24 Cars blue Sky

Report: Audi TT RS and RS 5 have a high chance of coming to the U.S.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:49:00 +0000

Audi’s very own official press releases say that the powerful Audi TT RS will not be coming to the United States, but Motor Trend’s Audi sources state quite the opposite. According to insiders, the Audi TT RS has a very high chance of making it to the stateside.
Audi figures that a high-performance car like the 250-hp [...]

Audi’s very own official press releases say that the powerful Audi TT RS will not be coming to the United States, but Motor Trend’s Audi sources state quite the opposite. According to insiders, the Audi TT RS has a very high chance of making it to the stateside.

Audi figures that a high-performance car like the 250-hp TT RS could be good for its image in North America. Not to mention a car that can compete with the likes of the Porsche Cayman S with a smaller price tag could lure in buyers.

We can expect the Audi TT RS to hit U.S. shores sometime this fall. Audi sources also said that the RS 5, which is expected to produce around 500-hp, will also make it to the U.S.

2010 Audi TT RS:

2010 Audi TT RS Roadster:

Source: Motor Trend

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Toyota’s Lentz to raise concern about auto parts sector during auto task force meeting

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 06:12:00 +0000

As reported last week, Toyota’s president of Toyota Motor Sales in the U.S., Jim Lentz, will be meeting with Obama’s auto task force this Wednesday. It was immediately confirmed that Lentz will not be asking for any loans and is not trying to influence the Treasury’s decision on the U.S. auto industry.
However, it is now [...]

However, it is now reported that Lentz will be raising concern about the state of the U.S. auto parts sector when he meets with the auto task force, a Toyota source said.

Unlike General Motors and Chrysler, Toyota has not been hit hard by the sales downturn in the United States. Nonetheless, Toyota does rely on many of the same auto parts manufacturers for its U.S. production facilities.

Source: Detroit News

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Lamborghini Insecta Concept is influenced by insect exoskeletons

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

Inspired by insect exoskeletons, the Lamborghini Insecta Concept is a design study of a 2-seater mid-engined supercar designed by Romanian Iulian Bumbu. Bumbu says that the design is also influenced by the brand’s current styling.
“The idea was to create an extreme race-oriented supercar with a style that introduces softer and more organic lines and integrate [...]

“The idea was to create an extreme race-oriented supercar with a style that introduces softer and more organic lines and integrate them into the geometrical style of Lamborghini,” Bumbu said.

The Lamborghini Insecta Concept measures 4,300 mm in length, 1,000 mm in height and 2,000 mm in width. The wheelbase measures 2,650 mm. Bumbu says that the body and panels are made of lightweight carbon-fiber and can accommodate powertrains from the Gallardo.

Lamborghini Insecta Concept:

Source: car body design

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UAW Ford workers ratify contract changes to VEBA funding

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

In a deal that will allow Ford to use stock to fund up to half of its obligations to retiree health care trusts, the UAW members at FoMoCo have ratified changes to the independent Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA)
According to Automotive News, nearly 60 percent of the votes favored the measure.
“Once again UAW members have [...]

According to Automotive News, nearly 60 percent of the votes favored the measure.

“Once again UAW members have stepped up to make the difficult decisions necessary to deal with the reality of the current economy, the deteriorating auto industry as a whole and specifically the negative impact the economic climate is having on Ford Motor Co.,” said UAW President Ron Gettelfinger.

Gettelfinger called for “shared sacrifice” to rebuild the U.S. auto industry. Ford said that the changes will help keep Ford from asking for emergency aid from the government.

Last month, CEO Alan Mulally and Executive Chairman Bill Ford Jr. voluntarily took a 30 percent pay cut to show UAW workers that they aren’t the only ones being asked to take sacrifices.

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Ford Fiesta SportVan debuts in the UK with 56 mpg

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

Ford today unveiled the new Ford Fiesta Van which is sale now in the UK starting at £9,025 ($12,448 USD). The Fiesta Van will be available in three trim levels including an entry-level trim, “Trend,” and the “SportVan.”
Engine choices include a 1.25L 82-hp Duratec 16-valve gasoline engine, a 1.4L 68-hp Duratorq TDCi turbo-diesel and a [...]

Engine choices include a 1.25L 82-hp Duratec 16-valve gasoline engine, a 1.4L 68-hp Duratorq TDCi turbo-diesel and a 1.6L 90-hp Duratorq TDCi turbo-diesel. Ford says that the Fiesta Van can manage a class-leading fuel-economy of 67.3 mpg (56 mpg in the U.S.).

Do you think the Fiesta Van can be a success in the U.S.? Let your voice be head in the comments section below.

