Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Car Tech Archives

August 15, 2008

Chrysler to Get In-Car Internet

It seems that Chrysler has beat other car manufacturers to the punch and will begin selling cars equipped with wireless internet come August 25th.

But of course it will come with a fee. $499 just for the Uconnect equipment, $50 to get that equipment installed, $35 dollars to get that equipment activated, and finally $29 a month to use that equipment.

Who else can sense a law that prohibits using the internet while driving just around the corner?

August 13, 2008

Mercedes-Benz to introduce Attention Assist

Stuttgart - Accident researchers at Mercedes-Benz are acutely aware of the danger in nodding off at the wheel (the "one-second nap"). In the view of these specialists, long holiday journeys without intermediate breaks involve a high risk of overtiredness, whose signs drivers often fail to notice in time.

For this reason Mercedes-Benz has developed the innovative driver support system Attention Assist. This is able to recognise driver fatigue at an early stage, and warn the driver that a break is called for soon. The system will enter series production in spring 2009.

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4 million Volvo cars built in Ghent plant

On August 8, the four millionth car was built at Volvo Cars Gent. It was a Volvo V50, a sporty R Design version, ordered by VDL, a customer from Breda in Netherlands.

Volvo Cars Gent has been building cars in Belgium since 1965. Initially the plant was set up to avoid the country's high import taxes on finished cars, but over the years Volvo Cars Gent has, together with Volvo Cars Torslanda, become one of the two main Volvo Cars factories.

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Lincoln enhances color palette

DEARBORN, Mich. -- It shines, it glitters, it energizes and allures. In fact, the importance and psychology of color is unmistakable, even in the automotive realm.

"It's critical," says Susan Sage, Color and Materials design manager, at Ford Motor Company. "Color creates an aesthetic emotion. If it's a color that the customer loves, if it gives them that sense of balance and comfort, they'll want it. It can make or break a sale."

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Design Points Of The 2009 Toyota Venza

Torrance, CA - The 2009 Toyota Venza, scheduled to go on sale later this year, is the first example of Toyota's new direction in passenger car design combining elegance, innovation, comfort and utility.

"We wanted to create something entirely different," said Kevin Hunter, president of Toyota's Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., and Ann Arbor, Mich. "Not an SUV, not a wagon, not a coupe and not a sedan. We aimed for a more road-focused vehicle and sporty direction."

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Honda honors top suppliers

TORRANCE, Calif. - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. President and CEO Tetsuo Iwamura today presented the company's Premier Partner Award to 15 American Honda suppliers for demonstrating excellence in quality, value and customer service.

This year's award recipients were selected from among 53 suppliers nominated by American Honda associates, out of more than 1,000 eligible companies.

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GM to Invest $445 Million in New Plant, Thai Operations

Rayong, Thailand - General Motors is investing $445 million to build an engine plant and upgrade an existing vehicle assembly plant here, company Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner announced today.

The new 14,492-square-meter (156,000-square-foot) facility will be GM's first diesel engine plant in Southeast Asia and will provide four-cylinder diesel engines for use by Chevrolet in Thailand and other global markets and brands.

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August 12, 2008

Ford Sets Best-in-Class Quality Targets on New Global Small Vehicles

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. -- After climbing to the upper ranks in vehicle quality in the past two years, Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) said today it has set an aggressive new target -- best-in-class initial quality for compact cars the company will launch in North America in 2010.

"We aim to launch our new compact vehicles at 800 things gone wrong per 1,000 vehicles," said Bennie Fowler, Ford's group vice president, Global Quality. "That's more than 500 TGWs less than the predicted industry average -- and we believe these levels will ensure our upcoming small cars will achieve industry-best initial quality."

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Chrysler Kicks Off Woodward Dream Cruise with '09 PT Dream Cruiser

ROYAL OAK, Mich. -- Chrysler kicked off the annual Woodward Dream Cruise today at Duggan's Irish Pub with the introduction of a special-edition PT Cruiser.

Announced in conjunction with Detroit's famed Woodward Dream Cruise, the new 2009 Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 5 will be available this fall as a limited-production version of the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

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GM Offers More Fuel-efficient Pickup Trucks, SUVs

DETROIT -- General Motors Corp. is releasing new, more fuel-efficient versions of its full-size pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles later this fall. The XFE -- or extra fuel economy -- versions of the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks and Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs will get one mile per gallon more in both city and highway fuel economy than non-XFE versions.

The boost will give them a total of 15 miles per gallon in the city and 21 on the highway. The XFE pickups and SUVs will be available in the fourth quarter of this year.

Ford jumps into quality race

TRAVERSE CITY -- Ford Motor Co. threw down the gauntlet to its Japanese rivals Monday, vowing to snatch the quality title from rival Toyota Motor Corp., starting with the launch of its new small car lineup in 2010.

"That's right, I said it. Ford Motor Co. will be the quality leader," promised Bennie Fowler, Ford's group vice president of global quality. "This time, we're playing for all the marbles -- and we aim to win."

To help achieve its goal, the Dearborn automaker will enroll hourly workers from each of its U.S. factories in a rigorous quality training program at Wayne State University that is usually reserved for managers.

Chrysler Hunts for Contract Jobs from Other Automakers

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. -- Automaker Chrysler is seeking manufacturing alliances with other automakers in a bid to "generate cash as a smaller company," Chrysler's manufacturing chief said Monday. Chrysler has "the flexibility" to perform contract manufacturing for other automakers, Frank Ewasyshyn, Chrysler's executive vice president in charge of manufacturing, said during an industry forum in Traverse City. "We have looked at partners for a lot of things and we are going to continue to do that for the best business model," Ewasyshyn said.

August 11, 2008

BMW Hydrogen 7 hits the road

Portland, ME -- The BMW Hydrogen 7 -- the first hydrogen-powered luxury sedan -- joins an unprecedented cross-country journey featuring hydrogen-powered cars by the world's leading automakers in the 2008 Hydrogen Road Tour.

From August 11 - 23, the hydrogen powered convoy will travel from Portland, Maine to Santa Monica, California with one goal: to call on congressional leaders to support the creation of a nationwide hydrogen fueling station infrastructure.

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Zero Emission Volkswagen Tiguan will Travel to 31 Cities

HERNDON, Va.- Volkswagen's Hydrogen Fuel Cell concept vehicle, the HyMotion Tiguan, will travel from Portland, Maine to Los Angeles, Calif. over the next 13 days as part of the National Hydrogen Road Tour.

A dedicated Web blog, vwhydrogentour.com will provide daily updates and photos from the historic trip.

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BMW supportts Automotive Youth Education

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- Passaic County Technical Institute students got a glimpse of their future with the donation of a BMW 745i which will be used as a state of the art automotive teaching tool.

The students are members of Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES), a nationwide partnership among automotive manufacturers, participating dealers, and selected high/prep schools.

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Diesel Myths Dispelled

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. -- Would you consider buying a clean diesel passenger vehicle? What if owning a clean diesel vehicle translated into savings for your pocket book and helped protect the environment, without sacrificing vehicle performance?

If you are in the Detroit area on Labor Day weekend, make your way to Detroit's beautiful Belle Isle where you will have a chance to see clean diesel technology in action. The Audi R10 TDI racecar with Bosch clean diesel technology will be showcased at the 2008 Detroit Sports Car Challenge.

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Researchers Work to Turn Car's Exhaust into Power

WARREN, Mich. -- The stinky, steaming air that escapes from a car's tailpipe could help us use less gas. Researchers are competing to meet a challenge from the U.S. Department of Energy: Improve fuel economy 10 percent by converting wasted exhaust heat into energy that can help power the vehicle.

General Motors Corp. is close to reaching the goal, as is a BMW AG supplier working with Ohio State University. Their research into thermoelectrics - the science of using temperature differences to create electricity - couldn't come at a better time as high gas prices accelerate efforts to make vehicles as efficient as possible.

Ford Gains in Supplier Rankings

BIRMINGHAM, Mich. -- The turmoil in the U.S. auto industry is reflected in the 2008 rankings of the six major North American automakers by their suppliers, with Toyota and Nissan dropping significantly and Honda virtually tying Toyota for the best working relations among the automakers.

Chrysler is in free-fall, continuing its decline from 2006 and is now in last place -- slightly below General Motors -- but Ford improved dramatically and jumped two ranks to fourth place. The rankings are part of the annual Working Relations Study conducted by Planning Perspectives, Inc., Birmingham, MI.

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August 10, 2008

Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Launch Underway

DETROIT, Mich. - The launch of the world's first hybrid applied to a large luxury SUV, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, begins this month.

Achieving a 50-percent improvement in fuel economy in city driving, Escalade Hybrid arrives at Cadillac dealerships in the United States with an MSRP of $71,685. That represents a premium of only $3,600 over a comparably-equipped Escalade.

