January 25, 2007
Read Across America - Actress Gwyneth Paltrow : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Actress Gwyneth Paltrow reads 'One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish' to local school children as part of the National Education Association's Read Across America program in Park City, Utah Wednesday, January 24, 2007. Saturn is a sponsor of Read Across America. Paltrow is in Park City at the film festival to promote her film, 'The Good Night,' written and directed by her brother, Jake Paltrow. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 4:36 AM | Link to this Post
January 24, 2007
DAIMLERCHRYSLER FUEL CELL-POWERED FIRE FIGHTER VEHICLE : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DaimlerChrysler builds first fuel cell-powered fire fighter vehicle. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:15 PM | Link to this Post
Chevy Super Bowl College Ad Challenge : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Chevy Super Bowl College Ad Challenge Finalists (L to R) Kelly Sherman, LouLou Quintela and Anna Pogosova of San Jose State University in California make their final pitch to have their Super Bowl ad concept produced for Chevrolet. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 3:21 PM | Link to this Post
Saturn Outlook Caravan in Park City, Utah : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: A caravan of Saturn Outlook crossover vehicles heads down a trail in Park City, Utah Tuesday, January 23, 2007. The Outlook fleet is providing transportation to film festival VIP guests, and supporting both the National Education Association's Read Across America program and Saturn National Donor Day. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 3:16 PM | Link to this Post
FORD UNVEILS WORLD’S FIRST DRIVABLE FUEL CELL HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE WITH PLUG-IN CAPABILITY : GlobalGiants.com
The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive™ is the world’s first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle with plug-in capability.
PHOTO: The Ford Edge with HySeries™ Drive is the world's first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle with plug-in capability. For average commuters, this research vehicle delivers an equivalent fuel economy rating of more than 80 mpg and emmits only water vapor into the environment.
WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 23, 2007 – Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] today unveiled the world’s first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric plug-in that combines an onboard hydrogen fuel cell generator with lithium-ion batteries to deliver more than 41 mpg with zero emissions. The vehicle is built on a flexible powertrain architecture that will enable Ford to use new fuel and propulsion technologies as they develop without redesigning the vehicle.
“This vehicle offers Ford the ultimate in flexibility in researching advanced propulsion technology,” said Gerhard Schmidt, vice president of research and advanced engineering for Ford Motor Company. “We could take the fuel cell power system out and replace it with a down-sized diesel, gasoline engine or any other powertrain connected to a small electric generator to make electricity like the fuel cell does now.”
PHOTO: Debut Of Ford Edge With HySeries™ Drive: Washington D.C., January 23, 2007 -- Sue Cischke, Ford's vice president of environmental and safety engineering, showcases the Ford Escape Hybrid E85 - a demonstration vehicle that can operate on renewable ethanol-based E85 fuel. Ford is producing 20 demonstration Escape Hybrid E85 vehicles for use in fleets in six states later this year.
The new HySeries Drive™ powertrain featured in a Ford Edge uses a real-world version of the powerplant envisioned in the Ford Airstream concept unveiled earlier this month at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The HySeries Drive powertrain delivers a combined city/highway gasoline equivalent fuel economy rating of 41 mpg. For those who drive less than 50 miles each day, the average jumps to more than 80 mpg.
The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive can travel at speeds of up to 85 mph. An on-board charger (110/220 VAC) can refresh the battery pack when a standard home outlet is available, making the concept a true plug-in hybrid. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:50 AM | Link to this Post
January 22, 2007
2007 SUZUKI AERIO DELIVERS FUNCTION, FEATURES, STYLE : GlobalGiants.com
Multi-format audio system, expressive styling and QuadGrip all-wheel-drive system.
The sporty Suzuki Aerio sedan adds more value in 2007. The fun-to-drive Aerio offers distinctive styling, a powerful and fuel-efficient 155 horsepower engine and available QuadGrip all-wheel-drive system (AWD), making it one of the most affordable AWD sedans on the market. Last year, the Aerio was upgraded with an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers and standard ABS with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). For 2007, new features include standard cruise control and standard automatic transmission on the Aerio Premium.
A Powerful Advantage Under the Hood -- The Aerio is nimble and easy to maneuver for daily errands and adventures around town. The sophisticated, high- tech engine features a zero-maintenance, two-stage timing chain and is connected to the chassis with vibration-absorbing liquid-filled engine mounts.
