Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Auto News: March 2007 Archives

March 31, 2007

Hoop dreams, blimpin'

Ohio State and Georgetown Students Make World Record Basketball Shot From 500-Feet Away . . . Flying in the Goodyear Blimp

AKRON, OHIO -- Since the start of the basketball season, Stacey Freyer, a sophomore at Ohio State University and Jennifer Hanson, a senior out of Georgetown University, have been rooting for their teams to reach the national championship. They never dreamed, days before, they would be the ones to actually make the big shot. Today, Freyer and Hanson made history when each successfully hit the world's longest basketball shot.

Freyer and Hanson each hit a 100-foot hoop-target with a regulation basketball ... from the gondola of the Goodyear blimp, 500 feet above the goal, winning the Goodyear "Get There" Blimp Shot Contest. A total of four contestants - representing each school in the Men's Division I college basketball semifinals - participated in the contest.

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March 31, 2007

Record Number of First-Time Bidders Attend Barrett-Jackson

PALM BEACH, Fla. -- A diverse collection of the world’s rarest collector cars attracted a crowd of both seasoned and first-time bidders to the South Florida Expo Center for day two of the 5th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Palm Beach, Fla.

New bidders accounted for 52 percent of the buyers during weekday action, demonstrating the many new faces that are coming into the thriving hobby. The action will continue this weekend as the world’s most exclusive collector automobiles cross the block at No Reserve, with SPEED capturing live footage today from 12 noon to 8 p.m.

“It’s great to see so many new faces join long-time collectors to soak up the excitement at this year’s Palm Beach Barrett-Jackson automotive lifestyle event,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “There were so many more people the first day that we had to bring in additional stadium style seating to accommodate the crowds.”

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GM, Carnegie Mellon to Demonstrate Vehicles that Drive Themselves

General Motors Corp. is hosting the Carnegie Mellon University Tartan Racing Team for a demonstration of a self-driving Chevrolet Tahoe, the team's entry in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) 2007 Urban Challenge competition.

The challenge involves an unmanned vehicle safely navigating through a 60- mile urban course with merging traffic, stop signs and busy intersections, in less than six hours, without any remote control by humans. The race will be held November 3, 2007 at a location still to be announced in the western United States.

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Science Classrooms Receive $550,000 From Toyota TAPESTRY Grant Program

ST. LOUIS -- Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc. today recognized 82 science teachers from across the country with $550,000 in grants via the Toyota TAPESTRY: Grants for Science Teachers program at the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) National Convention in St. Louis, Mo.

As the nation's largest science teacher grant program, Toyota TAPESTRY selected 82 proposals for funding from the 722 submitted by K-12 teachers. The programs funded by the Toyota TAPESTRY program will be implemented in classrooms beginning in September 2007.

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Toyota First Asian OEM to Host the Society of Automotive Engineer World Congress

Ann Arbor, Michigan – Toyota will serve as the first Aisin OEM host company for the 2007 SAE World Congress. The 2007 SAE World Congress will be held April 16-19, in Detroit, Michigan at the Cobo Center.

This year's theme for the congress is: Engineering for Global Sustainable Mobility—It's Up to Us. Yasuhiko Ichihashi, president Toyota Technical Center said, "For the automotive industry, the number one priority is planning for future generations and this theme challenges each of us to individually and collectively address these concerns."

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Enterprise Rent-A-Car to Acquire Vanguard Car Rental

ST. LOUIS -- Enterprise Rent-A-Car has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Vanguard Car Rental Group Inc. This transaction between two privately held companies is expected to close in the third or fourth quarter of 2007, contingent upon clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Anti-Trust Improvements Act and other customary closing conditions.

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GM Wins Best Investor Relations Web Site Award from IR Magazine

NEW YORK & DETROIT -- General Motors’ investor relations web site was named the best among mid- to large-cap companies at the 12th annual IR Magazine US Awards on March 29 in New York.

The IR Magazine award winners were determined by the votes of nearly 3,000 analysts, portfolio managers and retail investors in the largest survey of its kind in North America.

Accepting the award for GM were Russell Tiejema, GM Investor Relations manager, and Louise Giles, GM Stockholder Services special projects manager.

GM’s investor relations site can be found at http://www.gm.com/company/investor_information/

Nissan's Pitch For Mini-Car: Accessorize It

Pino is Secondary In Spots That Woo Young Women

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co. had a tough challenge in launching its Pino minicar: Make it appeal to young female consumers who couldn't care less about cars.

While these deep-pocketed shoppers spend lavishly on clothes and accessories, cars are optional for many. Instead, they rely on bicycles, motorbikes or public transport. So Nissan Motor purposely avoided focusing too much attention on the car itself. Instead, television and print ads portray the Pino as just one item in a collage of accessories, such as plushy animals, furry seat cushions and heart-shaped decals. The Pino pamphlet, designed to read like a comic book, shows a group of fashionable youths eating cupcakes and showing off manicured nails that match the Pino's star upholstery pattern.

"If these young girls see a product that seems irrelevant to them, they'll make an instantaneous decision to ignore it," says Akinao Sato, an account director at TBWA/Hakuhodo, a Tokyo-based joint venture between Omnicom Group Inc.'s TBWA Worldwide and Hakuhodo Inc. that handles Nissan campaigns in Japan.

Nissan has no plans to take its minicars to the U.S. Even the most minute new models in the U.S. have much larger engines than Japanese minicars. "This is a Japan-only phenomenon," says Miwa Ishii, marketing manager for Nissan's minicar division.

March 30, 2007

Pope's old VW has got great book value

A Holy Ride - Infamous Car Selling Again on eBay

The Pope Benedict XVI Mobile from record-breaking auction is back on the block for charity

LONDON -- The car that drew international attention and broke eBay records with over 10 million visitors to its auction page in May 2005, is now going to be put back on the auction block by GoldenPalace.com, the winners of the now famous collectible.

In what was easily one of the most phenomenal events in Internet history, the car which once belonged to Cardinal Josef Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI, was won by online casino GoldenPalace.com for an impressive 188,938.88 euro.

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Muniz to Compete As a Professional Driver

Former "Malcolm in the Middle" star Frankie Muniz has turned his back on acting to concentrate on a career as a professional Champ Car driver.

The speed-loving star is starting from the back of the grid at the upcoming Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach in California, where he'll compete for a win in the Champ Car Atlantic Series.

Race spokeswoman Sherry Perez says, "He's had such success as an actor at such a young age and now it's almost like he's starting over again ... as a race car driver."

Muniz, 21, is sporting a new Mohawk haircut as he attempts to be taken seriously as a member of the Jensen MotorSport team.

Muniz raced for Jensen MotorSport in the 2006 Formula BMW USA series.

The Long Beach Grand Prix has happy memories for Muniz -- he won the Toyota Pro/Celebrity race at the three-day event in 2005.

Web voters choose Chrysler Derby faves

* Public Online Votes Help Move Five Semifinalists Forward in National Hat Design Competition

* Five semifinalists selected from hundreds of entries with the help of public votes

* Contestants will now produce hat design, including material from the Sebring Convertible soft top

* Three finalists receive weekend trip to the 133rd Kentucky Derby and chance to win an all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- For five lucky semifinalists, the dream of attending the Kentucky Derby – and riding in style while there – is much closer to coming true as the Chrysler brand announces the five semifinalists in the “Chrysler Sebring Hats Off to the Derby” national design contest. Selected from hundreds of entries, the semifinalists are still in the running to win a weekend trip to the 133rd Kentucky Derby and an all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible.

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Westfalia Van celebrates three years of Mercedes conversions

* 5,555 Mercedes-Benz Vianos converted since 2003

* Viano the ideal basis for Marco Polo and Fun recreational vehicles

Rheda-Wiedenbrück, Mar 30, 2007 -- Today, the employees of Westfalia Van Conversion are celebrating a small anniversary. Since the start of production of the Viano in 2003, they have converted 5,555 Vianos into recreational vehicles. Whether as the Viano Marco Polo Westfalia or as the Viano Fun with pop-up roof, the vehicles find satisfied customers in all parts of the world, including China. Wilfried Porth, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans at DaimlerChrysler AG says: "This anniversary clearly demonstrates that your excellent work is the best publicity for our products."

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Chrysler Group Announces Pricing on 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

- With a starting U.S. Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is priced $645 below the comparable outgoing model with $2,965 more standard content

- Chrysler Sebring Convertible delivers open-air freedom with elegant coupe styling and functionality of a year-round car

- Model line-up offers a broad range of powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain and feature combinations

AUBURN HILLS -- Chrysler is raising the roof on the convertible segment, introducing the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible.

With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the Chrysler Sebring Convertible is priced $645 below the comparable outgoing model with $2,965 more content, including standard side seat-mounted air bags for head and thorax protection, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring system, automatic latching convertible top, standard hard tonneau cover, AM/FM stereo with six- disc CD player, six-way power driver and passenger seats and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

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VW launches fuel saving initiative in China

Dalian/Beijing - Volkswagen announced new environmental goals for China at the inauguration of the engine plant in Dalian. These goals envisage a reduction of over 20 percent in fuel consumption and emissions for models built at the plants operated by the two joint ventures FAW-Volkswagen and Shanghai Volkswagen by 2010.

Volkswagen intends to become the most environmentally friendly automaker in China with the help of modern TFSI engines, innovative automatic gearboxes, lightweight design and further initiatives. So far, some 80 million euros has been invested in the new engine plant, and total investment until 2011 amounts to roughly 145 million euros. The plant is designed for an annual production capacity of 300,000 engines.

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Environmental trends align GM brands

* General Motors Europe focusing on small and compact models

* Natural gas and ethanol as low-emission alternatives

Dudenhofen -- General Motors Europe continues its upward trend by focusing on fuel-saving small and compact cars. Following GME’s 227 million dollar profit in 2006 − the first since 1999 − GM Europe President Carl-Peter Forster is not troubled by the current discussion about energy efficiency and lower emissions.

In fact, he sees it more as a plus-point for the Opel, Chevrolet, Saab and Cadillac brands. “The fact that more car buyers are taking the environmental compatibility and energy balance of their cars into consideration is a good thing for us,” says Forster. At the same time, he called for a closer cooperation between auto producers, the oil industry and politicians so that solutions to climate protection can be found. Forster: "The consumer must be able to afford environmental technology. This is the only way to put it on a broad and effective basis".

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Finance VP leaves Ford

DEARBORN, Mich., March 30, 2007 – Ford Motor Company today announced that James Gouin, vice president – Finance, Strategy and Business Development, International Operations, has elected to leave the company.

"Jim has been a valuable member of our senior Finance team," said Don Leclair, executive vice president and Chief Financial Officer. "We wish him well as he pursues other interests."

Gouin joined Ford in 1979 in accounting and has held a variety of positions of increasing responsibility in Finance throughout his career. Prior to his current assignment, he served as vice president and controller for Ford Motor Company. Before that, Gouin was controller, North America; chief financial officer, Ford's ConsumerConnect group; and chief financial officer, Ford Investment Enterprises Corporation. He also has held various finance leadership positions in Marketing, Sales and Service, Vehicle Operations and Manufacturing.

General Motors Increase Investment and Capacity at New Russian Assembly Plant

* New GM plant able to produce 70,000 Chevrolet Captiva and other vehicles as of 2008

* Total investment now at to $300 million

Zurich -- General Motors Europe President, Carl-Peter Forster, announced today that the world’s largest car-maker will more than double the originally planned capacity of the new assembly plant it is building in Shushary on the outskirts of Russia’s second city, St. Petersburg, to 70,000.

“Russia is our biggest market for Chevrolet in Europe,” said Forster. “Demand continues to grow and we will be in an even better position to meet that demand when Shushary goes on stream in 2008.” The Russian vehicle market became the fifth largest in Europe in 2006 with year-on-year growth of 22 percent. General Motors sold more than 132,000 cars on the Russian market in 2006, of which over 84 percent were Chevrolets. In the first two months of 2007, 25,981 GM cars (20,805 Chevrolet) were sold in Russia.

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Nissan moves Mexico finance headquarters

NR Finance México signs letter of intention with the Government of Aguascalientes to agree on the move of its offices to that state

México City -- Fernando Hermoza, General Director of NR Finance México (NRFM), and members of his team recently met with the Governor of Aguascalientes, Luis Armando Reynoso Femat, and the Secretary of Economic Development, Armando Jiménez San Vicente, in the Government House to sign the agreement which formalizes the NRFM move to that state.

Since its establishment in September 2003, the financial branch of both Nissan Mexicana and Renault de México set in Mexico City, in two separate offices. To improve all processes involved and offer the employees a better quality of life, the move to the new location was decided.

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VW house mag wins award

VW publication impresses international jury of experts

Wolfsburg, Germany - A jury of some 100 international creativity and marketing experts has made its choice: the Volkswagen Magazine has been awarded the coveted Mercury Award 2006 in silver.

The Volkswagen Magazine, which the Wolfsburg-based automaker publishes in cooperation with G + J Corporate Media GmbH, ran for the first time in the Custom Publications, Automobiles category and was awarded a place among the top 3 at this first attempt.

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Nissan adds NISMO 350Z to lineup

For the first time in the Nissan Z’s 37-year history, a high-performance NISMO 350Z is part of the 2007 Z lineup, with an extensively developed list of unique equipment.

The NISMO 350Z’s aerodynamics package strongly resembles the Super GT championship winning Zs, with an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing. This package produces additional aerodynamic downforce for enhanced cornering and handling performance.

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Mercedes uses computer tracking to measure driver distraction

* A human-machine simulator evaluates driver distraction

Stuttgart -- Just how well onboard controls can be operated is being investigated by the DaimlerChrysler researchers at a very early stage of vehicle development. Using a special simulator to determine whether systems can be easily and intuitively operated, they can thus offer recommendations for interior design at an early stage, thereby reducing costs.

For this purpose, the researchers from DaimlerChrysler have developed a human-machine simulator in which a test person is required to carry out a specific task: during a normal drive in a car without critical situations, he or she is called upon to operate a certain system. The demands this places on the test person’s attentiveness can then be evaluated on the basis of objective and subjective criteria.

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Ford offers ethanol for cops [in their cars]

DEARBORN, Mich. – Ford Motor Company announced today its new 2008 Crown Victoria Police Interceptor will be offered as a flexible fuel vehicle allowing it to operate on E85 ethanol or gasoline.

Ford is the largest producer and seller of police vehicles with more than 80 percent of the market. As police and government agencies move toward becoming more environmentally conscious and seek alternative fuel vehicles for their fleets, Ford is in the position to fill this need for its police customers.

"The ability to offer an E85 capable vehicle to our police customers is significant," said Gerald Koss, Ford's fleet marketing manager. "Many municipalities and states across the country are encouraging, if not mandating, that their police and other government fleet vehicles begin using alternative sources of fuel. We can now help our police fleet customers achieve this goal."

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Volvo drops ad agency during review

Incumbent Euro Dropped From Volvo Review

Arnold, Fallon Remain in Hunt for Bulk of Carmaker's Global Creative Account

NEW YORK -- In a blow to Euro RSCG Worldwide, Sweden's Volvo Car Corp. has narrowed the contenders in its creative review to two, leaving its incumbent in North America and parts of Europe out of the running.

Havas sibling Arnold, teamed with independent Nitro, and Publicis Groupe's Fallon have been selected to develop and present creative work. The winner will handle most of the carmakers' estimated $150 million global account and develop work that will be adapted by other agencies on Volvo's roster to their local markets.

Ford supporting hydrogen research in Australia

VICTORIA, Australia -- Ford Motor Company of Australia has confirmed its support of a long-term research project by the University of Melbourne to study efficient and practical hydrogen fuelled vehicle technologies.

The important study today received a $1.2 million grant from the Victorian State Government, announced by the Minister for Energy and Resources, Hon Peter Batchelor.

"Ford Australia is proud to extend our relationship with the University of Melbourne through this important project," said Ford Australia President Tom Gorman.

Ford Australia will contribute engines and resources to the project which, along with the State Government grant, will assist with engine and vehicle development. The project will also investigate hydrogen generation and storage technology.

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Younger Purchaser Profile Marks a New Trend in Custom Car Collectors

The Amphicar Makes an Unusual Return During Auction’s Opening Day

PALM BEACH, Fla. -- The opening day of the 5th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event saw record attendance figures as more than 80 special interest automobiles were sold, at No Reserve, in front of a packed house, broadcast on television among an audience of avid enthusiasts.

SPEED broadcast for more than three hours on the auction block as Craig Jackson, CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, introduced the afternoon session that saw a diverse mix of collector vehicles go under the hammer.

The first day of the year’s most prestige Palm Beach collector car event marked a new purchasing trend as seasoned collectors rubbed shoulders with a younger, emerging demographic. Tony Cesario, 24, of Phoenix, Ariz., waits anxiously alongside his metallic blue, custom-built Chevrolet truck in Lane 3 as he poses for pictures.

“I’ve spent over $50,000 on renovating this vehicle, and it’s my first time on the auction block,” he says nervously. Twenty minutes later and after an intense bidding war, Tony comes out grinning from ear-to-ear and with his arms wrapped around his closest friend.

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Sony Renews Sponsorship for NHRA Sport Compact Racing Series

SAN DIEGO -- With the focus on its Xplod brand of mobile electronics products, Sony Electronics has extended its sponsorship of the NHRA Xplod Sport Compact Racing Series for the 2007 season.

Sony first sponsored an NHRA Sport Compact event in 2003 and has been the title sponsor of the drag racing series since 2005.

Beginning in 2007, Sony and Best Buy will together offer a taste of the race day excitement at local Best Buy stores the day before the race events. Additionally, Best Buy will have exclusive offers for race attendees at each event good at participating stores and online.

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Nissan Introduces Innovative Valve Control Technology

Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) delivers significant improvements in dynamic and environmental performance

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today introduced a new engine technology that delivers a balance of responsiveness and power, fuel efficiency and low emissions. The new system combines the technologies behind Nissan’s newly developed Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL)*1 and continuous valve timing control (C-VTC) to deliver significantly enhanced performance. This advanced technology will be available to customers worldwide through the Nissan and Infiniti product lines.

Nissan announced plans to install the VVEL system, which contributes up to a 10%*2 reduction in carbon-dioxide　emissions, on its products worldwide starting from FY07 under the Nissan Green　Program 2010. The first product to feature the VVEL technology is the Infiniti G37 coupe, scheduled to be unveiled at the upcoming New York International Auto Show in April, 2007.

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Alfonso Albaisa New Vice President of Nissan Design Europe

TRAPPES, France -- Alfonso E. Albaisa has been appointed vice president of Nissan Design Europe (NDE) located in Paddington, London, effective April 1, 2007.

Albaisa replaces Satoru Tai, who will return to Japan.

In his new role, the 42-year-old Cuban-American will head a team of more than 50 international designers, modelers and support staff. He will report directly to Shiro Nakamura, president of NDE and chief creative officer and senior vice president of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

"I expect Alfonso to be a great stimulus to Nissan Design Europe creations with his multicultural background, as well as the knowledge he has obtained through his experience working in North America and Japan," said Nakamura.

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Chevrolet Taxi Van Provides New Yorkers Greater Mobility

First Wheelchair-Accessible Van Approved for Taxi Use Debuts at New York Auto Show

NEW YORK – To help celebrate 100 years of the taxi cab in New York City, General Motors is placing into the city’s taxi fleet service the only vans approved to transport individuals with mobility-restricting disabilities or spinal cord injuries.

