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March 17, 2007

Corvette Racing Unveils Ron Fellows Special Edition in Sebring 12-Hour Race

Team Transforms No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R from Yellow to White to Salute New Limited Edition Z06

SEBRING, Fla. – One of Corvette Racing's familiar yellow C6.Rs will have an all-new look when the green flag falls to start the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring today. The crew of the No. 3 Compuware Corvette has transformed their race car from Velocity Yellow to Arctic White. The new look salutes the limited edition Ron Fellows ALMS GT1 Champion Corvette Z06 that was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show in February.

Fellows will share the glistening white machine with teammates Johnny O'Connell and Jan Magnussen in the classic 12-hour endurance race. It's the first time since the 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans that a factory Corvette has raced without its trademark yellow livery.

Led by 2006 GTI Crew Chief of the Year Dan Binks, the crew of the No. 3 Corvette C6.R replaced all of the yellow body parts – fenders, doors, hood, roof, rear quarter panels, door sills, and front and rear fascias – with new white panels. The team also installed a fresh LS7.R race engine, drivetrain, and brake/suspension components as part of their routine pre-race preparation for today's grueling 12-hour contest.

"Ron Fellows is part of Chevrolet’s racing heritage, and he has been instrumental in the remarkable success of the Corvette Racing team in the American Le Mans Series," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "The special signature-series Z06 model that bears his name will forever link him to one of the greatest eras in factory racing, which has produced six consecutive ALMS GT1 manufacturers championships, and counting."

This special Corvette Z06 is the first signed special edition in Corvette’s 54-year history, and is the first Arctic White Z06 ever offered. Only 399 are planned for production: approximately 300 for the United States, 33 for Canada and 66 for other export markets. The Ron Fellows ALMS GT1 Champion Corvette Z06 will be available this spring. It carries an MSRP of $77,500, including destination.

The Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, the first round of the 12-race 2007 American Le Mans Series, is scheduled to start at 10:00 a.m. ET on Saturday, March 17, 2007. Portions of the 12-hour race will be televised live on SPEED Channel from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 to 10:30 p.m. ET.

Posted by Frank at 1:39 PM

Aschenbach Takes Second for Cadillac in Sebring

Reigning SPEED GT Champion Scores Podium Finish in Team Cadillac Debut

SEBRING, Fla., March 16, 2007 – For the fourth straight year, Team Cadillac was on the podium in the season-opening round of the SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT series at Sebring International Raceway. After three consecutive runner-up finishes by Andy Pilgrim, this year it was Lawson Aschenbach who claimed runner-up honors in his first race with Team Cadillac.

"We had a great run today and my Cadillac CTS-V race car was flawless," Aschenbach declared. "This is a great way to start the season with a podium finish. We'll see if we can get to the top step at the next race in Long Beach."

Aschenbach combined solid race strategy with savvy driving to begin Team Cadillac's pursuit of the SPEED GT manufacturers championship in style. The race began with standing water on portions of the track following a thunderstorm of biblical proportions, but the racing line was drying rapidly when the field took the green flag in a single-file rolling start.

Aschenbach, the 2006 SPEED GT champion, started his No. 1 Cadillac CTS-V fifth in the queue, one spot behind his teammate Pilgrim. The twin Cadillacs steadily gained positions in the opening laps and were running third (Pilgrim) and fifth (Aschenbach) after five circuits. After the second-place Corvette suffered an apparent mechanical problem on the ninth lap, the Cadillac drivers moved up to second and third.

A restart following a full-course caution from lap 11 to lap 13 proved decisive. Aschenbach put the hammer down when racing resumed and moved to second, while Pilgrim was having problems with his gearbox and fell to sixth. Aschenbach pursued Eric Curran's Corvette relentlessly to the end of the 18-lap race, finishing 1.429 seconds behind Curran's red Corvette. Pilgrim was sixth across the stripe after a spirited duel with a pair of Porsches in the closing laps.

"We really wanted to win this race, but the Corvettes are tough to pass," Aschenbach reported. "They're 125 pounds lighter than us and use the same engine as our Cadillac CTS-V race cars. I can't say enough about Andy. He had a bout of bad luck this weekend, and he deserves to be up here along with me. I'm sure he'll be back."

Pilgrim saw his streak of podium finishes at Sebring end at three. "Unfortunately I had a gearbox problem so I was nursing the car," he explained. "I couldn't shift gears if there was any lateral load on the car. I figured out what was happening, but I couldn't race like that, so I just tried to stay out of trouble. It's disappointing, but sixth is better than seventh."

Cadillac is now second in the manufacturers championship and Aschenbach is second in the drivers' standings.

"Today's race was a fantastic start to the season," said Steve Wesoloksi, GM Road Racing Group manager. "Lawson made us proud and proved that he has the skills of a champion. If Andy hadn't had a mechanical problem, I think we could have had two Cadillac drivers on the podium."

Today’s SPEED GT race will be televised tape-delayed on Sunday, March 25, at 2:30 p.m. ET on the SPEED Channel. The next event for Team Cadillac is the Grand Prix of Long Beach on the streets of Long Beach, Calif., on Sunday, April 15, at 7 p.m. ET (4 p.m. local time). That race will be televised tape-delayed on Sunday, April 21, at 3 p.m. ET on SPEED.

Posted by Frank at 1:33 PM

IndyCar Series Prepares for Debut of 100 Percent Fuel-Grade Ethanol

INDIANAPOLIS -- The IndyCar Series is poised to make motorsports history when it turns the first competitive laps with its 3.5-liter Honda Indy V-8 engine powered by 100 percent fuel-grade ethanol at the XM Satellite Radio Indy 300 on March 24 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

The IndyCar Series is the first in motorsports to use a renewable fuel, setting the trend for the “Greening of Racing.” Indy car racing had previously used methanol for more than 40 years.

“The IndyCar Series jump to ethanol has been great,” said Tony Kanaan, the series’ 2004 champion. “We are definitely on the right path with ethanol. There is more power with the new (3.5-liter Honda Indy V-8) engine. It runs clean and it is better for the environment. So it is a win-win situation, and that is great for the series. Ethanol is another alternative to gasoline. If we can show that the IndyCar Series cars can run ethanol, then it is good for everyone’s street cars.”

As the IndyCar Series prepares for the competitive debut of ethanol, several themes have developed on and off the track perpetuating the ethanol story:

* Homegrown & American Made: The IndyCar Series is the first in motorsports to use a homegrown fuel. Most U.S. ethanol is made from corn, but the production process is versatile. It works with most sugar-containing plant materials, such as sorghum, wheat, barley and potatoes.

In fact, ethanol producers in Brazil use sugar cane to start the process. Renova Energy in Torrington, Wyo., produces ethanol for the IndyCar Series and is one of the more than 110 ethanol plants in production. In 2006, these facilities produced nearly 5.4 billion gallons of ethanol - enough to enrich 46 percent of all gasoline sold in the United States. Currently, there are more than 75 ethanol plants under construction in the U.S.

* High-Performance: Ethanol in high-performance vehicles has been one of the renewable fuel’s most attractive qualities and best kept secrets. With racing machines that reach speeds in excess of 230 mph on 100 percent fuel-grade ethanol, the IndyCar Series is the ultimate challenge for ethanol as a performance fuel, illustrating a higher octane rating (113 to methanol’s 107), a high flash point (55.4º F to 52º F) and a larger energy content (77,000 BTU per gallon to 64,250 BTU per gallon).

Ethanol’s positive energy balance means the energy source produced gives back more energy than it took to create it. And that balance helps give the IndyCar Series cars a positive feel on and off the track.

* Environmentally Friendly: Ethanol is a cleaner energy source that has been shown to reduce harmful air pollution by reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. The IndyCar Series previously had used methanol, a fuel produced from natural gas, a non-renewable source. Since ethanol is produced from agricultural products that can be replanted, such as corn, the supply can continually be replenished. It is also 100 percent biodegradable, meaning it won’t harm groundwater.

Even the co-products from the ethanol production process at the nation’s 110 ethanol plants, including IndyCar Series supplier Renova Energy in Torrington, Wyo., don’t go to waste. The leftover grain is used as a highly nutritious livestock feed and carbon dioxide that is produced is sold to the carbon beverage and dry ice industries.

* Marketing Activation: The Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC) has been fine tuning its first-ever national marketing campaign around its partnership with the IndyCar Series. As part of its marketing activation EPIC has created a mobile marketing unit that will travel to all 16 domestic IndyCar Series events in 2007 and will be located in each track’s midway area.

EPIC’s television partnership with ABC/ESPN is its first on any national level and features IndyCar Series-specific commercial that will run during IndyCar Series telecasts. EPIC also has committed to local advertising buys in race markets. Additionally, EPIC will continue with its Pump Tours, allowing consumers to buy E10 fuel in race markets at a reduced price. The tours include IndyCar Series drivers and serve as an initiation for many consumers to an ethanol-enriched product.

The IndyCar Series opens its ethanol-powered season on March 24 under the lights at Homestead-Miami Speedway. All 17 races on the 2007 schedule, including the Indianapolis 500, will be run on 100 percent fuel-grade ethanol.

Posted by Frank at 8:33 AM

March 16, 2007

Team Chevy Claims Three of the Top-Five Starting Spots at Atlanta

Jimmie Johnson, Mark Martin and Jeff Gordon to Start Kobalt Tools 500 in Third, Fourth and Fifth

Hampton, GA - Three Team Chevy drivers put their Monte Carlo SS race cars in the top-five starting spots for Sunday's Kobalt Tools 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway, race number four of the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series season.

Defending NASCAR Nextel Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, No. 48 Lowe's/Kobalt Monte Carlo SS will roll off third, on the inside of row two.

Mark Martin, No. 01 U.S. Army Monte Carlo SS and Jeff Gordon, No. 24 DuPont Monte Carlo SS, will fill the third row starting fourth and fifth respectively.

Kyle Busch, No. 5 Kellogg's/Carquest Monte Carlo SS, qualified in the eighth position.

The 325-lap/500-mile race is scheduled to take the green flag at 2:00 p.m. EDT Sunday with FOX, PRN Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio broadcasting the action live.

JOHNNY SAUTER, NO. 70 BEST BUY MONTE CARLO SS: "I am really proud of the guys on my team. We picked up over a second and a half from practice for our qualifying run. During practice, we were way off. But the really helped it, it was just awesome, so I just hope it is good enough to get in. I had to catch my breath after that one. I wasn't sure it was going to stick on that second lap, but I was going for it. The Best Buy car was sideways on the first lap, but I had asked 'Bootie' (Barker, crew chief) to tell me my lap time. I had to know. When I heard the time, I knew we had to step it up on that second lap, and it worked out for us. I'll be glad when we get past Bristol. Hopefully, we'll be solidly in the top-35 and I won't have to stress so much. This is making me old before my time."

JOE NEMECHEK, NO. 13 GINN RESORTS MONTE CARLO SS: "I got it sideways around that corner but I never let up. I tell ya, my ole heart can't take that every week. Man that is going to be good start. Man, Mark Martin had a good lap too. I just went for it all."

MARK MARTIN, NO. 01 U.S. ARMY MONTE CARLO SS: "I was coming down the straightaway and right when I got to the corner, I breathed out and fogged up my shield. I said, "Oh Lord, I can't do that any more. I couldn't see going in the corner, I hit the apron down here on the first lap and I am not a Mr. Second Lap kinda guy. It is such a priveldge to drive for this U.S. Army team and Robin Pemberton. We have underestimated so much how awesome Ryan and this whole team is. I saw what Sterling did and was real proud of him and I thought man, if I can just run that, we will be ok. Then Joe (Nemechek) I am so proud of him because he wasn't that good in practice. This is such a great group. I feel like I am living a dream, I am the luckiest guy in the world to be driving this U.S. Army Chevy."

JEFF BURTON, NO. 31 CINGULAR WIRELESS MONTE CARLO SS: "We struggled in qualifying trim today. We just never quite got it the way we wanted it. We were pretty far off. They made some really good changes. It was just way too tight, but they made some good changes because the car was way more drivable. At least I could carry some speed. It was way too tight to run as fast as we wanted to be. We've qualified really well this year and this is the first time really in quite a while that we've gone somewhere and didn't feel like we were very competitive in qualifying trim. You'll have that every now and then and we'll be OK tomorrow."

DALE EARNHARDT JR., NO. 8 BUDWEISER MONTE CARLO SS: "I drove it as hard as I could. We haven't had that great of starting spots so I was just trying to do really, really hard laps there for my team trying to get them a good starting spot. They gave me a great car. This car is really fun to drive. I don't really know how much the wind affected me. The sun is the worst part trying to get into turn one."

KYLE BUSCH, NO. 5 KELLOGG'S/CARQUEST MONTE CARLO SS: "I'm not bad right now. We're second. Hopefully that will put us somewhere in the top 10. I don't normally run well here but it's a fun place to race. You can go all over and there's not a lot of grip out there on old tires so you're kind of searching anyway. I'm proud of the way the Kellogg's/CARQUEST Chevrolet boys came out here this week. They spent a lot of time trying to get me a better race car, trying to get me some more grip. So far it's working for us so we're looking forward to it. The Busch car is really good. This car is pretty good so it should be a good Saturday and Sunday."

JEFF GREEN, NO. 66 YELLOW TRANSPORTATION CHEVROLET: "It wasn't the lap I wanted. I had no idea what I ran. The car kind of pushed in (Turn) 1, but felt good coming off, then it tried to slide out through the center of (Turns) 3 and 4 on the second lap. I'm scratching my head. We've struggled all day in the Yellow Transportation Chevrolet. I know it's going to keep Harold (Holly, crew chief) awake tonight thinking about it, and I'm sure I won't sleep too well, either. Hopefully we can get a handle on it tomorrow."

JIMMIE JOHNSON, NO. 48 LOWE'S/KOBALT MONTE CARLO SS: "We are (carrying momentum). The team has done an amazing job again once again. We have the Kobalt on the car and they're also the title sponsor of the race so we're hopeful for good things. That lap was good. It was solid. If I had another try at it, I would change a few things. I didn't know what to expect but everybody is in the same boat though. The cool air had me a little confused. My guys were having some trouble repeating their times from practice so all in all a good lap and there was more grip out there than I expected."

ON HIS RUN: "It was a real good run. I was a little confused with a lot of the cars getting faster on the second lap. Then I ended up doing the same thing. I didn't really know what to expect on the first lap then got a decent lap in. Then the second lap the car was really, really strong and ended up third. I felt like if I had another try at it, which I'm sure everybody says this, but I felt like I could have improved my speeds but this was the best qualifying effort I've had in a long, long time. I'm usually better on Sunday than Friday so I'm very happy with it."

WITH THE WEATHER TONIGHT PROBABLY NOT BEING MUCH LIKE SUNDAY, IS THERE ANYTHING YOU CAN GET OUT OF RUNNING TODAY THAT WILL HELP YOU SUNDAY? "We recognized that this morning looking at the weather forecast for what we have on Sunday and we expected to have today and we chose to just work on qualifying effort today. We typically spend some time in the first practice session working on race setup so we just really worked on today and I think it showed. We qualified in the top three which is nice and we'll have a great pit pick. I'm real happy with that. We recognized that early and just avoided race practice today and we'll focus on that tomorrow."

Posted by Frank at 6:31 PM

Anthony Franco Named 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' Designer

Los Angeles Designer to Show Fall 2007 Collection in Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

LOS ANGELES -- Anthony Franco, known for his edgy and elegant Hollywood inspired collections, will be featuring his Fall 2007 collection as the "Mercedes-Benz Presents" designer for this season's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, March 18-22. The Anthony Franco Fall 2007 Collection will show on March 21 at 7:00 PM in The Lightbox.

Each season, Mercedes-Benz sponsors a designer who reflects exceptional talent to be exhibited during the five-day runway event. "Mercedes-Benz is thrilled to be supporting Anthony Franco's Fall 2007 show," says Carol Goll, General Manager, Brand Experience Marketing, Mercedes-Benz USA. "His designs are rich with detail and have a timeless quality that mirrors the creative Hollywood environment - he is the quintessential Los Angeles Designer. We are excited to be promoting emerging design and we are certain that Franco's passion for style and emphasis on detail, textures and color will be a tremendous contribution to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios."

The Anthony Franco Fall 2007 Collection will feature 16 men's and 18 women's pieces that are inspired by the timeless elements of the "old west" as portrayed in HBO's television series, Deadwood (2004). The pieces have a vintage-like, aged beauty that is created through the usage of unique shapes, elaborate beading, over-dyed treatments, and hand-worked fabrics. "This collection, inspired by historical icons such as Mae West and Jesse James, features the bold qualities of the wild west with a polished and elegant approach," says Franco. "I am proud to be showcasing my collection in Los Angeles with the timeless and always stylish Mercedes-Benz brand," says Franco of his sponsorship.

Choosing to not show a Spring 2007 Collection, Franco followed his Hollywood roots and inspired cutting edge styles for Christina Aguilera, Toni Braxton and Panic! At the Disco. Throughout his career, Franco has dressed high-profile women including Halle Berry, Angelina Jolie, Reese Witherspoon, Julia Roberts, Janet Jackson and Maria Bella, among others. In addition, Franco has designed costuming for more than 20 films including the box-office hit, X-men (2000); Legally Blonde (2001); Catch Me If You Can (2002); Time Machine (2002); Idlewild (2006); and most recently for Christina Aguilera's music video, "Ain't No Other Man."

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios will take place in Culver City, California, at Smashbox Studios, from March 18-22. Approximately 25 designers will present their Fall 2007 collections, including Sue Wong, Collection bebe, Grail and Imitation of Christ. Mercedes-Benz has been the title sponsor of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios since its inception in Los Angeles in 2003.

For more information about Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios and for a schedule of shows and events, visit www.mbfashionweek.com.

ABOUT ANTHONY FRANCO

Born and raised in Los Angeles, designer Anthony Franco is one of the most cutting-edge designers of his time. The self-taught designer, began his career at an early age in Hollywood during which he created whimsical outfits and personal designs for the MCA record label's R & B clientele, including performers such as Mary J. Blige, Jody Watley and Karyn White. He established his first boutique in the fashionable, Melrose Heights shopping district during the fall of 2000, but closed the shop to pursue a career in costume design for films. Franco has since designed costuming for more than 20 films and despite his longstanding success in the costume and wardrobe design industry, he continues to create ready-to-wear collections that incorporate his design esthetic. Franco exhibited his Spring 2006 collection at Mercedes- Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios and he returns to the runway again as the "Mercedes-Benz Presents" designer for this season's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, March 18-22.

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

Posted by Frank at 3:45 PM

First Skip Barber Mazda MX-5 Cup Three Day Racing School is April 27-29

SEBRING, Fla. -- The Skip Barber Racing School is excited to announce an all-new iteration of its famous three-day competition course. The Skip Barber Mazda MX-5 Cup Three Day Racing School will use Mazda MX-5 race cars built by Skip Barber Racing to the exact same specifications as those raced in the popular SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup series.

That makes this the only three day racing school in North America where students drive the exact same cars as used in a professional racing series.

Scheduled to launch at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in April, the new program is based on the same proven curriculum as Skip Barber’s open-wheel formula-car school, but suitably modified to take advantage of not only the unique capabilities of the MX-5, but the vast experience of Skip Barber’s many instructors whom currently race closed-wheel sports cars. This is a new capability, unique to the Skip Barber Racing School. The cost, $3,995, is the same as its formula-car school.

“Sedan racing is growing very quickly in North America and we expect to see that trend to continue well into the future,” said George Ayres, Skip Barber chief operating officer. “This program will give an extraordinary advantage to the serious amateurs and professionals looking to advance their skills and gain a competitive edge. Much like our famous open-wheel school, we expect auto enthusiasts to gravitate to the program even if they are fully licensed or have already graduated from a Skip Barber open-wheel school.”

The first two MX-5 Cup Schools are April 27-28-29 and May 1-2-3, both at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. The third is scheduled for May 21-22-23 at Road America, with additional dates at Road America being explored. The MX-5 Cup School will return to Mazda Raceway mid-summer and be available year round there.

By the fall of this year, the MX-5 school will be available at Skip Barber’s Florida bases – Sebring International Raceway and Daytona International Speedway – then in the spring of 2008 it will come to Lime Rock Park in Connecticut, the fifth base location.

“No one else has a three-day racing school of the type we do, in a car raced by pros. We’re confident there is a good market for that,” explains Ayres. “Its primary draw, we think, is that this is the only racing school using a car that’s currently raced professionally. It’s ideal for people looking to race in Grand-Am, ALMS, SCCA and other sedan and sports car championships.

“And because the MX-5 Cup car is a two-seater, our instructors may ride ‘right-seat’ for specific on-track exercises where instantaneous feedback will be of huge value to the student. No three day racing school other than Skip Barber can provide that.”

Like the successful formula-car three day school, the MX-5 Cup School will emphasize track time combined with the best, most experienced instructor corps in the industry. Participants who complete the school will receive a certificate they can send to the Sport Car Club of America (SCCA) to obtain a regional racing license, the same as for graduates of the formula car school.

For more information, visit www.skipbarber.com

Bullet Points

* This is the first and only racing school in North America in which “raw” students – no experience needed – are learning the art and science of race car driving in the very same car as is used in a professional racing series: The SCCA Pro Racing Sirius Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

* The renowned Skip Barber Three Day Racing School curriculum provides the basic structure for the new MX-5 Cup School, but is modified to account for the unique capabilities of the MX-5, including the opportunity for instructors and students to ride together.

* The school leverages the vast experience of Skip Barber’s many instructors whom currently race closed-wheel sports cars.

* The first three Skip Barber MX-5 Cup Three Day Racing Schools are scheduled for April 27-29, May 1-3 (both at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca) and May 21-23 at Road America.

* Skip Barber is the largest, most respected racing school in the world. Established in 1975, its list of now-famous graduates is long and enviable and includes winners and champions in virtually every form of major motorsport: NASCAR Nextel Cup/Busch/Craftsman Truck, Formula 1, IRL, Champ Car, Indy 500, Le Mans, 24 Hours of Daytona, Rolex Sports Cars, ALMS, 12 Hours of Sebring, A1GP, GP2 – even NHRA drag racing. Some of those grads are: Jeff Gordon, Marco Andretti, Juan Pablo Montoya, Scott Speed, A.J. Allmendinger, Bobby Labonte, Bryan Herta, Michael Andretti, Bill Elliott, Sam Hornish, Helio Castroneves, Kenny Schrader, Scott Sharp, Tony Kanaan, Whit Bazemore, Kasey Kahne, Darrell Alderman and dozens of others.

* With the just-announced news that the SCCA Pro Racing Sirius Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup champion will be awarded by Mazda a funded drive in the following year’s SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, a “ladder system” for aspiring sports car racers is now in place.

Posted by Frank at 2:48 PM

Nick Faldo is the new Maybach brand ambassador

"Maybach Golf Cup" for customers and friends of the brand

London/Stuttgart, Mar 16, 2007 -- In future the high-end automobile brand Maybach and the golfing legend Nick Faldo will have a joint involvement in golf. Today Klaus Nesser, CEO of Maybach, SLR and Exclusive Products, and Nick Faldo, Europe’s most successful golfer, concluded a long-term partnership agreement at Brooklands near London, Great Britain.

"With Nick Faldo we have gained a brand ambassador who achieved an extraordinary level of success during his active career as a golfer, and who – like the Maybach brand – is involved in promoting the development of young talent," said Klaus Nesser. As part of his activities as a new ambassador for the Maybach brand, Faldo will take part in this year’s "Maybach Golf Cup" for potential and existing Maybach customers.

"As a professional golfer I was always striving to become the very best player that I could possibly be and it is that same passion for perfection that has been applied to the development of this very special car. The Maybach represents the absolute pinnacle of motoring style and technology and I’m delighted to be so closely associated with a brand that shares the very same values as my own", commented Faldo on his new partnership with the car-maker.

With Nick Faldo, Maybach has gained a partner who is able to look back on a unique series of achievements during his sporting career: he has notched up more than 40 worldwide tournament victories, including six Majors and eleven nominations for the European Ryder Cup team, with which he celebrated four victories. More recently, Faldo was appointed Captain of the 2008 European Ryder Cup team, and he has also been working as a TV commentator for the Golf Channel and CBS in the USA.

Exclusive tournament series for potential and existing Maybach customers

In addition to its partnership with Nick Faldo, Maybach is intensifying its involvement in golf with the "Maybach Golf Cup" to be held this year. Existing and prospective customers will be able to take part in four European tournaments in order to qualify for the final in the USA. Teams of four players will compete against each other during this series. In line with the so called Pro-Am system, each quartet will have one golf professional in its ranks. Apart from Nick Faldo, these will include top Tour player Gary Evans. On offer as a very special hole-in-one prize at the "Maybach Golf Cup" is a Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.

The qualifying rounds will commence at the end of April 2007 with the opening of the newly constructed golf course at the exclusive "La Zagaleta Country Club" outside Marbella, Spain. The tournament at the "Golf and Country Club" in Moscow, Russia, will take place in mid-June, with the last two rounds being played in Braz, Austria, and Beuerberg, near Munich, Germany, in July. The final will be held in December 2007 at the "Trump National Golfclub" in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Posted by Frank at 2:27 PM

Team Trans Sport Racing Announces 2007 American Le Mans GT2 Program

BOSTON -- Jim Bell, of Bell Motorsport, and Tim Pappas have joined forces to campaign a 2007 Porsche 997 GT3 RSR in the American Le Mans Series GT2 class. The new team, Team Trans Sport Racing ("TSR"), will be run out of Bell's Miami Florida shop, with management being jointly coordinated between Pappas and Bell.

While Jim's accolades are well known in American sports car racing, Tim's are less so, however, he has been involved in professional sports car racing since 2000. Pappas previously fielded three cars in the Speed World Challenge Touring Car Class in 2002 and 2003, as well as being a co-driver in successful Grand Am Cup teams in 2001, 2004, 2005, and 2006.

Though TSR is quite new, it was granted a contract for one of the highly sought after RSR's back in July of 2006, which has given Pappas and Bell plenty of time to plan the season's strategy. Many probably relate Jim to his recent overall victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona or Daytona Prototype Championship in 2004 and 2003 respectively; however, Jim has had an affiliation with Porsche racing cars that dates back to the 1970's. In fact, before Bell was a pioneer in the new DP Class, he was honored with the IMSA Mechanic of the Year title in 1979, while campaigning a Porsche 935. Pappas has long driven and raced Porsche's both in club and pro level competition and has been active in Porsche Club of America since 1991.

