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March 31, 2007

Hoop dreams, blimpin'

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

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

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

Continue reading"Hoop dreams, blimpin'"

Posted by Frank at 5:35 PM

Record Number of First-Time Bidders Attend Barrett-Jackson

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 5:35 PM

GM, Carnegie Mellon to Demonstrate Vehicles that Drive Themselves

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 5:31 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 5:29 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 7:29 AM

Enterprise Rent-A-Car to Acquire Vanguard Car Rental

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

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Posted by Frank at 7:25 AM

GM Wins Best Investor Relations Web Site Award from IR Magazine

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 7:22 AM

Nissan's Pitch For Mini-Car: Accessorize It

Pino is Secondary In Spots That Woo Young Women

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 7:18 AM

March 30, 2007

Pope's old VW has got great book value

A Holy Ride - Infamous Car Selling Again on eBay

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:17 PM

Muniz to Compete As a Professional Driver

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:14 PM

Web voters choose Chrysler Derby faves

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:31 PM

Westfalia Van celebrates three years of Mercedes conversions

* 5,555 Mercedes-Benz Vianos converted since 2003

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:13 PM

Chrysler Group Announces Pricing on 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:06 PM

VW launches fuel saving initiative in China

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:05 PM

Environmental trends align GM brands

* General Motors Europe focusing on small and compact models

* Natural gas and ethanol as low-emission alternatives

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:59 PM

Finance VP leaves Ford

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 12:58 PM

General Motors Increase Investment and Capacity at New Russian Assembly Plant

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

* Total investment now at to $300 million

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:56 PM

Nissan moves Mexico finance headquarters

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:55 PM

VW house mag wins award

VW publication impresses international jury of experts

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:52 PM

Nissan adds NISMO 350Z to lineup

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:45 PM

Mercedes uses computer tracking to measure driver distraction

* A human-machine simulator evaluates driver distraction

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:39 PM

Ford offers ethanol for cops [in their cars]

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:35 PM

Volvo drops ad agency during review

Incumbent Euro Dropped From Volvo Review

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 12:32 PM

Ford supporting hydrogen research in Australia

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:28 PM

Younger Purchaser Profile Marks a New Trend in Custom Car Collectors

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:27 PM

Sony Renews Sponsorship for NHRA Sport Compact Racing Series

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:16 PM

Nissan Introduces Innovative Valve Control Technology

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:12 AM

Alfonso Albaisa New Vice President of Nissan Design Europe

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

Albaisa replaces Satoru Tai, who will return to Japan.

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:10 AM

Chevrolet Taxi Van Provides New Yorkers Greater Mobility

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:09 AM

S.C. Dealer sells 13 millionth Volkswagen

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:21 AM

General Motors Recognized Among Top 50 in Diversity

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:20 AM

Mercedes-Benz Statement in Response to EPA SCR Guidelines

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:11 AM

GM's Stealth Minivans

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 4:10 AM

Report: No bonuses for top GM executives

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

Posted by Frank at 4:00 AM

Pro Golfer to win Orange County Chopper

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 3:55 AM

Bosch Carbon Dioxide Sensor Saves Fuel

New Control Strategy Reduces Energy Requirement

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

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Posted by Frank at 3:52 AM

Honda Wants to Be Known for Safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 3:50 AM

Gasoline prices set to hit new record highs

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 3:49 AM

March 29, 2007

Chrysler Group the First to Offer SIRIUS Backseat TV

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

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

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

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

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

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

Continue reading"Chrysler Group the First to Offer SIRIUS Backseat TV"

Posted by Frank at 4:55 PM

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

* Don Petco restored a rare 1964 Dodge Ramcharger 330

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

* Winners and their vehicles will attend the 2007 SEMA Show

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:48 PM

NADA's Automotive Career Month Kicks Off Next Week

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:43 PM

When to Hang Up the Car Keys?

Special Report In April 2 Issue Examines Elderly Drivers

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

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

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

Continue reading"When to Hang Up the Car Keys?"

Posted by Frank at 4:42 PM

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:40 PM

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 4:37 PM

VW Jetta, Passat finalists for 2007 Advertising Awards

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:36 PM

Lear Honored by Toyota for Superior Supplier Diversity and Quality Excellence

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

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Posted by Frank at 4:35 PM

AMG turns 40 with an anniversary edition

CL65 AMG: THE NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE COUPE:

Also Available as "40th Anniversary" Limited Edition Model

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 10:19 AM

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 9:11 AM

Chevrolet Prepared to Unveil Three Minicar Concepts in New York

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:00 AM

Audi Announces 2008 R8 U.S. Pricing

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:57 AM

Honda Adds New Type R to Japanese Civic Lineup

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

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

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

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

Key Features of the Civic Type R:

Continue reading"Honda Adds New Type R to Japanese Civic Lineup"

Posted by Frank at 8:49 AM

XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Service Expands to 50 Markets

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:44 AM

Land Rover Offering SIRIUS Satellite Radio as Standard Equipment

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:42 AM

World Car of the Year Announces Top Three Finalists

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

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

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

-- Audi TT
-- Lexus LS460
-- MINI

Continue reading"World Car of the Year Announces Top Three Finalists"

Posted by Frank at 8:41 AM

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:40 AM

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:36 AM

Online exchange for real-world parking spaces

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:33 AM

U.S. Automakers Endorse Japan Currency Manipulation Act

Applaud Stabenow Legislation to Force Action Against Japanese Currency Misalignment

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:29 AM

Arkansas Enacts SEMA Street Rod/Custom Vehicle Bill

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:28 AM

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:27 AM

Volvo Selects Kenexa to Facilitate Global Strategic Recruiting Initiatives

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:24 AM

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:22 AM

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:21 AM

roadreport.mobi Pioneers Mobile-Internet Service for Motorists

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:20 AM

Bosch Start-Stop Systems Reduce Consumption, Emissions

BMW system featuring Bosch starter to begin series production in March

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

Continue reading"Bosch Start-Stop Systems Reduce Consumption, Emissions"

Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM

Hydrogen researchers try fuel cell powered plane

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:18 AM

Hyundai luxury ready to roll

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:17 AM

March 28, 2007

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 2:27 PM

Michelin Plans to Cover Los Angeles and Las Vegas for 2008

Prestigious Michelin Guides will select hotels and restaurants in both cities

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

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

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

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

Continue reading"Michelin Plans to Cover Los Angeles and Las Vegas for 2008"

Posted by Frank at 2:24 PM

Win a 2007 Kia Rondo

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:19 PM

Amelia Island Concours Taps Tom Cotter for Co-Chairman

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

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

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

Continue reading"Amelia Island Concours Taps Tom Cotter for Co-Chairman"

Posted by Frank at 2:12 PM

Valley Toyota Dealers Honor Latino Entrepreneurs

Toyota Issues Valley-Wide Call for Nominations

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:09 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:06 PM

General Motors seen not bidding for Chrysler

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

Posted by Frank at 2:05 PM

UAW to Resist Making Significant Concessions To Auto Companies

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 2:04 PM

UAW rejects new wage deal from Delphi

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

Posted by Frank at 2:03 PM

DaimlerChrysler Expands Concept Plug-in Hybrid Program

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:31 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:28 PM

Honda Continues Record Monthly Pace for Worldwide Auto Production

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:26 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:00 AM

DaimlerChrysler Awards Fellowships that Lead to Minority Media Ownership

* Reva Squire and Dale Murray Named 2007 Fellowship Recipients

* Fellows will participate in rigorous two-year curriculum

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:58 AM

Toyota Honors Top Suppliers For 2006

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:51 AM

Austin Mazda Dealer Reaches Iconic Status

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:48 AM

VW bags multiple ad awards

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:47 AM

Nissan Produces 2-Millionth Vehicle At Aguascalientes Plant

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:46 AM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:43 AM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:30 AM

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

* Inauguration with Governor Mark Sanford

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

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

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

* New Sprinter arrives in Spring

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:26 AM

Spring Breakers Save Time and Money with Vehicle Check-up

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:24 AM

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

Saab BioPower 100 Concept at New York Auto Show

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:22 AM

GM Dealers Fight Toyota in the Trenches

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:18 AM

In-Car Digital Radio News Service Developed by Audi

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:16 AM

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:15 AM

Toyota dealers move to put more vehicles on eBay

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:13 AM

Remarks by President Bush After Demonstration of Alternative Fuel Vehicles

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

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

10:39 A.M. EDT

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:12 AM

March 27, 2007

Weight rules limit Audi R10 in American Le Mans

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 11:28 AM

SUV market mirrors rest of car buyers

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:33 AM

Going to the Golf? Let Auto Europe Help

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

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

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

15% car hire discount applies to cars booked for:

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Posted by Frank at 9:31 AM

DaimlerChrysler Expands Concept Plug-in Hybrid Program

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:28 AM

MINI Offers SIRIUS Satellite Radio Factory Installed With Lifetime Subscription

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:25 AM

Government Sued for Release of Secret Safety Data

Six Years After TREAD Act Passes, Data Still Unavailable

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:22 AM

Eddie Griffin wrecks rare $1.5 million Ferrari

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 9:21 AM

Bentley to Launch Luxury Coupe at NYIAS

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 12:39 AM

Bentley Brooklands – the world’s most exclusive coupe

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

* The most powerful V8 engine Bentley has ever produced

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

* Powerful, muscular and rakish with classic British proportions

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:35 AM

Bentley Continental GT smashes world ice speed record

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:32 AM

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

Response to the challenges of the international automobile market

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:25 AM

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 12:23 AM

Land Rover's Freelander given top safety marks

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:20 AM

GM Charging Ahead with Volt

By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:18 AM

Volkswagen's high temp fuel cell wins award

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:16 AM

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:13 AM

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

Receives Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:12 AM

ACDelco TSS Scholarships Encourage Future Technicians, Reward Current Ones

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:11 AM

Toyota Brings Mobile Hybrid Experience to The 2007 Nashville Auto Show

Toyota's Mobile Experience Offers Look Inside Hybrid Synergy Drive

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:08 AM

Toyota Trucks Bring Adventure to The 2007 Nashville Auto Show

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:07 AM

Collins & Aikman Reaches Settlements with DOJ and SEC

DOJ Will Not Prosecute Company and SEC Will Not Assess Fine

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

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Posted by Frank at 12:04 AM

Lexus getting a facelift

To Woo Wealthy, Lexus Attempts Image Makeover

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 12:03 AM

March 26, 2007

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:41 PM

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:37 PM

NY Auto Show Announces Dozens of Debuts

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:33 PM

Chevrolet Cadillac of Twin Falls Awards Local Man 2007 Cobalt

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:29 PM

Pres. Bush and Auto CEOs Mingle at Mixed Fuel Demo

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

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

The South Lawn
11:11 A.M. EDT

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:26 PM

Automotive CEOs says Nation should invest in flexible fuel infrastructure

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:24 PM

Ohio Northern University Team Wins Robot of the Year

Injection Molding Cell Using KUKA KR3 Robot Wins National Robotics Challenge

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:18 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:13 PM

Shooting hoops from the Goodyear Blimp

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:12 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:10 PM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 2:09 PM

Nissan to Introduce Tiida in Europe

- Tiida Will be Launched in Selected Key Markets Across Europe

- On Sale From June 2007

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:44 AM

Hyundai to Unveil Concept Genesis Premium Sports Sedan

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:41 AM

MapQuest Sends Maps and Directions to Cell Phones

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:37 AM

Driving Cost Per Mile Calculated at 52.2 Cents for 2007

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:24 AM

Kyle Busch Scores 600th Win for Chevrolet in NASCAR

Bowtie Brand Continues Status as Winningest Manufacturer in NASCAR

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 9:02 AM

Big block corvettes featured at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:56 AM

Porsche RS Spyder debuts on Florida street circuit

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:43 AM

Ford debuts Fusion Car of Tomorrow at Bristol Motor Speedway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:30 AM

J.D. Powers Predicts Pickup Truck Sales Will Sizzle

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:27 AM

Honda Starts Ad Engines As Racing Season Gets Underway

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:27 AM

Mazda all over the American racing world

Automaker has busy week on and off the track

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

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

Continue reading"Mazda all over the American racing world"

Posted by Frank at 1:26 AM

Nissan Announces Successful Voluntary Transition Program

Plan Will Increase Manufacturing Efficiency

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:18 AM

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:17 AM

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:17 AM

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:02 AM

Toyota not among carmakers invited to White House

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 12:40 AM

UAW is becoming part of the solution

Union, carmakers are industry allies

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

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

Neither is correct.

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 12:34 AM

GM trails in bidding for Chrysler

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

Posted by Frank at 12:33 AM

IndyCar Series Homestead Race Report

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

Wheldon Dominates IndyCar Series Opener in Miami

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

Continue reading"IndyCar Series Homestead Race Report"

Posted by Frank at 12:03 AM

March 25, 2007

Emile Hirsch Takes the Lead in “Speed Racer”

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

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

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

Continue reading"Emile Hirsch Takes the Lead in “Speed Racer”"

Posted by Frank at 8:06 AM

DaimlerChrysler Named One of 50 Best Companies for Diversity

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

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

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

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

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

Continue reading"DaimlerChrysler Named One of 50 Best Companies for Diversity"

Posted by Frank at 7:57 AM

Porsche moves to keep VW in German hands

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 7:55 AM

DaimlerChrysler shares up amid talk of bid

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 7:54 AM

Nissan will buy out 12.5% of Tennessee work force

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

Posted by Frank at 7:49 AM

Buick Open Announces A Record Donation To Southeastern Michigan Charities

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

Continue reading"Buick Open Announces A Record Donation To Southeastern Michigan Charities"

Posted by Frank at 7:49 AM

Batmobile creator gets a street in his name

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 7:40 AM

March 23, 2007

Chevrolet Aims for 600th NASCAR Cup Series Win

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

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

Continue reading"Chevrolet Aims for 600th NASCAR Cup Series Win"

Posted by Frank at 11:13 AM

2007 Volkswagen Beetle receives 'best fleet value' award

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

Continue reading"2007 Volkswagen Beetle receives 'best fleet value' award"

Posted by Frank at 10:43 AM

NHTSA Chief to Keynote NY Auto Show's Safety Symposium

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

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

Posted by Frank at 10:27 AM

Taxi Innovation at the Auto Show

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

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

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

Continue reading"Taxi Innovation at the Auto Show"

Posted by Frank at 10:24 AM

California Goodyear Highway Hero Saves Lives in Arizona

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

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

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

Continue reading"California Goodyear Highway Hero Saves Lives in Arizona"

Posted by Frank at 10:22 AM

Earnhardt is a Sharpie at MINI 300

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

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

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

Continue reading"Earnhardt is a Sharpie at MINI 300"

Posted by Frank at 10:20 AM

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 10:15 AM

Volvo S80 Named 2007 AutoMundo Magazine Car of the Year

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

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

Continue reading"Volvo S80 Named 2007 AutoMundo Magazine Car of the Year"

Posted by Frank at 2:10 AM

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

Sibling Rivalry at Its Finest

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

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

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

Continue reading"2007 Saleen S281 and the New 2007 PJ/Saleen Special Edition"

Posted by Frank at 2:06 AM

Downtown Hoedown Returns to Hart Plaza

Chrysler Jeep Superstores as Title Sponsor

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

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

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

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

Continue reading"Downtown Hoedown Returns to Hart Plaza"

Posted by Frank at 1:59 AM

Geico wants you to act like a slimy lizard

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

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

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

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

Continue reading"Geico wants you to act like a slimy lizard"

Posted by Frank at 1:59 AM

GM Pledges to Reduce CO2 Emissions by 40%

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 1:57 AM

Mazda Announces Senior Management Changes

Eric Johnston Appointed Vice President Sales and Field Operations

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

Continue reading"Mazda Announces Senior Management Changes"

Posted by Frank at 1:52 AM

Concept Cars at the New York Auto Show

What will we be driving in 2010?

