* Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price starts  at $41,000 ($33,500 net of full federal income tax credit, which ranges from $0 to $7,500); Lease payment on a 36-month lease at MSRP as low as $350 per month with $2,500 due at lease signing including security deposit
* OnStar provides unprecedented connectivity through Volt mobile app; five years of OnStar (Directions and Connections)service standard
* Volt’s eight-year/100,000-mile battery pack warranty provides added peace of mind
* Volt can be your primary car; approximately 340 miles of total range provides freedom to drive wherever, whenever

SAN JOSE, CA – Starting today, participating Chevrolet dealers in launch markets will begin taking customer orders for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt, the industry’s first electric vehicle with extended-range capability.

Chevrolet is so confident in the overall value of the Volt that the brand will offer a lease program on the Volt with a monthly payment as low as $350 for 36 months at Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price with $2,500 due at lease signing, including security deposit based on current conditions, which could vary at time of delivery. The benefit of the $7,500 tax credit is included in the reduced lease payment, with the tax credit going to the lessor.  The Volt’s MSRP will start at $41,000 ($33,500 net of the full federal tax credit, which ranges from $0-$7,500) including a destination freight charge of $720. Customer deliveries of the Chevrolet Volt are scheduled to begin in launch markets late this year with initial production limited.

“The Chevrolet Volt will be the best vehicle in its class…because it’s in a class by itself,” said Joel Ewanick, vice president of U.S. marketing for General Motors, who made the announcement at the Plug-In 2010 conference. “No other automaker offers an electrically driven vehicle that can be your everyday driver, to take you wherever, whenever. The Volt will be packed with premium content and innovation, standard.”

The Volt will be initially available to Chevrolet customers in California, New York, Michigan, Connecticut, Texas, New Jersey and the Washington D.C. area. To be among the first to purchase a Volt, customers can visit their nearest participating Chevrolet Volt dealer. A Volt dealer locator will be available later today at http://www.getmyvolt.com. The dealer will begin the order process, which will be followed up by contact from a dedicated Volt advisor who will be available to answer any questions and keep the customer apprised of the progress of their order. For customers needing general Volt information, Chevrolet will have a team of Volt advisors available to answer questions starting today at 1-888-VOLT-4-YOU (1-888-865-8496).

The Chevrolet Volt is the only electric vehicle that can operate under a range of weather climates and driving conditions with little concern of being stranded by a depleted battery. Volt has a total driving range of about 340 miles and is powered by electricity at all times. For up to the first 40 miles, the Volt drives gas- and tailpipe-emissions-free using electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas powered range-extending engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 300 miles on a full tank.

Depending on their tax situation, Volt owners can qualify for up to $7,500 in U.S. Federal income tax credit, as well as other potential state and local tax credits, depending on location. Owners in certain states may qualify for the added convenience of High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane access.

While the Chevrolet Volt will come standard with a 120-volt charge cord that will provide owners with the ability to charge their Volt directly from a standard home electrical outlet, a total of 4,400 Volt buyers in launch markets could be eligible for a free 240-volt charging station, including home installation.  The installations are part of a program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to install approximately 15,000 240-volt home charging stations across the U.S.

Technologies Keep Volt Customers Connected

When it comes to advanced technology, Volt customers are on the leading edge. The 2011 Chevrolet Volt has standard technology features that link and entertain in innovative ways, starting with standard seven-inch touch screen navigation and an energy-efficient Bose premium audio system.

The Volt is the first GM vehicle to offer five years of OnStar Directions and Connections service, which includes Automatic Crash Response, stolen vehicle assistance and connected navigation, all standard.  Volt will expand on OnStar’s foundation of leading-edge safety and security technology through the introduction of an OnStar-enabled mobile app that connects the vehicle to the owner’s smartphone.

“We wanted to make the Volt ownership experience unlike anything we’ve done at Chevrolet, because the Volt is unlike any vehicle we’ve offered,” said Tony DiSalle, director of Chevrolet Volt product marketing. “We want customers to fully enjoy the Volt lifestyle by providing unprecedented connectivity to their vehicle through the Volt mobile app.”