TSR will also partner with Yokohama Tire Corporation to develop a new tire for ALMS GT2 competition. Engineers from both the US and Japan will be working closely with the team throughout the season. “Yokohama is proud to partner with Team Trans Sport for the 2007 season and look forward to producing top results together,” commented Robert Dole, Product Promotions Manager for Yokohama Tire. “The GT2 category is always tough but in 2007, it promises to provide the most exciting competition in all of the ALMS. Knowing this, it is very important to have partners on the track that you work well with and can constantly develop your product on daily basis. There is absolute confidence at Yokohama that we have found that with Jim, Tim and the entire Trans Sport team.”

"Yokohama is no stranger to the process of developing competition tires. I have enjoyed working with them in the past because Yokohama is a technical company, which thrives on winning. We have planned a full testing program and should have something for the competition in short order," commented Bell.

Team Trans Sport Racing's driver lineup for the 12 Hours of Sebring will be Americans Terry Borcheller, Mike Fitzgerald, and Tim Pappas. "After waiting months for this car to arrive from Germany, it was fantastic to shake it down at the IMSA Winter Test at Sebring. Though planning out our season and creating partnerships for the team has been exciting, nothing can compare with turning laps in the new RSR," explained Pappas.

The Technical Partners that have committed to TSR are Yokohama, Performance Friction, Moton Suspension Technology, H&R Springs, MOMO Italy and Renewable Choice Energy. vineyard vines® will be the official supplier of non-racing apparel for Team Trans Sport Racing. TSR plans to debut its car livery and full Corporate Partner lineup at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, on March 17th.

Be sure to check out Team Trans Sport's web site at www.transsportonline.com and look for more announcements in the coming weeks.

Posted by Frank at 2:24 PM

Yaris: Free YR Radio

Indie Radio and Rock Take Center Stage with Urban Outfitters and Toyota’s Yaris

* Partnership to Launch First-Ever “Free YR Radio” Campaign to Benefit U.S. Independent Radio Stations

* The Rapture to headline launch party March 14 at SXSW

AUSTIN, Texas -- Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) and Urban Outfitters (URBN), are celebrating a shared passion for music by giving independent college and non-commercial radio stations a much needed edge in the competitive radio market.

The brand partnership will launch “Free YR Radio,” a multi-phased program which includes in-store concerts, vehicle giveaways, and a compilation CD featuring music from top indie bands, all to benefit non-commercial radio stations in major U.S. markets. “Free YR Radio” will make its debut at the 2007 South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, TX.

To mark the “Free YR Radio” launch, internationally-acclaimed punk-disco band The Rapture will perform at La Zona Rosa in Austin on March 14. The band, known for its trademark 80s sound will electrify the venue with tracks from their 2006 album, Pieces of the People We Love.

In addition, the popular updated 60’s pop girl group trio, The Pipettes will make their SXSW debut. Becki, Gwenno and Rosay will work their magic with songs from We are the Pipettes, originally released in the U.K. The trio plans to hit the shelves this summer with a much anticipated U.S. version of the album releasing on Cherrytree/Interscope Records.

“Free YR Radio is a unique initiative that could have a significant impact on a radio station like Seattle’s KEXP," says Courtney Miller, KEXP Marketing Manger. "KEXP champions artists and musicians that otherwise wouldn't get air-play, so it is so great to see Yaris and Urban Outfitters develop a campaign that supports this endeavor."

The “Free YR Radio” campaign will feature free in-store concerts by top local bands at Urban Outfitters locations across the country and will help promote indie bands online and on independent radio stations. The in-store performances will be held in April and May, with a dates and venue announcement by the end of March. The markets confirmed for in-store performances include:

Los Angeles, CA
Santa Cruz, CA
Chicago, IL
Seattle, WA
Austin, TX
New York City
Philadelphia, PA
Lawrence, KS
Minneapolis, MN
Boulder, CO
Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, NC
Boston, MA

Each participating “Free YR Radio” band will have the opportunity to customize a special “Band Built Yaris.” It could be upholstery, a hood ornament or air freshener – unique touches that reflect the band’s own imitable spirit and personality. The special-edition vehicles will include a digital music player pre-loaded with music selections by the regional partner bands, and supplemented by play lists, podcast and station specific music in each market from the local radio partners. The radio stations will use the twelve vehicles to raise funds, and each vehicle will be awarded to a listener from each station.

Throughout the year, the “Free YR Radio” program will offer music lovers additional incentives to foster support for participating bands and non-commercial radio stations including; the chance to win dorm/apartment furnishings from Urban Outfitters valued at $2,000, a UO wardrobe for up to $1,000 and a custom digital music player preloaded in each Band-Built Yaris.

A “Free YR Radio” benefit CD featuring tracks from select partner artists will be compiled and sold exclusively at Urban Outfitters stores at the end of the year-long program. The CD will also be featured on the play list at www.urbanoutfitters.com. All proceeds from the compilation CD will be divided among the participating radio stations; each will receive a check at the end of the program to be used at its discretion.

To get updates about the “Free YR Radio” tour, visit www.FreeYrRadio.com.

Posted by Frank at 2:17 PM

DaimlerChrysler Donates $1 Million to Howard University

* Gift is the largest amount ever awarded by the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund to a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)

* Students in schools of Business and Engineering to benefit from the funds

* Donation helps Howard University to exceed its capital fund drive goal of $250 million over five years

Auburn Hills -- As part of the 83rd annual Howard University Charter Day Dinner with approximately 2,200 people in attendance, the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund presented Howard University with a special gift of $1 million that helped the 140-year-old historically black college exceed their five-year capital fund drive goal of $250 million.

“This gift to Howard University is the largest single amount ever given by the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund to a historically black college or university,” said Frank Fountain, Senior Vice President – External Affairs and Public Policy (Auburn Hills), Chrysler Group. “The company has a very strong relationship with Howard that spans nearly 20 years and has produced many alumni who work for DaimlerChrysler. We are excited that future students in the schools of Business and Engineering will benefit from our long association with Howard University.”

Funds from the grant will fund scholarships and other activities in the School of Business for the study within the Supply Chain Management discipline and for scholarships within the School of Engineering for graduate and undergraduate studies.

Frank Fountain was introduced at the Charter Day Dinner by Earl G. Graves Sr., Chairman and Publisher of Black Enterprise magazine, member of the DaimlerChrysler Supervisory Board and member of the Howard University Board of Trustees. Also present for the grant presentation was Rob Liberatore, DaimlerChrysler Group Senior Vice President – Global External Affairs and Public Policy. Howard University President H. Patrick Swygert received the donation.

The annual Charter Day Dinner celebration is an 83-year tradition celebrating the founding of Howard University. The occasion has also become a major fund-raising event.

Posted by Frank at 2:16 PM

Home Depot Expands NASCAR Sponsorship

Proceeds to benefit The NASCAR Foundation and KaBOOM!

ATLANTA -- The Home Depot, the world's largest home improvement retailer and the "Official Home Improvement Warehouse of NASCAR(R)," today announced it will become this year's exclusive retailer of NASCAR Day pins. NASCAR Day 2007, an annual, charitable celebration of the spirit of NASCAR fans, will be held on Friday, May 18.

In support of the initiative, the company will run a special NASCAR Day- themed paint scheme on the No. 20 Home Depot Chevrolet(R) driven by two-time NASCAR NEXTEL(R) Cup Series champion Tony Stewart as he competes in the April 15, 2007, NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race at Texas Motor Speedway. NASCAR Day pins will be available at The Home Depot stores nationwide starting April 16 while supplies last.

Proceeds from the sale of NASCAR Day pins at The Home Depot will equally benefit The NASCAR Foundation(R) Family of Charities, which is comprised of more than 30 nonprofit organizations supporting children's causes, animal welfare and conservation efforts, and The Home Depot's national nonprofit partner KaBOOM!(R), whose vision is to create a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America.

"We know that NASCAR fans are a devoted, loyal group of consumers who love to support their drivers as well as their respective charities," said Roger Adams, chief marketing officer and senior vice president of The Home Depot. "Becoming the exclusive retailer of NASCAR Day allows us an opportunity to not only support The NASCAR Foundation and our own partner KaBOOM!, but through the sponsorship we're able to strengthen our relationship with NASCAR and the entire NASCAR community."

NASCAR Day is a one-day celebration of the NASCAR spirit and its fans. In exchange for a $5 donation, participants, including NASCAR fans, corporations, schools and organizations across the country, will receive a commemorative 2007 NASCAR Day lapel pin for their donation.

"We at NASCAR are thrilled that The Home Depot is taking a leadership role in NASCAR Day," said NASCAR President and The NASCAR Foundation Vice Chairman Mike Helton. "By being this year's retailer of NASCAR Day pins, The Home Depot will be providing our fans with an easy way to support their favorite NASCAR charity."

NASCAR Day began in 2004 and celebrates its fourth observance in 2007. Annually held on the Friday prior to the NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge in May, it has become one of the most important and fastest-growing traditions in the NASCAR family. In 2006, NASCAR Day raised more than $1.3 million, which included over 3,000 companies across the country, over 100,000 pins sold online, 29 official state proclamations issued, and NASCAR Day celebrations held worldwide.

Since 1999, The Home Depot has been an official sponsor of NASCAR and the No. 20 racing team. In 2004, the company extended its agreement with Joe Gibbs Racing(R) and Stewart through 2009.

Source: The Home Depot

Posted by Frank at 2:13 PM

Used Car Sales Significantly Impact New Vehicle Pricing and Brand Strength

Sales of New and Used Vehicles Are Strongly Interrelated, According to a New Study from the Car Internet Research Program and Capgemini

OTTAWA & PARIS -- The used car business is here to stay and will increasingly impact the new vehicle market in a variety of ways, including residual values, pricing, brand strength and customer relationships. As a result, manufacturer involvement in inventory management and used vehicle branding is crucial for enabling dealers to carry out successful remarketing programs.

These are among the findings from a new report focusing on the used car market published by the Car Internet Research Program (CIRP) and Capgemini. The study, titled “Anatomy and Physiology of the Used Car Business,” provides an in-depth analysis of the used vehicle market with a particular focus on four key markets: U.S., Canada, France and Germany. The research examines: (i) the growth of the used car business, in both size and importance, (ii) global trends affecting the used car business, (iii) the customer buying process, including Internet usage, (iv) a comparative analysis of the four markets, and (v) success strategies for dealers/manufacturers.

The importance of the used car market is growing significantly. In both the U.S. and France, for example, the used-to-new vehicle ratio has increased since 1999 from 2.4 to 2.6, showing a steady growth of used vehicle sales by volume. In addition, used vehicle sales in the U.S. are today more than twice as profitable for dealers as new vehicle sales (a roughly 2.7% profit margin, as compared to 1.2%).

“Franchised dealers’ used vehicle operations now act as a hedge against uncertainties in the new vehicle market and even support new vehicle sales,” said Dr. Christian Navarre, Director of the Car Internet Research Program. “With declining margins in the new car business and the aging of vehicles on the road, the used car business is likely to be a growing and increasingly important component of franchised dealers’ sales, both in North America and in Europe.”

It is clear from the research that the key to continued growth will be transparency and symmetry of information, as consumers apply the same approach to research and collection of information in their search for used vehicles as they do to the new car buying process. For example, although consumers still use local newspapers and word-of-mouth when researching used car purchases, they are turning to the Web in increasing numbers, highlighting the importance of having a strong Internet strategy for used vehicle programs.

While national used vehicle markets differ in character and structure due to a variety of socio-economic, regulatory and other factors, the report identified six core strategies that are essential for growing used vehicle sales:

* Continually improve the customer experience, from the Internet to the showroom.
* Rationalize customer relationships through Customer Relationship Management (CRM).
* Perfect online promotion and merchandising efforts to reach prospective and existing customers.
* Manage inventory and pricing with network-wide IT solutions.
* Maximize high-margin sales opportunities.
* Optimize certified used vehicle programs.

“Consumer attitudes to used vehicles have become more sophisticated as vehicles themselves have improved in quality and reliability,” said Nick Gill, Global Automotive Leader for Capgemini. “The tools used by consumers have also evolved, resulting in the need for dealers and manufacturers to fundamentally change their approach to the sale of used vehicles, as this report demonstrates. While these changes involve significant financial investments, they hold the potential for great returns and are, in fact, necessary in today’s market. Dealers and manufacturers face a rapidly evolving car market; they must evolve with it if they do not wish to be left behind.”

About the Car Internet Research Program II (CIRP II)

The Car Internet Research Program (CIRP II) is an industry and academic-sponsored automotive research program directed at understanding how new information and communication technology will impact the automobile industry. Administered through the University of Ottawa, CIRP is sponsored by a variety of industry stakeholders that include: Capgemini, PSA Peugeot Citroën, Renault SA and The University of Ottawa.

Posted by Frank at 2:11 PM

'Insider Trading': A Unique Guide to Buying and Selling Cars

OCALA, Fla. -- Americans have a love affair with cars. They want the fastest, newest and most impressive machines on the road. In his new book, "Insider Trading" (now available through AuthorHouse), author Ted Lindsay states: "The automotive sales industry has always had a reputation based on deception.

The focus has been on the "tricks of the trade" while little focus is on the trade itself." Lindsay, an auto-industry veteran, teams with journalist Larry Bush to give sales professionals and car buyers important insider tips and guidelines to help them sell or buy an automobile while having fun in the process.

"Insider Trading" is a distinctive flip-style book which offers instructions for the sales professional on one side and guidelines for the car buyer on the other. On the selling side of Insider Trading, Lindsay uses a no- nonsense, fun approach to car sales. He brings his 34 years of auto industry experience to life while sharing valuable advice and anecdotes that offer the sales professional a realistic "how-to" approach. Lindsay believes this information can benefit sales professionals by increasing their job satisfaction and helping them become top sellers in their dealership. On the flip side, potential car buyers can learn the ins and outs of negotiating for the new or used car they desire and actually enjoy the process.

Lindsay and Bush hope that "Insider Trading" will allow both salespeople and car buyers alike to reap the benefits of a much-loved industry.

Lindsay graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1972, where he played on the Wildcat men's golf team. After graduation, he entered the automobile industry and since then, has held almost every conceivable position from the factory to the retail dealership. Lindsay, a father, husband and coach, currently resides in Ocala, Fla.

Bush graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in journalism. Over the years he has worked as an editor for several newspapers and as a magazine columnist. He also resides in Ocala, Fla., with his wife and three daughters.

Posted by Frank at 1:57 PM

Tampa Native to Live the Ultimate Fan Experience Shadowing Jeff Burton

Detroit -- From on-track marriages to naming their first born after their favorite driver, race fans are some of the most dedicated and diehard fans anywhere. Team Chevy and igotshotgun have been helping to feed race fans’ appetite for “insider information” by searching for a crew member to live the ultimate fan experience riding shotgun with Jeff Burton and the #31 Chevy Racing Team at the Kobalt Tools 500 in Atlanta this weekend.

That lucky crew member will be Elizabeth Somers, a 36-year-old Tampa native and NASCAR enthusiast. Elizabeth will shadow Team Chevy and experience a NASCAR race like few ever get to. She’ll join Jeff Burton’s pit crew during Sunday’s Nextel Cup series and participate in other behind-the-scenes activities leading up to it, including taking a few hot laps around the track of the Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS) and interviewing Team Chevy drivers. Her experience will be documented by igotshotgun, a consumer-driven Web experience that takes people behind-the-scenes of GM-sponsored entertainment, sports and pop culture events.

Somers responded to GM’s ongoing casting call for applicants interested in joining the igotshotgun crew. She created a short video showing off her NASCAR knowledge and on-camera skills and submitted it at www.igotshotgun.com for a chance to join Team Chevy in Atlanta.

“We selected Elizabeth from among all the other applicants because of her poise and confidence in front of the camera, her enthusiasm for racing and her strong desire to chronicle the Chevy Racing experience from behind the scenes,” says Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager. “igotshotgun is about the view most people never get to see. By taking a camera into the garage, the pit and an actual race car, Elizabeth will enable the rest of the world to see what she’s seeing. Through her video and written blogs, she’ll be able to share even more insight into what it’s like to be there among Team Chevy’s greats.”

Known as the fastest track on the circuit, AMS’ 1.5-mile track located southeast of Atlanta in Hampton, Georgia, always provides plenty of excitement for fans and drivers alike. In the 95 NASCAR Cup races held at Atlanta Motor Speedway since 1960, Chevrolet has amassed 33 victories – more than any other manufacturer. Of the Team Chevy line-up this weekend, six drivers on the roster have visited victory lane in Atlanta. Somers will be right there amid all the action capturing the experience in video and written blogs to be posted at www.igotshotgun.com throughout the weekend.

“I know how truly lucky I am to have this opportunity, and I can’t wait to share my experience with the world,” notes Somers.

In addition to firsthand perspective from pop culture fans selected to join the igotshotgun crew at events, the igotshotgun.com includes professionally produced video content and occasionally features celebrity hosts, such as Damien Fahey. To date, igotshotgun has sent crews to the Super Bowl, SONYBMG Grammy After Party, GM Style and GM TEN.To apply for a spot on the igotshotgun crew, interested candidates can visit www.igotshotgun.com and upload a video demonstrating why they have what it takes to ride shotgun with GM to the best in pop culture.

Posted by Frank at 1:49 PM

NCAA and Pontiac Launch March Madness with Game Changing Performance

Pontiac Will Hit $1 Million Mark in General Scholarship Awards to NCAA® Colleges and Universities

DETROIT--The tradition continues with Pontiac's Game Changing Performance and the 2007 NCAA® Division I Men's Basketball Championship, one of the most successful programs of its kind and still the only fan-voted scholarship award program.

The Pontiac Game Changing Performance program invites fans to select the defining moment that determines the outcome of the game and, perhaps, the season. Four finalist schools will receive a $5,000 contribution to their general scholarship fund, plus the chance to be voted the Pontiac Game Changing Performance of the Tournament (ncaasports.com/pontiac). The overall winning performance will earn one school a contribution of $100,000 from Pontiac to that school's general scholarship fund.

"Now in its third year, Pontiac Game Changing Performance continues to demonstrate Pontiac's kinship with NCAA® athletics because both stand for performance. Furthermore, Supporting NCAA® member institutions and helping their fans get closer to the game by encouraging teams, schools and their supporters to align together is why Pontiac is viewed as the leading sponsor of the NCAA®, " said Chris Hornberger, Pontiac Advertising Manager.

All you have to do is look to the winner of last year's Pontiac Game Changing Performance of the Tournament to see the impact the program has on NCAA® colleges and universities.

"In well over a century of existence, no single event has brought such attention and such unity to Northwestern State University," said university president Dr. Randy Webb. "For a school like ours, this reaches so deeply. We're so appreciative to Pontiac."

After each round leading to the NCAA® Men's Final Four®, CBS will nominate four pivotal plays. Alumni, students and fans voting online at ncaasports.com/pontiac will determine which of those four represents the single outstanding example of "Pontiac Game Changing Performance" for that round.

On March 28, CBS will announce the four Pontiac Game Changing Performance finalists. And, once again, fans can vote online to determine who will be the overall $100,000 winner. The winning school of the Pontiac Game Changing Performance of the Tournament will be announced on CBS during the Championship Game on Monday, April 2.

Pontiac is also excited to continue its' strong support of women athletics with the Pontiac Game Changing Performance Award for the NCAA® Division I Women's Basketball Championship. Similar to the Men's program, ESPN will select the key play from each round leading to the NCAA® Women's Final Four®. During the Championship game on April 3, 2007, ESPN will select the Women's Game Changing Performance of the tournament. The winning school from each round will receive a $5,000 general scholarship award from Pontiac.

In a new twist for 2007, each round one lucky individual who visits ncaasports.com/pontiac will win a $5,000 scholarship for themselves or their family. In total, Pontiac will be providing close to $200,000 worth of scholarships to NCAA ® colleges and universities from both the men's and women's NCAA® tournaments and individual scholarships this season.

"The Pontiac Game Changing Performance program is a perfect example of an initiative that continues to support higher education and the athletic achievements of our NCAA student-athletes," said Peter Davis, director of NCAA corporate alliances. "We knew this could be a program that would have long-term benefits for our colleges and universities, and three years later we're seeing the program's growth, positive response from the public and fans and ongoing support from our membership."

As the Official Performance Machines of the NCAA®, Pontiac continues to lead the way in bringing fans closer to their favorite NCAA® sports through its Pontiac Game Changing Performance program, and by giving fans a major voice in determining which schools will earn a Pontiac Game Changing Performance nomination and, the ultimate prize, a $100,000 general scholarship contribution from Pontiac.

Full program details are available at ncaasports.com/pontiac.

Posted by Frank at 1:48 PM

Porsche entry nails fastest Sebring time

American Le Mans Series, round 1 in Sebring, USA

RS Spyder sets new lap record

Stuttgart -- A successful dress rehearsal for the Porsche RS Spyder: With a new lap record, Timo Bernhard (Germany) secured the fastest qualifying time in the LM P2 class for the twelve hour race of Sebring/Florida and with it claimed a good starting position for the long distance classic which opens the 2007 American Le Mans Series season on Saturday.

Timo Bernhard qualified his sports prototype, which was built at the Porsche Motorsport Centre in Weissach, on the second row of the grid. The German shares the cockpit of the number 7 RS Spyder with Romain Dumas (France) and Helio Castroneves (Brazil).

Initially Sascha Maassen (Germany) had planted the second factory-supported RS Spyder run by Penske Motorsports on pole position, however his pole-setting time was disallowed due to his lights not being turned on. In the American Le Mans Series the headlights must be on while driving during the day, as well. The number 6 RS Spyder takes up the race from the fifth row with Ryan Briscoe (Australia) and Emmanuel Collard (France) sharing driving duties with the title defender.

“The car ran perfectly. We went out onto the track very late to grab a flying lap without too much traffic. That paid off,“ said Timo Bernhard after his first pole position in the RS Spyder. “In a twelve hour race your grid position is not that decisive, but it's good to see that we are looking strong against much tougher competition this season.“

The Porsche-supported privateer team from the US, Dyson Racing, celebrated a good start to its first season where it fields two new RS Spyders for the first time in the American Le Mans Series. With back-up from Americans Butch Leitzinger and Andy Lally, Andy Wallace (Great Britain) qualified his RS Spyder with starting number 16 on the third row. In the number 20 RS Spyder, Chris Dyson (USA) takes up the race from the fourth row with team mate Guy Smith (Great Britain).

In the GT2 class for modified near-standard sports cars, title defender Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) clinched the third quickest time in the new Porsche 911 GT3 RSR run by Flying Lizard Motorsports. Close behind in fourth was his compatriot Wolf Henzler in the 911 GT3 RSR fielded by Tafel Racing. His team colleague Dominik Farnbacher (Germany) claimed fifth in qualifying.

The Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring takes off on Saturday at 10am local time (3pm CET).

Qualifying result

1. Marco Werner (D), Audi R10 (LMP1), 1:44.974 minutes
2. Rinaldo Capello (I), Audi R10 (LMP1), 0.352 behind
3. Timo Bernhard (D), Porsche RS Spyder (LMP2), 1.072
4. David Brabham (AUS), Acura ARX (LMP2), 2.135
5. Andy Wallace (GB), Porsche RS Spyder (LMP2), 2.156
6. Bryan Herta (USA), Acura ARX (LMP2), 2.449
7. Chris Dyson (USA), Porsche RS Spyder (LMP2), 3.201
8. Adrian Fernandez (MEX), Acura ARX (LMP2), 3.443
9. Sascha Maassen (D), Porsche RS Spyder (LMP2), 5.211
10. Ben Devlin (GB), Mazda B07 (LMP2), 5.338

Posted by Frank at 9:13 AM

Audi diesel racer breaks Sebring record in qualifying trials

SEBRING, Fla. - The updated Audi R10 TDI makes a strong impression in its debut: In qualifying for the 12 Hours of Sebring, Marco Werner lowered the track record by almost a second. With his record lap, the Audi factory driver made a perfect comeback in the American Le Mans Series which he already won twice in 2003 and 2004.

Defending champion Dindo Capello set the second fastest time in qualifying, allowing both Audi diesel sports cars to start from the front row on Saturday at 10 a.m. local time. The Italian was unlucky when Thursday’s 25-minute qualifying sessions was interrupted while he was on a fast lap.

For the first time since the race at Road America last August, two Audi R10 TDI sports cars will start from the front row of the grid in the American Le Mans Series. It’s the fifth pole position for the revolutionary diesel sports car in its ninth race.

The Audi drivers will face a more difficult challenge, however, in Saturday’s race: The fuel tank capacity for diesel sports cars was reduced from last year’s 90 liters to 81 liters. This means, that the R10 TDI has to come into the pits at Sebring about three laps earlier compared to 2006.

Quotes after qualifying

Dr Wolfgang Ullrich (Head of Audi Motorsport): "We know that qualifying is not important for the race result – either at Le Mans or at Sebring. But it is nice to have both cars on the front row of the grid. The team has earned this result. It shows the potential of the new Audi R10 TDI. As we expected, the LM P2 cars are not much slower. This means we have to work out a good setup for the race.”

Frank Biela (Audi R10 TDI #2): "Up until now everything went well, we had almost no problems at all this week. We could concentrate totally on the setup and qualifying proved it works well. Congratulations to Marco, he did a superb job. However, we still have the big task ahead of us on Saturday.”

Emanuele Pirro (Audi R10 TDI #2): "Having both cars on the front row is not so important for a 12-hour race. But it shows we have done a good job developing the car from last year. Of course I’m very happy that Marco took the pole. But I’m even more happy that we were able to improve the car every day because on Monday the balance was not as good as now.”

Marco Werner (Audi R10 TDI #2): "Coming back into the race business with a pole position in such a classic race as Sebring is nice. Thanks to Audi, the qualifying lap with the car was fantastic. We waited a little bit at the beginning because the track seemed to be a bit dirty. That worked out perfectly. It was also important to get the maximum out of the Michelin tires on the very first lap.”

Dindo Capello (Audi R10 TDI #1): "I was a little unlucky in qualifying because of the red flag which affected our strategy. The plan was not to push on the first lap but to do a run of four laps. When I started the second lap the red flag came out. I tried again after the re-start but must admit that I pushed too hard too quickly although the tire grip was not so good anyway. I congratulate Marco, he drove a great lap for pole. But we start also from the front row, this is good.”