“General Motors is dedicated to making automotive transportation easier and more accessible for the millions of persons with disabilities,” said John Gaydash, director of marketing for GM Fleet and Commercial Operations. “With the debut of our new lowered-floor van for taxicabs, we are giving New Yorkers with disabilities a key element in maintaining independence – mobility.”

The taxi van uses a Chevrolet Uplander TC (Taxi Cab) that is modified by GM’s approved upfitter, El Dorado National. A stainless steel floor that is 12 inches lower than the standard floor offers a full 58 inches of interior height without a raised roof.

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S.C. Dealer sells 13 millionth Volkswagen

COLUMBIA, SC — Volkswagen of America, Inc. and Wray Volkswagen yesterday celebrated the sale of the 13 millionth Volkswagen vehicle in the United States, a Wolfsburg Edition Jetta sold at Wray Volkswagen in Columbia.

To celebrate this milestone sale, Volkswagen presented the owner, Kenneth "Frank" Phillips of Sumter, SC, with a waiver for the first 13 payments of the vehicle, a $1300 gas card and $1300 in authorized VW accessories.

Volkswagen also presented the dealership with a plaque for making the monumental sale.

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General Motors Recognized Among Top 50 in Diversity

DETROIT - General Motors has earned a coveted spot on the 2007 DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity® list. In addition to its top 50 ranking overall, GM was No. 5 on Diversity Inc.'s list of Top 10 Companies for African Americans.

"General Motors is much different from the average corporation; it is a true champion of diversity," said Luke Visconti, partner and cofounder of DiversityInc, a monthly business magazine and daily web site. "A total of 317 companies competed for a spot, a 100-percent increase in corporate participation in the Top 50 competition during the past three years."

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Mercedes-Benz Statement in Response to EPA SCR Guidelines

MONTVALE, N.J. -- Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management DaimlerChrysler and Head of the Mercedes Car Group issued the following statement today regarding the Environmental Protection Agency's announcement on SCR diesel guidelines:

"Mercedes-Benz welcomes and supports the EPA's announcement on Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) guidelines, which represent a critical next step for the future acceptance of diesel vehicles in the U.S. market. This decision, teamed with the Agency's recent mandate for Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel availability, serves to reinforce diesel's benefit as a viable alternative to help reduce fuel consumption and ultimately, reduce oil imports."

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GM's Stealth Minivans

If you count yourself among the many who swear you'd rather be run over than drive a minivan, chances are you either don't have children or own a sport-utility vehicle. If the former applies, may you be blessed with the good sense to buy a sports car, lest you find yourself one day alone on your deathbed, thinking back on four decades of commuting in Camrys.

For the rest of you, be alerted that General Motors wants to sell you a new vehicle targeted at your conceit. The Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook are the three flavors of this Neapolitan SUV, one that's more of a minivan without sliding doors than a traditional truck like those Americans have been gorging themselves on the past decade.

Before continuing, we should acknowledge that, yes, a few of you parents have demonstrated considerable good taste by continuing to embrace the family car, forcing the offspring to squeeze into cramped and spartan rear confines where they are sheltered from the orgy of multiple cupholders, DVD players and backseat audio and climate controls. Bully for you.

The greater procreating populace, however, are comfortable only when traveling with all the comforts, trappings and square-footage of a college dorm room. Hence the features list for GM's new SUV family, which contains all of the aforementioned stuff plus such how-did-we-ever-get-along-without-it extras like remote starting, a power liftgate and cargo-area audio controls (presumably for tailgating, unless you buy groceries with a particular affinity for classic rock).

The list continues with a 3.6-L V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission, plenty of airbags, stability control, a navigation unit and a rear parking assist system. There's little difference between the GMC and Saturn nameplates now on sale; the Buick will be available later this year as a 2008 model. Save for a few minor equipment choices restricted to one or the other, the Acadia and Outlook are mechanical twins available with or without all-wheel-drive.

Report: No bonuses for top GM executives

NEW YORK -- General Motors, which significantly improved its financial performance in 2006 but did not make a profit, will not pay cash bonuses to top executives for the second consecutive year, the New York Times reported. GM spokeswoman Renee Rashid-Merem told the newspaper that the decision affected about 20 people, including CEO Rick Wagoner and Vice Chairman Robert Lutz.

Pro Golfer to win Orange County Chopper

-- EDS to award Orange County Choppers custom motorcycle to 2007 EDS Byron Nelson Championship winner

-- Second chopper to be auctioned online to benefit tournament's children's charity

-- Design and build process to be featured on "American Chopper" TV series

PLANO, Texas -- EDS today announced it will award a motorcycle built by renowned Orange County Choppers, Inc. to the winner of the 2007 EDS Byron Nelson Championship. The first place prize chopper, a PGA TOUR first, will be awarded in addition to the $1.134 million winner's share of the tournament's purse at the 2007 EDS Byron Nelson Championship, April 26-29 at the TPC Four Seasons Resort in Irving, Texas.

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Bosch Carbon Dioxide Sensor Saves Fuel

New Control Strategy Reduces Energy Requirement

FARMINGTON HILLS -- Bosch has developed a new Climate Control Sensor (CCS) that monitors the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in a vehicle's passenger compartment while increasing the efficiency of the air conditioning system. The result is an enhanced electronic control of the air conditioning system and a corresponding reduction in energy demand.

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Honda Wants to Be Known for Safety

MARYSVILLE, Ohio — From the time it started selling cars in the United States 35 years ago, Honda has fostered a reputation for building fuel-efficient vehicles.

Now it is taking a new tack: it wants to join Volvo as an automaker best known for safety.

To get there, Honda is promoting safety as an essential part of its public image. It is offering front and side-curtain air bags and antilock brakes on most of its offerings, from the smallest cars to trucks, emphasizing that buyers need not pay top dollar for such protection.

It has also redesigned the frames of its vehicles to better spread out the impact of a crash. That redesign process, begun this decade in Japan, will be mostly complete this fall across its lineup, when the newest version of its flagship Accord sedan reaches showrooms.

Honda’s campaign, known internally as “Safety for Everyone,” is showing results, with some of the auto industry’s best scores on government and insurance industry crash tests.

Eight of its vehicles, from the small CR-V sport utility to the Odyssey minivan, can claim to be among the safest cars on the road, with five-star ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in front and side crash tests, as well as the top rankings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety on a variety of crash tests.

Those results exceed the ratings for General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota and even Volvo, the company whose image Honda is striving to emulate. The Ford Motor Company and the Korean automaker Hyundai have a similar number of vehicles that receive those best-in-class scores, though they are not emphasizing safety as much as Honda does in its marketing, including its Web site.

Gasoline prices set to hit new record highs

San Francisco's surging gasoline prices stand poised to smash their old record of $3.36 for a gallon of regular, perhaps as early as today.

Some stations in the city already have passed that record, set last May.

Although San Francisco's average gasoline price reached $3.34 Thursday, individual stations were charging as much as $3.98.

And yes, that's $3.98 for regular. Want premium? At least one San Francisco station was charging $4.18 per gallon.

The national average for a gallon of regular stands at $2.62, up 48 cents since the end of January. California's average is $3.22, up 70 cents in the same period. No other state average tops $3 per gallon, although Hawaii might pass that mark this weekend.

March 29, 2007

Chrysler Group the First to Offer SIRIUS Backseat TV

* SIRIUS Backseat TV offered exclusively in 2008 Model Year Chrysler Group vehicles

* Debuts on all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans

* Three channels of live, family TV programming from Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network delivered directly to the vehicle

* Builds on Chrysler Group’s innovative technology leadership, which includes MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System, Swivel ‘n Go seat system, Chill Zone cooled beverage storage bin, heated and cooled cup holder, articulating liftgate speakers, LOAD ‘N GO slide-out cargo load floor and removable/rechargeable cargo light

New York - Chrysler Group and SIRIUS Satellite Radio announced today that Chrysler Group will be the exclusive auto manufacturer to offer SIRIUS Backseat TV™ in its vehicle lineup in the 2008 model year.

For the first time, live TV programming from the most trusted brands in family entertainment—Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network—will be available through SIRIUS Backseat TV in select 2008 model Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles, beginning with the all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans.

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Mopar Chooses Don Petco As First “Top Eliminator” Award Winner

* Don Petco restored a rare 1964 Dodge Ramcharger 330

* Mopar developed the year-long program to recognize the most passionate and skilled enthusiasts and their restored or modified cars

* Winners and their vehicles will attend the 2007 SEMA Show

Center Line, Mich. - Mopar Performance Parts announced that it has chosen the first winner of its 2007 Top Eliminator award. Don Petco of Shelby Township, Mich., restored a rare 1964 Dodge Ramcharger 330 that he displayed at Autorama in Detroit earlier in March.

Mopar developed the new year-long program to recognize the most passionate and skilled Mopar enthusiasts and their restored or modified cars. The eight winners chosen and their vehicles will attend this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on Oct. 30 – Nov. 2, 2007.

“I’m very excited. I just finished the restoration. It’s a pretty rare car,” said Petco. “My father worked at Chrysler for 30 years. When I was 13 … I sat in an original ‘64 Dodge Ramcharger super stock car with HEMI®. I told myself that someday I would own one.”

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NADA's Automotive Career Month Kicks Off Next Week

Students to Explore Auto Careers in New Car & Truck Dealerships Nationwide

McLean, Va. -- Students across the U.S. will learn about the wide variety of career opportunities available in automobile and truck dealerships during Automotive Career Month in April -- an initiative sponsored by the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA).

Young people participating in Automotive Career Month will receive a "behind-the-scenes" tour of a new-car or truck dealership in their community to see first-hand how the business works in all areas of its operation. During the event, they will have an opportunity to interact directly with dealership employees.

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When to Hang Up the Car Keys?

Special Report In April 2 Issue Examines Elderly Drivers

By 2030, one in four drivers will be over age 65

DETROIT -- With life expectancy rising and baby boomers aging, the issue of elderly drivers is becoming a factor in more and more accidents on America's roads. The April 2 issue of AutoWeek magazine looks at the sensitive subject of reevaluating licensing laws and adding special requirements for the aging population.

AutoWeek Senior Editor Kevin Wilson delves into the public policy issue that can't be decided only on age because every driver is an individual.

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Tour of Cars and Charity Gala Kick Off Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction

Chip Foose, Steve Davis, President, Barrett-Jackson, and Craig Jackson, CEO, Barrett-Jackson, unveiling the 2007 Foose Coupe at the Barrett-Jackson Gala

PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Palm Beach became a hotbed of automotive passion as Craig Jackson and Steve Davis of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company hosted a private tour and sneak peak of the event on Wednesday evening for select South Florida media and VIPs at the 5th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Palm Beach, Fla. Renowned designer Chip Foose and executives from Metalcrafters and Unique Performance, the dynamic team behind the Foose Coupe, joined Jackson and Davis to highlight the auction’s premier vehicles and discussed their love of collectible automobiles. Over 600 of the world’s finest collector cars will cross the block at No Reserve from Thursday, March 29 – Sunday, April 1, 2007, in Palm Beach, Fla.

“South Florida has become the East Coast epicenter for world-class automobile collectors, which has validated our commitment to bring in and offer the most diverse group of vehicles ever in South Florida,” said Jackson, CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “We’re offering something for everyone, from hardcore muscle car gurus and sports cars fans to those searching for the ultimate hot rod like the Foose Coupe. Chip has become the leader in automotive innovation and making dream cars a reality.”

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Four College Fans Get The Shot Of a Lifetime ... Shooting Basketballs From The Goodyear Blimp

Goodyear Announces Contestants for the Goodyear 'Get There' Blimp Shot Contest

AKRON, Ohio -- After three weeks of grueling tournament play, four college basketball teams finally have a shot to "Get There" - to the national championship. And, in no less dramatic fashion, four lucky students representing their schools hope their world-record basketball shot from 500 feet away will also "Get There."

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today announced the four students who will compete in the Goodyear "Get There" Blimp Shot Contest taking place this Friday, March 30th, in the shadows of the Men's Division I college basketball tournament.

Stacey Freyer, a sophomore from Woodville, Ohio, will be representing Ohio State University. From Georgetown University will be Jennifer Hanson, a senior out of Turtle Lake, North Dakota. Chris Smith, a senior hailing from South Lake Tahoe, California, will represent UCLA. And, for the University of Florida is Alex Perez, a senior from Miami, Florida. The students were selected by their school's athletic department.

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VW Jetta, Passat finalists for 2007 Advertising Awards

IAG Research awards given during the 2007 New York International Auto Show opening press breakfast on April 4th, at the Javits Center, New York City

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat advertisements are finalists for “Most Effective Overall Ad” in the non-luxury category by IAG Research. IAG Research is a TV advertisement and product placement effectiveness measurement company.

The Passat wagon was recognized as a finalist for the “Most Effective Established Nameplate Launch Campaign.” Each award category is based on national advertising that began airing in 2006, and recognizes automakers who produce ads that effectively reach the television viewing audience. Effectiveness is achieved through a combination of breakthrough creativity and strategic media placement.

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Lear Honored by Toyota for Superior Supplier Diversity and Quality Excellence

vSOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- Lear Corporation today announced it was honored by Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) for its accomplishments in the areas of superior supplier diversity and excellence in quality. The awards were presented to Lear this week during the Annual TEMA Supplier Awards Ceremony.

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AMG turns 40 with an anniversary edition

CL65 AMG: THE NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE COUPE:

Also Available as "40th Anniversary" Limited Edition Model

Two special events make 2007 a particularly significant year for Mercedes-AMG: the arrival of a new top model – the CL65 AMG high-performance coupe with its 450 kW /612 hp V12 engine – which rounds off the unique AMG range and which also, in "40th Anniversary" limited edition guise, marks a special anniversary: the high-performance brand of the Mercedes Car Group (MCG) celebrates its 40th birthday in 2007.

Another dream car has joined the AMG model range in the form of the new CL65 AMG. The powerful AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine familiar from the S65 AMG and SL65 AMG twelve-cylinder models delivers a truly impressive driving experience in the exclusive high-performance coupe. Its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp and maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters are reflected in its outstanding performance data: the CL65 AMG attains 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reaches the 200-km/h mark in 13.3 seconds. Its maximum speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

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BMW marks 3 decades of soft-top 3 series w/book, DVD

Distinctive design, a unique identity and undiluted dynamics are the stand-out virtues of the open-top BMW 3 Series. And BMW Mobile Tradition is celebrating the 2007 launch of the new 3 Series Convertible with its "Bracing Breeze Worldwide. BMW 3 Series Convertibles." campaign. The development and success of the 3 Series Convertible are documented in photographs, a short image clip and a book.

Munich -- The publication "Bracing Breeze Worldwide. BMW 3 Series Convertibles." takes the reader on a guided tour of the six models, from the first BMW Baur Topcabriolet of 1978 right up to the new 2007 3 Series Convertible. New photos show the cars in some of the world's most beautiful surroundings and on some of its most captivating roads.

The first Baur Topcabriolet, for example, is seen sauntering along picturesque costal roads on the Côte d'Azur. The third-generation 3 Series Convertible pits itself against the sandstorms and scorching desert heat of Morocco. And the 2007 drop-top revels in the glorious solitude of California's Highway 1.

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Chevrolet Prepared to Unveil Three Minicar Concepts in New York

The Chevrolet Trax is one of three Chevrolet minicar global concepts that General Motors will unveil at the New York International Auto Show on April 4. Designed to appeal to young car buyers in urban markets, these concepts will prove that art needn’t take a back seat just because the canvas is small. The highly creative concepts drive the energy, diversity and excitement of urban life into cars that deliver good-looking fun, fuel economy and value.

After the April 4 unveiling, democracy lovers will get the chance to pick their favorite by visiting www.vote4chevrolet.com and cast their vote for the concept they prefer. The results will help Chevy determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, and which design resonates best with potential buyers.

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Audi Announces 2008 R8 U.S. Pricing

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Audi of America, LLC announced today pricing for the all-new 2008 R8 sports car. The R8 with a six- speed manual transmission will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $109,000 when it launches this fall in the United States. Models equipped with the six-speed R tronic automatic gearbox will start at $118,000.

The R8 is the first mid-engine sports car Audi has ever produced. With a 420 hp V8 4.2L FSI engine and rear-biased quattro(R) all-wheel drive system, the R8 has the performance capabilities unlike any Audi before it. With a zero to 60 mph time of 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph, the R8 is the fastest Audi ever produced. The lightweight aluminum frame and body and 44:56 front-to-rear weight distribution give the R8 tremendous handling capabilities, with the balance expected of a mid-engine sports car.

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Honda Adds New Type R to Japanese Civic Lineup

TOKYO, Japan - March 29, 2007– Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the all-new Civic Type R, a pure sports edition of the Civic with further enhanced driving performance. The new Civic Type R will go on sale throughout Japan on Friday, March 30.

This new Civic Type R was developed to make the driver feel at one with the car for the ultimate driving experience in all driving conditions, including on circuits.

The all-new Civic Type R comes equipped with a specially tuned 2.0-liter normally aspirated engine matched to a 6-speed manual transmission. A lighter, more rigid body shell, specially tuned suspension, 18-inch tires and large 17-inch front disc brakes contribute to the Civic Type R’s ability to push the performance envelope. Newly developed aerodynamic devices further enhance high-speed performance while giving the wide and low form a more aggressive look. Front bucket seats, a unique instrument panel and other performance accessories contribute to an easier and more responsive drive.

Type R models are specially tuned to take full advantage of the potential of the base model and provide a racing car-like driving feel. First offered on the NSX in 1992, the Type R range was extended to the Integra in 1995, and the Civic in 1997. This latest all-new Civic Type R is the distillation of 15 years of technological progress and the latest expression of Honda’s “Challenging Spirit.”

Key Features of the Civic Type R:

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XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Service Expands to 50 Markets

XM NavTraffic Subscribers Now Able to Access Data for Six New Markets, Including Three Canadian Cities

WASHINGTON -- XM, the nation's leading satellite radio service with more than 7.6 million subscribers, today announced that its real-time XM NavTraffic satellite information service for GPS navigation will add six new markets, allowing XM NavTraffic subscribers in the U.S. to access the real-time traffic data service in 50 major North American markets, beginning March 31. For the first time, XM NavTraffic subscribers in the U.S. will also be able to view real-time traffic data in three Canadian cities.

The six new XM NavTraffic markets include: Fresno, CA; Jacksonville, FL; Montreal, QB; Salt Lake City, UT; Toronto, ON; and Vancouver, BC. In addition, Portland, OR now has expanded coverage with traffic flow data available allowing drivers to see how fast the traffic is moving.

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Land Rover Offering SIRIUS Satellite Radio as Standard Equipment

Land Rover offering SIRIUS as standard equipment on 2007 model year Range Rover and Supercharged Range Rover Sport

SIRIUS now available on all Land Rover vehicles with the launch of the all-new LR2

DETROIT and NEW YORK -- Land Rover and SIRIUS Satellite Radio today announced that SIRIUS is available as standard equipment on the flagship 2007 model year Range Rover and Supercharged Range Rover Sport. SIRIUS and Land Rover also announced that SIRIUS will be available as a factory installed option on the all-new LR2 that goes on sale in the U.S. next week.