Unprecedented Warranties Bring Value and Peace of Mind

Volt owners will be provided outstanding battery and vehicle limited warranties. The Volt’s 16-kWh lithium-ion battery is covered by an industry-leading transferable warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles. In addition, Chevrolet will provide:

* 3-year / 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
* 5-year / 100,000-mile roadside assistance and courtesy transportation
* 5-year/100,000-mile limited gas engine coverage
* 6-year/100,000-mile corrosion protection coverage

The Volt also has an array of standard safety features, including eight air bags — dual-stage frontal, side-impact, knee, and roof-rail side-impact—and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with Traction Control.  The Volt is constructed of 80 percent high-strength steel for additional safety and protection.

Chevrolet will also provide customer assistance via a Volt advisor available 24/7 by phone or Internet. Dealers will also provide on-site dedicated Volt service and sales experts who will be able to address inquiries.

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Supercar to be developed in Weissach and assembled in Zuffenhausen

MISSISSAUGA, ON, July 28 /CNW/ – In its session today, the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG gave the green light to series development of the Porsche 918 Spyder.

Reflecting the overwhelming response from the public and customers, Porsche’s board of Management was given the mission to develop a production car based on the ultra-high-performance plug-in hybrid Concept Study, which debuted at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

“Production of the 918 Spyder in a limited series proves that we are taking the right approach with Porsche Intelligent Performance featuring the combination of supreme performance and efficient drivetrain concepts,” said Michael Macht, President and Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche AG. “We will develop the 918 Spyder in Weissach and assemble it in Zuffenhausen. This is also a very important commitment to Germany as a manufacturing base.”

The 918 Spyder Concept Study combines the performance of a super sports car with CO2 emissions of just 70 g/km and with fuel consumption of 3.0 L/100 km in the New European Driving Cycle.

Further product details of the 918 Spyder will be disclosed in the months to come.

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* Explorer raises the bar on SUV safety with a class-leading array of airbags including industry-exclusive inflatable second-row seat belts, a Safety Canopy®, Trinity front crash impact structure and collision warning with brake support
* All-new Explorer features AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™), Curve Control, MyKey™ programmability and MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology – all class-exclusive offerings to help drivers avoid a crash incident
* Explorer features a body structure comprised of high-strength steels – including boron – to increase rigidity and help protect its passengers
* 2011 Explorer arrives with a full complement of additional safety features such as Tire Pressure Monitoring System, SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, first-row Belt-Minder® and seat belt pretensioners

DEARBORN, Mich., July 26, 2010 – The new 2011 Ford Explorer has been reinvented, raising the bar on SUV safety by combining technologies to help avoid crashes with those that set new standards of protection in the event of one.

The comprehensive Explorer safety story adds new features plus an innovative new Ford safety technology – inflatable rear seat belts.

“The new Explorer combines – all at once – our best technologies to not only help prevent a crash, but to help prevent injuries to occupants when a crash is unavoidable,” said Erika Low, Ford safety supervisor. “The use of high-strength steels such as boron in the Explorer body structure also offers a greater level of protection, while meeting the most stringent roof crush standards.”

Explorer showcases Ford’s commitment to crash prevention by offering buyers an unprecedented array of crash avoidance technologies.

World’s first inflatable rear seat belts
The new Explorer offers a Ford technology unique in the automotive industry in the first-ever inflatable second-row seat belts. Rear seat passengers – often children or mature passengers – can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries.

Rear inflatable seat belts demonstrate Ford’s ongoing commitment to occupant safety. The Ford inflatable belts spread impact forces across five times more area than conventional seat belts. This reduces pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion.

Belt comfort also should help increase usage rates. Studies show inflatable belts to be more comfortable for passengers due to padding.

Explorer reduces distraction, warns, intercedes
The Ford SYNC® hands-free, voice-activated integrated communications and entertainment system combines with MyFord Touch driver connect technology to keep drivers focused on driving with their eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel.