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

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

Continue reading"Concept Cars at the New York Auto Show"

Posted by Frank at 1:51 AM

Technology Meets Fashion During Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

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

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

Continue reading"Technology Meets Fashion During Mercedes Benz Fashion Week"

Posted by Frank at 1:50 AM

Polk Debuts Commercial Vehicle Loyalty Analysis

Industry exclusive offering measures customer loyalty and identifies conquest opportunities

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

Continue reading"Polk Debuts Commercial Vehicle Loyalty Analysis"

Posted by Frank at 1:49 AM

GM Lightens Load At Dealerships, Helps Redesign Them

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:49 AM

Honda owners to share in odometer settlement

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

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

How's that?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:48 AM

Gillette Turns NASCAR Drivers into Reality Show

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

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

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

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

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

Retail promotions will support the programming.

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

Filming has already wrapped.

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

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

Posted by Frank at 1:46 AM

March 22, 2007

The new V8 Power Unit for the BMW M3

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 10:15 AM

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 10:13 AM

Ford earns EPA award for conserving energy

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

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

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

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

Continue reading"Ford earns EPA award for conserving energy"

Posted by Frank at 9:17 AM

Ford Expedition wowing 'em online

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

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

Continue reading"Ford Expedition wowing 'em online"

Posted by Frank at 9:15 AM

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 9:12 AM

How do you use WD-40?

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

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

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

Continue reading"How do you use WD-40?"

Posted by Frank at 8:59 AM

National Survey Reveals 70% of Americans Concerned About Global Warming

80% Agree Urgent Government Action Is Needed to Improve Situation

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

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

Continue reading"National Survey Reveals 70% of Americans Concerned About Global Warming"

Posted by Frank at 8:55 AM

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:53 AM

Mag: Cadillac developing V12 flagship

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:51 AM

Oracle Expands Relationship With Subaru of America, Inc.

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:47 AM

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:45 AM

Volvo Names America's Top Hometown Heroes

Three Winners Announced in 5th Annual Volvo for life Awards

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:44 AM

The Lean Enterprise Institute Offers Workshops Help Western Companies Compete

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:42 AM

Chrysler Group Recognized for Safety Efforts

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:40 AM

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:39 AM

Can Toyota’s Scion keep its edge?

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:27 AM

Ford recalls F-150s over tailpipe fire fear

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:27 AM

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:27 AM

10 car songs that hit on all cylinders

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:27 AM

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:23 AM

Nissan Reports February Sales in Europe

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM

Toyota Counters NHTSA Crash Test Result

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM

Acura Brings Sponsored Events To Fans Missing The Action

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

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

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

Posted by Frank at 8:19 AM

March 21, 2007

President Bush tours Ford's Kansas City Hybrid Plant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 7:01 AM

Mazda partners with major Karting world brands

Automaker commits over $100,000 to grassroots support

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:47 AM

VW TSI: More PS, Less CO2

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

TSI stands for maximum power with minimum fuel consumption

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:46 AM

Fusion gives Ford an on/offline hit

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

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

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

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

According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 New Autoshopper.com Study SM, 77 percent of new vehicle buyers consult independent online resources during their search for a new vehicle. Here are some verbatim comments about the Ford Fusion posted to Yahoo! Autos (www.autos.yahoo.com), one of the industry’s most visited automotive Web sites:

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:37 AM

The Volkswagen Tiguan, virtually German

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:31 AM

Ford boasts hybrid lineup

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:23 AM

GM Partners with CDC, Foundation to Improve Emergency Crash Response

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:21 AM

Ford using video podcast to bring consumers closer to the Edge

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:17 AM

Mazda2, lots of compact fun for you

• MAZDA2, the first Zoom-Zoom choice

• Superior fuel economy through lightness and compactness

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:09 AM

GM's Approach to Energy Security and Climate Change

What We Believe Will Make a Difference

By Beth Lowery
Vice President, GM Environment and Energy

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 6:06 AM

Ford shows Pres. Bush its breakthrough plug-in hybrid

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

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

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

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 5:37 AM

Consumer Reports Strengthens its Policies in the Wake of its Flawed Infant Car Seat Crash Tests

Review of crash-test story by independent experts found series of misjudgments, miscommunication with outside lab led to incorrect crash test data

NEW YORK -- Consumer Reports has completed its review of the erroneous crash-test data in its recent report on infant car seats and announced that it is strengthening internal policies and procedures to prevent similar mistakes from happening.

"We made a mistake, but we're committed to correcting it, preventing similar ones and most importantly continuing to serve the consumer interest," said Jim Guest, president of Consumers Union, the non-profit publisher of Consumer Reports. "We've also not lost sight of our original goal and intend to work with leading experts to develop more realistic crash simulations, improve usability, and remind parents to keep children safely restrained." The review concludes that Consumer Reports set out to raise the bar for car- seat safety -- but stumbled instead into methodological errors with misleading results.

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Posted by Frank at 5:37 AM

Ford, ethanol fuel providers work to increase availability of E85 in Midwest states

* Consumer awareness, fuel availability and price differential all key to customer shift to alternative fuel use

* Partnership results in nation's first ethanol corridor

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company is continuing its efforts to promote the availability and use of E85 through ongoing partnerships with Vera Sun Energy Corporation and the Missouri Farmers Association (MFA).

Most recently, Ford sent letters to all 29,000 of its Ford Flexible Fuel Vehicle owners in Missouri to help them locate current E85 stations in their state. Although there are presently a limited number of stations offering E85 fuel, Ford, MFA and Vera Sun Energy Corporation joined together last year to create the nation's first E85 pathway across Illinois and Missouri.

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Posted by Frank at 5:36 AM

Virginia Enacts Pro-Hobbyist Law to Recognize Replicas as Distinct Class

WASHINGTON -- Car hobbyists and related businesses scored another major victory when a version of SEMA model legislation to create a statutory titling and registration class for replica vehicles was passed by the Virginia General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Tim Kaine. The new law goes into effect on July 1, 2007. Virginia joins Washington, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Missouri, Montana and Rhode Island as states that have enacted similar bills into law.

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Posted by Frank at 5:35 AM

March 20, 2007

Nissan Europe Announces Senior Management Changes Effective April 1, 2007

- Hidetoshi Imazu Appointed Chairman of Management Committee for Europe

- Trevor Mann Appointed as Senior Vice President of Manufacturing, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

TRAPPES, France -- Nissan Europe has announced two senior appointments as part of the recent global management changes, both effective April 1, 2007.

Hidetoshi Imazu, senior vice president, vehicle production engineering division, is appointed executive vice president, manufacturing and supply chain management of Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., and chairman of the management committee for Europe. Imazu will be proposed as a director of the company at Nissan's annual general shareholders meeting in June.

Imazu replaces Hiroto Saikawa, executive vice president for purchasing, who will take on the role as chairman of the management committee for the Americas, replacing Carlos Ghosn.

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Posted by Frank at 4:34 PM

Ford Awards 50 Edges in 50 states on ABC's 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition'

- ABC's hit show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" partners with Ford on "Edge across America."

- Ford to award a precedent-setting 50 Ford Edges, with one grand prize winner receiving an additional "Extreme Garage Makeover."

- Viewers will submit inspirational stories at www.edgeacrossamerica.com now through May 20.

DEARBORN, Mich. -- ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and Ford will "Edge Across America" in a promotion that provides one deserving family in each of the 50 states a new Ford Edge, America's hottest crossover vehicle, and one grand prize winner an Extreme Garage Makeover to go with their Edge. In addition, in the episode airing Sunday, April 8, (8:00 p.m. ET), The Jones family from Mississippi will be the first family to receive a new Ford Edge and an Extreme Garage Makeover.

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Posted by Frank at 4:31 PM

Nevada State Senator Warren Hardy Introduces 'Motor Vehicle Owners' Right To Repair Act'

ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- "It's with great enthusiasm that motoring consumers and the automotive aftermarket applaud State Senator Warren Hardy, II, (R-Las Vegas) for his introduction of The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, SB 379", stated David Parde, president, The Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE).

Several State Legislators have taken a stand in favor of motoring consumers and small business with their introduction of The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act. Vehicles that are 1994 and newer (and some earlier models) are equipped with computers that control the repair information on systems such as: air bags, brakes, steering mechanisms, tire pressure, oil changes, climate control, ignition keys and systems, batteries, transmissions, radio and sound systems, transmissions and fuel injection. The only sure way for motorists to have these systems and their entire vehicle repaired and parts replaced is to return to the car dealerships.

"Motoring consumers believe that because they own their vehicles that they actually have the ability to choose where they have their repairs done. They could be in for a real shock. Often, the independent repair technician must refer the motorists back to the car dealerships.

Continue reading"Nevada State Senator Warren Hardy Introduces 'Motor Vehicle Owners' Right To Repair Act'"

Posted by Frank at 4:30 PM

Bush Visits UAW Facilities

Union Calls for Incentives to Build Advanced Technologies in U.S.

DETROIT -- As President Bush visited UAW members in Kansas City, Kan., and Claycomo, Mo., today, the union called for federal action to encourage investment in domestic production of hybrid and clean diesel vehicles.

"We're pleased that the President of the United States could join our members and see the top-quality, highly relevant fuel-saving vehicles that are made by the domestic auto industry in union-represented plants," said UAW President Ron Gettelfinger.

"We hope the President will also join us in supporting incentives to bring the manufacture of hybrids, clean diesel and their key components in the United States," said Gettelfinger.

President Bush visited a General Motors assembly plant in Kansas City, Kan. where members of UAW Local 31 assemble the hybrid Saturn Aura, and the Ford assembly plant in Claycomo, Mo., where members of UAW Local 249 assemble the hybrid Ford Escape.

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Posted by Frank at 4:29 PM

Quarterfinalists Selected in “Chrysler Sebring Hats Off to the Derby” Hat Design Contest

Sophisticated to Outrageous - Hat Designs Include Convertible Soft-top Material

* Top hat designs chosen as 15 contest quarterfinalists
* Public votes for favorite hat designs from March 20-26 at www.ChryslerSebringHatsOfftotheDerby.com
* Five semifinalists to produce hat design, including material from the Sebring Convertible soft top
* Three finalists receive weekend trip to the 133rd Kentucky Derby and chance to win an all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

Auburn Hills -- The top 15 quarterfinalists have been chosen from hundreds of entries in the “Chrysler Sebring Hats Off to the Derby” national hat design contest. Contestants now move to the online voting portion of the contest, where the public will help determine whose hat is worthy of wearing to the Derby. Three finalists will win a weekend trip to the 133rd Kentucky Derby and the grand prize winner will receive an all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible.

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Posted by Frank at 4:26 PM

Chrysler Group Recognizes 2006 National Dealers of the Year and Managers of the Year

- "Best of the best" from across the U.S. honored at award ceremony

- 15 dealers and managers receive top honor for outstanding overall performance in 2006

- Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda: "Operational excellence at the dealership makes us all winners: our dealers, our customers and our company."

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. and AUSTIN -- The Chrysler Group awarded 15 dealer principals and managers with the 2006 Dealer of the Year and Manager of the Year Award in five different categories. This year's award ceremony was held from March 14 - 16 in Austin, Texas, hosted by Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom LaSorda, Steven Landry, Vice President - Sales and Field Operations, and an Executive team from the company's Sales, Service, Parts, Financial and Marketing organizations.

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Posted by Frank at 11:14 AM

SIRIUS Satellite Radio to Broadcast Live From the 2007 Winter Music Conference

Special live DJ sets from superstars Paul van Dyk, Paul Oakenfold, Bob Sinclar, Robbie Rivera and others

NEW YORK -- SIRIUS Satellite Radio today announced that it will broadcast from the 2007 Winter Music Conference live from Miami's South Beach featuring five days of the sexiest dance radio on radio. Beginning March 20, SIRIUS will air exclusive mixes on the Area 33 channel, which was recently nominated for International Dance Music Radio Station of the year.

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Posted by Frank at 11:10 AM

All Roads Lead to the New York International Auto Show

But How Should You Get There & Where Should You Park?

NEW YORK -- Automobiles are unquestionably the main attraction at the 2007 New York International Automobile Show, to be held April 6-April 15, 2007 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City; yet, many show-goers do not actually drive to the Auto Show, and those who do aren't sure where to park their car once they have arrived. To help, Show organizers are offering the following tips on transportation bargains, discounted tickets, easy parking, and more.

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Posted by Frank at 11:10 AM

Wolfsburg edition Passat now at VW dealers

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that the Wolfsburg Edition Passat is now available at dealers. Volkswagen will produce approximately 6,000 of these special edition models.

The Wolfsburg Edition Passat continues the tradition of offering value priced special editions. This edition features a 2.0L, 200-horsepower turbo-charged engine with a standard six-speed automatic Tiptronic® transmission.

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Posted by Frank at 9:15 AM

"Flying Car Company" Takes Off

VUGHT, The Netherlands, -- After many years pioneering with well-known parties such as the Dutch Aerospace Laboratory (NLR) creating a flying and driving vehicle, John Bakker formed a management team and recruited employees to start PAL-V Europe. Investors have been found to back the start-up, and currently initiatives are being taken towards securing more investors to speed up market launch.