Click through for more images and the press release.

Ford Fiesta SportVan:

Press Release:

NEW FORD FIESTA VAN DELIVERS LOW RUNNING COSTS

    - New Fiesta Van range now on sale from £9,025 to £10,780

    - Available with a choice of three engines and three series: entry, new “Trend” and the top-of-the range SportVan

    - Competitive payload of up to 515kg

    - Best-in-class fuel economy up to 67.3mpg

    - Low insurance groups

    - Dagenham-built diesel engines emit just 110g/km CO2

BRENTWOOD, 9 March, 2009 – The new Ford Fiesta Van is now on sale from £9,025. Low running costs make this new entry into the car-derived market a sound business decision. Frugal fuel economy of up to 67.3mpg-, insurance groups of 1E and 2E and a choice of engines and trim levels make it a class-leading package.

Steve Kimber, Ford of Britain’s commercial vehicles director, said: “Fiesta Van is a main player in the car-derived van market with around 25 per cent of all sales. We expect to build on this, as more and more of today’s businesses look to keep their costs under control.

“The van model was an integral part of the new Fiesta product plan and its superior quality really shows. Being competitive has never been more relevant and that’s why Fiesta Van, with the range-topping SportVan, is a great addition to our 2009 line-up.”

The fuel efficiency of the Fiesta Van is best in class: the petrol engine has combined fuel consumption of 49.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 133g/km. Both diesel engines have a combined fuel consumption of 67.3mpg- and CO2 emissions of just 110g/km.

The new Fiesta Van is available in three versions: Fiesta Van, the new “Trend” and “SportVan” with prices starting at £9,025 for the 1.25 Duratec 82PS petrol to £10,780 for the SportVan 1.6 TDCi 90PS with coated diesel particulate filter (cDPF). The addition of the Trend series is set to appeal to a wider group of customers. It is ideal for image-conscious businesses who may be delivering small packages, transporting compact equipment such as meter reading tools or for the site engineer who does not need a large capacity for tools.

Engines

The new Fiesta Van is available with a choice of engines: 1.25-litre 82PS Duratec 16 valve petrol unit and a frugal 1.4-litre 68PS Duratorq TDCi turbo diesel. The top-of-the-range 1.6-litre 90PS Duratorq TDCi turbo diesel is standard in the Fiesta SportVan. The closed-loop coated cDPF is optional on the 1.6-litre 90PS Duratorq TDCi turbo diesel on all series. Both diesel engines are built at Ford’s wind-powered plant at Dagenham, Essex.

Car becomes a van

A payload range from 490kg to 515kg gives customers a competitive option for transporting their products. The rear side windows are replaced by body-coloured solid panels, and the rear passenger seats are removed to provide a load box area of 1,000 cubic litres, with a maximum useable load length of 1,296mm, as well as a maximum load box width of 1,278mm (1,000mm between the wheel arches) and a height of up to 806mm. A half-height composite bulkhead and DIN-compliant tie-down hooks are standard.

New Fiesta Van is equipped with the acclaimed Ford EasyFuel capless refuelling system which is clean and easy to use and also has a mis-fuel inhibitor that prevents the wrong fuel filler nozzle being inserted. This feature is a major benefit to commercial customers, particularly for mixed fleets and vehicles that are used by multiple drivers.

This new model also inherits the best technologies and features from its car cousin including: a chassis designed for a safe and controllable ride under all loading conditions, the new Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) for steering accuracy and lower fuel consumption, and anti-lock brakes (ABS) including Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) is available as an option with all engines (standard on SportVan) and includes Emergency Brake Assist (EBA).

Fiesta Van feature specification:

- EasyFuel capless refuelling

- Three engine options

- Body colour roof spoiler

- Electric door mirrors

- Stereo radio CD, MP3 connection, four front speakers and steering wheel mounted controls

- Adjustable steering column

- Electric front windows

Fiesta Van Trend features in addition to Fiesta Van:

- Front fog lights

- Body-coloured, power folding, heated door mirrors

- Automatic windshield wipers and headlamps

- Auto dimming rear view mirror

- Trip computer

- Driver’s seat lumbar support

- Heated front windscreen

Standard features of Fiesta SportVan in addition to Fiesta Van Trend:

- 1.6-litre TDCi (90PS) engine

- Body colour sports “aero” kit including high intake front grille, rear bumper and rear spoiler

- 16″ five-spoke sports alloy wheels

- Bluetooth hands free and voice control, including multi function display

- Air conditioning

- Sports style front seats

- Leather trimmed steering wheel

- Rear sports spoiler

- Perimeter alarm

- Sports-tuned suspension with lowered ride height

- ESP/traction control

- Driver’s knee and side airbags (head and thorax) and active head restraint

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Blasphemy: Nissan GT-R Wagon debuts at 2009 Nagoya

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

Before we start, just know that there is no such thing as the Nissan GT-R wagon and we’re pretty sure that there will never be. What you’re seeing here is a Nissan M35 Stagea Wagon (otherwise known as the unofficial GT-R wagon with a Nissan GT-R front end swap.
The customized car was on display at the 2009 Nagoya [...]

