada and North America. "This is an exciting time for TMMC. We are celebrating 20 years of vehicle manufacturing excellence in Canada, and now the beginning of a new milestone in Woodstock." He went on to observe, "This new facility strengthens Canada's automotive industry as a whole and will provide substantial benefits to existing Team Members, new Team Members, suppliers, and the communities where we do business."

TMMC has been manufacturing vehicles in Cambridge since November 1988. Original capacity was 50,000 units annually. By 2006, production had climbed to over 305,000 units.

Posted by Frank at 7:13 PM

How Hybrid Vehicles Work

Gas And Electric Combine For Incredible Mileage

Mention "hybrid" to people not familiar with current trends in automotive technology and the first thoughts that come to mind might well be of some sort of genetically engineered corn that gives more bushels per acre. But in vehicular terms, hybrid refers to a powertrain that combines two different methods of propulsion, each augmenting the other in a way that enhances the strengths and minimizes the shortcomings of each.

In very simple terms, a hybrid powertrain, as used today in a variety of applications, utilizes an engine that's burning a fossil fuel, combined with an electrical system made up of a motor, generator and battery. Depending upon the individual system, the gasoline engine may be able to drive the vehicle by itself, or it may drive the electrical system only (which in turn will actually drive the vehicle). Or the electrical system might be able to drive the vehicle by itself, or both systems may be able to work together to varying degrees.

The current automotive internal combustion piston engine has been developed to an impressively high state of refinement. It delivers power levels, meets emissions and fuel economy requirements, and satisfies customer demands for smoothness, quietness, reliability and cost that would have been considered unthinkable just a few years ago. Its emissions levels and fuel consumption can still be improved upon—although, admittedly, not by a lot. Plus there's a basic problem that faces almost every vehicle on the road: Each of them has an engine that is, most of the time, larger than it needs to be.

A typical four-door sedan may have an engine rated at, say, 200 horsepower. That vehicle requires the full 200 horsepower very little of the time, normally only for quick passing maneuvers or while climbing steep hills. The vast majority of the time the engine is operating at a small fraction of its full, rated output.

Once the sedan is accelerated up to freeway speed, as little as 20 or 30 horsepower may be needed to keep it moving. In fact, many drivers may seldom, if ever, call upon the full power output of the engines under their cars' hoods. What people really need is 200 horsepower every once in a while, maybe 100 horsepower from time to time, and about 30 or 40 horsepower most of the time. The fuel consumption and emissions benefits of such a powertrain should be obvious.

Could an electric car do that? The pure electric vehicle is quiet and smooth and generates none of the emissions currently regulated for vehicles with gasoline engines, but after over a century of research the electric vehicle still lacks a suitable battery and there is not a likely prospect of finding one on the horizon. The pure electric car has the same handicap it had 100 years ago—limited range.

Exacerbating the limited range are a couple of other major concerns: while a car with a gasoline engine can be completely refueled in a few minutes, literally hours are required to charge up an electric car. And while the gasoline vehicle runs just as well on the last drop of fuel as on the first, the further an electric car goes the more its performance drops—because the battery is discharging—so the last of its "range" is at a pace that becomes increasingly slow.

In simple terms, the electric car doesn't have enough when it's needed; the conventional gasoline car has too much when it's not needed. The hybrid solves both those issues.

The road vehicle, because it has to deal with the widely varying speeds and conditions of traffic, has a more difficult duty cycle. Starts, stops, short trips, family vacations, stuck in traffic jams—all these create fuel consumption and emissions problems. To deal with this, the typical automotive hybrid system is comprised of a relatively small gasoline engine, which drives either the wheels directly, or a generator, or both. There's also an electric motor, which drives the wheels, sometimes alone, or sometimes in concert with the engine. A battery pack supplies the electric motor, and a generator makes the electrical power to recharge the battery. Sophisticated electronic controls watch over all these parts. As software is to computers, it's the controls that make the whole package work in harmony.

Hybrid Synergy Drive
The most sophisticated production hybrid system is Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD). HSD is featured in the second-generation Toyota Prius, which launched in 2003 as a 2004 model year vehicle and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, which launched in 2005 as a 2006 model year vehicle.

Hybrid Synergy Drive in the Prius
With its Hybrid Synergy Drive, the Prius provides a case study of how these components work together. The Prius has a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine of 76 horsepower. With both the gas engine and electric motor, the Prius has a combined horsepower of 110. It's linked to the drive wheels and a generator directly via a unique transmission and, whenever it's running, it can also drive a generator that keeps the battery charged. The generator supplies electrical power to the electric motor or charges the battery, as needed.

Whenever the Prius is stopped, the gasoline engine is shut down. This means no unnecessary idling or fuel waste while stuck in traffic or at stop signs. When accelerating from rest at a normal pace, and up to mid-range speeds, the Prius is powered by the electric motor, which is fed by the battery. As the battery charge is depleted, the gasoline engine responds by powering the electric generator, which recharges the battery. Once up to speed and driving under normal conditions, the engine runs with its power split: part of this power goes to the generator, which in turn supplies the electric motor, and part drives the wheels. The distribution of these two power streams from the engine is continuously controlled to maintain the most efficient equilibrium. If the need arises for sudden acceleration, such as a highway passing maneuver or a quicker start from rest, both the gasoline engine and the electric motor drive the wheels.