Bakker invested 6 years developing a vehicle concept that can fly and drive: PAL-V (Personal Air and Land Vehicle). A dream Henry Ford already had building the first car. This will be a revolution in door to door mobility soon. In countries with underdeveloped infrastructure it means safe, faster transportation but also in developed countries people save lots of time.

The market response is huge: already 2 million website hits. Daily mails from people wanting to buy one. Professional applications like surveillance, mobility for aid organisations, post war aid, for private use bringing faster transportation or just big fun.

Continue reading""Flying Car Company" Takes Off"

Posted by Frank at 9:05 AM

Consumer science: some SUV shoppers want luxury, some fuel economy

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

Brand Watch Study Reveals Brand Perceptions and Key Decision Factors Among Shoppers in SUV Segment

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

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

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Posted by Frank at 8:58 AM

Plug-in Hybrid from Robert Q. Riley Enterprises to Debut on June 16

Fuel-Efficient XR-3 Will Offer 125-225 Miles per Gallon

GLENDALE, Ariz -- In less than 90 days, Robert Q. Riley Enterprises, LLC, a product design firm in Glendale, Ariz., will introduce its XR-3 plug-in hybrid, a sleek two-passenger, three-wheel sports car that is expected to generate up to 225 miles per gallon.

Designed to be assembled by someone with average mechanical abilities and no prior experience, the all-wheel drive vehicle will be available as a kit or plans for complete do-it-yourself construction.

“We’ve made a technology leap by designing a super-simple hybrid power system, but ‘technology’ itself was not the main thrust of the project,” said Robert Q. Riley, company president and author of “Alternative Cars in the 21st Century.” “We focused on the power of ‘design’ to define a new category of personal mobility products that are neither automobiles nor motorcycles.”

Continue reading"Plug-in Hybrid from Robert Q. Riley Enterprises to Debut on June 16"

Posted by Frank at 8:56 AM

Report: Toyota Tundra Makes Strong Debut in Pickup Segment, Domestic Models Hold Their Own

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- Initial trading patterns for the all-new 2007 Toyota Tundra suggest a strong start for this model in the domestic-dominated large pickup segment, according to real-time retail transaction data from the Power Information Network (PIN), a division of J.D. Power and Associates.

Since the all-new 2007 Toyota Tundra large pickup was launched in early February, owner loyalty for this model, which represents the percentage of Tundra owners who traded for another Tundra, is 53 percent (February only) -- more than twice the January rate of its predecessor and more than 20 percentage points higher than in February of 2006. Additionally, trading from the Tundra to each of the mainstream domestic large pickups (Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, Ram 1500) dropped considerably in February when compared with January, while trading in the reverse direction increased.

Nevertheless, owners of domestic large pickups remained relatively loyal to their vehicles. According to PIN data, both the Silverado 1500 and F-150 experienced owner loyalty increases of 4 percentage points when comparing transactions in February to those in January, while the Ram's owner loyalty remained steady. (Loyalty for the Titan is not included since it has only been on the market for three and one-fourth years.)

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Posted by Frank at 8:52 AM

9 New Vehicles Named to Annual Best Cars for Families List

Safety, Value, Convenience Set These Vehicles above All Others

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Nine new vehicles have been added to the AAA and Parents magazine Best Cars for Families list for 2007. The 15-vehicle list, now in its fifth year, appears with detailed reviews of each model in the April issue of Parents magazine which hits newsstands today.

By combining the 50-million-member AAA’s auto-safety expertise with Parents’ understanding of what families want and need, the team of reviewers created a list of sedans, economy cars, vans, SUVs, and crossovers perfect for everything from shuttling the kids to doctors’ visits and soccer practice, to weekend getaways and longer road trips.

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Posted by Frank at 8:49 AM

Chevrolet Chooses Clear Channel to Drive Accolades for Silverado

All-New Chevy Silverado to Reach Truck-Buying Markets With Year-Long Traffic Sponsorship and Floating Digital Ad Campaign

Chevrolet Joins Growing List of Auto Advertisers Building Brand Interaction With Clear Channel Radio’s Integrated On-Air and Online Assets

DETROIT & SAN ANTONIO -- Clear Channel Communications, Chevrolet and Clear Channel Radio today announced that the General Motors brand has chosen Clear Channel Radio to execute a full-year broadcast and digital media campaign, running now, to extol the highly acclaimed features of the all-new Chevy Silverado. The campaign is the first to integrate 15-second Clear Channel Radio traffic sponsorships with floating digital ads on the Web sites of radio stations located in key truck-buying markets.

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Posted by Frank at 8:48 AM

Toyota taking driver ed out to the amusement park[s]

Toyota Driving Expectations Offers New Approach to Teen Driving Education

Program Teaches Teens and Parents Defensive Driving Techniques via Real-World Scenarios

NEW YORK -- Teen drivers make up only 6.6 percent of licensed drivers, but constitute 14 percent of accidents and related deaths. Sixteen-year-olds have the highest crash rate of any age and are three times more likely to die in a car crash than the average driver. In an effort to improve these odds, Toyota announced today it is continuing its national program to promote safe driving among teens, Toyota Driving Expectations. This unique program, offered free of charge, is designed to teach teens and parents alike about defensive driving techniques against a backdrop of real-world scenarios.

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Posted by Frank at 8:46 AM

Honda, Nissan Target Urban Buyers With Guerrilla Techniques

BOTH HONDA AND NISSAN ARE launching viral/guerrilla efforts to reach younger, urban buyers.

Honda has launched an effort, via African-American market agency Muse Communications, L.A., aimed at pitching its Civic car to urban consumers. The effort, "Swagger," features directors and black comedians Jackie Long and DeRay Davis in both commercial and Web-based content.

The campaign, a kind of tutorial for cool, features a national cable spot TV ad and a series of Webisodes delving into topics like how to be cool in one's Civic, how to meet women in a parking lot after a night visiting clubs, and the proper way to lean against one's Civic, so one's stance evinces swaggering self-confidence and not foot problems.

Posted by Frank at 8:45 AM

March 19, 2007

Flexcar Expands to Baltimore; Partners with The Johns Hopkins University

Nation’s Leading Research Institution Concludes Car-Sharing Will Help with Its Environmental Initiatives, Including Reducing Congestion, Parking Demand and Cars on Campus

BALTIMORE -- Flexcar (www.flexcar.com) today announced it has expanded to the city of Baltimore through a partnership with The Johns Hopkins University, the leading research university in the United States.

The initial group of four hybrid vehicles will be parked across campus and available to students, faculty, staff and neighborhood residents for use by the hour. Additional vehicles will be added on campus and in the city throughout the year.

Baltimore becomes Flexcar’s 10th US city and the first of multiple new markets the company plans to launch in 2007. The program will begin with a kick-off event featuring prizes and giveaways at noon on Wednesday, March 21, on Levering Plaza.

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Posted by Frank at 8:51 PM

MINI USA Chooses Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic Network

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

SAN ANTONIO -- Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic Network today announced that it will begin providing its real-time traffic data on navigation-equipped 2007 MINI Cooper and Cooper S hardtops beginning with March production. No subscription will be required for Clear Channel Radio’s traffic service, which is now available in 44 markets across the U.S. The real-time traffic information, provided in partnership with INRIX, will allow MINI drivers to avoid potential delays due to traffic congestion or road closures.

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Posted by Frank at 8:41 PM

Mercedes-Benz launches integrated marketing campaign for the new C-Class: “C-for Yourself”

* For the market launch, Mercedes-Benz focuses on personal driving experiences

* Online campaign with a new 360-degree soft configurator, a host and interactive films

* TV commercial with new brand ambassador Fernando Alonso

Stuttgart -- Mercedes-Benz is starting a comprehensive integrated marketing campaign for the new C-Class, which will be introduced to the market on March 31, 2007. Using the slogan “C-for Yourself,” the brand with the star is conducting a variety of communication activities via several channels to support the sales launch of its highest-volume model series.

The primary goal of the campaign is to convince customers around the world of the advantages of the versatile product concept behind the new C-Class sedan, including two distinct front-end designs and outstanding comfort, agility and safety.

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Posted by Frank at 6:37 PM

ZAP Releases Concept Drawings of Electric Crossover SUV

SANTA ROSA, Calif. -- Electric car pioneer ZAP today unveiled concept drawings of the ZAP-X Crossover SUV on its website, zapworld.com/.

The images of the ZAP-X are also highlighted in the new issue of Popular Science, April 2007, in an article entitled "Who killed the gas guzzler?" including an interview with ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. The issue is on newsstands now as well as online at http://www.popsci.com/.

The design sketches highlight the styling, performance and technology that ZAP plans to incorporate into the ZAP-X. The compact-SUV design will feature all-wheel drive with in-hub electric motors capable to deliver 644 horsepower and a top speed of 155mph. By combining a lightweight aluminum chassis, a new efficient drive system and advanced battery management system, the goal for the ZAP-X is to be able to achieve 350-mile range, with a rapid 10-minute recharging time.

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Posted by Frank at 6:35 PM

Nissan throwing the keys at potential Altima buyers

New Grassroots Program Drops Keys at Nightclubs Nationwide for Consumers to Get Free Magazines, Free Gas and Details on the Next Generation Nissan Altima

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Today, Nissan North America, Inc. announced its marketing plans to reach urban trendsetters through a unique grassroots initiative in major cities nationwide. Using a creative blend of non-traditional and traditional media, the “Lost Keys” program will engage street teams to place mock sets of keys – one traditional car key, 2 generic house keys - in popular nightlife venues so it appears like someone has lost their keys.

Upon finding the keys, consumers will be humorously alerted on a key chain: “If found, please do not return. My Next Generation Nissan Altima has Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, and I no longer need these.”

To further promote this interactive program, the TRUE Agency, Nissan’s cultural marketing agency, collaborated with Vibe magazine to become both media and mobile partners. Those who find the keys are invited to text MVibe or visit www.AltimaKeys.com where they can redeem either a gas gift card or a six-month subscription to Vibe.

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Posted by Frank at 6:30 PM

Oval Track at DaimlerChrysler's Chelsea Proving Ground Undergoes Reconstruction

Landmark Oval a Part of the Community for 54 Years

Chelsea, Mich., Mar 19, 2007 - The 4.71-mile-long oval track at DaimlerChrysler's Chelsea (Mich.) Proving Grounds (CPG) will undergo reconstruction during the upcoming spring and summer seasons to replace its pavement surface. The existing surface, which was laid in 1953, has deteriorated and the track no longer provides a test surface acceptable for high-speed vehicle testing requirements.

Beginning today, work crews will begin the process of removing and replacing the surface. The work is scheduled for completion by early September.

Chrysler Group utilizes the Chelsea Proving Grounds for new vehicle design development and validation. Several types of tests are performed at CPG, including vehicle durability, emissions certification, crash worthiness, brake development and certification, performance testing, wind and pass-by noise testing, steering suspension tests, exposure to hot and cold temperatures—prior to vehicles being brought to the marketplace.

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Posted by Frank at 6:28 PM

Honda Europe picks Garmin for after-market GPS

OLATHE, Kan. -- Garmin has been selected as the exclusive supplier of compact navigation devices to Honda Access Europe N.V. The customised units will be available for six different Honda models of vehicle including the Civic (3 door and 5 door), Accord Sedan, Accord Tourer and CR-V.

The unit is a custom product with features that are specifically designed to complement Honda vehicles. It contains a preloaded Honda database so drivers can always find their nearest dealership and has a custom dash board attachment with an integrated power supply. There is a unique mount for each vehicle dash board, which means no visible wiring and when the navigation device is removed, a matching cap discretely hides the mount.

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Posted by Frank at 6:28 PM

Ford Presents Student Entrepreneurs with $100,000 in Scholarship Prizes

Students from New Orleans Take Home the Grand Prize to Help Rebuild Their Community

WASHINGTON -- Aspiring student entrepreneurs from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were presented with $100,000 in scholarship prizes at the 2nd Ford HBCU Business Classic, a business plan competition held in Washington, D.C., on Friday, March 16.

The five finalist teams from Howard University, Florida A&M University, Morehouse College, Xavier University, and a collaborative team from Spelman and Morehouse Colleges, presented their business plans with poise and determination as they competed for $100,000 in scholarship prizes.

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Posted by Frank at 6:23 PM

Subaru of America Appoints Kevin Mayer Director of Marketing Communications

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- Subaru of America, Inc. today announced the appointment of Kevin Mayer to director of marketing communications. Reporting to Tim Mahoney, chief marketing officer for Subaru, Mayer will be responsible for the company's advertising and marketing communications activities.

"We are pleased to welcome Kevin to the Subaru team," said Tim Mahoney, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "He brings a wealth of automotive OEM experience and accomplishments in the areas of marketing, advertising, strategic planning and media. Kevin will play a key role in the growth of the Subaru brand in the U.S."

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Posted by Frank at 6:20 PM

Ford Challenge puts Ford on buyers' lists

Ford Division is taking Bold Moves to the next level with the Ford Challenge, a confident, aggressive marketing campaign designed to prove to customers why Ford cars and trucks deserve to be on their purchase consideration list.

“We’ve got to show people just how bold we can be,” said Barry Engle, general manager, Ford Division Marketing. “We have a great story to tell, and as we go forward, our marketing communications need to work as hard as they ever have to get that story out. And part of that story requires that we not just tell people that these products are great but that we prove it.”

Engle says the Ford Challenge builds on the Bold Moves marketing platform launched in 2006, by shifting the emphasis from the lives of target customers to the bold design and performance of the company's products.

"The strategy was right on. All of the changes we are making are really about execution," he said. "The work now is much more focused on the product."

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Posted by Frank at 6:18 PM

Overstock.com Signs Agreement With Enterprise Car Sales

SALT LAKE CITY -- Overstock.com's Cars Program has reached an agreement with Enterprise Car Sales, a division of Enterprise Rent-A-Car, to include a selection of the national rental company's fleet inventory on the Overstock.com Web site.

Enterprise Car Sales has 175 locations throughout the United States, and a sales inventory that typically includes vehicles with 25,000 to 29,000 miles.

The Cars Program is the newest addition to Overstock.com's Web site, and works with auto dealers from across the country to list new and used vehicles.

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Posted by Frank at 6:15 PM

Nissan North America Announces Increase in Destination and Handling Charges

NASHVILLE – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced increases in Destination and Handling charges for all 2007 Nissan and Infiniti models.

Effective March 19, 2007, the new Nissan Division D&H charges will be $625 for Versa, Sentra, Altima, Maxima and 350Z; $705 for Quest, Frontier, Murano, Xterra and Pathfinder; and $745 for Armada and Titan.