Tom Kristensen (Audi R10 TDI #1): "It’s good to be racing the Audi R10 TDI again – the first time for me since Le Mans last June and only the third time in total after. I have been able to get up to speed quickly this week in the 2007 R10 TDI which has been optimized. We naturally try to win here at Sebring, which is a tough race in itself, but of course it is good preparation for Le Mans in June. We definitely will not underestimate Peugeot’s effort.”

Allan McNish (Audi R10 TDI #1): "As soon as the revised 2007-spec Audi R10 TDI was taken out of the truck on Monday it was immediately fast on the track, confirming that the development over the winter had been very positive. However, we still need to fine tune the balance and ‘feel’ of the car to get it 100% to our liking which is a normal situation for the first race of the season.”

The starting grid at Sebring

1 Biela/Pirro/Werner (Audi R10 TDI) 1m 44.974s
2 Capello/Kristensen/McNish (Audi R10 TDI) 1m 45.326s
3 Dumas/Bernhard/Castroneves (Porsche) 1m 46.046s
4 Brabham/Johansson/Dayton (Acura/Honda) 1m 47.109s
5 Wallace/Leitzinger/Lally (Porsche) 1m 47.130s
6 Herta/Franchitti/Kanaan (Acura/Honda) 1m 47.423s
7 Dyson/Smith (Porsche) 1m 48.175s
8 Fernandez/Diaz/Martinez (Lola-Acura/Honda), 1m 48.417s
9 Maasssen/Briscoe/Collard (Porsche) 1m 50.185s
10 Bach/Devlin/Matos (Lola) 1m 50.312s

Posted by Frank at 9:10 AM

U.S. Team orders pair of Porsche Spyders

CET/Solaroli Motorsports enters the American Le Mans Series with Porsche

Stuttgart -- With two new Porsche RS Spyders, the US privateer team CET/Solaroli Motorsports enters the American Le Mans Series this season. The two sports prototypes, built at Porsche's Motorsport Centre in Weissach will soon be delivered to Al Solaroli (52) and his Jacksonville-based team. The first race is scheduled for the middle of the season.

Besides Dyson Racing, which fields two new RS Spyders for the first time at the 12 hours of Sebring/Florida on Saturday, CET/Solaroli Motorsports is the second privately-run US team to contest the series with the further-developed winning car of last year's American Le Mans Series. As winner of all LM P2 championship titles in the 2006 American Le Mans Series, Penske Motorsports runs two RS Spyders with factory support from Porsche.

“We think that CET/Solaroli Motorsports will be successful in putting together a professional team with top drivers and will be competitive at the highest level right from the get-go,“ said Porsche's head of motorsport Hartmut Kristen. “To already have six RS Spyders competing in the American Le Mans Series this year exceeds all our expectations.“

Team-owner Al Solaroli himself raced with Porsche in the past in Canada and the USA. Today he runs a successful technology enterprise.

Posted by Frank at 9:01 AM

Hyundai Expands Azera Lineup With New GLS Model Featuring 28-MPG 3.3L V6 Engine

* New trim level -- GLS equipped with 3.3-liter V6 engine, which achieves
21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway

* 17-inch wheel and bumper moldings with chrome-inserts standard on SE

* Azera Limited with Ultimate Package now features a 605-watt Infinity Logic 7 Surround Sound AM/FM/XM/CD-changer/MP3 audio system with 12 speakers (including subwoofer) and external amplifier

* All three trims are equipped with standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai Motor America announced pricing today for the all-new 2007 Hyundai Azera GLS equipped with a powerful, yet fuel-efficient 3.3-liter V6 engine. The SE trim level has also been upgraded and a surround sound audio system is now available on the Limited model.

AZERA GLS

The GLS includes an impressive range of standard features that give it a competitive edge, including a powerful 3.3-liter DOHC V6 engine with 234 horsepower, a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC(R) manual control, standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS), eight airbags, active front head restraints, a six-speaker AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with MP3 capability, and achieving 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway fuel economy. Upscale features include LED tail and brake lamps, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with HomeLink(R), power driver and front passenger seats, and automatic headlight controls. Also available is an optional power tilt and slide sunroof ($950 MSRP).

AZERA SE

The Azera SE is an upscale, stylish large sedan designed for consumers who are interested in a unique combination of spaciousness, a more powerful 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engine with 263 horsepower and safety technologies. The SE creates a more distinctive and upscale look with 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels and bumper moldings with chrome-inserts. Available options include a Premium and Leather Package ($2,800 MSRP) which includes a power tilt and slide sunroof, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, and a premium Infinity(R) audio system with in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

AZERA LIMITED

A truly impressive array of standard features and amenities define the prestigious Azera Limited. Additional standard features on the Limited include leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, an electroluminescent gauge cluster, power rear sunshade, and other upgrades. The Limited also has steering wheel wood trim and bumper moldings with chrome-inserts.

AZERA LIMITED with PREMIUM PACKAGE

The Premium Package ($1,550 MSRP) includes a power tilt and slide sunroof and premium Infinity audio system with in-dash 6 disc CD changer.

AZERA LIMITED with ULTIMATE PACKAGE

The Ultimate Package ($3,100 MSRP) defines Hyundai's flagship Azera offering. This package now includes a new 605-watt Infinity(R) Logic 7 Surround Sound AM/FM/XM/CD-changer/MP3 audio system with 12 speakers (including subwoofer) and external amplifier. The Ultimate Package also offers a power tilt and slide sunroof, power adjustable tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power adjustable pedals, integrated memory system (power driver's seat, exterior mirrors, and power tilt & telescopic steering wheel), power folding side mirrors with turn signal indicators, and rain-sensing wipers.

Azera pricing
GLS 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with $24,895 including $660 freight
SHIFTRONIC(R)

SE 3.8L V6 5-Speed A/T with $26,195 including $660 freight
SHIFTRONIC(R)

Limited 3.8L V6 5-Speed A/T with $27,995 including $660 freight
SHIFTRONIC(R)

WARRANTY

The all-new 2007 Hyundai Azera is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty(TM). Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Azera buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) that includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif. is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 750 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.

Source: Hyundai Motor America

Posted by Frank at 8:50 AM

Barrett-Jackson Sues to Halt Defamation

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Late yesterday Barrett-Jackson Auction Co. LLC filed suit in U.S. District Court in relation to a situation that occurred at the company's January 2007 Scottsdale event. A consignor, apparently unhappy with the $300,000 sale price of his vehicle, placed chains and locks on the vehicle after it crossed the auction block and was sold, while it sat in the area where featured auction cars were displayed.

He posted multiple notices on the vehicle claiming that the sale was void due to claimed "auction irregularities," and published other false and defamatory statements about Barrett-Jackson in view of the company's customers and the thousands of patrons attending the event. Barrett-Jackson's internal legal and security teams, and the Scottsdale Police Department, responded to the incident and documented the damage.

An ongoing internet smear campaign has stemmed from this seller dispute, with numerous defamatory rumors and untrue statements being published to websites and online chat rooms viewed by the company's core customer base. In particular, an untrue, derogatory and defamatory "article" referring to the above incident has made its way onto more than 20 automotive-related online "blogs" and discussion boards frequented by thousands of classic car enthusiasts around the world.

Barrett-Jackson filed its lawsuit in order to protect its 36-year reputation and business interests by seeking to correct the untrue information that has been published, and by filing suit against the responsible party on six separate counts, including defamation and breach of contract.

Barrett-Jackson constantly strives to maintain the utmost ethical standards in all the company's operations and activities. The company recognizes that not every customer will be happy with the result of every auction sale, and the Barrett-Jackson team values thoughtful, well-informed feedback. However, Barrett-Jackson takes the company's business reputation very seriously, and will do whatever is necessary to defend against unfounded claims.

Copies of the lawsuit can be obtained by contacting the clerk of the U.S. District Court in Phoenix or at http://www.azd.uscourts.gov/.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the "World's Greatest Collector Car Events(TM)" in Scottsdale and Palm Beach, Fla. For more information, visit http://www.barrett-jackson.com/

Source: Barrett-Jackson Auction Co. LLC

Posted by Frank at 8:49 AM

Nissan Announces Management Changes

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced changes to its senior global management team. All changes are effective April 1, 2007.

"The priority for our new management team is to act decisively on the multiple challenges facing Nissan and to boost our overall performance in 2007," said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn.

Executive Vice Presidents

- Hidetoshi Imazu, senior vice president, vehicle production engineering division is appointed executive vice president, manufacturing and SCM. Imazu will be proposed as a director of the company at the annual general shareholders meeting in June.

- Tadao Takahashi, executive vice president, manufacturing is appointed vice chairman with responsibility for external and government affairs and the intellectual asset management. Takahashi replaces Takeshi Isayama who is retiring from the company

- Carlos Tavares, executive vice president, corporate planning, product planning, market intelligence, brand management, design, program management, LCV business adds the control function and the Infiniti business to his responsibilities.

- Mitsuhiko Yamashita, executive vice president, research and development adds the total customer satisfaction function to his responsibilities.

Senior Vice Presidents

- Colin Dodge, senior vice president, manufacturing, Nissan Europe is appointed senior vice president, general overseas markets (GOM), China operations and global information systems. Dodge will also serve on the Nissan executive committee.

- Junichi Endo, senior vice president, global aftersales and conversion business adds global marketing and sales to his responsibilities. Endo will also serve on the Nissan executive committee.

- Kazumasa Katoh, senior manager, CEO/COO office, is appointed senior vice president, total customer satisfaction function

- Philippe Klein, senior vice president in Renault, is appointed senior vice president, CEO/COO office and corporate administration which includes the Alliance coordination office, security office and legal department.

- Toshiharu Sakai, corporate vice president, powertrain production engineering division is appointed senior vice president, production engineering division.

Regional Management Committees

- Colin Dodge, is appointed chairman, management committee for GOM, replacing Toshiyuki Shiga.

- Hidetoshi Imazu is appointed chairman, management committee for Europe, replacing Hiroto Saikawa.

- Itaru Koeda, executive vice president and co-chairman continues as chairman, management committee for affiliate companies and management committee for dealers (Japan)

- Hiroto Saikawa, executive vice president, purchasing is appointed chairman, management committee for the Americas, replacing Carlos Ghosn.

- Toshiyuki Shiga, chief operating officer, continues as chairman, management committee for Japan.

Corporate Vice Presidents

Five individuals will be newly appointed as corporate vice presidents and become corporate officers. Six corporate officers will retire or leave the company.

- Toshifumi Hirai is appointed corporate vice president, external and government affairs and intellectual asset management. Hirai was previously president of the Tokyo Commodity Exchange.

- Atsushi Hirose, plant manager of Yokohama plant, is appointed corporate vice president, powertrain production engineering division

- Takao Katagiri, president of Autech Japan, is appointed corporate vice president, marketing, Japan.

- Mark McNabb is appointed corporate vice president, global Infiniti business.

- Masaaki Nishizawa, general manager, human resources division, is appointed corporate vice president, global aftersales division, Japan aftersales division and GOM aftersales division.

Nissan Fellow

- Kimio Tomita, expert leader, powertrain engineering division, is appointed to the new position of Nissan Fellow, powertrain. The new designation of 'Nissan Fellow' recognizes an individual's expertise in a specific business area.

Officers retiring or leaving Nissan

- Takeshi Isayama, vice chairman, will retire

- Eiji Imai, senior vice president, quality, will retire

- Yusuke Sekiguchi, corporate vice president, marketing, Japan, will be proposed as President of Kanagawa Nissan (dealer)

- Hiroshi Moriya, corporate vice president, purchasing, will be proposed as senior vice president, Calsonic Kansei

- Shigeru Murata, corporate vice president, program director, will be proposed as Adviser, NIDEC TOSOK

Source: Nissan Europe

Posted by Frank at 8:36 AM

March 15, 2007

Chrysler Group Recognized by National Safety Council

- Sterling Heights Vehicle Test Center, Pacifica Advanced Product Design Center and Mopar's Memphis Parts Distribution Center receive the Safety Leadership Award

- Indiana Transmission Plant II, Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Group, Mopar's Warren and Atlanta Parts Distribution Centers receive the Industry Leader Award

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler Group's Sterling Heights (Mich.) Vehicle Test Center, Pacifica Advanced Product Design Center and Mopar's Memphis Parts Distribution Center (PDC) have received the 2006 Safety Leadership Award from the National Safety Council. The Safety Leadership Award recognizes companies that have achieved five consecutive "Perfect Record" years, operating for at least 60 consecutive months without incurring an occupational injury or illness resulting in days away from work.

Additionally, the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (AME) group -- comprised of the Sterling Heights (Mich.) Vehicle Test Center, Pilot Operations and Conner Avenue (Detroit) Assembly, received the National Safety Council's "Industry Leader Award" recognizing their accomplishment of lowest lost-work-day injury rates compared to industry peers. Indiana Transmission Plant II and Mopar's Warren and Atlanta PDCs also received the Industry Leader Award which is based on their 2005 performance.

"The Chrysler Group places a high priority on the safety of our employees. It is one of our core values and beliefs," said James Thomas, Director -- Health, Safety & Medical Operations, Chrysler Group. "National recognition from outside organizations such as the National Safety Council helps validate our efforts. We are in fact making significant strides."

The Chrysler Group is always looking for ways to ensure we have safe processes. As new products come to the market, potential issues pose a significant challenge in the manufacturing process. Early in the design stage, Advanced Manufacturing and the Advance Safety group work closely to identify hazards and provide appropriate protection measures. By looking at statistics from prior model years, the teams incorporate safety features into the manufacturing process. Additionally, an extensive focus is placed on ergonomics by ensuring work stations are designed properly for operator health and safety. These initiatives are tracked from the initial concept process though to final production.

"A great amount of safety emphasis is applied at the early stages to engineer processes properly," added Thomas. We want to ensure the appropriate level of safety protection and enhanced ergonomics are incorporated."

In addition to these honors, awards relating to 2006 safety performance will be released early next week by the National Safety Council. The Chrysler Group anticipates receiving a number of those awards.

The National Safety Council (NSC) is a nonprofit, nongovernmental, international public service organization dedicated to protecting life and promoting health. The NSC is a membership organization, founded in 1913 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1953. Members include more than 50,000 businesses, labor organizations, schools, public agencies, private groups and individuals. DaimlerChrysler has been a member of the NSC since 1922.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 3:41 PM

Gas Prices Show Wide Discrepancy from Coast to Coast

BURNSVILLE, Minn. -- A statewide average gasoline price in excess of $3 per gallon in California is not likely to be seen in many markets east of the Rocky Mountains this spring, said Gail Weinholzer, director of public affairs, AAA Minnesota/Iowa.

According to AAA’s daily, on-line AAA Fuel Gauge Report (www.aaafuelgaugereport.com), the nationwide price of self-serve regular gasoline is currently $2.545 per gallon; although the statewide average in California is $3.121 per gallon. This wide price discrepancy is primarily due to rising demand for fuel on the west coast, the region’s limited refining capacity and strict air quality standards, and its relative isolation from fuel supplies elsewhere in the nation, Weinholzer said.

This does not mean that prices will not continue to increase elsewhere in the country during the next few months, but motorists in these regions are not expected to see an average price of - or above - $3 per gallon.

Instead, AAA believes fuel prices will gradually increase as seasonal demand rises and fuel inventories come under now-normal pressure from the production of cleaner-burning, warm-weather fuel. At some point, however, prices will peak and then level off well-shy of $3, AAA believes.

Motorists concerned about a return of $3 per gallon gasoline this spring should remember that two unusual and extreme events pushed the national average price to that level in 2005 and 2006. The first event was Hurricane Katrina and the damage it did to critical energy infrastructure. The second was Israel’s invasion of Lebanon and the brief threat this posed to oil shipments from the Middle East. While today’s price is higher than one year ago, AAA said there are currently no reasons to expect a $3 national average price in 2007.

According to AAA, the price of self-serve regular gasoline was about twenty cents lower one year ago today at $2.363 per gallon.

AAA’s fuel price survey shows California has the highest statewide average gas price at $3.121 per gallon. Hawaii is next at $2.906, and Oregon’s price is $2.782 per gallon.

Wyoming has the lowest state-wide average gasoline price in the nation at $2.329 per gallon. South Carolina has the next lowest price at $2.352 per gallon, followed by Utah with an average gas price of $2.358 per gallon.

Nationwide, the price of self-serve, mid-grade gasoline averages $2.701 per gallon, an increase from $2.351 per gallon in the middle of last month, and up from $2.509 one year ago. Self-serve premium averages $2.799 per gallon nationwide; up from $2.437 one month ago. Premium averaged $2.559 per gallon at this time last year.

The national average prices for self-serve regular unleaded gasoline for AAA's mid-March survey for the last five years are: 2006, $2.363; 2005, $2.048; 2004, $1.720; 2003, $1.702; and 2002, $1.215.

AAA's Fuel Gauge Report is based on data from Oil Price Information Service, the nation's most comprehensive source of petroleum pricing information. AAA purchases the data and makes it available free on the Internet as a public service. Average daily prices for the nation, all 50 states and more than 250 localities are available for all grades of gasoline, making the site the most current and complete public source of fuel price information.

Posted by Frank at 3:38 PM

Not your childhood ice cream van

Hot... errr... cold on the tracks of our recent spotting of a British ice-cream truck for adults comes Heartschallenger. A speciality truck stocked with international ice cream, candy and toys, Heartschallenger is available for private events and birthday parties in Los Angeles, regularly drives down Sunset Boulevard, and is also known to pop up near clubs after closing hour.

Owner Leyla Safai, a former in-house designer at hip LA hotel The Standard, converted an old mail truck into a pink ice cream dream machine, complete with white unicorns and fairylike electronic music. Flavours on offer include Japanese mochi balls and whipped vanilla bars from Armenia. Dreamchallenger aims to open up (mobile) shop in New York soon. We can't vouch for the profitability of this business model, but nobody can deny that it sounds like a lot of fun ;-)

Website: www.heartschallenger.com
via: Springwise

Posted by Frank at 3:36 PM

More car sellers are doing it for themselves

Value of average deal soars as online marketplace takes off

The days of parking the ol’ Family Truckster at a Safeway lot with a Day-Glo orange “For Sale” sign in the window may be numbered. Increasingly, consumers are taking advantage of a growing online market to sell their cars themselves rather than accepting a lowball trade-in offer from a dealer.

The trend gained momentum last year as consumers found car dealers especially stingy with their trade-in offers because they were struggling to resell the fuel-thirsty SUVs, pickups and large sedans that consumers were dumping as gas prices soared.

By the end of the year private-party sales represented 34 percent of the used-car market, up from 18 percent a year earlier, according to a report by CNW Marketing Research Inc. That put individual sales on par with sales by franchised dealers and ahead of those by independent used car dealers.

Posted by Frank at 3:34 PM

GM Design Center Gallery Presents "Five"

WARREN, Mich. - General Motors and the Design Center Gallery, located at the Technical Center, are proud to present "Five", featuring the work of approximately 40 Design Center artists.

"Five" represents a celebration of Design's fifth year as a permanent gallery within the Design Center studios. All participating artists challenged their creative inspiration by designing art pieces that measure 5 inches by 5 inches, in at least two dimensions.

The show offers an outlet for these highly prolific artisans - of various disciplines including sculptors, designers, skilled trades and administration - and allows them to show their work in a gallery setting to an audience of their peers and guests. Styles presented this year range from the traditional to the modern. Media types include cast bronze, ceramic, wood, cement, acrylic and watercolor paintings, digital images, fabric, glass, found objects and photography.

"The amount of skill, creativity, and talent at Design Center is truly amazing," says Karysa Naeve, Sculptor - Large/Mid-Size Truck Interiors and Design Center Gallery organizer. "We are happy to have a space in which to recognize and celebrate the artistic spirit of our artists and craftspeople."

"Five" runs March 15 - April 26, 2007, with an opening reception on Thursday, March 15 from 3 - 5 p.m. at the second floor gallery. The Design Center Gallery is located inside the Design Center Administration building at 30100 Mound Road, Warren, Mich. on the Technical Center Campus. The Design Center Gallery has been open to the public since January 2003, celebrating the talented artists and craftspeople of GM Design Center, along with other local and international artists.

Posted by Frank at 2:29 PM

New York Auto Show Launches 2007 Members Express Club

Pre-Show Access, Express Entry, VIP Lounges, Free Movie Tickets, Discount Parking, City-Wide Benefits and More

NEW YORK -- Early access to the Show floor, VIP lounges, free movie tickets, discount parking, and discounts on Broadway shows are just some of the benefits of joining the New York International Automobile Show's exclusive Members Express Club.

"The Members Express Club is a unique club designed to provide red- carpet treatment for its members at the Show, as well as a range of unique and exclusive special discounts and services year round," said Show Director, Candida Romanelli.

"For the show visitor who would like to receive special perks while at the Show, the Members Express Club(TM) is the perfect answer. One benefit is being able to walk the Show floor an hour before it opens to the general public. It is a truly unique experience and one that I think will appeal to people who aren't used to waiting on line," added Romanelli.

For a special introductory annual membership fee of $20 for individuals and $30 for families (2 adults, 2 children), Club members will receive a membership card which gives them access to the following ever-growing list of benefits:

-- $5 off food/beverage at Jacob Javits -- Center Plate (excludes
Starbucks) during the NYIAS
-- Free Movie Passes -- provided by Regal Cinemas (they will be
distributed at the MEC VIP Lounge during the show)
-- Up to 35% of off select Broadway Shows including: Beauty & The
Beast, A Chorus Line and Mama Mia
-- 10% -- 35% off of NYC Attractions including: two-hour Circle Line
Cruise of NY, Madame Tussaud's and Lady Liberty Helicopter Tours
-- 20% off of Manhattan Mini Storage monthly
-- $5 off food/beverage at Jacob Javits Center Plate (excludes
Starbucks) during the Show
-- $2 off of Parking at select Edison Park Fast Facilities, during the
NYIAS-

427 W. 42nd Street bet 9th & 10th Aves
451 Ninth Avenue between 35th & 36th Streets
245 W. 28th Street between 7th & 8th Avenues
601 W. 41st Street between 11th Avenue & West Side Hwy
412 W. 33rd Street between 9th & 10th Avenues

-- 10% off furniture, mattresses, rugs and electrics at any Macys in
April
-- 87% off newsstand pricing for PC Magazine -- 25 issues for $19.97
-- 10% off @ any Oasis Day Spa location
-- NY Knicks/ NJ Nets Ticket sweepstakes at MEC Lounge during the show
-- 10% off of Dream Photo at the Show

Members Express Club(TM) card holders are encouraged to purchase Show tickets online before arriving at the Show in order to avoid waiting on line for tickets. Club members with e-tickets can walk straight onto the Show floor via exclusive entrances by showing their Members Express Club membership card. The fee for joining the Members Express Club(TM) does not include the cost of entry to the Show.

In addition to the large number of available perks during the Show's 10- day run, Members Express Club(TM) cardholders can enjoy year-round savings at venues throughout New York City including our express discount voucher service for Manhattan Mini Storage and discounts on selected services at Oasis Day Spa locations in Manhattan. For a complete list of services, vendors, discounts and benefits visit the Members Express Club(TM) homepage at www.autoshowNY.com. Club members will be notified of new services by email.

Members Express Club(TM) is a unique program and the latest in a long line of innovative and exciting industry firsts created by the 107-year old Show to surprise and excite the more than 1.2 million automobile enthusiasts that attend the Show each year.

The program will be launched this week with an email campaign to subscribers of the popular NYIAS e-newsletter "Overdrive" and online at www.autoshowNY.com.

Kicking off the springtime selling season, the 2007 New York International Auto Show will feature an impressive collection of cutting-edge design and remarkable innovation. More than four floors of displays from the world's automakers will feature the newest vehicles and futuristic concept cars. More than 1,000 cars and trucks will be on display at the Javits Center, filling 846,000 square feet of exhibit space. In addition, dozens of World and North American vehicle debuts are expected at the Show. NYIAS is owned and produced by the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association.

For more information, or to purchase tickets for the New York International Automobile Show online, visit www.autoshowNY.com.

Source: New York International Automobile Show

Posted by Frank at 10:53 AM

Towards a Cleaner Tomorrow With Diesel Particulate Filters

Frost & Sullivan to Host Quarterly Analyst Briefing on the Diesel Particulate Filters on 22 March 2007

LONDON -- Frost & Sullivan will host a conference call 22 March 2007 at 15.00 GMT to provide industry participants with an overview of the recently published study focusing on the Diesel Particulate Filters market.

As OEMs in the European market look towards equipping their diesel vehicles with DPFs, this study looks at the various technological choices they have and the outlook towards 2012. The study also features an analysis of supporting technologies which are likely to gain in importance as EURO emission norms tighten their grip on European OEMs and Suppliers.

Highlights of the briefing include: a DPF roadmap, analysis by technology, overview of supporting technologies and key conclusions.

Read free strategic insights at http://www.automotive.frost.com.

This briefing is based upon ongoing Diesel Particulate Filters market analysis and will benefit OEMs, suppliers and potential new entrants by discussing emerging trends and providing forward projections for the European DPF market. The report provides an insight into the dynamics guiding this market, and includes market challenges, drivers, restraints and avenues of opportunity for growth. The purpose of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of Diesel particulate Filters and its market revenue value.

"During the next two to three years, new participants are expected to enter the European DPF market, which is likely to increase the DPF volumes available and so help OEMs. Apart from increasing competition, this is also expected to eliminate any potential shortage of filters, as experienced recently," says Kaushik Madhavan, Industry Manager - Powertrain for Frost & Sullivan's Automotive & Transportation group.

Frost & Sullivan will hold this conference call at 15.00 GMT on 22 March 2007, which will provide industry participants with an outlook on the DPF Market. To participate, please e-mail Michael Banks at michael.banks@frost.com with the following information: your full name, company name, title, telephone number, e-mail address, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, a registration link will be e-mailed to you.

Source: Frost & Sullivan

Posted by Frank at 10:52 AM

MINI offers on-board, real time traffic data

2007 MINI Hardtops With Optional Navigation System Come Standard with Clear Channel Traffic Data

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- MINI USA announces that it is offering Clear Channel Radio's Total Traffic Network traffic data on navigation-equipped 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops beginning March production.