Agile Handling and Available QuadGrip AWD System -- The Aerio’s independent MacPherson strut front and rear suspension provides capable handling and allows for efficient packaging for plenty of interior space. Suzuki's available QuadGrip all-wheel-drive system offers extra control, comfort and confidence.
Solid Safety Engineering -- Energy-absorbing structures in both the front and rear help to reduce the severity of crash impacts that reach the passenger compartment, while high-tensile steel beams in the doors and roof pillars help protect occupants in side impacts.
Attitude and Style -- As the Aerio was designed slightly taller than most passenger cars in the class, it offers expansive headroom and positions the driver with a high eyepoint and excellent road visibility. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:59 PM | Link to this Post
Grey's Anatomy Star Katherine Heigl At Film Festival : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Film and TV star Katherine Heigl catches a ride in a Saturn Outlook, Sunday, January 21, 2007, during the film festival in Park City, Utah. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:28 PM | Link to this Post
January 19, 2007
DAIMLERCHRYSLER AG NEW MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG and Head of Mercedes Car Group presents the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:18 PM | Link to this Post
World Premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class : GlobalGiants.com
Unique combination of safety, comfort and agility.
Three individual models of the sedan coming to European dealers at the end of March 2007.
PHOTO: World Premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class
PHOTO: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, ELEGANCE, Exterior
Stuttgart, Jan 18, 2007 -- While deliveries of more than two million units make the predecessor model the best-selling C-Class ever, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class celebrated its world premiere at the Mercedes-Benz World in Stuttgart, January 18, 2007.
PHOTO: The CLASSIC line Mercedes-Benz C-Class
PHOTO: The CLASSIC line appeals to those Mercedes-Benz drivers who prefer their C-Class to be fairly discrete about what it can do.
The new C-Class sedan offers outstanding safety, comfort and agility, and stands out through a product concept that emphasizes variety to meet the most diverse customer requirements. In addition, the three individual models have a visibly different appearance from one another.
PHOTO: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, AVANTGARDE, Exterior
PHOTO: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, AVANTGARDE with AMG Sports Package, Interior
PHOTO: Impact Levels: The new C-Class has four independent impact levels - impact forces can therefore be distributed over a large area and away from the passenger cell.
"Through innovative high-performance technologies we aim to raise the bar even higher when it comes to safety, comfort and agility in the segment of compact premium automobiles," says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management DaimlerChrysler AG and head of the Mercedes Car Group. "The new C-Class will thus set new standards when it comes to providing the most sophisticated driving experience in its segment." [GlobalGiants.com]
Individual design of the new C-Class underscores its agility and comfort
The distinctive design of the new C-Class, which will arrive at dealerships in Europe at the end of March and in the U.S. just a few weeks later, is based on the modern Mercedes-Benz idiom. For the first time in a Mercedes sedan, the model variants differ from one another through different front views. The AVANTGARDE model with its centrally positioned Mercedes star is an extremely agile C-Class in a sporty design. For customers who rather prefer a comfortable and elegant ride, Mercedes-Benz offers a truly classic model in the CLASSIC and ELEGANCE lines with the traditional Mercedes radiator grille. "With this design variety, the new C-Class can be tailored even more specifically to what typically are very heterogenous customer demands in this segment. Depending on the line, the new C-Class sets an individual tone in terms of comfort or agility," says Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Mercedes Car Group, responsible for Sales and Marketing.
Newest technology ensures maximum driving pleasure and safety
Technical innovations in the new C-Class include the AGILITY CONTROL system, which adjusts shock absorbers in line with the driving situation and provides for even more direct steering. The model is also equipped with the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system – yet another innovation in chassis technology that offers additional assistance features. The highest levels of safety are ensured by seven airbags, seatbelt tensioners and belt force limiters, all of which come as standard equipment. Also standard are the NECK PRO headrests, which support and protect the heads of the driver and the front passenger within fractions of a second if the vehicle is hit from the rear. In addition, Mercedes-Benz is offering blinking brake lights that help prevent rear-end collisions as standard equipment in the new C-Class. The model is also the first in its segment to be equipped with the innovative Intelligent Light System that features five different headlight settings, and the PRE-SAFE occupant protection system, which automatically activates measures that protect the driver and the front passenger if an accident is imminent.