The new Infiniti Division D&H charges will be $715 for the Infiniti G sedan and coupe and the Infiniti M sedan; $760 for the Infiniti FX crossover SUV; and $815 for the Infiniti QX56 full-size SUV.

Posted by Frank at 6:13 PM

BMW delivers 500,000th certified pre-owned vehicle

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - BMW of North America today announced a significant milestone for its Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Vehicle Program, delivering its 500,000th certified pre-owned BMW to a retail customer.

BMW of North America introduced its CPO Program in 1996, and has consistently maintained its luxury market-leading position for the past seven years. In 2006, a record 80,373 BMW brand CPO vehicles were sold, an increase of nearly 10 percent over 2005.

"It's amazing that we have been selling Certified Pre-Owned BMWs for more than a decade," said Bill Bates, Manager of Pre-Owned sales at BMW of North America. "The success of the Pre-Owned BMW business is a textbook example of what happens when there is a true partnership between BMW dealers in the United States, the sales company (BMW of North America), the finance company (BMW Financial Services)."

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Posted by Frank at 6:08 PM

Acura Sports Car Debut Proves Formidable With Sebring Victory

All Three Acura ALMS Teams Finish In The Top Six Overall Positions

The three new Acura American Le Mans Series teams made a spectacular debut Saturday by taking the first, second and fourth positions in the LMP2 class at the 55th annual Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring, one of the world's most prestigious road-racing events.

The Andretti Green Racing effort, with drivers Bryan Herta, Dario Franchitti and Tony Kanaan, scored the LMP2 class victory over the Lowe's Fernandez Racing team of Adrian Fernandez and Luis Diaz after the grueling 12-hour endurance contest. The AGR trio finished second overall to the factory Audi LMP1, racing on the lead lap against the more powerful German manufacturer before gearbox woes slowed the Acura ARX-01a driven by Herta in the final hour. The Fernandez team placed third overall, just two laps shy of the AGR team.

Continue reading"Acura Sports Car Debut Proves Formidable With Sebring Victory"

Posted by Frank at 1:08 PM

HUMMER H3 Right-Hand-Drive Unveiled

* Premiere at the opening of new HUMMER showroom in the United Kingdom

* Assembly in GM’s Struandale plant in South Africa

* Start of sales in summer 2007

DETROIT - Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman, global product development, unveiled a prototype right-hand-drive H3 during the opening ceremony of a new HUMMER facility in Manchester, UK. “HUMMER’s iconic design and unparalleled off-road capabilities appeal to a wide audience globally. We are determined to build upon the brand’s unique recognition in Europe and especially here in the UK,” said Lutz.

The right-hand-drive HUMMER H3 will be assembled at GM’s Struandale plant in South Africa and will be available in other right-hand-drive markets, such as South Africa, Australia and Japan.

GM acquired the rights to the HUMMER brand in late 1999. The H3 made its debut in North America in May 2005 and helped make HUMMER one of the fastest-growing truck brands in the United States by the end of 2006. With its smaller, more efficient package, the H3 made the brand accessible to more customers, while still retaining the characteristics that make a HUMMER unique: iconic design and unparalleled off-road performance.

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Posted by Frank at 12:57 PM

Honda Officially Breaks Ground for New Auto Plant

$550 Million Plant Will Begin Production of Civic Sedan in 2008

GREENSBURG, Ind. -- Honda today held an official groundbreaking ceremony for its $550 million automobile plant, to be known as Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) and revealed that the new plant's 2,000 associates will produce(1) the popular and fuel efficient Honda Civic sedan when mass production begins in fall 2008. It was also announced that HMIN's first president will be Yuzo Uenohara, who previously held the position of senior vice president at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC.

Honda first announced plans to build the new Indiana plant June 28, 2006, with an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles. In an effort to meet strong customer demand, site preparation for the new plant is complete and basic construction has already begun on a 1,700-acre tract in Decatur County, Indiana, near the town of Greensburg, 50 miles southeast of Indianapolis.

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Posted by Frank at 12:52 PM

Saturn Aura Green Line: Lowest Priced Hybrid, Certified for $1,300 Tax Credit

New hybrid starts at $22,695; receives official EPA ratings of 28 mpg city/35 mpg highway

Detroit -- Saturn announced today that the new 2007 Aura Green Line hybrid’s MSRP will start at $22,695 (including destination charge), making it the lowest-priced hybrid on the market for 2007.

In addition to its value-focused price, the Internal Revenue Service has certified that Aura Green Line buyers will qualify for a tax credit of $1,300.

“The Aura Green Line is a great value among the hybrids in the mid-size car segment,” said Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak. “With a starting sticker price over $2,000 less than any mid-sized hybrid sedan and a $1,300 tax credit, it makes true hybrid fuel savings available to more people than ever before.”

The Aura Green Line’s EPA fuel economy rating of 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway represents up to a 30 percent improvement in EPA combined fuel economy compared to the non-hybrid Aura XE model (depending on driving conditions).

Continue reading"Saturn Aura Green Line: Lowest Priced Hybrid, Certified for $1,300 Tax Credit"

Posted by Frank at 10:42 AM

GM Announces Management Moves

DETROIT - Tom Gottschalk, GM executive vice president, Law and Public Policy, will retire April 1, 2007, GM chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner announced today.

Bo Andersson and Jim Queen are being promoted to GM group vice presidents, effective April 1, in recognition of their significant global responsibilities and major ongoing contributions to GM's progress. Andersson will continue to lead the Global Purchasing and Supply Chain organization, and Queen will remain the leader for Global Engineering.

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Posted by Frank at 10:41 AM

BMW Opens Eyes and Doors to Career Opportunities in Automotive Services

Hundreds of High School Students From Throughout the South to Visit Facilities, Discover Potential Career Paths During BMW's 'Teens and Wheels' Program

SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- More than 1,000 students from 34 high schools in six southern states will get a first-hand view of how vehicles are manufactured, delivered and serviced during a two-week educational program designed to introduce them to careers in a field where the demand for skilled workers is high. The goal of the program, called "Teens and Wheels," is to demonstrate the rewarding nature of careers in retail automotive service, while dispelling lingering myths and stereotypes.

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Posted by Frank at 10:38 AM

NY Auto Show Generates $181 Million for New York City's Economy

New York International Automobile Show Releases Economic Impact Study

NEW YORK -- With less than three weeks before the annual New York International Auto Show opens its doors to the press and public, the event's organizer announced the economic impact results from last year's Show, revealing more than $181 million of economic benefit to New York City's economy. The report was conducted by BBC Research & Consulting (BBC) and was commissioned by the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA), owners and operators of the Auto Show.

Continue reading"NY Auto Show Generates $181 Million for New York City's Economy"

Posted by Frank at 10:37 AM

Dollar, Thrifty Car Rental Join Northwest Biz Perks Program

TULSA, Okla. -- Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental, subsidiaries of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., are giving Northwest Airlines Biz Perks program members two more great reasons to earn Biz Perks points.

Effective immediately, Biz Perks members who sign up for a DOLLAR or Thrifty Car Rental corporate account via the Northwest Airlines Biz Perks website will earn 250 points per qualifying rental transaction with Dollar or Thrifty. Additionally, members will receive 1,000 Biz Perks bonus points, which will be awarded after the third rental. (All three rentals must take place during the first year of membership).

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Posted by Frank at 10:11 AM

Acura's rich media ads are among the best on the web

What you see here is a screenshot of an expanding Acura ad that I found on this webpage, around 9 am, Monday.

What I like about this Acura ad is that, in it's origianl state the graphical tab annnouncing the ad was unobtrusive, yet also persuasive due to its style and well-presented offer.

Then when you expand the tab, you get this, a series of offers as it turns out, for Acura automobiles.

This ad is one of the best I've seen at providing a rich advdertising expeience without "choking" the content on the page. Well done.

Posted by Frank at 8:58 AM

Volvo's at it with the pirate nonsense again

Seriously, we enjoy the Volvo-Pirates of the Caribbean tie-in:

Volvo Cars Calls All Rogues and Scallywags

IRVINE, Calif. -- There's rumblings afloat of Volvo booty up for grabs. Today Volvo Cars confirmed nothing and denied even less. But, interested pirates may want to set sail for:

http://thehunt07.spaces.live.com/.

Your friends at Volvo Caaarrrrsss.

Posted by Frank at 8:42 AM

Mass. to use high-tech crackfinder for Big Dig probs

Massachusetts to Engage MATECH'S Patented EFS Technology to Find Growing Fatigue Cracks in Highway Bridges

LOS ANGELES -- Material Technologies, Inc. ("MATECH") announced that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MADOT) intends to invite MATECH to demonstrate its Electrochemical Fatigue Sensor System (EFS) on several bridges around the State.

Last year MADOT sent MATECH information on seventeen bridges around the State, with the intention of having MATECH demonstrate its EFS on many of these structures. However, critical problems with their "Big Dig" tunnels created a large demand on MADOT's resources, so the EFS efforts had to be postponed.

Continue reading"Mass. to use high-tech crackfinder for Big Dig probs"

Posted by Frank at 8:22 AM

March 18, 2007

Mazda paying $25 for you to test drive their cars

Through April 2, 2007, test drive any Mazda vehicle and receive a $25 prepaid Visa card in the mail.

Posted by Frank at 2:30 PM

Corvette Racing Scores 1-2 Finish in Sebring

Gavin, Beretta and Papis Claim GT1 Victory in Legendary 12-Hour Endurance Race

SEBRING, Fla. – On a perfect day for racing at Sebring International Raceway, Corvette Racing ran a perfect race. America's premier production sports car team scored its fifth GT1 class win in six years in America's classic endurance race, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. Oliver Gavin, Olivier Beretta and Max Papis drove their No. 4 Compuware Corvette C6.R to a 17.863-second victory over their Corvette Racing teammates Johnny O'Connell, Ron Fellows and Jan Magnussen in the No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R.

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Posted by Frank at 1:40 PM

Mazda promotes North American motorsports driver development

Automaker commits to promoting ladder series champions to next level

Sebring, FL -- Up-and-coming race drivers have two major challenges: winning on the track, and finding the resources to move up to the next level. Mazda in conjunction with series corporate partners is making the second task significantly easier for this year’s champion drivers. Mazda will provide a next-level, fully-funded ride in a Mazda powered car to the 2007 champions of selected Mazda series.

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Posted by Frank at 12:35 PM

Porsche ushers in a $589/month lease for 2007 Cayman

e-mail from Porsche for their Cayman:

The only thing in life that is possibly more gratifying than the responsive nature of the Cayman is an equally gratifying offer on one. We'd like to make you aware that the lease rate on a Cayman starts at $589 per month. This financing offer is valid through March 31, 2007. We hope you can take advantage of this special offer and can enjoy the Cayman first hand. Offer valid in U.S. only.

Posted by Frank at 12:23 PM

Audi diesel conquers Sebring

SEBRING, Fla. - Despite new regulations, the Audi R10 TDI remains the sports car to beat. By achieving an impressive victory in the 12 Hours of Sebring (USA), AUDI AG made a perfect start into the 2007 motorsport season with its revolutionary diesel sports car and also a successful dress rehearsal for the Le Mans 24 Hours on 16/17 June. It was the eighth victory in a row in the classic American endurance race for the manufacturer from Ingolstadt.

The Audi R10 TDI, which remains unbeaten in its ninth consecutive race, had to start for the first time with a 10 percent smaller fuel tank (81 instead of 90 liters). This meant the Audi had to come to the pits for refueling up to five laps earlier than their competitors.

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Posted by Frank at 12:17 PM

Porsche has a hard day at Sebring

American Le Mans Series, round 1 in Sebring, USA

LMP2 podium for RS Spyder at season-opener

Stuttgart -- With a hard-earned podium result at the Twelve Hours of Sebring, Porsche started into the 2007 American Le Mans Series. On the bumpy airfield circuit in the heart of Florida, Timo Bernhard (Germany), Romain Dumas (France) and Helio Castroneves (Brazil) finally crossed the finish line third in the LM P2 class after suffering many set-backs with their # 7 RS Sypder.

Continue reading"Porsche has a hard day at Sebring"

Posted by Frank at 12:16 PM

The race to 100 mpg

Over the past several decades, the promise of the "car of tomorrow" has remained unfulfilled, while the problems it was supposed to solve have only intensified.

The average price of a gallon of gas is higher than at any time since the early 1980s. The Middle East seems more volatile than ever. And even climate skeptics are starting to admit that the carbon we're pumping into the atmosphere might have disastrous consequences.

To these circumstances, automakers have responded with a fleet of cars that averages 21 miles per gallon, about 4 mpg worse than the Model T.

Yet hope is coming faster than that hydrogen economy you've been hearing about. Several small companies are developing new engine technologies and advanced automotive designs that promise to deliver 100 miles from a single gallon of gas. The proposals run from the simple -- reduce weight, improve aerodynamics -- to the incredible (one company wants to borrow a few tricks from jet engines).

Posted by Frank at 12:09 PM

Electric car pioneer hoping to lead the future

Steven Schneider has been selling cars—everything from tiny European imports to boat-like Lincolns—nearly his entire life. Now, as CEO of ZAP (for Zero Air Pollution) in Santa Rosa, California, he specializes in the distribution of small, fuel-efficient automobiles. It’s a job, he says, that makes him feel less like “the stereotype car salesman with plaid pants and a white belt.”

The country’s largest retailer of electric vehicles—90,000 sold worldwide since 1994, including 300 electric cars but mostly ATVs and golf-cart-size vehicles—ZAP recently introduced the fastest production electric car in the country, a three-wheeler called the Xebra that can hit 40 miles per hour. By the end of next year, ZAP will introduce the Obvio, a pint-size Brazilian import that will be the nation’s first commercial car to run on 100 percent ethanol, followed by a Lotus Engineering electric SUV that will top 155mph. We spoke with Schneider about his thriving eco-dealership and his ambitious vision of a green automobile for every driver in America.

Q: Why aren’t electric cars more popular in the U.S.?
A: Those of influence don’t promote them. I hate to be so vague, but we’re not looking to make any enemies. That said, I believe that within the next few years, due to public demand, we’ll start to see more of them.

Posted by Frank at 12:08 PM

California's Galloping Gas Prices Leave Other States in the Dust

LOS ANGELES -- Gas prices statewide and throughout Southern California surged past $3 a gallon and just kept going over the last week, creating an 80-cent difference in gas prices across the United States, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California's Weekend Gas Watch.

"California gas prices are now on average nearly 80 cents higher than the least expensive state, Wyoming, and about 60 to 70 cents higher than most other states," said Auto Club spokeswoman Carol Thorp. "Prices went up at a faster rate this last week than at any other time in 2007. A number of factors are combining to cause this quick increase, including some supply issues and a lot of speculation in the market by investors that is driving up wholesale gasoline prices."