The service, which is integrated into the vehicle's optional navigation system, will come standard and free of charge for Clear Channel Radio's traffic service, which is now available in 44 markets across the U.S. The real time traffic information provided will allow MINI drivers to avoid potential delays due to traffic congestion or road closures

“The MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S are fun to drive, so it makes sense to offer Clear Channel’s real time traffic data service, allowing MINI drivers to avoid traffic tie-ups and keep on motoring,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President of MINI USA. “And adding traffic information standard with our navigation system means customers won’t have to pay recurring subscription fees to access the service.”

“We are excited that MINI is now offering our traffic data as part of its navigation system on select models,” said Jeff Littlejohn, Executive Vice President of Distribution Development for Clear Channel Radio. “MINI is part of a growing list of Total Traffic Network partners, including BMW that are able to provide customers with reliable, high-quality, real-time traffic improving navigation in some of the country’s most congested cities.”

About Clear Channel’s Total Traffic Network
Clear Channel Radio is the first broadcaster to launch a ground-breaking programming and technology service delivering real-time traffic data directly to vehicles, using its own network of reporters, traffic cameras, helicopters and airplanes – Total Traffic Network. Clear Channel’s Total Traffic Network now serves more than 125 metropolitan markets in three countries, including the United States, Mexico and New Zealand. Total Traffic Network delivers real-time traffic data via in-car or portable navigation systems, broadcast media, wireless and Internet-based services. For more information, please log on to www.realtimetraffic.net.

Customers currently using Total Traffic Network’s real-time reports include BMW of North America, Garmin International, Nextel, Verizon Wireless, Kenwood Electronics, Tom Tom Navigator GPS, MSN Autos, MapPoint, Cingular QPass, ATX, AAA, Rand McNally, Weatherbug, Microsoft SPOT, Siemens VDO, Mio Technology, and Cobra Electronics

Posted by Frank at 8:17 AM

Team Chevy Poised for Return of Impala SS to NASCAR

Rocket Science and Years of Safety Research Incorporated Into the Impala SS Bring Enthusiasm and Optimism for Race Car's Debut

DETROIT - After two years of conducting wind tunnel and track testing, developing scale models, submitting designs and collaborating with its teams, GM Racing is ready and optimistic for the Impala SS debut at Bristol Motor Speedway on March 25. The race will mark the first of 16 Car of Tomorrow races in 2007 as well as the return of Chevrolet's Impala nameplate to NASCAR competition.

"We feel comfortable with the position we are in due to the time, communication and resources that GM has invested to work closely with NASCAR on the rollout of the Impala SS," said Pat Suhy, GM Racing NASCAR group manager. "I think our integrated approach in working with NASCAR on its new-generation race car has been valuable in helping them meet their four key objectives and valuable for us, particularly in gaining increased manufacturer identity with the Impala SS."

When NASCAR's Research & Development Center began moving forward with its seven-year program for the Car of Tomorrow, it set out to achieve four objectives. NASCAR's new-generation race car would include additional safety features, provide increased competition, reduce costs and incorporate more manufacturer identity.

Since March of 2005 when initial manufacturer meetings began, GM Racing has worked hand-in-hand with NASCAR to help develop the Car of Tomorrow and to help achieve these objectives. Extensive wind tunnel and on-track testing done by GM allowed GM Racing engineers to assist with safety and aerodynamic changes to the race cars as well as provide recommendations on the new wing and splitter. GM also enlisted the help of its design studio which allowed for greater input on design cues, resulting in the Impala SS race car more closely resembling the Impala SS production vehicle.

"Chevrolet stylists were actually in the wind tunnel with our racing team working with modeling clay to shape the front end of the Impala SS race car," said Suhy. "In working with NASCAR early on, we were able to jointly determine how much real estate we could use for manufacturer identity. I think those early efforts really paid off and it is evident in the additional manufacturer cues on the Impala SS compared to the current race cars."

GM Racing is also offering its support with the new template process that is required with the change-over to new race cars. NASCAR recently displayed the new inspection process in Bristol. While inspection still focuses on exterior body measurements and templates, the new process has multiple templates to be applied to a car at the same time.

"One unknown for Bristol is how NASCAR is going to be applying the templates," said Suhy. "As NASCAR and the teams continue to work on a gold standard for the template process, GM Racing is trying to help in any way we can. Members of our team who understand the templates and the bodies are working behind-the-scenes with NASCAR and the teams to make sure nothing is left to chance when we arrive in Bristol."

Chevy Drivers Rely on Momentum and Brand's Racing Heritage for Impala SS Debut

GM Racing engineers are encouraged with the performance of the Impala SS after Team Chevy drivers posted impressive speeds and had favorable feedback of the new Chevy model during the Car of Tomorrow test sessions in Bristol, Tenn. on Feb. 28 and March 1. In the second and third sessions, Chevy drivers testing the Impala SS posted eight of the top-10 fastest lap times.

"The Bristol test went very well for Chevrolet," said Suhy. "All of our teams have put a huge amount of effort into the Impala SS development through track testing starting as early as the middle of last year. I think it showed up on the track in Bristol. While we can't say for certain how the Impala SS will perform on race day, our observations from the test session indicate that our Chevy teams will continue to be successful with the Impala SS."

Denny Hamlin, driver of the No. 11 FedEx Impala SS, sat on top of the charts following both Feb. 28 test sessions after recording the fastest speed of the day. Hamlin also credits the years of extensive preparations invested to prepare for the Impala SS debut.

"Our team has done a whole lot of homework on this program the last couple of years," said Hamlin. "I am pretty happy about where we are standing because not only are we fast but we are really good on the long runs and that really matters here. I am definitely excited to come back."

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. in the No. 8 Budweiser Chevy also commended the current performance of the Impala SS.

"It (the Impala SS) actually drives better than our other cars do here (at Bristol)," said Earnhardt. "The car is an inch wider. It has a little more grip. I am really pleasantly surprised really.

"It has exceeded my expectations at this point and how the car is driving... I enjoy the way my car drives. I think we will get it even better. A lot of guys are running really good which gives me promise that it will be OK."

Team Chevy drivers will also benefit from the racing heritage of Chevrolet and the Impala brand as they prepare to debut the new race car. Chevrolet is the most successful nameplate in NASCAR with 598 NASCAR Cup victories, 23 driver titles and 30 manufacturer championships while the Impala boasts numerous stock cars wins and back-to-back NASCAR championships.

After introducing the Impala in 1957 (as a 1958 model) drivers immediately took to the car with Bob Welborn winning the 1959 Daytona 500. In 1960 Rex White won the NASCAR Cup championship and Ned Jarrett followed that up with a second consecutive NASCAR title for the Impala in 1961. Stock-car legend Junior Johnson also ran the famous white No. 3 Impala in 1963 collecting seven wins, 12 top fives, 13 top 10s and nine pole starts in 32 races.

Team Chevy Prepares for Life After Bristol

With the Impala SS making its debut at short tracks and road course events in 2007, GM Racing engineers are already looking ahead to the mile-and-a-half tracks where aerodynamics play a significant role in on-track performance. The findings are also being communicated to NASCAR in an effort to help share ideas that have already been researched and tested by GM Racing.

"Since the mile-and-a-half tracks are very aerodynamic dependent, we're trying to find ways to balance the car even better and give the teams a little more adjustability," said Suhy. "Right now we have full-size wind tunnel programs, scale-model programs and CFDs (Computational Fluid Dynamics) being developed to find that balance and adjustability. We're looking out for our best interests but if there are areas that are potentially affecting all of our teams, we review those issues with NASCAR as well. That way NASCAR can consider our input and determine if there is a series-wide solution for all competitors when the issue may not be on their radar yet if enough testing hasn't been done or if teams haven't had the opportunity to test on track."

Posted by Frank at 8:14 AM

Five Germany Premieres from Porsche

Leipzig Motor Show (AMI) 2007

Stuttgart/Leipzig -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany, is bringing five new models to the 17th Auto Mobil International motor show (AMI) in Leipzig: from April 14 to 22, 2007, the Porsche Cayenne, the 911 GT3 RS, the 911 Targa 4S, the Cayman and the RS Spyder sports prototype will all be celebrating their German trade fair premieres.

An appearance at AMI is a real home game for the Cayenne, since it is manufactured at the Porsche factory just a few kilometers down the road. The Cayenne (213 kW/290 bhp), Cayenne S (283 kW/385 bhp) and Cayenne Turbo (368 kW/500 bhp) model variants will be on display.

All three variants now have gasoline direct injection and, despite their high engine outputs, use up to 15 percent less gasoline under normal driving conditions than their predecessors. CO2 emissions have been reduced by the same amount. Moreover, the new generation of engine in the Cayenne enables a blend of up to 25 percent ethanol. Since ethanol is a biofuel derived from renewable raw materials, this again helps to improve the Cayenne’s CO2 credentials.

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS quickens the pulse of all sports fans. This purist variant of the GT3 serves as the basis model for the GT3 RSR racecar. Its extraordinarily high-revving engine draws 305 kW (415 bhp) from a 3.6-liter displacement. The 911 Targa 4S creates a very special, airy sense of space. Its glass roof opens up to half a meter wide in just seven seconds, regardless of driving speed. All-wheel drive and the 3.8-liter engine with an output of 261 kW (355 bhp) – as seen on the Carrera S – ensure a sporty drive.

Another first for German trade fairs is the Porsche Cayman. This two-seater sports coupé is powered by a 2.7-liter flat-six engine that produces 180 kW (245 bhp) and complements the more powerful Cayman S.

The RS Spyder sports prototype, which is to feature in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), will be a real treat for motorsport fans. The Porsche works drivers hope to defend their ALMS title in the P2 class with this carbon-fiber racer, which was heavily reengineered over the winter. The 3.4-liter V8 engine featured on the RS Spyder produces 370 kW (503 bhp).

For the first time, the Porsche factory in Leipzig is to be represented with its own counter on the exhibition site. Here visitors to the show can book factory tours and rides in, or drives of, a Porsche on the factory racetrack, or just find out more about Porsche in Leipzig as a whole. Two webcams, to be found at www.porsche.com, will provide live footage of the Porsche exhibition stand.

The Porsche exhibition stand will be located in Hall 5. On a surface measuring 836 square meters, the Stuttgart-based manufacturer will have its whole model selection on show, alongside the above-mentioned new arrivals. The 130,000 square meter motor show will be open every day from 9 till 6. Somewhere in the region of 290,000 visitors are expected in Leipzig.

Posted by Frank at 8:10 AM

New NASCAR Race Car Influenced By GM Racing Safety Research

Years of Racing Crash Research by GM Racing Engineers Played Vital Role in Creation of Car of Tomorrow, Appearing in 16 Nextel Cup Races in 2007

DETROIT - NASCAR's Car of Tomorrow - Impala SS in Chevy guise - is the new race car slated to replace the version currently competing in the Nextel Cup Series and it was primarily developed for the improvements it offers in terms of driver safety.

Over the last 15 years, GM, a longstanding and successful manufacturer in NASCAR with its Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS, has directed a significant amount of attention towards driver safety throughout all of its racing programs. The research GM Racing conducted over the years and the resulting data obtained played a major role in developing many of the safety advances that the new race car will feature.

A front-runner in the field of automotive safety, GM first began researching racing crashes in 1992. The manufacturer introduced crash recorders to the IndyCar series a year later and also developed a rear crash attenuator (a type of absorber) and head padding for the open-wheel series cars. By 1998 GM had started to research crashes in stock-car racing but the death of Dale Earnhardt at Daytona in 2001 became the catalyst to unite NASCAR - which had its own crash research program - with GM and the other manufacturers to develop a coordinated safety program. Soon after Earnhardt's death, NASCAR began research on a new race car design with GM taking the lead on driver restraint systems.

"Even before we started working with stock cars, we learned from IndyCar crashes that the seat was one of the most important components in keeping a race car driver safe," said Tom Gideon, safety manager at GM Racing. "So one of the first things we worked on in our stock-car safety program was seat and head restraint development. We also looked at the benefits of moving the driver's seat inward."

Gideon and other GM engineers built two safety cars, one for NASCAR and the other for the now-defunct ASA series that were used to demonstrate moving the seat while adding shoulder and head support to the seat. The shift linkage was moved from the left side to the right side of the transmission - allowing the seat to be moved inward a precious few inches.

"The typical stock-car seat of the late '90s had a rear head pad and rib support but no considerable shoulder or head support," said Gideon. "(NASCAR driver) Randy Lajoie was making seats in the late 90s that offered some shoulder support so we had him make seats for us with head and shoulder support. Those seats became the beginning of the rigid seat."

GM conducted sled testing of the new seat (which simulates crash situations to show the movement of shoulder and head) and shared the information with other manufacturers. The resultant seat - now in use - was better than any previous version found in stock cars, a fact since validated by recent accidents from which drivers have walked away unscathed. The new rigid seats will have specifications provided by NASCAR so that seat makers can easily design to those specifications.

Another safety innovation, while not new to racing, is now being introduced to the Nextel Cup Series because of research done as early as 1998 by GM. The six-point safety harness, already used in open-wheel racing, replaces the five-point harnesses used up until the end of 2006.

"The difference between the six-point and the five-point harnesses are below the waist, but the benefits from the six-point are actually seen in the chest area," said Gideon. "The five-point has a single crotch strap. Six-points have two straps that come from the lap belt and wrap around the legs, connecting under the driver. As the driver moves forward in a frontal impact, the pelvis is restrained better with the six-point. By restraining the pelvis, there is less energy for the shoulder harness to absorb, keeping the chest from being compressed.

"For example, in a crash at 30 miles an hour you get two inches of chest compression with a five-point but only one inch of compression with a six-point. As a result you see fewer sternum fractures and rib fractures than you would have with a five-point harness."

Other safety improvements that will be seen on the Impala SS and other new Nextel Cup race cars are an increased side window size for quick egress in an emergency. The new cars are also larger: the roof is two inches higher and the cockpit four inches wider while roll bars are moved away from the driver in an effort to give the driver more room in regards to impact penetration.

The car's impact penetration resistance has been improved by adding a steel plate over the door bars and energy absorbing foam in the formerly empty space between the door skin and door bars. The upper frame rail on the left hand side of the car has also been strengthened to offer more protection on the driver's side. Additional improvements include a steel floorboard underneath the driver and an enclosed 360-degree steel tunnel to contain the driveshaft should it become disengaged, thereby preventing the possibility of flying metal. The fuel cell has also been altered; its capacity is now four and a half gallons less while the thickness of the steel that surrounds it has been doubled from .031 inches to .062 inches.

Finally, the engine exhaust system has been routed to exit underneath the right side of the car to keep heat away from the driver, in an effort to prevent driver heat exhaustion.

"Auto manufacturers are not known for sharing development secrets," said Gideon. "But at GM, we've shared all of the results of our safety research with NASCAR and the other competing manufacturers. We place the highest emphasis on the safety of our drivers and those we compete against and it shows with the Impala SS and the Car of Tomorrow concept in general."

Posted by Frank at 8:01 AM

Audi acquires extra production capacity

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Audi needs additional production capacity if it is to continue growing vigorously over the next few years. To that end, AUDI AG is immediately assuming management responsibility for the Brussels plant. This is the crux of a letter of intent signed today by the company management and the Belgian trade unions in Ingolstadt.

The priority for Audi is to enhance productivity at its existing German locations, while at the same time safeguarding employment. Audi already set the standard in April 2005 with the agreement entitled "Audi's Future" for the German locations; this gave AUDI AG's workforce a long-term guarantee of employment.

"2006 was the eleventh successive record-breaking year for Audi in respect of vehicle sales, revenue and earnings. Profitable growth is the basic ingredient of our corporate strategy. And it is a strategy that is working. We are therefore delighted to be able to add to our capacity through the Brussels plant. It will equip us for continued, vigorous growth over the next few years. We intend to build the new compact Audi model at the Brussels plant," explained Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG.

"The Brussels plant now has the opportunity to become part of Audi's success story. This has all been made possible thanks to the agreement to cut personnel costs by 20 percent. We are using the outstandingly qualified workforce as our basis. It is therefore particularly pleasing that, with 2,200 employees, many more jobs will be preserved than originally envisaged," declared Dr. Werner Widuckel, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG with responsibility for Human Resources. Widuckel added: "The agreement is now valid without any qualification, and will be implemented in every respect."

The framework conditions for a new general collective agreement are laid down in the letter of intent. This declares that the new, compact Audi model is to be built in Brussels from the end of 2009/start of 2010, after the establishment of competitive pay and cost structures. For a transitional period – from 2007 to 2009 – the Audi A3 is to be built in Brussels as well as various Volkswagen models. It was already successfully built there between autumn 2004 and the end of 2005. The plant's future will be safeguarded thanks to the hub principle for products of the Audi and VW brands. Jobs can then be protected long-term at the Brussels plant.

Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG, declared: "We are looking to the future in a positive frame of mind. The General Works Council and Audi's employees are confident of rising to the forthcoming challenges. We know and have respect for our new colleagues in Brussels. Together, we now aim to take Audi forward and achieve the targets we are striving for: growth and job security."

"Audi attaches importance not just to competitiveness – among other things based on flexible working hours involving working time accounts and reduced labor costs per hour – but also to the introduction of attractive tools such as employee profit-sharing that incorporates the criteria of productivity, quality, costs per vehicle and attendance figures," continued Board Member for Human Resources Dr. Werner Widuckel. He added that Audi was looking to boost its attractiveness as an employer with health management measures and ergonomic working conditions. "Those also include the introduction of teamwork within the Audi production system, as well as training programs and a continuous improvement process," explained Audi Board Member for Production Frank Dreves. "If the proposed restructuring measures are implemented at the Brussels plant, those production operations will have a chance to play a leading role in the car industry. Following the restructuring, the Brussels plant should fulfil the criterion "best in class" in the Volkswagen Group," added Dreves.

Representatives of Audi's Board of Management, the plant manager, the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Brussels and the unions had drawn up the accompanying agreement at the end of February. In a referendum, over 76 percent of the workforce had then voted in favor of it. Plant manager Norbert Steingräber stated: "That is a clear vote in its favor. The Brussels plant is determined to emerge from the restructuring process stronger and with a secure future ahead of it."

Audi sold around 905,000 cars in 2006. It aims to increase this figure to 1.5 million by 2015. It is embarking on an investment program worth 11.8 billion euros over the next five years as further evidence of its ambitions. The model range is set to grow from a current 22 models to 40.

Posted by Frank at 7:55 AM

Honda Aircraft Company Advances Toward Production of HondaJet

Three North American Aviation Companies Become Key Suppliers

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., (HACI) today announced agreements with GKN Aerospace - Alabama, Avcorp Industries, Inc., and Garmin International Inc., as major component suppliers for the HondaJet advanced light jet, to be produced1 at a state-of-the-art plant in Greensboro, North Carolina.

GKN, of Tallassee, Alabama, will supply the fuselage structural sub-assembly; Garmin, of Olathe, Kansas, will supply a state-of-the-art avionics system specifically tailored for HondaJet; and Avcorp, of Delta, British Columbia, Canada, will supply HondaJet's wing structural sub-assembly.

"We are pleased to be entering into collaboration with some of North America's top aviation industry suppliers, as we continue to focus on developing an innovative aircraft of the absolute highest quality for our customers," said Michimasa Fujino, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. "The sourcing of these key components from suppliers in the U.S. and Canada is consistent with Honda's philosophy of producing products close to the customer."

Honda Aircraft Company on February 9 announced plans to establish its world headquarters and jet plant in Greensboro, North Carolina, with construction of new facilities at Piedmont Triad International airport. Scheduled to open late this year, the 215,000 square foot headquarters will be the center of all activity related to HondaJet, including type certification, all sales, marketing and service support activity, and continued research and development activities. HACI expects to employ more than 300 associates at its headquarters and manufacturing facilities once the plant reaches full production.

The HACI production facility, to be built adjacent to the headquarters, will handle production of HondaJet, including final assembly of all structural components and parts, aircraft system assembly and installation, completion of the interior, and painting. The Greensboro production facility is scheduled to begin deliveries to customers in 2010.

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. and HondaJet

Greensboro-based Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., is responsible for the continued development, certification and production of HondaJet, as well as all marketing, sales and service support.

HondaJet, Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft, lives up to the company's reputation for superior fuel efficiency, delivering 30-35 percent better cruising fuel efficiency than comparable jets, along with a class-topping cruise speed of 420 knots (450 mph) and a more spacious cabin with room for up to eight people. All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations.

The decision to commercialize HondaJet was announced in July 2006, followed by the August 4, 2006, establishment of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. The company has received more than 100 customer orders for the $3.65 million HondaJet since its launch, October 17, 2006. The HondaJet production facility will become Honda's seventeenth major manufacturing plant in North America, including two currently under construction in Indiana and in Ontario, Canada.

Posted by Frank at 7:53 AM

GM Racing Developed NASCAR Impala SS in Virtual Wind Tunnel

Computational Fluid Dynamics Brings Rocket Science to NASCAR

DETROIT - The winds of change are blowing at gale force in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series. The imminent debut of the Chevrolet Impala SS "Car of Tomorrow" and the impending introduction of GM Racing's all-new R07 small-block V-8 racing engine are signposts that point the way to a new direction in technology in America's most popular racing series.

One of the most powerful implements in GM Racing's toolbox is Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) - a mathematical simulation of the airflow around a vehicle. This emerging technology is influencing the design of both racing and production automobiles. CFD played a key role in GM Racing's analysis and development of a racing version of the Impala SS, the new-generation NASCAR race car that will make its competition debut in Bristol, Tenn., on March 25.

"The best way to describe CFD is a wind tunnel in a computer," explained Kevin Bayless, GM Racing oval track chassis/aero program manager. "CFD is a simulation that predicts the aerodynamic forces acting on a vehicle using computational methods rather than physical measurements. CFD allows engineers and racing teams to evaluate the effects of aerodynamic changes quickly on a computer screen rather than in a conventional wind tunnel."

First developed for aerospace and defense applications, CFD migrated to the civilian sector as supercomputers became available to run the complex programs.

"The CFD software requires a supercomputer because the number of calculations is immense," Bayless noted. "For example, our aerodynamic models typically have more than 10 million discrete data points that are used to calculate the forces. It really is rocket science."

The price of admission to this elevated level of technology is high, but the benefits of CFD are substantial. The sophisticated software makes it possible to "see" the invisible movement of air over a body.

"CFD allows us to visualize the flow to understand what the air is doing and where the aerodynamic forces are being generated," said Bayless. "That's simply not possible with a model or a full-size vehicle in a wind tunnel. CFD also allows us to test aerodynamics without a physical model, which can be helpful in the early stages of a design. We can analyze and compare various alternatives before actually building a prototype vehicle."

As the Car of Tomorrow becomes NASCAR's race car of today, the Impala SS will take center stage as Chevrolet's high-profile entry in Nextel Cup competition. CFD played a prominent role in reinforcing the identity of Chevy's new on-track representative.

"Although the Car of Tomorrow is highly regulated, it's not a spec race car," Bayless noted. "As a manufacturer, Chevrolet was able to define many of the details that separate the Impala SS from our competitors' cars. The headlights, grille, portions of the hood, and the tail were areas where GM Racing was able to incorporate Impala SS styling cues and brand identity. These areas are now fixed as part of the NASCAR Impala SS package."

The Impala SS race car's aerodynamics differ significantly from the Monte Carlo SS that has been the mainstay of Chevrolet's NASCAR program. GM engineers employed CFD to gain insights into the effects of the new body shape, front splitter, and adjustable rear wing on aerodynamic performance.

"NASCAR specifications require the Impala SS to be wider and taller than the Monte Carlo SS that it is replacing, so its frontal area is larger and its aerodynamic drag is approximately 10 percent greater," Bayless commented. "Initially the Impala SS will have about 15 percent less downforce than the Monte Carlo SS, which has been highly refined over the years. The change from a spoiler to an adjustable rear wing appears to reduce turbulence in the wake of the car, so when two cars are running nose-to-tail, the less turbulent air behind the first car should alleviate some of the aerodynamic push experienced by the trailing car."

Although CFD is a powerful engineering tool, it is not a replacement for conventional wind tunnels and track testing.

"The computing time required to run CFD programs is a limitation even with a supercomputer," Bayless noted. "A team can run through more tests in a day in a wind tunnel than can be done with CFD. At this point in its development, CFD supplements the testing that's done in wind tunnels and on race tracks. We share the information that GM Racing obtains through CFD with the Chevy teams. Given the level of competition in NASCAR today, it's vital that every team takes advantage of every available resource."

Posted by Frank at 7:49 AM

Nissan's New Corporate Facility to Be Called Nissan Americas

Structural steel erection in progress at the construction site

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- “Nissan Americas” will be the name of Nissan’s new corporate facility in Franklin, Tenn., the company announced today. The Management Committee-Americas oversees and leads functions and programs throughout North, Central and South America to maximize performance and profit.

Construction for the Nissan Americas facility, which represents a capital investment in excess of $100 million, began in June 2006. Occupancy is planned for mid-2008. The building is located about 20 miles south of downtown Nashville.

“The construction project is on schedule, and the footprint of the building is now visible,” says Rob Traynham, Nissan North America director of Security, Flight Operations and Facilities. “Nissan Americas will be a striking addition to the business landscape in Franklin, but, more importantly, it will be at the center of value creation for all our operations.”

Currently at the construction site in Franklin, the building pad has been completed. The drilled pier foundations for the office facility and adjacent garage have been completed. Preparation of the site roads and installation of underground utilities have begun. Two of the building’s four elevator towers have been completed.

Erection of the first steel has begun; during construction, about 3,400 tons of structural steel will be used. The steel will be erected in four sequences, beginning at the north end of the building. In addition to the structural steel, 575 tons of reinforcing steel will be used, and 23,000 cubic yards of concrete will be placed. Over the course of the project, 113,000 cubic yards of earth will be moved at the 50-acre site.

Nissan Americas will comprise 10 office floors and an underground level with two salons for special reviews of new models or prototype vehicles. The building will reach a height of approximately 150 feet and will encompass a total floor space of 460,000 square feet. An adjacent parking garage will accommodate 1,135 vehicles, and a 10,000-square-foot employee fitness center is being constructed on the western side of the parking garage structure.

The facility has been designed to provide a spacious and productive work environment for employees. Inside, large, alternating atriums with open stairways will connect the main floors. Each floor’s open environment will also include informal meeting areas, and video conferencing centers will encourage cross-functional collaboration among Nissan employees in North America or in other parts of the world.

Skanska USA Building Inc. is the construction manager of the Nissan Americas project. Gresham, Smith and Partners is responsible for the design and engineering work for the facility.

