Reports on the latest technological advances in the auto industry.
2005/8/28
@ 11:19 AM (46 months, 25 days ago)
General Motors today provided an E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe to the Ohio Corn Growers for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in Ohio. The vehicle presentation was made today during the Ohio State Fair at an event attended by Ohio Director of Agriculture Fred Dailey, Rep. Steve Reinhard and Sen. Larry Mumper. As part of the campaign, the Ohio Corn Growers will showcase the E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe in various ways and events throughout the year. Currently, Ohio has an estimated annual ethanol production capacity of more than four million gallons. "I'm pleased that GM is providing an E85 vehicle to help our state increase awareness about ethanol fuel and the importance of decreasing our dependence on foreign...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:32 AM (46 months, 26 days ago)
Jim Hall's "Road Runners" used to dominate many a North American road-race weekend. On August 19-21 they'll do it again. Every surviving example of the Chaparral 2 series, plus three of the earlier Chaparral 1s, will be at Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca during the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races Presented by Chrysler. Chaparral, this year's featured marque, headlines the event's overall theme of "Great American Specials." Coming straight from their permanent home at the Petroleum Museum in Midland, Texas, the type 2 cars-seven in all, from original "A" through Indy-winner "K"-won't be racing, but they will be turning demonstration laps in the hands of historic Chaparral race winners Phil Hill, V...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/27
@ 03:58 AM (46 months, 27 days ago)
The AP reported that the Nihon Keizai newspaper said Toyota Motor Corp., Japan's biggest automaker, plans to nearly double production capacity at its plant in South Africa by 2007 as part of a strategy to expand overseas. "The plant, operated by the subsidiary Toyota South Africa Motors, will raise its output capacity to 200,000 vehicles a year, from its current level of 110,000 vehicles." The newspapers story went on to say that by 2007, the plant is expected to be assembling up to 120,000 of Toyota's IMV series pickups and sport utility vehicles a year. The vehicles will be exported to the European market, where Toyota's unit sales rose 10 percent to 916,000 vehicles last year, the newspaper said. Toyota's European production jumped...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/26
@ 11:25 AM (46 months, 27 days ago)
The Chrysler brand is basking in minivan sales euphoria. U.S. sales of the Chrysler Town & Country are up 47.6 percent in the first seven months of 2005 compared with the same period of last year. In July, sales jumped 87.4 percent. Employee discount pricing linked with a $2,000 customer-cash rebate lit the sales fire. Despite the price cutting, the average per-vehicle transaction price rose in July. Customers in July shelled out more, on average, for each Town & Country than in the previous four months, according to a price analysis by the Power Information Network. The Power study is based on retail transaction data from more than 6,200 dealer franchises. For example, the average Town & Country transaction price in July was $24,589, according to the data. That i...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:43 AM (46 months, 28 days ago)
It's not really fair to say that the Jaguar Super V8 is a great car, because a car that's priced at $91,395 SHOULD be a great car. But I felt that during the week we drove the Jag, and covered more than 1,600 miles, we gave it just about every test we could give a car outside of the race track, and it passed with flying colours. We used the Jaguar Super V8 in the Seattle, Washington, area. We drove it in the city, on ferries, and to Mt. Ranier, Mt. St. Helens, Olympic NP, North Cascades NP, and everywhere we could get a car. We discovered, much to our surprise, that Seattle is much like San Francisco, in that the city has some big hills right in the center of town. We'd turn a corner and face what looked like a wall in front of us. All we had to do...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/25
@ 12:13 PM (46 months, 28 days ago)
Dodge announced pricing today for the quickest sedan in its lineup, the all-new 2006 Dodge Charger SRT8. Adding a new level of Dodge DNA to the SRT formula of benchmark performance at the lowest price, the all-new 2006 Dodge Charger SRT8 is available for $35,995, which includes $675 for destination. Dodge Charger SRT8 arrives in Dodge showrooms in November. "With a 425-horsepower SRT-engineered HEMI, the all-new 2006 Dodge Charger SRT8 is the quickest sedan in the Dodge lineup," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President - Dodge Marketing, Chrysler Group. "It combines SRT performance of zero to 60 mph in about 5 seconds and 0-100-0 in under 17 seconds, with the bold, in-your-face attitude that's all Dodge. "Add it all up for $35,995 -- and the al...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 12:13 PM (46 months, 28 days ago)
Mercedes-Benz USA and Saks Fifth Avenue come together to offer the Signature Edition of the all-new 2007 S-Class sedan. Just 20 Signature Edition S-Class vehicles will be offered exclusively through Saks' annual "The Gift" holiday catalog which mails to customers on October 16, 2005. Widely recognized as the world's benchmark luxury sedan, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class can trace its history back to 1924. Since this time it has continued to redefine the pinnacle of automotive engineering with each new generation introduced. Pairing an aggressive and commanding design, with revolutionary technology, such as Night View infra-red driving assistance, the all-new the 2007 S-Class will make its official public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this Septembe...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/24
@ 04:52 AM (47 months, 18 minutes ago)
TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. , the global leader in automotive safety systems, today announced that various company subsidiaries will supply General Motors (GM) with advanced active and passive safety technology for the upcoming 2006 Cadillac DTS. The DTS features numerous TRW Automotive safety and convenience systems, including anti-lock braking systems, traction control, StabiliTrak (TM) (electronic stability control), advanced airbag systems, and rain sensing windshield wiper sensors. The StabiliTrak system featured on the 2006 DTS is designed to assist drivers during difficult driving conditions by monitoring steering wheel angle, yaw rate and lateral acceleration. If a potential loss of vehicle control is sensed, StabiliTrak automatically adjusts brake pressu...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/23
@ 11:45 AM (47 months, 17 hours ago)
Iteris Inc. (AMEX:ITI), a leader in the development of vision-based technology that enhances driver safety, is taking its award-winning Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system on the road as part of the Infiniti Limited Engagement Summer Tour. The tour will showcase the technological advances featured in Infiniti's dynamic 2006 model lineup including the new M, Q45 Sport model and FX. Iteris is one of only three companies invited by Infiniti to participate in the tour, which will visit Northern California, Dallas, Miami, New York, and Chicago. The LDW system, jointly developed for Nissan by Iteris and Valeo, was first introduced on the Infiniti FX sport utility vehicle and became the first production application of the technology in the North American passenger ca...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/22
@ 11:01 AM (47 months, 1 day ago)
The polite thing to say here is that one of the cars in this comparison makes an excellent commuter and long-distance autobahner, while the other is a surprising amount of fun to drive at the track. But that's only three-quarters of the story, because the car that is a surprising amount of fun to drive at the track is also an excellent commuter and long-distance autobahner. So the winner was pretty obvious to us, though we didn't expect it to be such a runaway. If you want to know the winner, you can skip all the way to the end of the article, but you have a whole week until your next issue arrives, so why not read on and let the suspense build? We're talking here about the new Lexus GS 430 and Infiniti M45, which are statistically nearly identical c...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 03:58 AM (47 months, 2 days ago)
The growing costs of U.S. dependence on oil have hit home. Factor in world insecurity, economic instability, and it's clear we pay a lot more to fill up our cars than the price on the pump. And with the threat of global warming, it's clear we need to use much less oil. How can we start to change? The century-old gasoline-powered engine is on its way out. Auto makers say the answer will someday be fuel cell cars. Maybe, but we need to get affordable cars now that use far less gas with lower greenhouse gas emissions. A first step is already on our roads. Hybrid cars add an electric motor to a gas-powered engine to improve efficiency at slow speeds and rev up when needed. The popularity of the first hybrids caught auto makers by surprise. Yet as they scramb...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/21
@ 11:17 AM (47 months, 2 days ago)
Volkswagen Canada will bring the 2006 new Passat model to the Canadian market this month. The all-new sedan will represent the most sophisticated and affordable German-built family midsize car on the market today, with the starting price at $29,950. The new Passat's base engine is upgraded to a sophisticated new four-cylinder engine, the 2.0T. This two-litre is efficient and sporty and uses a turbocharger and an intercooler for cool, higher-density intake air. The 2.0T's high-end breathing is further enhanced by its four-valves per cylinder. The engine's overall efficiency begins with an advanced direct-injection fuel delivery system that culminates in 200 hp at 5,100 revolutions per minute, and 207 lbs.-ft. of torque all the way from 1,800 rpm to 5,0...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/20
@ 11:45 AM (47 months, 3 days ago)
Remember Baldwin-Motion, the New York Chevy dealer partnered with Motion Performance to take stock Camaros, Chevelles, Novas and Corvettes and build them into big block street supremacy from 1967 to 1974? Well now the big blocks are back. Come the Specialty Equipment Market Association show this November, the re-founded Motion LLC will launch the Baldwin-Motion Camaro SuperCoupe, a tube-chassis monster the cost of which will scare even the captains of industry who might be able to afford it. "It's very expensive," said Motion partner Marty Shorr. "It's not a $100,000 car-it's considerably more." While each of the 12 cars planned will be coach-built to customer specs, you can expect a 600-hp, 8.8-liter V8 with aluminum block and h...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/19
@ 11:11 AM (47 months, 4 days ago)
With the speed and precision of a NASCAR pit crew, the all-new 2006 Dodge Charger will be built from a box full of parts before the eyes of passersby in city centers across the country. The Dodge Charger "Model Box Build," which plays off a youthful passion for assembling model cars, comes to the Woodward Dream Cruise on Saturday, August 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The tour, featuring one of America's favorite model cars, will benefit the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program. At each tour stop, Dodge will collect toys for Toys for Tots, which will donate them to needy children in December for the holiday season. "The Dodge Charger Model Box Build reflects the fun and excitement of the all-new 2006 Dodge Charger," said Darryl Jackson...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 05:20 AM (47 months, 4 days ago)