And during braking and other types of deceleration, the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle is converted into electrical energy, which is then stored in the battery. At all times the state of charge of the battery is constantly monitored, and whenever needed the generator is powered by the gasoline engine to provide the necessary charge.

The result is a vehicle powered by a gasoline engine, in that it's the engine that drives the wheels or drives the generator that supplies (either directly or through the battery) the electric motor. But the engine is only as big as it needs to be. It isn't even running all the time, and if sudden acceleration is called for, both the gasoline engine and electric motor share the load. The engine in hybrid vehicles like the Prius run exclusively on gasoline, while the electrical portion of the power system never needs to be plugged in for a charge. There's no cord and no waiting. You can fill up at any normal gas station anywhere.

Highlander Hybrid – A More Powerful Hybrid Synergy Drive
The Highlander Hybrid is powered by a new version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain specifically developed to meet the load-carrying requirements and performance expectations of mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) buyers. Its all-new high-speed electric motor operates at twice the speed and delivers more than twice the power as the motor used in the Prius, producing 165 horsepower alone. The gas and electric motors combined produce 268 peak horsepower. The Highlander Hybrid has a standard towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

There are two motor-generators in the 4x2 models and three motor-generators employed in the 4WD-i models. Internally referred to as MG1, MG2 and MGR for the rear electric motor in the 4WD-i, each has a specific function and each does double duty as both drive motor and generator (although MG1 is a starter and provides no motive force). The engine-driven generator (MG1) can charge the battery pack, which powers other electric motors as needed, while the front electric-driver motor (MG2) and rear electric motor (MGR) can charge the battery pack through regenerative braking.

Power from the gas engine and MG2 is distributed to the drive wheels via a planetary gear-type continuously variable transmission, which eliminates specific gear ratios. Two planetary gear units are used in the system. The Power-Split unit divides the engine's drive force two ways: one to drive the wheels and the other to drive MG1 so it may function as a generator. The Motor Speed Reduction unit reduces the speed of MG2 and increases its drive torque, significantly boosting acceleration performance.

In addition to its motor-generator duties, the crucial MG1 adds two functions: one as a starter motor for the gas engine; and two, by regulating the amount of electrical power it generates (which varies its RPM), MG1 controls the output speed of the transaxle through the planetary gear set—without clutches or viscous couplings. This is one of the key elements of the hybrid powertrain and

the reason why Highlander Hybrid eliminates the "shift shock" that can typically be felt as even the most refined modern automatic transmissions change gears.

In conventional 4WD vehicles, the weight and friction of the additional drive components reduce the vehicle's acceleration performance compared to the same model with 2WD. Not so with the Highlander Hybrid. The innovative electric 4WD-i system employs a separate 50-kW electric motor (MGR) at the rear that provides up to 96 lb.-ft. of additional drive torque as required. The system electronically varies front and rear torque distribution depending on driving conditions.

The Toyota hybrid technology also allows extended electric-mode operation during low speed or stop-and-go driving conditions. The permanent-magnet front electric drive motor (MG2) produces peak torque from zero-to-1,500 RPM, giving the Highlander Hybrid powerful and instantaneous response that will be especially felt and appreciated in low- and mid-speed performance and in merging and passing maneuvers.

Hybrid Synergy Drive Benefits
The real benefits, to both the owner and driver of Toyota's hybrid vehicles, are the utility and numbers. The Prius is roomy enough inside to meet the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) midsize category, while the Highlander Hybrid provides the versatility of a mid-size SUV. The Prius accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 10 seconds, roughly equal to a four-cylinder gasoline-engine Toyota Camry. Highlander Hybrid 4WD models have an acceleration time of 7.3 seconds for 0 to 60 mph. Prius has a combined EPA mileage estimate of 55 mpg, making it the most fuel efficient of any midsize vehicle sold in America, and delivering twice the combined estimated mileage rating of its closest competitor. Highlander Hybrid's city/highway estimated EPA fuel efficiency rating of 30 mpg exceeds most V8 powered SUVs by more than 100 percent and is better than the current EPA average – 27.6 mpg - for a compact four-cylinder sedan. In addition, both the Prius and Highlander Hybrid have been certified as SULEV, or Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. A decade ago, these combinations were unimaginable.

Posted by Frank at 7:12 PM

Jihad commecial for car dealer draws protest

CINCINNATI - A car commercial proclaiming a jihad on the U.S. auto market and offering “Fatwa Fridays” with free swords for the kids is offensive and should not be aired, Muslim leaders said on Sunday.

The radio advertisement for the Dennis Mitsubishi car dealership in Columbus, Ohio, has “a whole jihad theme,” said Adnan Mirza, director of the Columbus office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

“They are planning on launching a jihad on the automotive market and their representatives would be wearing burqas ... ,” Mirza said. “They mentioned the pope in there and also about giving rubber swords out to the kiddies -- really just reprehensible-type comments.”