New gasoline and diesel engines provide for even better performance and sophisticated driving experience
A total of four modified engines, three gasoline engines and one diesel, are available for the new C-Class. With an impressive increase in performance of up to 13 percent, these engines also make a powerful contribution to the dynamic character of the vehicle. Mercedes-Benz engineers paid particular attention to refining the four-cylinder engines, whose output and fuel economy have been significantly improved. The C 220 CDI, for example, now consumes up to 0.3 liters less fuel per 100 kilometers. The advanced V6 engines in the C-Class program remain unchanged.
The C-Class: A best-seller in the Mercedes-Benz product lineup
C-Class models have been among the most popular vehicles in the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio ever since the launch of the 190 Series – the so-called Baby Benz – 25 years ago. With the latest model changeover, the fourth generation of the C-Class will now continue the success story of its predecessor, the 203 Series. More than two million sedans, station wagons and sport coupes have been sold of this model since its market launch in March 2000. This makes the 203 Series the best-selling C-Class model ever. Germany is the most important market for the C-Class, accounting for approximately 30 percent of worldwide sales. The new C-Class will be built at the Sindelfingen and Bremen plants in Germany and at the East London plant in South Africa. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:39 PM | Link to this Post
January 18, 2007
Ford Motor Company’s Chelsia Lau is the World's Outstanding Chinese Designer for 2006 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Lau, Chelsia: Ford Motor Company designer Chelsia Lau, named as the World's Outstanding Chinese Designer for 2006, has been responsible for such vehicles as the Ford Explorer Sport Trac and 2008 Lincoln Navigator.
Chelsia Lau has an eye for design. She is always looking for new trends in fashion, film and travel to inspire her to create some of Ford's most innovative concepts. As one of the chief designers for Ford, The Hong Kong Design Centre named Lau the World's Outstanding Chinese Designer for 2006.
The World's Outstanding Chinese Designer award honors a talented designer of Chinese heritage who has displayed superb ability, attained great achievements within their own discipline, and devoted themselves to the furthering of design. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:50 PM | Link to this Post
2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: SAN ANTONIO, TX. -- 2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty breaks through the frozen Texas tundra January 17, 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:24 PM | Link to this Post
January 17, 2007
REFRESHED 2008 FORD FIVE HUNDRED GETS A DOSE OF EMOTION : GlobalGiants.com
DEARBORN, MI -- What at first glance may look like a simple design tweak is really a whole lot more. The 2008 Ford Five Hundred has gone through a major facelift, and the company says there's plenty that's new under its skin, as well.
With more than 500 updates, Ford's flagship full-size sedan boasts more power, a smoother transmission, a quieter and more refined interior, more standard safety features, and a new Fusion-like look.
"We knew we had a great package to begin with," said chief designer Richard Woolley. "What we wanted was to appeal more to a customer's emotional side. When you see it coming you know what it is, even from a distance."
Introduced at this week's North American International Auto Show, the Five Hundred's most notable change is the front end. Replacing the original grill is Ford's new three-bar grill which was first introduced on the Fusion and Edge. Ford's designers have also taken visual weight off the front end by lowering the hood.
The Five Hundred's new, more horizontal look continues in the rear with new tail lamps and dual chrome-tipped exhaust.
"With a Fusion-inspired appearance, the Five Hundred is really going to stand out on the road," Ford's president and CEO Alan Mullaly told auto show reporters. "The overall impression inside and out is upscale." [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:54 PM | Link to this Post
January 16, 2007
FORD RACING: BP-FORD STARTS NEW SEASON WITH PROVEN CHAMPIONSHIP PACKAGE : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: Ford Focus RS WRC 2007
Reigning world rally champion BP-Ford will launch the defence of its 2006 title on the legendary Rallye Monte Carlo (18 - 21 January) in France next week with a proven winning squad. The team which lifted the FIA World Rally Championship manufacturers' title will begin 2007 with the same core structure firmly in place.
The driver line-up of Marcus Grönholm and Timo Rautiainen and team-mates Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen, who spurred the team to its most successful season ever with eight victories en route to the title, remains unchanged. The Focus RS WRC will also begin the new campaign in the same specification that it ended the 2006 season. However, development of the car continues and upgrades are expected as the season unfolds.
The Focus RS WRC will display a new color scheme for 2007 and a new team logo has been designed to take the team into the future. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 4:15 PM | Link to this Post
January 15, 2007
GM’S NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW INTRODUCTIONS : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: 2008 Chevrolet Equinox Sport
DETROIT – From a sleek, electrically powered concept vehicle that makes trips to the gas station a rarity, to a modern, top-down twist on one of America’s favorite muscle cars, design and technology dominate the General Motors exhibit at the 2007 North American International Auto Show, which opened to the public on Jan. 13.