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World Car of the Year Announces Top Three Finalists

Winner to be named at New York Auto Show on April 5

NEW YORK -- The countdown continues! From an initial entry list of twenty-eight (28) new vehicles from all over the world, then a short list of ten finalists, the top three contenders for the third annual World Car of the Year awards were announced today by the international accounting firm KPMG. The winners of the 2007 WCOTY will be unveiled during Press Preview at the upcoming New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) on Thursday, April 5.

The 2007 World Car of the Year top three finalists are, in alphabetical order:

-- Audi TT
-- Lexus LS460
-- MINI

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Posted by Frank at 8:41 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

Zipcar, Mass. Enhance Partnership to Reduce Car Ownership, Increase Commuting Options

Partnership introduces Zipcars to additional stations, brings car sharing to Malden, Quincy, Newton, and Braintree

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- To reduce car ownership and provide more commuting options, Zipcar and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) today announced a multi-faceted partnership that will expand the Zipcar program to a dozen T locations along the Green, Orange and Red lines, making it easier for people to live and work car-free in the city.

Partnered with Zipcar since 2002, the MBTA is the first transit agency in the country to house vehicles at various transit stations throughout its service area. Through this partnership, the MBTA will expand Zipcar locations from three to twelve. Currently, a Zipcar is available at Alewife, Forest Hills, JFK/UMass, and Savin Hill stations. Over the next few months, 20 more spaces will become available at 8 stations along the Red, Orange, and Green lines.

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Four 'Regular Joes' Become Driving Stars at Dunlop Drivers Cup World Finals

AKRON, Ohio-- Some "well-oiled machines" will be competing for the United States in the Dunlop Drivers Cup World Finals from April 14-24. In this case, the "machines" won't be lubricated sports cars, all-terrain vehicles or off-road motorcycles.

Rather, the "finely tuned" are Lee A.G. Clark, of Topanga, Calif.; Kevin Clarke, of Fryeburg, Maine; Dave Furchak, of Romulus, Mich.; and Egon Szenttamasy, of Pembroke Pines, Fla.

They say they're prepared to compete at the highest level for a grueling 10-day driving challenge from Hanau, Germany, to Malaga, Spain.

Each says they're training hard - albeit each in his own way - to compete against Europe's best drivers. For example, Clark is adding five sessions a week of cardiovascular workouts to his "usual fix of weekend (rock) climbing."

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Online exchange for real-world parking spaces

Peasy.com is an online marketplace for parking spaces, enabling drivers to search for and book spaces before they leave home, and letting British homeowners monetize unused parking spaces by adding them to the Peasy network.

To rent out a parking space, the owner needs to register and enter all relevant details, including price, when the space is available, and whether it will be rented out daily, weekly, or both. Those who require parking can then search for suitable parking spaces and securely book them online, or first negotiate a better price.

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U.S. Automakers Endorse Japan Currency Manipulation Act

Applaud Stabenow Legislation to Force Action Against Japanese Currency Misalignment

WASHINGTON -- The Automotive Trade Policy Council, whose members include General Motors, Ford and DaimlerChrysler, praised legislation introduced today by Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) to force the Japanese government to take action to stop subsidizing millions of auto exports to the U.S. by bringing its currency into proper alignment with the U.S. dollar. The Japanese Currency Manipulation Act would require the administration to immediately begin the process of pressuring Japan directly as well as coordinating with other major industrialized countries and the IMF to put a stop to Japan's damaging currency policy.

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Arkansas Enacts SEMA Street Rod/Custom Vehicle Bill

WASHINGTON -- Arkansas joined the growing list of states to enact SEMA model legislation to amend the vehicle titling and registration classification for street rods and create a classification for custom vehicles. The bill was approved by the Arkansas State Legislature and signed into law by Governor Mike Beebe.

Under the new law, a street rod is defined as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. Importantly, kit cars and replica vehicles will be assigned a certificate of title bearing the same model year designation as the production vehicle they most closely resemble. Arkansas joins Virginia, Washington, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Missouri, Montana and Rhode Island as states that have enacted similar bills into law.

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US Automakers Say Report Confirms Urgent Need to Strengthen Yen, Reduce Risk of Global Recession

Yen at 'lowest level since 1986' on a real effective basis according to report

WASHINGTON -- A new report by 30 leading economists calling for an increase of 25-30 percent in the value of the yen to the dollar is "a timely and urgent reminder to US policymakers about the dangers to the US and global economy if action is not taken to address the extreme and dangerous misalignment of the dollar with major Asian currencies, particularly Japan's," said Stephen Collins, president of the Automotive Trade Policy Council, a trade association representing General Motors, Ford and DaimlerChrysler Corp.

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Volvo Selects Kenexa to Facilitate Global Strategic Recruiting Initiatives

Kenexa Recruiter BrassRing Provides Global Solution to Meet Volvo's Unique Needs

WAYNE, Pa. -- Kenexa, a leading provider of talent acquisition and retention solutions, today announced it has been selected to support the global recruiting initiatives of Goteborg, Sweden-based AB Volvo. AB Volvo is one of the world's leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment, drive systems for marine and industrial applications and aerospace components and services.

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Motorola's First In-Car Streaming Audio Solution Now Available at Verizon

Hum to the Beat or Make a Quick Call With the Motorola Automotive Music & Hands-free System

From the CTIA WIRELESS 2007 show, Verizon Wireless, operator of the nation's most reliable wireless network, and Motorola, Inc. announced the exclusive availability of the new Motorola Automotive Music & Hands-free System T605. Available at Verizon Wireless Communications Stores across the country on April 6, including those within Circuit City stores, this new car kit gives music-lovers access to digital music and phone calls directly through one car sound system.

"Customers will enjoy the fact that their music will stream wirelessly from any Bluetooth(R) stereo mobile phone, but when a call comes in the T605 pauses the music and resumes it when the call ends," said Patrick Bucci, director of accessories for Verizon Wireless. "This is an easy way for Verizon Wireless customers to take their music with them wherever they go."

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Neil Schloss Named Vice President and Treasurer; Ann Marie Petach To Leave Ford

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company has announced that Neil Schloss has been named vice president and treasurer, effective immediately. In his new role, Schloss will report to Don Leclair, executive vice president and chief financial officer.

"Neil has played a critical role in securing the funding we need to implement our restructuring plan," Leclair said. "He's taking the reigns of the office at a key time and his background and experience in treasury will be vital to our success going forward."

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roadreport.mobi Pioneers Mobile-Internet Service for Motorists

MILTON KEYNES, England -- Solutioneering Ltd, the leading-edge mobile solutions provider, has today launched a free traffic information service, roadreport.mobi, to keep the savvy road user ahead of the crowd.

At present, road users wishing to stay abreast of the latest traffic conditions have few options. The majority rely on premium-rate services, with their financial sting, whilst others find themselves awaiting "Traffic Alert" radio broadcasts. As these broadcasts cannot be targeted to individual user needs they put the road user at a distinct disadvantage, meaning information is often provided too late to be of use.

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Posted by Frank at 8:20 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

Bosch Start-Stop Systems Reduce Consumption, Emissions

BMW system featuring Bosch starter to begin series production in March

FARMINGTON HILLS -- Bosch's Smart Electronic stop-start system will begin production at BMW in March 2007, with first variants of the BMW 1-series featuring the start-stop system as standard equipment. The start-stop system switches off a vehicle's engine in stationary situations, such as traffic jams or stop lights.

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Hydrogen researchers try fuel cell powered plane

Fuel Cell Demonstrator Airplane Powered By a UQM(R) Electric Motor Prepares for Ground and Flight Testing

FREDERICK, Colo. -- UQM TECHNOLOGIES, INC., a developer of alternative energy technologies, announced today that a UQM(R) propulsion system will be turning the propeller of a single seat demonstrator airplane powered only by a fuel cell and lightweight batteries as part of planned experimental flight tests this year by Boeing Research and Technology - Europe (BR&TE) and its industry partners. Flight tests, which will take place in Spain, will demonstrate for the first time that a manned airplane can maintain a straight level flight with fuel cells as the only power source.

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Hyundai luxury ready to roll

NEW YORK -- South Korean auto maker Hyundai will unveil a large V8-powered luxury car at the New York Auto Show in early April. While the Genesis is officially a concept car, a production version will go on sale in the U.S. early next year, the company said.

"When it arrives in 2008, it will catapult Hyundai into competition against some potent rivals, and Genesis is up for the challenge," Hyundai Motor America chief operating officer Steve Wilhite said in an announcement.

The car's size and power put it in competition with cars from BMW, Cadillac and Mercedes-Benz.

Hyundai has, for many years, sold large rear-wheel-drive sedans in its home market of South Korea. The production version of the Genesis concept will be sold in South Korea and other markets as well as in the U.S.

The Genesis concept will be powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine capable of producing "well over 300 horsepower," the company said. Power will go to the car's rear wheels through a six-speed manually shiftable automatic transmission.

March 28, 2007

Trio of Hyundai Vehicles Receives Five-Star Safety Ratings From NHTSA

2007 Veracruz, Santa Fe and Elantra Earn Highest Government Crash Test Ratings

FOUNTAIN VALLEY -- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave five-star crash test ratings, the highest government rating under the agency's New Car Assessment Program, to the all-new 2007 Hyundai Veracruz and Santa Fe for both frontal and side-impact crash tests. The 2007 Elantra also scored five stars for frontal crash performance and Veracruz earned four stars for rollover performance.

NHTSA uses a consumer-friendly ratings system -- ranging from one to five stars, with five being the highest. Sixty-three 2007 models were assessed. Categories included sport utility vehicles, heavy and light passenger cars, pickups, vans and compact and medium passenger cars. Beginning in September 2007, government star ratings will be listed on the window stickers of new vehicles.

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Michelin Plans to Cover Los Angeles and Las Vegas for 2008

Prestigious Michelin Guides will select hotels and restaurants in both cities

LOS ANGELES -- Michelin announced today that it will expand its exclusive hotel and restaurant guide series in North America to include guides for Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The Michelin Guide Los Angeles 2008 and Michelin Guide Las Vegas 2008 are scheduled to arrive in stores November 2007.

The Michelin Guide Los Angeles will cover hotels and restaurants in Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Westwood, Downtown, Santa Monica, Ventura Blvd. and Pasadena; the Michelin Guide Las Vegas will include Las Vegas Blvd. and Downtown, as well as areas east and west of the Strip.

The Michelin Guide, whose rating system is internationally recognized as the height of culinary success, is published in 15 editions covering 21 countries. It also includes a Guide to New York City, introduced in November 2005, and another to San Francisco, Bay Area & Wine Country, introduced in October 2006. And earlier this month, Michelin announced it would be entering the Asian market this year with the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2008, to be released in November.

For their debut in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, the Guides will provide a selection and rating, in all categories of comfort and prices, of area restaurants and hotels, in a reader-friendly layout made especially for the American market and its distinctive culinary and hotel landscape.

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Win a 2007 Kia Rondo

''Going Home in Style'' Virtual Kia Sweepstakes Launches on Move.com

Play to Find Out How Many Virtual Moving Boxes Can Fit into a 2007 Kia Rondo

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- Planning home improvements this spring to spruce up your home and garden? You will need a vehicle to handle those trips to the hardware store and garden center. Looking for a new home? How about a new vehicle to go along with it?

Move, Inc. has joined forces with Kia Motors America for the Kia “Going Home in Style” Sweepstakes. Consumers log on to http://move.corsis.com/kiarondo to play the virtual sweepstakes and enter for their chance to win an all-new 2007 Kia Rondo.

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Amelia Island Concours Taps Tom Cotter for Co-Chairman

Respected Motorsports Veteran/Enthusiast to Work Closely With Show Founder to Transition Duties

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance Foundation, Inc. announced today that Tom Cotter will join the organization as Co-Chairman, working side-by-side with show founder and chairman Bill Warner to take over duties of the annual show. This year marked the 12th edition of the Amelia Island Concours and an estimated 18,000 people attended the three-day event.

"With Amelia firmly established on the auto enthusiast's calendar and on solid financial ground, now is the right time to bring someone in who can continue the show should I be unable to do so," says Warner. "A succession plan has been in the works for sometime now and Tom is the perfect fit. Besides his tremendous background in motorsports and the automotive industry overall, Tom shares my passion for the automobile and the collectors who keep it alive. This was a very important part of my decision."

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Valley Toyota Dealers Honor Latino Entrepreneurs

Toyota Issues Valley-Wide Call for Nominations

PHOENIX -- The Valley Toyota Dealer Association today announced a new awards program, Avanzando Confiados, and is seeking nominations for small-business leaders across the Valley who best represent the spirit, drive, courage, imagination, and discipline of Latino entrepreneurship in Arizona.

"This year we set out to recognize the growing number of Latino entrepreneurs in the Valley and their contributions to our communities," said Bob Staup, president of the Valley Toyota Dealer Association. "Latino small business leaders are bringing about positive change and we want to call attention to their work and learn what makes them successful."

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Report: Hybrids/Diesel Engines Steadily Gaining U.S. Market Share

NEW YORK -- Conventional gas engines will remain dominant in the U.S. market, but hybrids and diesels are steadily gaining market share, especially as gas prices and concerns about global warming rise and technology advances, concludes a report by J.D. Power and Associates (which, like Standard & Poor's, is a subsidiary of McGraw-Hill Companies).

The article, "The Steady-But Slow-Rise of Hybrids and Diesels in the U.S. Auto Market," published March 22, 2007, is part of a special report on global automakers published on RatingsDirect, the real-time, Web-based source for Standard & Poor's credit ratings, research, and risk analysis, and in the April 4 issue of CreditWeek.

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General Motors seen not bidding for Chrysler

General Motors Corp. is unlikely to make a first-round bid for DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler unit, leaving just private equity firms and auto-parts supplier Magna in the running, a source familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.

UAW to Resist Making Significant Concessions To Auto Companies

DETROIT -- The United Auto Workers union, kicking off a two-day bargaining convention here, said it plans to protect workers in employer restructurings and that it will resist moves by corporations to transfer risks associated with employment benefits to workers.

In a 103-page proposed resolution document, distributed Tuesday to UAW representatives attending the convention, the union said, "UAW members will resist efforts by employers to escape their health care and pension obligations by transferring risk to individual workers."

The UAW said it will vigorously oppose efforts to install more health savings accounts and individual 401(k) accounts in place of defined benefits.

The UAW will sit down with General Motors Corp., Ford Motor Co. and DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group in July to hammer out a new, four-year collective bargaining agreement. The auto makers, each engaged in multiyear restructuring agendas, are expected to ask for significant concessions related to health care and other benefits.

The UAW has lost considerable ground in recent years as dwindling membership numbers and the fading clout of Detroit auto makers have diluted the union's influence.

Posted by Frank at 2:04 PM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

UAW rejects new wage deal from Delphi

The UAW has rejected a new offer from Delphi Corp. and the private equity groups looking to take Delphi out of bankruptcy, UAW Vice President Cal Rapson said today. The offer was "insulting, and the ball is back in their court," Rapson said in an interview today before the start of the final day of the 2007 Special Convention on Collective Bargaining.

Posted by Frank at 2:03 PM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

DaimlerChrysler Expands Concept Plug-in Hybrid Program

* Next-generation plug-in hybrid concept will be built on the all-new 2007 Dodge Sprinter platform

* DaimlerChrysler is the only automaker to test plug-in hybrid technology in the United States with customers

* Dodge Sprinter Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) can drive up to 20 miles on electric-only power

Auburn Hills -- In a display of commitment to the development of hybrid powertrain architecture and advanced batteries, DaimlerChrysler is expanding its concept plug-in hybrid program to include the all-new 2007 Dodge Sprinter.

Up to 20 Dodge Sprinter Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) will be placed in the United States between now and the first quarter of 2008 as part of a test-fleet program. Four of the vehicles, built on the previous-generation Dodge Sprinter, already are in operation with customers. DaimlerChrysler is the only auto manufacturer currently evaluating a variety of plug-in hybrid powertrain (diesel and gas) configurations in real-world, customer-operation service within the United States.

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Honda Civic 1.8 Sedan named South African motoring guild 2007 Car of the Year

South Africa – The all-new Civic (in sedan form) was given the highest motoring accolade in South Africa by beating off stiff competition and being awarded the title of 2007 Car of the Year for South Africa.

"We are extremely honored that the Civic has been singled out for the SA Car of the Year Award 2007," said Honda South Africa's Managing Director, Hiroaki Shibata. “We have endeavored to provide the South African customer with an exceptional value-for-money package and we are thrilled that the Guild has recognized our efforts with this award.”

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Honda Continues Record Monthly Pace for Worldwide Auto Production

TOKYO – Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced its automobile production, domestic sales, and export results for the month of February 2007.

Due to increased production for the Japan domestic market and overseas market, domestic production experienced a year-on-year increase for the ninth consecutive month (since June 2006).

Due mainly to increased production in Asia, overseas production experienced a year-on-year increase for the nineteenth consecutive month (since August 2005). Honda achieved a new production record in Europe and Asia and China for the month of February. Honda also set a new monthly record for overseas production for the month of February.

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Magna Powertrain Germany is the Porsche “Supplier of the Year”

Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer presents its “Supplier Awards 2007”

Stuttgart/Leipzig. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, based in Stuttgart, Germany, honored Magna Powertrain Germany GmbH, Roitzsch, yesterday in Leipzig as its “Supplier of the Year” for. The company has worked together with the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer since 2002 and is particularly convincing with its performance in the development and manufacture of powertrain systems and components. Thus, Magna Powertrain supplies the transfer case for the sporting off-road vehicle Cayenne.

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DaimlerChrysler Awards Fellowships that Lead to Minority Media Ownership

* Reva Squire and Dale Murray Named 2007 Fellowship Recipients

* Fellows will participate in rigorous two-year curriculum

* The company pledges an additional $25,000 to renew its commitment to increasing minority media ownership

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- DaimlerChrysler Corporation and the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) has named Reva Squire and Dale Murray as recipients of the 2007 NABOB DaimlerChrysler Management Fellowship — a two-year initiative designed to foster the development of African-Americans and other minorities who have the talent and the desire to be radio or television station owners.

“DaimlerChrysler is extremely pleased to build on our initial commitment to NABOB as the exclusive sponsor of the NABOB DaimlerChrysler Management Fellowship,” said Frank Fountain, DaimlerChrysler Senior Vice President – External Affairs and Public Policy (Auburn Hills). “We welcome Ms. Squire and Mr. Murray to the program and believe this fellowship will provide the opportunities for them to receive the knowledge and experience necessary for future media ownership.”

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Toyota Honors Top Suppliers For 2006

Eleven suppliers honored with Superior Award at annual ceremony including Delphi, Johnson Control and Lear

Erlanger, KY -- Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) today presented awards for its top North American suppliers in 2006. The awards acknowledge those suppliers who have met Toyota's highest standards in quality, delivery, diversity, technology/development and value improvement for parts and materials.

The following suppliers were recognized with Superior Awards in the areas of Quality, Delivery and Supplier Diversity:

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Austin Mazda Dealer Reaches Iconic Status

Celebrating more than three decades in the automotive industry, Roger Beasley is the “King of the Road”

Austin, Texas — Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced the 35 th anniversary of Roger Beasley Mazda. This milestone makes Austin home to the longest-standing and largest Mazda dealership in the Lone Star State.