The customized car was on display at the 2009 Nagoya Auto Trend this weekend.

Power comes from a VQ35DE V6 3.5L engine with a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configuration.

Nissan GT-R Wagon at Nagoya 2009 Auto Trend:

Source: GT-R Blog

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BMW Certified Pre-Owned on track to a record 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

BMW announced today that its certified used vehicles business in the U.S. jumped 24 percent in the first two months of 2009. Sales were up by 19,000 units and are on track to beat last year’s record number of 104,000.
“In the current economic climate, BMW Certified Pre-Owned vehicles have become a significant source of revenue for BMW [...]

“In the current economic climate, BMW Certified Pre-Owned vehicles have become a significant source of revenue for BMW dealers, not only balancing new car sales but also generating additional aftersales and warranty business,” said BMW in a statement.

BMW said that its sale program for 2009 is designed to further increase the share of CPO sales volume at BMW dealerships.

BMW selects models with less than 60,000 miles or that are less than 60 months old for certification. BMW provides warranty for every CPO vehicle for a total of 6 years/100,000 miles (whichever comes first) from the vehicle’s original in-service date.

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Chrysler’s Jim Press: Things aren’t so bad, we’re doing okay

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

For February 2009 sales, Chrysler came out better than its Detroit rivals GM and Ford. Chrysler is now hoping that March sales come out better than February sales. Chrysler President Jim Press said that the company is extending all its February programs through March hoping to improve sales.
“Things aren’t so bad,” Press told AutoObserver. ”At 80,000 [...]

“Things aren’t so bad,” Press told AutoObserver. ”At 80,000 vehicles sold in February, we’re doing okay. We’re not paying dividends or bonuses but we’re okay.”

Press said that while Chrysler isn’t making money on those sales, he is hoping that the media and analysts look at retail sales instead of concentrating on the company’s fleet sales. He pointed at that Chrysler is not making money on those sales, adding that no one is in the current marketplace.

Press said that February incentives looked stronger than its rivals since it had more 2008 inventory to get rid of. He said that transactions for 2009 models “are pretty much in line with competitors.”

Chrysler reported a drop of 44 percent in February 2009 sales.

Source: AutoObserver

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Ford iosis Max concept hints at future multipurpose vehicle for the U.S.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

The Ford iosis Max concept unveiled last week at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, hints at a future multipurpose vehicle for North America while providing a hint at Ford’s new global design language. According to Automotive News, the concept could very well be the basis for the next-generation Ford C-Max.
Of course, the Ford C-Max isn’t sold [...]

The Ford iosis Max concept unveiled last week at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, hints at a future multipurpose vehicle for North America while providing a hint at Ford’s new global design language. According to Automotive News, the concept could very well be the basis for the next-generation Ford C-Max.

Of course, the Ford C-Max isn’t sold in the U.S. but according to the iosis Max project head Patrick Verhee, the production version of the concept could be practical for the U.S.

The Ford iosis Max Concept is powered by a 1.6L 4-cylinder EcoBoost that produces 180-hp and returns a fuel-economy that is 20 percent better than a conventional gasoline engine. It is also equipped with a line of Ford’s fuel-saving technologies including a PowerShift transmission and the new Auto-Start-Stop system that is scheduled to debut in 2010.

Ford Iosis Max Concept:

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Hyundai’s Sonata-based hybrid coming in Oct. 2010, will get different styling

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

It’s been reported for some time now that Hyundai is considering a hybrid based on the Sonata sedan. According to Woong-chul Yang, president of r&d for Hyundai-Kia Motors, the Sonata based hybrid is scheduled for sale in the U.S. in 2010.
Yang told Automotive News that Hyundai’s first full-hybrid vehicle will get distinctive styling and may [...]

Yang told Automotive News that Hyundai’s first full-hybrid vehicle will get distinctive styling and may not be called the Sonata when it hits dealerships.

Yang said that the company “may change the name if the exterior is quite different. People who drive a hybrid like to be differentiated.”

The Hyundai Sonata-based vehicle will be powered by a gasoline engine mated to an electric-motor that runs on a lithium-ion battery pack.