Batman. That's what you think when you see the Maybach Exelero in all its dark-bodied, four-wheeled fury. "Ja, that's what everyone says," said the Mercedes technician prepping the car for our drive. "Batman." And not the happy, funny, campy Batman of the 1966 TV series starring Adam West and Burt Ward (not to mention Burgess Meredith, Cesar Romero, Julie Newmar and Frank Gorshin). There is nothing happy, funny or campy about this car. No, the Batman you think of when you see and drive this Maybach coupe is the darker, almost sinister Batman of the movies that came 30 years later. The Batman who carried the heavy burden of crime for all of Gotham City and, consequently, wasn't a particularly chipper rodent. Maybe even the new Bat...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/18
@ 11:06 AM (47 months, 5 days ago)
Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America (TMMNA) announced today that it will invest an additional $50 million at its San Antonio plant currently under construction to allow for a 50,000 vehicle increase in overall production capacity. This will bring the total investment of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX) to $850 million and will give the plant total production capacity of 200,000 vehicles per year. TMMTX is scheduled to begin production of the Tundra full-size pick-up truck by the end of 2006. "Toyota's announcement today that it is investing another $50 million in Texas is great news for our state," Gov. Rick Perry said. "I am particularly proud to be making this announcement on the same day that my wife, First Lady Anita Perry, and...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 08:26 AM (47 months, 5 days ago)
For years we have been shouting (to whoever would listen) that the American buyer really wants and needs just one thing...to believe that they have not been raped as they drive their just delivered new car home from the dealer. Our understanding and belief is that the retail auto business is one of the last bastions of "horse trading" with neophyte buyers (that's all of us...) always wondering whether they have been treated fairy and squarely on not...until Now! These family plans allow buyers to believe that they really got a fair price, and that's all they have been asking for...just treat me like you would a family member... now they are, and have responded with opened wallets and smiles on their faces...for American built cars no less, hey...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/17
@ 11:39 AM (47 months, 6 days ago)
The all-new Chrysler Crossfire has officially landed on U.S. shores after months of anticipation. The first 132 vehicles destined for customers' garages will arrive in dealerships in the next two weeks. With stunning American design and proven German engineering, Crossfire has been deemed the first drivable result of the historic merger between Daimler-Benz and Chrysler. With the exception of transmission and tire options, Chrysler Crossfire comes fully-equipped with a number of standard premium amenities including heated leather seats, power windows, speed control, dual-zone temperature control, customized Crossfire luggage, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist and a deployable rear spoiler. Under its hood is a 3.2-liter 90-degree V-6, 18-valve SOHC e...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 06:11 AM (47 months, 6 days ago)
In collaboration with the Nippon Paint Company, Mazda Motor Corporation has developed a new electrodeposition basecoat--known as e-coating--that substantially reduces both volatile organic compounds (VOC) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Raising Mazda's painting process to a new world standard, e-coating efficiently adheres paint to metal surfaces and raises the rust protection quality of Mazda vehicles. The launch of this new painting technology began in May 2005 at the Ujina No.2 Plant at Mazda's global headquarters in Hiroshima, and will be extended to all of its main production facilities in Japan by the end of 2005. Mazda has already completed the introduction of itIn collaboration with the Nippon Paint Company, Mazda Motor Corporation has developed a new electrodeposition basecoat--known as e-coating--that substantially reduces both volatile organic compounds (VOC) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Raising Mazda's painting process to a new world standard, e-coating efficiently adheres paint to metal surfaces and raises the rust protection quality of Mazda vehicles. The launch of this new painting technology began in May 2005 at the Ujina No.2 Plant at Mazda's global headquarters in Hiroshima, and will be extended to all of its main production facilities in Japan by the end of 2005. Mazda has already completed the introduction of its world-first "Three Layer Wet Paint System" to all of its plants in Japan...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/16
@ 11:16 AM (47 months, 7 days ago)
SUVs and light trucks are less prone to rollover according to new rankings and reports released today by the National Highway Transportation Agency (NHTSA). Less than five years after the implementation of NHTSA's rollover rating program, the number of SUVs earning four-stars has grown from 1 to 24. SUVOA supports new technologies such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that play a vital role in decreasing SUV rollovers. NHTSA preliminary research found that ESC was responsible for reducing single vehicle crashes in SUVs by 67 percent. ESC-equipped vehicles allow drivers to feel the system's response when the vehicle could be about to roll or otherwise go out of control. While SUV rollover crashes are relatively rare, in 2002 NHTSA reported that when c...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:27 AM (47 months, 8 days ago)
The 2006 Ford Explorer will be available in four different trim levels and will cost less than the 2005 model by an average of $1,750. The reduction in sticker prices will range from a $635 savings on the XLS model to $3,900 on the Eddie Bauer edition. There will be new options available on the Explorer for 2006, including 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, a DVD-based navigation system, a power-fold third-row seat with a 50-50 split, leather-trimmed bolster with Preferred SuedeTM seat inserts on Eddie Bauer models and a one-touch moonroof. Later this year, SIRIUS satellite radio will be available as a factory-installed option on the 2006 Explorer....