As music legends Willie Nelson, Clifford Antone and Stevie Ray Vaughn were starting the live music scene in Austin, Texas-native and University of Texas graduate Roger Beasley began what has become a long and legendary career in the automotive industry. At the same time, Japanese automaker Mazda was beginning to capture attention in the United States. Intrigued by the company’s exciting car line, he opened Roger Beasley Mazda in March of 1972.

“I started out in the business with one goal in mind--to sell quality cars that are fun to drive,” said Beasley. “Today the Mazda line, with its zoom-zoom mantra and new retail philosophy, makes that an easy task.”

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VW bags multiple ad awards

Art Directors Club presents 25 awards to DDB and Grabarz & Partner - Volkswagen is customer with most awards

Wolfsburg/Berlin - The creative agencies DDB Berlin/Düsseldorf and Grabarz & Partner Hamburg received a total of 25 awards last weekend for their Volkswagen advertising campaigns, making Volkswagen the customer with the most awards. The accolades presented by Art Directors Club (ADC) included a gold medal for the VW Fox radio spots created by DDB Berlin and the VW Phaeton cinema spot designed by Grabarz & Partner.

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Nissan Produces 2-Millionth Vehicle At Aguascalientes Plant

AGUASCALIENTES -- Nissan Mexicana celebrated another milestone with the production of its 2 millionth vehicle from the Aguascalientes plant.

The car, a blue Sentra SE-R Spec V, will not be sold. Instead, portions of the vehicle will be cut away and it will be turned into an exhibition making internal structure and mechanics visible.

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Buick Primes The New York Auto Show With Early Introduction Of 'Super' Buicks

Buick returns 'SUPER' name after 50 years to designate premium models

NEW YORK –Buick has rekindled a name from its storied 20th-century past to mark the beginning of a new level of refinement: Super. The badge is designated exclusively for Buick’s most premium, powerful models and returns to Buick vehicles after 50 years. It will debut on the 2008 model year LaCrosse and Lucerne sedans.

“We’re bringing back the Super badge to represent our most premium models,” said Steve Shannon, Buick general manager. “Our Supers are not just about increased horsepower; they represent an elevation in design, premium content and ride characteristics that are exclusive to the Super badge.”

The Supers are engineered for Buick by the GM Performance Division to inspire performance on demand. The LaCrosse Super is powered by a 300-horsepower (224 kW)* 5.3L small-block V-8 with GM’s Active Fuel Management technology. The LaCrosse Super’s chassis has been sport-tuned to deliver responsive handling characteristics, and the vehicle maintains Buick’s renowned quietness inside.

The Lucerne Super adds a more powerful version of the legendary 4.6L Northstar V-8. It is rated at 292 horsepower (218 kW)*, an increase of more than 6 percent over existing models. The Super has an enhanced chassis with a specially tuned version of Lucerne ’s Magnetic Ride Control system, for a refined, premium ride that simultaneously enables crisp, responsive handling.

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Success for the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class: More than 100,000 Units Delivered to Customers

* Positive customer response as an impressive proof of the success of Mercedes-Benz’ product strategy

* U.S. and Germany are the top sales markets for the four-door coupe

* CLS 350 CGI offers world’s first direct-injection gasoline engine, cutting fuel consumption by ten percent despite higher performance

Stuttgart -- Mercedes-Benz is reporting very positive results for its CLS-Class: More than 100,000 units of the innovative four-door coupe have been delivered to customers around the world since the vehicle was launched in October 2004.

“The CLS-Class combines the elegant design vocabulary and dynamics of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a sedan in a completely unmatched way,” says Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Mercedes Car Group, responsible for Sales and Marketing. “The extraordinarily positive customer response to a model that is still unique underscores Mercedes-Benz’ role as a trendsetter in the development of new vehicle concepts and impressively demonstrates the success of our product strategy.”

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DaimlerChrysler Opens Sprinter Assembly Plant in Charleston, S.C.

* Inauguration with Governor Mark Sanford

* Offered under Dodge and Freightliner brands, U.S. now second-largest market for Sprinter

* All-new 2007 Sprinter is longer, wider and taller, and features the segment's most best-in-class advantages

* More than 25 advanced safety and security features, including all-new ADAPTIVE ESP®

* New Sprinter arrives in Spring

Charleston, S.C. -- The DaimlerChrysler plant in Ladson, South Carolina, just outside Charleston, today officially kicks off production of the Sprinter for the U.S. market under the Dodge and Freightliner brands. The plant was inaugurated in the presence of South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford.

The benchmark in its class, the Sprinter has been assembled and sold in the U.S. since 2001 and has captured a firm commercial customer base of knowledgeable business owners, fleet mangers and van buyers looking for even more from their work vehicle.

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Spring Breakers Save Time and Money with Vehicle Check-up

Goodwrench says Every Vehicle Should Have a Multi-Point Inspection Before Departing on a Road Trip

DETROIT – As spring approaches, roads and highways will become busier with students driving to popular spring break destinations, parents transporting students home from college, and families going on vacation.

Along with the increased amount of automobile travel, the chance for roadside breakdowns and accidents rise. AAA reports that they receive 29 million roadside assistance calls every year, with 13 million of those requiring towing, usually to a repair shop.

“Before you take that Spring Break road trip, it’s critical to pay attention to a few very crucial items – tire and batteries are very important,” said Robert Sinclair, AAA of New York. “Batteries don’t last forever so they need to be checked to make sure that they are clean, and if the battery is more than three years old, have a load check performed. Also make sure tires are properly inflated.”

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GM Reveals 2008 Cadillac STS, Buick Super and HUMMER Alpha Performance Models

Saab BioPower 100 Concept at New York Auto Show

Chevy Uplander TC, First Wheelchair-Accessible Taxi Van, Marks N.Y. Taxi Centennial

NEW YORK – GM’s global product development efforts will converge in one city as the new 2008 Cadillac STS; two Buick performance models and a refreshed Buick LaCrosse sedan; more powerful versions of the HUMMER H2 and H3; and a first-ever Saab E100 bioethanol concept come to the New York International Auto Show, April 6-15 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center .

The introductions continue GM’s ongoing product blitz that began the auto show season last November in Los Angeles . Here’s a preview of what GM will show in New York :

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GM Dealers Fight Toyota in the Trenches

DETROIT -- General Motors dealers are mad as hell and they're not going to take it anymore. A number of leaders at the dealership level, who believe GM's corporate ads aren't aggressive enough, have banded together to take Toyota head-on as GM continues to lose sales to its Japanese competition.

Local dealer radio ads, being distributed nationwide, take issue with Toyota positioning itself as an American car company. Further, a lengthy e-mail chain prompts dealers to challenge claims Toyota makes in its Tundra "See-saw" ads showing the truck hauling a load of cinderblocks up a steep ramp.

GM has been retooling, again, as its vehicle sales shrank 8.7% to 4.1 million units sold last year, per sales tracking firm Autodata, Woodcliff Lake, N.J. Toyota sales jumped 12.5% to 2.5 million vehicles during the same period.

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Volvo Joins Forces With Nation's Business Leaders to Take Chicago Violence Prevention Program Nationwide

Mrs. Laura Bush to Attend National CeaseFire Leadership Summit, University of Illinois at Chicago, March 29, 10 a.m. to Noon

CHICAGO -- More than 100 business leaders from throughout Illinois and the rest of the country will come together March 29 to strategize a solution to reduce violence in neighborhoods throughout the United States. The CeaseFire Leadership Summit, held at the University of Illinois at Chicago, brings together business leaders with the goal of identifying opportunities to form a national corporate council to roll out CeaseFire, a highly-successful violence prevention program that has dramatically reduced crime in Chicago, to other cities nationwide.

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In-Car Digital Radio News Service Developed by Audi

'Teletext for Radio' Provides Continuously Updated Information for Immediate Access

ZURICH, Switzerland -- SVOX, a global supplier of text-to-speech output solutions for the automotive and mobile industries, teamed with Audi and the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS to demonstrate during CeBIT a real-time transmission chain of the first live in-car reception of NewsService Journaline(R) service over Digital Radio DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) according to SVOX CEO Volker Jantzen.

NewsService Journaline is the basis for Audi's Personal News service now in final testing. This "teletext for radio" provides continuously updated information for immediate access. Drivers choose text news sorted by topics from a hierarchically organized menu. Jantzen reports that Audi considers to bring the service to market soon and make it available worldwide based on market acceptance.

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GMAC Insurance President Gary Kusumi Elected Chairman of the Board of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

ST. LOUIS -- GMAC Insurance Personal Lines announced today that its president and CEO Gary Kusumi has been tapped to be chairman of the board of directors for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Based in Arlington, Va., IIHS is a nonprofit research and communications organization funded by U.S. automotive insurers. The organization’s mission is to prevent motor vehicle crashes on the nation’s highways and reduce the injuries and property loss in the crashes that do occur. IIHS conducts crash testing at its state-of-the art facility in Ruckersville, Va., and releases those results with safety ratings by vehicle make and model. During his tenure as board chair, Mr. Kusumi will be working to further IIHS research on safer vehicles, driver behavior and roadway design.

“The IIHS provides a valuable public service to all Americans with its mission to support driver and passenger safety,” said Kusumi. “I’m proud to be associated with the organization, pleased to be asked to head its board of directors.”

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Toyota dealers move to put more vehicles on eBay

Toyota Dealers Nationwide Join the CompleteAuto Program; Contracts Signed With 11 Certified Toyota Dealers Results in Over 1,000 New Listings on eBay Motors!

ORLANDO, Fla. -- CompleteAuto, an RCAU Company, and eBay Motors Solution Provider, receives worldwide recognition as their vehicle listing solution is adopted by over 11 Toyota dealerships throughout the nation. Software contracts with all eleven of the highly reputable Toyota Dealers have been signed, and vehicle inventories are being uploaded daily. The described Toyota dealers will now manage every aspect of their online inventory through CompleteAuto’s comprehensive system.

Contracts from the aforementioned Toyota dealers rendered over 1,000 new vehicle listings on eBay Motors.com, via the CompleteAuto listing solution software. Positive market capture through the utilization of the CompleteAuto listing software is anticipated to cause additional Toyota retailers nationwide to join the software shift, resulting in heightened exposure within the online marketplace for the CompleteAuto Company.

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Remarks by President Bush After Demonstration of Alternative Fuel Vehicles

WASHINGTON-- The following is a transcript of remarks by President Bush after a demonstration of alternative fuel vehicles:

U.S. Postal Service Vehicle Maintenance Facility
Washington, D.C.

10:39 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Mr. Secretary, thank you. I want to thank you all very much.

Yesterday I talked with the chief executive officers of U.S. auto companies about what they're doing to help us meet the goal of reducing gasoline usage by 20 percent over 10 years. Today I've had the honor of visiting with private sector companies -- "Big Brown," FedEx, the Metro bus line, as well as the Postal Office folks, and DaimlerChrysler, as well, to talk about how we are using new technologies to convert truck fleets, bus fleets to vehicles that will be able to help meet the goal of reducing gasoline usage by 20 percent over 10 years.

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March 27, 2007

Weight rules limit Audi R10 in American Le Mans

INGOLSTADT, Germany - The LM P1 prototype was developed for the circuit at Le Mans, which is one of the world’s fastest tracks featuring long straights and quick corners. The average speed per lap at Le Mans is more than 142 mph, while the medium speed in St. Petersburg is expected to be less than 100 mph.

The roughly 330 lb. lighter Acura/Honda and Porsche LM P2 sports cars which, due to a change of rules, are allowed to compete in the American Le Mans Series with more engine power than at Le Mans, were already nearly equal to the Audi R10 TDI in the Sebring season opener on account of the regulations. On the slower street courses, such as St. Petersburg, their benefit from the 330 lb. weight advantage in the LM P2 class will even be greater, as it affects acceleration, cornering speeds, braking distances and fuel consumption considerably.

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SUV market mirrors rest of car buyers

New Luxury SUV Shoppers Want Comfort and Performance, While Non-Luxury SUV Considerers Look for Fuel Efficiency and Reliability

Brand Watch Study Reveals Brand Perceptions and Key Decision Factors among New SUV Shoppers

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kelley Blue Book Marketing Research's latest report series, Brand Watch, which reveals key decision factors among consumers in the purchase consideration process, shows the two most important factors of luxury SUV shoppers are driving comfort and driving performance, whereas the non-luxury SUV shopper considers fuel efficiency and durability/reliability the two most important factors in considering an SUV.

Falling in the middle of the top five consideration factors for both of these groups is safety. Among luxury SUV shoppers Lexus ranked No. 1 for driving comfort, their top consideration factor. Among non-luxury SUV considerers, Toyota ranked No. 1 for fuel efficiency, durability/reliability and safety, the segment's top three consideration factors.

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Posted by Frank at 9:33 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

Going to the Golf? Let Auto Europe Help

Visit www.auto-europe.co.uk for Help Planning Your Trip and 15% off Car Hire

LONDON, March 27 -- As golf fans gear up for a year of thrilling tournaments, there's only one place to be - right on course with the world's leading golf stars. Car hire specialist Auto Europe has developed an in-depth guide to the key competitions of the year all backed up with a generous 15% discount on car hire for anyone who wants to be there in person.

The guide, published online at www.auto-europe.co.uk, offers advice on how to travel independently to enjoy the tournaments first-hand with a car to share with friends and stow your clubs in. And, for any 'golf widows', it recommends must-see attractions in easy driving distance of the golf course.

15% car hire discount applies to cars booked for:

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DaimlerChrysler Expands Concept Plug-in Hybrid Program

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- In a display of commitment to the development of hybrid powertrain architecture and advanced batteries, DaimlerChrysler is expanding its concept plug-in hybrid program to include the all-new 2007 Dodge Sprinter.

Up to 20 Dodge Sprinter Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) will be placed in the United States between now and the first quarter of 2008 as part of a test-fleet program. Four of the vehicles, built on the previous- generation Dodge Sprinter, already are in operation with customers. DaimlerChrysler is the only auto manufacturer currently evaluating a variety of plug-in hybrid powertrain (diesel and gas) configurations in real-world, customer-operation service within the United States.

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MINI Offers SIRIUS Satellite Radio Factory Installed With Lifetime Subscription

MINI USA and SIRIUS Satellite Radio today announced that SIRIUS is available as a factory installed option with a lifetime subscription on the all-new 2007 MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S hardtops produced beginning this June. The lifetime subscription is transferable with the car from one owner to the next.

The factory-installed SIRIUS radio with a lifetime subscription will be available for an MSRP of $950. MINI USA will also offer SIRIUS, with a lifetime subscription, as part of its upgraded Audio Pack that also includes MINI's Hi-Fi sound system, for an MSRP of just $1,400.

"We are excited to offer our customers factory-installed SIRIUS radio with a lifetime subscription." said Rich Steinberg, head of MINI Product Strategy, "Now it makes the choice even easier for them to enjoy SIRIUS radio in their new MINI."

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Government Sued for Release of Secret Safety Data

Six Years After TREAD Act Passes, Data Still Unavailable

WASHINGTON -- Quality Control Systems Corp. today filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit in federal District Court to obtain secret data about deaths and injuries held by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

R.A. Whitfield, the company's director, said that the public needs access to the Early Warning Reports collected under the Transportation Recall Enhancement Accountability and Documentation (TREAD) Act to better understand why so many deaths and injuries related to tire failures in the Ford Explorer have continued long after the well-known tire recalls that affected the vehicle.

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Eddie Griffin wrecks rare $1.5 million Ferrari

IRWINDALE, California -- Eddie Griffin crashed a rare Ferrari Enzo worth $1.5 million into a concrete barrier while practicing at a racetrack Monday, destroying the car but escaping uninjured.

The comedian was practicing for a charity race to promote his upcoming film, "Redline," when he drove too fast around a curve at the Irwindale Speedway. Video footage showed the red sports car screeching before it ricocheted off the barrier with heavy damage to its front.

"Undercover Brother's good at karate and all the rest of that, but the brother can't drive," Griffin, referring to one his past films, said after the accident.

The film's publicist, Wendy Zocks, said Griffin was "doing OK."

Bentley to Launch Luxury Coupe at NYIAS

Bentley Motors will use the 2007 New York International Automobile Show for the North American debut of the Bentley Brooklands -- a stunning new model that marks the company’s return to the luxury coupe market.

Launches in NYBrooklands is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.

The Bentley Brooklands' exclusivity will be ensured with a lifetime production strictly limited to just 550 cars, with deliveries expected to start in the first half of 2008.

The new Bentley Brooklands possesses the most powerful V8 the company has ever produced – a 530bhp, twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre unit that also produces a prodigious 775 pound feet of torque.

Bentley Brooklands – the world’s most exclusive coupe

* The world’s most exclusive coupé: limited to just 550 cars

* The most powerful V8 engine Bentley has ever produced

* Inspired by the exploits of the ‘Bentley Boys’ at the famous Brooklands racetrack

* Powerful, muscular and rakish with classic British proportions

The Bentley Brooklands is a stunning new model that marks the company’s return to the luxury coupé market and reaffirms its reputation as creator of the world’s most exclusive coupés. It is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.

Bentley’s chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen describes the motivation behind the new coupé: “Bentley’s proud sporting pedigree, forged by the exploits of the immortal ‘Bentley Boys’ on the famous Brooklands racetrack in the 1920s, was the inspiration for our new coupé, capturing all the style, power and splendour of that era.” *

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Bentley Continental GT smashes world ice speed record

Oulu, Finland - A Bentley Continental GT, driven by four-times World Rally Champion Juha Kankkunen, smashed the world ice speed record last week, reaching an average speed of 199.86mph (321.65km/h) on frozen sea off the coast of Finland.

The near standard four-wheel-drive Continental GT - which is privately owned by the world rally star - eclipsed the previous ice speed record of 184.14mph (296.34km/h), set by a Bugatti EB110 Supersport at the same location.

Kankkunen's team endured temperatures of minus 30 degrees Celsius on a 10km section of frozen sea, 50km north of Oulu in western Finland. Accelerating hard over 70cm-thick ice, Juha took around 5km to hit his optimum speed before reaching the start of the marked kilometre over which his speed was measured. In spite of the Continental GT’s exceptional grip and traction he experienced wheel-spin even above 120 mph.

After a brief check-over, Juha turned the Continental GT around and drove the measured kilometre a second time to fulfill the judge's requirements, peaking at an incredible 205mph (330km/h).

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Porsche Board approves increase of stake in Volkswagen to become a European stock corporation

Response to the challenges of the international automobile market

Stuttgart -- At its extraordinary meeting held today, the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG authorized the Managing Board to increase the stake held in Volkswagen AG from the present 27.3 per cent to up to 31 per cent of the ordinary shares and thus to make a mandatory offer for Volkswagen.

The Managing Board intends to make use of this authorization in the short term. Porsche holds an option, which is exercisable at any time, to purchase up to 3.7 per cent of the ordinary shares of VW. The mandatory offer will be made to all VW shareholders after the 30 per cent voting rights threshold is exceeded.

Once this mandatory offer has been implemented, any further increases by Porsche of its stake in VW will not trigger a renewed obligation to make an offer to the remaining shareholders of the Wolfsburg-based car manufacturer. At present, it is unclear whether, when and on what terms such increases will take place.

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Carl Edwards, wins with No. 60 Fusion at Bristol Motor Speedway

NASCAR’s Car of Tomorrow made its competition debut in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series in Sunday’s Food City 500 in Bristol.