Details of the radio ad, which has not yet been broadcast, have been reported in the local media, but officials at the dealership declined to comment about the content of the radio spot.

Two employees at the dealership said they had been deluged with calls about the commercial.
“The ad has has never been released, it is not out for public listening,” said one employee who declined to give his name. He would not say whether the dealership had changed its mind about airing the commercial.

Link.

Posted by Frank at 7:10 PM

Toyota RAV4 Gains Important Safety Feature For 2007

The all-new third-generation RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) introduced for 2006 gains an important safety system as standard equipment for 2007. Driver and front passenger front-seat-mounted side airbags, along with first and second row roll-sensing side curtain airbags, are now standard (formerly optional).

With significantly improved performance from an available V6 engine, plus enhancements to overall refinement, the larger, more powerful RAV4 is redefining a segment it essentially created a decade ago. The new-generation RAV4 is a logical step up from the popular second-generation model, providing more room from a larger design that is still compact, highly maneuverable and fuel-efficient.

The 2007 RAV4 is offered in three distinct grades – Standard, performance-oriented Sport and top-of-the-line Limited – and with a choice between two engines and either two- or four-wheel-drive. All grades offer a 269-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine, making RAV4 the most powerful vehicle in its segment. Equipped exclusively with a gated-shift five-speed automatic transmission, the V6 RAV4 models offer fuel efficiency comparable with much less powerful four- and six-cylinder competitors.

"Toyota pioneered the car-based compact SUV segment with the first RAV4, and now this type of vehicle is the overwhelmingly most popular choice in the segment," said Jim Lentz, Toyota Motor Sales executive vice president. "The third-generation RAV4 adds performance without penalty at the pump, and adds room without sacrificing the nimble nature that has made the RAV4 so successful since its introduction."

Larger and Roomier, with Sporty Design
The new-generation RAV4 is built on an all-new platform that is significantly longer and wider than the previous generation. With overall length increased by more than 14 inches, the RAV4 provides room to offer optional third row seating. The larger cabin offers increased shoulder room for all passengers, and additional head clearance and legroom for second-row passengers.

The high-strength body structure and exterior details were engineered with a tight focus on enhancing quiet ride quality. For example, the outer moldings have been eliminated from the windshield and door glass, enhancing aerodynamics and reducing wind noise. A two-ply hood insulator with a middle air layer helps to further reduce noise transmission into the cabin.

The contemporary design strongly conveys the Toyota identity in an aerodynamically efficient shape, with a wider stance than before. The trapezoidal grille, four-bulb headlamps and distinct, sharp character lines give RAV4 a rugged yet sporty look.

It's a look that's also functional: the coefficient drag has been reduced from 0.35 to 0.33, among the best in its segment and a major factor in minimizing wind noise and maximizing fuel economy. The rear view conveys a more traditional SUV look, with a taller and wider stance than before, LED tail lamps and an externally mounted spare tire in a color-keyed shell.

The Sport grade stands apart with P235/55 R18 tires on aluminum alloy wheels; color-keyed door handles and fender flares; fog lights; roof rails and cross bars; color-keyed heated and foldable power outside mirrors; rear privacy glass; smoked headlamp trim, sport-tuned suspension and unique dark charcoal fabric seats.

Externally, the Limited grade is distinguished from the Sport grade by 17-inch aluminum six-spoke alloy wheels with P225/65 R17 tires and a chrome grille. The Limited also adds a number of interior amenities and offers a wider range of comfort-enhancing options.

Most Powerful Optional Engine in Its Segment
The standard RAV4 powertrain is an upgraded 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and teamed exclusively to a gated-shift four-speed automatic transmission (no manual transmission is offered). The smooth four-cylinder engine delivers 166 horsepower with 165 lb.-ft of torque @ 4,000 RPM. Fuel efficiency is excellent for the class, with EPA mpg estimates of 24 city/30 highway on 4x2 models and 23 city/27 highway on 4x4 models.

The available 3.5-liter V6 is the powerhouse of its segment, generating a best-in-class 269 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 246 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,700 RPM. The dual VVT-i system affects intake and exhaust valve timing to optimize torque and fuel efficiency.

The V6 is paired exclusively with a gated-shift five-speed automatic transmission. Uphill/downhill shift logic reduces the frequency of gear shifting during winding uphill and downhill driving.

The V6 RAV4 can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in under seven seconds and yet achieves estimated EPA fuel economy mpg ratings of 22 city/29 highway for 4x2 models and 21 city/28 highway for 4x4 models. Both RAV4 engines use regular-grade (87 AKI) fuel for maximum customer value, and both are EPA certified as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV2).

Sporty Reflexes, Comfortable Ride
Even with its larger dimensions and increased passenger room, the RAV4 offers improved maneuverability, with a tighter turning radius than previous models. A stronger, stiffer structure, redesigned suspension and Electronic Power Steering (EPS) help improve ride and handling.