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Nissan previews new enviro-vehicles

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled all-electric and original hybrid electric prototype vehicles, both powered by advanced lithium-ion batteries.

Under the NISSAN GT 2012 business plan, the company has committed to zero-emission vehicle leadership, and has announced plans to introduce an all-electric vehicle in 2010 and mass market globally in 2012.

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2009 Honda Ridgeline Adds Power, More Standard Equipment

Torrance, Calif. -- Updated for 2009 with a total of 50 significant changes and new features, the Honda Ridgeline takes on a bolder look and feel with new exterior and interior styling along with a more powerful engine.

A trailer hitch becomes standard on every model, and newly-introduced premium features include Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and a rearview backup camera on Ridgeline RTL models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System.

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Nissan previews collision-free technology

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled an All-Around Collision Free prototype incorporating two all-new technologies - Side Collision Prevention (SCP) and Back-up Collision Prevention (BCP). Incorporating the available Distance Control Assist (DCA) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems, this latest prototype vehicle further extends Nissan's "Safety Shield" concept to help protect the vehicle and its occupants from potential risks coming from multiple directions.

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Ford introduces powertrain upgrades for 2009

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company is meeting the rapidly changing market and shifting customer preferences with a new 2009 lineup that features an array of all-new or upgraded vehicles as well as major improvements in fuel economy, smart technology, safety features and quality across its vehicle portfolio.

"This is without question the best Ford lineup we've ever produced - and it comes at a critically important time for the company," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "Our product-led transformation is well under way, and there is much more to come."

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Volvo enthusiasts gather in Gothenburg

Coming up this weekend is this summer's VROM - the Volvo Rendezvous for Owners & Members, when Volvo enthusiasts from all over Europe flock to Gothenburg.

VROM is a three-day event for owners and fans of classic Volvos. It has been held in Gothenburg situated on the Swedish west coast every year since 1987.

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August 9, 2008

Gumball Rally Kicks Off in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO -- This Saturday, August 9, superstars and super cars converge in San Francisco for the official kick-off of the 10th Anniversary Gumball 3000 Rally. More than 100 of the most amazing cars, driven by film stars, musicians, athletes and billionaires, will take an incredible eight-day journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, North Korea and China.

The "Gumballers," driving by day and reveling at VIP parties by night, will witness the Mass Games celebration in North Korea as part of a "global friendship initiative" as well as attend the Olympic finals in Beijing.

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Auto Dealers Take Child Passenger Safety Message to Public Television

MCLEAN, Va. -- The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) is promoting September as Child Passenger Safety Month. And to further amplify its child safety messages, NADA is teaming up with SeeMore's Playhouse(TM), a children's public television series that reaches an audience of 60 million homes.

Since NADA's national child passenger safety campaign was launched six years ago, auto dealers have inspected more than one million child safety seats and discovered that nine out of 10 seats are improperly installed or need repair.

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Chrysler's car plans in question

Reports that Chrysler LLC and Nissan Motor Co. are in discussions to jointly produce midsize cars raise questions about the future of Chrysler's car lineup.

If the Auburn Hills automaker is turning to Nissan for help, progress may have slowed or hit a snag in Chrysler's effort to redevelop its midsize cars, analysts said Thursday. That initiative, dubbed Project D, involves a special team of top engineers and designers charged with developing replacements for the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger sedans.

Cars are getting more reliable

DETROIT -- Compact and midsize cars are showing gains in long-term quality, says J.D. Power, which is good news for drivers looking to downsize into more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Power's Vehicle Dependability Study, out Thursday, shows that long-term quality is up 5% industrywide. Improvements in small and compact cars made up more than half of the gains.

Neal Oddes, director of product research and analysis for J.D. Power, says it helps that smaller cars tend to have fewer gadgets that can fail, such as navigation systems, than do larger cars. Oddes also says owners of smaller cars are more accepting of problems such as wind noise -- a common complaint among car owners -- than owners of luxury brands.

GM agrees to lend Delphi $300 million against bankruptcy

General Motors Corp agreed to lend Delphi Corp a further $300 million as the automaker's former parts unit struggles to exit bankruptcy protection, courts papers show.

Delphi, in court papers filed Wednesday, said GM would increase its loan to the auto parts supplier to $950 million from $650 million so Delphi can maintain a minimum level of liquidity.

A hearing with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New York is scheduled for August 26.

Nissan shows test models of electric car

YOKOSUKA, Japan -- Nissan showed on Wednesday a spiffy electric car packed with a battery developed by the Japanese automaker to deliver more power than the type common in today's hybrids.

The electric vehicle, set for sale in 2010, carried a 300 kilogram (660 pounds) lithium-ion battery and still zipped around a Nissan Motor Co. test course, accelerating more quickly than comparable gas-engine cars.

It was extremely quiet, absent of engine noise _ a trademark of electric vehicles. Details such as cruising range are yet to be determined, Nissan officials said.

Ford boosts better fuel economy in engines

Ford Motor Co.'s group vice president for global product development, Derrick Kuzak, said Wednesday that Ford would "achieve class-leading fuel economy" for its new cars and trucks in North America "through unprecedented spending on advanced gasoline engines."
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That includes EcoBoost, a Ford-branded engine technology that combines gasoline-injection with turbocharging for up to a 20% improvement in fuel economy, as well as other technologies.

Chrysler, Nissan in Talks on Cars

DETROIT -- Chrysler LLC is in talks with Nissan Motor Co. about jointly producing midsize cars, a partnership that would move the U.S. auto maker toward a radical new business model.

The two companies agreed earlier this year to team up on pickup trucks and subcompact cars. Since then, they have been discussing an agreement under which Nissan would produce midsize sedans that Chrysler would sell in the U.S. under its own name, people familiar with the matter say.

A Chrysler spokesman said the company has "no new alliances" to announce, and declined to comment on any discussions it might be having.

August 8, 2008

Nissan doubles fuel cell efficiency

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has developed a new fuel cell stack with double the power density of the previous generation stack.

The new fuel cell stack also achieves a 35% cost reduction mainly due to half the use of platinum, a key material used in the production of fuel cell stacks. Test fleets incorporating the improved fuel cell stacks will be operational by the end of this year.

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Bill Would Let Insurers Track Where, When, How Californians Drive

SANTA MONICA, Calif. -- Legislation that would allow insurance companies to track when, where and how Californians drive passed the Senate Appropriations committee today.

The bill authorizes different insurance rates for drivers who choose to protect their privacy and those who agree to place a "black box" in their cars.

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Mitsubishi to Provide i MiEV Electric Vehicles to Southern California Edison

TOKYO -- Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced today that it has signed a letter of intent with Southern California Edison (SCE) to forge a unique collaboration for testing and evaluation of the new i MiEV electric vehicle.

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First Three Years of Car Ownership Has a Major Impact on Customer Satisfaction

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Deterioration in vehicle quality during the first three years of ownership -- determined by comparing long-term dependability rates to initial quality problem rates -- strongly affects overall customer satisfaction as well as customer willingness to recommend their vehicle model, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study(SM) (VDS) released today.

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August 7, 2008

New Golf points the way to Volkswagen's future

WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen is unveiling its most important automotive secret of the year: the new Golf. The car - Europe's most successful with more than 26 million sold - was improved in all areas.

"This sixth generation of Golf cars will completely redefine the quality and comfort level of its class over broad categories, offering more customer value than ever before", says Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board at Volkswagen AG.

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2009 Ford Edge sports industry-first Blind Spot Mirror

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford is moving quickly to address driver demands for increased visibility with an industry-first innovation, the Blind Spot Mirror, pulling ahead the feature's introduction by one year to launch this fall as standard equipment on the 2009 Ford Edge.

"Ford is committed to delivering innovative features that provide a better driving experience for the customer," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. "The Blind Spot Mirror is the latest example of our strategy to move fast and to be industry leaders in enhancing the ownership experience."

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Toyota Earns 11 Awards in 2008 Dependability Study

Torrance, CA - Toyota and Lexus models have earned 11 segment awards out of a possible 19 in the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study, more than any other manufacturer for the third consecutive year.

The VDS is one of many vehicle surveys which continue to consistently rank Toyota and Lexus at the top of their respective studies.

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Nissan ECO Pedal system to be commercialized by 2009

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today unveiled the ECO Pedal - a world first technology - designed to assist drivers to become more fuel-efficient.

When the eco-pedal system is on, each time the driver steps on the accelarator, a counter push-back control mechanism is activated if the system detects excess pressure, helping to inform the driver that they could be using more fuel than required.

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Build Your Own Plug-In Hybrid Capable of Up to 225 MPG

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Robert Q. Riley Enterprises, a product design firm in Glendale, Ariz., announced today the release of construction plans for anyone who wants to build its XR3, a two-passenger, plug-in hybrid that can travel up to 225 miles per gallon.