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/15
@ 10:56 AM (47 months, 8 days ago)
The six-kilometre visitor trail in the A3 and A4 production plant at Audi in Ingolstadt has been reinterpreted: Dr. Jochem Heizmann, Board Member for Production, and Plant Manager Frank Dreves have just given the starting signal. Visitors now experience the entire production process - with additional display boards and exhibits - which is illustrated at eleven stations on the tour of the plant. These include the Press Shop, the Body Shop, the Paint Shop, final assembly and the testing area. The two new additions are "Electronics" and "Health Protection". Around 120,000 visitors tour the plant in Ingolstadt every year. "As a customer interface, our new visitor route is just as "premium" in nature as our products," says Board Me...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:36 AM (47 months, 9 days ago)
Commodore Greg Thomas of Detroit- based Bayview Yacht Club (BYC) today announced the support of the Outstate Lincoln Mercury Dealer Group and welcomed the 90 member organization as official automotive sponsor of the 81st Bacardi Bayview Mackinac Race scheduled to set sail from Port Huron, Michigan, on Saturday, July 23, 2005. The Bayview Mackinac Race has been a Michigan tradition since 1925. Each year, the best skippers and crews gather to test their skills and the capabilities of their boats. From mast to keep, each craft is carefully tuned to be the best that it can be. This same attention to perfection is the driving force behind another Michigan tradition that had its beginnings in 1917 when Henry Leland founded the Lincoln Motor Company. Since then, every Linc...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/14
@ 11:15 AM (47 months, 9 days ago)
Na Jeong-ju writing for the Korea Times reported that a consortium led by Hyundai Automotive Group will soon finalize the takeover of Hyundai Autonet, the nation's largest car audio maker. The Public Fund Oversight Committee yesterday approved the acquisition of the car audio equipment producer by a consortium formed by Hyundai Motor and Germany-based Siemens AG. The panel approved the sale of a 43.24-percent stake held by state-run Korea Deposit Insurance Corp. (KDIC) in Hyundai Autonet for 237 billion won ($230 million). The committee's sale approval follows the one last month by the Fair Trade Commission (FTC), the country's corporate watchdog. The Hyundai Motor-Siemens consortium was picked in early March as the preferred negotiator to acquire...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:55 AM (47 months, 10 days ago)
Rob Bunker proved the value of his targetted testing and coaching program with two strong results in Formula BMW USA races on July 30 and 31. The Bridgewater, N.J., driver is patiently climbing the ranks as he completes his rookie season with the series. Bunker, his Speed Secrets coaches and the AIM Autosport team have implemented a strategy aimed at identifying the best driving style for each turn at each track. They focus on maximizing performance in each corner, rather than chasing overall speed. They were rewarded at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala., this past weekend, when Bunker drove his No. 18 Formula BMW FB2 to seventh- and sixth-place finishes in 20-car fields. "We came to the weekend with the goal to change the outlook of how everyone saw...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/13
@ 11:06 AM (47 months, 10 days ago)
It's good to be the king, but when you're the king, someone is always out to get you. And when you're the benchmark in the compact sports-luxury class, it's no different. The BMW 3-Series has held that enviable position since the advent of the 320i in 1978, when it added luxury to the performance equation developed by the BMW 2002. The 3-Series has been the target of every small sports, sports-luxury, luxury-sports, and luxury sedan that has come off the production line in the past quarter century, and has yet to be dethroned. That's not from lack of trying. And the competitors are not shy about mentioning the 3-Series in product presentations, or even advertising, and comparing their products to it. But, somehow, BMW always manages to stay...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:18 AM (47 months, 11 days ago)
The organisers of the XX World Youth Day in Cologne from 16 - 21 August 2005 are expecting some 800,000 young people from 160 countries for the first official journey of Pope Benedict XVI. Under the motto "We Have Come to Worship Him" taken from St. Matthew's Gospel, young people of all confessions will have the opportunity to, pray, sing, discuss and celebrate at over 500 events. The highlight is the Concluding Mass with Pope Benedict XVI on the Marienfeld to the west of Cologne on 21 August 2005. As the official automobile partner, the Volkswagen Group represented by Audi, Europcar and Volkswagen supports the XX World Youth Day with a broad selection from its product range. 100 Volkswagen Group vehicles, including the Audi A3 Sportback, Audi A8, Gol...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/12
@ 11:17 AM (47 months, 11 days ago)
Lexus announced today the 2006 SC 430 hardtop convertible gets a new look and improved performance. The revised exterior styling of the SC includes a new front grille and front bumper, new LED tail lights and a new headlamp design that includes the Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), which helps illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it. In addition, a new six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission replaces the SC's five-speed unit for 2006, enhancing overall acceleration and fuel economy. The revised gear ratios also help lower the interior cruising noise levels. New 5-spoke 18-inch wheels with metallic gray finish give the SC 430 a more aggressive, substantial appearance. The SC also receives four new exterior colors: Mercury Metallic,...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:51 AM (47 months, 12 days ago)
The concept star of the 2005 Geneva Auto Show is about to become a production reality for Ford Motor Company. The production version of the SAV Concept vehicle will become a new model early in 2006, produced at the Ford plant in Genk, Belgium. At the Geneva show, the SAV was notable for two distinct qualities. It marked a new type of vehicle in Europe with few competitors, the sports activity vehicle. The SAV falls between the Mondeo sedan and the Galaxy minivan. With three rows of seats, the SAV is intended to offer a flexible family vehicle equally adept at transporting people and luggage. In addition, the concept signaled a new direction for Ford of Europe's design. The production model will retain most of the concept's design characteristics: dynami...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/11