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Lagonda Concept gives first hint at Aston Martin, Mercedes-Benz cooperation

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

It’s no surprise that the reception of the Lagonda Concept by Aston Martin was … well, awkward. Not many liked the design of the concept that is said to revive the old luxury brand by 2012. However, according to Aston Martin Lagonda designer Marek Reichman, said that the “body language is avant-garde.”
Reichman confirmed that the Concept [...]

Reichman confirmed that the Concept in fact shares its platform with the Mercedes-Benz GL, giving us the first hint at a closer Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz relationship. Reichman said that the Lagonda Concept is the very first product of cooperation between Aston and Daimler.

It’s been previously reported that Aston Martin is working with Mercedes-Benz in a relationship that could spawn a hybrid Aston Martin, a full-range of Lagonda models, a possible DB10 and SUV from Lagonda.

Reichman said that with a GL platform, the Lagonda Concept can accommodate a range of diesel, V6 and AMG V8 engines as well as Daimler’s two-mode hybrid system. He said that the luxury Lagonda Concept is also capable of doing some off-roading on rough roads.

So will the Lagonda Concept enter production? Reichman says that so far this is all a test. “We are launching the Lagonda brand with a concept. But typically we have not done concepts that we have not put into production.”

Source: Motor Trend

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BMW working on second-generation EfficientDynmics technology with NASA

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

With help from NASA scientists and some sophisticated technology, BMW is moving forward with its second-generation EfficientDynamics green car technology. According to CAR, BMW and NASA will work together in building what is known as a “thermoelectric generator.”
The technology, which is used to power satellites, will help boost fuel-economy in BMW vehicles by 5 percent says [...]

With help from NASA scientists and some sophisticated technology, BMW is moving forward with its second-generation EfficientDynamics green car technology. According to CAR, BMW and NASA will work together in building what is known as a “thermoelectric generator.”

The technology, which is used to power satellites, will help boost fuel-economy in BMW vehicles by 5 percent says BMW’s head of development Klaus Draeger. A thermoelectric generator converts heat between radioactive materials to generate electricity. When hooked up to a car’s exhaust system, a thermoelectric generator can generate about 200W of power.

“Some of the heat generated by combustion is converted to electric energy which is then fed back into the car’s power supply to feed high-demand systems such as climate controls,” Draeger told CAR Online.

Draeger says that the new technology will make it into BMW cars by 2014.

Source: CAR

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Swiss Gigolo jailed for six years after blackmailing BMW heiress

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

The Swiss man accused of blackmailing BMW heiress Susanne Klatten has been jailed for six years. Helg Sgarbi, known as the Swiss Gigolo, was convicted at his trial in Munich after trying to pull a scam in an attempt to squeeze millions of euros out of Germany’s richest woman.
Sgarbi was also convicted at his trial [...]

Sgarbi was also convicted at his trial for trying to scam three other unnamed women. He has reportedly extracted 7 million euros ($8.8 million USD) from Klatten.

Sgarbi threatened to release footage of their affair onto the internet. He apologized to Klatten in court but did not say where the alleged sex tapes are being kept.

Klatten owns a 12.5 percent stake in BMW.

Source: BBC

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BMW and Daimler to swap shares and boost cooperation

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:21:00 +0000

We’ve been hearing about a Daimler and BMW “cooperation” for some time now. Both automakers have been stepping up previous efforts to share cost due to the current economic downturn. A German magazine, Der Spiegel, is now reporting that the two automakers plan on swapping shares to boost cooperation.
The magazine said that the Daimler and BMW [...]

We’ve been hearing about a Daimler and BMW “cooperation” for some time now. Both automakers have been stepping up previous efforts to share cost due to the current economic downturn. A German magazine, Der Spiegel, is now reporting that the two automakers plan on swapping shares to boost cooperation.

The magazine said that the Daimler and BMW will exchange a seven percent stake in each other. It said reported that the German government has been approached to find out whether it would overrule such a cross-ownership, reports Automotive News.

Der Spiegel said that the two automakers will announce full details shortly and that the move is expected to save the two automakers “several hundred million of euros” in the short term and billions in the mid-term.

There is some fear from the Quandt family which owns 46 percent of BMW. Der Spiegel said that family head Johanna Quandt and her son Stefan fear that Daimler will take over BMW as it did with Chrysler after a much talked about “merger of equals” in 1998.

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2010 Kia Sorento breaks cover, shows front-end

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:24:00 +0000

We recently saw teasers of the 2010 Kia Sorento but the new Kia SUV has now been leaked on the internet. The 2010 Sorento will make its world debut at the 2009 Seoul Motor Show next month along with a U.S. debut a the 2009 New York Auto Show.
As reported before, the 2010 Kia Sorento [...]