The three-wheel sports car's modular design can be outfitted with different power trains to create a 125-mpg, diesel-only vehicle; a 100-mile-range, battery-only vehicle; or a hybrid for increased performance and fuel versatility. Since no computer controls are needed on the hybrid system, costs are reduced and the need for re-programming is eliminated.

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Franz von Holzhausen Joins Tesla Motors as Chief Designer

SAN CARLOS, Calif. -- Franz von Holzhausen, former Director of Design for Mazda North America, has joined Tesla Motors as Chief Designer. In addition to driving the design direction of Tesla Motors in the short term, Franz is charged with building a world class design competency at Tesla Motors.

Franz will report to Elon Musk, Chairman and Product Architect of Tesla Motors. "Tesla is about stunning design, combined with breakthrough technology and fantastic service. Those three in combination are what will make us a great company. Franz is joining Tesla with the mission to build the world's leading automotive design studio," said Elon.

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Market Penetration of Satellite Radio and Nav Systems Increases Dramatically

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- Growth in consumer demand for high-tech features supplied in new vehicles has led to a significant increase in market penetration for satellite radio and navigation systems according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study(SM) released today.

The study finds that 55 percent of new-vehicle owners report having satellite radio capability in their audio system, up considerably from 39 percent in 2007. Additionally, market penetration for navigation systems has also increased -- up to 25 percent in 2008 from 20 percent in 2007.

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August 6, 2008

Ford Flex earns top 5-star crash ratings

DEARBORN, Mich. -- The 2009 Ford Flex has earned five-star frontal- and side-impact crashworthiness ratings, the highest possible scores, in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests.

The results for Ford's newest full-size crossover are better than the Toyota Highlander's and include class-leading four-star rollover ratings for both the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions.

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Video: Taking a lap in the Cobalt SS

Join John Heinricy, an executive in GM's Performance Division, as he takes you for a ride in the new Chevy Cobalt SS!

Natural Gas: An Enticing Alternative

By Larry Burns, GM Vice President, Research & Development

Volatile oil prices have been dominating the news lately, underscoring growing unease about the automobile's heavy dependence on petroleum.

As these concerns reverberate from Main Street to Wall Street, General Motors is working toward new solutions that will answer the growing demand for personal transportation in an affordable and sustainable way.

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BorgWarner Honored for Dual-Clutch Technology on the Nissan GT-R

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- BorgWarner received a 2008 Global Innovation Award from Nissan in recognition of its innovative dual-clutch technology, used in the all-new 2008 Nissan GT-R.

Launched in December in Japan and last month in the United States, the eagerly anticipated sports car is the first GT-R engineered for sale in global markets, the world's first longitudinal transaxle dual-clutch transmission, and the first Japanese transmission to feature BorgWarner's award-winning DualTronic technology.

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Chery Hybrid Vehicles Debut at Beijing Olympics

VAN BUREN TWP., Mich. -- As part of the transportation arrangements for the Beijing Olympics, 50 hybrid vehicles co-developed with Ricardo are being provided by Chery Automobile Company Ltd. Known as the "Olympics Green Messengers," these vehicles are some of China's first hybrid vehicles and will go into full production in the months following the games.

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August 5, 2008

Jamie Lee Curtis gets a Honda Hydrogen vehicle

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced that its second FCX Clarity customer, Jamie Lee Curtis, took delivery of the vehicle on July 31, 2008. Curtis and husband Christopher Guest are the second of approximately 200 customers who will begin leasing the vehicle in the United States and Japan over the next three years.

"I really wasn't expecting it to be so luxurious," said Curtis. "It's luxurious, luxurious, luxurious! I love the interior layout, design and access to controls. It is user-friendly and very modern."

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Bush Rules on Fuel Economy Hit from 2 Sides

At the first public hearing on the rules Monday, critics accused the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of using false assumptions about gas prices and environmental impacts when it set the proposed fuel economy standards. For their part, auto industry officials insisted that the standards are so aggressive, they might be tough for some automakers to meet.

David Westcott, a Buick and Pontiac dealer from North Carolina who spoke on behalf of the National Automobile Dealers Association, noted that new vehicle sales have plummeted to a two-decade low as cash-strapped consumers are having trouble getting the credit needed to make a purchase. He warned that if adding new fuel-saving technologies increases the price of vehicles, it could keep many Americans from trading in their older, less efficient cars and trucks.

Toyota Unit Cuts Staff Amid Weak U.S. Sales

TOKYO -- A production unit of Toyota Motor Corp. said Tuesday it laid off about 800 contract workers in June and August to reduce production of vehicles bound for North America, as car sales in the U.S. continue to slump.

However, a spokesman at Toyota Motor Kyushu Inc. said it will rehire 500 contract staff in the autumn or afterward to prepare to increase output, indicating it expects the production adjustment to end in several months. Toyota last week cut its U.S. sales projection for this year to 2.44 million vehicles from its previous plan of 2.64 million.

Chrysler Announces New Head of Global Electric Motorcars

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC today named Bruce D. Coventry Chief Executive Officer of Global Electric Motor Cars LLC (GEM). He continues in his role at Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) serving as Non-Executive Chairman.

In addition to his responsibilities with GEMA, Coventry will continue to build on the innovation and engineering technology that are hallmark to the GEM vehicle. As well, he will focus on expanding market share in Chrysler's mission to deliver environmentally friendly products to our customers.

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States Hands-Free Law Boosts Bluetooth Sales

SAN FRANCISCO -- Since July 1 when the California and Washington hands-free driving legislation became effective, Parrot has seen a three-fold increase in sales of its hands-free car kits.

Parrot, the world's largest manufacturer of Bluetooth car kits attributes the increase to an aggressive advertising and public relations campaign it launched two months prior to the law taking effect.

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August 4, 2008

Honda's ASIMO Visits Children Suffering from Sichuan Earthquake

China -- Honda made an effort to lift the spirits of children suffering from the Sichuan Earthquake through a special visit by ASIMO, Honda's humanoid robot.

ASIMO visited a school in Deyang in the Sichuan province of China, approximately 100km away from the epicenter of the earthquake. Children attending the school, as well as children invited from other kindergartens, elementary schools, and junior high schools in the surrounding areas, were able to have a fun time with ASIMO.

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Porsche Extends Range of Mid-Engined Sports Cars

Stuttgart. Introducing two new models, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, are rounding off their range of dynamic mid-engined sports cars at the top.

The two new models, the Porsche Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2 and the Cayman S Sport, develop 303 bhp (223 kW) from 3.4 litres, eight horsepower more than the respective S models.

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American Le Mans in Elkhart Lake, USA: RS Spyder faces great new challenge

Stuttgart -- After the successful class-winning premiere of RS Spyder racing the new direct fuel injection engine at Mid-Ohio, the next great challenge is here: At the seventh round of the American Le Mans Series the Weissach-developed and built sports prototypes race on the legendary Road America track.

Porsche is eager to further increase its championship lead on one of America's oldest and most beautiful race circuits.

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August 3, 2008

Volvo high-mileage ambassador names favorite small towns

IRVINE, Calif. -- Irv Gordon -- who as the first person to drive two million miles in the same car and has taken more road trips than anybody -- has some advice for families preparing a summer vacation on the road: ditch the fancy resorts and theme parks and take a drive to a small town.

Gordon, a retired science teacher from Long Island, New York, clocked his historic two millionth mile in his shiny red 1966 Volvo P1800 in 2002 while driving down Times Square in New York City.

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Ford tunes cars to run on regular, vs. premium

DEARBORN, Mich. - With per-gallon prices hovering around $4, customers are sensitive to every penny spent at the pump, and Ford Motor Company is leveraging technologies to help consumers avoid an even further hit to their wallets.

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, including luxury models like the all-new 2009 Lincoln MKS, run - and run well - on regular unleaded gas, a true competitive advantage given today's skyrocketing fuel costs.

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Nissan offers buyouts to factory workers

SMYRNA, Tenn. - Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) is offering a Voluntary Transition Program (VTP) to its technicians and salaried employees at its assembly plants in Smyrna and Decherd, Tenn.

The plan offers employees an opportunity to receive a lump sum of $100,000 or $125,000, depending on tenure, plus medical and car purchase benefits.

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Ford revs up for Woodward Cruise

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company will be at the heart of the action when 1.5 million car and truck enthusiasts flock to the city of Ferndale, Mich. for the start of the 2008 Woodward Dream Cruise on Aug.16.

"It's a great place for us to be because it truly reflects the essence of Woodward -- car lovers coming together and cruising, just like they've done for decades," said Robert Parker, Ford car marketing manager. "The Dream Cruise originated in Ferndale 14 years ago, and the city has been the home to Mustang Alley for the past 10 years."