@ 11:45 AM (47 months, 12 days ago)
The yearly ritual is repeated. This year once again, at Goodwood - in the green countryside of the south of England - 140 thousand spectators attended the "Festival of Speed", the world's most prestigious vintage car rally. It was organised, as it has been for the last 12 years, by the aristocrat Lord Charles March, who welcomed over 300 cars by the world's most famous manufacturers onto his estate. An authentic mobile museum whose overall worth is valued in millions of Euro. The event sponsor was Alfa Romeo, who also brought along some gems from the Arese museum: the P2, the 159 driven by Fangio in 1951, the 2900 Le Mans, the Disco volante spider and coupe, the sporty 2000 and the 33 Daytona. The sight offered by these classic cars, all in perf...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:18 AM (47 months, 13 days ago)
Like an enduring marriage a half-century in the making, the love affair between car lovers and the Ford Thunderbird has gone through many cycles, good times and less-than-good times, unexpected changes and bumps in the road, but the initial attraction has never waned. While the design looks on the outside and inside of the Thunderbird have changed through the years - how could any nameplate that has endured for 50 years not go through some changes? - Thunderbirds aficionados have largely made their peace with different generations of their brethren. Following the history of the Thunderbird can be like watching the progression of automotive design since the car made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in February of 1954. Eleven "generations" of Thunderbi...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/10
@ 11:09 AM (47 months, 13 days ago)
1948: The first production Land Rover is introduced at the Amsterdam Auto Show on April 30. The vehicle is equipped with 80" wheelbase, permanent four-wheel drive, canvas roof and optional doors.
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@ 05:14 AM (47 months, 13 days ago)
Jaguar's premier Select Edition Certified Pre-Owned Program has been recognized by top Spanish automotive magazine, AutoMundo, as the "Best Certified Pre-Owned Program" of 2005. As one of the fastest and most critical growing segments within the Hispanic population, certified pre-owned vehicles offer consumers the opportunity to buy a used car that has been thoroughly inspected and backed by the manufacturer. Recognizing its importance, this is the first year AutoMundo Magazine has selected a Best Certified Pre-Owned Program. "In evaluating the numerous certified used car programs available to consumers, the Jaguar Select Edition stood out amongst its rivals. We recognize and reward the opportunity to buy a luxury Jaguar with a full warranty at...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/9
@ 05:01 AM (47 months, 15 days ago)
The 2005 Chrysler 300 has returned the great American car to the podium, winning the 2005 Motor Trend Car of the Year award. "We're excited about the all-new 2005 Chrysler 300 taking its rightful place as the winner of this prestigious award," said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. "It acknowledges all of our employees' hard work in bringing a new standard for American large cars to reality and serves as further inspiration to those who have re-invented high-performance, contemporary sedans." The 2005 Chrysler 300 faced intense competition from other cars in this year's competition, but emerged as the clear-cut winner for its unique combination of contemporary styling and powerful performance delivered by it...
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2005/8/8
@ 11:25 AM (47 months, 15 days ago)
With a CSI score of 915 (on a 1,000-point scale), Lincoln ranks highest in customer satisfaction with dealer service, receiving a record-setting high CSI score for the second consecutive year, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Customer Service Index (CSI) StudySM released today. The study, now in its 25th year, measures customer satisfaction of vehicle owners who visited the dealer service department for maintenance or repair work during the first three years of ownership, which typically represents the majority of the vehicle warranty period. Overall customer satisfaction is based on six measures: service initiation, service advisor, in-dealership experience, service delivery, service quality and user-friendly service. Lincoln outperforms other bran...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:31 AM (47 months, 16 days ago)
Approximately 2,000 fans of the rap band The Roots jammed the Chelsea Pier in Manhattan recently for the first in a series of surprise concerts designed to promote the launch of the 2006 Ford Fusion. The Fusion Flash Concert series is a collaboration between Ford Division and Sony Pictures Digital to produce a series of free, unannounced-until-the-last-minute concerts performed by 10 emerging music artists in secret locations around the country. "Flash concerts are something Sony has been doing in different markets for a couple of years," said Michelle Erwin, car marketing manager, Ford Division. "But this is the first time in the music industry that their will be a series of concerts." Fusion Flash Concerts is a new take on the underground...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
2005/8/7
@ 09:21 AM (47 months, 16 days ago)
One year ahead of the next Football World Cup, Audi staged these days its very own World Cup for customer service. The Audi Twin Cup is celebrating its 10th anniversary. For the first time, all teams which qualified for the final round were invited to take part in an international final in Salzburg. Teams from all over the world, from countries as far apart as Chile and China, pitted their skills against each other in the Technology and Service categories. This competition was all about practical knowledge and teamwork: the participants from 21 different countries were called upon to demonstrate their specialist knowledge both directly on a vehicle and in typical customer situations. By the evening of the final day, the winners from the 32 competing teams were know...