Continue reading"California's Galloping Gas Prices Leave Other States in the Dust"

Posted by Frank at 7:53 AM

Tax Guidance for Hybrid/Alternative-Fuel Car Owners

Tax credits on 14 vehicles benefit green car buyers

CHICAGO -- Hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles are well-known for their green credentials, but they can also save you money on your taxes. We've taken the guesswork out of tax credits for green vehicle buyers by offering consumers information about cars that qualify for a credit and explaining how and when credits for popular hybrid vehicles are expected to be phased out.

Thanks to the Energy Policy Act of 2005, certain cars purchased in 2006 can earn credits of up to $4,000 and there is still time for buyers to take advantage of these credits in their 2006 filing. To be eligible for the credits, vehicles have to fall into one of four categories: fuel cell, advance lean burn technology, hybrid or alternative fuel. Currently, the only mass- market cars that qualify are hybrids and one natural-gas-powered car, the Honda Civic GX.

The IRS offers credits on a total of 14 cars, ranging from $250 to $4,000. Here is a list of those cars and their corresponding credits:

Continue reading"Tax Guidance for Hybrid/Alternative-Fuel Car Owners"

Posted by Frank at 7:51 AM

Auto Executives to Meet With Bush

DETROIT -- President Bush and top executives of Detroit's three auto makers plan to meet again in Washington later this month to discuss increased use of flexible and alternative fuels.

No date has been set for the meeting, to take place at the White House, but Colin McBean, manager of Washington communications for DaimlerChrysler AG, said the talks likely will center on alternatives to gasoline and diesel fuel such as ethanol and biodiesel-powered vehicles.

"There's interest among the respective parties to discuss flexible fuel as well as alternative fuels," Mr. McBean said Friday.

The White House would not confirm that the meeting is on Mr. Bush's schedule, but a spokesman said the administration stays in contact with the auto makers on alternative fuels and other issues. "We look forward to working with them to reduce gasoline usage," said spokesman Alex Conant.

Mr. Bush last met with General Motors Corp. Chairman and Chief Executive Rick Wagoner, Ford Motor Co. CEO Alan Mulally and Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda in November, promising continued dialogue on trade, health care and other issues. The president was criticized by Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D., Miich) for not meeting with the executives sooner.

Since then, Mr. Bush, in his State of the Union address, proposed reducing gasoline use by 20% over the next 10 years. He called for ramping up the production of alternative fuels such as ethanol made from new, non-corn feedstocks, and he called on Congress to require the annual use of 35 billion gallons of ethanol and other alternative fuels such as biodiesel by 2017, a fivefold increase over current requirements.

Posted by Frank at 7:50 AM

More auto suppliers looking for fast, easy bankruptcy

Like many of Michigan's troubled auto suppliers, Hastings Manufacturing Co., which makes aftermarket piston rings, was on its way to bankruptcy court in 2005 after revenues fell, raw materials prices increased and debt mounted. But rather than endure an expensive, drawn-out bankruptcy reorganization, Hastings' executives sought the help of restructuring specialists who developed a sweeping reorganization plan, found a buyer, took the company into bankruptcy in September 2005 and came out in less than 90 days.

Posted by Frank at 7:49 AM

Chrysler breakup opposed

STUTTGART, Germany -- The Chrysler Group's difficulties are becoming a burden for DaimlerChrysler AG, but a member of the German automaker's governing supervisory board said Friday that he would oppose a deal leading to a breakup of the Auburn Hills automaker.

"We wouldn't support a solution such as a private equity firm that would cut out choice bits," said Helmut Lense, one of the 10 employee representatives on DaimlerChrysler's 20-member supervisory board, which is similar to a U.S. board of directors.

In an interview with The Detroit News, Lense said he would prefer to see a manufacturing company, such as another automaker, take control of Chrysler in the event of a sale.

Posted by Frank at 7:47 AM

Top 10 cars driven by men

From fiery Ferraris to hulking Hummers, the cars driven predominantly by men all have a showy streak and plenty of power under the hood.

“So many of these cars are prototypical ‘guy cars’ — it’s kind of funny,” says Imre Molnar, dean of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Mich., where he oversees one of the world’s largest transportation design programs. Putting it politely, he calls vehicles on the list bold and assertive. “But with some of these cars, you can’t help but see cliché qualities coming to the fore,” Molnar says. “They affirm the aggressive male stereotype.”

This list includes the top 10 vehicles with the highest percentage of male primary drivers based on CNW Marketing Research survey data. The Bandon, Ore.-based firm conducted tens of thousands of phone surveys during 2006 on a range of topics about car buying and ownership. The list does not account for yearly vehicle sales volumes. Rather, it measures which vehicles have the highest percentage of male drivers based on the number of respondents who said they were the primary driver of a particular model.

Posted by Frank at 7:45 AM

Toyota trucks have Big 3 defending turf

As automaker intensifies war to become No. 1, GM, Ford and Chrysler slam Tundra in company e-mails, ads.

If there were any doubt that Toyota Motor Co. is emerging as a legitimate threat on a truck scene long dominated by Detroit steel, consider some of the latest maneuvers by the folks peddling American-made pickups.

A General Motors Corp. sales manager recently sent an e-mail to dealers picking apart some of the more lofty claims in a Toyota TV commercial touting its new Texas-built Tundra pickup.

Workers at Ford Motor Co., including Mark Fields, president of the Americas division, are spreading the word that Ford trucks were spotted helping out in the construction of the San Antonio Toyota plant.

And, in Atlanta, a major Chevrolet dealer is airing a radio ad stating, "Toyota contributes more to our staggering national trade deficit than any manufacturer."

That Toyota's brazen entry to the full-size pickup market is stirring strong feelings is natural given the stakes involved.

Posted by Frank at 7:43 AM

New Honda plant will build Civics

Honda Motor Co.'s new $550 million plant in Greensburg, Ind., initially will build only the Civic, according to a company source. The company will break ground Monday, March 19. Honda spokesman David Iida declined comment today. The Greensburg plant will have an annual capacity of about 200,000 units. At peak capacity, there are expected to be about 2,000 employees.

Posted by Frank at 7:42 AM

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.

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

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."

Continue reading"Aschenbach Takes Second for Cadillac in Sebring"

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.

Continue reading"IndyCar Series Prepares for Debut of 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.

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

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.

Continue reading"Anthony Franco Named 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' Designer"

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.

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

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.

Continue reading"Nick Faldo is the new Maybach brand ambassador"

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.

Continue reading"Team Trans Sport Racing Announces 2007 American Le Mans GT2 Program"

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.

Continue reading"Yaris: Free YR Radio"

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.

Continue reading"DaimlerChrysler Donates $1 Million to Howard University"

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.

Continue reading"Home Depot Expands NASCAR Sponsorship"

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.

Continue reading"Used Car Sales Significantly Impact New Vehicle Pricing and Brand Strength"

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.

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

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.

Continue reading"Tampa Native to Live the Ultimate Fan Experience Shadowing Jeff Burton"

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.

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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).

Continue reading"Porsche entry nails fastest Sebring time"

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.

Continue reading"Audi diesel racer breaks Sebring record in qualifying trials"

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.

Continue reading"U.S. Team orders pair of Porsche Spyders"

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.

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

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.

Continue reading"Barrett-Jackson Sues to Halt Defamation"

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.

Continue reading"Nissan Announces Management Changes"

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.

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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.

Continue reading"Gas Prices Show Wide Discrepancy from Coast to Coast"

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.

Continue reading"Not your childhood ice cream van"

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.

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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.

Continue reading"New York Auto Show Launches 2007 Members Express Club"

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.

Continue reading"Towards a Cleaner Tomorrow With Diesel Particulate Filters"

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

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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.

Continue reading"Team Chevy Poised for Return of Impala SS to NASCAR"

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.

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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.

Continue reading"New NASCAR Race Car Influenced By GM Racing Safety Research"

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Continue reading"Building the Plug-In Hybrid: The Battery Challenge"

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.

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

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.

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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.

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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/.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.“

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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.

Continue reading"GM Exec: With BLS wagon, "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.

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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.

Continue reading"'Remote Start Envy' Easily Cured"

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.

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

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.

Continue reading"Nissan Announces Pricing on 2007 Sentra SE-R"

Posted by Frank at 10:07 AM

March 10, 2007

Ferrari's 60th Anniversary: Miami is first U.S. stop on marathon round the world relay

Homestead Miami Speedway hosts celebratory parade lap of 60+ Ferraris

MIAMI -- The marathon relay celebrating Ferrari's 60th anniversary arrived in the United States this morning. Sixty Ferrari owners gathered at The Collection, Ferrari's authorized dealership in Miami, and drove from the dealership to the Homestead - Miami Speedway where the season opener for the 14th annual Ferrari Challenge was taking place. At the speedway the owners celebrated 60 years of Ferrari passion with a ceremonial parade lap around the track cheered on by thousands of spectators.

The relay involves over 10,000 Ferrari owners and their cars of all ages. They act as symbolic "bearers" of a specially commissioned relay baton adorned with 60 badges of symbolizing the most extraordinary events in the Marque's 60-year history.

Continue reading"Ferrari's 60th Anniversary: Miami is first U.S. stop on marathon round the world relay"

Posted by Frank at 4:13 PM

Madame Tussauds Immortalizes Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

Both NASCAR Stars Unveil Wax Figures During Grand Opening of Neon Garage at LVMS

LAS VEGAS -- Madame Tussauds Las Vegas immortalized Richard Petty, "The King" of NASCAR, and Dale Earnhardt, Jr., currently its most popular driver, in wax today in special ceremonies during the first public opening of the new Neon Garage at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

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Posted by Frank at 4:08 PM

ResQMe, the Original Keychain Car Emergency Tool

SANTA BARBARA, California -- ResQMe from NOV8 is the "original" keychain emergency tool that allows escape from vehicular entrapment situations. Made in USA and used by many public safety organizations around the world, ResQMe cuts through jammed seat belts and breaks malfunctioning car windows.

ResQMe, a proven lifesaving tool, is an important part of the effort to reduce road fatalities and injuries worldwide. Inspired by the LifeHammer, ResQMe is an innovative response to the growing demand for safety and offers real peace of mind to motorists. "This high quality safety tool is a perfect gift for those you care about! ... This must-have tool is a 'Gift for Life,' that could very well save one!" says Laurent Colasse, President of NOV8.

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Posted by Frank at 4:04 PM

Ford Announces Investment in Sharonville Transmission Plant

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company today announced a $200 million investment in the Sharonville Transmission Plant for a future transmission that will make Ford a leader in high-performance, fuel-efficient powertrains.

The investment will be used to retool the plant for flexible manufacturing and advanced powertrain production. Details of the transmission will be disclosed at a future date.

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Posted by Frank at 4:00 PM

Morrie's Mazda Unveils New Buy Happy Campaign at Minneapolis Auto Show

WHERE: Minneapolis Convention Center

WHEN: Saturday March 10th, 11AM-3PM and Saturday, March 17th, 11AM-3PM

At the Minneapolis Auto Show, Morrie's will be sending four pixmen on Saturday, March 10th to the skyways to give away "Buy Happy, Everyone's a Winner" cards. Cards contain prizes that range from a carwash to a iPod shuffle.

The mob team will be walking the show floor in packs on March 17th, generating buzz and awareness of the new "Buy Happy" campaign. Morrie's Mazda knows that the only way to be different and to stand out from other dealerships is to reach potential customers using fun, yet unconventional marketing tactics.

Source: Morrie's Mazda

Posted by Frank at 6:01 AM

March 9, 2007

NGK spark plugs launches new website

www.ngksparkplugs.com features easier navigation, enhanced application lookup

Wixom, MI -- NGK Spark Plugs (USA), Inc., a subsidiary of NGK Spark Plug Co., LTD., “The World Leader” in spark plugs and oxygen sensors, has just launched a newly redesigned website for its NGK Spark Plug and NTK Oxygen Sensor lines.

The new website, www.ngksparkplugs.com, features a fresh new look and an enhanced application look-up. According to Mark Sprague, NGK Spark Plugs (USA) Marketing Manager, “This new site will create added excitement for all of our products. We’ve combined new graphics and bold new colors along with more product information and easier navigation to make our new website as informative and easy to use for our automotive aftermarket customers.”

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Posted by Frank at 2:19 PM

VW Group reports record global sales and revenue

2008: Profit before tax of at least €5.1 billion

WOLFSBURG, Germany - The Volkswagen Group reached its targets last year: “We cut costs, increased productivity and quality, and launched a fireworks of new models”, said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, on Friday at the presentation of the 2006 financial results in Wolfsburg.

“The Volkswagen Group sold more vehicles worldwide in 2006 than ever before. All brands contributed to this success.” This growth is also positively reflected in the financial data. Sales revenue exceeded the €100 billion mark for the first time. Operating profit before special items rose 51.7 percent to €4.4 billion. “We recorded an impressive result”, emphasized Chief Financial Officer Hans Dieter Pötsch. “The ForMotionplus performance enhancement program helped the Group to optimize its cost structures and processes and increase its competitiveness.”

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Posted by Frank at 2:00 PM

10 Questions With Bruce Campbell Vice President, Nissan Design America

Bruce Campbell is Vice President, Design for Nissan Design America, Inc. (NDA). He is responsible for leading the development of projects assigned to NDA – San Diego and NDA-Farmington Hills, Mich. He has worked on various projects including Altima, Xterra, Sentra, Quest and the full-size truck and SUV.

Since joining NDA in 1980, he has worked as chief designer for the corporation’s industrial design projects, chief designer of the Gobi Show Car and principal designer on various Nissan projects, including the "Hardbody" Truck, Pulsar NX, NX 2000, Cocoon show car and the Nissan Quest Minivan. He also holds a dozen design-related U.S. and foreign patents.

1. How has the Internet influenced or changed design in recent years – in terms of bringing the world cultures closer, in terms of quicker feedback and response from the marketplace and in how you do track consumer needs or taste?

The Internet is a "one dimensional" source of information, but it is extremely helpful for getting a quick read on what is popular or current. For example, we conducted an Internet survey of what interests were most relevant to young people. We were able to make the connection between cars and gaming, deciding to integrate the Xbox 360 into the Nissan URGE Concept. While the basic concept of URGE came from other research and studies, the Internet led us to develop a cockpit where the car became the game and the game became the car, an industry first.