The new Explorer also comes equipped with a host of technologies to help prevent crashes – from parking lot fender benders to high-speed collisions – by warning drivers of crash potential. These technologies include options such as:

* BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System)
* Cross-traffic alert
* Adaptive cruise control
* Collision warning with brake support
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Dynamic avoidance technologies include AdvanceTrac electronic stability control with RSCand the world’s first application of Curve Control, a new Ford feature designed to enhance vehicle braking in instances of excessive speed in turning or curve conditions.

Collision warning with brake support and Curve Control actually apply the brakes when these systems sense situation irregularity, helping the driver to avoid an incident by bringing the vehicle back in safe control.

Ford-exclusive MyKeyallows parents to preset limits on vehicle speed and audio system volume levels. In addition, MyKey prevents deactivation of dynamic control systems such as AdvanceTrac and enables parents to set speed warnings. MyKey is a critical factor in minimization and prevention of young driver distraction and risk.

Ford’s Belt-Minderprovides a persistent warning when drivers and front seat passengers fail to buckle seat belts.

Structural safety and crash protection
Explorer features a unibody configuration body structure. Nearly half of this stiff shell is comprised of high-strength steels, such as boron. A-pillars, rocker panels and front beams are boron, for both increased strength and reduced weight. In addition, this structure was designed and developed to exceed stringent rollover standards.

Explorer features Ford’s Trinity front crash structure, so-named for its three components designed to absorb crash forces in the event of an incident.

The initial component is the high-strength boron front beam that absorbs crash forces on impact. These forces then transfer to the shotgun rails, developed to divert impact to the A-pillars and the stiff roof structure. Shotgun rails constitute the second component within the Trinity structure. The third element is an engine cradle designed to break away and drop downward in the event of a frontal impact.

When a crash becomes unavoidable, Explorer relies on a class-leading complement of airbags to protect occupants. Two front and two side second-generation airbags are joined by a Safety Canopyconsisting of side curtain airbags for all three rows of passenger seating. Personal Safety System™ seat belts feature pretensioners and an energy management system with adjustable height in the first row.

Outboard second-row seat locations include the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for attaching child safety seats. Explorer also features an SOS Post-Crash Alert System, while SYNC-equipped models offer 911 Assist™ functionality. In the event of an accident that results in airbag deployment or fuel system cutoff, the vehicle automatically dials the emergency operator. There is no subscription charge for this SYNC-based service.

Ford Motor Company

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Stuttgart. Electric drive will take on an increasingly important role in the further enhancement of Porsche Intelligent Performance. To combine greater efficiency with even lower fuel consumption and emissions, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is working consistently not only on the ongoing development of hybrid concepts already in regular production, but also on practical tests as part of the Stuttgart Model Region for Electromobility, using three research cars with all-electric drive based on the Porsche Boxster.

In the test process, these three electric Boxsters are to provide an initial first important insight into new electric drive components and battery systems for all-electric vehicle drive. This field test intended to also provide further findings on the infrastructure required for electromobility, user behaviour and the demands made of future products, is to start in early 2011.

Michael Macht, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Porsche AG, sees this contribution made by Porsche as absolutely essential: “We will definitely be offering an electric sports car in future. But such a concept only makes sense if it offers product qualities typical of a Porsche.”

Porsche has been committed to electric mobility for a long time, thus helping to preserve the environment and save resources in our world: The spectacular concept study of the 918 Spyder high-performance mid-engined sports car with plug-in hybrid combines high-tech breakthroughs in engine technology and electromobility with a truly fascinating range of further qualities. Emissions otherwise to be found only on a super-mini of just 70 g/km CO2 with three litres fuel consumption for 100 kilometres in the NEDC (equal to 94.1 mpg imp), come with the performance of a super sportscar developing well over 600 horsepower.