DEARBORN, Mich. – Fusion teammates Carl Edwards and Matt Kenseth finished first and second in Saturday’s NASCAR Busch Series race and on Sunday, the NASCAR Car of Tomorrow (COT) made its debut in Nextel Cup competition.

Edwards’ trademark celebratory back flip returned after he took the checkered flag in the Sharpie Mini 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Edwards and Kenseth battled until the very end with Edwards increasing his lead in the series to 197 points. “ To be able to hold off somebody as great as Matt Kenseth at a place like this means a lot to me,” said Edwards. “That made the win very special.”

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Land Rover's Freelander given top safety marks

Gaydon, Warwickshire – Land Rover’s all new Freelander 2 has been awarded a top five star rating in the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) for adult passenger safety. It also achieved four stars in the child protection category. In both the adult and child ratings it achieved the highest points of any vehicle in its category, making the Freelander 2 best in class for occupant safety.

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GM Charging Ahead with Volt

By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman

I knew it wouldn’t be long before the naysayers came out.

We’re not unplugging anything. We revealed the Chevrolet Volt, our electrically driven concept vehicle, to much praise at the Detroit show in January. We said we knew we had a tough challenge to see it through, but that we’re committed to the program.

We said that we plan to keep everyone up to speed on our progress and to discuss openly and transparently the technological, engineering and design hurdles we face. Just a couple of weeks ago we had more than 100 journalists and interested parties join our team, including outside battery experts, to learn more about what is happening behind our lab doors.

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Volkswagen's high temp fuel cell wins award

"INNOVATION OF REASON" 2007: AWARD FOR HIGH TEMPERATURE FUEL CELL FROM VOLKSWAGEN

Wolfsburg, Germany - The high temperature fuel cell from Volkswagen has been awarded a prize in the special category "Innovation of reason" by the largest German consumer magazine "Guter Rat". The jury of editing staff thereby afforded Volkswagen credit for their breakthrough in fuel cell technology. The prize was accepted last Friday by Professor Jürgen Leohold, Head of Volkswagen Group Research, at the Meilenwerk in Berlin.

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U.S. Charges David Stockman, Other Auto Parts Execs, With Securities Fraud

NEW YORK -- An indictment was unsealed today revealing charges against David A. Stockman, the former President and CEO of Collins and Aikman Corporation (C&A), and seven other former members of C&A's management, U.S. Attorney Michael J. Garcia for the Southern District of New York, and Ron Walker, Inspector in Charge of the New York Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), announced today.

The indictment unsealed in federal court in Manhattan charges Stockman with conspiracy, securities fraud, bank fraud, wire fraud, and obstruction of an agency proceeding, in connection with his participation, from December 2001 through May 2005, in a scheme to conceal from investors and lenders the truth about C&A's declining operating performance and financial results.

The indictment also charges former C&A Chief Financial Officer J. Michael Stepp; former Controller David R. Cosgrove; and former Director of Purchasing Paul C. Barnaba. Four felony informations, filed today and last week, charge other C&A executives with related crimes.

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Posted by Frank at 12:13 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

U.S. Congressman Pat Tiberi Honored for Votes on Key Manufacturing Issues

Receives Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence

Cited as a 'True supporter of the people who make things in America'

NEW ALBANY, Ohio -- Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc. today hosted a National Association of Manufacturers' (NAM) Congressional Dialogue and Award presentation honoring U.S. Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH-12).

During the Congressional Dialogue, which centered on key issues impacting the competitiveness of manufacturing that included prominent Ohio business men and women, Congressman Tiberi was honored with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence.

The Award was presented to Congressman Tiberi by the event's host, Mervin Dunn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Commercial Vehicle Group. It was presented in recognition of the Congressman's consistent support of American manufacturers and their employees.

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Posted by Frank at 12:12 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

ACDelco TSS Scholarships Encourage Future Technicians, Reward Current Ones

Today's vehicles are sophisticated, technologically advanced machinery with new features and systems being added all of the time. This - coupled with the ever-increasing number of car, truck, SUV, cross-over, and hybrid makes and models - means automotive technicians need to be better trained than ever to help keep vehicles on the road. And, employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to increase 9 - 17 percent through 2014.

ACDelco recognizes the demand for well-qualified automotive service personnel and is pleased to award scholarships to attract and retain workers to this profession. For the eighth consecutive year, ACDelco is awarding 10 nationwide scholarships exclusively to its TSS accounts through the ACDelco TSS Educational Scholarship Program. The scholarships are for technicians as well as the dependents of owners whose Independent Service Centers (ISCs) participate in ACDelco's Total Service Support (TSS) program.

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Toyota Brings Mobile Hybrid Experience to The 2007 Nashville Auto Show

Toyota's Mobile Experience Offers Look Inside Hybrid Synergy Drive

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Toyota is bringing its nationwide tour called "Highway to the Future: Mobile Hybrid Experience," to the 2007 Nashville International Auto Show April 6-8. The tour is designed to provide consumers with a firsthand opportunity to experience automotive hybrid technology.

The tour debuted Jan. 11, 2007 at the San Jose International Auto Show and is traveling to more than 150 events throughout the country during the next 18 months. Consumers will have an opportunity to test Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system and learn about hybrid technology through a number of interactive educational exhibits and test drives.

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Toyota Trucks Bring Adventure to The 2007 Nashville Auto Show

Tour Gives Attendees the Opportunity to Experience the Hills and Thrills of a Full-Line of Toyota 4X4 Vehicles

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- What happens when you build an amazing off-road course out of 1,000 tons of dirt and 20 tons of gravel, AND let auto show attendees test drive Toyota 4x4 vehicles for FREE? You get a lot of very excited people!

Back by popular demand, the Toyota Trucks Off Road On Site Adventure is visiting a dozen cities throughout the U.S., giving auto show attendees a chance to put a Toyota 4x4 Tundra, Tacoma or FJ Cruiser through its paces. It opens at the 2007 Nashville International Auto Show at the Nashville Convention Center on April 6.

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Collins & Aikman Reaches Settlements with DOJ and SEC

DOJ Will Not Prosecute Company and SEC Will Not Assess Fine

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- Collins & Aikman Corporation confirmed today that it had reached a non-prosecution agreement with the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York in connection with that office's investigation into matters investigated by the Company's Audit Committee and certain other conduct undertaken by executives and employees who were in place at the Company on or before May 1, 2005. The non-prosecution agreement removes the threat of an indictment of Collins & Aikman by the United States government for any such conduct.

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Posted by Frank at 12:04 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

Lexus getting a facelift

To Woo Wealthy, Lexus Attempts Image Makeover

It Seeks Luxury Cachet Like Gucci and Prada; $100,000 Sticker Price

For years, Toyota Motor Corp.'s Lexus division pitched its cars as the practical alternative to European luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes. And over time, the Lexus brand came to be known as kind of expensive, always respectable -- and a little boring.

"Lexus cars are made to be luxurious and forgettable," says Ryan Wilsey, a 29-year-old Boston resident who works in venture capital. Formerly an owner of a Porsche Boxster, Mr. Wilsey's dream cars are a BMW M3 coupe or a Ferrari.

Now, with Toyota's sales hitting new records, it craves a makeover for Lexus. It wants to become a brand associated with the biggest names in luxury. Imagine "Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci and Lexus all mentioned in the same breath," says Brian Bolain, a Lexus marketing manager.

To get there, Lexus, a company known for its ultra-conservative culture, is introducing a slew of new vehicles costing over $70,000 -- more than anything Lexus has previously sold and nearly twice the price of its best-selling RX sport-utility vehicle. It deployed a "super affluent team," a group that traveled the country asking the ultra-rich what they want. It is throwing lavish parties around the country and cozying up with brands like Vogue Magazine and Neiman Marcus stores.

The best-selling luxury car brand in the U.S., Lexus is hardly struggling. Sales grew a healthy 7% to 322,000 vehicles last year. The company has no plans to move away from lesser-priced vehicles like the $33,470 ES and the $30,255 IS sedan, which together generate more than a third of the brand's sales. But Lexus, which is sold only in certain foreign markets, still lags well behind the world-wide sales of the BMW and Mercedes brands, which together sold more than 179,000 cars last month alone.

March 26, 2007

Dodge's 'Avenge Your Commute' Something to Write About

-- Dodge 'Avenge Your Commute' invites consumers to participate in an essay contest for a chance to win a trip to Los Angeles and an all-new 2008 Dodge Avenger

-- Dodge partners with renowned life coach, Dr. Martha Beck, to offer tips on taking the stress out of the daily commute

-- Commuters who want to enter the 'new car' pool can register online at www.DodgeAvengeYourCommute.com

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- From the congested I-405 in Los Angeles to the overcrowded I-87 in New York, commuters nationwide are traveling great distances to make a living. Today, more than 10 million consumers drive more than 60 minutes each way to work and research shows that commuting can take a toll on a consumer's health(1).

In recognition of National Stress Awareness Day on Tuesday, April 17, Dodge is going to great lengths to help commuters minimize the stress caused by the daily grind. Dodge is inviting frustrated commuters to write an essay about why they believe they have the most stressful daily drive and are most deserving of a new car.

The writer of the winning essay will be flown out to Los Angeles -- the city with the worst commute -- to take part in a special Dodge "Avenge Your Commute" event on Monday, April 16, which will allow the winner to relieve his or her commuter stress by physically taking out his or her frustrations on a vehicle. And to make the winner's future daily commutes more pleasurable, he or she will also win an all-new 2008 Dodge Avenger.

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Ford, Lincoln Mercury Dealers Team Up to Fight Breast Cancer with 'Car Care for a Cause' in April

Ford Customer Service Division to donate $100,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Can an oil change fight cancer? Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD) is betting on it with a unique new Car Care for a Cause event during April's National Car Care Month that includes making a $100,000 donation to Susan G. Komen for the Cure on behalf of its Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealerships' service customers.

FCSD is joining forces with Ford Division's Warriors in Pink initiative, which raises funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure through the sale of unique, specially designed apparel, gear and other items that feature bold symbols that represent the Warrior spirit of taking charge, living out loud, harnessing power and standing together.

In addition to helping in the long-term fight against breast cancer, Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealership service customers can reap some immediate rewards, including no payments and interest-free financing for products and services, spa gift cards and free TripTunes car stereo connectors. Oil change reminder stickers with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure logo are just one way of increasing awareness and donations to the worthwhile cause.

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NY Auto Show Announces Dozens of Debuts

NEW YORK -- As the world's automakers prepare to wow the press with dozens of world and North American new vehicle introductions at the upcoming New York International Auto Show Media Preview (April 4th and 5th), the Show is offering a glimpse of what consumers can expect from this year's exhibition. The list, which includes vehicle introductions from nearly every major automaker, is the largest in show history.

"Situated in the media capital of the world, the NYIAS offers a great opportunity for car companies to show off their latest products to the press," said show chairman John LaSorsa. "We're thrilled that more than 20 manufacturers have chosen this year's Show for so many important new vehicle introductions."

Expect world and/or North American debuts from: Audi, Bentley, BMW, Callaway, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Infiniti, Kia, Lamborghini, Lexus, Maserati, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Saab, Subaru, Suzuki, Volkswagen, and Volvo.

Here's a sneak peek of a few world introductions:

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Chevrolet Cadillac of Twin Falls Awards Local Man 2007 Cobalt

Chevrolet Cadillac of Twin Falls in conjunction with Con Paulos Chevrolet, Kim Hansen Chevrolet and Sutton and Sons are proud to announce that the winner of the 2007 Chevy Cobalt Giveaway is one of Twin Falls' own. After a month and a half and over 2000 entry forms were turned in, KMVT pulled the winning ticket on March 14 from Chevrolet of Cadillac naming Robert Martin the lucky recipient of a stunning 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt.

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Pres. Bush and Auto CEOs Mingle at Mixed Fuel Demo

Remarks by President Bush and CEOs of Ford, General Motors and DaimlerChrysler at the Demonstration of Alternative Fuel Vehicles

WASHINGTON, March 26 -- The following is a transcript of remarks by President Bush and CEOs of Ford, General Motors and DaimlerChrysler at the Demonstration of Alternative Fuel Vehicles:

The South Lawn
11:11 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: I've just spent quite a while talking to our CEOs of American automobile companies. And I was interested in their take on my goal of reducing gasoline consumption by 20 percent over the next 10 years.

I found it very interesting that by 2012, 50 percent of the automobiles in America will be flex-fuel vehicles. That means that the American consumer will be able to either use gasoline or ethanol, depending upon, obviously, price and convenience. That's a major technological breakthrough for the country. If you want to reduce gasoline usage, like I believe we need to do so for national security reasons, as well as for environmental concerns, the consumer has got to be in a position to make a rational choice. And so I appreciate very much the fact that American automobile manufacturers recognize the reality of the world in which we live and are using new technologies to give the consumers different options.

Right now, most of our ethanol is made from corn. But the federal government is spending a lot of money to try to develop new technologies that will mean that ethanol could be made from wood chips or switch grass. Part of that request is embedded in a request to the Congress, and I would hope that Congress would move expeditiously on our plan to reduce gasoline usage by 20 percent over the next 10 years. It's in our national security interest that we do this, it's in economic security interest we do it, and all at the same time, it will help us be better stewards of the environment.

And now I'd like to ask these gentlemen to make a few comments.

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Automotive CEOs says Nation should invest in flexible fuel infrastructure

Joint Statement Attributable to Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom Lasorda, Ford Motor Company President and CEO Alan Mulally, and General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner Regarding the Meeting Between President George W. Bush and the CEOs of America's

WASHINGTON -- We appreciate the President meeting with us today on issues that are critical to reducing our nation's gasoline consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. We had an open and constructive discussion on the use of renewable and alternative fuels.

All three companies conveyed to the President their support for reducing gasoline consumption in the U.S. A significant portion of such reductions can come from the continued development and use of biofuels. We reiterated that each company stands ready to make half of its annual vehicle production E85 flexible fuel vehicles (FFV) or capable of running on biodiesel by 2012. To capitalize on these commitments, we emphasized with the President the need for increased incentives to produce and distribute biofuels.

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Ohio Northern University Team Wins Robot of the Year

Injection Molding Cell Using KUKA KR3 Robot Wins National Robotics Challenge

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. -- KUKA Robotics Corporation, a leading global manufacturer of industrial robots, today announced an injection molding cell using its KUKA KR3 robot won the Gold award in its division and was named the “2007 Robot of the Year” at the National Robotics Challenge held March 9-10, 2007 in Marion, OH. The cell was designed, built, programmed and entered into the competition by the robotics team at Ohio Northern University’s (ONU). The KUKA robot is one of seven robots that KUKA Robotics recently announced it had provided to ONU’s Robotics Technology Center of Excellence.

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Study: Buses are Most Fuel-Efficient U.S. Transportation Sector

WASHINGTON -- Motorcoaches are the most fuel-efficient transportation mode in the United States, according to a new study authored by Nathan Associates and released today by the American Bus Association Foundation.

The motorcoach industry provided 148.4 passenger miles per gallon of fuel in 2004, the study reported, more than double the second most fuel-efficient sector, intercity trains at 74.1 passenger MPG. Total transit achieved 55.8 passenger MPG, air carriers achieved 40.9 passenger MPG, and automobiles achieved 35.4 passenger MPG.

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Shooting hoops from the Goodyear Blimp

Everyone Loves a Long-Shot, but Goodyear Will Help the Longest Shot 'Get There'

Four Lucky Fans to Take Basketball Shots ... from the Goodyear Blimp

AKRON, Ohio -- For every long-shot who dreams of making the big shot in the big game, the biggest tire company in North America is offering lucky college students a chance to "Get There" by making the longest shot of all.

On Friday, March 30 -- just minutes from Atlanta's Georgia Dome, the site of this year's men's division I college basketball tournament -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company will offer four students representing each of the semifinalist schools (Florida, UCLA, Georgetown and Ohio State) the opportunity for a world record basketball shot.

The Goodyear "Get There" Blimp Shot Contest involves an attempt at scoring from far beyond the usual three-point arc. In fact, the attempt will be much longer than even a 94-foot full-court shot.

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SIEC Announces 'Auto Shanghai 2007' Advance Tickets on Now Sale

SHANGHAI, China -- Shanghai International Exhibition Co., Ltd. (SIEC) announces that the 12th International Automobile & Manufacturing Technology Exhibition ("Auto Shanghai 2007"), which has drawn wide attention from the public, will be held at the Shanghai New International Exhibition Centre from April 22nd to 28th, 2007.

Themed "Technology and Nature in Harmony," Auto Shanghai 2007 will arouse the passions and devotion of exhibitors, visitors and press alike, with a massive exhibition area of over 140,000 square meters.

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Posted by Frank at 2:10 PM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

Novelis Marks Start-Up of Automotive Center With Order for DaimlerChrysler

ATLANTA -- Novelis Inc. today marked the start-up of a new laser-cutting center for aluminum automotive sheet at its rolling mill in Sierre, Switzerland, with the announcement that the center's first order will be for DaimlerChrysler's Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan.

Laser-cut, shaped aluminum sheets for the production of the front fender on the all-new C-Class are being supplied from Sierre to DaimlerChrysler's Tier One supplier's stamping plant at East London in South Africa. Novelis also supplies sheet, in coil form, for the C-Class models produced at the automaker's Sindelfingen, Bremen and Hamburg plants in Germany.

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Nissan to Introduce Tiida in Europe

- Tiida Will be Launched in Selected Key Markets Across Europe

- On Sale From June 2007

- Four and Five Door Models, Three Engines (Two Petrol, One Diesel)

TRAPPES, France, March -- Nissan Europe announced today that it will introduce the Tiida model to Europe from June 2007. The Tiida marks the latest addition to Nissan's current model line-up following the recent launch of its latest C-segment, cross-over vehicle, the QASHQAI.

As part of the Tiida launch strategy, Nissan carefully studied the individual European markets to identify the countries where there was a concentration of loyal customers of Almera and Primera who would consider purchasing a similar model in the future.

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Hyundai to Unveil Concept Genesis Premium Sports Sedan

Rear-Wheel Drive and V-8 Engine Promise World Class Dynamics and Refinement

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai will present the world debut of Concept Genesis during a press conference at the New York International Auto Show on April 4. The concept car heralds the future architecture and design of a rear-wheel drive premium sports sedan scheduled to grace the Hyundai lineup in 2008.

"Concept Genesis extends our product range into new territories from a performance, design and packaging perspective," said Steve Wilhite, chief operating officer, Hyundai Motor America. "When it arrives in 2008 it will catapult Hyundai into competition against some potent rivals, and Genesis is up for the challenge."

Concept Genesis rides on a prototype of Hyundai's all-new rear-wheel drive platform, signaling the brand's desire to broaden its appeal to discerning driving enthusiasts. Concept Genesis is powered by Hyundai's newly developed Tau DOHC 32-valve V-8 powertrain. Concept Genesis marks the beginning of premium performance for the Hyundai brand.

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MapQuest Sends Maps and Directions to Cell Phones

Upgraded Free “Send to Cell” Service Leverages the MapQuest Desktop Experience

ORLANDO, Fla. -- MapQuest today announced a series of upgrades to its “Send to Cell” service that will let users create detailed driving directions and maps at their desktop and send them to any Web-enabled cell phone for free.1 The service is available at http://www.mapquest.com on several major wireless carriers.