Continue reading"10 Questions With Bruce Campbell Vice President, Nissan Design America"

Posted by Frank at 1:53 PM

Let's Get Small: Kia Latest To Face Scion

DETROIT -- Thanks to Toyota's success with Scion, more carmakers are thinking small. And square-ish.

Kia, for one is preparing what marketing chief Ian Beavis calls a "Scion fighter." It's named Soul and hits the market next year. Shown as a concept at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the car sports a boxy design similar to a Scion xB.

"Scion has created a segment, and there is more and more room in that for others," Beavis said. "We've been in there, with the Rio, then Nissan came in with the Versa and Honda with the Fit, and it has lifted everyone's boats."

Kia has been studying Toyota's Scion brand for three years, he added, "but [we] don't plan to emulate them." Nor does Ford, but last week the No. 2 automaker confirmed it will finally enter the sub-compact segment in the next couple of years. The move also was seen as a rare nod by Ford to a Japanese competitor.

"It's an important segment for any automaker, but Toyota has done a masterful job with Scion," said Barry Engle, general manager of marketing at Ford. Chrysler has signed on with Chinese automaker Chery to jointly produce a small car for the Dodge brand, filling a lack in Chrysler's portfolio.

Posted by Frank at 1:49 PM

Move to Daylight Savings Time Increases Risk of Drowsy Driving

More than a third of drivers admit to falling asleep at wheel; National Road Safety Foundation offers tips to stay awake on the road

NEW YORK -- As clocks spring ahead for the start of daylight savings time this weekend, roads and highways throughout the nation become a bit more dangerous, according to the National Road Safety Foundation, Inc., a non-profit group that provides free driver safety programs for schools and other organizations.

"The change throws off our internal clock, and it can take as long as two weeks for our bodies to adjust," says Adele Kristiansson, director of marketing and legislative affairs at the National Road Safety Foundation.

"Drowsiness is a condition most drivers fail to recognize, and it can be as dangerous as drinking and driving," she adds. "Studies show 60 percent of us have driven while feeling fatigued, and more than a third admit to having fallen asleep at the wheel in the past year. Drowsiness is a factor in a substantial number of traffic crashes."

Experts list several signs that should warn a driver to stop and rest:

Continue reading"Move to Daylight Savings Time Increases Risk of Drowsy Driving"

Posted by Frank at 1:37 PM

LoJack System Recovers Assets and Helps Police Crack Major Organized Crime Rings

Week of High Profile LoJack Recoveries Underscores System's Benefits to Society, Get Violent Criminals Off our Streets

WESTWOOD, Mass. -- In the past week, LoJack Corporation's Stolen Vehicle Recovery System has been instrumental in helping police arrest criminals involved in carjacking, kidnapping and other criminal activities and has again led police to major organized crime rings. The events of the past week underscore LoJack's effectiveness in recovering stolen mobile assets, and in helping police to apprehend the violent criminals behind these and other more serious crimes.

Continue reading"LoJack System Recovers Assets and Helps Police Crack Major Organized Crime Rings"

Posted by Frank at 1:35 PM

Budget Offers Bargain One-Way Rates From Florida

PARSIPPANY, N.J. -- It's that time of year again - Budget is looking to move its fleet north for the summer. Budget Rent A Car System, Inc. today announced special one-way rates from Florida to select locations in the continental United States through a limited-time offer that allows customers to rent a car in one place and return it in another, with unlimited mileage and no drop fees.

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Posted by Frank at 1:31 PM

Volkswagen will introduce new Diesel emissions-reducing technology in 2008

SCR catalytic converter reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 percent

Wolfsburg, Germany - On its new Touareg Volkswagen is introducing one of the cleanest diesel engines in the world: The BlueTDI with SCR catalytic converter. This converter reduces nitrogen dioxide (NOx) emissions by up to 90 percent.

The Touareg BlueTDI, that delivers 165 kW / 225 PS, meets even the most challenging exhaust emissions standards. Currently, the lowest limits are set in the US states California, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont and Maine: In the “Tier2 Bin5” standard. The Touareg BlueTDI being presented in Geneva is one of the first vehicles with a diesel engine that can clear this hurdle too. Especially in the USA, economical turbo-diesels like the V6 BlueTDI can contribute, more than any other current powertrain technology, toward reducing oil consumption and the generation of climate-impacting greenhouse gases.

Continue reading"Volkswagen will introduce new Diesel emissions-reducing technology in 2008"

Posted by Frank at 7:32 AM

Mazda unveils Hakaze concept in Geneva

HIROSHIMA, Japan — “Nagare is the start of a new journey. A journey that will ultimately sow the seeds for an entirely new generation of Mazda vehicles. That is why it is so exciting and exhilarating. Nagare is about capturing motion, energy and beauty, and translating it into forms that people connect with and want to touch. Nagare finds its inspiration in nature, and as such is an incredibly rich source for our designers.” Laurens van den Acker, General Manager Design Division.

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Posted by Frank at 7:29 AM

Chevy Leads the Charge for GM in February

Ed Peper and the Chevy Silverado, North American Truck of the Year

By Ed Peper
Chevrolet General Manager

Wow — what a month and what a great start to 2007! As most of you already know, our February sales results have come in and we surprised a lot of people out there — except ourselves.

The Chevrolet brand was #1 in America for the month — and there’s no question that feels good. The hard work and better planning with our dealers is paying off, starting with our first big promotion of the year with last month’s President’s Day event.

The numbers are all the proof we need — Chevrolet posted total sales of 187,088 deliveries in February 2007, up 5.3% over February 2006. Our retail delivery gains were even stronger, with sales up 10.1% in February 2007 versus last year.

Continue reading"Chevy Leads the Charge for GM in February"

Posted by Frank at 7:25 AM

Hyundai Prices Upscale Veracruz Crossover $11,000 Below Lexus RX350

FOUNTAIN VALLEY -- Hyundai Motor America has announced pricing for the all-new premium crossover, the 2007 Hyundai Veracruz. Hyundai has once again made luxury and performance attainable in previously unthinkable ways with a base price more than $11,000 lower than the Lexus RX350.

Veracruz's designers recognized that the needs and desires of traditional SUV buyers weren't being met and focused on meeting those needs in an elegant and ingenious way. The result is a spacious crossover that delivers refined style, a supple ride and first-rate performance at previously unavailable prices.

The all-new Veracruz is available in three trim levels: GLS, SE and Limited. All models include standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a powerful, fuel-efficient 3.8-liter V6 engine, Hyundai's first six-speed automatic transmission, seating for seven, upscale amenities and more cargo volume than the full-size Mercedes-Benz GL.

2007 Hyundai Veracruz Manufacturers Suggested Retail Pricing:

Continue reading"Hyundai Prices Upscale Veracruz Crossover $11,000 Below Lexus RX350"

Posted by Frank at 7:14 AM

If Your Motor Oil Could Talk

BETHESDA, Md. -- OK, we had an arrangement. You'd change me every 3,000 miles or three months and in exchange, I'd keep critical parts of your precious vehicle's engine lubricated, cleaned and cooled. Here I am, however, dirty and old and still expected to perform. No way.

The Car Care Council reminds motorists that although oil can't speak for itself, it is the engine's life-blood and that changing the oil regularly is still the single most important thing to do to ensure the engine's long life.

What happens when oil ages and why does it need to be changed? With time, oil becomes contaminated by sources including dust, metallic shavings, condensation and even antifreeze. The additives in the oil that protect the engine break down, lose their effectiveness and can act as contaminants or corrosives.

Continue reading"If Your Motor Oil Could Talk"

Posted by Frank at 7:13 AM

Simon Thomas Appointed Vice President of Sales Operations for Nissan Europe

TRAPPES, France -- Simon Thomas has been appointed as vice president of sales operations for Nissan Europe effective April 1, 2007.

Thomas, who is currently vice president for sales and marketing for both the Nissan and Infiniti brands in Nissan Canada, replaces Christian Meunier who will become vice president of model line marketing for Nissan North America.

Continue reading"Simon Thomas Appointed Vice President of Sales Operations for Nissan Europe"

Posted by Frank at 7:09 AM

Nissan Announces Management Changes In North America

NASHVILLE, TN – Nissan today announced changes in the management team of its North American Sales and Marketing Department aimed at furthering the company’s drive to sustainable, long-term profitable growth and to better align the company in the rapidly changing automotive industry. Related changes in senior positions in Nissan Europe and Nissan Canada were announced simultaneously.

“The U.S. market is changing and Nissan’s marketing and sales group must change with it,” said Brad Bradshaw, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing for Nissan North America. “Since 1999, we have nearly doubled the number of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles we are offering and more are coming.

Continue reading"Nissan Announces Management Changes In North America"

Posted by Frank at 7:09 AM

March 8, 2007

NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson to Drive Cadillac CTS-V in Charlotte SPEED GT Race

Johnson to Join Team Cadillac for Fourth Round of SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT at Lowe's Motor Speedway

DETROIT – Reigning NASCAR Nextel Cup champion Jimmie Johnson will drive Team Cadillac's No. 16 CTS-V in the SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT race at Lowe's Motor Speedway on Thursday night, May 24, 2007. The 50-minute race, the fourth round of the 10-race SPEED GT series, will take place on the track's 1.5-mile banked oval with modifications to introduce road racing elements to the course. The SPEED GT race will follow NASCAR Nextel Cup qualifying for the Coca-Cola 600.

Continue reading"NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson to Drive Cadillac CTS-V in Charlotte SPEED GT Race"

Posted by Frank at 3:50 PM

Strong pickup sales suggest a GM revival

General Motors stunned the automotive world last week, but it wasn’t for the usual negative reasons.

Industry followers more accustomed to hearing about large layoffs or sickening sales declines were startled when GM said its U.S. sales rose 3.7 percent in February, even as its two domestic rivals, Ford and Chrysler, posted sizable declines and the overall market was flat.

GM’s gain in the normally soft month was led by strong demand for its sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks including the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado. Even more impressive, the gain came without the huge sales incentives of previous years.

Posted by Frank at 2:28 PM

Certified Sales Continue to Rise

DETROIT — Even though Jack Frost was busy dumping large quantities of snow on much of the country in February, Autodata Corp. reported that certified sales maintained their momentum for the month, coming in at 129,461 units, up 3.2 percent from the previous February.

The company noted that both February 2007 and February 2006 had the same number of selling days — 24. When compared to January's results, February's sales were up 1.8 percent, even though the latter month had one less selling day.

In a breakdown of market share, Autodata said domestics grabbed 48.3 percent of the market, down 2.3 percent, while the European share was 14.1 percent, down 1.1 percent. Asian automakers' share was up 3.4 percent, reaching 37.6 percent.

Overall, General Motors reported it sold 42,855 CPO units, up almost 6 percent from the same month last year.

Posted by Frank at 2:27 PM

DaimlerChrysler chief discounts idea of selling of Chrysler in pieces

GENEVA: DaimlerChrysler's chief executive, Dieter Zetsche, said Tuesday that it would be difficult to dismember Chrysler, as analysts and other outside experts have speculated in recent weeks, because of an integrated production system that binds together its various brands.

"Chrysler Group is very integrated," Zetsche said during an interview here at the Geneva Motor Show. "The technical lines, like platforms, do not go along the same lines as the brands. The less they are aligned with the brands, the more difficult it would be to think of any separation."

Zetsche emphasized that he was making an observation, not commenting on scenarios of how DaimlerChrysler might sell the Chrysler unit — a prospect it confirmed three weeks ago that it was considering.

But his statement seemed to reinforce reports that DaimlerChrysler hopes to unload Chrysler as a single unit, rather than hive off single brands like Jeep.

Posted by Frank at 2:26 PM

GM Exec: Market threatens to kill one of Big Three

Lutz says automaker in best position to survive

GENEVA -- Intense competition and growing overcapacity could threaten the existence of one of Detroit's Big Three automakers, General Motors Corp. Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said Tuesday.

While Lutz dodged questions about GM's interest in buying the Chrysler Group, he said market conditions are conspiring to eliminate one Detroit automaker down the road.

"If you project out present trends, you can only come to the conclusion that it's going to be an extremely difficult environment," Lutz said in an interview at the Geneva auto show.

But Lutz made it clear that GM, in his opinion, is more likely to survive than Chrysler or Ford Motor Co. "Right now, we're in the best position," he said. "We're approaching the end of the beginning of the transformation of GM."

Analyst Bradley Rubin of BMP Paribas in New York agreed a shakeout is likely. "It's true. It is confusing. There are a lot of products out there," he said.

Posted by Frank at 2:25 PM

The all-new Volvo XC70 - more refined appearance but still ready for tough adventures

The all-new Volvo XC70 has admittedly dressed up for a luxurious night out in town, but its appetite for exciting adventure is as large as ever.

"The dark-coloured plastic panels at the bottom are less obvious than on the current model. But as with exclusive outdoor clothing, the protection is placed exactly where it needs to be to withstand the rough stuff," says Volvo Cars Design Director Steve Mattin.

The large dark-coloured plastic panels on the current XC70 model have now been mostly replaced with painted surfaces. This in combination with refined lines and contours and a more dynamic rear section give the all-new XC70 a more elegant, more luxurious appearance.

But don't be fooled into thinking the XC70 is ready to abdicate its position as the sportiest, most capable XC model. Quite the contrary.

Continue reading"The all-new Volvo XC70 - more refined appearance but still ready for tough adventures"

Posted by Frank at 12:55 PM

Yello: World Premiere of the Audi A5

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Visitors to the world premiere of the Audi A5 were greeted by “A yelled hello”. The name of the band “Yello” derives from these three words. Boris Blank and Dieter Meier, both from Switzerland, compose electronic music from sounds samples – and are providing the musical backdrop to Audi’s press event during the Geneva Motor Show. Their compositions are furthermore a foretaste of Yello’s new album, which is set to be released this year.

The music that Yello produces symbolizes progressiveness and perfection. The two musicians’ work is defined by the experimental creation of technically perfect sounds. Yello has composed the music for the new Audi A5 commercial. The campaign will be launched on German TV at the end of May 2007 and then worldwide too.

Continue reading"Yello: World Premiere of the Audi A5"

Posted by Frank at 12:52 PM

Insurephoenix.com Presents Grand Adventure Day at Phoenix Zoo

PHOENIX -- As part of a continued effort to focus on the family, insurephoenix.com and the Phoenix Zoo will offer the Grand Adventure Day this Friday, March 9th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (MST). The latest installment of the Zoo Series sponsored by insurephoenix.com, Grand Adventure Day offers grandparents a FREE Safari Train pass when accompanied by at least one grandchild to the zoo.