Four-wheel independent suspension gives the RAV4 agile, sporty handling and a comfortable car-like ride. The McPherson strut front suspension has been redesigned, and the trailing double-wishbone rear suspension is new. Diagonally positioned shock absorbers allow a larger and lower rear cargo deck.

The RAV4 employs an advanced Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system rather than a traditional engine-driven hydraulic system. A DC motor and gear reduction system built into the steering gear housing provide steering assist. This compact unit contributes to fuel economy by eliminating the traditional power steering pump and by providing computer-controlled assist only when required.

EPS also allows a more precise and timely control of steering assist than conventional hydraulic systems. And significantly, the system is interfaced with an enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system to enhance safe handling under adverse road conditions (please see page 5 for more details).

The RAV4 Bade grade rides on P215/70 R16 tires with 16-inch steel wheels or available P225/65 R17 tires with steel or aluminum alloy wheels; the V6 models step up to standard 17-inch wheels with P225/65 R17 tires, and the Sport grade, in addition to its 18-inch alloy wheels, enhances driving performance with exclusive sport-tuned suspension.

Electronically Controlled 4WD
An automatic on-demand four-wheel-drive system uses an electronically controlled coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, depending on road conditions and driver input. The system can continuously and seamlessly switch from front-wheel-drive to four-wheel-drive mode, maximizing fuel efficiency. In auto mode, torque distribution to the rear wheels is decreased during low speed cornering for better maneuverability.

A 4WD manual locking switch will disengage the auto mode, maximizing torque distribution to the rear wheels. When the vehicle speed reaches 25 mph the Lock mode will disengage, reverting back to Auto mode. The Lock mode also disengages when the brakes are applied, optimizing ABS and VSC operation. RAV4 4x2 models come equipped with an automatic limited slip differential as standard.

All V6 RAV4 models, and all four-cylinder models equipped with a third-row seat, come standard with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC). HAC provides additional control for on-road and off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle stationary while starting on a steep incline or slippery surface; DAC is designed to enhance low-speed descending ability by helping to hold the vehicle to a target speed with no intervention from the driver.

Comprehensive Safety Design
The RAV4 helps protect occupants with a reinforced cabin using front and rear crumple zones and energy-absorbing materials on the roof and doors. The front seats include height-adjustable headrests designed to help reduce the possibility of whiplash-type injuries, as well as three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and belt-force limiters. Second- and third-row seats also provide three-point seatbelts and height-adjustable headrests in all seating positions.

The driver and passenger advanced front airbags are designed to inflate according to collision severity. A front seat passenger sensor is designed to determine if there is a person in the seat, and an occupant classification system verifies the passenger's weight category to determine whether the airbag should inflate. Driver and front passenger front-seat-mounted side airbags and first and second row roll-sensing side curtain airbags are newly standard for 2007.
Like all SUVs in the Toyota lineup, RAV4 comes standard with the STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™ that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-Lock Brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

The newest version of VSC goes beyond the traditional traction control function that simply react to challenging conditions. In the RAV4, VSC interfaces with the new Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system to help optimize steering assist for any given situation. The integration of EPS allows the enhanced VSC system to better anticipate the onset of vehicle loss of control and more effectively respond to driver operation and vehicle behavior.

Spacious Interior Comfort and Utility
The RAV4 seating allows for numerous configurations, and under-floor storage (on models without the third-row seat), providing cargo space comparable to some mid-size SUVs. The 60/40 split second row seats features reclining seatbacks and an armrest with two cupholders, and the seats slides to optimize room for passengers or cargo. The second row seats fold flat with the convenience of tilt-down levers located on the side of the seatbacks and in the cargo area. Two-row models include an additional one-touch lever in the cargo area. The optional 50/50 split-and-stow third-row seat on Base and Limited grades seats two passengers and folds flat under the rear deck.

A brushed metallic silver finish on the center cluster, door trim and steering wheel spokes gives the RAV4 interior a bold, contemporary style. Three-tiered Optitron gauges provide an upscale look. Useful touches are also evident with the addition of a large vanity mirror with "eye-friendly" ceiling lights, illumination on two extra-large front cup holders and a cellphone holder in the center console.

Abundant interior storage includes a dual glovebox; front door compartments; a large center console box; front seatback pockets; a rear door storage pocket and a recessed rear storage compartment with a foldable double-flap lid. On two-row models, two storage compartments are concealed under the rear cargo area floor by a water-repellant foldable deck board.

Unmistakable Toyota Value
Form, fun and functionality are plentiful with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades, including air-conditioning; a tilt and telescopic steering wheel; AM/FM CD stereo with six speakers, a universal mini-jack port, Satellite Radio ready and MP3/WMA playback capability; outside temperature gauge; remote keyless entry; ten front and rear bottle/cup holders;
power windows and door locks; foldable power mirrors; illuminated entry system; rear privacy glass, and three 12-volt auxiliary power outlets.

The Limited grade brings a touch of luxury to the segment, adding dual zone automatic climate control with air filter; upgraded seat fabric; eight-way power driver seat with adjustable lumbar; AM/FM six-disc in-dash CD changer with six speakers, a universal mini-jack port, Satellite Radio ready and MP3/WMA playback capability; engine immobilizer system; interior footwell lighting; leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls; leather-wrapped shift knob with metallic insert; cargo area tonneau cover and a multi-purpose cargo net (two-row models).