With the Send to Cell service, users can search for places and create maps and directions on their home or office desktop, and send that information to their cell phones by clicking on the “Send to Cell” link conveniently found through the MapQuest.com site. Then, while on the road, they can quickly access the information on their mobile device via a simple text link, and be directed to their turn by turn directions and detailed maps, all “right-sized” for their cell phones’ Web browser.

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Posted by Frank at 9:37 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

Driving Cost Per Mile Calculated at 52.2 Cents for 2007

AAA Calculates Cost of Car Ownership and Operation for 100 Miles of Driving is $52.20

ORLANDO, Fla -- Consumers feeling pinched by increases in day-to-day living expenses can take some comfort in AAA’s annual study of driving costs released today. According to the nation’s largest organization for motorists, the cost of owning and operating a new vehicle in 2007 remains basically unchanged from a year ago at 52.2 cents per mile, or $7,823 per year, when driving 15,000 miles annually.

“While costs for some items such as insurance and financing increased from the start of 2006, a lower cost for fuel at the end of last year offset these expenses resulting in no net increase in the average driving expense for 2007,” said John Nielsen, director of AAA’s Approved Auto Repair network.

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Kyle Busch Scores 600th Win for Chevrolet in NASCAR

Bowtie Brand Continues Status as Winningest Manufacturer in NASCAR

Victory in Food City 500 Marks First Win for Impala SS in Return to Competition; Win by No. 5 CARQUET/Kellogg's Impala SS is 200th NASCAR Victory for Rick Hendrick as a Car Owner in Cup, Busch, and Truck Combined

Bristol, TN - Sunday's victory for Kyle Busch, No. 5 CARQUEST/Kellogg's Impala SS, at Bristol Motor Speedway marks the 600th win for Chevrolet in NASCAR Nextel Cup Competition - a historical landmark that continues the Bowtie Brand as the most successful manufacturer in NASCAR history.

In addition to claiming the unequaled 600th win for Chevy, Busch's winning effort in the Food City 500 marks victory number one, 61 total, for Impala SS making its return to NASCAR competition today at Bristol. When the Impala SS brand competed in NASCAR from 1959 to 1964, the legendary nameplate scored 60 wins, including the first-ever event in which it competed. On February 20, 1959, Bob Welborn took the victory at Daytona.

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Big block corvettes featured at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction

Palm Beach, Fla. – Corvette enthusiasts and collectors worldwide will descend on South Florida to select from an impressive array of 1967 Big Block Corvettes that will cross the auction block at No Reserve during the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event from March 28 -April 1, 2007, in Palm Beach, Fla.

The fifth annual Palm Beach event will feature over 600 of the world’s most exclusive collector automobiles, approximately 100 lifestyle vendors and 17 hours of coverage on SPEED.

The 11-car group of 1967 Big Blocks includes a variety of options and horsepower. Five of the Corvettes feature the desirable 427cid/435 horsepower V8 engine combination, with a 4-speed manual transmission.

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Porsche RS Spyder debuts on Florida street circuit

American Le Mans Series, round 2 in St. Petersburg, USA

Stuttgart -- After the twelve-hour classic in Sebring, which opened the new American Le Mans Series season, the second round of 2007 also takes place in the US state of Florida. On 31 March 2007, the new downtown race circuit of St. Petersburg on the Gulf of Mexico hosts the racing series with the world's fastest sportscars for the first time, together with the equally popular US-formula series, the Indy Racing League.

“A race through city streets is always a very special event. You have to drive with utmost precision and without making a single mistake,“ said Timo Bernhard (Germany) in anticipation of the premiere at Tampa Bay - the first of four such street races this season. “Mostly, the tracks are really narrow and they usually don't have proper runoff areas. You have to concentrate totally from start to finish. If you don't, you end up against the concrete barriers.“

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Ford debuts Fusion Car of Tomorrow at Bristol Motor Speedway

* The COT was designed from the ground up to be safer, more competitive and more cost-effective for NASCAR teams.

* Bristol is the first of 16 scheduled appearances for the COT in the 2007 season.

DEARBORN, Mich. – For nearly all of the 21st century, auto manufacturers – including Ford – racing engineers, and NASCAR have worked together to develop a new, safer race car.

The end result, now known as the Car of Tomorrow (COT), made its NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series debut this past weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway. Ford will keep the Fusion brand name on its entry.

“It’s been a pretty lengthy process and started back in the 2000-01 year and really accelerated around March 2005; that’s when the Car of Tomorrow project really started accelerating and we got involved pretty in depth,” said Ben Leslie, NASCAR Field Manager for Ford Racing Technology.

The COT is very similar to the current NASCAR race car; but it is 2.5 inches taller, 2.5 inches wider and the driver sits four inches closer to the center. Most noticeably, it has an adjustable splitter across the bottom front of the car, and an adjustable wing replaces the fixed spoiler on the back deck lid.

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J.D. Powers Predicts Pickup Truck Sales Will Sizzle

THE PICKUP TRUCK MARKET WILL sizzle this year, thanks to Chevy's Silverado and Toyota's Tundra, both relaunched within the last few months. Toyota's Tundra, on sale for just shy of two months, is living up to the company's predictions that it would keep current owners and win converts, while consumer loyalty for domestic brands is still strong.

According to J.D. Power and Associates' PIN (Power Information Network) study for the first two months of the year, 53% of owners of late-model Tundras shopping for a new pickup bought the new Tundra, over twice the return rate of its predecessor.

Tundra is also luring buyers from other brands, per the consultancy--although consumers are paying more on average for the Tundra than for competitors. The national average transaction price for the truck in the first two months was $33,182, per JD Power--about $900 more than Ford's F-150, $1,450 more than Chevy Silverado, $7,618 more than Dodge's Ram pickup, and $5,518 more than Nissan's Titan. The consultancy predicts that Tundra's sales this year will be in the neighborhood of 210,000--nearly double last year's sales.

Still, that's a far cry from the domestics, whose yearly truck sales last year were more than 1.64 million vehicles. Sales data from the PIN study suggests that Ford and GM owners are still highly loyal, with Silverado and F-150 loyalty number up 4% from January to February this year, per the consultancy. Owner loyalty for Chrysler Group's Dodge Ram is flat.

Honda Starts Ad Engines As Racing Season Gets Underway

HONDA HAS BEGUN A NATIONAL integrated ad push that targets racing enthusiasts as well as the general market and coincides with the start of the Indy Racing League (IRL) season in Miami last weekend. The campaign, to promote Honda's tamer consumer vehicles, exploits Honda's status--for the second year running--as sole engine supplier for the IndyCar series.

The effort, via long-time agency of record RPA, Santa Monica, Calif., features a 30-second TV spot, "Starting Up." It shows Honda race cars, motorcycles, and even boat engines as well as Honda consumer vehicles of all stripes gearing up for ignition, with the click of lights going on, magnetos activated, all leading up to the moment of ignition. Tag: "The Power of Dreams."

The ad broke on ESPN SportsCenter's broadcast of the Homestead-Miami Speedway Indy race on Saturday, and a heavier presence is planned for the Indianapolis 500 period in May, per the agency. The spot will run on broadcasts of all 17 IRL races and on cable.

Mazda all over the American racing world

Automaker has busy week on and off the track

IRVINE, Calif. - Sebring isn’t just a race. It’s an endurance racing classic, backed up by over half a century of tradition. Support is provided by a great portfolio of sprint races for sports car and open wheel racers. There were more Mazda powered cars in more races than any other brand at Sebring this past week. A quick recap of the week:

In the feature event, the 55 th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, B-K Motorsports debuted an all new turbocharged Mazda MZR-R engine that didn’t even exist on paper just a few months ago. The team used the race as the ultimate test session – one with 175,000 spectators and ten hours of live TV. The team encountered a number of small, relatively minor problems related to the throttle linkage, and a failed external oil-line, resulting in three lengthy behind the wall pit stops. The car and the team kept going all race long in spite of the delays. After twelve hours the international driving team of American Jamie Bach, Englishman Ben Devlin, and Brazilian Raphael Matos completed 224 laps in their brand new Lola B07/46 Mazda MZR-R.

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Nissan Announces Successful Voluntary Transition Program

Plan Will Increase Manufacturing Efficiency

SMYRNA, TENN. – Nissan North America, Inc. today announced the results of its Voluntary Transition Program, which will help increase the efficiency of the automaker’s vehicle and powertrain manufacturing operations in Smyrna and Decherd, Tenn.

On Feb. 20, hourly production and maintenance technicians at the two plants were offered the opportunity to separate from the company with a lump sum payment and, for those who qualified, retirement benefits.
Nissan announced today that 681 employees at Smyrna and 94 employees at Decherd decided to take advantage of the program. Retirements accounted for 303 of the combined number.

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U.S. gas prices rise to $2.61 a gallon

NEW YORK - U.S. average retail gasoline prices rose over the past two weeks, though at a slower pace than seen last month, reflecting strong demand and production shortfalls at refineries, according to an industry analyst.

The national average for self-serve regular unleaded gas was nearly $2.61 a gallon on March 23, up about 5.6 cents per gallon in the past two weeks, according to the nationwide Lundberg survey of about 7,000 gas stations.

The price of filling up is 11 cents a gallon higher than it was last year, but still 42 cents below the record high reached on August 11 last year, analyst Trilby Lundberg said.

"Drive to Win" a 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt SS with Kurt Johnson

GRAND BLANC, MICH. — NHRA Pro Stock driver Kurt Johnson knows what it is like to win. Johnson, driver of the ACDelco-sponsored Chevrolet Cobalt, holds the longest active streak in Pro Stock by winning at least one race for 12 consecutive seasons, an honor he earned in 2006. And, he finished fifth in the 2006 overall NHRA Pro Stock championship standings, the 14th consecutive year he has placed in the top 10.

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Bush to discuss flex-fuel vehicles with U.S. auto executives

WASHINGTON -- U.S. automakers plan to show President Bush their latest advances in alternative fuel vehicles on Monday, pressing the case that ethanol and biodiesel blends can help reduce the nation's reliance on foreign oil.

Bush is expected to meet with General Motors Corp. Chairman and Chief Executive Rick Wagoner, Ford Motor Co. CEO Alan Mulally and DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda.

The White House gathering will focus on Bush's support for flexible-fuel vehicles, which are capable of using gasoline and ethanol blends, and the administration's plan to cut gas consumption by 20 percent in 10 years.

The three auto leaders have already pledged to double their production of flexible fuel vehicles to about 2 million a year by 2010.

Automakers also will stress that they could make half of their cars and trucks capable of running on alternative fuels by 2012 if there's enough availability and distribution of E85, an ethanol blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.

Toyota not among carmakers invited to White House

WASHINGTON - Toyota Motor Corp. is creating U.S. jobs, making friends in Washington and leading in fuel-saving technology, yet will not be at the table when President George W. Bush meets major automakers to talk energy policy on Monday.

Chief executives of General Motors Corp. (GM.N: Quote, Profile , Research), Ford Motor Co. (F.N: Quote, Profile , Research) and Chrysler Group (DCX.N: Quote, Profile , Research) will roll into the White House to discuss Bush's proposal to cut fuel consumption by 20 percent over 10 years by encouraging gasoline alternatives and imposing tougher mileage standards.

The meeting is central to Bush's push to generate support for his energy proposals, which for autos have received a mixed reception from the industry and congressional lawmakers.

UAW is becoming part of the solution

Union, carmakers are industry allies

Some people say the UAW is to blame for Detroit's problems, that the greedy labor union bullied General Motors, Ford Motor and Chrysler into paying outsized wages, pensions and health care benefits to hourly workers and retirees.

Others say the shrunken union is irrelevant in a 21st-Century global economy.

Neither is correct.

Indeed, as UAW representatives converge on Detroit this week for the first ritual gathering of nationwide contract bargaining, the union and its president, Ron Gettelfinger, face a unique make-or-break opportunity in the coming months:

• They can save what's left of the traditional Big Three (and save their own union in the process).

• Or they can relegate Detroit to the scrap heap of postindustrial ghost towns.

Posted by Frank at 12:34 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

GM trails in bidding for Chrysler

General Motors' offer to acquire the Chrysler group has moved to the back burner. Several weeks ago the automaker offered to buy the Chrysler group. But DaimlerChrysler deems GM's bid to be too low, say two sources familiar with the negotiations. According to published reports, the lead bidders appear to be two private equity funds and Canadian supplier Magna International Inc.

IndyCar Series Homestead Race Report

Homestead-Miami Speedway (1.5-mile oval) Homestead, FL
2006 Winner: Dan Wheldon (Honda) 167.730 mph average
Weather: Clear, mild, windy, 74 degrees F (night race)

Wheldon Dominates IndyCar Series Opener in Miami

March 24 -- For the third consecutive time, Dan Wheldon has won the IndyCar Series season opener at Homestead-Miami Speedway, leading teammate Scott Dixon home by more than six seconds in a dominating performance for both the 2005 series champion and the entire Target Chip Ganassi Racing organization. Defending series champion Sam Hornish Jr. rounded out the top three finishers, but was more than 17 seconds behind at the checker.

Continue reading "IndyCar Series Homestead Race Report"

March 25, 2007

Emile Hirsch Takes the Lead in “Speed Racer”

See a Video Interview with Emile Hirsch Talking About Being Cast in the Title Role of “Speed Racer"

Emile Hirsch has been set to star in the title role of Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Village Roadshow Pictures’ new actioner “Speed Racer,” under the direction of the Wachowski brothers. The announcement was made today by Jeff Robinov, President of Production, Warner Bros. Pictures.

Robinov stated, “Emile Hirsch is one of today’s fastest-rising young stars, which makes him the perfect choice to take the wheel of Speed’s Mach 5. He continues to showcase his talents in a variety of challenging roles and we are thrilled to have him in the title role of ‘Speed Racer.’”

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DaimlerChrysler Named One of 50 Best Companies for Diversity

DiversityInc names DaimlerChrysler to its 'Top 50' list -- The company in top 10 for supplier diversity

AUBURN HILLS -- DiversityInc named DaimlerChrysler to its 2007 "Top 50" list for diversity this week.

The annual national listing, now in its seventh year, is based on four key areas: CEO Commitment, Human Capital, Corporate Communications and Supplier Diversity.

"DaimlerChrysler is much different from the average corporation; it is a true champion of diversity," said Luke Visconti, partner and co-founder of DiversityInc.

DaimlerChrysler values diversity and champions diversity issues in the U.S. and around the world. Nearly 30 percent of DaimlerChrysler's workforce is made up of ethnic minorities, while women make up 21 percent of the company's workforce.

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Porsche moves to keep VW in German hands

FRANKFURT, Germany - Prestige automaker Porsche will increase its stake in Volkswagen AG, maker of the Beetle, Golf and Jetta, in a widely expected move aimed at keeping the company firmly in German hands.

A spokesman for Porsche said the company did not plan to acquire Volkswagen, Europe's biggest car maker, which is partly owned by the state of Lower Saxony and is looked to as both an industrial powerhouse and a major provider of jobs.

Stuttgart-based Porsche AG, which makes upscale and expensive sports cars like the 911 and Boxster, said Saturday it would increase its stake in Volkswagen from 27.3 percent to 31 percent in the next week, a move that legally obliges it to make a mandatory takeover offer for the company.

Michael Baumann, a Porsche spokesman, said the company will only offer the legal minimum $134.50 per Volkswagen share, lower than the $156.86 VW closed at in Frankfurt trading on Friday.

"We do not expect many Volkswagen shareholders to offer us their shares," Baumann told The Associated Press. "Which means simply that we intend to go to 31 percent. We do not by any means intend to take over."

DaimlerChrysler shares up amid talk of bid

DETROIT - Shares of DaimlerChrysler AG pushed to a new 52-week high on Friday as speculation swirled that a Canadian auto supplier and a private equity partner would bid for Chrysler, the German company’s ailing U.S. arm.

KeyBanc Capital Markets analyst Brett Hoselton said in a note to investors that his sources, whom he did not identify or describe, tell him that Canadian auto supplier Magna International Inc. and a private equity partner have written a joint letter offering to buy Chrysler for $4.6 billion to $4.7 billion.

The talk comes as investors, markets, employees and suppliers have been itching to find out who will buy Chrysler. There have been constant rumors that a suitor will soon make a multibillion-dollar bid.

Nissan will buy out 12.5% of Tennessee work force

Nissan North America's effort to pare its work force at two key Tennessee plants will result in 775 voluntary buyouts, the automaker said this morning. Nissan had predicted that about 300 of its 6,200 eligible vehicle assembly and engine workers would take its buyout offer. The final count means Nissan will part with 12.5 percent of the combined work forces at Smyrna and Decherd, Tenn.

Buick Open Announces A Record Donation To Southeastern Michigan Charities

GRAND BLANC, Mich. — The Buick Open, Michigan's only PGA Tour event, has donated a record $832,000 to Southeastern Michigan charities from proceeds raised through the 2006 tournament. Held annually at Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club here, the Buick Open has raised $8.8 million dollars for area charities since 1982.

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Batmobile creator gets a street in his name

His eye-popping autos have been traffic stoppers for more than 60 years.

On Friday, though, it was car customizer George Barris himself who was causing the huge traffic jam at the intersection of Riverside Drive and Riverton Avenue in North Hollywood.

There was Barris, perched high above the street in a city cherry picker, being serenaded by a Marilyn Monroe look-alike as hundreds of admirers clustered around examples of his automotive artistry looked on.

Over to the side was the Munsters Koach, built from three Model T bodies for "The Munsters" television series. Parked a few yards away was the General Lee, the 1969 Dodge Charger on the TV show "The Dukes of Hazzard." Next to it was the Batmobile from the 1960s "Batman" series. On a nearby grassy area was the DeLorean Time Machine from the film "Back to the Future."

With a flourish, Barris, who is in his mid-80s, pulled away a piece of cloth to reveal a sign high up on a street lamp proclaiming the half-block stretch of Riverton next to his customizing shop "George Barris Place."

March 23, 2007

Chevrolet Aims for 600th NASCAR Cup Series Win

The Debut of the Chevy Impala SS This Weekend Marks Opportunity for Bowtie Brand to Score 600th Victory and 61st Impala Win

DETROIT - Chevrolet, the most successful nameplate in NASCAR, will have the opportunity to achieve several historic milestones at Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend. With Jimmie Johnson's back-to-back wins in Las Vegas and Atlanta, Chevrolet has 599 NASCAR Cup wins as Team Chevy heads to Bristol, Tenn. where the Impala nameplate will make its return to NASCAR racing. If a Chevy driver wins in Bristol this weekend, it would be the 600th all-time victory for Chevrolet and the 61st win for Impala.

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2007 Volkswagen Beetle receives 'best fleet value' award

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc announced today that the 2007 New Beetle was awarded “Best Fleet Value in America” by Vincentric, a privately held automotive analysis and data compilation firm. The New Beetle was honored in the passenger car, subcompact, over $17,000 category. The annual award acknowledges automakers for producing vehicles having the lowest fleet lifecycle costs in different ownership/mileage scenarios.

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NHTSA Chief to Keynote NY Auto Show's Safety Symposium

NHTSA Administrator Nicole Nason will be the keynote speaker at the Auto Show's seventeenth annual World Traffic Safety Symposium on Friday, April 13th. The program will include a panel discussion on “Technology and Traffic Safety” featuring innovations from automakers and suppliers.