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Volvo C30 impresses in a dramatic WTCC debut

Seventh fastest in testing and tenth in qualifying before being pushed off the track by Rickard Rydell.

Volvo's new Green C30 race car took its debut in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) in the seventh race of the series at Brands Hatch this past weekend. Volvo's priority was to test the new ethanol driven race car against the best in the world. This was a debut which offered a taste for the future and also some drama.

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August 2, 2008

Massachusetts Legislature Keeps Right to Repair Legislation Moving Forward

BOSTON -- Massachusetts is proving to be a very receptive state for landmark legislation that would protect consumers' right to choose where they have their cars repaired.

The legislation (H4892) would require car manufacturers to provide independent repair shops equal access to the same diagnostic repair information and tools they provide for their dealer mechanics.

Continue reading "Massachusetts Legislature Keeps Right to Repair Legislation Moving Forward"

August 1, 2008

2009 Subaru Impreza WRX to Debut at X Games 14

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- The newly-announced 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX will make its public debut at X Games 14, to be held in Los Angeles, Calif. July 31 - August 3.

Boasting engine and handling upgrades, the 265 horsepower WRX will be on show at the Subaru display in the Sponsor's Village. A 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX will be awarded to the "Subaru Most Outstanding Athlete of the Games" recipient.

Continue reading "2009 Subaru Impreza WRX to Debut at X Games 14"

General Motors to Showcase Historic Motorama Vehicles

More than fifty years ago, General Motors' traveling Motorama showcased dramatic concept "Dream Cars" as interpretations of future automobile design.

From 1949 through 1960, expressive vehicles including the Cadillac Lemans and Firebird I traveled the United States as a statement of General Motors design leadership.

Continue reading "General Motors to Showcase Historic Motorama Vehicles"

July 31, 2008

Subaru Unleashes New 265 HP 2009 Impreza WRX

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- Performance leaps to a higher level in the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX thanks to a 265-horsepower turbocharged intercooled Boxer engine, retuned suspension and wider, lower-profile summer performance tires.

The Impreza WRX moves closer to its supercar stablemate, the WRX STI in spirit, performance and styling with a new familial grille, integrated front spoiler and body-side moldings and gunmetal gray alloy wheels.

Continue reading "Subaru Unleashes New 265 HP 2009 Impreza WRX"

July 30, 2008

Hyundai Teams Up With Rhys Millen Racing for SEMA

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. -- Hyundai Motor America announced today that it has teamed up with Rhys Millen Racing (RMR) to create the "Art of Speed" Genesis Coupe show car.

The Hyundai RMR "Art of Speed" Genesis Coupe 2.0t will be on display at the Hyundai booth at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in the Las Vegas Convention Center from Nov. 4 - Nov. 7, 2008.

Continue reading "Hyundai Teams Up With Rhys Millen Racing for SEMA"

Porsche to Build New Northeast Regional Facility

ATLANTA -- In a move to improve customer service by increasing operating efficiency across the board, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA) plans to open a Northeast Regional Support Center next year at the to-be-constructed Chrin Commerce Centre in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, less than 70 miles from both Philadelphia and New York City, one of Porsche's most vital sales regions.

Continue reading "Porsche to Build New Northeast Regional Facility"

Volkswagen's Clean Diesels Eligible for Federal Tax Credit

HERNDON, Va. -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced that buyers of the Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen are eligible for a $1,300 Federal Income Tax Credit.

The Internal Revenue Service has issued a certification letter affirming that the vehicles qualify for the Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle income tax credit.

Continue reading "Volkswagen's Clean Diesels Eligible for Federal Tax Credit"

G.M. Cuts Jobs as Part of a Production Curb

G.M. said Monday that it would cut production of 117,000 pickups and S.U.V.'s as part of a larger effort to trim its North American manufacturing capacity by 300,000 vehicles by next year. The company also said it would idle several other assembly plants for various periods to address the shrinking demand for pickups and SUVs.

Proposal for Fuel Economy Loan Adds Supporters

WASHINGTON -- Backers of a program that would lend up to $25 billion to automakers and auto parts suppliers said Monday they had garnered 71 U.S. House members to support their search for $3.75 billion in funding over the next couple of months. The program, known as the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentive Program, was meant to help automakers meet fuel economy standards of 35 miles per gallon by 2020.

Created but not funded by Congress last year, the program would provide low-cost loans to cash-strapped automakers and their suppliers for engineering fuel-efficient vehicles or converting old plants.

Fuel Economy Push Hits Snags

WASHINGTON -- A Bush administration proposal to boost fuel efficiency of automobiles to 31.5 miles per gallon by 2015 is raising hackles on two sides: from car makers, who say it is too tough, and from some Democrats, who say it isn't tough enough. At issue is how to implement a landmark law passed last year that requires the Department of Transportation to raise fuel-economy standards for cars and light trucks to a fleetwide average of 35 mpg by 2020.

The law gives the Department of Transportation authority to set interim standards. The department's proposal for 2015 is a 25% increase from the present and amounts to the fastest leap in the 33-year history of the federal automobile-fuel-economy program.

OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" to Those Affected by Southern California Earthquake

DETROIT - OnStar reminds its subscribers in Southern California that a simple push of the OnStar button in GM vehicles will put them in contact with the help they need. OnStar's Crisis Assist capabilities include specially trained Crisis Advisors who will help with:

Continue reading "OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" to Those Affected by Southern California Earthquake"

July 29, 2008

Microsoft Extends Award-Winning Automotive Platform

REDMOND, Wash. -- Microsoft Corp. today announced it will expand its automotive offering beyond software to include services. Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit (ABU) continues to enhance in-vehicle experiences by providing automakers with new and innovative ways to meet increasing consumer expectations.

As a key part of these innovations, Microsoft announces the immediate availability of Microsoft Live Search for Devices, the first of many new services for its automotive platforms. Live Search for Devices enables partners to develop applications, including local search services, for in-vehicle infotainment.

Continue reading "Microsoft Extends Award-Winning Automotive Platform"

Right to Repair Act Protects Car Owners, Repair Shops in Rural Communities

BETHESDA, Md. -- The need for the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (HR 2694) is even more critical to car owners in rural communities and their trusted local repair shops, according to Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

Because vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated with virtually every system either monitored or controlled by computers, servicing these vehicle systems to keep them in safe and efficient working condition requires ready access to complete and accurate repair information from the car companies.

Continue reading "Right to Repair Act Protects Car Owners, Repair Shops in Rural Communities"

July 28, 2008

Honda Interactive Crash Test Demo Invites Viewers to "See What We See"

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. has launched a unique online video experience of a vehicle crash test that invites viewers to witness the crash impact and explore it from different camera angles and at various motion speeds.

The crash test demo is part of Honda's "Power of Dreams" corporate ad campaign (http://www.dreams.honda.com) which invites consumers to view the world from inside Honda's vantage point.

Continue reading "Honda Interactive Crash Test Demo Invites Viewers to "See What We See""

Porsche 2009 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S

ATLANTA -- Completing a triple update of the 2009 911 model lineup, Porsche is introducing the new 911 Targa, executing this generational change in record time. Two new Targa models will join their brethren, the new generation Carrera coupes and cabriolets that have been introduced in the past two months.

The new 911 models will be available at Porsche dealerships in the U.S. starting in September of this year.

Continue reading "Porsche 2009 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S"

Effective Use of Your Vehicle's Antilock Brakes Delivers Maximum Safety

BROADVIEW, Ill. -- In 1978, it was an innovation. Today, within a short span of 30 years, the electronically controlled antilock braking system, or ABS, has become a standard safety item on most modern vehicles.

"These safety benefits are most apparent when ABS is used effectively to make an emergency stop," says Rob Backode, Group Product Manager for Bosch Braking Systems.

Continue reading "Effective Use of Your Vehicle's Antilock Brakes Delivers Maximum Safety"

Saving Lives by Banning Deadly Tires

WASHINGTON CROSSING, Pa. -- The following is by Bob Moore of the Moore Foundation:

Six years ago -- July 31st to be exact -- I received the phone call every parent dreads. My ex-wife was on the line, "A policeman came to the house tonight, and he told me Andy was in a car accident in Canada." Her voice cracking, she added, "He died!"

Continue reading "Saving Lives by Banning Deadly Tires"

July 27, 2008

Ford repositions Mercury brand

Ford Motor Co. will reposition Mercury as an entry-level premium brand that will support Lincoln, according to senior executives.

Lincoln will no longer get any smaller vehicles, as had been planned, while Mercury will only get smaller cars and crossovers, said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's global product chief.

"Mercury and Lincoln will complement each other," Kuzak told The Detroit News Thursday. "Lincoln will start with midsized sedans and move up from there."

Until recently, Ford had planned to eliminate the Mercury brand and give Lincoln a wider range of products. Dealers were skeptical, pointing out that Mercury brings a different demographic into the showroom than any other Ford brand -- a fact Kuzak acknowledged.