Popular Options
An impressive list of optional comfort and utility features further enhance the RAV4 driving and ownership experience. Some of the standard extras in the Limited grade are available as standalone options on the Base grade, including the audio and wheel options.

A tow package for V6 models increases towing capacity to a maximum of 3,500 pounds.

Available features on the Sport grade, in addition to those offered on the Base grade, include a power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade and a JBL six-disc CD changer audio system with nine speakers (including a subwoofer), Bluetooth® wireless capability, Satellite Radio ready and steering wheel audio controls.

The Limited grade in addition offers available leather-trimmed seats; heated front seats; a rear seat DVD entertainment system with rear seat audio, and exclusive Blizzard White Pearl exterior paint.

Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

Posted by Frank at 7:01 PM

Toyota Sequoia Gains New Safety System For 2007

The Toyota Sequoia full-size sport utility vehicle (SUV), recently named the quality leader in its segment, gains standard driver- and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags and two-row curtain side airbags for 2007. These features previously had been optional.

Showcasing the brand's renowned quality, the Sequoia was named the "Highest Ranked Large Multi-Activity Vehicle (MAV)" in the 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality StudySM.

Like all Toyota SUVs, the Sequoia comes standard with the benefits of the STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control (TRAC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. (See page 2 for details.)

The eight-passenger Sequoia offers greater rear cargo capacity than either the Chevrolet Tahoe or the Ford Expedition. Minor trim changes for 2007 include a new color-keyed grille insert on the SR5 model and chrome rear view mirrors on the top-of-the-line Limited grade.

Sequoia is powered by the 4.7-liter i-Force V8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), the Sequoia V8 produces 273 horsepower and 314 lb-ft. of peak torque. The Sequoia is EPA-certified as an ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV).

The Sequoia is available in two model grades, the well-equipped SR5 and a Limited model that includes some features and amenities seen in luxury SUVs. Both grades are available in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models. Overfenders and taillamps with clear-lens covers give Sequoia a rugged yet sophisticated appearance.

Sophisticated Dynamic Control with STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™
Toyota engineered the Sequoia to address safety both in vehicle dynamics and occupant protection. The STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™, which is featured as standard on every Toyota SUV, includes VSC, TRAC, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist to help provide optimal vehicle control and driving safety.

Four-channel, four-sensor ABS helps to preserve steering control by preventing the wheels from locking under severe braking, while EBD distributes proper brake force between the front and rear wheels according to driving conditions. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power.

VSC helps maintain directional stability during cornering by manipulating engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence when it detects tire slippage. The VSC system integrates traction control (two--wheel on 2WD and four-wheel on 4WD), which helps reduce tire slippage during acceleration.

Family-Ready Occupant Protection
Reinforced front and rear bumpers and a front crumple zone are designed to absorb and distribute collision impact forces. The reinforced upper cabin frame, reinforced rocker support for all pillars and door beams help to maintain passenger compartment integrity.

The Sequoia provides a three-point seatbelt for all seating positions, with height adjusters for the front seats and the outboard rear seats. Front seatbelts include pretensioners and force limiters.

The advanced front Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) provides dual-stage deployment driver and passenger airbags. A sensor on the driver's seat track can determine the driver's seat distance from the steering wheel to signal an appropriate deployment stage. A sensor in the front passenger seat detects the presence and weight category of a passenger (child or adult), and also determines the appropriate airbag deployment strategy.

Side airbags and side curtain airbags for the front and second-row seats are standard features for 2007. A rollover sensor with a cutoff switch can detect the possibility of an imminent rollover accident and deploy the side curtain airbags.

Go-Anywhere, Anytime Capability
Fully boxed frame rails give the Sequoia a stiff chassis that contributes to a smooth, quiet and controlled ride. Front suspension is a coil-spring double-wishbone system, with rear suspension a five-link coil spring configuration. Available hydraulic rear load-leveling suspension automatically compensates for loads carried in the vehicle. Seventeen-inch aluminum wheels and P265/65R17 tires are standard on the Sequoia Limited and available on the SR5 grade.

The available multi-mode 4WD system with low-range allows the driver to shift from 2H to 4H with a dash-mounted switch. The lockable center differential can help get the vehicle through obstructions such as sand, mud or deep snow, and 4x4 models provide 10.6-inches of ground clearance.

Room and Versatility
A versatile design makes the most of Sequoia's generous interior room. The 60/40 split second row (and available second-row captain's chairs) and 50/50 split third row seats fold, recline and tumble forward. In its rear-most position, the third row provides 29.8 inches of legroom. The third row seats also slide and are removable. Moving the third row to its most forward position yields 36.2 cu.-ft. of space behind it. The third row seat can be removed in halves to provide 73.6 cu.-ft. of space behind the second row, and then folding the second row yields 128.1 cu.-ft. of total cargo space.