Recipients of the 2007 Traffic Safety Achievement—a program that recognizes excellence in traffic safety among automakers, suppliers, media, and community service groups—will also be presented at the Symposium.

Posted by Frank at 10:27 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

Taxi Innovation at the Auto Show

Design Trust for Public Space exhibit to shine spotlight on NYC icon

NEW YORK -- In honor of the 100th anniversary of the modern-day taxi in New York City, the 2007 New York International Automobile Show (NYIAS) will host the Design Trust for Public Space's exhibit of innovative taxi prototypes that could usher in a brighter future of the iconic yellow cab.

"The New York Auto Show always strives to create unique and memorable experiences for visitors," said Mark Schienberg, President, Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association. "We're pleased to host this groundbreaking taxi exhibit with the Design Trust, as it promises to be a distinctly New York encounter for showgoers, and an opportunity to educate them about innovations to come."

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California Goodyear Highway Hero Saves Lives in Arizona

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Goodyear's 24th North America Highway Hero Edward A. Regener, of Perris, Calif., escaped one fire and jumped into another to save the lives of two men trapped in their burning car.

The FedEx Freight truck driver scrambled from the passenger door of his damaged cab; a burning pickup truck was lodged against his driver's door, blocking an easy exit. To make matters worse, his twin trailers contained hazardous materials that would contribute to the spread of a toxic fire.

Incredibly, thanks to Regener and some other motorists, all lives were saved.

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Earnhardt is a Sharpie at MINI 300

Sharpie Introduces No. 8 Marker, New Sharpie Co-Sponsored Paint Scheme, Dale Jr Billboard, and Autograph Drive for Charity

BRISTOL, Tenn.-- One of NASCAR's most popular drivers, Dale Earnhardt Jr, is making a bold statement on and off the track as he prepares for the Sharpie(R) MINI 300 NASCAR Busch Series race this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS).

The new Sharpie/Dale Earnhardt, Inc. relationship will officially kick off Saturday when Dale Jr steps behind the wheel of the new DEI No. 8 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, co-sponsored by Sharpie and Budweiser.

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Fastest Way to the 33rd Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach

Free Race Passes for April 13 Available at www.verizon.com/freefriday

LONG BEACH -- Verizon, provider of the fastest Internet connections in Southern California through its all-fiber- optic network direct to customers' homes, is inviting everyone to move into the fast lane with free passes to the 33rd Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach next month.

The passes, which are good for general admission on April 13, can be downloaded and printed at www.verizon.com/freefriday. The Grand Prix continues through April 15.

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Volvo S80 Named 2007 AutoMundo Magazine Car of the Year

IRVINE, Calif. -- AutoMundo, the nation's premier Spanish-language automotive enthusiast publication, today named the all-new Volvo S80 as its 2007 Car of the Year. The prestigious accolade which appears in the magazine's April issue, follows the S80's recent debut in the U.S. marketplace and echoes what others are saying about Volvo's first V8-powered luxury sedan.

The S80 was selected for its revolutionary design, dynamic and youthful driving attributes and Volvo's legendary safety systems. "The new 2007 Volvo S80 was really the obvious choice," commented Jorge Koechlin, President and Editor-in-Chief of AutoMundo. "As the company's first V8-powered car, it really breaks the mold of what AutoMundo has come to expect of Volvo's cars."

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2007 Saleen S281 and the New 2007 PJ/Saleen Special Edition

Sibling Rivalry at Its Finest

COSTA MESA -- Lead Auto Expert Mark Perleberg of NADAguides.com -- a leading vehicle pricing and information website -- recently test drove the 2007 Saleen S281 and the 2007 PJ/Saleen Special Edition (http://www.saleen.com/index.html) in a week-long, side-by-side and back-to-back comparison. He weighs in on both cars' features and handling.

"Since 1984, Steve Saleen has been remanufacturing new stock Ford Mustangs with a flare that only a businessman with a racing background could pull off," said Perleberg. "Saleen has emerged as a leader in squeezing the most out of new stock Ford Mustang GTs, giving them near Super Car qualities at a relatively low price."

Perleberg says the 2007 S281 features more of what all great performance cars need -- more horsepower! Up an additional 30HP from 2006, the S281 now musters up 465 ponies, and according to Perleberg, acceleration that keeps the car's passengers pinned to the back of their seats when the supercharger kicks in.

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Downtown Hoedown Returns to Hart Plaza

Chrysler Jeep Superstores as Title Sponsor

World's Largest Free Country Concert May 18-20, 2007 in Downtown Detroit Heats Up The Summer With Music and Family Fun

25th Anniversary Event Includes Family Attractions, Mechanical Bull and Festival Favorites

DETROIT -- The world's largest free Country Music Concert has been secured for the weekend of May 18-20, 2007 in the heart of Downtown Detroit with the title sponsorship announcement today (Thursday) by the Chrysler Jeep Superstores.

The announcement was made by Jim Schebil, president, Chrysler Jeep Superstores Advertising Association of Southeastern Michigan.

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Geico wants you to act like a slimy lizard

Call GEICO’s Fraud Hotline and Help Crack Down on Phony Claims

WASHINGTON -- Even though insurance professionals like GEICO’s Special Investigations Unit already save the insurance buying public millions and millions of dollars each year by preventing and exposing false claims, GEICO is stepping up the battle against insurance fraud by activating a new national fraud hotline.

The GEICO Fraud Hotline number is 1-800-824-5404 ext. 3313 and it is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Common types of insurance fraud are staged accidents, exaggerated injuries, inflated medical bills, and phantom medical treatments. “If any customer feels they or someone they know has been a victim of these illegal activities, GEICO encourages them to call the GEICO Fraud Hotline and report their suspicions,” said Seth Ingall, vice president of GEICO’s claims division.

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Posted by Frank at 1:59 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

GM Pledges to Reduce CO2 Emissions by 40%

Automaker sets target with U.S. EPA to reduce North American facility emissions by 2010

DETROIT – Today, General Motors announced its goal to reduce CO2 emissions from its North American manufacturing facilities by 40 percent by 2010, based on 2000 levels. GM is setting this target as part of its voluntary partnership in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Climate Leaders program. This reduction would equal 4.5 million metric tons and equate to annual emissions from the power consumed by 432,692 U.S. households.

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Mazda Announces Senior Management Changes

Eric Johnston Appointed Vice President Sales and Field Operations

IRVINE, Calif. -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced that its senior vice president of Sales and Marketing, Brian Colianni, will return to Ford Motor Company, effective April 1, after three years with MNAO. Eric Johnston, formerly MNAO's Vice President of Customer Service and Parts Operations, has been named Vice President of Sales and Field Operations, reporting to Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO of MNAO.

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Concept Cars at the New York Auto Show

What will we be driving in 2010?

NEW YORK -- Bold design, technological innovation, ultra-luxury interiors and future fuels are the latest concept car trends that will be arriving at the 2007 New York International Automobile Show. The Show opens to the public on Friday, April 6th through April 15th at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan.

Concept cars are often radical in engine or design. Some use non- traditional, exotic, or expensive materials, ranging from paper to carbon fiber to refined alloys, while others have developed engines or new propulsion systems that blend different powertrains to create cars that are powerful but efficient.

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Technology Meets Fashion During Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

LOS ANGELES -- On Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 6:00 pm, Los Angeles-based fashion design house Thrive will show their Fall/Winter 2007 collection during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios.

Company Biography -- After making their mark in the technology industry, co-founders Rob Meadows and Ali Shahriyari followed their passion for art and culture to create the Los Angeles based fashion brand. By drawing on their diverse experiences and influences they are establishing a company, which has a non- traditional approach to fashion.

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Polk Debuts Commercial Vehicle Loyalty Analysis

Industry exclusive offering measures customer loyalty and identifies conquest opportunities

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- R. L. Polk & Co. unveiled its Commercial Vehicle Loyalty Analysis solution today at the Mid America Trucking Show (MATS). This industry-first product addresses the market need for customer metrics enabling commercial truck and engine manufacturers to better understand the loyalty of their customer base, analyze growth opportunities and take pre-emptive action against potential defectors.

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Posted by Frank at 1:49 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

GM Lightens Load At Dealerships, Helps Redesign Them

THIS MONTH, TWO GENERAL MOTORS dealerships--one in Stuart, Fla., utterly destroyed by Hurricanes Francis and Jeanne in 2004, the other, in Kennesaw, Ga.--have a new look. The showrooms, both part of Carl Black Automotive Group, sell Pontiac, GMC and Buick vehicles. They also represent the fruition and retail execution of a GM distribution and product strategy launched in 2002 to bundle the three GM brands together in the same channel.

The tactic aligns with General Motors' weight-loss plan of trimming redundant models, slimming divisional portfolios, and making products within each of GM's eight brands reflect each brand's "personality." Buick, for which General Motors' has crafted a brand identity around "classic, timeless, and exquisite levels of craftsmanship," has been quietly trimming the fat for the past two years: Gone are LeSabre and Park Avenue, which have been replaced with the Lucerne; likewise the Century and Regal which were replaced by the LaCrosse. The last Buick Rendevous rolled off the line in December, and the division will sell its last Rainier SUV and Terraza minivan this summer. Buick next week will use Cipriani's 42nd St. New York bar as a pad to launch its newest vehicle.

Honda owners to share in odometer settlement

Six million owners are being notified about a settlement over odometer calibration.

The shady used-car salesman's trick is to roll back the odometer to make a car appear newer. Honda Motor Co.'s odometers moved faster for the opposite effect.

How's that?

"I never noticed anything was amiss," said Agoura Hills resident Dick Hansen, who bought a 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid last year and thought he had put 18,000 miles on it — but may have driven only 17,600.

Hansen, a sound mixer for a TV production company, recently received a letter about a class-action lawsuit settlement agreement that might put some money in his pocket.

Notices began going out to 6 million Honda and Acura drivers after the agreement was reached four months ago, but some are only now landing in mailboxes.

Many recipients, like Hansen, had no idea the instruments in their dashboards weren't telling the truth.

In fact, many Honda odometers were awry for years, the lawsuit claimed, adding 2.5 miles to every 100 miles actually traveled — ending customers' auto leases and service warranties too soon, in many cases costing them hundreds of dollars in excess mileage charges or repair costs.

James Holmes, the lead attorney in the suit against Honda and one of two similar complaints against Nissan Motor Co., said his team tested odometers in scores of other vehicles from most other major automakers and found none to be so far out of whack.

Gillette Turns NASCAR Drivers into Reality Show

Gillette will be debuting a reality TV show this summer tied to its sponsorship of six NASCAR drivers.

The series, called Fast Cars and Superstars-The Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race, will feature the drivers and 12 celebrities.

Six one-half hour episodes will show the Young Guns training the celebrities on what it takes to drive a racecar. An hour-long finale pits the celebrities against one another during a time-trial race. The programming will run on ABC sometime this summer, said Mike Norton, a spokesperson for Gillette.

“We were trying to think of ways to expand that relationship with the Young Guns and tie that relationship and overall awareness more closely to the consumer target,” he said.

The idea came through work with its ad agency, BBDO. The plan was then pitched to ABC, which agreed to do it and run it this summer, Norton said.

Retail promotions will support the programming.

The celebrities include: Tony Hawk, Jewel, William Shatner, Krista Allen, Ty Murrary, John Salley, John Elway, John Cena, Serena Williams, Gabriel Rece, Laird Hamilton and Bill Cowher.

Filming has already wrapped.

The Gillette brand is embedded in the show, including branding on racecars and fire suits worn by the celebrities and on-track signage. Gillette TV spots will air during the programming.

Gillette has sponsored the six Young Guns since 2004. They are: Jimmie Johnson, Ryan Newman, Carl Edwards, Kasey Kahne, Kurt Busch, Jamie McMurray

March 22, 2007

The new V8 Power Unit for the BMW M3

• First eight-cylinder for the BMW M3 sports car.

• Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres (295 lb-ft) at 3, 900 rpm,
85 per cent of maximum torque over a speed range of 6,500 rpm.

• Consistent lightweight construction of engine and ancillary units, new V8 power unit one of the lightest eight-cylinders in the world, lighter than the straight-six power unit in the former model.

Its name alone spells out the epitome of ultimate driving pleasure: the BMW M3. And now the new version of BMW M GmbH’s most successful high-performance sports car bears out this claim once again, at the same
time providing a thrilling answer to the question asked by so many sports car fans around the world whether a further improvement is still possible at all.

And the answer is yes – for the new BMW M3 offers more in every respect.

Continue reading "The new V8 Power Unit for the BMW M3"

Chrysler Group Announces World and North American Debuts for NY Auto Show

Chrysler Group continues its successful product blitz for 2007 with a worldwide debut of a popular Jeep brand sport-utility vehicle at the 2007 New York International Auto Show.

"We don't want to spoil the surprise but we are planning a visual extravaganza for our worldwide Jeep debut," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President, Global Brand Marketing, Chrysler Group. "Jeep has been building industry-leading 4x4 vehicles for 65 years and this all-new Jeep will not dissapoint show attendees."

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Ford earns EPA award for conserving energy

* The Environmental Protection Agency has awarded its ENERGY STAR 2007 Partner of the Year Award in Energy Management to Ford Motor Company.

* Ford is the first automaker to receive this award two years in a row.

* Ford improved energy efficiency in the U.S. by 5 percent in 2006 and 25 percent since 2000.

DEARBORN, Mich., March 21, 2007 - Ford Motor Company's actions to increase energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its facilities have earned it the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's coveted ENERGY STAR 2007 Partner of the Year Award in Energy Management. Ford is the first automaker to receive the award two years in a row. The award will be accepted today at a ceremony in Washington D.C.

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Ford Expedition wowing 'em online

* “We are Ford SUV converts.”
* “The BOLD STYLE front grill turns heads from all the Tahoe drivers around town.”
* “Ride is smooth, quiet, and lots of power to spare!”
* “Its styling is giving many other drivers whiplash when we drive by them.”
* “The fold flat seat completely blows away the GM design.”
* “I like our new Expedition more every day.”

According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 New Autoshopper.com Study SM, 77 percent of new vehicle buyers consult independent online resources during their search for a new vehicle. Here are some verbatim comments about the 2007 Ford Expedition posted to Yahoo! Autos:

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Dodge Avenger to Debut on Sunday at NASCAR’s Fastest Short Track

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- The Dodge Avenger, which joins the Dodge Charger in NASCAR NEXTEL Cup competition this season, makes its racing debut Sunday in the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway — the first NASCAR Car of Tomorrow (COT) race.

Preparing for NASCAR’s 16 COT races in 2007 has kept the candle burning at both ends for most NASCAR NEXTEL Cup teams since the end of last season. The Avenger, Dodge’s racing version of the COT, has been tested at tracks throughout the country getting ready for the ultimate test in Thunder Valley, Tenn., this coming weekend.

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Posted by Frank at 9:12 AM | Email to a friend | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed under Auto News

How do you use WD-40?

Company Asks WD-40 Users to Expand Their List of 2,000 Favorite Uses

SAN DIEGO -- After years of input from thousands of WD-40 fans around the world on their favorite uses for the product, WD-40 Company is giving consumers the chance to help expand its official list of 2,000 uses with their suggestions.

WD-40 Company developed its official list seven years ago by asking consumers to submit their favorite uses. After choosing from more than 300,000 submissions, the list was born. Since that time, people have had access to the list through the WD-40 Fan Club, and WD-40 Company still sees a constant flow of uses coming from its users – true fans of the brand – who want to see their uses make it onto the official list.

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National Survey Reveals 70% of Americans Concerned About Global Warming

80% Agree Urgent Government Action Is Needed to Improve Situation

NEW YORK -- An overwhelming majority of Americans -- 70% -- say they are concerned about global warming, according to results from a new national survey. In addition, 80% feel it is urgent for government officials to take immediate steps toward reducing America's use of fossil fuels and harmful emissions like carbon dioxide (CO2).

The survey, commissioned by Piaggio Group Americas, was conducted by the International Communications Research firm on a representative sample of 1,000 U.S. consumers in February 2007. It produced these additional findings:

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Are You the Ultimate Tradesman? Winner Gets a Supercharged F-150

IRWIN Industrial Tools and NASCAR Driver Jamie McMurray Want to Know How You Measure Up

Nationwide Contest Will Award Chance to Win $1.26 Million Dollar Prize in Addition to New Roush Supercharged Ford F-150 to the Ultimate Tradesman

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. -- NASCAR NEXTEL Cup driver Jamie McMurray, of the #26 IRWIN Industrial Tools Roush Fenway Racing team, is joining forces with IRWIN Industrial Tools, a Newell Rubbermaid(R) company, to conduct a nationwide search for America's top tradesman.

The IRWIN Ultimate Tradesman Challenge will launch in Texas on April 11 and follow the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series schedule into 14 racing markets throughout the United States, in addition to multiple non-racing markets around the country.

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Mag: Cadillac developing V12 flagship

GM's Lutz confirms development under way on new Cadillac V12

DETROIT -- The AutoWeek March 26th issue reveals General Motors Holden division is well on the way to creating a new V12- powered Cadillac flagship.

In its cover story AutoWeek divulges that GM's Australian brand Holden is developing the hardware for an opulent V12-engined supersedan that draws its design inspiration from the 2003 Cadillac Sixteen concept car, a car that would return the high-line GM division as The Standard of the World. The story is written by Greg Kable, with reporting by Julian Rendell.

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Oracle Expands Relationship With Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru Adds Oracle's Siebel Applications to Its Existing Suite of Oracle Products

REDWOOD SHORES, Calif. -- Oracle today announced it has expanded its relationship with Subaru of America, Inc. As part of its efforts to consolidate technology vendors and standardize on Oracle, Subaru is adding Oracle's Siebel applications to its existing suite of Oracle products.

"Subaru has been an Oracle customer for many years and we are pleased to be adding the Siebel application to our data center," said Brian Simmermon, Vice President, Information Technology, Subaru of America, Inc. "We selected Oracle's Siebel applications because they offered us the greatest flexibility to support our business objectives."

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Chrysler Group Awards Iowa Dealership Top Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) Dealer of the Year

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- For the second consecutive year, Stew Hansen's Dodge City in Urbandale, Iowa, has secured the Chrysler Group's Top Volume National Sales Leader Award for Certified Pre- Owned Vehicle (CPOV) sales. Stew Hansen's Dodge City sold 1,055 CPOV units in 2006.

"Attaining the company's top volume CPOV sales dealer honor for two years in a row is a tribute to the skilled service and sales staff at Stew Hansen's Dodge City," Peter Grady, Director, DaimlerChrysler Motors Remarketing, said.

"The entire Stew Hansen team embraces CPOV which is a great way to introduce customers to the Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge brand family, retain consumers and instill brand loyalty," said D.P. (Bud) Place, Senior Manager - Used Vehicle Sales & Marketing, DaimlerChrysler Motors Remarketing.

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Volvo Names America's Top Hometown Heroes

Three Winners Announced in 5th Annual Volvo for life Awards

Celebrity Judges to Honor Winners at April 5 Volvo for life Awards Ceremony in the heart of New York City; Grand Award Winner Will Receive a Volvo Car for Life

IRVINE, Calif. -- A Portland, Ore. mother who dedicates her life to helping overseas victims of domestic abuse; a Baltimore, Md. teenage cancer survivor committed to the environment and pediatric oncology research and an African refugee and widowed mother of ten, now living in Peoria, Ariz., who fights to protect and rescue other refugees. These three individuals -- united by their conscience, care and character -- are the top three winning heroes named today in the 5th Annual Volvo for life Awards.