As reported before, the 2010 Kia Sorento will be offered with a choice of two gasoline engines and one diesel unit. The gasoline lineup will start off with a 2.4L 4-cylinder Theta II engine and a 3.8L V6 making 270-hp. A diesel version powered by a 2.2L will offer 200-hp and a fuel-economy rating of 33 mpg. All engine choices will be available with a new 6-speed automatic transmission.

Rumor has it that Kia may bring the 2010 Sorento to the 2009 New York Auto Show.

2010 Kia Sorento:

Source: kia-world

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Buick will now share products with Opel, Insignia will become rebadged Regal

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:24:00 +0000

Even though General Motors’ Opel stake is on the line, the automaker will source future Buick sedans from the German brand. Of course if you’re familiar with GM and its product lineup you’ve noticed that for the past two years GM has shared its Saturn lineup with Opel vehicles. However, sources say that future products will [...]

For some time now, we’ve been told that the 2010 Saturn Aura will come to the U.S. as a rebadged version of the Opel Insignia. According to Automotive News, sources familiar with GM’s product plans say that the 2010 Opel Insignia will now come to the U.S. as the 2010 Buick Regal Sedan.

Of course many of you are wondering what would happen when GM sells Opel. Sources say that GM feels it would be in any future partner’s best interest to continue honoring the global architecture-sharing programs currently in place.

GM is expected to cut Pontiac product offerings and make Buick’s lineup focus more on sedans and crossovers. It said in its viability plan that if it could not sell Saturn by 2012, it will shut down the brand.

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Obama’s auto task force to test drive Volt prototype today

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:24:00 +0000

As we told you last week, President Barack Obama’s auto task force will be headed to Detroit today to meet with executives from General Motors and Chrysler. Advisers Steve Rattner and Ronald Bloom will visit GM’s technical center in Warren and will also pay a visit to Chrysler’s truck assembly plant. They will also hold [...]

According to White House officials, the trip will also include a trip to GM’s test lab where the Volt is being developed. GM has also set up a test drive in the Volt prototype hoping to impress the auto task force. We wonder if Chrysler will setup a test drive of their 200C EV.

So far the advisers have spent more than two weeks (allegedly working day and night) holding meetings with industry executives and analysts.

GM and Chrysler are seeking up to $21 billion in additional aid. The two have already received a total of $17 billion in government loans. On March 31, President Barack Obama will decide to approve or reject restructuring plans that the two companies submitted in February.

Source: Detroit News

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Photos: Lot of 2010 Chevrolet Camaros spotted at GM’s Oshawa Plant

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 02:19:00 +0000

It was reported earlier this year that the production of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro had been delayed to March 16, 2009. However, Camaro5 forum member “Elvisuperman” has evidence that production of the new Camaros is well under way.
Elvisuperman writes: “In the lot at the Oshawa plant on the South-West corner of Wellington and Stevenson there [...]

It was reported earlier this year that the production of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro had been delayed to March 16, 2009. However, Camaro5 forum member “Elvisuperman” has evidence that production of the new Camaros is well under way.

Elvisuperman writes: “In the lot at the Oshawa plant on the South-West corner of Wellington and Stevenson there are rows upon rows of new CAMAROS with stickers in the windows! All I had was my camera phone so forgive the quality of shots…I’ll go back tomorrow during the morning and get better ones if I can…”

Well, he did exactly what he said. Elvisuperman went back the next day and got better pictures which you can check out after the jump.

Lot of 2010 Chevrolet Camaros at GM’s Oshawa Plant:

Source: Camaro5

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Ford launches new F-150 SVT Raptor site, simulator now at auto shows

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 02:19:00 +0000

Hoping to build up some interest in its Ford F-150 SVT Raptor before it makes its market debut, Ford has launched a new website (www.fordvehicles.com/f150raptor) for the off-road beastly truck featuring videos, 360-degree views, photos and tools to allow you to build your own Raptor.
Ford will also have a driving simulator visiting auto shows across [...]

Ford will also have a driving simulator visiting auto shows across the U.S. to give those interested a chance to experience going off-roading in the desert. The F-150 SVT Raptor simulator provides real-life experience by pivoting on its four axes with the ability to spin 180 degrees.

Make sure you check that out if you visiting a local auto show near you. You can check out the website by clicking here.