The rear power window fully retracts into the gate. The window operates either by driver position switch, inserting the key into the hatch lock or with the remote keypad when equipped with keyless entry (standard on Limited, optional on SR5). The multi-function front center console integrates a large storage box with a double door and memo pad clip. Dual front and rear-cup holders can adapt to containers of nearly any size. Sequoia provides four 12-volt power outlets – two in the front, one for the second row, and one behind the third row.

Useful storage compartments, along with 10 cupholder locations, are found throughout the interior. All four doors include deep storage pockets. Behind the third row, the cargo area provides an open, deep pocket on each side, a small article compartment with lid, two grocery bag hooks and cargo net hooks.

Towing capacity is 6,200 lbs. for Sequoia 4WD models and 6,500 lbs. for 2WD models. An available seven-pin towing connector can accommodate electric trailer braking systems.

Toyota Comfort and Quality
Thoughtful ergonomic design and high-quality interior materials make the Sequoia comfortable for all aboard. Standard equipment highlights for the Sequoia SR5 include power “captain's chair” front seats with armrests and standard dual front and rear air conditioning systems. Front and rear passengers can control heating and cooling independently.

The SR5's extensive standard equipment includes power windows (with front window jam control); power mirrors and door locks; 3-in-1 AM/FM/cassette/CD audio system with six speakers; cruise control; anti-theft system with engine immobilizer; and auto-off headlights.

An SR5 Appearance Package offers a seven-seat configuration, 16-inch alloy wheels in place of the standard styled steel wheels, fog lamps, and skid plate. The middle seat row features fabric captain's chairs with a removable center console in place of the standard bench-type three-passenger seat.

The Sequoia Limited enhances comfort and convenience by adding leather-trimmed power-adjustable front seats (eight-way for driver, four-way for passenger); a premium JBL stereo system with 10 speakers; power moonroof; 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels; heated side mirrors; fog lamps; an adjustable roof rack, and a towing prep package with receiver hitch and wire harness.

The Limited also adds the convenience of an overhead console with HomeLink® universal garage door opener, compass and a trip computer. An auto-dimming inside rear view mirror is standard on Limited models and available on SR5 models. Other Limited content is also available for the SR5 as stand-alone options or in option packages.

The Sequoia Limited can be equipped even more luxuriously with the optional Luxury Package (seven-passenger seating) that includes second-row captain's chairs and removable center console; memory driver's seat and exterior mirrors; height-control rear air suspension; interior wood-grain style trim, and distinctive Optitron instrumentation. The available touch-screen DVD navigation system is paired with a JBL premium 2-in-1 AM/FM CD audio system with 10 speakers.

The optional factory-installed DVD rear seat entertainment system uses a high-resolution seven-inch overhead LCD screen that flips down from the headliner, a DVD player location in the center console box and rear seat audio – a feature that is also available as a separate option.

Toyota dealers offer a variety of accessories for the Sequoia, including towing equipment, cargo carrying enhancements and special trim items.

Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

Posted by Frank at 6:56 PM

Toyota Sienna Gets Power Infusion For 2007

The Toyota Sienna family van gets an infusion of power for 2007 with a new, 266-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine that replaces the previous 215-horsepower 3.3-liter V6. The new engine significantly improves acceleration and merging performance for Sienna, yet returns fuel economy comparable to the previous engine.

The 2007 Sienna's DOHC 3.5L V6 produces 245 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,700 rpm. A Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) system operates on both the intake and exhaust valves to ensure optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds.

The V6 is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). Impressive acceleration makes the Sienna a capable everyday driving vehicle with the power to merge with confidence. Fuel economy remains excellent for the class, with EPA city/highway gas mileage estimates of 19/26 mpg for front-wheel-drive models and 18/23 mpg for all-wheel-drive models.

Sienna remains one of the few mini-vans to offer an all-wheel drive option. The AWD system employs a center differential to divide engine power 50:50 front and rear. Wheel slippage at either set of wheels automatically transfers more power to the opposite wheels to help keep the Sienna moving forward.

The Sienna is available in four model grades: CE, LE, XLE, and the top-of-the-line Limited. All four come in front-wheel drive configuration, and the LE, XLE, and Limited also offer all-wheel-drive. The CE and LE are available in both seven- and eight-passenger configurations; others are seven-passenger models.

A 119.3-inch wheelbase gives Sienna exceptional interior room and a smooth ride. The 36.8-foot turning circle is tighter than for some midsize cars, helping to make the Sienna easily maneuverable.

Focus on Comfort and Versatility
Minivan customers expect exceptional passenger and cargo room, and Sienna delivers both with a sharp focus on space optimization. The dashboard-mounted gated shifter allows pass-through room between the front seats. Sienna offers two distinctly different second-row seating options that are easy to adjust, tumble, or remove. In its seven-passenger configuration, Sienna features second-row captains chairs with a passenger-side chair that can be repositioned side-to-side, offering either a bench or a bucket arrangement.

The Sienna CE and LE grades offer an eight-passenger configuration. A second-row, three-way split/folding bench with a Front and Center® middle seat that can be moved nearly 13 inches closer to the front seats, making infants and toddlers in child-seats more accessible.