Photo: Pontiac G6 GXP
To show off this year’s stunning new production and concept vehicles, the all-new, 121,000-square-foot GM exhibit space – the show’s largest – has been transformed into an art gallery-type setting that complements each of GM’s eight vehicle brands and showcases GM’s intention to reinvent the automobile with technologies that save fuel, reduce emissions and promote energy independence.
Photo: Chevrolet HHR Premiere Edition -- Chevrolet debuts the HHR Premiere Edition at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The HHR Premiere Edition features 17" black chrome wheels, black chrome exterior package, a special Cappuccino Frost Metallic exterior color and a special Ebony/Gray two-tone interior. The HHR Premiere Edition will begin production early in the first quarter of 2007.
Photo: 2008 Pontiac Torrent GXP
Photo: 2008 Pontiac G6 GXP.R Race Car
Here is the complete list of GM vehicle introductions for Detroit :
• All-new 2008 Cadillac CTS (world debut)
• All-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (world debut)
• Chevrolet Volt concept (world debut)
• Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept (world debut)
• Chevrolet Equinox Sport
• Chevrolet HHR Premiere Edition
• Pontiac G6 GXP
• Pontiac Torrent GXP
• Pontiac GXP.R race car
• Saab BioPower Hybrid concept
Four vehicles make their world debut in Detroit : the Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept, Chevrolet Volt concept, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu and the 2008 Cadillac CTS. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:31 PM | Link to this Post
January 14, 2007
Renault Products January 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Exception: Renault announces the Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Exception special series, a stylish yet sportslike model with distinguished features such as two-tone leather upholstery, satin chrome roof arch and 17" aluminium wheels. On top of the rich equipment list of the Dynamique trim version, it adds an anti-turbulence net screen and rear parking assistance as standard fittings. Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Exception is being released in January 2007.
Photo: Cycle Renault Volga - MTB
Photo: Cycles Renault Sport Zapping
Photo: Renault Clio Renault Sport 2.0 16 V. Launched in June 1990 in France, Clio is a best-seller in its segment. Clio II, which went on sale in June 2001, was restyled in step with Renault’s new visual identity, launched with Vel Satis. Its safety and comfort features, unrivalled at this level of the range, make the compact Clio all the hallmarks of a grand tourer.
Photo: Kangoo Express: Kangoo Express has rapidly become the leader on the French and European LCV markets since its launch in November 1997. With its convivial design, ease of driving, excellent loading volume/overall length ratio, practical interior layout and low ownership costs, it quickly became popular with small businesses and self-employed people. It has also been a success as a fleet vehicle. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:35 PM | Link to this Post
January 13, 2007
NAIAS Charity Preview: Bill Ford And Wife Lisa : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DETROIT, MI, -- Bill Ford, Executive Chairman, Ford Motor Company and wife Lisa at the North American International Auto Show Charity Preview Friday, January 12, 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:57 PM | Link to this Post
Detroit Auto Show: Wagoner, Mulally and LaSorda Kick-Off Auto Show Gala : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner (l to r), Ford Motor Co. President and CEO Alan Mulally, and Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom LaSorda pose for photographers backstage while waiting to be introduced at the black tie Charity Preview of the North American International Auto Show Friday, January 12, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:09 PM | Link to this Post
Detroit Auto Show: Alan Mulally and Rick Wagoner at the black tie Charity Preview : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Ford Motor Co. President and CEO Alan Mulally and General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner at the black tie Charity Preview of the North American International Auto Show Friday, January 12, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. The show opens to the public Saturday morning. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:05 PM | Link to this Post
Detroit Auto Show: Wagoner, Mulally, Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm, and LeSorda : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner (l to r), Ford Motor Co. President and CEO Alan Mulally, Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm and Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom LaSorda pose for photographers backstage while waiting to be introduced at the black tie Charity Preview of the North American International Auto Show Friday, January 12, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. The show opens to the public Saturday morning. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:02 PM | Link to this Post
Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper receives award for the Chevrolet Camaro : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper (center) receives the Best of Show award for the Chevrolet Camaro from The Detroit News Editor & Publisher David Butler (left) and Editorial Page Editor Nolan Finley at the Detroit Economic Club Luncheon, in conjunction with the North American International Auto Show Friday, January 12, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:57 PM | Link to this Post