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Web Site - Simulator:

2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor:

Press Release:

NEW FORD RAPTOR WEB PAGE JOINS SIMULATOR IN OFFERING CONSUMERS TASTE OF NEW OFF-ROAD TRUCK

    - Ford F-150 SVT Raptor comes to life online with a new Web page designed to offer enthusiasts a closer look at the high-performance off-road truck

    - A Ford F-150 SVT Raptor driving simulator visiting auto shows across the U.S. gives consumers the opportunity to experience off-roading in the desert

    - 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor is a purpose-built, high-performance off-road truck versatile enough to take on the most challenging desert adventures as well as the everyday commute

DEARBORN, Mich., March 6, 2009 – With a look born in the desert, the new Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Web page is a place enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the experience of driving a truck built to excel in the most extreme conditions. Launching today, the new Web page – www.fordvehicles.com/f150raptor – highlights the expansive features of Ford’s new high-performance off-road truck.

“We wanted to ensure the site is true to what Raptor is, emphasizing it as different and unique,” said Eric Peterson, Ford’s Truck and SUV communications manager. “Delivering Raptor’s unique durability and performance is something only Ford can do, staying true to both our tough truck and racing heritage. We wanted to make that clear through the site.”

Unique Web Site Content

Unique applications on the site, like a 360-degree view, give consumers a thorough perspective of the truck and allow them to get a closer look at the features and functions that make it such a capable off-road vehicle. By clicking over components unique to the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, such as front shocks, engine, design cues and tires and wheels, visitors can learn more about what gives the truck its distinct personality.

Visitors also will get to see the truck in action, with videos demonstrating its capability in extreme terrain. One video showcases Raptor R, the racing version of the production Ford F-150 SVT Raptor developed by SVT and Ford Racing, by highlighting clips and interviews with key players from its successful racing debut at the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000.

In addition to the 360 view and videos, information and photos about the F-150 SVT Raptor will enhance the site. But these aren’t glamour shots. These are Raptors in action.

“There are not a lot of pristine photos. People will see mud and dirt on it, doing the things only the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor can do,” said Peterson. “Most websites have beauty shots, but we show how the truck is actually used.”

Visitors to the Web site also can request a customized brochure or build an F-150 SVT Raptor with the content they desire.

Experience a Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Ride

A high-end driving simulator also is bringing consumers closer to experiencing Raptor in its element – racing across the desert. Touring auto shows across the country, the simulator pivots on four axes: tipping forward, backward, moving side-to-side and going up and down, with the ability to spin 180 degrees. Actual engine recordings from the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor R race truck enhance the experience, while bumps and jolts when the driver goes off-course ensure a realistic ride

Designed using off-road footage, the race course and the desert landscape are projected on a screen in front of the driver. The course gives three unique experiences: a close course with tight turns, a rocky area and an open desert area with tracks to follow.

“If we can’t put people in a Raptor at an auto show, we can put them in the next best thing so they can see what it’s like,” said Brian Bell, Ford’s F-150 consumer marketing manager. “We want people to understand the unique capability of this truck, that it can do things that other trucks just can’t.”

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2010 Ford Escape gets new safety features

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 04:57:00 +0000

Ford today unveiled the new 2010 Ford Escape and the 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid. The 2010 Ford Escape models feature five new safety features including Integrated Spotter Mirrors, MyKey, Rear View Camera System and Active Park Assist.
The standard 2010 Ford Escape models will carry the same engine lineup as the current Escape including the 2.5L [...]

The standard 2010 Ford Escape models will carry the same engine lineup as the current Escape including the 2.5L 4-cylinder option and the 240-hp 3.0L V6. Both will be offered with a 6-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive. The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid will continue to carry the 153-hp 2.5L Atkinson-Cycle I-4 and will be offered with front-wheel or four-wheel-drive.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2010 Ford Escape:

Press Release:

2010 ESCAPE ADDS NEW SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES, BUILDS ON LEADING CRASH RATINGS, ROLLOVER PROTECTION

    - The new 2010 Ford Escape and Escape Hybrid will feature five new safety and driver-aid technologies, including Integrated Spotter Mirrors, MyKey™, Rear View Camera System and Active Park Assist.

    - Escape is one of the first Ford vehicles to feature SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information – helping reduce distractions while accessing important route and safety information.

    - The technologies build on Escape’s 5-star and top pick crash-testing ratings, including the highest ratings from the government and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

    - Escape is the only small SUV to offer advanced roll stability control and side curtain air bag technologies with rollover protection.

DEARBORN, Mich., March 6, 2009 – Ford’s 2010 Escape, the small SUV with the best crash test ratings of any vehicle in its class, is increasing its technology leadership with the addition of five new features that improve safety, reduce driver distractions and aid drivers by automatically parallel parking their vehicle.