The hybrid system of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid has been developed especially for racing, with two 60 kW (82 hp) electric motors on the front axle boosting the 480 hp six-cylinder power unit fitted at the rear. Replacing conventional batteries there is an electrical flywheel power storage system re-charged whenever the driver applies the brakes and thus delivering energy to the electric motors. The 911 GT3 R Hybrid has already proven its racing qualities in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

Introducing the Cayenne S Hybrid, Porsche also offers the first production car in the range able to run under electric power alone. With maximum output of 380 hp, the Cayenne S Hybrid makes do in the NEDC cycle with just 8.2 ltr/100 km (equal to 34.5 mpg imp), and CO2 emissions reduced to a mere 193 g/km. This hybrid technology will also be featured in the future Panamera S Hybrid due to enter the market next year.

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Two-Seater Combines Fun-to-Drive Character and Fuel Efficiency; Goes On Sale Across Canada on August 10

MARKHAM, ON, July 19 /CNW/ – The all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe goes on sale across Canada on Tuesday, August 10, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $23,490 for the standard model with a 6-speed manual transmission. The CR-Z with the optional CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) has an MSRP of $24,290.

“The two-seater CR-Z is a personal sport hybrid coupe for driving enthusiasts that provides an elevated sense of responsibility toward the environment,” said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president Honda Canada Inc. “Honda’s CR-Z is the first gasoline-electric hybrid car designed to maximize style and fun, dynamic handling and fuel efficiency.”

The exterior’s distinctive “one-motion” wedge form originates from its low-slung hood to form a broad forward stance. A side profile with a deeply inset beltline conveys a dynamic tension, while the short wheelbase and large, wide front grille accents the vehicle’s athletic presence.

The interior offers a high-tech appearance and ergonomically intuitive controls. Instrument panel meters illuminate with a three-dimensional, vibrant blue colour theme resulting in a multi-layered appearance.

Developed as a stylish, driver-focused vehicle with an emphasis on efficient performance, the all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z introduces a sleek two-passenger coupe design with quick, sporty handling to the gasoline-electric hybrid segment.

A 1.5-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine works with Honda’s compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system to supply both power and fuel efficiency for the CR-Z. A sport-focused, six-speed manual transmission, standard on the CR-Z, is a first for any mass-produced hybrid. An automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is available and includes steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual-like gear-ratio control.

A new, exclusive three-mode drive system allows the driver to configure the vehicle’s responsiveness for Sport, Normal or Econ (Economy) driving modes.

The “Sport” mode enhances multiple vehicle systems for performance including the engine throttle responsiveness, electric power steering effort and the electric motor power assist. The inner ring of the tachometer illuminates red when the vehicle is in Sport mode.

“Normal” mode provides standard settings for steering, engine response, motor assist and air conditioning. Similar to Econ mode, the tachometer ring transitions between blue and green when the vehicle is in normal mode, with the green representing more ecological driving. Like the Honda Insight, the CR-Z offers an Eco Guide and Eco scoring feature to help drivers track progress of efficient driving styles.

During “Econ” mode operation, designed for optimum fuel economy, the engine’s responsiveness is tuned for optimal economy, the electric motor assist gives priority to fuel efficiency and the air conditioning system can reduce its overall load on the engine. The inner ring of the tachometer transitions between blue and green when the vehicle is in Econ mode, with the green representing more ecological driving.

The CR-Z is well equipped and includes premium features such as a 360-watt AM/FM/CD high-power audio system with seven speakers and subwoofer; Bluetooth(R) HandsFreeLink(R); leather-wrapped steering wheel; 16-inch alloy wheels; HID headlights; automatic climate control; and more.

CR-Z demonstrates Honda’s commitment to safety in the vehicle’s design and construction. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is designed to help protect vehicle occupants in a frontal collision. Additional safety technologies include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)); standard dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags; active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system; and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle.

The optional CVT-equipped CR-Z achieves a Transport Canada-rated fuel economy 5.6 city and 5.0 highway L/100Km. The 6-speed manual transmission model achieves fuel economy of 6.5 city and 5.3 highway L/100Km. (Note: fuel economy ratings were developed with the car in the “normal” driving mode.)