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@ 07:15 AM (47 months, 16 days ago)
Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has now significantly increased the computing capacities available for its simulation calculations. Today, the Minister President for Baden Wurttemberg, Gunther Oetiinger, was present to witness both the official inauguration of the newly constructed high-performance computer center at the University of Stuttgart and the start-up of the extremely powerful NEC SX-8 supercomputer. Porsche will use this high-performance computer to perform the complex computer simulations required as part of its vehicle development activities even more rapidly and efficiently than before. The new electronic NEC SX-8 "super brain" delivers a computing performance of 8,923 terraflops, a feat that puts it at no. 27 in the list of the worl...
[Car Reviews] [Concept Car] [Auto News]
@ 04:47 AM (47 months, 17 days ago)
This motor car is unique - H.J. Mulliner built such a variant just once on a Bentley S1 chassis. The model remained almost unknown because you had to search for quite some time before before you could find it appearing in print anywhere. The design, of course, is well known. Front wings running through to the tail in an unbroken line, accentuated by the superimposed rear wings, are a key feature of quite a few 4-door saloons from which the "Flying Spur" was developed as the H.J. Mulliner 4-door creation on the Bentley S1 Continental chassis. Rear seat occupants can't detect any considerable compromise as regards interior space on this two-door version - they enjoy plenty of room. The wide doors offer comfortable access to the rear seats. Well worth me...
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@ 02:46 AM (47 months, 17 days ago)
On 15th September Luc Donckerwolke (40) will be appointed Director of Design at SEAT. Donckerwolke will also assume the responsibility for the Spanish company's Design Center. This is currently run by Steve Lewis who, together with Walter de'Silva, the Head of the Audi brand group design, was instrumental in implementing SEAT's new sporty and emotional design language. Lewis will take over new responsibilities within the Audi brand group. Luc Donckerwolke will not leave Lamborghini design before completing the current model range with the open version of the Gallardo, to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show on Monday 12th September. A Belgian national but born in Peru, the multilingual son of a diplomat has always been a car fanatic. He is responsi...
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2005/8/6
@ 10:26 AM (47 months, 17 days ago)
The all-new Volvo C70 offers both, thanks to its unique three-piece retractable hardtop. Volvo has released the first photos and details on the C70, which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September. The new C70 is about the same size as its predecessor, equally wide and a full four-seater. With the retractable hardtop down, the C70 lets in the sun as a true convertible. Putting the hardtop up creates a car with the styling of a coupe. "We've succeeded in creating an attractive convertible which, at the mere touch of a button, converts into an equally elegant coupe. The customer gets two cars in one. Both with space for four adults," said Volvo Cars President and CEO Hans-Olov Olsson. "Putting together harmonious lines both with...
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@ 09:46 AM (47 months, 17 days ago)
Destined to become the new benchmark for sporting saloons, the latest creation from Alfa Romeo has an important mission: to replace a successful car (the 156) of which over 680 thousand units were produced. In other words, a model at the very top of the category, which we preview below. The undoubted star of the Geneva International Motor Show, today sees the launch of the Alfa 159, destined to replace the old Alfa 156. The fruit of Alfa's long years of experience in the field of prestige sporting saloons, the Alfa 159 marks the birth of a new generation of cars. In particular, the 'Alfa 159' project uses innovative design methods, and an international team has managed (without stooping to compromise) to combine performance with hitherto seemingly irr...
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@ 06:17 AM (47 months, 17 days ago)
Company taps Live 8 sponsorship to launch nation's largest celebration of local heroes Nominations accepted at www.volvoforlifeawards.com; total of $1 million in charitable contributions to heroes; winner receives a car for life Volvo Cars of North America today announced it will launch the nation's largest-ever search for and celebration of every day, local heroes during its global sponsorship of the Live 8 concert event to end poverty this Saturday, July 2. Volvo will air a series of 30-second advertisements during the Live 8 telecast on ABC-TV Saturday, 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. ET, to introduce the Volvo for life Awards, which will call on people nationwide to visit http://www.volvoforlifeawards.com/to nominate a local hero they know doing the extraordinary i...
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@ 01:46 AM (47 months, 18 days ago)
Jaguar has achieved a quadruple hit in the latest J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study released today. The Initial Quality Study is based on responses from more than 62,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2005 model-year cars and trucks, who were surveyed after 90 days of ownership. Jaguar rose from third in 2004 to rank second overall, a 10- percent improvement over last year's results, and maintained its position as the highest-ranking European manufacturer. Jaguar's best performing model was the X-TYPE sedan. The X-TYPE, which has been critically assessed by the media in recent months, has improved by 37 problems per 100 vehicles in the study, a massive improvement of 35 % over last year's results. In addition, Jaguar's Halewood p...