All Sienna models are equipped with a standard versatile 60/40 Split & Stow 3rd Row™ bench seat that folds flat into the floor. Either side of the seat can be stowed separately with low-effort, one-hand operation. With the entire rear seat stowed and the second-row seats removed, four-by-eight foot sheets of plywood can be loaded flat onto the floor. The Limited model offers a power-operated third-row version that makes switching from carrying people to cargo even easier.
Toyota paid close attention to the needs of frequent occupants of the middle and third-row seats – children and young adults. The LCD screen for the available rear seat entertainment system measures nine inches. In addition, a universal mini-jack port standard on all audio systems allows connectivity to most portable music players.

Sienna delivers a wide range of standard amenities. The Sienna XLE and Limited models respond to the growing demand for even higher levels of comfort and luxury to the minivan segment, with the Limited adding standard leather-trimmed upholstery, a 10-speaker premium sound system, Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, heated front seats and other features.

An available DVD-based satellite navigation system for XLE and Limited models includes a backup camera. The camera automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation system's LCD screen when reverse gear is engaged.

Family Safety
All seating positions are equipped with three-point seatbelts, and front seat-mounted side airbags and side-curtain airbags covering all three seat rows are standard equipment on all Sienna grades. The LATCH system (Lower Anchor with Tethers for CHildren) is in all second-row seating positions to accommodate new-design child seats.

Sienna has been engineered to provide responsive, confident handling, and all models feature a standard anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The Brake Assist feature is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system applies maximum braking power until pedal pressure is released.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC) is standard on the Limited grade and AWD models and available as an option on other models. VSC helps the driver maintain control in adverse driving conditions, and the TRAC feature helps reduce tire slippage during acceleration.

The Sienna AWD models come standard with 17-inch run-flat tires on aluminum alloy wheels (new design for 2007). Reinforced sidewalls and a special bead shape enable these tires to be driven with no air pressure for up to 100 miles at speeds up to 55 mph. A spare tire is also available. The tire pressure monitor system on all Sienna models is now a direct-type for 2007.

The Toyota Value Standard in All Models
The wide choice of model grades, combined with extensive standard equipment and thoughtful features, makes Sienna a truly outstanding value. Standard equipment in the Sienna CE includes power windows, door locks and mirrors; sliding rear doors with power windows; second-row captains chairs; keyless entry system, and deluxe AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers.

Comfort, convenience and versatility are assured with a standard tilt/telescopic steering column; dual (front and rear) air conditioning; a folding tray table between the front seats; variable intermittent front and rear windshield wipers; 10 cup holders and four bottle holders; three 12v power outlets, and a heavy-duty rear window defogger with timer.

In addition to, or in place of features on the CE grade, standard equipment for the Sienna LE includes an engine immobilizer; heated power mirrors; roof rails and crossbars; privacy glass; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; cruise control; driver's side power window with auto up/down and jam protection; driver's seat manual-adjustable lumbar support; illuminated vanity mirrors; unique LE seat fabric; a fold-flat front passenger seat, and a six-disc CD changer.

Luxury in a Family Van
The Sienna XLE grade adds a host of desirable comfort and convenience features, including power dual sliding doors and power open/close rear gate; tri-zone (driver/front passenger and rear) climate control with air filter; leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls; an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat; removable center console, and unique seat fabric. An overhead console features a trip computer, outside temperature gauge and HomeLink® universal transceiver/garage door opener. The Sienna XLE also comes with standard fog lamps, an anti-theft alarm and available leather-trimmed seats.

A memory system for the driver's seat and outside mirrors is standard on the Limited grade and optional for the XLE. The Limited's power-folding mirrors integrate puddle lamps and turn signals. Enhanced audio options include a JBL Synthesis 360-watt AM/FM//CD player with six-disc changer and ten speakers.

The top-of-the-line Sienna Limited brings a true feeling of luxury to this family vehicle. The comprehensive upgrade adds: leather-trimmed seats; second- and third-row sunshades; 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 225/60R17 all-season tires; VSC with TRAC; front and rear parking sonar; wood grain and leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls; CD changer; Dynamic Laser Cruise Control; high intensity discharge (HID) headlights; heated front seats with adjustable temperature control; chrome exterior accents; windshield wiper de-icer grid, and auto-dimming driver's side mirror and inside rear view mirrors.

Onboard Entertainment and Navigation for Family Adventures
A wide selection of optional convenience features enhances Sienna's versatility and comfort. Some of these include a DVD rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones; navigation system with backup camera; 115v power outlets; second- and third-row sunshades, and a JBL Synthesis AM/FM/CD with six-disc changer and 10-speaker surround sound audio system.

The optional navigation system's integrated Bluetooth® technology provides a hands-free communication system when used with a compatible cellular phone. A call can be dialed by using the navigation display screen's keypad, and incoming calls can be answered and ended by pushing a button located on the steering wheel. When receiving a call, the audio system is automatically muted, and the speakers act as the phone receiver and transmitter.