Honda Canada Inc. has sold more than 3,300,000 Honda and Acura passenger cars and light-duty trucks in Canada over the past 37 years. A record high 91 per cent of the Honda and Acura vehicles sold in Canada in 2009 were produced at the company’s assembly plants in North America, up nearly 3 per cent from 2008. In addition, 52 per cent of all Honda and Acura vehicles sold in Canada last year were built at the two Honda of Canada Mfg. plants in Alliston, Ontario.

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* Lincoln is making automotive history with the launch of the new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, offering luxury customers a premium hybrid sedan at the same base price as its conventional gas sibling, with an MSRP starting at $35,180
* The new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid offers modern luxury car buyers all the indulgence of a premium midsize sedan and all the environmental benefits of a world-class hybrid at an amazing price
* The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America with an EPA-certified 41 mpg – 6 mpg better than the hybrid from Lexus, the HS 250h. The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also offers more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features, and at a better price than the Lexus HS 250h

Dearborn, Mich., July 22, 2010 – Lincoln’s new MKZ Hybrid – the most fuel-efficient luxury car in America – will be a standout in the marketplace for another unique distinction when it goes on sale this fall: It will be priced the same as its conventional gas sibling.

“Lincoln is about delivering luxury standard,” said John Felice, general manager, Ford and Lincoln Marketing. “Whether it’s our new MKX with standard MyLincoln Touch™ technology or the no-cost choice of a gas or hybrid powertrain with the Lincoln MKZ, we want to give customers premium amenities with unexpected value.”

When the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid goes on sale this fall, it will have an MSRP starting at $35,180, including destination and delivery. The pricing is identical to the 2011 Lincoln MKZ gas model and below the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, the MKZ Hybrid’s nearest competitor.

Lincoln is the first automaker to offer luxury customers a premium hybrid vehicle with an MSRP that matches its conventional gas sibling.

The decision to offer the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and gas models at the same price point is another example of the Lincoln brand’s philosophy of bringing luxury standard to customers. From standout product design, and class-leading technology and powertrains that deliver top performance and fuel efficiency, Lincoln is changing the game in the luxury market.

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid redefines future of American luxury
The new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a game-changing vehicle that offers modern car buyers all the indulgence of a premium midsize sedan and all the environmental benefits of a hybrid vehicle at an amazing price.

Building on Ford’s reputation as a world leader in electrified technology, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses the company’s second-generation hybrid technology – the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle
I-4 hybrid engine – named one of Ward’s 2010 “10 Best Engines.” The system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid delivers a 41 mpg fuel economy rating in the city, topping its only near competitor – the 2010 Lexus HS 250h – by 6 mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with more passenger space, more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features.

The following features come standard on the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. They are either not offered at all on the Lexus HS 250h, or are available at an extra cost:

* SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide – Ford’s highly successful interactive technology provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, and coaches drivers on how to optimize hybrid performance. Lincoln takes SmartGauge to the next level of engagement by giving drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the “growth” of virtual small flowers on the system’s right-most screen. Lincoln’s white flowers, inspired by apple blossoms, remain permanently unless long-term fuel economy is reset.
* Genuine wood trim – In addition to their exquisite appearance, the Swirl Walnut and Olive Ash wood trims offered in the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid are eco-friendly as well. The veneers come from well-managed forests, as defined by strict environmental, social and economic standards, and from other rigorously controlled sources.
* Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats – The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery, soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.
* Lincoln SYNC® – The Lincoln-exclusive voice-activated communications and entertainment system provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth® phone, audible text and MP3 player capabilities, Lincoln customers also can access Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™.
* 10-way power passenger seat – The seat is designed to accommodate a diverse group of passengers. Memory functions enable passengers to fine-tune and recall positions.
* Power driver memory seat settings – The driver seat memory feature helps ensure personal seating preferences anytime, with the touch of a button.
* Heated and cooled front seats – This uniquely engineered system delivers exceptional heating and cooling comfort.
* Reverse sensing system – This system senses what drivers might not see behind them and relays an audible alert if objects are near, which increases in frequency the closer a driver gets.
* Keyless entry keypad – This Lincoln-exclusive feature provides secure entry at a driver’s fingertips. A personal combination holds a memory for driver preferences. So if an owner is out for a run and doesn’t want to take the keys along, the vehicle can be opened with the touch of a few buttons.
* Easy Fuel® (capless fuel filler) – This Lincoln-exclusive feature uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on a driver’s hands.
* Personal Safety System™ – This Lincoln-exclusive suite of seven protection technologies work together as a system to help protect vehicle occupants. The system includes dual-stage front airbags and an occupant classification system to sense whether the passenger seat is occupied. It tailors – or suppresses – airbag deployment to help provide an appropriate level of protection. It also features the Ford Belt-Minder® system to remind front seat occupants to buckle up.
* MyKey™ – This Lincoln-exclusive feature allows parents to program a key to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. It also encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.
* Integrated spotter mirrors – The traditional sideview mirrors are designed with a secondary convex spotter mirror in the top outer corner, which provides a view of the driver’s blind spot. When traffic enters the driver’s blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, alerting the driver of obstacles.
* Acoustic laminated windshield – This windshield features a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass, which enhances interior quietness.

“Customers are very enthusiastic about the MKZ Hybrid and we think they will be even more excited to learn they sacrifice nothing to be able to go green in style,” said Felice. “We’re launching a world-class hybrid that beats all competitors, and at an introductory price that is sure to draw the interest of new customers to Lincoln.”

Ford Motor Company

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Wow! Clean! Well not really! This Citroën C3 has such a large windshield no one can complaint except maybe when it comes to washing it!  The “VisioDrive” windshield is a unique feature only the Citroën C3 offers.  Why don’t you participate in the challenge offered by Citroën?  We will put you to the test just like we did with these people.  Are you up to it? Nah!  We don’t think so.  Come on roll up your sleeves, get your water hose, a bucket, some soap and get down to business right now! The new C3 will let you hit the dust with it’s Zenith windshield but no one will succeed, we promise.  Wether you start from the top or from the bottom, from the left side or the right side, it’s so big… the Zenith windshield gives you 80% more visibility and 80% more work to wash it!  The largest and roomier interior in a little car on the market will make you become the car wash specialist wether you like it or not!  It does have the largest windshield but on the other hand also has tinyest numbers when it comes to fuel cunsumption.  Day after day, day in day out, the new Citroën C3 will let you drive in the city or on the highway with comfort and visibility, a lot of visibility, but the challenge is still to “Wash me if you can UK”!  The C3 a master of transparency that can reappear and show a shocking reality…you just can’t wash that windshield!

Article sponsorisé

www.citroen.co.uk/citroen-c3-car-wash

Partage propulsé par Wikio

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2010-07-15

President Barack Obama got his first exposure and seat time Thursday in the Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle with extended range capability during a visit to the Compact Power battery plant in Holland, Mich. LG Chem, the parent of Compact Power, is making the battery cells for the Volt, which goes on sale late this year in California, the Washington, D.C. area, and Michigan.

The Volt has a range of about 340 miles and is powered with electricity at all times. For up to the first 40 miles, the Volt is powered solely by electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, using no fuel and producing no emissions. When the Volt’s lithium-ion battery runs low, an engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 300 miles on a full tank of gas.

The Volt battery pack will be assembled in Brownstown Township, Mich., and shipped to the Detroit Hamtramck Assembly Plant for mating with the Volt. Chevrolet announced Wednesday the Volt battery will have a standard eight-year, 100,000 mile warranty.