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2005/8/5
@ 09:52 AM (47 months, 18 days ago)
Britain's Land Rover has successfully advanced its manufacturing processes in Solihull, England and now has some of the most advanced design, engineering and manufacturing facilities in the world. The infrastructure will support the all-new LR3, as well as other future Land Rover products later this decade. Since acquired by Ford Motor Company four years ago, the Solihull manufacturing and Gaydon design and engineering sites in the UK have been extensively overhauled. A massive capital expenditure has modernized some buildings that pre-date WWII, as well as erecting new assembly halls and infrastructure to enable the company to build advanced new models of their legendary four-wheel drive vehicles. The Range Rover, launched in 2002, was the result of more tha...
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@ 06:59 AM (47 months, 18 days ago)
BMW announced today a national broadcast, print, radio and Internet marketing campaign for its Certified Pre-Owned program that will launch June 27, 2005. The "Unwilling to Compromise" spots created by Publicis New York will underscore that people can have the BMW they've always wanted - without compromise. "The BMW Certified Pre-Owned program is an excellent way for people who desire a premium vehicle to treat themselves with The Ultimate Driving Machine," said Sergio Carvajal, Pre-Owned Manager - Marketing for BMW NA. "The campaign is designed to let consumers know the BMW Certified Pre-Owned program has excellent vehicles and a wide selection to satisfy the buyer who is not willing to compromise on anything, even if it is a minor de...
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@ 05:20 AM (47 months, 18 days ago)
2005 Mercury Montego earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest technical safety rating of "Best Pick" designation for offset frontal crash performance. 2005 Mercury Montego also received the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) top five-star crash-test rating for front- and side-impacts - one of the only 2005 model passenger cars tested to achieve this performance without the optional side air bags. Class-leading affordability and safety combine to make the 2005 Mercury Montego one of the most attractive large sedans for today's safety conscious consumers. The 2005 Mercury Montego large sedan, today added another award to its safety "trophy case" by earning IIHS' highest tec...
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@ 02:14 AM (47 months, 19 days ago)
Getz / Click, the most popular car in the Hyundai Motor Co. lineup, sports a fresher, trendier appearance thanks to a major facelift. The domestic version of the new Click was unveiled at Seoul's Everland Speedway on Sunday, July 10 while the export edition, which sells under the Getz badge, will be shown the Frankfurt Motor Show in September this year. The Click/Getz has been a runaway success. Since its debut in May 2002, nearly 550,000 have been sold worldwide. Last year, it displaced Elantra as the best-selling model in Hyundai's lineup with 194,489 units sold worldwide. Major revisions to the headlamps, rear combination lamps, fog lamps, front and rear bumpers strengthen Click's / Getz's youth appeal. Revisions continue inside where there&#...
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2005/8/3
@ 09:53 AM (47 months, 20 days ago)
The Fine-N hints at the coming revolution in automotive design by employing an advanced fuel-cell system. It touts an innovative package and fresh styling made possible by its fuel cell layout and four in-wheel motors....
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@ 07:59 AM (47 months, 20 days ago)
The Phaeton W12 has become even more powerful: the top Volkswagen model now generates 331 kW (450 hp). New registrations of the luxury saloon also made significant strides in Germany and Europe. The power output of the new Phaeton W12 has been boosted by 22 kW (30 hp) by means of internal engine modifications. At the same time, maximum torque has increased from 550 to 560 Nm, and is now available from just 2,750 rpm instead of the previous 3,000 rpm. This means that the overall drive characteristics have again become more refined. As well as the twelve-cylinder engine, V6 and V8 petrol engines and V6 and V10 turbodiesel engines are available for the Phaeton. All engine versions of the saloon come as standard with permanent four-wheel drive (4MOTION). According to...
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@ 04:54 AM (47 months, 21 days ago)
Between sailing and cars, it was love at first sight. Alfa Romeo has become the Official Supplier to Luna Rossa, the yacht busily preparing for the prestigious 2007 America’s Cup.Alfa Romeo leapt at the chance to take part in this extraordinary adventure, since it shares the same philosophy behind the Luna Rossa team: sporting determination combined with the most advanced technological innovation....
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@ 01:23 AM (47 months, 21 days ago)
IndyCar Series championship leader Dan Wheldon led the Honda-powered field in qualifying action Saturday at The Milwaukee Mile for the ABC Supply/A.J.Foyt 225. Wheldon posted the fourth-fastest qualifying run with an average speed of 169.0 mph, while Team Penske's Sam Hornish Jr. recorded his third pole of the season, the others coming at Twin Ring Motegi in Japan and Richmond, Virginia. Danica Patrick again led the rookie contingent in qualifying and will start sixth for Rahal Letterman Racing, leading a pack of Honda-powered drivers filling out the middle of the 21-car starting field. Dario Franchitti, the winner last week in Nashville, will start eighth for Andretti Green Racing. In 2004 Franchitti started seventh at Milwaukee and went on to score his first...