Posted by Frank at 7:40 AM

Garmin Introduces Additions to the nuvi Navigator Family

Out-of-the-box Simplicity and Savings

HANNOVER, Germany -- Garmin International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd., today announced the nuvi 200, nuvi 250 and nuvi 270. This new family of entry-level GPS devices offers budget savvy consumers the benefit of a premium in-dash system at a fraction of the cost. As members of the nuvi family, these products carry the elegant styling and industry leading ease-of-use that has become the hallmark of Garmin's nuvi product line.

"The nuvi family has taken the world by storm because of its extraordinary features and sleek look," said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of worldwide sales. "The nuvi 200-series is destined to be another grand slam thanks to its ingenious design and low price point. This is the ideal out-of- the-box, entry-level car navigation system."

The ultra-slim nuvi 200-series makes using a GPS device easy for anyone. The nuvi's new design incorporates an internal GPS antenna that makes it thinner and even easier to mount in a car. The intuitive "where to?" and "view map" welcome screen allows users to quickly find a specific street address or establishment's name, or search for a destination by category. Turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions then guide the driver to their destination. If they miss a turn along the route, the nuvi automatically recalculates a route and gets them back on track.

Those familiar with the "travel kit" feature available on premium nuvis will appreciate the nuvi 200-series' built-in picture viewer, calculator, currency converter, unit converter and world clock. These new navigators are also compatible with Garmin's line of rich content such as the Garmin Travel Guide(TM) and Garmin SaversGuide(R). For additional security, Garmin has included the Garmin Lock(TM), an innovative patent pending theft prevention system that disables the unit from performing any functions until the user types in a specific 4-digit PIN or takes the unit to a predetermined secure location.

Garmin has also added the ability for customers to augment the preloaded maps with custom points of interest (POI's) from third parties such as school zones and safety cameras. The European versions of the nuvi 200-series come preloaded with speed camera information.

About the size of a deck of cards, the nuvi's focal point is its bright 3.5-inch (diagonal) touchscreen. The unit's only button is an on/off slider bar, which may be locked to avoid being turned on or off accidentally. The nuvi also has a convenient SD card slot for expandable memory.

The nuvi 200, nuvi 250 and nuvi 270 are expected to be available in April at an MSRP of $399.99, $499.99 and $599.99, respectively. The nuvi 200 includes preloaded detailed mapping of the contiguous United States (lower 48), Hawaii and Puerto Rico. The nuvi 250 has preloaded detailed mapping of the entire United States (including Alaska and Hawaii), Canada and Puerto Rico. For the ultimate ease in traveling abroad, the nuvi 270 includes preloaded detailed maps of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and over 30 countries in Europe. All map data is provided by NAVTEQ(TM) -- a world leader in premium-quality mapping -- and includes approximately six million POI's.

Garmin will also offer nuvi 200-series products with regional specific coverage for Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and Brazil. The regional coverage for Europe includes UK/Ireland, Nordics, Belgium/Netherlands/Luxembourg, France, Italy/Greece, Spain/Portugal, and Germany/Switzerland/Austria/Czech Republic.

The nuvi 200, nuvi 250 and nuvi 270 include a vehicle suction cup mount, vehicle power cable, dashboard disk, and owner's reference manual. For more information, visit http://www.garmin.com/ or http://www.garmin.com/nuvi200 .

Source: Garmin Ltd.

Posted by Frank at 7:39 AM

Hummer fraud investigation spreads to Missouri and overseas

OMAHA, Neb. -- The Nebraska State Patrol's investigation of more than 200 Hummers sold with phony titles by a dealer here has spread to a broker in Missouri who bought the SUVs and overseas where most of them wound up.

Investigators searched the broker's businesses in Chillicothe, Mo., last week and seized paper and electronic records related to the car sales, according to documents filed in Livingston County Court.

Those involved could face felony charges for falsifying vehicle titles in Nebraska, and General Motors Corp. will likely want to recover the more than $500,000 in unearned incentives it paid out. Federal charges may also be a possibility because the vehicles and money involved crossed state lines, and most of the Hummers were ultimately exported.

Posted by Frank at 7:28 AM

Ford To Stamp Everything But Blades Of Grass At Cowboys Stadium

FORD MOTOR HAS SIGNED A multi-year, integrated partnership with the Dallas Cowboys that gives Ford "official vehicle" status with the Cowboys and puts the Ford name and products front and center in the new Cowboys stadium.

Starting in 2009, when the stadium is completed, Ford will have interactive exhibits for attendees and signage visible to television audiences. As part of the deal, Ford also gets unprecedented access and sponsorship of the new Cowboys' training camp in San Antonio this year.

The deal, extending Ford's 15-year sponsorship of the Dallas Cowboys NFL football team through 2018, centers on a new stadium that will have a retractable roof and a seating capacity for 80,000 during games and 100,000 for other events. The Cowboys training camp in San Antonio, relocated from southern California this year, will be renamed the "Built Ford Tough" training camp. Texas Ford dealers will be able to offer fans promotions, dangling meet-and-greets with players and coaches, and access to the camp.

Posted by Frank at 7:23 AM

General Motors reports quarterly profit

General Motors Corp. reported a net profit on Wednesday of $950 million for the fourth quarter of 2006 due to cost cuts, higher automotive revenues and a gain on the sale of its finance division. It was the automaker’s first profit since the first quarter of 2006.

Posted by Frank at 7:23 AM

GM launching March incentive program

General Motors is launching an incentive program today to spur March sales of certain Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick, GMC and Saturn vehicles. The program starts March 15 and runs through April 3. GM's Cadillac, Hummer and Saab brands are not included. The program offers consumers 0 percent financing for up to 36 months and reduced-rate financing for up to 72 months on certain vehicles, GM says.

Posted by Frank at 7:19 AM

Smart Parent Involvement Key in Preventing Teen Driving Deaths

New Allstate Foundation Survey Suggests Parents Unknowingly Contribute to the Problem

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- A recent national survey conducted by The Allstate Foundation shows that while parents know the No. 1 killer of teens is car crashes caused by teen drivers, the majority of parents do not understand the main causes of these crashes or may not be aware of laws that are intended to protect their teens.

The survey also found that although parents agree they must play a significant role in preparing their teens to drive, many parents still: delay safe driving conversations with their teens until shortly before licensure, think their teens are immune to the risk of car crashes, allow their teens to drive or ride in dangerous conditions and model unsafe behavior behind the wheel.

The national survey of more than 1,000 parents of teens ages 15 to 17 features an in-depth look at parents' knowledge of the teen driving issue and the roles they play in preparing their teens for this important milestone, from training to after licensure.

"The Allstate Foundation research provides a unique understanding of how parents are impacting the teen driving epidemic and reveals insights into approaches parents can take to protect their teens as drivers and passengers," according to Allan F. Williams, retired chief researcher for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

"The Allstate Foundation is committed to helping parents prepare their teens to drive and protect them once they're on the road," said George Ruebenson, president of Allstate Protection. "By sharing these survey findings, we hope parents will be more informed and play an active role with their teens and other parents to ultimately make our communities safer and stronger."

Meaning Well, But Misinformed

According to the survey, nearly 50 percent of parents polled think crashes involving teens result from drunk driving. In reality, the majority of crashes are caused by driver error, speeding and driving with distractions. Additionally, while most parents surveyed feel prepared to teach their teens the rules of the road, 60 percent say they have never heard of or are only vaguely aware of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws. Intended to protect novice drivers while they are learning, typical provisions of GDL laws include an extended supervised driving period and restrictions on late-night driving and driving with teen passengers during the initial months of licensure.

Simple Parenting Strategies

"As parents, we need to show our teens from an early age the importance of safe driving by modeling good behavior and treating driving as a privilege," said parenting expert Laurence Steinberg, Ph.D., professor of Psychology at Temple University, author of "The 10 Basic Principles of Good Parenting" and "Your Adolescent: A Parent's Guide for Ages 10 to 20," and an Allstate Foundation Teen Driving Program Advisory Board member. "Practicing what we preach, discussing the issue regularly with our teens and talking with our peers are simple actions parents can take that will go a long way in keeping teens safer on the road."

Talk with your child early and often: The survey showed most parents do not talk to their teens about safe driving until a year or less before their teens receive a permit -- long after their teens' attitudes toward driving have developed.

-- When their teens are 12 or younger, 77 percent of parents discuss the
dangers of smoking, 72 percent discuss the dangers of taking drugs and
70 percent discuss peer pressure. However, only 27 percent of parents
discuss safe driving when their children are 12 or younger.

-- Fifty-four percent of parents surveyed first talked about safe driving
with their children at the ages of 14 and 15.

Shake the "not my teen" syndrome: The survey found that parents think their own teens are immune to the risk of a crash -- when in reality, the issue affects everyday teens in everyday situations.

-- While two-thirds of parents polled think teens in general are bad
drivers, 88 percent trust their own teens to drive safely.

-- Fifty-five percent believe if their teens were in a crash, it would be
someone else's fault.

Restrict dangerous driving situations: Many parents allow their teens to drive in dangerous situations within the first few months after getting a license, increasing the likelihood of a deadly crash.

-- Ninety percent of respondents permit their teens to drive after dark,
even though teens are twice as likely to crash at night (9 p.m. to 6
a.m.) as during the day.

-- Seventy-seven percent allow their teens to drive with friends, even
though the chance of crashing increases in proportion to the number of
teen passengers in a car.

-- Sixty-nine percent of parents surveyed allow their teens to drive in
bad weather.

Practice what you preach: Parents are not modeling good behavior behind the wheel when their children are in the car.

-- Ninety-nine percent of parents polled said it is helpful for their
teens to see good driving behavior from them and their teens' other
parent.

-- Seventy-one percent of parents polled have talked on a cell phone
while driving with their teens in the car.

-- Sixty-two percent have operated a radio, MP3 player, game or other
device while driving.

-- More than a quarter of parents have broken a law while driving with
their teen in the car (e.g., running a red light or stop sign, illegal
U-turn, etc.).

Exert positive adult peer pressure: Parents are influenced, for better or worse, by several factors -- especially other parents.

-- Almost half of the parents surveyed said other, more lenient parents
make it difficult to control their own teens' driving privileges.

-- Nearly 40 percent said they often disagree with their teens' other
parent about the best way to establish and enforce driving ground
rules for their teens.

-- While 60 percent of parents talk with their peers about teen driving,
40 percent do not, demonstrating an opportunity to increase peer-to-
peer dialogue.

A Mother's Story

In 2005, Patricia Kelley of Chicago lost her 17-year-old son Daniel in a car crash. Late at night, Dan and another teen were killed when the newly- licensed driver they were riding with over-corrected, hit a curb and crashed into a pole. The driver and a third passenger escaped with serious injuries. Dan had just met the driver, who had received a convertible days earlier as a holiday gift. Kelley had not allowed her son to get a license, since driving was a privilege he had yet to earn.

"There's no easy way to protect teen drivers or passengers," said Kelley. "But, we can begin by making sure our kids know the risks of being a driver or a passenger. Parents need to work together to establish and enforce driving rules that protect all teens in our community."

For more information on how parents can talk to their teens and other parents about this issue, engage their community to create a culture of safe driving or to view the full Allstate Foundation parent survey, visit http://www.protectteendrivers.com/ .

About The Allstate Foundation Survey

The Allstate Foundation commissioned Teenage Research Unlimited (TRU) to conduct a national online survey of 1,007 parents of teen drivers ranging from ages 15 to 17 in February 2007. The margin of error is +/- three percentage points with a confidence level of 95 percent.

Posted by Frank at 7:19 AM

BorgWarner Technology Boosts Growth of Gasoline-Engine Turbocharging

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Advances in turbocharger design, manufacturing and materials are expected to boost the growth of turbocharged gasoline direct injected engines by 30% over the next five years, according to industry experts and BorgWarner, a leader in turbocharging technology.

"Gasoline-engine turbocharging is not focused exclusively on increasing engine output, but also on combining exceptional engine performance with fuel economy," said Roger Wood, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems. "These are among the most important challenges facing automakers all over the world. BorgWarner is at the forefront of the industry in terms of providing the technology solutions that enable our customers to meet the challenges of improving fuel economy and engine performance. In addition to conventional turbochargers, variable turbine geometry (VTG) technology will play a significant role in gasoline engines."

Several automakers around the globe are exploring application possibilities for VTG technology in gas engines. BorgWarner is leveraging its expertise in air management technology to ensure that the company is well- positioned to make the most of these opportunities. Worldwide, the use of turbocharged gasoline direct injected engines is expected to grow to 2 million engines in 2011 from about half a million in 2006. About 70% of these engines are expected to be produced in Europe, with the rest of the production in Japan, China and North America.

Downsized gasoline engines with VTG technology can achieve the same output and dynamic engine response as normally aspirated engines with a larger displacement. At the same time, these improvements are achieved with much lower fuel consumption. Fuel savings is estimated at 15 and 20 percent compared to a larger traditional or port injected gasoline engine without a turbocharger.

Until recently, VTG technology was limited to diesel engines. The technical challenge lay in developing materials capable of withstanding the much higher exhaust gas temperatures that are generated in gasoline engines. In cooperation with Porsche, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems succeeded in developing the first turbocharger with VTG technology for the Porsche 911 Turbo.

The key feature of the turbocharger is its adjustable guide vanes. The innovative design means that at low engine speeds and low exhaust gas flow rates, the vanes in a closed position develop a high boost pressure. This pressure falls as the vanes are opened. As a result, the bypass system with the wastegate valve that is a feature of conventional turbochargers can be eliminated. The entire exhaust gas flow can then pass through the turbine wheel and be immediately converted into increased boosting. This considerably improves engine response in the lower rpm range, compared to a conventional turbocharger with a wastegate typically used in gasoline applications.

To address the challenge of high exhaust temperature, BorgWarner used high- temperature-resistant alloys for the VTG cartridge and vanes, materials which are also used in aviation and space technology.

Following the successful debut of its gasoline VTG unit in the Porsche 911 Turbo, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems expects this technology to become established on a broad number of applications over the next ten years.

BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems is a leading global producer of turbochargers and other engine air management systems for passenger cars, light trucks and commercial vehicles. These systems are designed to improve fuel economy, reduce emissions and enhance vehicle performance.

Source: BorgWarner Inc.

Posted by Frank at 7:18 AM

March 14, 2007

Hyundai to Unveil Concept Genesis

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. – Concept Genesis (shown here as an advanced development sketch) will make its world debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show on Weds. April 4. Concept Genesis hints at design direction for a future rear-wheel drive premium sports sedan from Hyundai.

Posted by Frank at 1:00 PM

Basketball Devotees Give Sweet 16 New Meaning in "Dribble for a Dodge" Contest

* After 16 hours and 6 minutes, one dedicated dribbler dodged the rest of the competition and claimed the grand prize

* Raymond Eisbrenner of Plymouth, Mich., scored an all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab with a HEMI® engine and two tickets to college basketball's championship game

* Dodge created its own brand of madness with the “Dribble for a Dodge” challenge to kick off National Truck Month and “No Charge HEMI” promotion

Atlanta -- After dribbling for more hours than it took him to drive from his hometown of Plymouth, Mich., to Atlanta, Raymond Eisbrenner proved he could outlast the competition as the winner of the "Dribble for a Dodge" contest held at Morehouse College.

As the college basketball tournaments get underway, Dodge created its own brand of basketball madness to kick off National Truck Month and “No Charge HEMI®” promotion by hosting a basketball dribbling endurance contest. The University of Michigan junior dribbled for 16 hours and 6 minutes to beat 25 other contestants to win an all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab equipped with the legendary HEMI engine and two tickets to college basketball's final game.

In the spirit of sportsmanship, Eisbrenner gave the two tickets to the finals game to the second place dribbler, Atlanta's Anthony Locke, who also received a $250 gift card.

“I never thought that I would be the last person standing after checking out the tough competition," said Eisbrenner. "But I felt confident that my passion for basketball combined with my need for a new car would bounce me to the finish."

“March ushers in two very exciting events — the start of the college basketball finals and the start of National Truck Month with ‘No Charge HEMI’ promotion. ‘Dribble for a Dodge’ was the perfect way to bring these two events together by giving basketball enthusiasts the opportunity to prove they’re as tough as a Dodge Ram and walk away with their own HEMI-equipped truck and two tickets to the championship game,” said Michael Manley, Vice President – Sales Strategy and Dealer Operations, Chrysler Group. “But you don’t have to win a contest to get your own HEMI-equipped Ram. During March, every consumer who buys a Dodge Ram 1500 or Dodge Durango gets a HEMI at no charge.”

Habitat for Humanity Scores New Truck Too
In addition to Eisbrenner driving away in a new Ram, Dodge surprised Atlanta Habitat for Humanity's Executive Director Larrie Del Martin with the donation of a 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 to support the organization's mission to build more than 50 homes in Atlanta this year.

"The Dodge Ram is such a surprise. Atlanta Habitat for Humanity is the second largest producer of Habitat homes in the United States," said Martin. "We don't want to spend the money we have on vehicles. We want to spend it on the houses, so this donation from Dodge is like a dream."

About Dribble for a Dodge
From basketball rookies and benchwarmers to all-stars, consumers registered online at www.DribbleforaDodge.com for the chance to play in the “Dribble for a Dodge” challenge. Contestants were chosen to test their toughness and endurance by dribbling HEMI-branded basketballs for as long as possible. Each contestant left the court with a HEMI-basketball and a “No Charge HEMI” basketball jersey.

Posted by Frank at 10:06 AM

Mazda delivers hydrogen vehicle to research institute

Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE being delivered to JARI

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that it has delivered one dual-fueled RX-8 Hydrogen RE vehicle, which runs on either gasoline or hydrogen, to the Japan Automobile Research Institute (JARI)*1. The Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE has a rotary engine with a dual-fuel system that allows the driver to select either gasoline or hydrogen fuel with the flick of a switch.

JARI is working with the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)*2 on the Establishment of Codes & Standards for a Hydrogen Economy Society project. The RX-8 Hydrogen RE will be used as part of its R&D activities to review the regulations regarding the safety of hydrogen vehicles, establish examination and evaluation techniques and create proposals for international standards. The hydrogen supply will mainly come from JARI’s own hydrogen station at their facility in Tsukuba city.

Mazda is independently developing hydrogen cars with rotary engines as part of its efforts to promote an environmentally friendly society. It attained approval to test the RX-8 Hydrogen RE vehicle on public roads in Japan from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT) in October 2004. Since March 2006, Mazda has supplied six vehicles to government and private enterprises for use in various events and initiatives. From February 19 through 23, 2007, Mazda collaborated with the MLIT’s Hokkaido Regional Development Bureau (HRDB) to conduct cold weather testing of the RX-8 Hydrogen RE in Muroran city, Hokkaido Prefecture. The vehicle delivered to JARI is the seventh RX-8 Hydrogen RE that Mazda has supplied.

*1 JARI is a public-service corporation of a test research organization established in April 1969. Its aim is to contribute to the healthy growth of automotive society by gaining a precise understanding of social needs through a wide range of research and vehicle testing. It is also dedicated to giving the results of its research and testing back to society to aid the public good.

*2 NEDO was established in 1980 through both public and private funding as a reservoir of expertise and technological strength. It is a research and development organization that focuses on industrial technologies to promote the creation of new industry and clean energies to solve to world’s environmental problems.

Posted by Frank at 10:03 AM

Club Racer-Inspired Honda S2000 CR Prototype to Debut at New York Auto Show

A new club racer-inspired version of the Honda S2000 will take the legendary vehicle's track-worthy performance to an entirely new level when it makes its world debut at the New York International Auto Show on April 4, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

Engineered around the expectations and needs of Honda performance enthusiasts, the S2000 CR will be available as a new trim level when the aggressively-tuned vehicle goes on sale in the fall of 2007.

Posted by Frank at 10:01 AM

Kristina Hammer appointed new head of Marketing Communications Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars

Stuttgart -- Effective April 15, 2007, Dr. Kristina Hammer, 38, has been appointed head of Marketing Communications Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. In her new position, she will be responsible for traditional brand communications as well as the new media unit including Internet and media planning.

Moreover she will be in charge of customer relationship management, marketing activities and the Branded Entertainment unit. Hammer worked previously as Director Marketing Operations and Growth Strategy at the Premier Automotive Group and Ford of Europe in London. She will report to Dr. Olaf Göttgens, Vice President Brand Communications Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars.

Also since February 1, 2007, the Branded Entertainment unit within Marketing Communications has been headed by Bettina Haussmann. Haussmann, 35, was previously engaged in product management at DaimlerChrysler Sales Organisation Germany. In her new position, she is responsible for Mercedes-Benz’ sponsorship activities, cooperative ventures and product placements. She succeeds Burghard Graf Vitzthum von Eckstaedt.

Posted by Frank at 9:58 AM

Lexus to Reveal All-New LX 570 at 2007 New York Auto Show

Torrance, Calif. - Lexus will stage the world debut of the all-new LX 570 luxury utility vehicle at a press conference during the 2007 New York International Auto Show.

The third-generation LX 570 will reach new heights in performance via a powerful new V8 engine while achieving elevated levels of comfort, style and safety.

The Lexus LX 570 press conference is scheduled for April 4 at 1:55 p.m. EDT in the Special Events Hall at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. It will be simulcast in the Lexus display area on the show floor. A video clip of the press conference will be available via www.Lexus.com and http://pressroom.lexus.com following the event.

Posted by Frank at 9:55 AM

Triple White VW Convertible Available in L-T-D Edition

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. –Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that the limited edition Triple White New Beetle convertible is now available at dealers. Only 3,000 customers will have the opportunity to own this truly special edition.

The Triple White New Beetle convertible features a unique Campanella white exterior, a white interior, and white convertible roof boot. The Triple White New Beetle convertible takes its color palette from the original Super Beetle convertible of the late 70s. This modern day rendition includes 17-inch ‘Oktopus’ alloy wheels, a three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, white leatherette seats and center armrest.

Also included are black carpeting, floor mats and door panels along with Sirius Satellite Radio. Another distinctive feature of the Triple White New Beetle convertible is the special front seat headrests ingrained with the New Beetle convertible icon.

With the standard automatic transmission, the Triple White New Beetle convertible is priced at $25,990.

Posted by Frank at 9:53 AM

Mercedes diesel cars earn environmental certificate

A 160 CDI and B 200 CDI: Mercedes-Benz is awarded the prestigious Car Environment Certificate

Stuttgart -- The internationally renowned environmental institute Öko Trend has awarded its Car Environment Certificate to two Mercedes Benz models. Both the A 160 CDI and the B 200 CDI manufactured by the Stuttgart brand achieved top marks during an extensive and critical analysis by specialists at the independent institute.

The two Mercedes-Benz models concerned achieved well-above-average results in all areas. In the view of the institute, they not only achieve excellent values with respect to fuel consumption and exhaust/noise emissions, but also excel by virtue of environmentally friendly production, materials and logistics.

The Öko-Trend institute was full of praise for these impressive results: "The Mercedes A 160 CDI may be seen as one of the most eco-friendly vehicles with a conventional drive system," the experts found. "The development phase for this compact car was already based on a comprehensive environmental concept which takes the entire lifecycle of the vehicle into consideration. Numerous specific measures have reduced emissions during the production and operation of the new A-Class by approximately 17 percent compared to the preceding model. All in all, Mercedes has set new ecological standards for conventionally powered vehicles with the new A-Class." The A 160 CDI consumes 4.9 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, which corresponds to a CO2 value of 128 grams.

According to the findings of Öko-Trend, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class is distinguished by "a high degree of variability and spaciousness, as well as convincing environmental credentials". The Öko-Trend institute had special praise for the power unit of the B 200 CDI: "The 140-hp diesel engine is equipped with a particulate filter as standard. Thanks to a high torque of 300 Nm, which is already available from 1600 rpm, this engine allows a relaxed style of driving and early upshifts. A fuel consumption of six litres per 100 km is feasible in practice. All in all, therefore, the Mercedes B 200 CDI achieves a very good environmental rating." The institute also emphasised the high ecological standards that generally apply at Mercedes-Benz.

The "Öko-Trend Institute for Environmental Research" founded by the Bergische University of Wuppertal has been publishing research reports about the eco-friendliness of car models since 1997. Last year the environmental specialists at this financially independent and neutral institute expanded their analytical activities, and began to issue their internationally renowned Öko-Trend Car Environment Certificate, which is only awarded to vehicles which meet particularly high environmental standards. In making their assessment, the specialists take not only vehicle-specific criteria such as fuel consumption and exhaust/noise emissions into account, but also environmental parameters relating to production, logistics, recyclability and the manufacturer’s environmental management systems. The certificate is only awarded to vehicles which achieve at least 90 percent of the maximum score in all assessment criteria.

To date only 15 car models worldwide have been awarded the Certificate, among them the recently certificated Mercedes-Benz model A 160 CDI in the compact class and the B 200 CDI in the compact van class.

Posted by Frank at 9:50 AM

Air Bags Linked to More Foot, Ankle Trauma

ORLANDO -- Members of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) say they've noticed a significant increase in traumatic foot and ankle injuries among patients who survived auto accidents. The reason? Air bags.

In 1998, the federal government started requiring dual front air bags in passenger cars. Since then, several research studies have documented a corresponding increase in lower extremity injuries. According to a federal report, drivers in air-bag equipped cars suffer more than 17,600 lower extremity injuries every year. One-third of those are to the foot and ankle.

While foot and ankle trauma is not life threatening, victims may face multiple surgeries, limited mobility and months or years of rehabilitation and physical therapy.

"We see trauma we never saw before," says ACFAS President James L. Thomas, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle trauma surgeon at the University of Alabama, Birmingham Hospital. "A decade ago, these patients would have died from head trauma or other upper body injuries. Now, thanks to seat belts and air bags, they survive."

Foot and ankle surgeons meeting in Orlando this week for the ACFAS Annual Scientific Conference are discussing less-invasive techniques for treating traumatic injuries received in motor vehicle crashes and other incidents. A common technique is the use of internal or external fixation devices, which immobilize the foot and ankle, just like a cast. Internal fixation devices can involve a series of rods, screws and plates attached to bones, stabilizing them and permitting proper healing. External fixation devices appear as scaffolding on a building, with outside rods through the skin attached to bone underneath.

"Many patients who suffer foot and ankle trauma in an auto crash -- with or without air bags -- face a long road to recovery," says Thomas. "But the good news is, many patients do recover and lead a normal active lifestyle."