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* Fiat North America rewards its long-time U.S. enthusiasts with an opportunity to reserve a special-edition vehicle, the Fiat Cinquecento ‘Prima Edizione’
* Designed as a collector vehicle, each Fiat Cinquecento Prima Edizione will feature a sequentially numbered vehicle identification number (VIN) and unique numbered matching badge
* Fiat fans will be able to select their model build number
* A total of 500 Prima Edizione vehicles will be sold in the United States

July 11, 2010 , Asheville, NC
Fiat fans attending the annual convention of the Club Fiat-Lancia Unlimited were given a special surprise when the head of Fiat North America arrived at their closing dinner and made them an exclusive offer. These long-time enthusiasts of the Fiat brand and vehicles, some for almost 27 years, were given the first opportunity to place reservations and select their vehicle build number for the unique Fiat Cinquecento ‘Prima Edizione’ (First Edition) model. A total of 500 of these collector-edition Fiat 500 models will be sold in the United States.

Fiat fans place reservations for the Fiat 500 "Prima Edizione" (First Edition) at the Fiat Mobile Experience in Asheville, NC.

“The Fiat Cinquecento Prima Edizione was developed especially with the Fiat fans in mind,” said Laura Soave, Head of Fiat North America, who personally presented the opportunity to the Fiat aficionados. “For over a quarter of a century, the members of this Club have kept the spirit of the Fiat and Lancia brands alive in North America through their unique and passionate support for true Italian design. We really value their loyalty, and the Prima Edizione is our gift of appreciation to these fans on behalf of Fiat North America.”

The Fiat 500 Prima Edizione will be exclusively available in three colors: Bianco (White), Rosso (Red) and Grigio (Gray). These limited-edition Fiat 500 models will be equipped with a manual transmission and will feature an exclusive Prima Edizione badge. Each of the 500 Prima Edizione vehicles will feature a sequential VIN and badge according to production order.

The modern generation of the Fiat 500 will be introduced in North America at the end of 2010 and will offer customers uncompromising safety, fuel efficiency from its 1.4-liter MultiAir™ four-cylinder engine, individualization options, quality and advanced technology, all wrapped in iconic Italian style. The Fiat MultiAir technology was recognized as the “single most innovative engine technology” of the year by the International Engine of the Year Awards panel.

Fiat North America will also offer other Fiat fans the opportunity to reserve their Prima Edizione model, up to a limit of 500, via a special website that will be made available at a later date through www.ciaofiat.com.

Fiat Mobile Experience
The Fiat Cinquecento ‘Prima Edizione’ announcement was made during the national annual convention organized by Club Fiat-Lancia Unlimited, North America’s largest enthusiast club for owners of Fiat Group Automobile vehicles. This year, the convention – commonly known as the “Fiat Freakout” – was held in Asheville, NC.

Fiat North America was the title sponsor of the annual convention, which featured displays of more than 100 well-preserved Fiat, Lancia and Alfa Romeo vehicles.

During the event, Fiat North America debuted the ‘Fiat Mobile Experience’ – a unique display that hosts both a café station and a Fiat brand merchandise store.

Fiat fans attending the convention were able to enjoy complimentary gelato, espresso and cappuccino served by baristas. Visitors were also able to browse through and purchase various Fiat-branded merchandise items in a unique store area, finished in Fiat red and white colors and staffed by Fiat merchandizing specialists.

The Fiat Mobile Experience display is constructed from a repurposed auto-shipping container and will be seen at other future Fiat shows and exhibitions in North America.

About Fiat
One of the pioneer companies in the automobile industry, Fiat has produced around 90 million passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, including more than 400 models since 1899, when the company was founded in Turin, Italy. Some of Fiat’s vehicles have represented milestones in automotive history. The Automobiles business area of Fiat Group encompasses Fiat Group Automobiles (Fiat Automobiles SpA, Alfa Romeo Automobiles SpA, Lancia Automobiles SpA, Abarth SpA and Fiat Light Commercial Vehicles SpA), Ferrari SpA and Maserati SpA. In 2009, Fiat Group formed a global strategic alliance with Chrysler Group LLC.

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