The Safari Train offers a narrated tour past most of the major zoo exhibits and your guide will provide insightful commentary on the animals and exhibits and will give helpful hints on what to do and see after the tour. Since the tour lasts about 25 minutes, train riders still have plenty of time to explore the zoo in greater detail afterward.

Continue reading"Insurephoenix.com Presents Grand Adventure Day at Phoenix Zoo"

Posted by Frank at 12:38 PM

Truck Crash Victims, Safety Advocates to Name Most Deadly Trucking States

Report Card to be Issued on Federal Leadership on Truck Safety

WHAT: Truck crash victims' families will be joined by safety advocates
at a news conference where The Truck Safety Coalition will (1)
release a new state-by-state study ranking the most dangerous
states for truck-related traffic deaths and (2) issue a Report
Card grading the U.S. Department of Transportation's level of
effort to address key truck safety issues, such as truck driver
fatigue, truck size and weight, and safety regulation enforcement.
This news announcement will come on the eve of a U.S. House of
Representatives committee hearing on safety repercussions of a
Bush Administration "pilot program" that allows trucks from Mexico
to travel throughout the United States.

WHEN: MONDAY, MARCH 12, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. ET

Continue reading"Truck Crash Victims, Safety Advocates to Name Most Deadly Trucking States"

Posted by Frank at 12:36 PM

Car swapping on your European vacation

Travellers have long taken advantage of the convenience and cost savings of swapping residences for leisure trips. So, why not translate the concept to cars? London-based GoGo Britain is capitalizing on the idea, offering customers a simple, reliable and cheap alternative to rental cars.

Here's how it works: customers make reservations through the GoGo Britain website. A variety of vehicles are available based on destination and date. Since travel plans often change, customers are required to confirm reservations within 48 hours of their trips. There are no mileage restrictions, so swappers can drive to their heart's content as they explore the countryside or city. There currently are eight swapping locations throughout Great Britain, where Belgian, French and Dutch swappers can exchange their left-steered vehicle for one that’s accustomed to driving on the left side of the road, and vice-versa for Brits heading over to the Continent.

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Posted by Frank at 12:31 PM

Detroit Muscle Highlights Race Car Legend Danny Scott at Detroit's Autorama

HOLLY, Mich. -- Detroit Muscle, A CMI-Schneible Group Company, roars into the Detroit Autorama with racing legend Danny Scott's newly rebuilt, award winning 1967-all-steel body Camaro. Scott, featured in 50 Years of Drag Racing, is credited with helping to establish the "Fastest Street Car Drag Racing" series and is one of the pioneers who paved the way for today's "Pro-Street" class.

Awarded the title the "Consummate Racer", Danny Scott, with the support of Detroit Muscle, has rebuilt this award winning car to its original condition. (Right down to the inscription - - "Mom's Headache")!

As CMI-Schneible Group's Chief Engineer and Technical Advisor, Scott and long time "Award winning racing counterpart", Rick Dyer, Master Car Builder for Detroit Muscle, have integrated their passion, experience and knowledge of the original car with the Detroit Muscle resources to provide quality parts, performance enhancements and restoration.

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Posted by Frank at 11:00 AM

BMW Celebrates 11 Years of With Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Donated funds will top $11 million for Susan G. Komen for the Cure as the 237-stop nationwide fundraising tour crosses the country

ATHENS, Ga. -- The million-mile, cross-country grassroots fundraising drive that has raised more than $10 million for Susan G. Komen for the Cure over the past decade kicked off in Athens, Georgia today at Athens BMW, 3040 Atlanta Highway from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Thirty-eight specially-badged BMWs, decorated with pink modernist maps, arrived for the official start of The 11th Annual BMW Ultimate Drive Supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Over the next eight months, the program will travel throughout the country, stopping at 237 BMW Centers nationwide with the goal of donating an additional $1 million to the cause.

Continue reading"BMW Celebrates 11 Years of With Susan G. Komen for the Cure"

Posted by Frank at 10:46 AM

Hyundai Launches Consumer-Driven 'Mash and Seek' Challenge

Contest Finalists Race to Connect With a Team of Strangers and Win a 2007 Hyundai Elantra

FOUNTAIN VALLEY -- Hyundai Motor America announced it has begun accepting applicants for its "Mash and Seek" challenge. On April 30, sixteen randomly selected finalists, who have never met and know nothing about one another, will be placed in teams of four armed with only a single photo -- a collage of teammates' facial features -- and participate in a race to find their teammates. The first team to find one another will win four new 2007 Hyundai Elantras.

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Posted by Frank at 9:38 AM

Penske Truck Leasing Celebrated Grand Opening of a $5 Million Facility in Winston-Salem

READING, Pa. -- Penske Truck Leasing today celebrated the grand opening of a new facility in Winston-Salem, N.C., located on 131 Back Forty Drive. The 11,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility, currently employing eight associates, offers commercial and consumer truck rental services, full-service truck leasing and contract maintenance. About 30 leasing customers are handled at this location, and nearly 300 vehicles are maintained onsite.

Continue reading"Penske Truck Leasing Celebrated Grand Opening of a $5 Million Facility in Winston-Salem"

Posted by Frank at 9:36 AM

BMW Group Increases Global Sales by 2.8%

BMW brand 3.6% up on the same month last year

Munich -- The BMW Group increased its sales by 2.8% in February this year. In total, 97,416 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles were delivered to customers (previous year: 94,781). For the year up to and including February, the corresponding figure is 191,693 units, which is 1.6% above last year (188,616).

As the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, confirmed at the Geneva Motor Show on Tuesday, the company is assuming that the BMW Group will set a new sales record for the year as a whole, with each of the three brands reaching a new all-time high.

Continue reading"BMW Group Increases Global Sales by 2.8%"

Posted by Frank at 8:12 AM

Hyundai Unveils QarmaQ: Advanced Technology Vehicle

Co-Developed with GE Plastics, Sporty Coupé makes debut in Europe

Elastic Front™ safety system reduces pedestrian injury, Eco-focused technologies lower weight, fuel consumption and CO2

GENEVA— At the Geneva International Motor Show today, Hyundai Motor Co. and GE Plastics presented QarmaQ, a first in the Crossover Coupe segment. The QarmaQ is Hyundai's Advanced Technology Demonstration Vehicle (ATDV) that showcases over 30 different environmentally progressive technologies led by the innovative “Elastic Front™”, an innovative solution that can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in Crossover Utility Vehicles (CUV) pedestrian collisions.

Designed at Hyundai Motor Europe's Design and Technical Center in Russelsheim and engineered in close cooperation with GE Plastics, QarmaQ develops and validates over 30 key technologies, which will be selectively incorporated into Hyundai’s new models to be rolled out from 2008-2014.

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Posted by Frank at 8:10 AM

Jeep Brand Signs on as Presenting Sponsor of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 'Soul2Soul Tour 2007'

- The North American 'Jeep presents Soul2Soul Tour 2007' kicks off on June 6 in Omaha, Neb.

- Country music's hottest couple first dated in a Jeep

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- One of country music's most celebrated love stories began with a date in a Jeep. So when reigning first couple Tim McGraw and Faith Hill were looking for a sponsor for their Soul2Soul Tour 2007, the Jeep brand was an obvious choice.

During a press conference today at the Country Music Hall of Fame with McGraw and Hill, the Jeep brand announced that it will be the official presenting sponsor of their new North American tour, "Jeep presents Soul2Soul Tour 2007." The 33-concert tour will kick off in Omaha, Neb., on June 6 and will conclude in Anaheim, Calif., on Aug. 10.

McGraw and Hill explained the story of the "date Jeep." "In 1996 in State College, Penn., we were doing a show together. We took a ride in a borrowed Jeep and that's where we decided that we were going to be together and build a life together," said Hill during the press conference.

Continue reading"Jeep Brand Signs on as Presenting Sponsor of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 'Soul2Soul Tour 2007'"

Posted by Frank at 8:02 AM

Honda's Next–Generation Clean Diesel Engine

On display on the Honda stand in Geneva is an example of the company's recently announced, next-generation diesel engine that uses world-first technology to reduce emissions to a level equal to that of a petrol engine.

Its revolutionary catalytic converter achieves a reduction in emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) sufficient to meet the stringent US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier II/Bin 5 emissions requirements.

The catalytic converter uses an innovative system that uses the reductive reaction of ammonia to 'detoxify' NOx by turning them into harmless nitrogen. However, unlike Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems that use urea injection supplied from a storage tank, Honda's innovative technology uses ammonia generated directly within the catalytic converter.

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Posted by Frank at 7:59 AM

17-Year-Old Actress Becomes World's Youngest Fuel Cell Vehicle Customer

Q'orianka Kilcher Becomes the Youngest Customer to Lease Honda's FCX Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle

LOS ANGELES -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today that it will further advance its real world fuel cell vehicle program by handing the keys to its next retail customer, 17-year-old Q'orianka Kilcher, who earned praise as the young star of the 2005 film "The New World."

As the ultimate expression of Honda's technological and environmental leadership, the zero-emissions Honda FCX is not simply a car of the future, but a real world vehicle on the road today that has met all applicable federal safety standards. A hydrogen-powered vehicle with zero emissions, the FCX represents one of the most important transportation solutions and the ultimate in clean mobility for the future.

"The best way to demonstrate the importance of next generation vehicles like the Honda FCX is to put the next generation of drivers behind the wheel," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "Q'orianka Kilcher will be driving around Hollywood in the ultimate environmental status symbol, literally and figuratively driving the change toward a hydrogen future."

"As a young person today, I feel it is important to take initiative toward seeking positive solutions and stepping up the quest toward clean energy and environmental preservation," said Q'orianka Kilcher. "When I first started pursuing my dream of a zero emissions vehicle as my first car, it seemed like a pretty unrealistic dream. With Honda's innovation and support, my dream of helping the environment became a reality!"

Continue reading"17-Year-Old Actress Becomes World's Youngest Fuel Cell Vehicle Customer"

Posted by Frank at 7:57 AM

Knowles Family Receives Award for Economic Empowerment at the Houston Hip-Hop Financial Summit

The 2007 National 'Get Your Money Right Tour' Kicked Off with Russell Simmons, Monica, LeToya Luckett, Solange Knowles, Chingo Bling, Slim Thug, Belly, Short Dawg, Mathew Knowles, Bun-B, Bryan-Michael Cox, Free and Dr. Benjamin Chavis

HOUSTON -- The Hip-Hop Summit Action Network (HSAN), along with title sponsor Chrysler Financial and presenting sponsor Anheuser-Busch, Inc welcomed a capacity crowd of more than 2,700 people to kick off the third annual Hip-Hop Summit on Financial Empowerment National Tour at Houston's Texas Southern University. The "Get Your Money Right" tour features the powerful combination of hip-hop stars and Chrysler Financial financing experts to teach young people about personal finance.

Continue reading"Knowles Family Receives Award for Economic Empowerment at the Houston Hip-Hop Financial Summit"

Posted by Frank at 7:56 AM

The all-new Volvo XC70 - ongoing capable success in a refined package

* Ongoing "crossover" success, More luxury and added capability

* Target 40,000 cars per year

* U.S. the largest market, Sales start in August 2007

When the first XC model from Volvo Cars took to the roads in 1996, it was not only an immediate sales success; it also carved out an entirely new Cross Country segment. Now the third generation of the Volvo XC70 steps into the spotlight at the Geneva Motor Show. With its original recipe intact - but now with added luxury and in an even more capable package than ever.

Continue reading"The all-new Volvo XC70 - ongoing capable success in a refined package"

Posted by Frank at 7:56 AM

AISI Selects Pontiac Solstice for its Inaugural Great Designs in Steel Automotive Excellence Award

DETROIT -- The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) announced today that it has selected the product engineering and manufacturing team of the Pontiac Solstice for its inaugural Great Designs in Steel Automotive Excellence Award for the innovative and cost-effective use of advanced high-strength steels.

The award recognizes individuals or teams from automaker, supplier and academic ranks who embrace innovation and make significant contributions to the advancement of steel in the automotive marketplace.

"The Pontiac Solstice redefines shape and styling with a crisp, sleek design that offers both outstanding appearance and engineering performance at a reasonable price," said Brian Aranha, vice president of Dofasco, Inc. and chairman of AISI's Automotive Applications Committee. "The fact that General Motors Corporation utilized advanced high-strength steels for a stylish, affordable, low-volume vehicle, clearly demonstrates how recent advances in material and processing technology enable steel to offer significant advantages in structural efficiency, quality and cost for new vehicle designs."

Continue reading"AISI Selects Pontiac Solstice for its Inaugural Great Designs in Steel Automotive Excellence Award"

Posted by Frank at 7:52 AM

Carmakers Offer 'Live' Chat To Online Shoppers

WHEN SATURN WANTED TO GIVE online shoppers an assist last year, it added a feature to its consumer Web site that went beyond videos, animated graphics, pop-ups or other eye candy. It launched a program, "24/7 Chat," that lets consumers communicate anonymously with a Saturn rep. And Ford is using a chat program on its Lincoln Web site for the Lincoln Mkz sedan.

Now, Dodge is launching its own online chat program to engage site visitors in real-time conversations while they configure vehicles or browse.

The effort initially supports the Nitro vehicle, although the company has been running a pilot program for the service since last year.

Dodge gets 5 million visitors per month on its site, according to James Kenyon, a Chrysler Group representative. Since Dodge launched the pilot program, begun as a way to support the launch of Dodge Caliber and Ram, in the fourth quarter last year, the company has hosted about 1,500 chats per month. Kenyon says the chat function will launch on the microsite for the new Dodge Avenger "within the next few weeks."

Posted by Frank at 7:48 AM

Russel Automotive Announces Opening of Their New 34,000 Square Foot Toyota Showroom

ENDICOTT CITY -- The Russel Automotive Group, a privately held automotive company that currently owns and operates five car dealerships and seven manufacturer brands, in Baltimore, MD, announced today the launch of their new web site, and finalized the date for the Grand opening of their new 34,000 square foot Toyota showroom!

Russel's creed is simple. "We're changing the way you buy cars; one family at a time", states Melanie Russel, of Russel BMW. "We realize the needs of our customers, particularly their needs for convenience, selection, shopping alternatives and personalized service."

Continue reading"Russel Automotive Announces Opening of Their New 34,000 Square Foot Toyota Showroom"

Posted by Frank at 7:46 AM

America's best car company

Two Tinny sedans left the port of Yokohama in August 1957, bound for California - the first exports from Toyota. The four-door clunkers flopped. The car, which looked like a brick with a roof on top, was prone to overheating and vibrated at speeds of more than 60 miles per hour. By late 1960, Toyota realized it had made a mistake and pulled the Toyopet Crown off the market.