For more information on foot and ankle surgeons and the conditions they treat, visit the ACFAS consumer Web site FootPhysicians.com.

The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) is a professional society of more than 6,000 foot and ankle surgeons. Founded in 1942, the College's mission is to promote research and provide continuing education for the foot and ankle surgical specialty, and to educate the general public on foot health and conditions of the foot and ankle through its consumer website, http://www.footphysicians.com/.

Source: American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

Posted by Frank at 9:41 AM

SUV Front Group Warns Against Fuel Economy Standards

SUVOA Representatives Available to Comment on Congressional Energy Hearings

WASHINGTON -- With the Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality in the U.S. House of Representatives set to hold hearings on Wednesday, March 14 that could lead to substantial increases in federal fuel economy standards, the SUV Owners of America (SUVOA) warns that aggressive increases in the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards could come with unintended safety and economic consequences.

All Americans, including owners of light trucks -- pick-ups, vans, minivans and SUVs -- support reasonable steps to reduce harmful effects of vehicle and other emissions, foster less reliance on imported oil, and enhance vehicle fuel economy. But most also expect that federal and state efforts to accomplish these goals are reached in a balanced way that along with energy savings and independence considers -- and values -- family, business and recreational transportation, as well as passenger safety.

"History shows that when the government raised fuel economy standards in the past, it forced auto manufacturers to make more small vehicles in order to comply with the regulation, which put occupants at greater risk of death or injury in crashes," said SUVOA President Barry McCahill. "Experts say thousands of lives already have been lost as a result of previous CAFE increases, and we could lose thousands more if some of the current proposals are forced into law."

History also shows that CAFE increases can limit consumers' options for vehicle utility functions such as towing and hauling heavy loads that require the use of pick-ups, vans, SUVs and other light trucks. Farmers, ranchers, small businesses, contractors, boaters, campers, RV owners and families are among the millions of Americans who rely on light trucks and could be adversely affected by unreasonably high fuel economy standards.

For example, since CAFE was implemented in the late 1970s, 99 percent of the towing capacity of passenger cars disappeared. Americans moved to SUV and light trucks as passenger car substitutes when cars no longer met their lifestyle needs.

Today, vehicle manufacturers are offering a wide array of vehicles, all with relatively low emissions as defined historically (and legally), and many with superior fuel economy. More improvements are coming at a rapid pace. SUVOA believes that improvements should be continuous as a national priority, but done in a way that balances environmental and other strategic imperatives with the need to sustain our economic leadership and preserve the unique American lifestyle that includes many facets beyond just the most basic transportation.

Source: SUV Owners of America

Posted by Frank at 9:37 AM

March 13, 2007

Mercedes-Benz fields most powerful natural-gas-driven saloon ever

E 200 NGT: environmentally friendly solution with bi-fuel drive

Stuttgart -- With CO2 emissions reduced by more than 20 percent and a more than 50 percent reduction in operating costs, the Mercedes-Benz E 200 NGT has been available since the spring of 2004.

As well as making it one of the most cost-effective models in the Mercedes range, the 120-kW/163-hp four cylinder engine under the bonnet of the bi fuel E 200 NGT also makes it the most powerful natural-gas-driven saloon currently in production.

Natural-gas-powered vehicles are a key element of DaimlerChrysler's overall concept for reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and for safeguarding a sustainable form of mobility.

The E 200 NGT (Natural Gas Technology) was developed at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center on the platform of the E 200 KOMPRESSOR. The four-cylinder powerplant has a power rating of 120 kW/163 hp and generates a peak torque of 240 Newton metres. Thanks to the elaborate solutions which have been used to integrate the additional technical components, power delivery, comfort, quality and safety have not been compromised in any way aboard the E 200 NGT.

The E 200 NGT with its bi-fuel petrol/natural-gas power unit complies with the same stringent EU 4 emissions limits met by the petrol-powered E 200 KOMPRESSOR. In natural-gas operating mode, emissions of carbon dioxide are cut by over 20 percent compared to petrol operation.

Operating mode can be switched conveniently at the touch of a button

The E 200 NGT can be run on either natural gas or premium unleaded petrol, with the driver being free to decide which of the two drive sources should be deployed. The buttons in the multifunction steering wheel and the central display in the instrument cluster can be used to switch between natural-gas and petrol operation as required. Ensuring a smooth, jolt-free switch between modes is the task of a special electronic control circuit which orchestrates the changeover for each cylinder individually. A gauge in the instrument cluster's central display keeps the driver informed of the current level of gas in the reservoirs. Once the supply of gas has been exhausted, the system automatically switches back to petrol operation, so smoothly that the change is imperceptible to the vehicle's occupants. As soon as the reservoirs are refuelled with natural gas, the journey is automatically resumed in the gas operating mode.

Specific modifications to the supercharged TWINPULSE engine

The supercharged TWINPULSE engine was modified by the addition of injector nozzles on the underside of the intake manifold. A pressure regulator with sensor and electromagnetic shut-off valve is fitted near the engine to regulate the supply of natural gas and maintain the required system pressure at a constant level. The reprogrammed engine electronics ensure seamless operation in both drive modes. The E 200 NGT distinguishes itself from comparable models, which often deliver poorer performance in natural-gas mode, by matching the sophisticated four cylinder power unit's exemplary power and torque characteristics even when running on natural gas. This makes the E 200 NGT the most powerful saloon with a bi-fuel drive unit currently in series production.

This environmentally friendly variant of the E-Class is available in Germany, Austria, Italy, Sweden and Switzerland among other markets, and in a right hand drive version for Thailand and Singapore.

Comprehensive crash testing to ensure trademark Mercedes safety

The two fuel sources are stored in a petrol tank with a capacity of 65 litres and four gas reservoirs with a total storage capacity of 18 kilograms respectively. The reservoirs are located in the spare wheel well in the boot, and behind the rear bulkhead. A comprehensive programme of crash testing has been carried out to ensure the high standards of safety that Mercedes is renowned for. The leak tightness of the gas reservoirs was subject to particularly rigorous scrutiny - after all, the natural gas that is pumped into the reservoirs during refuelling is compressed to a pressure of 200 bar.

When its fuel reservoirs are fully replenished, the total range of the E 200 NGT - based on the NEDC fuel consumption figures - is around 1000 kilometres, of which just under 300 kilometres are covered with the natural-gas drive and the remaining 700 kilometres with conventional petrol power. The saloon may also be equipped with an 80-litre petrol tank as an option, extending the maximum range to nearly 1200 kilometres.

Large boot capacity and the same high payload

With the gas reservoirs fitted, the boot has a load capacity of 400 litres (measured in accordance with the VDA method). In practical terms, this means sufficient stowage space for two jumbo suitcases plus two smaller travel cases. The payload capacity of the saloon with its five-speed automatic transmission is 510 kilograms – virtually the same as in the E 200 KOMPRESSOR.

When seen from the outside, the E 200 NGT with bi-fuel drive looks just the same as any other series-production E-Class saloon. The only difference is that the fuel filler flap is somewhat larger, concealing as it does not only the familiar filler neck for the petrol tank but also a special filler connection for the natural gas, which has been purpose-designed to ensure safe and convenient refuelling.

Costs halved in natural-gas operating mode

Quite apart from the drastic cut in CO2 emissions, running the vehicle on natural gas also holds economic benefits. At the present time, a kilogram of natural gas costs between € 0.80 and € 0.90 in Germany, which translates into a cost of between € 0.54 and € 0.60 per litre when equated with the energy provided by petrol. This makes natural gas over 50% more cost-effective than premium unleaded petrol. Furthermore, a range of financial incentives - such as tax benefits and subsidies by the gas suppliers - is on offer in Germany to assist with the purchase of natural-gas-powered vehicles.

Natural gas represents a feasible alternative to petrol and diesel, both from an ecological and an economic point of view. The fact that it is a primary form of energy allows it to be used in its natural state without any conversion losses. Non-toxic and odourless, natural gas is made up primarily of methane (CH4), meaning that it contains a lower proportion of carbon than any other fossil fuel. Consequently, CO2 emissions are cut by over 20 per cent compared to petrol.

Network of natural-gas filling stations expanding all the time

Expansion of the filling station network in Germany is continuing apace. There are currently more than 730 filling stations in Germany with natural-gas pumps. Refuelling with natural gas is extremely straightforward and takes no longer than with traditional fuel types. Furthermore, no losses through evaporation take place and no unpleasant odours are produced during refuelling.

Natural gas is lighter than air. As a result, natural-gas-powered vehicles may be driven into multi-storey car parks and tunnels without any restrictions. Warning signs such as "Entry prohibited for compressed-gas-driven motor vehicles" do not apply to vehicles run on natural gas.

Posted by Frank at 9:50 AM

Building the Plug-In Hybrid: The Battery Challenge

By Beth Lowery
Vice President, GM Environment and Energy

In January, GM caused great excitement when we revealed the Chevrolet Volt, our plug-in electric hybrid concept vehicle. Since that time, we have received many questions about the car, particularly relating to the challenges of battery technology.

Today, I led a discussion before 100 members of the media and bloggers who joined in person and by webcast. The battery briefing: (1) introduced GM’s new battery team and summarized where we’ve been — GM learned from its past work with the EV1 and lead acid batteries; (2) where we are — GM has evolved to nickel metal hydride batteries in vehicles like the current Saturn Vue Green Line; and (3) where we’re going — to make a production-worthy car, the vehicle must meet a potential car buyer’s expectations in terms of performance, cost, safety and reliability — and the battery is an integral part of that process.

Joining me were leaders from technology partners like Johnson Control–Saft, A123 Systems and Cobasys. Each spoke about the challenges in developing a lithium ion battery that is safe, low cost and as efficient and long-lasting as possible. Each is looking at refining materials and improving battery chemistry to develop a product that will be used in GM’s future vehicles.

Whatever the battery looks like, it will need to perform in all situations — from quick acceleration to climbing steep hills. The energy storage needed to give the vehicle its range is equivalent to the power needed to run a laptop continuously for weeks. Lithium ion is the best solution to provide the energy and packaging profile demanded by these vehicles.

These efforts are all part of GM’s commitment, as first laid out by Rick Wagoner at the L.A. Auto Show to develop more diverse, more secure and cleaner energy pathways.

Finally, for those of you who are wondering, “What about GM’s hydrogen fuel cell program? Is it dead?” No, absolutely not. GM’s battery program in no way diminishes GM’s commitment to developing hydrogen fuel cell technology. The fuel cell program remains on track, with 100 fuel-cell powered Chevrolet Equinoxes hitting the streets later this year as part of our Project Driveway test fleet.

Through these efforts, GM continues to address the bigger issues of the environment, national security, dependence on foreign oil, technological leadership and new, diverse pathways for the future of transportation.

Posted by Frank at 9:46 AM

Jeep letting you choose the adventure that leads to their new Patriot

* Unique film helps viewers experience the features and capabilities of the Jeep Patriot

* TV spots, print ads and online ads are among other elements launching March 15

* "March Madness" media will play a big role in the campaign

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- For the second time in as many months, the Jeep® brand has created a cutting-edge Internet experience designed to provide consumers an online immersion into the features and capabilities of the all-new 2007 Jeep Patriot compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV).

In February the Jeep brand and Marvel Comics unveiled “The Patriot Factor,” an online adventure comic book whose story line is being provided by consumers at www.patriotadventure.com.

Today, as part of the nationwide marketing launch for the Jeep Patriot, the brand introduced “The Way Beyond Trail,” an online interactive film. Consumers can join three characters who drive a Jeep Patriot while www.patriotadventure.com searching for a buried treasure. Consumers directly impact the evolution of the plot through their viewing choices, making "The Way Beyond Trail" a unique and truly interactive experience.

Product features of the Jeep Patriot are integral to the story line. In one scene, for example, the lead female charactor invites a group of people to a tailgait party by cranking up the music on the Patriot's two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate.

“‘The Way Beyond Trail’ and ‘The Patriot Factor’ combine the timeless magic of story-telling with the power and reach of the Internet,” Jay Kuhnie, Director-Jeep Communications, said. “Both applications allow us to engage prospective customers of the Jeep Patriot in an environment that is interactive and entertaining, which resonates well with them.”

“The Way Beyond Trail,” which goes live on March 15 at www.patriotadventure.com, is a unique element of the marketing campaign for the 2007 Jeep Patriot. The campaign also includes two new 30-second TV spots, print ads, online advertising, a Hispanic campaign, product integration, events, direct mail, billboards and other out-of-home elements.

Overall, the theme of the Jeep Patriot marketing campaign, “choose your adventure,” is reinforced within the major elements of the campaign. For example, “The Way Beyond Trail” has 44 scenes (ranging from 15-30 seconds in length) and participants choose their path through the adventure.

Even the print ads allow readers to choose how they will interact with them.

Ultimately, the campaign theme takes its cue from the 2007 Jeep Patriot. That’s because the all-new vehicle delivers the fun, freedom, utility and best-in-class Jeep 4x4 capability that allows anyone to “choose your adventure.”

“The Jeep Patriot is targeted at young, active men and women who always wanted a Jeep but couldn’t afford one,” John Plecha, Director – Jeep Marketing and Global Communications, said. “Now, these consumers can choose their adventure in a Jeep Patriot because it delivers the Jeep experience at an affordable starting price – $14,985.”

Among the key elements of the campaign are:

Media
From now until April 1, Jeep Patriot advertising will be prominent wherever there’s news about March Madness, the NCAA Men’s College Basketball Championship. For example, sports-themed banners about the Jeep Patriot will appear on virtually every Web site devoted to sports, including ESPN.com, SportingNews.com, SportsIllustrated.com, as well as the home pages of AOL and Yahoo, among others. The two TV spots will get frequent airing on TV sports programming such as CBS Sports, College Sports TV, Fox Sports and College Hoops Network. Print ads already have appeared in USA Today and will continue during March Madness.

The Way Beyond Trail
The main characters are Gary, Srini and Jodi. (The same trio appears in the TV commercials for the 2007 Jeep Patriot.) Each online participant becomes the fourth member of the group of friends on a backwoods camping trip. The story starts around a campfire when Gary reveals an old family treasure map handed down from his uncle. The three friends, plus the viewer, decide they’ll be the ones to find it.

It is possible to complete the adventure without viewing all 44 scenes. Part of the challenge and fun is that some scenes are dead ends. However, players can simply go back and make a different choice to keep the story going. There is only one correct path that leads participants to the ending scene of the interactive film.

Participants can customize their experience by uploading photos and personal information that will reappear as embedded content within the film.

There is also a viral component. Participants have the option to provide an Emergency Contact person (name and e-mail address) in the event they get “lost.” On the first instance of encountering a dead end, an e-mail is automatically sent to their Emergency Contact, inviting them to try their own luck on “The Way Beyond Trail.”

TV Spot Descriptions
“Wolf” – At a riverside campsite, Gary and Srini pull a prank on Jodi by taking her canoe from the roof of her 2007 Jeep Patriot. As they head to the river to make their escape, Jodi can't awaken her male partner. So she fires up the Jeep Patriot and pursues the pranksters on a path that goes parallel to the river. After driving through rugged terrain which the Jeep Patriot handles effortlessly, Jodi stops ahead of the fleeing canoe. On the opposite bank of the river she spots a wolf on a rock. She takes her forefinger and thumb and puts them in front of her face. She picks up the wolf with her fingers and drops it into the canoe. Terrified, Gary and Srini jump into the river and escape.

“Wake Up” – The interior features of the Jeep Patriot are highlighted as two campers load their gear into the rear of the vehicle. A third camper, however, is asleep in his tent. Nothing rouses him: not his friends raising the volume of the Patriot’s MP3 player, or pointing the flip-down speakers directly at the tent and blasting music. Finally, one of the campers takes his forefinger and thumb and puts them in front of his eye and picks up the guy’s tent. He lifts it over the water and dumps his friend into the lake.

“Wolf” will first air on March 15 during the NCAA Men's College Basketball Tournament. “Wake Up” debuts March 20. Both will run on sports, music, entertainment and news programming, on late-night shows, and on networks such as Fox, ABC, NBC, E!, MTV and FX.

“Animales” is the title of the TV campaign targeted at Hispanics. There are two Spanish-language 30-second TV spots scheduled to start airing in April on Univision, Telefutura, Galavision, ESPN Deportes, GolTV, LatiNation and Mun2.

“Mosquito” – A chameleon is interrupted by his friend the mosquito moments before he prepares for lunch. The mosquito explains how he noticed a new animal -- the Jeep Patriot -- in the forest. Intrigued, the chameleon follows and tries to make it his next meal. As the Jeep Patriot drives through the forest, showcasing the capability of its Freedom Drive II™ Off-road Package, the mosquito follows it’s every move. Just as mosquito begins his final approach the Patriot kicks up mud in his face and the mosquito flies blindly into a tree head first.

“Weasel” – An amorous weasel wanders through the forest and stumbles upon a new animal -- the Jeep Patriot -- which seems to be singing a beautiful song. The Weasel eagerly approaches the Patriot, admiring its classic angles and modern features, such as the rear-liftgate speakers which projects the beautiful song throughout the forest. The Weasel is overcome with emotion and falls in love with the Jeep Patriot.

“Family Tree” is a print ad in English and Spanish that will appear in such Hispanic publications as Billboard Latino, Fútbol Mundial, Latino U, Urban Latino, Fox Sports en Español, ESPN Deportes, among others.

Print Ads
There are two versions of an ad called “Connect the Dots.” Each has a photo of the Jeep Patriot in a field of dots that are assigned to numbers. One set of numbers and dots is red, the other is blue. Readers can choose to connect the red dots or the blue one. Each yields a different image.

The other print execution is a full-page spread with a sticker insert. There are two versions of this ad. One spread shows a forest scene. It is divided by an insert that has stickers on both sides. The stickers are removable pictures of the Jeep Patriot, plus people, clothing and gear that would be found in a forest. Readers can remove the stickers and arrange them any way they want on the forest page. The possibilities for this version of “choose your adventure” are limitless. The second version of this ad uses a beach scene, with related stickers that also can be placed wherever the reader likes.

A sampling of the print placements includes sports publications (Sports Illustrated; ESPN, the annual March Madness Preview Section of USA Today), music (Rolling Stone, and Spin,), men’s lifestyle (Maxim, Details, GQ, Men’s Health,) outdoor/adventure (Surfer, Four Wheeler, Runner’s World) and women’s lifestyle (Jane, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan).

Jeep Brand
With the introduction of the Jeep Patriot, the Jeep brand has expanded to seven models in the 2007 model year, the most available to retail consumers at one time in the brand’s 66-year history.

At the start of 2004, the brand’s trio of tough, capable, rugged SUVs included the venerable Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty (Cherokee outside North America) and the icon of the brand, the Jeep Wrangler. In 2005, the Jeep Commander was introduced. In 2006, the redesigned Jeep Wrangler was unveiled. Also debuting in calendar year 2006 were three more all-new Jeep vehicles: Jeep Patriot, Jeep Compass and the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

Posted by Frank at 9:44 AM

VW Rabbit receives 2007 Residual Value nod

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc announced today that the 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit was chosen as Automotive Lease Guide’s highest projected resale value in the compact car segment. The annual award acknowledges automakers for producing vehicles predicted to retain the highest percentage of their original price. The models that are honored for best residual value are top-ranked vehicles in their relevant categories.

Automotive Lease Guide analyzes value, historical vehicle performance and industry trends in more than 1,100 vehicles in 13 vehicle segments to determine the automotive industry’s best residual values. The award is based upon Automotive Lease Guide’s projected residual values and industry analysis for the 2007 calendar year.

“It is an honor to receive this award from Automotive Lease Guide,” says Keith Price, public relations manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We’re delighted to be recognized as a top-ranked brand and for our resale values, both core measurements for Volkswagen’s success. Since the original Rabbit sprung into U.S. action in 1974, the vehicle itself continues to add the winning combination of value, affordability and fun to drive, while maintaining an enduring appeal to our consumers.”

The 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit picks up in spirit where the original left off, featuring many of the most popular comfort and convenience features as standard, including six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat with height adjustment, an anti-theft alarm system with a central remote locking feature, turn signals built into the outside rear view mirrors, and heated windshield washer nozzles on four-door models.

The model offers Volkswagen’s 2.5-liter, inline five-cylinder, dual-overhead camshaft engine delivering 150 horsepower at 5,000 revolutions per minute. A prodigious 170 lbs.-ft. of torque develops at 3,750 rpm, with 90 percent available from 1,750 rpm to 5,125 rpm.

The automatic transmission achieves an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon in highway driving, and 22 mpg in city driving and is available with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic Tiptronic® transmission.

The 2007 Rabbit is available in two- and four-door models at Volkswagen dealers with a starting price of $14,990 for two-door and $16, 990 for four-door.

This is the fifth residual value award since 2001 from Automotive Lease Guide, winning in the areas of midsize, compact and industry brand segments.

Posted by Frank at 9:27 AM

Nissan Advances Testing of Intelligent Transportation System

Innovative Vehicle-to-Infrastructure Communication System to Help Reduce Traffic Accidents and Improve Pedestrian Safety

TOKYO -- Nissan Motors Co., Ltd. announced today that it will begin the next test-phase of its intelligent transportation system (ITS) project, employing vehicle-to-infrastructure communication that allows synchronized communication between vehicles and traffic light signals. Nissan will invest in the installation of an advanced traffic signal infrastructure within the site of the Nissan Technical Center, located in the Kanagawa Prefecture(1), to collect real-world vehicle data from several hundred employee cars participating in the project.

The new advanced traffic system will help reduce accidents as well as ease traffic congestion - specifically at traffic light intersections - leading to improved on-the-road fuel consumption. Since October 2006, Nissan has been conducting various experiments under its ITS Project in Kanagawa to help reduce accidents and ease traffic congestion.

The test-phase conducted within Nissan's premises is representative of real-world traffic conditions, where relevant data from vehicles can be collected and analyzed under a closely-monitored environment. The vehicle-data input and corresponding traffic-signal output from the intersections is computed by an advanced traffic light system specifically installed for the test program.

Two intersecting main roads, one running east-west for two kilometers and the other running north-south for one kilometer, each with multiple intersections and crosswalks, provide the basic parameters for the ITS experiment. Nissan has installed standard traffic lights and roadside optical beacons along these test-roads. Traffic data can be collected from the employee cars and shuttle buses without any on-board vehicle-modification. However, for specific data to support the development of the navigation program under testing, several hundreds employee cars will be equipped with the Vehicle Information and Communications System units.

1) Help reduce pedestrian accidents: Traffic signals place priority on crossing pedestrians

Based on the traffic-volume conditions, the system will calculate to optimize the timing lapse between crossing pedestrians and the change in traffic-signal. At times, pedestrians tend to ignore prohibitive red traffic signals at road-crossings when they do not observe any vehicles within sight, which is a common cause of accidents. The current test program will contribute to Nissan's research findings on ways to avoid such accidents.

In principle, when traffic conditions are lighter in the daytime, the pedestrian signal remains on green while the driver signal is maintained on red. When a vehicle approaches and stops at the light, the vehicle-system communicates with the traffic light beacon, which then allows the signal to switch to green. This system emphasizes the safety of the pedestrians by ensuring the pedestrian has the right-of-way each time.

When a driver slows down accordingly on approaching an intersection, the system again synchronizes the timing of the green signal with the approaching vehicle to minimize the need for repeated stops and acceleration, thus improving on-the-road fuel consumption under city-driving conditions. The test program will also include a virtual school zone(2), which will appear as a warning alert to speeding vehicles on its on-board navigation display.

2) Help reduce collisions due to traffic-signal oversights: Have traffic-signal alerts on-board vehicles

The traffic-signal alert system automatically appears on the navigation display as a vehicle enters within a specified distance to an approaching traffic light. This alert system is already being tested on public roads under the ITS project in Kanagawa. The advanced test-phase at the Nissan Technical Center will further study the effectiveness of the alert system related to specific factors such as Human-Machine Interface (HMI). To help minimize accidents due to traffic-signal oversights, Nissan is testing the possibility of providing higher levels of alert, control, and even intervention when a driver fails to respond to the traffic-signal alert.

3) Reduce congestion caused by red traffic signals and right-turn queues

Traffic congestion is often caused by red traffic signals and vehicles queuing to take a right turn from one lane streets. Nissan is developing its ITS system to optimize the timing intervals between changing traffic signals to correspond with real-time traffic volume and flow in order to ease traffic congestion. The advanced system is able to detect and respond to right-turning vehicles, thus reducing the queuing time and improve traffic flow at intersections. Current research is moving forward on methods to synchronize groups of traffic signals to facilitate smooth traffic flow over a wider scope of traffic conditions.

This next phase of Nissan's ITS research aims to optimize communication between vehicles and traffic signals to create an advanced traffic system where traffic signals operate in tandem with the vehicle-data input according to varying traffic conditions. Nissan hopes to help reduce traffic accidents and road congestion. Looking ahead, the company will continue working closely with the relevant government agencies in bringing the current experiment onto public roads under the existing ITS project in Kanagawa.

Under the Nissan Green Program 2010, announced in December 2006, Nissan is working to develop new technologies to reduce carbon-dioxide emissions from its vehicle line-up and global operating facilities. The ITS project in Kanagawa contributes to the NGP 2010 objectives by reducing traffic congestion and vehicle CO2 emissions through improved on-the-road fuel consumption.

References:

1: The Nissan Technical Center (Okatsukoku, Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture) is Nissan's primary center for research and development, developing products and production technology.

2: The virtual school zone will be set up in an area where the March Land, an employee day-care center's playground is located.

Source: Nissan Europe

Posted by Frank at 9:18 AM

10.5 Million Alternative Fuel Autos on Roads Today

Consumers are Discovering the Alternatives: 2006 Sales of Alternative Fuel Autos Exceed Automakers' Expectations by 50 Percent

WASHINGTON -- Automakers kicked off National Alternative Fuel Autos Week by announcing that there are 10.5 million Alternative Fuel Autos on the nation's roads today, according to 2006 sales data from R.L. Polk and Co.

The Polk sales figures also reveal that an unprecedented 1.5 million Alternative Fuel Autos were sold in 2006, surpassing automakers' sales expectations by 50 percent. Currently manufacturers are offering 60 models of Alternative Fuel Automobiles for sale including hybrid electric, ethanol- capable E-85, and clean diesel, up from just 12 models for sale in 2000. A complete list of available autos can be found at http://www.discoveralternatives.com/.