The new Escape, in showrooms this summer, will add MyKey™ teen-safety technology, Integrated Spotter Mirrors – both offered standard (MyKey on XLT and above models) – optional Rear View Camera System and SYNC with real-time Traffic, Directions and Information. The new model also will be the North America’s first SUV to offer Active Park Assist, which uses an ultrasonic-based sensing system and Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to position the vehicle for parallel parking, calculate the optimal steering angle and quickly steer the vehicle into a parking spot.

The new technologies build on Escape’s unsurpassed crash ratings – a “Top Safety Pick” award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and 5-star government ratings in all crash tests. The Escape, which Kelley Blue Book editors recently named one of the “2009 Best New Family Vehicles,” also is the only compact SUV to offer standard AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control) and a standard Safety Canopy® side curtain air-bag system.

“The Ford Escape is one of few vehicles that earned both full 5-star crash ratings and a ‘Top Safety Pick’ in the small SUV segment,” said Susan Cischke, Ford’s group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. “These new technologies will help to take the new Escape to the next level of safety and driver satisfaction.”

According to 2008 Ford market research data, nearly nine out of 10 Escape and Escape Hybrid buyers rank safety features – including the road-holding capability delivered by roll stability control – as one of their top purchase reasons.

Technology Transformation

Unprecedented for a carryover model, the Ford Escape’s technological makeover demonstrates Ford’s broader efforts to quickly and efficiently introduce new features along the consumer electronics industry’s development cycles measured in months.

“Our vision with SYNC, MyKey and other new technologies is to be a technology leader, making it affordable for millions – just as Ford has done with safety and fuel-saving technologies,” said Doug VanDagens, director of Ford’s Connected Services Organization.. “We are a car company that through market-driven, customer-focused innovation is learning to think and act like an electronics company, leveraging partnerships with fresh technology leaders.”

The 2010 Escape will feature:

Integrated Spotter Mirror (standard) – a consumer-friendly, affordable blind spot technology that consists of an outside rearview mirror designed with a secondary convex spotter in the top outer corner, which is aimed exclusively at 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, helping provide the driver broader peripheral view.

MyKey (standard) – allows owners to program a key that can limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume. MyKey also encourages safety-belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 miles per hour. This feature is standard on Escape models featuring a message center cluster, including XLT and above.

Rear View Camera System – uses an exterior camera embedded in the rear of the vehicle that sends images to a video display in the rearview mirror or the navigation system screen to help enhance visibility directly behind the vehicle when it is in reverse. Ford is leveraging the affordability of high-quality video cameras to widely offer the technology with navigation systems.

Active Park Assist – uses an ultrasonic-based sensing system and Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to position the vehicle for parallel parking, calculate the optimal steering angle and quickly steer the vehicle into a parking spot. The technology is a major leap forward in speed and ease of use compared with the camera-reliant systems offered by competitors. Ford’s system requires less driver interaction and reduces the risk of selecting a parking spot that is too tight. Ford’s Active Park Assist also works in downhill parking situations, unlike competing systems.

SYNC – Ford is expanding its connectivity leadership by introducing exclusive new SYNC real-time information features. The new Escape is one of the first vehicles to introduce this innovation – SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information – which leverages industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology, and a customer’s Bluetooth-capable mobile phone. SYNC’s new services provide simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports, and weather.

A recent study shows that SYNC’s hands-free system significantly reduces the level of distraction when drivers select a phone number or choose a song on their MP3 player compared with the same operations performed with hand-held cell phones and music players.

“We know people want to stay connected in their vehicles, so Ford is continuing to deliver that connectivity for them responsibly and safely,” says Susan Cischke, Ford’s group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. “Our SYNC research backs up what most of us instinctively know – that it is better while driving to place a call using a voice interface than dialing manually, because you can keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.”

Safety Standard

The 2010 Ford Escape’s standard safety technologies also include:

    - AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control) – the world’s only system with a gyroscopic sensor that actively measures and helps prevent both side-to-side “yaw” and roll movements

    - Safety Canopy™ – a side air curtain technology offering protection for the first and second seating rows, and helps provide rollover and ejection protection with extended deployment in rollovers

    - Personal Safety System® – a suite of seven safety technologies, including new dual-stage front air bags for the driver and front-seat passenger, side air bags and a front passenger sensor system

    - Tire Pressure Monitoring System – alerts drivers when tire pressure is low. Properly inflated tires not only are important for safety – they also can help improve fuel economy.

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Chrysler’s SRT operation won’t get the ax

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 04:56:00 +0000

While General Motors is disbanding its High Performance Vehicle Operations to focus more on mass-produced cars and Ford continues its SVT operations, Chrysler has confirmed that is SRT department will not get the cut.
“SRT is sticking around and we have to make final calls on the lineup,” said Chrysler’s vice president for global product planning, Steve [...]