"Mercury brings a younger, more female customer than the Ford brand," Kuzak said during a briefing with reporters earlier Thursday. "We're focusing (Mercury) very much on small, fuel-efficient products."

July 26, 2008

Honda FCX Fuel Cell Lease Program Begins With First Customer Delivery

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced that Ron Yerxa and Annette Ballester took delivery of their hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCX Clarity on Friday, July 25, 2008 at Honda of Santa Monica, one of three dealerships in Southern California that are part of the first fuel cell vehicle dealership network.

Yerxa and Ballester are the world's first FCX Clarity customers and the first of approximately 200 customers who will lease the vehicle in the United States and Japan over the next three years, with the vast majority of vehicles being leased in Southern California.

Continue reading "Honda FCX Fuel Cell Lease Program Begins With First Customer Delivery"

Kyle Busch Gets His Face on M&M'S

HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. -- Mars Direct Inc., a division of Mars Snackfood US, announced today a new blend of MY M&M'S Chocolate Candies featuring Kyle Busch, NASCAR'S hottest young driver for the No. 18 M&M'S Racing team of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

The new MY M&M'S Kyle Busch Blend features yellow, brown, red and white M&M'SKyle Busch Gets His Face on M&M'S, the signature colors of M&M'S Racing. The chocolate candies are printed with Kyle's face, autograph, car number (#18) and an encouraging message ("Go Kyle!").

Continue reading "Kyle Busch Gets His Face on M&M'S"

Office Depot and Old Spice to Sponsor Stewart

INDIANAPOLIS -- Office Depot and Old Spice will serve as co-primary sponsors of Tony Stewart's No. 14 Chevrolet Impala SS NASCAR Sprint Cup Series entry beginning in 2009.

Officials from the two companies, as well as from Stewart-Haas Racing, made the announcement today near Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Continue reading "Office Depot and Old Spice to Sponsor Stewart"

Office Depot Inks Deal to Be Official NASCAR Partner

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. -- Office Depot, a leading global provider of office products and services, announced today that it has renewed its partnership with NASCAR and will continue "Taking Care of Business" for NASCAR in an exclusive relationship as the sport's "Official Office Products Partner."

The announcement was made today as part of a press conference near Indianapolis Motor Speedway where Office Depot and Old Spice were introduced as the new co-primary sponsors of Tony Stewart's No. 14 Chevrolet Impala SS NASCAR Sprint Cup Series entry beginning in 2009.

Continue reading "Office Depot Inks Deal to Be Official NASCAR Partner"

July 25, 2008

GM Celebrates J.D. Power Recognition at Fairfax Assembly Plant

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - The General Motors Fairfax Assembly team today celebrated their successful performance in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Initial Quality StudyTM (IQS). The facility manufactures the Chevrolet Malibu and the Saturn Aura midsize sedans.

The all-new, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu earned a segment award in the very competitive Midsize Car Segment by achieving exceptionally high levels of quality. Additionally, the Fairfax Assembly facility was awarded the Bronze Plant Quality Award, for the least manufacturing defects and malfunctions, ranking the facility third out of 67 assembly facilities located in North and South America.

Continue reading "GM Celebrates J.D. Power Recognition at Fairfax Assembly Plant"

Aflac Racing Gears Up for 2009 NASCAR Season

COLUMBUS, Ga. -- Aflac Incorporated unveiled its sleek new look for Roush Fenway Racing's No. 99 Aflac Ford Fusion driven by NASCAR veteran Carl Edwards.

Beginning next season, Edwards, who has a multi-year primary sponsorship with Aflac, will race in one of the most formidable-looking cars in 2009. With the main color jet black and the secondary colors shades of green and blue, this ride will be hard to miss -- even at speeds of 200 mph.

Continue reading "Aflac Racing Gears Up for 2009 NASCAR Season"

Tata on Track to Sell $2,500 Car This Fall

Tata Motors Ltd., maker of the $2,500 Nano car, will introduce the vehicle in the October-December quarter.

Tata Motors' Nano is aimed at first-time car buyers in India, where more than 45 million people use motorcycles. The automaker, which purchased the Jaguar and Land Rover luxury brands from Ford Motor Co. for $2.4 billion, wants to challenge Suzuki Motor Corp.'s dominance of the Indian car market.

OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" Emergency Services to Those Affected by Dolly

DETROIT - OnStar reminds its subscribers in Southeast Texas that a simple push of the OnStar button in GM vehicles will put them in contact with specially-trained Crisis Advisors.

OnStar's Crisis Assist capabilities include specially trained Crisis Advisors, who will help with:

Continue reading "OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" Emergency Services to Those Affected by Dolly"

John Middlebrook to Pace Allstate 400 at the Brickyard in Corvette Z06

INDIANAPOLIS - In 1997, when John Middlebrook served as Chevrolet's general manager, he said: "Corvette is now, and will continue to remain Chevrolet's flagship.

It is our technological and image showcase. Even more importantly, Corvette stands as the most singularly dramatic example of what we mean by 'Genuine Chevrolet.' Corvette is much more than just a car. It's a love affair. Words alone fail to convey the passion it inspires."

Continue reading "John Middlebrook to Pace Allstate 400 at the Brickyard in Corvette Z06"

U.S. Postal Service Receives Hydrogen Powered Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle from General Motors

Irvine, Calif. -- General Motors Corp. and the U.S. Postal Service are joining forces again to deliver mail using hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles.

The two organizations announced today that the U.S. Postal Service becomes the latest entry into Chevrolet's Project Driveway, the world's first and largest market test of fuel cell vehicles to date.

Continue reading "U.S. Postal Service Receives Hydrogen Powered Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle from General Motors"

July 24, 2008

GM's "Other" Plug-In: The Saturn Vue

by Larry Nitz, Executive Director, GM Hybrid Powertrain Engineering

With all of the excitement created by Bob Lutz's first drive of the Chevrolet Volt test mule vehicle recently, some may have forgotten GM has another plug-in vehicle that is approved for production and progressing through early program development stages.

As I revealed to the audience today at the Plug-in 2008 Conference in San Jose, CA, we currently are testing 11 Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEV) at the GM proving grounds in Michigan and Arizona. In fact, we brought one with us to San Jose.

Continue reading "GM's "Other" Plug-In: The Saturn Vue"

Ford Accelerates Transformation Plan With Small Car Offensive, Manufacturing Realignment

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company today announced a significant acceleration of its transformation plan with the addition of several new fuel-efficient small vehicles in North America and a realignment of its North American manufacturing.

The actions represent a considerable shift in Ford's North American product plans and investments toward smaller vehicles and fuel-efficient powertrains in both the near- and mid-term in line with rapid changes in customer buying preferences.

Continue reading "Ford Accelerates Transformation Plan With Small Car Offensive, Manufacturing Realignment"

Child Safety Seats: Choosing and Using Them Right

WASHINGTON -- Did you know that a seat belt alone is not enough to protect your young child in a car crash?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that child safety seats reduce the risk of being killed in a car crash by 71 percent for an infant and by 54 percent for a toddler. This is why all 50 states have laws that require the use of child safety restraints.

Continue reading "Child Safety Seats: Choosing and Using Them Right"

XM and SIRIUS Confirm Discussions to Settle FCC Enforcement Matters

WASHINGTON and NEW YORK -- XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. and SIRIUS Satellite Radio today confirmed that the companies are in discussions with the Enforcement Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission to settle outstanding enforcement matters.

As previously disclosed by the companies, in 2006, the FCC commenced investigations regarding the compliance of certain radios that include FM transmitters with the Commission's rules, and the compliance of certain terrestrial repeaters with the special temporary authority granted by the Commission.

Continue reading "XM and SIRIUS Confirm Discussions to Settle FCC Enforcement Matters"

July 23, 2008

Renault-Nissan & Tennessee Form Zero-Emission Vehicle Partnership

FRANKLIN, Tenn. -- The Renault-Nissan Alliance today announced that Nissan and the State of Tennessee are forming a partnership to promote zero-emission vehicles, including electric vehicles, in Middle Tennessee with participation from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and other partners.

In May, Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Renault, SA, committed the Alliance to be a global leader in zero-emission vehicles (ZEV).

Continue reading "Renault-Nissan & Tennessee Form Zero-Emission Vehicle Partnership"

USPS Announces 'Green' Fleet Testing Strategy During launch of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Delivery

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will outline its strategy for converting to an environmentally friendly, non-petroleum based alternative fuel vehicle fleet to replace 195,000 delivery vehicles and will announce an alternative fuel vehicle test.

Continue reading "USPS Announces 'Green' Fleet Testing Strategy During launch of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Delivery"

July 22, 2008

The Rebirth of Camaro

By Bob Lutz, GM Vice Chairman

Well, it's finally here.