"There are 10.5 million Alternative Fuel Autos on the roads and highways of every state across the country. We are happy to see that consumers are, in fact, discovering the alternatives that are available to them on dealership lots nationwide," said Dave McCurdy, president of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. "We believe that the numbers of Alternative Fuel Autos on the roads continue to rise because consumers can choose from a variety of autos that reduce fuel use while still providing the utility, safety, performance and comfort they seek."

In addition to the 60 Alternative Fuel Autos currently being offered, auto engineers are working to include a diverse range of highly fuel-efficient technologies in new vehicles. Today, every model for sale is available with some kind of fuel-efficient technology, such as fuel injectors, four-cylinder engines, variable valve timing, continuously variable transmissions, cylinder deactivation and more.

Automakers are also working with the energy industry to develop a range of alternative fuels capable of sustaining mobility while ensuring more secure energy sources. In fact, Alliance members have forged more than 25 partnerships, joint ventures or research and development projects with energy producers to expand the fueling infrastructure for fuels such as ethanol, biomass and hydrogen. Automakers are also working with the government, fuel providers and fuel retailers to help grow the E-85 ethanol fueling infrastructure. Since mid-2005, the industry has helped add 200 fueling stations in 13 states.

McCurdy added, "Having exceeded our sales expectations in 2006, we hope that 2007 will be another banner year for sales of Alternative Fuel Autos. This year marks the first-ever National Alternative Fuel Autos Week and automakers hope to draw more attention to the availability of these autos currently for sale."

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers is a trade association of 9 car and light truck manufacturers including BMW Group, DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen. For more information on advanced fuel-savings technology, visit the Alliance website at http://www.autoalliance.org/.

Source: Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers

Posted by Frank at 9:15 AM

Safety Engineers Offer Info Addressing Spiraling Number of Roadway Crashes, Deaths, Injuries and Repeat Offenders

DES PLAINES, Ill. -- The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) has developed and made available a special "Call to Action" TransActions newsletter with information aimed at helping prevent the increasing number of roadway fatalities and injuries that directly impact workers in support of the annual May 6-12 North American Occupational Safety and Health Week (NAOSH).

Worldwide, roadway crashes and fatalities are at an all time high. Transportation incidents continue to be the number one cause of on-the-job deaths each year in the U.S. The 6,159,000 vehicle crashes in 2005 resulted in the deaths of 43,443 people, injured 2.7 million more people and cost the U.S. $230.6 billion. The majority of those killed in crashes were drivers, and of those that died 75 percent were male. According to the U.S. Fatal Accident Reporting System (FARS), 6,483 motor vehicle operators involved in fatal crashes had previous records for suspensions, revocations, DUI, speeding and harmful moving convictions.

In the special NAOSH Week 2007 TransActions newsletter, ASSE's Transportation Practice Specialty (TPS) group provides key information on preventing roadway fatalities and injuries. It can be found on the ASSE web site at http://www.asse.org/naosh07. It also provides statistics and an overview of the problem from a global perspective. ASSE is encouraging its members to distribute it at work, to download it and forward it to family and friends in support of NAOSH Week, a week focused this year on all modes of transportation safety.

The newsletter features articles on handling accident investigations and reconstruction, transportation and food distribution safety, safe vehicle operations, effective driver training programs, New York City's bridges and tunnels, a shop safety checklist, developing a written safety program, and actions transportation companies can take to prepare for a possible avian flu outbreak.

TPS Administrator Doug Cook notes the major impact roadway safety has on businesses and believes the information in this newsletter can help. The TransAction authors, TPS members, include a safety engineering and biomechanics field expert, certified safety professionals (CSPs), casualty risk control professionals, loss control specialists, a safety, health and environmental director for a national food company, a forensic engineer, transportation engineering experts and a managing director of corporate safety, health and fire prevention for an international transportation company. Cook has 30 years of experience in transportation operations, sales and safety and is vice president of safety for Covenant Transport.

During the annual NAOSH Week ASSE members work to focus the attention of employers, employees, the general public and all partners in occupational safety, health and the environment on the importance of preventing injury and illness in the workplace. On Monday, May 7 the national NAOSH Week kick-off will be held in Washington, D.C., at the U.S. Department of Labor and in the Capitol. Joining ASSE in the national kick-off will be the Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Edwin Foulke Jr., the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE), and several other federal agencies and trade organization officials. Winners and entrants from the fifth annual ASSE Kids' "Safety-on-the-Job" poster contest for members' children aged 5 - 14 will also be recognized.

On May 9 ASSE celebrates the second annual Occupational Safety and Health Professional Day noting that every day millions of people go to and return home from work safely due, in part, to the work of occupational safety, health and environmental professionals and the businesses committed to protecting people, property and the environment.

To access ASSE "Call to Action" TransActions newsletter, the NAOSH 07 poster and tools please go to http://www.asse.org/naosh07 or contact ASSE customer service at 847-699-2929 or customerservice@asse.org.

Founded in 1911, ASSE is the oldest and largest professional safety society and is committed to protecting people, property and the environment. It's more than 30,000 occupational safety, health and environmental professional members manage, supervise, research and consult on safety, health, transportation and environmental issues in all industries, government, labor and education.

Source: The American Society of Safety Engineers

Posted by Frank at 9:14 AM

Saturn, GM Partner With Rodale In Health, Fitness Deal

SATURN IS PITCHING ITS NEW Aura sedan and Outlook crossover vehicles to health-conscious consumers via a cross-promotional relationship with magazine publisher Rodale, Inc.

The effort, "Detour: New Roads to Fitness," gives Saturn and GM sponsorship of an online health and fitness campaign at www.FindYourDetour.com, print inserts in a number of Rodale books and direct-marketing efforts.

The Web site promotes activities like snowboarding, kickboxing, yoga and skiing, and features Saturn advertising banners for Aura and Outlook, plus links to GM. The site also serves as a consumer kiosk with user chats and blogs, as well as RSS feeds, and podcasts on health and fitness issues.

Rodale will run a print-insert campaign in April issues of Men's Health, Women's Health, Best Life, Backpacker, Prevention, Bicycling, Runner's World, and other Rodale publications. Further print efforts and direct marketing will continue throughout the year. Rodale also inked a deal with AOL in which the latter will support the program with promotional elements within its health and fitness channels.

Posted by Frank at 9:11 AM

Digitas Picks Up GM Web Business; Named Saturn AOR

GENERAL MOTORS HAS CONSOLIDATED THE back-end work on the Web sites for all eight of its automotive brands with Digitas, and also named it the creative interactive agency of record on the Saturn brand.

The consolidation, said Ryndee Carney, manager of advertising and marketing communications for General Motors Corp., was a strategic step designed to help the automaker better exploit the Web by having a uniform underpinning for all eight brands--Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Chevrolet, Saturn, Saab, Cadillac and Humvee.

Boston-based Digitas also picked up some more work for the GMC corporate site, Carney said.

Digitas already handled the back-end work for Buick, Pontiac, GMC and Saab. It picked up the Chevrolet, Saturn, Cadillac and Humvee duties from the brands' respective creative agencies earlier this quarter, Carney added.

Posted by Frank at 9:10 AM

March 12, 2007

Chinese company to build trucks in Texas

Tiger Truck to Build First U.S. Assembly Plant for Chinese Trucks

JASPER, Texas -- In a landmark ceremony today, the owners of Tiger Truck, Texas Congressman Kevin Brady and other officials from the state of Texas, City of Jasper and Jasper County, jointly announced the first Assembly Plant in the U.S. for vehicles based on designs by ChangAn Automobile Group, China's third largest.

First vehicles will be delivered from here in early 2008 and will be "Made in U.S." Privately held Tiger Truck is the exclusive importer, distributor and now U.S. manufacturer for ChangAn, which in China has manufacturing agreements with Suzuki, Ford and Mazda.

Mike Ward, Founder and CEO of Tiger Truck, observed, "with so many U.S. manufacturers investing in China, I am particularly pleased to be investing in the U.S., hiring skilled U.S. workers and delivering superior products made here for our markets in the Americas.

While others are trying to buy cheap parts from China, we are seeking important OEM and sourcing agreements with key U.S. suppliers. I couldn't be more pleased with our long-standing partnership with ChangAn that leads to this historic first. In our off-road vehicle class, Tiger has been first to build an automatic transmission, 4WD, limited slip differential, electric drive, hybrid drive, and now we will be first to deliver true 'Made in U.S.' vehicles with a Chinese heritage. Our strong dealer network and fast-growing number of users seem to like what we are doing and now we can do it even better."

Initially, nearly 80% of the trucks manufactured here will be for export. The Jasper facility will assemble two new truck platforms. The Champ, available in a 2-door or 4-door crew cab, is a full-size pick-up truck with over 3,000 lb. capacity and will be sold to the U.S. and Canadian off-road market. Another version of this platform for export only is called the Leopard and will be configured with a diesel engine, dual rear wheels, and other features that make it suitable for on-road use in those export markets. The second platform (unnamed) is a medium duty truck with GVW of 14,000 lbs., 17,000 lbs. and 21,000 lbs. that will be sold worldwide for on-road use, including the US. This truck will be delivered with an EPA/C.A.R.B. certified diesel engine.

In acquiring this 92 Acre site with more than 250,000 square feet of existing indoor manufacturing space, ample on-site utilities and a rail spur in the building; Tiger Truck has abundant expansion capacity for the foreseeable future. Single shift capacity is 7,500 vehicles per year and will employ 100 people. This location is strategically well-suited for vehicle shipments to destinations throughout North America, Central America and the Caribbean Basin. The design of the vehicles and the assembly floor layout make it easy to mix configurations on the line even to the extent of right- hand or left-hand drives. Ward said, "The additional efficiencies that we gain from this new facility will sustain Tiger's ability to continue delivering low-cost, high-value vehicles to all of our selected markets. Even though Henry Ford might have objected, our state-of-the-art paint line will now permit us to deliver a larger palette of finish colors from the factory."

Congressman Brady indicated that, "with all the choices in North America available to Tiger Truck for the location of this important plant serving a large section of the international marketplace, we are particularly pleased that this remarkable facility was now available surrounded by an eager and skilled workforce and positioned as it is to meet so many of your strategic objectives. All of Texas is celebrating this historic first with Tiger and we look forward to many good things to come."

About Tiger Truck, LLC:

Tiger Truck has been delivering a series of multi-use trucks and vans for off-road use since 1999. All Tiger vehicles meet the stringent CARB/EPA standards and are available powered by a variety of fuels, electric drive, and include standard shift or automatic transmissions and a 4WD option. Tiger has the largest available array of truck body options for niche applications. Primary distribution in the U.S. is through a select dealership network. Most vehicles are available under the Federal GSA Purchasing Schedule (Contract #GS-07F0260M). Tiger Truck is a privately-held international company, headquartered in Dallas, TX with distribution outlets throughout the U.S., Central America and the Caribbean basin. See http://www.tigertruck.com/ .

Source: Tiger Truck, LLC

Posted by Frank at 8:06 PM

UAW and Big Three Support March of Dimes WalkAmerica

DETROIT -- United Auto Workers, DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors again are teaming up with the March of Dimes for its well-known fundraiser WalkAmerica, which will kick off with the Golden Mile on March 13th. The Golden Mile is the official start of WalkAmerica in Michigan and corporate leaders from Metro-Detroit will join in a symbolic half-mile walk. Also in attendance this year will be the March of Dimes National Ambassador, Zeek Taylor and his family.

"WalkAmerica, the walk to save babies, takes place at Hines Park in Wayne County on April 28th. On April 29th, WalkAmerica will be held at Hart Plaza, Metro-Beach MetroPark and Troy Civic Center," said Tom Riopelle, March of Dimes State Director of Michigan. "WalkAmerica supports the March of Dimes fight to save babies from premature birth -- the leading killer of newborns and from other serious threats to infant health."

UAW president Ron Gettelfinger became the first honorary state-wide chair for Michigan's WalkAmerica in 2004 and plays a vital role in encouraging UAW members and Michigan families to join the effort to give every baby a healthy start in life. Originally, he was to serve a one-year term. But, because of the success of WalkAmerica, Gettelfinger agreed to serve again. Gettelfinger expanded his efforts and recruited the help of the Big Three automakers and was successful in getting Ford Motor Company involved. Then DaimlerChrysler and General Motors agreed to come on board.

"The support of the March of Dimes is a growing effort and we are pleased to be working together with the UAW, DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company and General Motors. We are expanding the campaign nationally and encouraging all our facilities to participate. Our goal is help give every baby having a healthy start in life," said Mr. Riopelle.

The WalkAmerica 2007 honorary state chairs are John Franciosi, senior vice president Employee Labor Relations DaimlerChrysler, Joe Hinrichs, vice president North America Manufacturing Ford Motor Company, General Holiefield, vice president UAW DaimlerChrysler, Bob King, vice president UAW Ford, Cal Rapson, vice president UAW General Motors and Diana Tremblay, General Motors North America, vice president for Labor Relations.

The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For more information, visit http://marchofdimes.com/ or http://nacersano.org/ for Spanish language information.

Source: March of Dimes

Posted by Frank at 5:20 PM

Detroit Automotive Supplier Launches Deronda Sports Car in U.S.

SEBRING, Fla. -- An automotive two-seater rocket called the Deronda is making its American debut at Sebring this week. The Deronda can be either a sports car or a racecar, depending on how you use the gas pedal, and it's coming from Great Britain for production and public consumption in the U.S. by Autosport Development in Trenton, Michigan.

David Moxlow, president of Autosport Development, will be assembling a limited production of the Deronda at his Trenton plant south of Detroit. The Deronda won't be racing at Sebring this week, but it will catch a lot of crowd attention in its display for the fans and press.

At first glance, the Deronda Sports Car looks like a modern hot rod made of Erector Sets(TM) and Legos(TM), but the more you look, the stealthier it gets. Designed in the UK for pure and extreme performance, the car morphs into beauty like form follows function, and test drivers giggle like school kids as they whip around race courses.

As Moxlow says, "The Deronda is basically a road ready two-seater formula car. You can drive it to the track, race it to your heart's content, and then drive it home and park it in the garage."

The perfect customer for the Deronda already owns an Enzo Ferrari, but doesn't want to haul it around or risk his investment on the track. So he (or she) buys the Deronda, races it to the limit of their pulse rate, and keeps the Ferrari in the five-car garage, in pristine condition.

"At $70,000, the Deronda Sports Car is not exactly in the toy category, even for rich people," says Moxlow's Production Chief, Chris Trapp, "But the car is solid, low maintenance, and built from available componentry, so we think it will attract a whole range of enthusiastic customers who can only dream about owning the Ferrari."

The Deronda powertrain was developed by Audi Cosworth Technology, which is now owned by Mahle Powertrain L.L.C in Novi, Michigan. It includes an Audi Group 1.8 liter turbocharged engine with 5 valves per cylinder, and a Porsche 5-speed manual transaxle gearbox.

The chassis design and integral safety cell are modeled after Formula 1 standards, with double side-impact protection bars in addition to a steel tube chassis, longitudinally-braced double roll over hoops, and front and rear crash bar structures.

Since the Deronda jets from zero to 60 in under four seconds, the designed-in safety features are comforting factors. Two hundred and fifty brake horsepower (bhp) in a car weighing about 1,600 pounds will produce well over 300 bhp per ton. This makes the Deronda one of the fastest sports cars in the world, and the "glue in the corners" handling adds much to the excitement.

"At Autosport Development, we pride ourselves on fundamental engineering executed to perfection," says David Moxlow. "That's what we build into our racecars, and that's what we will deliver in the Deronda."

Moxlow's Autosport Development Team races twin Pontiac GTOs in the SPEED World Challenge GT Series. World Challenge races consist of a 50-minute sprint-race from a standing start. Racer magazine recently cited the series as "the most competitive road-racing series in the world."

The Deronda will be distributed through Sirius Motorsports L.L.C. Production of the fast moving vehicle (no pun intended) will begin in May.

Source: Autosport Development

Posted by Frank at 5:19 PM

Champ Car World Series enters Mazda agreement

MONTEREY -- The Champ Car World Series today entered an agreement with Mazda North American Operations that will see the famed manufacturer become The Official Vehicle of the Champ Car World Series for 2007.

Mazda will be able to showcase its performance cars as part of the Champ Car Pace Car Program, and will have its trucks, SUVs and crossover vehicles featured as part of the world-renowned Holmatro Safety Team, Champ Car's fast-response safety squad.

"This is a natural extension to our existing involvement with Champ Car as we enter our second season as the engine supplier for the Cooper Tires Atlantic Series," said Robert Davis, Senior Vice President, Product Development and Quality for Mazda North American Operations, and the man responsible for Mazda's North American motorsports programs through its MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development arm. "We look forward to expanding our relationship with the Champ Car team, and this is a great way for us to support one of the best open-wheel racing series in the world."

The partnership will also see Mazda advertisements run in every Champ Car World Series broadcast this year as well as those for the Cooper Tires Presents The Champ Car Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda. The California-based company will also be running a number of ads on the Champ Car World Series website in both banner and video form.

"We are pleased to see Mazda be so committed to the success of both Champ Car and the Atlantic series, and look forward to working with a partner that brings new and fresh ideas to the table," said Champ Car President Steve Johnson. "Mazda has a long and storied history in racing and we are looking forward to welcoming them to the Champ Car World Series."

Posted by Frank at 1:49 PM

Free Vehicle Check-Ups to Mark National Car Care Month in April

BETHESDA, Md. -- Most people recognize April as tax time, but in the automotive repair industry, it's also the official time to celebrate National Car Care Month (NCCM) and the benefits of regular vehicle care and maintenance.

To mark NCCM, automotive repair shops, parts stores, distributors and vocational schools throughout the country will offer free vehicle check-up events and car care aware fairs for consumers, according to the Car Care Council, the organization that spearheads the campaign.

During these events, automotive technicians check the vehicle's lubricants and fluids, windshield wipers, belts and hoses, the battery, tires and lighting. Many events also offer child safety seat inspections, blood pressure screenings, kids' activities and the chance to get your car washed and pick up some automotive-related literature, including the council's new Car Care Guide for consumers. If you don't attend a NCCM event or if the guide isn't available, single copies can be ordered on the council's Web site at http://www.carcare.org/.

"It's up to the sponsors to decide what to offer, and many events end up being enjoyable for the whole family," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Consumers get an important understanding about the condition of their vehicle so they can avoid costly repairs down the road. In the process, everyone has fun, including the sponsors of the events."

Sponsoring businesses and organizations that reported their results to the Car Care Council in 2006 found that nearly nine out of 10 vehicles that were checked failed at least one component of the vehicle inspection process. Nearly 1,000 vehicle inspection forms from events in 16 states were tallied in 2006.

Many sponsors are in the final planning stages of their NCCM events, and will begin adding the dates and locations to the Car Care Council Web site in the next few weeks. The council suggests that motorists check with their repair facility to see if they plan to offer a vehicle check-up event or fair. Consumers may also regularly check the council's Web site, http://www.carcare.org/, for a listing of local events.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For more information, visit http://www.carcare.org/.

Source: Car Care Council

Posted by Frank at 1:39 PM

MADD & Toyota Announce New Elementary School Assembly Show During Brain Awareness Week

Multimedia Show Tells Children How to Keep Their Brains and Bodies Safe and Healthy

DALLAS -- As Brain Awareness Week gets underway, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Toyota announce a new elementary school multimedia assembly show, Game On, that helps young children keep their brains and bodies safe by avoiding alcohol before the age of 21, buckling up, wearing a helmet and talking to trusted adults if they feel unsafe. Toyota is the National Presenting Sponsor of Game On and the National Transportation Sponsor for all of MADD's school assembly shows, including the secondary show, Take Two.

"Game On reminds young children that unlike in video games, there is only one chance in life to play it safe and to be healthy," said Glynn Birch, MADD national president. "In a little more than half an hour, Game On tackles serious issues for young children with cool interviews, music and movies that keep things fresh and interesting for young audiences."

According to researchers, the brain does not finish developing until a person is at least in his or her early 20s. One of the last regions of the brain to mature is intimately involved with the ability to plan and make complex judgments. Drinking before 21, the legal drinking age in all 50 states, can have a negative impact on brain development. Additionally, of the 414 children 0 to 14 years old who were killed in alcohol-related crashes during 2005, more than half (224) of those killed were passengers in vehicles with drivers who had been drinking.

Jo Cooper, Toyota's group vice president, said, "We are so proud to join MADD in communities around the country to bring this compelling program to young audiences. It is our shared responsibility to provide children the tools to make good choices. MADD and Toyota are working to be a resource for parents and teens by helping to provide safety messages to children." In addition, Toyota provides free, hands-on safety defensive driving programs for parents and newly licensed teenagers called Toyota Driving Expectations in selected U.S. cities.

Source: Mothers Against Drunk Driving; Toyota

Posted by Frank at 1:38 PM

California Policeman Selected as Kasey Kahne's Assistant for a Week

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The selection process was tough and the interviews were intense, but the winner of the Kasey Kahne Dream Job contest was up to the challenge -- and took home the top prize for his efforts.

David Metzger from Fremont, Calif., was named the winner after final interviews at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Saturday, March 10. Metzger, a policeman with the Atherton Police Department and a member of the San Mateo Narcotics Task Force, was one of three finalists who traveled to Las Vegas for the judging and the weekend's NASCAR Nextel Cup Series race. Metzger was selected for his problem-solving skills, commitment to improving performance, creative thinking and ability to deal with pressure on the job.

"This is a dream come true," said Metzger after learning of his selection on Sunday morning. "I can't wait until Darlington. I worked really hard to get the word out and get folks voting for me. I reached out to all the police on the force and had my family campaigning in their offices."

The contest, sponsored by Dodge Motorsports, offered contestants an opportunity to be Kahne's assistant at the Dodge Avenger 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race on May 12 at Darlington Raceway. More than 20,000 fans entered the contest, held online at www.kaseykahnedreamjob.com. Almost 116,000 people voted for the nine semifinalists. The top three finalists were: Kelli Quattlebaum of Greenville, S.C., received the most votes with 33,251; David Metzger from Fremont, Calif., received 20,891 votes and Erin Coates of Dubuque, Iowa., received 13,028 votes.

Metzger said he wants to help make Kasey Kahne's life easier and keep him looking good. On the track, Metzger said he would tell Kahne to drive fast and keep all four wheels on the ground.

Fans completed a questionnaire to show why they would be the best candidate to assist Kahne at Darlington. A panel of judges reviewed the applications and selected the best nine for the No. 9. Those nine semifinalists responded to questions submitted by Dodge on video and the video was used on the official website. Fans then voted online for the best contestants.

"I'm looking forward to working with David at Darlington," Kahne said. "He's got great skills and experience, and I think we'll have fun together. And, it will be great to have a policeman around. Darlington is a race that I'd like to win. It's a tough track, and you almost need a perfect day to win the Dodge Avenger 500. I'm sure my assistant will be ready for the challenge."

Metzger will spend four days at the Evernham Motorsports headquarters in Statesville and work with the Marketing Department scheduling Kahne's at-track activities for the Dodge Avenger 500 at Darlington Raceway. Duties will also include working with the marketing and public relations team to get Kahne to all the appearances, media interviews, on-track and NASCAR-mandated responsibilities on his schedule that weekend.

Additional awards for the grand prize winner include:

- One year supply of vitaminwater
- Kasey Kahne Tool Chest filled with Stanley Tools
- Dell Notebook Laptop Computer
- 37" Dell TV with LCD Technology
- BlackBerry from Sprint
- $300 Trackside Trailer shopping spree from Checkered Flag
- Kasey Kahne 1:24 scale diecast car set plus a Kasey Kahne hat and
T-shirt from Motorsports Authentics
- Dodge Interlocking Floor Tiles from On The Edge
- Multiple Dodge or Kasey Kahne licensed accessories from Motorhead
Products

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 1:37 PM

Ford Announces Agreement to Sell Aston Martin

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company announced today it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Aston Martin, its prestigious sports car business, to a consortium comprised of David Richards, John Sinders, Investment Dar and Adeem Investment Co. This transaction is the result of Ford's decision, as announced in August 2006, to explore strategic options for the Aston Martin business as the company restructures its core automotive operations and builds liquidity.

The sale is expected to close during the second quarter and is subject to customary closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals. The transaction values Aston Martin at 479 million pounds ($925 million). As part of the transaction, Ford will retain a 40 million pounds ($77 million) investment in Aston Martin. Other terms and conditions specific to the sale are not being disclosed at this time.

"The sale of Aston Martin supports the key objectives of the company, to restructure to operate profitably at lower volumes and changed model mix and to speed the development of new products," said Alan Mulally, Ford's President and chief executive officer. "From Aston Martin's point of view, the sale will provide access to additional capital, which will allow Aston Martin to continue the growth it has experienced under Ford's stewardship. Today's announcement is good for Ford Motor Company, good for Aston Martin and good for the UK. We wish Aston Martin every possible success for the future."

The new owner of Aston Martin is a consortium comprised of: David Richards, founder and chairman of Prodrive, a world-leading motorsport and automotive technology company; John Sinders, an avid Aston Martin collector and a backer of Aston Martin Racing; and Investment Dar and Adeem Investment Co, international investment companies headquartered in Kuwait.

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.

Source: Ford Motor Company

Posted by Frank at 10:51 AM

Chrysler Group Accelerates Certified Pre-Owned Sales in February 2007

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Continuing on the momentum started in January, the Chrysler Group reported that its Five Star dealers set a new February record of 10,187 Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) sales in 2007, a 9 percent increase compared with February 2006 sales of 9,309 units. Year-to-date sales also set a new record with 19,298 units, rising 9 percent from year-to-date sales in 2006.

Boosted by sales of the Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee (1,215 units) and the Jeep Liberty (669 units), total Jeep sales accelerated 31 percent in February. In addition, both Dodge and Chrysler brand sales rose 4 percent for the month. Year-to-date sales were also up across the board with Chrysler brand up 6 percent, Jeep brand up 26 percent and the Dodge brand up 3 percent

"With America's Hottest Product's offered at our Five Star dealers, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands appeal to customers on many levels and continue to set sales records," Peter Grady, Director -- DaimlerChrysler Motors Remarketing, said. "In our quest to deliver a great product to our customers, vehicles undergo a rigorous 125-point inspection to ensure only the highest quality products are driven off our Five Star lots."