Paula Lucas, Eli Kahn and Rose Mapendo each will receive a $50,000 contribution to the charity of their choice and will be honored at the Volvo for life Awards Ceremony at the world famous Cipriani's in the heart of New York City on April 5. During the ceremony one overall grand winner will be named "America's Greatest Hometown Hero" and presented with a new Volvo every three years for the rest of his or her life.

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The Lean Enterprise Institute Offers Workshops Help Western Companies Compete

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- A series of 10 lean production workshops will help companies in the Western U.S. defend jobs, improve profits, and cut costs, according to the nonprofit Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI), which is running the workshops.

The workshops will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Westin Los Angeles, 5400 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. LEI runs workshops in a different region of North America every month on how to implement lean principles in manufacturing and administrative processes.

Lean principles cuts costs and inventories rapidly to free cash and resources, which is critical in a competitive world economy. Lean supports profitable growth by improving productivity and quality, reducing lead times, and freeing resources. For example, it frees office and plant space and increases capacity so companies can add product lines, in-source component production, and increase output of existing products. Companies implementing lean can take advantage of economic growth by increasing sales while controlling costs.

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Chrysler Group Recognized for Safety Efforts

- Chrysler Group Receives 87 Safety Awards from the National Safety Council

- Eighty-Nine Percent of the Chrysler Group's U.S. Manufacturing Plants Receive Awards

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The National Safety Council (NSC) recently presented the Chrysler Group with 87 safety awards. Eighty-nine percent of Chrysler Group's U.S. manufacturing plants received honors with 53 locations receiving multiple awards.

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Honda of Tri-Cities Earns Honda's Top Dealership Award

KENNEWICK, Wash.-- American Honda Motor Co., has awarded Honda of Tri-Cities the 2006 Honda President's Award. This award is presented to the top 15 percent of Honda dealerships across the country that have achieved a rigorous set of objectives encompassing all areas of operations - customer service and satisfaction, facility operation, training and sales.

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Can Toyota’s Scion keep its edge?

For the automotive industry, it was the height of hip.

At the Chicago auto show, Toyota's Scion brand unveiled two new models in two versions — one for real life, and another for virtual shoppers in “Second Life,” the popular online universe. Visitors to “Scion City” in the virtual world could test drive the new xB and xD models and buy computer-simulated versions of the vehicles.

It was the latest effort by Toyota to keep the Scion brand relevant for its youthful target market, a task that is growing more complex as the brand gows with new models and stronger sales.

Ford recalls F-150s over tailpipe fire fear

WASHINGTON - Ford Motor Co. on Wednesday told dealers to temporarily stop selling certain 2008 F-series Super Duty diesel pickups after receiving reports of flames shooting out of the vehicle’s tailpipe.

Ford said it was recalling 37,400 F-Series Super Duty trucks with 6.4-liter diesel engines. The majority of the pickups — 29,000 — were still on dealer lots, the automaker said.

Ford spokesman Dan Jarvis said it received three reports of flames coming from the truck’s tailpipe, caused by leaking fuel that ignited in the exhaust system’s diesel particulate filter near the tailpipe.

Reminder: Change oil every ... 12,000 miles?

DETROIT - Most major automakers agree: The adage that you should change your car’s oil every 3,000 miles is outdated, and even 5,000 miles may be too often.

Ford Motor Co. became the latest manufacturer to extend its oil life guidelines, making public that it is raising the recommended oil change interval from 5,000 miles to 7,500 on its newly redesigned 2007 models and all subsequent redesigned or new models.

The company, like many other manufacturers, said Tuesday that higher oil quality standards and new engine designs were responsible for the change, which affects vehicles driven under normal conditions.

10 car songs that hit on all cylinders

It was recently reported that Toyota will pass General Motors this year to become the world’s No. 1 automaker. This has far-reaching ramifications for the business world, of course, but it also may have a profound affect on music.

Over the years, American cars have often been celebrated in song. Certain models have been immortalized by artists in love with machines manufactured in and around Detroit. Now Toyota threatens that relationship.

Music aficionados are familiar with “Mustang Sally,” but would “Celica Sally” produce the same nostalgia someday? Is “Little Deuce Coupe” in danger of being replaced by “Little Green Prius”?

Projecting Flat U.S. Sales, Buick Calls '07 a Transitional Year

'Work in Progress' Includes Three New Models to Reach 'Grown-up' Buyers

DETROIT -- While Buick is building momentum in China, the General Motors Corp. premium brand is shrinking in its home market, making 2007 a year of transition for the automaker, which is rolling out three new vehicles. Buick's VP-marketing and advertising called the new Enclave crossover 'smoking hot.'

Steve Shannon, general manager of Buick, told an Automotive Press Association luncheon this week that 2007 is a transitional year for Buick in the U.S. He projected sales would be flat this year, partly due to production being halted for the 3-year-old Terraza minivan this summer. He declined to discuss how 2008 sales would play out. Buick also stopped production on its Rendezvous SUV-styled crossover in December, a model that attracted younger buyers.

The average age for a Buick buyer is 60 years old: 67 on the car side and 53 on the truck side, Mr. Shannon said. Buick is seen as a stodgy brand catering to older consumers, but Mr. Shannon expects to lower the average age of his buyers by only two or three years in the next couple of years, calling his target "grown-ups." Many of his target buyers have remained loyal to Buick over the years.

Nissan Reports February Sales in Europe

TRAPPES, France -- Nissan Europe reported total sales of 32,468 vehicles(x) in February 2007, a decrease of 4% compared to the same month last year. Year to date, Nissan sold 61,874 vehicles in Europe, a decrease of 5.3% compared to the same period last year.

Total industry volume was down 2.8% this month in Western Europe, compared to last year, particularly in markets such as Spain, Portugal and Germany (down 14% vs last year). Furthermore, following Nissan's run-out of three products from the popular C and D segments (Almera, Tino and Primera) at the end of last year, Nissan reported a decline in sales for the month of February.

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GEICO Philanthropic Foundation Grant to Fund Driver's Education Programs in Florida

LAKELAND, Fla. -- A grant from the GEICO Philanthropic Foundation will help students at eight Florida high schools practice safe driving techniques through the use of driving simulators.

Each school participating in the program will receive a "peddle car" simulator to be used as a teaching tool for parallel parking and impaired driving awareness.

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Toyota Counters NHTSA Crash Test Result

TOYOTA HAS GONE ON THE offensive to counter a decent score given its Tundra pickup by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in its head-on crash test.

NHTSA gave the truck four stars--good but not stellar. Toyota issued a release yesterday arguing that its own data shows a consistent five-rating, per NHTSA criteria. The company, for whom Tundra is a critical product if it is ever to crack the domestic hold on pickup, said, in a release: "We are currently reviewing both our internal data and NHTSA data to see what can be done in the future."

Acura Brings Sponsored Events To Fans Missing The Action

FOR THE SAILBOAT RACING ENTHUSIASTS who couldn't get to the events, the Honda division is posting highlights of a special broadcast of the races on a number of racing and sailing Web sites and will rebroadcast it in its entirety later this month. It also will be the focus of a direct-mail and magazine campaign during May. It first aired on ESPN2 and features Gary Jobson, former All-American collegiate sailor, ESPN analyst and sailing tactician for Ted Turner.

Acura sponsored the Acura Key West Race Week in January and the Acura Miami Grand Prix last week.

The programs feature footage shot from helicopters and chase boats, interviews with defending champ Ernesto Bertarelli and others, Acura marketing and other material. They will be direct-mailed to sailing enthusiasts via a 10-minute DVD and will be sewn into the May America's Cup edition--the biggest of the year, in terms of readership--of Sailing World, which has 60,000 subscribers. The DVD contains a brand spot and an ad for the Acura RDX.

March 21, 2007

President Bush tours Ford's Kansas City Hybrid Plant

* President tours Kansas City Assembly Plant’s hybrid assembly line to view production of Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid.

* President thanks Kansas City Assembly Plant employees for helping to deliver energy security by building hybrids and E85 vehicles.

* KCAP employees hear President explain how American technology and innovation will lead to energy security.

KANSAS CITY, MO – Ford Motor Company hosted President George W. Bush at the company’s Kansas City Assembly Plant on Tuesday, where the President thanked employees for being part of the solution to the country’s energy issues by building hybrid and E85 vehicles.

The President toured the hybrid assembly line and addressed more than 300 employees about the role American technology and innovation will play in delivering energy security to the country.

“Technology changes the way we have lived our lives and technology is going to change the way we drive our cars,” said the President. “You're making a new kind of automobile that is literally a part of changing America for the better.”

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Mazda partners with major Karting world brands

Automaker commits over $100,000 to grassroots support

Sebring, FL -- Mazda North American Operations used the annual sportscar racing extravaganza known as Sebring to announce the signing of multi-year contracts with the leading kart racing organizations in the U.S.A. These commitments further expand Mazda’s leadership in grassroots road-racing, and represent the largest ever commitment to karting from an automaker.

Mazda has signed partnership agreements with multiple sanctioning bodies and events, and will be highly involved with the following:

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VW TSI: More PS, Less CO2

THE TSI FROM VOLKSWAGEN - JUST ONE YEAR ON OFFER: MORE THAN 41,000 SOLD IN GOLF, JETTA & TOURAN MODELS

TSI stands for maximum power with minimum fuel consumption

140 PS TSI with the fuel economy and CO2 values of an 80 PS engine

WOLFSBURG, Germany - Maximum power at minimum fuel consumption: the TSI engines with twin charging have stood for this magic formula for more than a year. In this time, more than 41,000 Golfs, Jettas and Tourans have been delivered with TSI engines.

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Fusion gives Ford an on/offline hit

* “Ford is definitely back in the car business in a big way with this car.”

* “Ford really hit it on the nail with this one.”

* “The Fusion is the first American car I’ve owned in 20 years.”

* “ Ford is building the right kind of cars.”

1. My Fusion Smoked a Camry This Morning!!! “Ford is definitely back in the car business in a big way with this car. My Fusion is faster, has better fuel economy, looks better and handles better than the Camry or Accord. The best part is it’s $4,000 less, which means you'd be crazy not to choose the FUSION! This car is waking AMERICA up and slapping them across the face with American engineering taking center stage again where it belongs. At $249 per month for 39 months it’s a no-brainer.” – Tommy from Greenville, NC

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The Volkswagen Tiguan, virtually German

Interactively step by step from a concept car to a production vehicle

WOLFSBURG, Germany - A website featuring high-quality animations, real driving scenes and exclusive download features puts Volkswagen’s new offroad vehicle on computer screens in almost 50 countries eight months ahead of its launch.

At www.volkswagen.de/tiguan, potential customers can follow the development of the Tiguan in five layers from show car to production vehicle at the so-called Tiguan Base – a virtual building. Users can get to know the Tiguan world and move around it interactively. As the launch of the Touareg’s little brother approaches, more and more information about the real production vehicle will be revealed and the website content will become increasingly spectacular.

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Ford boasts hybrid lineup

* The Ford Escape Hybrid is built at Kansas City Assembly Plant, where President George W. Bush will visited Tuesday, March 20.

* Ford Motor Company is the only American auto manufacturer with full hybrid vehicles on the road today with the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids.

* The 2008 Escape and Mariner Hybrids qualify for Federal income tax credits of up to $3,000 –the highest of any hybrid.

* Ford invested $100 million in the Kansas City Assembly Plant for production of the 2008 Escape and Mariner, including hybrid models.

* More Ford hybrids coming: Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan launch in 2008.

DEARBORN, Mich. – In 2004, Ford Motor Company introduced the world’s first hybrid from an American automaker and the world’s first hybrid SUV, the Ford Escape Hybrid. Today, the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid has a new bolder design, numerous engineering refinements that deliver even better real world fuel economy and the highest Federal income tax credits available on any hybrid – up to $3,000.

The new 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid shares all of the technical improvements and value, but offers its own modern styling. In addition, insurance discounts of up to 10 percent are available in many states on both models.

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GM Partners with CDC, Foundation to Improve Emergency Crash Response

Expert panel to review vehicle crash data to determine better emergency medical response

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The GM Foundation announced today a partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the CDC Foundation to develop procedures that will help emergency medical responders better and more quickly determine if a motorist needs care at a trauma center after a vehicle crash.

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Ford using video podcast to bring consumers closer to the Edge

* Ford Edge and Rock River Music continue their series of downloadable full-length major label music video podcasts. More than 10,000 downloads have occurred.

* March’s artists include Snow Patrol, Nelly Furtado, Peter Bjorn & John and La Rocca.

DEARBORN – In February, Ford Edge launched the industry’s first free music video podcasts with its partner, Rock River Music. Music fans responded and downloaded more than 10,000 videos at http://www.fordvehicles.com/edgevideocast. The Edge podcast has consistently ranked in the Top 100 on the iTunes most played list throughout February.

This month’s artists include Snow Patrol, Nelly Furtado, Peter Bjorn & John and La Rocca.

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Mazda2, lots of compact fun for you

• MAZDA2, the first Zoom-Zoom choice

• Superior fuel economy through lightness and compactness

HIROSHIMA, Japan Mazda began using this expression with the launch of its first new-generation model, the Mazda6, in 2002. It expresses the love of motion and is used by children to imitate the sound of an engine. And it has always been more than merely a brand slogan. It describes Mazda’s ultimate goal: to provide customers, who never forgot the love of motion they felt in childhood, with an exhilarating driving experience.

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GM's Approach to Energy Security and Climate Change

What We Believe Will Make a Difference

By Beth Lowery
Vice President, GM Environment and Energy

Rollercoaster-like gas prices, regional conflicts and global climate change have put energy security and environmental issues front and center of the national debate. Reducing gasoline consumption as well as our collective impact on the earth's climate should be national priorities. These, too, are our priorities at GM and we recently told Congress what we're doing to lessen our dependence on petroleum and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Last week, Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO, testified before the US House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce. He was not alone. Other key leaders of the world’s larger auto manufacturers and from the UAW also provided testimony ranging from product plans centered on advanced technology, biofuels, and the effectiveness of the three-decade old Corporate Average Fuel Economy Program (CAFE).

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Ford shows Pres. Bush its breakthrough plug-in hybrid

* The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive is the world’s first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle with plug-in capability.

* Ford’s flexible powertrain architecture enables the use of new fuel and propulsion technologies as they develop without redesigning the vehicle and its control systems.

* The HySeries Drive technology is able to operate using a fuel cell, small gasoline or diesel engine connected to an electric generator to make electricity.

Kansas City -- Ford Motor Company showcased the world’s first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric plug-in vehicle at the Kansas City Assembly Plant during a visit by U.S. President George W. Bush.

The vehicle combines an onboard hydrogen fuel cell generator with lithium-ion batteries to deliver more than 41 mpg with zero emissions. It is built on a flexible powertrain architecture that will enable Ford to use new fuel and propulsion technologies as they develop without redesigning the vehicle.

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Car Buyer's Notebook

Recent Stories

Topics

March 31, 2007

Hoop dreams, blimpin'

March 31, 2007

Record Number of First-Time Bidders Attend Barrett-Jackson

GM, Carnegie Mellon to Demonstrate Vehicles that Drive Themselves

Science Classrooms Receive $550,000 From Toyota TAPESTRY Grant Program

Toyota First Asian OEM to Host the Society of Automotive Engineer World Congress

Enterprise Rent-A-Car to Acquire Vanguard Car Rental

GM Wins Best Investor Relations Web Site Award from IR Magazine

Nissan's Pitch For Mini-Car: Accessorize It

March 30, 2007

Pope's old VW has got great book value

Muniz to Compete As a Professional Driver

Web voters choose Chrysler Derby faves

Westfalia Van celebrates three years of Mercedes conversions

Chrysler Group Announces Pricing on 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

VW launches fuel saving initiative in China

Environmental trends align GM brands

Finance VP leaves Ford

General Motors Increase Investment and Capacity at New Russian Assembly Plant

Nissan moves Mexico finance headquarters

VW house mag wins award

Nissan adds NISMO 350Z to lineup

Mercedes uses computer tracking to measure driver distraction

Ford offers ethanol for cops [in their cars]

Volvo drops ad agency during review

Ford supporting hydrogen research in Australia

Younger Purchaser Profile Marks a New Trend in Custom Car Collectors

Sony Renews Sponsorship for NHRA Sport Compact Racing Series

Nissan Introduces Innovative Valve Control Technology

Alfonso Albaisa New Vice President of Nissan Design Europe

Chevrolet Taxi Van Provides New Yorkers Greater Mobility

S.C. Dealer sells 13 millionth Volkswagen

General Motors Recognized Among Top 50 in Diversity

Mercedes-Benz Statement in Response to EPA SCR Guidelines

GM's Stealth Minivans

Report: No bonuses for top GM executives

Pro Golfer to win Orange County Chopper

Bosch Carbon Dioxide Sensor Saves Fuel

Honda Wants to Be Known for Safety

Gasoline prices set to hit new record highs

March 29, 2007

Chrysler Group the First to Offer SIRIUS Backseat TV

Mopar Chooses Don Petco As First “Top Eliminator” Award Winner

NADA's Automotive Career Month Kicks Off Next Week

When to Hang Up the Car Keys?

Tour of Cars and Charity Gala Kick Off Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction

Four College Fans Get The Shot Of a Lifetime ... Shooting Basketballs From The Goodyear Blimp

VW Jetta, Passat finalists for 2007 Advertising Awards

Lear Honored by Toyota for Superior Supplier Diversity and Quality Excellence

AMG turns 40 with an anniversary edition

BMW marks 3 decades of soft-top 3 series w/book, DVD

Chevrolet Prepared to Unveil Three Minicar Concepts in New York

Audi Announces 2008 R8 U.S. Pricing

Honda Adds New Type R to Japanese Civic Lineup

XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Service Expands to 50 Markets

Land Rover Offering SIRIUS Satellite Radio as Standard Equipment

World Car of the Year Announces Top Three Finalists

Zipcar, Mass. Enhance Partnership to Reduce Car Ownership, Increase Commuting Options

Four 'Regular Joes' Become Driving Stars at Dunlop Drivers Cup World Finals

Online exchange for real-world parking spaces

U.S. Automakers Endorse Japan Currency Manipulation Act

Arkansas Enacts SEMA Street Rod/Custom Vehicle Bill

US Automakers Say Report Confirms Urgent Need to Strengthen Yen, Reduce Risk of Global Recession

Volvo Selects Kenexa to Facilitate Global Strategic Recruiting Initiatives

Motorola's First In-Car Streaming Audio Solution Now Available at Verizon

Neil Schloss Named Vice President and Treasurer; Ann Marie Petach To Leave Ford

roadreport.mobi Pioneers Mobile-Internet Service for Motorists

Bosch Start-Stop Systems Reduce Consumption, Emissions

Hydrogen researchers try fuel cell powered plane

Hyundai luxury ready to roll

March 28, 2007

Trio of Hyundai Vehicles Receives Five-Star Safety Ratings From NHTSA

Michelin Plans to Cover Los Angeles and Las Vegas for 2008

Win a 2007 Kia Rondo

Amelia Island Concours Taps Tom Cotter for Co-Chairman

Valley Toyota Dealers Honor Latino Entrepreneurs