It feels like we've been talking about the Camaro for a long time, but it's just been a couple of years since the concept car's unveiling at the Detroit auto show, and now the production car is officially in the public eye, as of yesterday, July 21, 2008.

As promised, this is a Camaro for the new millennium, with subtle design nods to its rich heritage, and, I have to say, this is the best Camaro ever, in my opinion.

Continue reading "The Rebirth of Camaro"

Chevrolet Unveils The 2010 Camaro

DETROIT -Chevrolet introduced the production 2010 Camaro today. It is a heritage-inspired sports car for the 21 st century, combining great looks and performance; advanced technology and surprising efficiency - including 26-mpg estimated highway fuel economy. Sales begin in the first quarter of 2009.

Built on GM's new, global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Camaro is offered in V-6-powered LS and LT models, as well as the V-8-powered SS. All models and powertrain combinations include fuel-saving six-speed transmissions.

Continue reading " Chevrolet Unveils The 2010 Camaro"

Ford honors the 100th anniversary of Model T

RICHMOND, Ind., July 22, 2008 - A century after the Model T put the world on wheels, Ford continues building on its tradition with industry-leading, high-volume technologies including SYNC and EcoBoost engines, a new fuel-efficient powertrain lineup, a new small car for the world as well as America's most head-turning crossover and most-capable pickup.

"Henry Ford and his Model T helped reshape the landscape of America a century ago by making the automobile accessible to the average person," said Bill Ford, Ford Motor Company executive chairman.

Continue reading "Ford honors the 100th anniversary of Model T"

General Motors Partners to Commercialize Plug-in Vehicles

San Jose, CALIF - General Motors announced today that it will collaborate with the nonprofit Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) - more than 30 of the top electric utilities in the United States and Canada -- to accelerate the introduction of plug-in electric vehicles.

General Motors will work with EPRI and the utility companies on everything from codes and standards to grid capability to ensure that when the Volt goes to market, the infrastructure is ready - and customers can realize the full potential of these revolutionary vehicles as soon as they leave the showroom.

Continue reading "General Motors Partners to Commercialize Plug-in Vehicles"

Ford to Convert Three Plants From Trucks to Cars

Ford Motor Co. plans to transform three North American truck plants to build small cars developed originally for European markets, according to people briefed on the company's plans.

The move, expected to be announced as part of Ford's second-quarter earnings report on Thursday, is an attempt to ratchet up production of passenger cars in North America in response to this year's dramatic rise in gasoline prices.

Once its plants have been retooled, the auto maker would be able to use a common base to build its next generation of passenger cars, many of which originated in Europe. The so-called global platform is now used to produce the European Focus subcompact, the Ford Kuga crossover and the Ford C-Max small wagon among other vehicles off the same production line.

GM Hosts Disabilities Matters Conference

DETROIT, MI - Members of GM's Fleet and Commercial organization will host a special conference designed to help companies collaborate on best practices for relating to people with disabilities.

This is an important topic, according to John Gaydash, director, GM Fleet & Commercial Operations, and something that is vital for companies like GM.

Continue reading "GM Hosts Disabilities Matters Conference"

Saleen SpeedLab Introduces All New 'SuperShaker'

TROY, Mich. -- Saleen's Aftermarket Division, SpeedLab, announced today the introduction of a new technology for air induction systems called the SuperShaker.

The patent pending SuperShaker embodies the classic appeal of shaker hood styling while delivering exhilarating performance via modern Supercharger technology.

Continue reading "Saleen SpeedLab Introduces All New 'SuperShaker'"

Volvo Rocks Out On The Road

IRVINE, Calif. -- Despite high gas prices, many families will still embark on the classic American road trip this summer. Nothing passes the time during a long car trip like cranking up the stereo with timeless tunes.

To help you and your family or friends endure hours in the car, Volvo has assembled a list of the all-time greatest summer road trip songs. These oldies are sure to satisfy the adult crowd and introduce younger passengers to a time when GPS, backseat DVD players and satellite radio didn't exist.

Continue reading "Volvo Rocks Out On The Road"

Honda Cuts Odyssey, Pilot Output; Boosts Civic

Even Honda Motor Co. is feeling the pain of consumers' stampede from light trucks to cars. The Japanese automaker said today that it will reduce production of the Honda Odyssey minivan and Honda Pilot crossover by a combined 10,000 units this year at its Lincoln, Ala., assembly plant.

In the first half of 2008, Honda built 158,316 Odysseys and Pilots in Lincoln, down 2.4 percent from the same period of 2007. "Honda is not immune to the shift in the market," said Honda spokesman David Iida. "We don't want inventories to get too high."

Do Rising Gas Prices Have You Watching Every Mile?

RICHMOND, Va. -- With the national gas prices averaging more than four dollars a gallon, CarMax, Inc. (NYSE:KMX) , the nation's largest retailer of used cars, has advice on how to get more bang for your buck when driving your vehicle is taking a toll on your wallet.

"Most fuel is used to accelerate a car from a stop to cruising speed," said ASE Certified Master Technicians Todd Gartner. "Try to avoid stops wherever possible and accelerate as slowly as traffic allows."

Continue reading "Do Rising Gas Prices Have You Watching Every Mile?"

July 21, 2008

GM Webcast to unveil 2010 Camaro

Today, Monday July 21, 2008 at 4 pm EDT Chevrolet will unveil the production version of the 2010 Camaro in a live webcast hosted by Ed Peper of Chevrolet and Ed Welburn of GM Design.

To watch the live Camaro reveal go to http://camaro.gmnext.com and click on the "Camaro webcast" link.

XM Radio Exceeds 9.6 Million Subscribers

WASHINGTON -- XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. today announced preliminary results for the second quarter of 2008. XM added 322,000 new net subscribers in the second quarter of 2008 for a total of 9,653,000 subscribers, a 17 percent increase in subscribers since the end of the second quarter of 2007.

Total gross additions for the quarter were 1,081,000, including a record 857,000 OEM gross additions, the fifth consecutive quarter of record OEM gross additions, and 224,000 retail gross additions.

Continue reading "XM Radio Exceeds 9.6 Million Subscribers"

July 20, 2008

Porsche Mobil1 Supercup renews Formula 1 contract until 2011

Stuttgart -- The successful partnership between the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup and the FIA Formula 1 World Championship will carry on: The world's fastest one-make cup will continue to run as support race to the most important international motorsport racing series.

The contract renewal between Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG and Allsport Management SA (Switzerland) will be signed on the occasion of the German Grand Prix in Hockenheim.

Continue reading "Porsche Mobil1 Supercup renews Formula 1 contract until 2011"

American Le Mans in Mid-Ohio: RS Spyder wins with new direct injection race engine

Stuttgart. Successful race premiere for the new direct injection race engine from Porsche: Timo Bernhard (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France) won the LMP2 class at the sixth round of the American Le Mans Series in Lexington/Ohio with the engine that was run for the first time in the RS Spyder. With this, they further increased their lead in the championship.

For the reigning champions this marked the fourth victory so far this season, and the third in a row on the demanding Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Continue reading "American Le Mans in Mid-Ohio: RS Spyder wins with new direct injection race engine"

Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global climate change, emissions reduction, and energy sustainability through a comprehensive approach that involves further improvements to gasoline engine fuel efficiency; the development of real-world alternatives to gasoline, including natural gas and the hydrogen-powered fuel cell car; and technology for refueling alternative fuel vehicles.

Continue reading "Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility"

Volvo enters the World Touring Car Championship race

Volvo Car Corporation has decided to enter its new ethanol powered Volvo C30 racer in the WTCC (World Touring Car Championship) at Brands Hatch on the 26 - 27:th of July.

The car, which is in its first year on track, races in the Swedish Touring Car Championship (STCC) as the only ethanol E85 powered car in that series. In STCC, the car has so far secured three out of seven pole positions and has lead close to half of all laps driven.

Continue reading "Volvo enters the World Touring Car Championship race"

July 19, 2008

Volvo aims for zero accidents

At the Volvo Car Corporation, the vision is to design cars that should not crash. In the shorter perspective the aim is that by 2020 no-one should be killed or injured in a Volvo.

"We don't accept that people lose their lives in airplane accidents, so why should we regard car accidents as inevitable?" says Jan Ivarsson, head of Safety Strategy at the Volvo Car Corporation.

Continue reading "Volvo aims for zero accidents"

Video: Chrysler Green Initiatives

This months Chrysler Green Scene features GEMA and the Michigan prairie initiative.

Porsche at the German Grand Prix: Jaap van Lagen and Chris Mamerow ahead by narrow margin

Stuttgart -- The qualifying for the eighth round of the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup promises an exciting race.