A less determined company might never have returned after this humiliation. But Toyota (Charts) came back a few years later with a better car and has gone from strength to strength ever since.

The world's most profitable automaker - and soon to be its biggest - now has a 15% market share in the U.S., where it sold 2.5 million cars and trucks last year. Because Toyota is already bigger than Chrysler in the U.S. and is about to pass Ford, Automotive News, the industry bible, has retired the "Big Three" moniker; GM, Ford, and Chrysler will henceforth be known as the Detroit Three.

Toyota's presence in the U.S. is now so routine that the 3,322 business leaders Fortune surveyed named Toyota one of America's Most Admired Companies for the second year in a row - boosting it to third place overall, behind two American perennials, General Electric and Starbucks. Toyota has returned the compliment, making an entrance into that most American of sports - we're talking NASCAR - and introducing a full-sized, Texas-built pickup truck, the Tundra.

As the story of the tarnished Crown hints, nothing was inevitable about Toyota's success. It has managed to survive discriminatory taxes, import restraints, and the occasional xenophobic hissy fit - U.S. workers taking sledgehammers to imported cars - to become something of a model citizen.

Posted by Frank at 7:43 AM

DaimlerChrysler Launches Lease Service for Small Business Owners

- CompleteLease addresses the needs of entrepreneurs who constantly strive to add value to their businesses and to improve customer service

- 'You handle your business, we'll handle the rest'

INDIANAPOLIS-- DaimlerChrysler Financial Services Americas today announced its entry into the trucking industry's full service leasing market. Its comprehensive Sterling Trucks CompleteLease and Chrysler Financial CompleteLease initiatives are aimed at small business owners in the vocational segment.

CompleteLease was announced to the news media here covering the National Truck Equipment Association's (NTEA) "Work Truck Show" at the RCA Dome.

Continue reading"DaimlerChrysler Launches Lease Service for Small Business Owners"

Posted by Frank at 7:40 AM

Jeff Burton Blog on the Wireless Racing Portal

Burton Gives Exclusive Insights on Topics on and off the Track

SAN ANTONIO -- One of motorsports' most talented drivers and insightful interviews is now sharing his views on this year's season in a new blog available only through the MEdia Net Racing Portal from the wireless unit of AT&T Inc.

Jeff Burton, driver of the No. 31 Cingular Wireless Chevrolet and 18-time NASCAR Cup Series winner, is launching the Burton Blog, a unique perspective on a variety of issues as varied as candid reviews of his race performances and light-hearted commentary on pop culture. Cingular, now AT&T, is making the unique content available to its more than 61 million customers exclusively on its MEdia Net Racing Portal.

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Posted by Frank at 7:38 AM

March 7, 2007

Public Invited to Preview Nextel Cup Race Car at 'Autorama' at Detroit's' Cobo Center

DETROIT -- The public is invited to stop by AAA Michigan's Motorsports display at the Detroit Autorama at Cobo Center Friday through Sunday (March 9-11).

AAA will have the new #6 AAA Ford NEXTEL Cup race car on display, and fans will have the opportunity to race in the #6 AAA simulator in a virtual experience of roaring around Daytona International Speedway at more than 180 mph.

Everyone winning their race in the simulator will receive a certificate noting the speed they attained. The top speed in AAA's simulator will win a 1/24 die-cast model of the #6 AAA Ford.

Additionally, those stopping by the AAA Motorsports display can enter to win two tickets to the Michigan International Speedway June 17 NEXTEL Cup Race.

Continue reading"Public Invited to Preview Nextel Cup Race Car at 'Autorama' at Detroit's' Cobo Center"

Posted by Frank at 4:34 PM

DaimlerChrysler Partners with Actor Terrence Howard

DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund Grants $38,000 to Settlement Music School in the Name of Actor Terrence Howard

Donation will benefit the nationally-recognized Kaleidoscope Pre-School Arts Enrichment Program

PHILADELPHIA -- DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund announces its plan to once again join forces with Academy Award-Nominated Actor Terrence Howard to donate a $38,000 grant to Settlement Music School to help fund their Kaleidoscope Pre-School Arts Enrichment Program.

Howard, a long time musician, collaborated with DaimlerChrysler -- a huge supporter of the arts and youth initiatives -- to reach youth who often miss the opportunity to study arts through inner-city school programs. The announcement was made today by Frank Fountain, Senior Vice President, External Affairs and Public Policy (Auburn Hills), Chrysler Group at Settlement Music School's 'Mary Louise Curtis Branch' in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Posted by Frank at 4:29 PM

Goodyear Advances on 'Fortune' List of Most Admired Companies

AKRON, Ohio -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE:GT) , North America's leading tiremaker, has been recognized as one of the most admired companies in America by Fortune magazine.

Goodyear was the highest-ranked tire company and ranked No. 2 overall in Fortune's America's Most Admired Companies' Motor Vehicle Parts category. In 2006, Goodyear was ranked fifth among Motor Vehicle Parts companies.

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Posted by Frank at 4:28 PM

Porsche to Open Ad Agency Review

Creative Incumbent Carmichael Lynch Invited to Pitch

DETROIT -- Porsche Cars North America is readying a review of its creative and media accounts and may bundle the two, according to the auotmaker's VP-marketing, David Pryor. He said he expects to pick a consultant to help with the agency search in the next two weeks and that the entire review will be completed by the end of July.

Carmichael Lynch, Minneapolis, which won the carmaker's creative account in early 1999 after a review, has been invited to defend, said Mr. Pryor, who was promoted to his current post last December. He declined comment on whether media incumbent Kastner & Partners, Los Angeles, was invited. "We will discuss the inclusion of our other partners with our consultant."

He said Porsche is "very happy" with Carmichael Lynch's work and the upcoming review doesn't represent any dissatisfaction with the agency. "However, we feel that in the spirit of continuous improvement that is part of everything we do here at Porsche, we had the responsibility to see how the market has changed since our last review cycle."

Posted by Frank at 4:25 PM

GM Focusing on Design at 2007 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance

Detroit – Hundreds of elegant and extraordinary vehicles will be on display March 9 - 11 at the 2007 Amelia Island, Fla., Concours d’Elegance. GM Global Vice President of Design Ed Welburn will be on hand as an event judge and will continue emphasizing GM’s design renaissance.

“As one of only three Concours events in the country, this is a design experience like no other, and we are glad to be showcasing GM designs spanning the years,” said Welburn. “The historically significant cars and trucks at the Concours continue to be an inspiration to me and to other designers around the world.”

GM is displaying six concept vehicles at the 2007 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in support of the event theme (Great Road Races) and the event organizer’s request for Corvair Concept cars:

Continue reading"GM Focusing on Design at 2007 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance"

Posted by Frank at 3:31 PM

First Race for the 2007 Audi R10 TDI

MUNICH, Germany - The 2007 Audi R10 TDI, which was unveiled to the world’s public on Monday evening in Munich, contests its first race on Saturday (17 March) at Sebring (USA). The 12-hour race in "Sunshine State” Florida is the opening race and one of the highlights of the American Le Mans Series, and also dress rehearsal for the Le Mans 24 Hours for Audi Sport’s team.

It is not only the new design that distinguishes the further developed Audi R10 TDI from its successful predecessor that started its winning streak exactly one year ago and remains unbeaten since then. To ensure that it remains the car to beat in 2007, innumerable details were optimized on the LM P1 Prototype.

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Posted by Frank at 2:20 PM

Avoid the costly long-term effects of a ticket

Cool it! It’s the fuzz! How to react if you get pulled over

The wailing siren. The flashing lights. The sense of impending doom. Is this bringing back unpleasant memories? Sorry about that.

If you’ve ever been pulled over by a police officer and experienced that sudden panic over how to conduct yourself, you’re likely to find this column useful.

And if you ever get a ticket at some point down the road, the tips provided here can help you avoid increases in your auto insurance premiums for years to come.

1. Don’t try anything funny. This isn’t the time to be argumentative — or, even worse, make the officer worry about whether or not you might be dangerous. Pull over promptly and carefully, turn your engine off, roll down your driver’s side window and keep your hands clearly visible on your steering wheel. Be excessively polite, and only go fumbling around for documents when you’re asked to do so.

Posted by Frank at 2:17 PM

GMC Renews Sponsorship of the Savannah International Boat Show

Charleston, South Carolina --- JBM & Associates, LLC, is pleased to announce GMC as the corporate sponsor and official tow vehicle of the 2007 Savannah International Boat Show. The Show will be held March 30-April 1, 2007, at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center and in-water on the Savannah River.

"GMC's partnership with the Show has proven to be an extremely successful marketing tool for GMC and our local dealers. We are pleased to be sponsoring the Show for the third consecutive year," said Dave Sickmeyer, Marketing Manager for GMC in the Southeast. This year's participating Georgia-South Carolina GMC dealers are; Critz, Franklin Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC, Hilton Head Automotive, Nesmith Chevrolet Buick Pontiac GMC, Roberson Pontiac Buick GMC and Woody Folsom Automotive.

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Posted by Frank at 2:16 PM

The BMW M3 Concept Car

The Vision of Ultimate Driving Pleasure: The BMW M3 Concept Car.

Its very name is a symbol for unique performance on the racetrack and in everyday traffic. For two decades, BMW M3 has embodied the athletic heart of the brand in its most fundamental and succinct form. Its dominating role in motor sports and the ultimate driving experience it affords the driver on the road are inseparably intertwined. The qualities on which this synthesis is founded have given the BMW M3 the exceptional status it enjoys the world over.

At BMW M GmbH, engineers have persisted in continuing this success story with the presentation of the new BMW M3 Concept Car. The concept study being presented to the public for the first time at the 77th International Motor Show in Geneva (8th to 18th of March, 2007) gives a first impression of what a future BMW M3 might look like.

The basic form for the BMW M3 Concept Car is a derivative of the new BMW 3 Series Coupé. The few components adopted directly from the series model are the headlamps and taillamps and, as the only body elements, the two doors and the luggage compartment lid. In all other respects, the BMW M3 Concept Car, which is being presented in the Chrome Shadow finish characteristic of BMW M GmbH concept studies, is obviously an individualistic and athletic vehicle with technology at the focus of its engineering.

Continue reading"The BMW M3 Concept Car"

Posted by Frank at 7:53 AM

Rare Look at the Exotic 2008 Maserati Quattroporte

'This is an Agile-Handling, Exotic Speed Machine,'

COSTA MESA, Calif. -- Lead Auto Expert, Mark Perleberg recently got a rare test drive of the new 2008 Maserati Quattroporte (http://www.maserati.com/).

"The 2008 Maserati Quattroporte is a car designed specifically for the luxury sedan buyer who wants to break out of the norm," said Perleberg. "This is an agile-handling, exotic speed machine with interesting curb appeal."

Since its introduction at the 2003 Frankfurt Auto Show, the new 2008 Maserati Quattroporte was designed to be a high-performance luxury sedan for the discriminating buyer. Equipped with a high-revving 4.2-liter V8 engine that cranks out 400 horsepower (and a perfectly-proportioned balance of weight for optimum handling), the new 2008 Maserati Quattroporte is a perfect alternative for the BMW 7-Series or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class buyer, according to Perleberg.

Continue reading"Rare Look at the Exotic 2008 Maserati Quattroporte"

Posted by Frank at 7:49 AM

Airstream Bambi Selected by Museum of Modern Art for Collection

JACKSON CENTER, Ohio -- Thor Industries, Inc., the largest manufacturer of recreation vehicles and mid-size buses, announced today that The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York had acquired from Thor an Airstream Bambi travel trailer for the Museum's collection.

Airstream, Thor's flagship brand, is the world's most recognized recreation vehicle, and is an icon of American design. The restored 1963 Airstream Bambi, representing the first design iteration of a model line that continues today, over 40 years later, will go on public display at MoMA on March 7. The Airstream Bambi becomes only the seventh automotive design in MoMA's collection, joining famed designs such as the Volkswagen Beetle, the Jaguar E-Type, and the original Jeep.

Continue reading"Airstream Bambi Selected by Museum of Modern Art for Collection"

Posted by Frank at 7:45 AM

Volvo at the Geneva Motor Show: Two Global Debuts

All-New XC70, the next generation of Volvo's segment defining crossover and the All-New V70, staking claim as a segment leader take the stage in Europe's first major auto show

GENEVA -- The all-new Volvo XC70 is being introduced at the Geneva Motor Show with comprehensive changes inside and out. With new styling cues, improved driving dynamics, inspiring technological applications, added luxury and of course new developments in safety, Volvo ups the ante in taking its popular crossover to the next level.

"We had a winning concept from the very outset and we have continuously refined it," says Fredrik Arp, president and CEO of Volvo Car Corp. "The all-new XC70 maintains its tough, capable attitude while at the same time growing more comfortable. Additionally, our design team has given the vehicle a more elegant, more luxurious look."

Continue reading"Volvo at the Geneva Motor Show: Two Global Debuts"

Posted by Frank at 7:42 AM

RollsRoyce Phantom Whispers into Geneva

The new Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé will make its European debut at the Geneva motor show this week. Production of the new model will begin at the company’s UK manufacturing plant at Goodwood in the summer.

The two-door, four-seat convertible is a less formal interpretation of classic Rolls-Royce design than its four-door stable mate, the Phantom. Using the lightweight rigidity of an all-aluminium spaceframe, it marries modern technology to a sleek, streamlined convertible body.

Hand-built using the finest quality materials to the exacting standards of Rolls-Royce, the new Phantom Drophead Coupé is exciting customers around the world.

Continue reading"RollsRoyce Phantom Whispers into Geneva"

Posted by Frank at 7:36 AM

Strong sales start for Volvo Cars in 2007

The two first months of 2007 shows a sales increase of 9.7 percent for Volvo Car Corporation globally compared with the same period 2006. In Europe the sales increase is up by 13.7 percent. The positive sales trend started already during the fourth quarter last year, with an increase of more than five percent, and then continued with strong global sales showings in January (+6.3%) and again in February (+13.5%).

"The strong upturn in sales is very encouraging and it is the result of our new-model launches in 2006. Sales of the new S80, C70 and C30 are now starting to show a strong demand from customers," says Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Cars.

It is Europe that is doing very well, in particular the Netherlands, Belgium and Italy. Developing markets such as China and Russia are also continuing to show considerable growth at 83 and 127 percent respectively so far this year.

Continue reading"Strong sales start for Volvo Cars in 2007"

Posted by Frank at 7:33 AM

Triple Premiere for the New Mercedes-Benz C-Class