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2005/8/2
@ 09:29 AM (47 months, 21 days ago)
The first Lincoln Mark LT pickups will coast off the state-of-the-art Dearborn Truck Plant assembly line today as a new era begins for the Lincoln brand. The Mark LT luxury truck joins the most popular pickup in history, the Ford F-150, as the plant broadens its production portfolio. The new truck plant opened in April 2004 as part of the $2 billion revitalization of the historic Rouge Center and is Ford's most flexibly capable plant worldwide, able to produce up to nine different models off three platforms. "We're pleased to add another great product at Dearborn Truck Plant," said Matt DeMars, vice president, North America Vehicle Operations. "The Lincoln Mark LT will be in good company being produced alongside the world's best-sell...
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@ 08:30 AM (47 months, 21 days ago)
American Honda Motor Co. Inc., has been named as a Major Sponsor of RE/MAX's annual World Long Drive Championship, with the final round of competition taking place October 18 - 22 in scenic Mesquite, Nevada. This is the first year that Honda has participated in this premier event in power golf. "Honda is honored to be a part of RE/MAX's World Long Drive Championship, one of golf's most unique events," said Tom Peyton, senior manager of Advertising for Honda. "It is a perfect venue to feature some of our newest products, including the new Accord Hybrid, which is capable of some long drives of its own." This year, Honda has added a special incentive to those golfers with the longest drive in their respective category - a new Honda...
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@ 06:57 AM (47 months, 21 days ago)
The Saab 9-5 and Saab 9-3 hatchback are rated as the safest cars in Sweden following the latest road accident study conducted by Folksam, the country's leading insurance company. The Folksam report, "How Safe is Your Car?", updated every two years, features findings based on an assessment of personal injuries suffered in real-life accidents on Swedish roads. In winning Folksam's safest car award, the Saab 9-5 and 9-3 hatchback were honored for scoring the lowest injury risk rating of 138 different car models in the study. The findings are based on an analysis of 94,100 car-to-car road accidents in Sweden since 1994 involving injuries to 35,400 occupants. An injury risk measurement is produced for each car model on which there is sufficient dat...
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@ 05:38 AM (47 months, 21 days ago)
Land Rover has released the first photographs of Range Rover Sport, an entirely new vehicle from the world's leading sport-utility-vehicle manufacturer. A true performance vehicle, Range Rover Sport is optimized for fast, comfortable long-distance driving. The addition of Range Rover Sport marks the fifth nameplate for the brand and complements the flagship Range Rover. Powered in top-line form by a 4.2-litre, 390-hp, supercharged V8 engine, Range Rover Sport will deliver the highest degree of power ever available on a Land Rover model. A normally aspirated V8 engine option will also bLand Rover has released the first photographs of Range Rover Sport, an entirely new vehicle from the world's leading sport-utility-vehicle manufacturer. A true performance vehicle, Range Rover Sport is optimized for fast, comfortable long-distance driving. The addition of Range Rover Sport marks the fifth nameplate for the brand and complements the flagship Range Rover. Powered in top-line form by a 4.2-litre, 390-hp, supercharged V8 engine, Range Rover Sport will deliver the highest degree of power ever available on a Land Rover model. A normally aspirated V8 engine option will also be available. Excellent on-road dynamics are delivered through Land Rover's new Dynamic Response suspension system and performance-tuned chassis. The innovative system, maki...
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2005/8/1
@ 10:11 AM (47 months, 22 days ago)
You might say that 90 years ago Volvo found its bearings and hasn't lost them since. Or to put it another way, in June of 1915, the name Volvo was officially registered by Svenska Kullagerfabriken - SKF - a Swedish manufacturer of bearings. SKF realized the enormous market potential the automotive business offered for a manufacturer of bearings, and accordingly started up a subsidiary to supply this industry. A member of the company's management with an ear for words and languages came up with the name VOLVO. "Volvere" is the infinitive form of the verb "roll" in Latin. In its first person singular form, the verb "volvere" becomes "volvo", i.e. "I roll". "Volvo came to America in 1955 as a brand know...
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@ 07:45 AM (47 months, 22 days ago)
The Suzuki Concept-X2 SUV (sport utility vehicle) is a rugged, go-anywhere compact SUV designed for adventure-seekers wanting to blend a full-time, four-mode 4x4 system with uncompromised levels of capability, power, performance, safety and style in a right-sized, sport-utility package....
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@ 04:55 AM (47 months, 23 days ago)
IRVINE, Calif. - April 12, 2005 - Land Rover is expanding its existing LR3 model line, giving consumers a greater range of trim-level choices for its award-winning SUV. Heading the enhancements is the introduction of a 4.0-litre V6 engine, which will be offered in addition to the existing 4.4-litre, 300-hp V8.
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@ 02:22 AM (47 months, 23 days ago)
If you're going to introduce your product on The Apprentice, you must ensure that the candidates' task of promoting it is orchestrated for success. Pontiac has joined The Home Depot to form an elite duo of Apprentice sponsors that have truly capitalized on the opportunity to introduce a new product to a captive audience of 10 million American households. A number of heavyweight American corporations including Unilever (Dove), Nestle (Taster's Choice) and Domino's Pizza - have squandered their chance, and presumably a considerable payment to NBC and The Donald. The root of failure for these organizations was their inability to create a task for the candidates that properly positioned the product in the market, and in select cases, having a medi...
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