At the home round of the world's fastest international makes cup the quickest eight drivers were separated by four-tenths of a second. Jaap van Lagen (Netherlands, Damac Kadach Racing Team) set pole position on the 4.57 kilometre Grand Prix track of the Hockenheimring in 1:42.897 minutes.

Continue reading "Porsche at the German Grand Prix: Jaap van Lagen and Chris Mamerow ahead by narrow margin"

Transsyberia Rally 2008: Porsche teams ready for the first stage in Mongolia

Stuttgart -- The 16 remaining Porsche teams are ready for the second part of the Transsybe-ria Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson.

After the relatively short special stages in Russia, drivers now face marathon legs of up to 407 special stage kilometres through the rugged mountainous landscape of Mongolia.

Continue reading "Transsyberia Rally 2008: Porsche teams ready for the first stage in Mongolia"

American Le Mans Series in Mid-Ohio: RS Spyder takes up race from second row

Stuttgart -- Timo Bernhard (Germany) takes off into the sixth round of this year's American Le Mans Series on the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course from the second row of the grid on Saturday with his Porsche RS Spyder.

In a close qualifying battle on the traditional 3.620 kilometre circuit in Lexington/Ohio, the overall winner of the last two years secured the third quickest time in mid-summer temperatures of over 30 degrees Celsius.

Continue reading "American Le Mans Series in Mid-Ohio: RS Spyder takes up race from second row"

Transsyberia Rally 2008, Leg 8: Time penalty for Schwarz, Kern and Millen

Stuttgart. A setback for Porsche Team Germany 1, Germany 3 and USA in the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson: The organisers imposed a 30-minute time penalty on Armin Schwarz and Andi Schulz as well as Lars Kern and Daniel van Kan.

One day later American Ryan Millen and Colin Godby also received this penalty. At the fifth special stage near Novosibirsk they were not in their start positions at the scheduled time, but took up the stage within the allowed timeframe.

Continue reading "Transsyberia Rally 2008, Leg 8: Time penalty for Schwarz, Kern and Millen"

July 18, 2008

Ford EcoDriving Tips Help Lower Fuel Costs

DEARBORN, Mich. -- With elevated gas prices and the summer travel season in full swing, Americans are looking for ways to save at the pump. Ford has some quick tips for all consumers, suggesting changes to their driving behavior.

Ford calls it EcoDriving - ECOnomical because it saves money and ECOlogical because it is better for the environment. Following are simple tips from Ford that any driver can use:

Continue reading "Ford EcoDriving Tips Help Lower Fuel Costs"

Toyota Launches Research Effort On Corporate Energy Efficiency

Washington, DC -- The Pew Center on Global Climate Change and Toyota are pleased to announce the launch of a new research project to document and communicate best practices in corporate energy efficiency strategies.

The project's goal is to educate corporations on the most effective methods to reduce energy use and related greenhouse gas emissions, while addressing the market and internal barriers many corporations face in implementing these strategies.

Continue reading "Toyota Launches Research Effort On Corporate Energy Efficiency"

Nürburgring return: Volkswagen with positive interim tally

Wolfsburg -- One year after its comeback as a Formula 3 engine supplier at the same venue, Volkswagen returns to the Nürburgring: an occasion that warrants a look at the first interim tally, which - with one victory and eight further podium positions clinched by the Volkswagen drivers in the Formula 3 Euro Series - shows a very positive result.

The objective set for races eleven and twelve of the world's most powerful junior series is clear: defence of the double lead of the standings held by Edoardo Mortara and the Signature team.

Continue reading "Nürburgring return: Volkswagen with positive interim tally"

General Motors Forging Ahead

By Bob Lutz, GM Vice Chairman

As you've no doubt heard me say before, we've made a lot of progress in the past few years at General Motors. And we've delivered on what we said we would do. We've tackled the legacy costs. We've improved our quality. We went from having, at least in North America, some mediocre products to having acclaimed products that are selling extremely well, especially on the passenger car side. In June, for example, in a slow market, our retail car sales were up 8 percent.

We continue to reinvigorate our product portfolio. We're pursuing advanced propulsion technologies that will greatly reduce dependence on petroleum. And, we're reacting to the swiftly changing market conditions here in the U.S.

Continue reading "General Motors Forging Ahead"

Porsche will again offer 100 training positions

Stuttgart -- This Friday afternoon, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG will invite visitors to its training workshop in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen to learn about attractive training opportunities at Porsche.

Secondary school pupils and those studying for university entrance exams can visit the training workshop in Stammheimer Strasse from 1 pm and learn about the 15 different careers in which Porsche currently offers training.

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Lamborghini Delivers First Gallardo LP560-4 to Benny Caiola

NEW YORK -- Automobili Lamborghini America, LLC delivered the first Gallardo LP560-4 to Benny Caiola, Jr., noted Italian car enthusiast and collector, this week at his home outside of New York City. The all-new 560 horsepower LP560-4, which replaces the previous Gallardo model, features a powerful new engine, permanent four-wheel drive system and an 18 percent reduction in fuel consumption and C02 emissions.

Mr. Caiola secured the right to the first LP560-4 through a generous bid at the East Side House Settlement charity auction during the 2008 New York International Auto Show.

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Subaru Forester Named to 'Ten Toughest Cars on the Road' List

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- The Subaru Forester has been named to Forbes.com 'Ten Toughest Cars on the Road' list. The all-new Forester continues to garner awards from leading publications and in the month of June posted a 41% increase in sales over the same month the previous year.

To make the list, the Forester had to meet several measures, such as the most recent National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration and Insurance Institute of Highway Safety front and side crash-test ratings, Consumer Reports' 2007 Overall Road Test Scores, Strategic Vision's 2007 New Vehicle Experience and Vincentric's estimated five-year repair costs.

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Transsyberia Rally 2008, Leg 7: Porsche teams just before border crossing

Stuttgart -- The Porsche teams have successfully completed all the Russian special stages of the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson. The first nine places of the overall classification at the half-way point of the rally are occupied by Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia vehicles.

The seventh leg of almost 900 kilometres led the competitors from the Siberian capital of Novosibirsk to the first tented camp near Kosh Agash in the Altay mountains.

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Transsyberia Rally 2008, Leg 6: Armin Schwarz nets third stage win

Stuttgart -- Armin Schwarz and Andi Schulz of Team Germany 1 are picking up momentum. After they had won the first and the fifth leg of the Transsyberia Rally powered by Sony Ericsson, they went on to also conquer the first place at today's sixth special stage, which was run close to the Siberian capital of Novosibirsk.

In their 385hp Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia, Schwarz and Schulz edged Christian Lavieille and Francois Borsotto by 4.14 minutes.

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July 17, 2008

Car Buyers Downsize, but Spend Big on Options

DETROIT -- Consumers used to buy small cars for a simple reason: they were cheap. A decade ago, many budget-minded shoppers turned down even options like air-conditioning, power windows and compact disc players to keep the price low. Now people of all income levels are buying small cars to pinch pennies at the gas pump, but they are not scrimping on creature comforts.

Instead, they are spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on options, like heated leather seats and high-end entertainment systems, usually found in luxury cars. Small-car buyers often pay $600 for a sunroof, $500 for satellite radio or $400 for a hands-free phone system. Some even spend $300 for colorful interior lights.

Ford Flex delivers surprising aerodynamic edge

DEARBORN, Mich. -- There's no doubt the 2009 Ford Flex's unique profile turns heads on the road, but can a boxy crossover vehicle really deliver the superb aerodynamics needed for maximum fuel economy?

In the case of the Flex, the answer is an unqualified yes.

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Model T birthplace open to visitors during centennial

DEARBORN, Mich. -- While much has been written about Ford Motor Company's famed Rouge and Highland Park plants, the actual birthplace of the Model T is often overlooked.

Yet the three-story brick building still stands on the quiet corner of Piquette and Beaubien streets, in Detroit's New Center neighborhood, looking almost exactly like it did when the first Model T was built there in 1908.

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Ford debuts smart intersection technology

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company researchers today unveiled one of the first privately funded "smart intersections" in North America, a key step toward leveraging GPS technology and wireless infrastructure-to-vehicle communications to reduce traffic accidents and ease congestion.

The smart intersection, established near Ford's Research & Innovation Center in Dearborn, communicates with specially equipped test vehicles to warn drivers of potentially dangerous traffic situations, such as when a vehicle is about to run through a red light.

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Ford racing director living the dream

DEARBORN, Mich. - Dreams can come true. Brian Wolfe, the new Director of Ford Racing Technology, is living proof.

Growing up in Michigan, Wolfe was regaled with stories from his father about his hero - Henry Ford - and Ford Motor Company. He also was bitten early by the need for speed.

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July 16, 2008

Report: Toyota to Cut 2008 Global Sales Target

TOKYO -- Toyota Motor, in a close race with General Motors for the title of the world's top automaker, will lower its global sales target as U.S. demand slumps, a newspaper said today.