The Chrysler Group offers one of the most comprehensive Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle programs in the industry. For a vehicle to be certified under the Chrysler Group's used-vehicle program, it must be a 2002 through 2007 model pre-owned vehicle with less than 65,000 miles and pass a stringent 125-point inspection. The Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are backed by an eight-year/80,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, 24-hour, 365-day full roadside assistance with a $35 per day rental car allowance and a three-month or 3,000-mile Maximum Care warranty, in addition to a Carfax Vehicle History Report and buyback guarantee.

Marketed as "Brand Spankin' Used(R)," the Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are sold only through Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships that have earned the automaker's Five Star certification. Five Star certification is a comprehensive validation of the dealership's facilities, operational processes, salesperson and technician training accreditation as well as customer satisfaction survey ratings. Approximately 2,100 Chrysler Group dealerships in the United States are certified Five Star dealers.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 10:51 AM

Porsche aims to defend Sebring title

American Le Mans Series, round 1 in Sebring, USA

Stuttgart. The American Le Mans Series heads into the new season with a true classic. The 12 hour race in Sebring/Florida, run for the 55th time, is the oldest sports car race in the USA and one of the greatest challenges for drivers and teams.

“This race is a gruelling test and an important indicator for how the rest of the season will run,“ says Porsche's head of motorsport, Hartmut Kristen. With the improved RS Spyder he wants to continue last year's success streak against competition that has not only strengthened in numbers. “Our objective this season is to successfully defend our title.“

Developed in Weissach, the sports prototype set standards in the LMP2 category in its first full racing season. With one overall victory and seven class wins, Porsche clinched not only the drivers title in the American Le Mans Series with Sascha Maassen and Lucas Luhr, but also secured the manufacturers title.

The series features twelve races for the first time. With factory support from Porsche, the 2006 team championship winners, Penske Motorsports, again fields two RS Spyders in the LMP2 class. Sharing the cockpit of the number 6 vehicle is title-defender Sascha Maassen (Germany) and his new partner Ryan Briscoe (Australia). The pair receives back-up from Emmanuel Collard (France). In the number 7 RS Spyder, Timo Bernhard (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France) again join forces to tackle the series. Boosting the duo for the season-opener is Helio Castroneves (Brazil), who won the famous Indianapolis 500 driving for Penske Racing in the US IndyCar series.

The Porsche contingent is strengthened through the entry of two new RS Spyders by the privateer US Dyson Racing team for the first time this season. As part of its successful customer sports programme, Porsche supports the team at the track. Manning the RS Spyder with the starting number 16 are Andy Wallace (Great Britain), Butch Leitzinger (USA) and Andy Lally (USA). Chris Dyson (USA) and Guy Smith (Great Britain) share driving duties in the number 20 RS Spyder. Fiercely contested last year in the American Le Mans Series, the LMP2 class has become even more competitive. With the entry from Acura, whose vehicles attracted attention with good test times, combined with the stronger Porsche representation there is now a new balance of power. More than double the number of entries start in the LMP2 class at Sebring than in the LMP1 category. Spectators can expect some breathtaking fights for positions between the LMP2 vehicles.

The Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on the extremely bumpy 5.950 kilometre airfield circuit in the heart of Florida is traditionally one of the season's highlights. Immense stress is placed not only on the cars but also the drivers, who must cope with around 5500 corners and 7000 gear changes during the race. Over the years, famous names like Juan Manuel Fangio, Stirling Moss, Hans Herrmann, Mario Andretti and Jacky Ickx have gone down on the winner's list of this great classic.

As the first manufacturer in the American Le Mans Series, Porsche has signed on the reigning champion of the LMP2 class, Sascha Maassen, and the 2006 GT2 class champion Joerg Bergmeister for its factory squad: Sascha Maassen has already secured four class victories with Porsche at Sebring. In the history of Florida's long-distance classic, Porsche is the most successful manufacturer by far, with the most overall victories (17), the most wins in succession (13 between 1976 and 1988), the most pole positions (9) and the most class victories (62). Porsche also heads another “Best Of“ list in Sebring, having led the field over a record 3997 laps by now.

The chances look promising that this number will reach the 4000 mark at the 55th running of the traditional race. Already at the winter tests in Sebring, the RS Spyder demonstrated that it was well prepared for the challenges of the coming season, with the sports prototypes from Weissach posting the best times on all three days.

With the strong Porsche entry, the manufacturer also aims to continue its success streak in the GT2 category for modified standard sports cars in the American Le Mans Series. Ten of the 19 GT2 vehicles that will start in Sebring are 911 GT3 RSR cars, eight of which are the new model based on the current 997 version. Title defender Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) contests the season with Johannes van Overbeek (USA) in one of the brand new 911 GT3 RSRs run by Flying Lizard Motorsports. In Sebring, Marc Lieb (Germany) supports the pair. Germany's Wolf Henzler, Patrick Long (USA) and Robin Liddell (Great Britain) share one of the two new 911 GT3 RSRs fielded by Tafel Racing. For the first time, the renowned IndyCar team, Rahal Lettermann Racing, competes in the American Le Mans Series with the new 911 GT3 RSR. Co-team owner Bobby Rahal signed up 1987 Sebring winner Ralf Kelleners (Germany) and Tom Millner (USA). For the Sebring classic, his son Graham joins the duo at the wheel of the sports car built in Porsche's Motorsport Centre at Weissach.

The Twelve Hours of Sebring takes off on Saturday, 17 March 2007 at 10am local time (4pm CET)

American Le Mans Series – 2007 Calendar
17 March, Sebring/Florida
31 March, St. Petersburg/Florida
14 April, Long Beach/California
21 April, Houston/Texas
19 May, Salt Lake City/Utah
07 July, Lime Rock/Connecticut
21 July, Mid-Ohio/Ohio
11 August, Road America/Wisconsin
25 August, Mosport/Canada
01 September, Detroit/Michigan
06 October, Road Atlanta (Petit Le Mans)/Georgia
20 October, Laguna Seca/California

Posted by Frank at 7:41 AM

GM Exec: With BLS wagon, "Cadillac is in Europe for the long haul"

BLS Wagon Announced

By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman

The travel schedule for March is heavy, but I thought I’d check in with some news from Europe.

The Geneva show was another good one for General Motors. Among other introductions, we unveiled two sporty Opels that made a splash: the Opel Corsa OPC and the Opel GTC Concept, both great indicators of the current focus and direction of Opel Design.

We also showed, for the first time in Europe, the all-new Cadillac CTS, first unveiled at the Detroit show in January. In fact, Cadillac made a lot of news last week. We took the wraps off an all-new 2.9-liter, 250-hp diesel V6 that will be used primarily in Europe, and will be introduced in the Cadillac CTS in 2009.

The availability of diesel powerplants is obviously hugely important in Europe, and this is something we’ve needed to make Cadillac a stronger player in the market, so I’m glad it’s in the offing.

Wagons are another popular item in the European auto market that Cadillac had been lacking — until now. For the first time in its 104-year history, Cadillac will have a pure wagon in its lineup later this year when the BLS Wagon goes on sale in Europe.

The BLS Wagon will give European customers another option when it comes to our flagship brand, a new reason to take another look at Cadillac. And they’ll have their choice of gasoline engine turbo-diesel, manual or automatic transmission.

This vehicle is another example of our global product development organization in action, sizing up what is needed in which market, and quickly and efficiently delivering.

In this case, we’re continuing to build the Cadillac brand in Europe, where we aim for it to be a true contender in the luxury market, so we’re expanding its offerings, both in terms of product and powertrain, to meet the needs and expectations of European customers.

That being said, we’re not naïve about it. No one expects Cadillac just to appear in European showrooms and take the continent by storm. That’s crazy. For one thing, we know the established competition is far too formidable for that to happen.

We also know we have to take our time to introduce ourselves to European customers, and show them what Cadillac is all about. So we’re building the Cadillac portfolio in Europe, and its momentum, gradually. But make no mistake: Cadillac is in Europe for the long haul.

Posted by Frank at 7:38 AM

Porsche awards engineering scholarships

244 Ferry Porsche Prize winners honored at the Weissach Development Center

Wiedeking: “The shortage of engineers is putting our ability to compete at risk”

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, and the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Culture, Education, Youth and Sport yesterday honored the 244 winners of the Ferry Porsche Prize 2006 at the Weissach Development Center. This prize has been awarded to the top school leavers in mathematics and physics/technology at the general and vocational high schools since 2001. With this prize the two partners want to make their contribution towards increasing the appeal of scientific and technical subjects at high schools in the state of Baden-Württemberg.

In his celebratory speech, Dr. Wendelin Wiedeking, President and CEO of Porsche AG, said that the number of German high school students going on to study a technical subject at university remained considerably lower than the number required on the labor market. “We urgently have to do something to reverse this trend as quickly as possible. Otherwise, the ability of Germany and its companies to compete in the international arena will be at risk”, said the Porsche manager to the prize winners and their parents in Weissach. Although the Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer has always been one of the most attractive employers for university graduates in Germany and is thus fortunate to be able to select the best from a large number of applicants, Porsche is also extremely dependent on the supplier industry and this has been facing an obvious shortage of new blood coming into the profession: “This is a very dangerous development”, warned Wiedeking. “After all, these suppliers, who are often highly innovative, are the backbone of the German automotive industry.”

If we do not succeed in encouraging more young people to enter technical professions in the long-term, the Porsche manager believes that this will have immeasurable consequences for Germany as an economic location: “Who will develop top, internationally competitive products ‘Made in Germany’ ready to be launched onto the market in the future if there are no longer enough young engineers coming from the universities?” asked Wiedeking. In addition, he highlighted that only engineers and technical scientists are able to develop the new technology of the future which could be used to overcome the enormous challenges ahead relating to climate change.

The Baden-Württemberg Minister for Culture and Education, Helmut Rau, also emphasized the importance of future scientific and technical graduates: “Our society needs qualified and motivated engineers and scientists who will secure the future of our country with ideas and inventions that they then launch onto the market.” Rau called upon young women in particular to choose the relevant training courses and studies: “If we no longer look at technical innovation exclusively from a male perspective, then we make way for additional ideas, creativity and innovation”, said the Minister. The preconception that women are not suited to technical occupations has been proven wrong in many other countries.

The Ferry Porsche Prize, named after the founder of the Porsche sports car who died in 1998, has been awarded since 2001. Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Ferry Porsche’s youngest son and Chairman of the Supervisory Board at the sports car manufacturer, also spoke to the prize winners in person this year. In his speech, he recalled the construction office being founded by his grandfather Ferdinand Porsche in Stuttgart in 1931, which produced not only the Auto Union racing cars but also the VW “Beetle”, perhaps the most famous car in the world, during the thirties.

His father, Ferry, was the first to build a sports car in 1948, which bore the Porsche name as its official brand. By starting series production of these vehicles, Ferry Porsche laid the foundations for today’s sports car factory. “My father was instrumental in the company’s success right up until his death in 1998 – first as the owner, managing director and head developer, then as Chairman of the Supervisory Board and later as an experienced advisor”, said Dr. Porsche, praising his father’s life’s work.

The highlight of this year’s celebration in Weissach was once again the awarding of six scholarships for internships abroad. The lucky winners were Julia Gentner (Kopernikus-Gymnasium Aalen-Wasseralfingen), Gregor Glomb (Lessing-Gymnasium Karlsruhe), Charlotte Gunsilius (Gymnasium Königin-Olga-Stift Stuttgart), Bastian Hettich (Lise-Meitner-Gymnasium Remseck/Neckar), Till Krämer (Rechberg-Gymnasium Donzdorf) and Florian Winke (Scheffold-Gymnasium Schwäbisch Gmünd). The winners have the opportunity to complete a four-week internship at one of the sports car manufacturer’s sales subsidiaries abroad during Summer 2007.

Source: Porsche

Posted by Frank at 7:34 AM

Democrats Plan to Press Automakers on Fuel Efficiency

House Democrats, emboldened to act on global warming, intend to push automakers at a hearing next week to accept higher fuel-economy standards. The new leadership sees control of Congress as a chance to break through years of industry opposition to improved gasoline mileage. Auto executives are expected to argue that any major increases would cost the industry billions of dollars.

Posted by Frank at 7:26 AM

'Remote Start Envy' Easily Cured

Affordable Systems Allow Users to Warm-Up Their Cars With the Push of a Button

Five Quick Steps to a Successful Remote Start Purchase

VISTA, Calif. -- Good news: the first day of summer is just 15 weeks away! If that seems like a long time from now, and the snowman in your front yard isn't showing any signs of melting yet, then there's probably still plenty of time to get your money's worth out of a new remote start system for your car this winter.

In case you're not familiar with the term, remote start allows you to start your car by remote control. When you push a button on your keychain remote, your car's engine will start -- from up to a mile away with Viper and Python SST systems -- activating your heater and defroster at the same time.

So when you finally leave the comfort of your home or office and trudge outside into the elements, your car will be warm and ice-free, and you'll be ready to tackle your commute in a more civilized fashion than that poor schlub a few doors down, who is once again frantically flailing-away at his windshield with a plastic ice-scraper.

Though available as a factory option on certain new vehicles, remote start systems are primarily sold at nationwide consumer electronics chains and mobile electronics specialist retailers as an add-on. Remote start can be added to virtually any automatic transmission vehicle except certain Mercedes Benz "smart key" models, so if you're sick and tired of climbing into a freezing car all winter long then you're in luck! Here are five quick steps to a successful remote start installation:

(You'd Better) Shop Around: You can start your research online at websites like www.viper.com or www.pythoncarsecurity.com but you should also go to the actual stores that are going to do the work. Talk to the installers and ask them if they are MECP certified. (MECP stands for Mobile Electronics Certified Professional.)

Range! You'll see remote start systems advertised "Starting at $99," but you will probably want to step-up from entry-level models. According to Kennedy Gammage of Directed Electronics, one of the things you'll want to pay extra for is range, "because with remote start, range equals reliability." The longer the range (up to a mile with Spread Spectrum systems) the more confident you'll be that your car is warming up.

2-Way! The other thing you'll want to compare prices on is 2-Way. That means that the remote on your keychain is not just a 1-Way transmitter that sends a radio signal to your car. Instead, it's a 2-Way transceiver that receives a radio signal back from your car, confirming that it's started! How cool is that?

Bypass and Interface: If you ask about bypass and interface, the installer will know you're a knowledgeable customer! This is another part you will probably need to buy when adding remote start to your car. Since your car's anti-theft system is looking for your special key in the ignition (to prevent thieves from hot-wiring) and there is no key present during remote start, this interface will bypass anti-theft only during remote start, leaving it functional at all other times.

Source: Directed Electronics

Posted by Frank at 7:23 AM

Mustang with a cause

Ford trim package splashes a touch of pink to attract women, fight breast cancer

DEARBORN -- Ford Motor Co. is readying yet another version of its popular Mustang pony car, this time with a feminine touch.

The Detroit News has learned that the automaker plans to offer a "Warriors in Pink" trim package for the sports car this summer to help raise money for breast cancer research and attract new buyers to the Mustang nameplate, which has seen sales slip in recent months.

Details are still being worked out, but the new version is expected to feature pink stripes on the exterior and pink contrast stitching inside. It will be available only with a V-6 engine, but customers can opt for either a convertible or a hardtop. A couple of colors will be offered, including black. Pink will not be one of them.

Posted by Frank at 7:22 AM

Cadillac bets on BLS wagon, built and sold in Europe

GENEVA, Switzerland -- To boost its European sales, Cadillac will introduce a midsize luxury station wagon late this year.

The BLS is the first station wagon in Cadillac's 104-year history and will be built in Sweden alongside the BLS sedan, which was also developed exclusively for sale in Europe and is the brand's best-selling vehicle there.

Luxury wagons are extremely popular in Europe, and Cadillac thinks the BLS wagon could eventually account for 50% or more of BLS sales. The luxury brand sold 1,300 BLS sedans out of 3,000 total sales in Europe last year.

Posted by Frank at 7:21 AM

Ford set to unveil Aston Martin plans

LONDON -- A bidding group fronted by former Benetton and BAR motor racing team boss David Richards said it will hold a news conference today, and sources familiar with the matter said it will announce it is buying a majority stake in luxury car maker Aston Martin from Ford Motor Co. The sources said Ford will receive about $872 million (450 million pounds) from the deal.

Posted by Frank at 7:17 AM

Dodge Adds to March's Basketball Frenzy with "Dribble for a Dodge" Challenge

Consumers to dribble for a chance to win 2007 Dodge Ram and two tickets to college basketball's championship game

Dodge is putting the ball in the consumer's court this March as the NCAA college basketball tournaments and National Truck Month get underway. About 80 determined dribblers will bring their "A" game to Atlanta for the "Dribble for a Dodge" challenge, a basketball dribbling endurance contest. After hours of continuous dribbling, one lucky contestant will be crowned the Dodge MVD -- "Most Valuable Dribbler" and will score an all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab with the legendary HEMI(R) engine plus two tickets to the NCAA championship basketball game.

When: Tuesday, March 13, 2007
* Contestant registration closes at 7:30 a.m. (ET)
* Event begins at 8 a.m. (ET)

Where: Morehouse College
Forbes Arena
830 Westview Dr.
S.W. Atlanta, Ga. 30314

Details: To tip off National Truck Month with "No Charge HEMI" promotion
in March and celebrate college basketball's biggest tournament,
Dodge is challenging consumers to prove that they are just as
long lasting and tough on a basketball court as the Dodge Ram is
on the road. But you don't have to win a dribbling contest to
get a HEMI engine. As part of the "No Charge HEMI" promotion,
anyone buying a Dodge Ram 1500 or Dodge Durango during March
gets a HEMI upgrade at no charge.

Other: Dribble details:

* The tip off -- About 80 contestants will command the court on a
regulation size basketball court and begin dribbling their
HEMI(R)-branded basketballs at the referee's whistle

* Catch the live action -- The challenge will intensify as each
contestant "drops the ball" and is eliminated from game play

* Rewarded with a Ram -- The grand prize winner who outlasts the
other contestants will win an all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 and two
tickets to the 2007 NCAA championship basketball game

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 7:14 AM

March 11, 2007

The 2008 Porsche Cayenne is here. Get a price quote.

For far too long, those of us with a desire for performance and a need for practicality have had to compromise. That is, until the Porsche Cayenne came roaring up in our rear view mirrors. The new Cayenne takes the original concept of a sporting vehicle with utility and pushes it to the next level.

The most obvious changes are on the outside. The front fascia now has restyled headlights and air intakes for a new more aggressive look. The rear valance features updated exhaust openings and taillights. Across the model line, the engines utilize a new direct fuel injection system to deliver more performance and fuel efficiency. And now the new Cayenne models are ready for you to experience at your Porsche dealer.

Get a price quote on the 2008 Porsche Cayenne.

Posted by Frank at 10:50 AM

Video: New Porsche racing film online

Racing is an opportunity to test new ideas and apply the lessons learned on the track to road-going models. After 28,000 racing victories, Porsche has learned quite a bit.

Case in point: the new Cayenne. The new film, "Rewards of Winning" documents the racing heritage and experiences that led to this remarkable vehicle. Watch it and you'll understand why the new Cayenne is the kind of vehicle only Porsche could build. Afterwards, take a 360-degree tour of the new Cayenne in sight and sound and view complete specifications. We think you'll agree winning does have its rewards.

Porsche film: The Rewards of Winning.

Posted by Frank at 10:42 AM

Take a lap in the Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Built as a homologation model for international GT racing, the 911 GT3 RS ups the ante for others claiming to be street-legal racecars.

Compared to the 911 GT3, the RS is lighter, due to the liberal application of carbon fiber, and quicker, taking just 4.0 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill. The throttle-hungry, normally aspirated, 3.6-liter, flat six delivers 415 hp to the rear wheels. And the wider rear track borrowed from the 911 Turbo ensures every bit of it is put to use. The first examples of the 911 GT3 RS are rolling out of the factory as we speak. Who knows? You just might catch a glimpse of one ripping up a street near you.

Check out the race video, wallpapers, downloadable sounds and more.

Posted by Frank at 10:36 AM

Porsche wallpaper: 1986 Paris-Dakar Runner

At 13,000 kilometers, the Paris-Dakar is one of the toughest races in history. In 1986, Porsche entered three 959s to compete. The 959 featured a six-cylinder boxer engine with a displacement of 2.8 liters and twin turbochargers outputting near 400 hp. All three completed the race. Two stood on the podium first and second overall. To add insult to injury, the non-entry "support" 959 crossed the line sixth overall.

Get the 1024x768 wallpaper here.

Posted by Frank at 10:31 AM

World’s billionaires prefer a Volvo over a Bugatti

Unlike mere millionaires, who may flaunt wealth with flashy rides, some of the world’s top billionaires own cars as utterly average as their middle-class childhoods. At least five of the wealthiest people in the world share traits that make them thrifty when it comes to cars.

One reason is simply age. “By the time a person has become a billionaire, if they haven’t inherited it, they are often older,” says Rod Westmoreland, a private wealth advisor for Merrill Lynch’s Private Banking & Investment Group. “Flashy, expensive cars are not a priority for these people.”

Billionaire Warren Buffett, the second richest person in the world, according to the 2007 Forbes list of the wealthiest people and among our roster of five frugal billionaires, recently traded in a six-year-old Lincoln Town Car for a 2006 Cadillac DTS.

Posted by Frank at 10:20 AM

Analysts say GM may have profits to report

DETROIT - General Motors Corp. says it will do something next week that’s a rarity these days for U.S.-based automakers: report a profit.

GM in January predicted a fourth-quarter net profit when it announced that accounting troubles would delay its quarterly and full-year financial results.

Analysts don’t expect the profit to be huge, but say it’s a sign that GM’s restructuring plan, or at least its massive cost cuts, is beginning to take hold.

Posted by Frank at 10:19 AM

Reports of fires leads to big Chrysler recall

WASHINGTON - After dozens of reports of fires in Dodge Durango and Jeep Liberty sport utility vehicles, DaimlerChrysler AG’s Chrysler Group recalled nearly 500,000 vehicles Friday.

Chrysler said it had received 66 reports of fires in Dodge Durango SUVs from the 2004-2006 model years because of electrical overloads in the driver’s side instrument panel below the dashboard. The automaker said it was recalling 328,424 Durangos.

The automaker was also recalling 149,605 Jeep Liberty SUVs from the 2006-2007 model years to fix the heating-ventilation-air conditioning blower motor. Chrysler had received a dozen reports of fires from Liberty owners.

Posted by Frank at 10:18 AM

Toyota Dealers Offer Discount On Newly Redesigned Tundra

Toyota Motor Corp. says some of its dealers are offering as much as a $1,500 discount on the basic work truck version of Toyota's newly redesigned Tundra truck, just barely one month after it went on sale. The discount for the Texas-built large truck reflects the intense competition in this lucrative segment, and the challenge Toyota faces in its effort to substantially expand its sales in a segment long dominated by Detroit brands.

The discount is a one-month, nationwide program that began this month and is described by Toyota as "another tool," to spur sales, in addition to relatively low APR and lease deals Toyota has already offered since the outset.

Brian Smith, corporate manager of truck operations at Toyota's U.S. sales unit in Torrance, Calif., said the program should help dealers be able to prod more basic work truck buyers who tend to be "either credit-challenged or battling with negative equity" with their existing vehicles to buy new Tundras.

"At this point in time we feel like many of our [basic-work-truck] buyers are facing those constraints" and need a further assistance to help them buy trucks, Mr. Smith said.

While the Tundra launch is still in its early stages, Toyota's top management in Japan is concerned about whether the company can meet a target of selling 200,000 new Tundras this year, according to senior Toyota executives who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Posted by Frank at 10:17 AM

Nissan Announces Pricing on 2007 Sentra SE-R

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan today announced pricing on the all-new Sentra SE-R and Sentra SE-R Spec V, the performance versions of the new larger, more powerful 2007 Nissan Sentra sedan.

The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Sentra SE-R, which features a 177-horsepower 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, is $19,400.

The Sentra SE-R Spec V, which comes standard with a specially modified 200-horsepower/180 lb-ft torque 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and unique suspension, brakes and tires, has an MSRP of $19,900.

Along with the increase in size and standard equipment, the 2007 Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V offer dramatically improved power – increases of more than 50 and 25 horsepower*, respectively, over the 2006 SE-R and SE-R Spec V models.

“There is simply no comparison between the 2007 SE-R models and previous generations – especially in the driving experience,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “This is an all-new player in the market – larger and roomier, with more standard features, utility, technology and style. And, with 200 horsepower for under $20,000, we think the new SE-R offers the best performance value for the money on the market today.”

Both Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V are equipped with a range of unique performance-oriented equipment, including standard 17-inch wheels, 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), specially tuned electric power steering (EPS) and unique front and rear sport fascias, sport grille, side sill spoilers, rear decklid spoiler and exhaust finisher.

Inside the Sentra SE-R cabin are a number of unique SE-R features, including an exclusive black interior color, sport bucket front seats with SE-R stitching, unique seat fabrics, red seat belts (Spec V only), aluminum foot pedal pads, leather-appointed steering wheel, leather-appointed shift knob (Spec V only), and an additional two-gauge meter pack.

Like all 2007 Sentra models, the new SE-R also offers an array of comfort and convenience features including standard power windows and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD 6-speaker audio, an integrated overhead compact disc holder, cupholders and an oversized glove compartment. Optional features include a 340-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system, factory installed satellite radio and Nissan’s Intelligent Key keyless entry system (SE-R only).

Standard safety features for the Sentra SE-R include an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage front air bags and occupant classification system for the front passenger seat, front seat side air bags, side curtain air bags (for front and rear outboard occupant head protection), front seat Active Head Restraints and Zone Body construction.

Available packages for the 2007 Sentra SE-R include Audio Package, Sunroof Package, Satellite Radio (XM or Sirius), Intelligent Key (SE-R only), Helical Limited-Slip Differential (Spec V only) and All-Season Tires (Spec V, no charge).

The new Sentra is available in five other models: Sentra 2.0 with 6-speed manual, priced at $14,750; Sentra 2.0 with CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for $15,550; Sentra 2.0 S with 6-speed manual, priced at $15,650; Sentra 2.0 S with CVT, $16,450; and Sentra 2.0 SL with CVT, $18,400.

In North America, Nissan\'s operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissannews.com.
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* 2006 Sentra SE-R horsepower ratings per SAE J1349 JUN1995; 2007 Sentra SE-R horsepower ratings per SAE J1395 AUG2004

Posted by Frank at 10:07 AM