“SRT is sticking around and we have to make final calls on the lineup,” said Chrysler’s vice president for global product planning, Steve Bartoli. “We are big fans of SRT, what it does for us and our customers.”

Bartoli would not comment on what Chrysler model SRT is currently working on but said that the division “will weather the storm” and “will not sit around and await fate” He said that the department is currently working on a sedan.

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8:

Source: Red Letter Dodge (via Inside Line)

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Maserati Quattroporte Centurion for American Express Black Card holders

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 21:37:00 +0000

The Centurion Card, known as the Black Card, is a credit card issued by American Express to the very elite. To become a Black Card holder, one must meet a strict criteria by American Express and must pay an annual and initiation fee. It comes with a lot of benefits, which now includes a limited-edition [...]

Unveiled at Forbes House in London to an exclusive audience of Black Card holders, the Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion special series is exclusively built to order. The model is finished in metallic Nero Carbonio (carbon black) with a Bianco Polare (polar white) Poltrona Frau leather interior with embossed Centurion logo on the headrests. It also has a bespoke numbered plaque, titanium colored trim and 20-inch wheels.

Power comes from a 4.2L V8 making 400-hp allowing Black Card holders to go from 0 to 62 mph in 5.6 seconds with a top speed of 167 mph. There is also a Quattroporte for Centurion 4.7 which is powered by a 430-hp allowing for a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.4 seconds.

Pricing starts at £88,315 ($124,352 USD) for the Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.2 and £94,185 ($132,617) for the Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.7.

Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion:

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BMW: Project i vehicles will be ‘premium-cars’

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 21:37:00 +0000

According to Project i boss Dr. Ulrich Karnz, BMW’s Project i will develop vehicles for those that can afford premium vehicle. Project i is BMW’s strategy to develop compact electric-vehicles for big cities like London, New York, Tokyo and Shanghai. The 515 electric MINI E models currently being tested are the foundation of future Project [...]

“These vehicles will be premium vehicles,” Kranz told CAR at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. “They will not be Tata Nano rivals – no way! We can and will only build premium cars.”

Kranz said that BMW has yet to decide whether the cars will wear a BMW badge or create another brand for the fuel-efficient premium vehicles. He said that the cars will initially be built in Germany but production in other markets is possible.

“They will be built by BMW in BMW factories – we wouldn’t consider outsourcing production to a third party,” Karnz said.

First Drive: MINI E:

Source: CAR

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Auditors give GM substantial doubt, GM talks back

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 21:37:00 +0000

General Motors independent auditor said yesterday that there is “substantial doubt” about the company’s viability plan, outlining a number of scenarios that could lead to a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.
GM is currently waiting on hearing back from the government on a request of up to $16.6 billion in federal aid. Top executives said yesterday that if GM doesn’t [...]

GM is currently waiting on hearing back from the government on a request of up to $16.6 billion in federal aid. Top executives said yesterday that if GM doesn’t receive $2 billion by the end of this month, it will run out of cash. They said the company needs another $2.6 billion in April to stay afloat.

The auditor rating of “substantial doubt” has led to some very scary headlines for GM, but the executives are talking back. CFO Ray Young said that GM is very carefully monitoring its global liquidity. The Detroit automaker lost $30.9 billion last year and ended 2008 with $14 billion in cash. That is about $3 billion more it needed to pay all of its bills.

Young said that the U.S. Treasury has not hinted on whether they will provide additional funding.

Steve Rattner and Ron Bloom, advisers to Obama’s auto task force will be heading to Detroit on Monday to meet with GM, Ford and Chrysler executives. The two will have a hand in helping the U.S. Treasury decide whether GM and Chrysler should get another $21.6 billion in aid.

Yesterday, Steve Harris, Vice President of Global Communications, also wrote on GM’s Fast Lane Blog about the matter. You should read it if you’re interested in GM’s future. Click here to read it.

Source: Detroit News

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Mitsubishi bringing new plug-in hybrid concept to Tokyo in Oct.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:05:00 +0000

While the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show is still far off, Mitsubishi has announced that it will unveil a new plug-in concept in Japan that will be based on an upgraded version of the Concept cX. Following the i MiEV, the new concept its Mitsubishi’s next step in its green strategy.
According to AutoCar, the new concept [...]

According to AutoCar, the new concept has been re-badged as the zC and hints at a future model that will compete with the production Nissan Qazana recently seen at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

Sources familiar with the project said that the production version of the zC has a rear end that resembles the Lance Sportback with raised ground clearance. The production model, which is still three years away, will be built using the GS platform from the Lancer and Outlander.

Source: AutoCar

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