The Japanese auto giant plans to forecast global sales of 9.5 million vehicles this year, down from a previous estimate of 9.85 million, the Yomiuri Shimbun said in its evening edition, quoting unnamed company sources. The downward revision was mainly due to a slump in sales of large vehicles in the United States amid soaring fuel prices, while sales were also down in Europe and Japan, the top-selling Japanese daily said.

July 15, 2008

Volkswagen to build $1 Billion Auto Plant in Chattanooga

HERNDON, Va. -- Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. announced today that it will build a U.S. automotive production facility in Chattanooga, Tenn., where it will produce a car designed specifically for the North American consumer and invest $1 billion in the economy.

The announcement is an important element of the company's overall U.S. strategy of connecting with its customers, increasing its competitiveness and tripling its U.S. customer base in the next decade.

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Zipcar Helps iPhone Users Hit the Road

BOSTON -- Zipcar, the world's leading provider of cars on demand by the hour or day, today announced the availability of a Zipcar widget on the new WHERE application for the iPhone and iPod Touch. WHERE, the award-winning location based application enables iPhone users to quickly and easily locate the nearest Zipcar.

By downloading the WHERE application and activating the Zipcar widget, consumers can conveniently find the nearest Zipcar locations via their iPhone and make a reservation. Additionally, consumers can now easily facilitate carpooling with friends by easily sharing car location information via the iPhone in real-time.

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GM CEO to Announce Company Actions to Align Business

Detroit, Mich. -- General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner will hold a news conference on Tuesday, July 15 to discuss actions the company is taking to align the business to current market conditions.

Wagoner is expected to announce cuts in jobs and truck production.

Transsyberia Rally 2008, Leg 4: Kvashnin wins special stage three

Stuttgart -- Competitors of the 2008 Transsyberia Rally powered by Sony Ericsson had a lengthy wait for the results of the third special stage between Kazan and Yekaterinburg.

Only at the end of the fourth leg in West Siberia's Tyumen did Sergey Kvashnin and Alexey Pavlovskiy of Team Russia 2 learn that they were the fastest in their Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia on the 10 kilometre special stage, the shortest of the whole rally.

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Hypermilers refute safety concern

CHICAGO -- Anticipating the present fuel crisis and troubled by the political and environmental consequences of the US' huge consumption of oil, a group formed three years ago to find ways to increase the fuel efficiency of existing vehicles in the US.

The founder, Wayne Gerdes, coined the term "hypermiling": exceeding the EPA's MPG standards. He established CleanMPG.com as a forum to discuss and improve fuel conservation methods, and to educate others about these methods.

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Paul Miller Audi To Host Customers and Race Car Drivers

HERNDON, Va. -- Audi of America, Inc. announced today a motorsports gathering in partnership with Paul Miller Audi in Parsippany, NJ on Tuesday evening, July 15, 2008.

Local customers and prospects will be hosted to welcome world-renowned race car drivers Marco Werner and Lucas Luhr.

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July 14, 2008

Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package

Center Line, Mich. -- Mopar is bringing the iconic Dodge Challenger muscle car to National Hot Road Association (NHRA) drag-racing competition.

Mopar revealed two Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package Cars at the 29th Annual Mopar Mile-High Nationals today before thrilled fans at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, Colo. Mopar Mile-High Nationals is the longest-running NHRA sponsorship.

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GM, National Governors Association Team Up on E85

PHILADELPHIA - The National Governors Association and General Motors Corp. will work together to expand the nationwide infrastructure and distribution network for E85 ethanol aimed at being ready when next-generation ethanol made from a variety of non-grain sources is available.

The announcement was made Sunday by Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty during the opening plenary session of the NGA Centennial Meeting in Philadelphia.

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Porsche at the German Grand Prix: A world champion races the 911 GT3

Stuttgart -- This year's Porsche Mobil1 Supercup is hard to beat when it comes to suspense. From seven rounds, six different pilots have climbed to the top of the podium at the world's fastest international brand trophy series.

At the eighth round on the Hockenheimring, guest driver Neel Jani is keen to give the front-runners a run for their money. The Swissman is the reigning champion of the A1 Grand Prix, the world motorsport championship where national teams compete in Formula race cars.

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July 13, 2008

BMW to Test Electric-Powered Minis

BMW has said it will outfit ``several hundred'' Mini cars with electric motors to test the technology for future models.

``This step will allow the BMW Group to gain an initial knowledge of how mobility can be achieved efficiently using purely electrically powered vehicles,'' Norbert Reithofer, chief executive officer of the Munich-based carmaker, said today in a statement.

BMW has put more effort into researching hydrogen-combustion engines, rather than electric motors because of electric-powered vehicles' limited range and performance. The test is scheduled to last 12 to 18 months and comes as other carmakers are readying vehicles for production.

Transsyberia Rally Leg 3: Porsche teams reach Asia

Stuttgart -- Three of the fourteen legs of the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Erics-son are over. Crossing the Urals the rally left Europe and reached Asia.

The shortest stage of the entire rally, ten kilometres, was part of the third leg between Kazan and Yekaterinburg. The stage led over fast gravel with huge puddles, bumps and several crests.

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Porsche Cup Deutschland: Jan Seyffarth dominates turbulent race

Stuttgart -- One day after his 22nd birthday, Jan Seyffarth (Germany) has secured a clear victory at the sixth round of the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland in Zandvoort (Netherlands).

It was the first victory for the former UPS-Porsche Junior in Europe's fastest brand trophy series - and it was the result of extraordinary driving skills in an extremely turbulent race.

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American Le Mans in Lime Rock Park: Porsche continues on title course

Stuttgart -- Porsche continues on its title course in the American Le Mans Series. Securing second in Lime Rock Park/Connecticut, Timo Bernhard (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France) defended their clear points' lead in the 476 hp Porsche RS Spyder.

With an outstanding double victory in the GT2 class, the new four-litre engine of the Porsche 911 GT3 RSR celebrated a successful racing premiere.

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Transsyberia Rally 2008, Leg 2: Top time for Porsche duo

Stuttgart -- Armin Schwarz and Andi Schulz of Team Germany 1 achieved the top time at leg two of the 2008 Transsyberia Rally powered by Sony Ericsson.

In their 385 hp Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia they mastered the 58 kilometre special stage five seconds faster than Cayenne pilots Denis Levyatov and Sergey Talantsev from Team Porsche Russia 1.

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Porsche Cup Deutschland, Zandvoort: Mamerow on the front row

Stuttgart -- The qualifying for the sixth round of the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland in Zandvoort (Netherlands) was a lottery that was decided after just ten minutes: With two red flags and rain setting in, the times could not be improved.

Under difficult track conditions last year's winner Chris Mamerow (Germany, Mamerow Racing PZ Essen) secured his first pole position of the season in 1:42.967 minutes on the 4.3 kilometre Circuit Park Zandvoort.

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American Le Mans in Lime Rock: RS Spyder on second row

Stuttgart -- After a strong performance in qualifying, Patrick Long (USA) takes off into the fifth round of the American Le Mans Series in Lime Rock Park/Connecticut from the second row of the grid with his Porsche RS Spyder.

Starting Saturday's race one row behind Long is his team mate Romain Dumas (France) in the second Penske Racing sports prototype from Weissach.

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Transsyberia Rally 2008, Leg 1: Porsche takes lead

Stuttgart -- The Team Porsche Portugal is in the lead of the 2008 Transsyberia Rally powered by Sony Ericsson after the first of 14 legs.

With a faultless drive on rain-sodden and extremely muddy forest tracks as well as through many water crossings, Pedro Gameiro and Pedro Figueiredo relegated their Team Germany 3 opponents Lars Kern and Daniel van Kan to second position in their 385 hp Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia.

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July 12, 2008

Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series

Affalterbach - Sensational appearance, unique performance data, with light-weight design throughout and total exclusivity - that's the new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series.

This high-performance coupé is a motorsport engineering thoroughbred, opening up new drive dynamic vistas to sports car enthusiasts.

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Ford's Quick Lane Business Bolstering Dealership Bottom Line

DEARBORN, Mich. - When Bill Vann, owner of Albion Motors Ford Mercury, Inc., opened up a Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center at his dealership in Albion, Mich., he hoped it would provide a convenience for his customers that would bring them back to the dealership for routine maintenance and maybe even a new vehicle.

Three years later, Vann says his Quick Lane business is surpassing his original expectations.

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Renault-Nissan Commit to Zero Emission Vehicles in Portugal

LISBON -- The Government of Portugal and the Renault Nissan Alliance today announced a partnership to promote zero-emission mobility across that country.

The partnership was launched today in Lisbon, in the presence of Mr. José Sócrates, the Prime Minister of Portugal, and Mr. Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Renault and President and CEO of Nissan.

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