Sienna is assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) in Princeton, Ind., with more than 90 percent of its content sourced from North American suppliers. Both the engine and the transmission are assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing powertrain production facility in West Virginia.

Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

Posted by Frank at 6:53 PM

Toyota Supports Mobility Braun Sienna Rampvan

As part of its commitment to customers with special mobility needs, Toyota and The Braun Corporation offer two versions of the Sienna Rampvan for 2007. Two versions of the side-entry Rampvan continue for 2007, an "Infloor" ramp model and a "Foldout" ramp model.

All versions of the Sienna Rampvan are produced by The Braun Corporation, the largest mobility products company in the world. Braun also produces the Scion xB Rampvan conversion. Customers can finance the Sienna Rampvan through Braun Credit, which provides competitive rates and repayment terms of up to 10 years, or through Toyota Financial Services.

Through Toyota's Mobility Assistance initiative, the company provides cash reimbursement of up to $1,000 to eligible, original retail customers for the cost they paid to purchase and install qualifying adaptive driving or passenger equipment for transporting persons with physical disabilities. The offer applies to all purchased or leased new 2006 and later Toyota, Lexus or Scion vehicles, which must be adapted within 12 months of delivery date.

Two Side-Access Rampvan Models
The Braun Sienna Rampvan features one of the tallest door openings, generous ground clearance, and substantial headroom in the center of the minivan. It also provides the widest floor, both in the driver's seating position and at the B-pillar. The Sienna Rampvan offers a carrying capacity of 1,463 lbs. with the standard conversion that includes one quick-release front seat; no weight was added as a result of the standard conversion.

The OEM fuel tank and muffler were both relocated, allowing the Sienna Rampvan to retain a 20-gallon fuel capacity and provide a quiet ride. In contrast, competitive minivan conversions require the substitution of smaller mufflers and special, fabricated fuel tanks to fit in the available space.

Standard equipment includes multiple wheelchair tie-down points, emergency door-ramp release, anti-skid ramp coating, removable driver's seat, power right side and rear doors, and power ramp with three conveniently located control switches. Front seating that can be switched from the driver's side to the passenger location enables a wheelchair user to move between driving and riding positions. A standard special key chain, when held up to a switch hidden in the rear taillight of the minivan, automatically opens the door and deploys the ramp. The exclusive bump-and-reverse design allows the ramp or door to retract if either path is obstructed.

Braun's Sienna Rampvan dealers offer two versions with right-side access. The Infloor model includes a right-side entry ramp with a 10-inch lowered floor. The lowered floor decreases the ramp angle, allows deployment onto curbs with ease, helps make the vehicle easier to enter and exit and increases interior headroom.

The 30-inch-wide ramp with a full one-inch lip on either side deploys from a pocket under the floor and drops to the ground at the end of its extension. Full ramp extension requires only five seconds after the power sliding side door is fully open. In case of power failure, the conversion also incorporates a simple manual ramp deployment system.

The Sienna Rampvan Foldout model offers a ramp that folds out of the right side sliding door opening and features an 11-inch lowered floor, for one more inch of headroom, which can be critical for some customers. This vehicle provides a door opening height of just over 54 inches and also features a unique anti-rattle device. Like the Infloor Rampvan, there is also a simple manual device in case of vehicle power failure.

Available Side Access Packages
The Braun Sienna Rampvan offers several Assistance Packages for convenience. Assistance Package #1 deletes the carpet, and adds heavy-duty suspension. Assistance Package #2 for 2007, includes options for LE models that are of special value to a person with disabilities, including power right and left passenger sliding doors and power rear door, eight-way power driver's seat, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a trip computer with HomeLink®.

The conversions are retailed through select Braun Mobility Equipment Dealers, which are listed on the Internet at www.braunlift.net.

Mobility Seats for Any Sienna
Toyota has entered into an exclusive agreement with Bruno Independent Living Aids to offer Lift-Up seats for any current-generation Sienna. Manufactured by Toyota Auto Body in Japan, the Lift-Up seats are available through selected Bruno Mobility Equipment dealers. All Bruno Lift-Up and Turny seats qualify for the full $1,000 Toyota Mobility Assistance reimbursement.

Toyota also offers Mobility seating options for the Sienna. The Bruno Lift-Up Power Mobility Seats are available for the right front passenger and the right middle seat positions. Both power seats rotate 90 degrees and extend out of the vehicle and lower to within 12 inches off the ground, to facilitate entry and exit by less able persons who have difficulty getting into and out of a vehicle.

Toyota Mobility Assistance Program
Toyota announced the Mobility Assistance initiative in 2001 to reach out to the expanding base of potential customers among the 54 million Americans with disabilities. The number-one cause of disability in the U.S. is arthritis, which afflicts nearly half of all seniors. The senior population was 76 million in 2000 and is projected to grow to 116 million by 2020 – or 36 percent of the U.S. population.

The Mobility Assistance Program includes a comprehensive resource information web site at www.toyota.com/mobility, where consumers can locate rehabilitation specialists, driving instructors for persons with disabilities, and mobility equipment dealers who sell and install the equipment as well as provide user training.

Posted by Frank at 6:52 PM