October 8, 2006
Shell Oil Company and Richard Childress Racing Announce Primary Sponsorship
Chase Contender Kevin Harvick Takes the Wheel of Legendary No. 29 Chevy for Shell and Pennzoil Beginning in 2007 in NASCAR Nextel Cup.
Shell Oil Company has announced the brand's return to NASCAR today through a multi-year primary sponsorship of Richard Childress Racing (RCR). Through the sponsorship both Shell and Pennzoil brands will be featured on the No. 29 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS to be driven by Kevin Harvick in the 2007 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup series.
Photo: John Hofmeister, President, Shell Oil Company (right), car owner Richard Childress (center) and driver Kevin Harvick (left) unveil the new No. 29 Shell Monte Carlo SS, which Harvick will drive in the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series.
The company's technological leadership and its innovative products have helped position Shell as the "preferred partner" both on and off the track for some of the auto industry's top companies including General Motors (GM), Ferrari and Audi.
Shell Oil Company is an affiliate of the Shell Group (NYSE:RDS.A) and (NYSE:RDS.B). Shell Oil Products US, a subsidiary of Shell Oil Company, is a leader in the refining, transportation and marketing of fuels, and has a network of approximately 6,000 Shellbranded gasoline stations in the western United States.
Pennzoil(R) is the #1-selling motor oil and one of the most trusted brands in America. Pennzoil is produced and marketed by Shell Lubricants. Shell lubricants companies are global leaders in lubricants and operate in approximately 120 countries worldwide.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:34 AM | Link to this Post
October 7, 2006
American Suzuki Shows Full Line, 'Reggaeton' Concept Vehicle at 2006 South Florida Auto Show
All-New Suzuki XL7 and SX4 Lead Versatile, Value-Packed 2007 Product Line.
MIAMI, Oct. 6 -- With an array of vehicles designed to meet the needs of consumers' active lifestyles, American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) arrives at the 2006 South Florida Auto Show with its full line of exciting cars and SUVs, including the all-new XL7 midsize crossover SUV and bold and functional SX4 compact X-over.
Photo: The all-new Suzuki XL7 crossover blends SUV versatility and safety to increase driver and passenger comfort and features available all-wheel drive and seven-passenger, three-row seating to provide adaptability for active, mobile lifestyles. The 3.6-liter, V6, DOHC engine rated at 252 horsepower with 243 lb.-ft. of torque is matched to a five-speed automatic transmission fitted with manumatic controls.
In addition to Suzuki's full-line of vehicles on display at the show, South Florida auto enthusiasts will be treated to a look at the Suzuki "Reggaeton" Grand Vitara. Designed in conjunction with SiTV, an English-language Latino cable network, the project vehicle reflects Reggaeton dance music, a combination of Reggae with a Latin dance beat.
Based in Hamamatsu, Japan, Suzuki Motor Corporation is a diversified worldwide automobile, motorcycle and outboard motor manufacturer with sales of more than two million new vehicles annually. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, Suzuki Motor Corporation has operations in 125 countries.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 2:44 PM | Link to this Post
October 4, 2006
Mitsubishi Motors launches new Pajero
Global-standard all-round SUV.
Tokyo, 4 October 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today announced the Japanese market launch of the fully redesigned Pajero SUV at affiliated dealerships throughout Japan on October 4. The company has sold some 2.5 million Pajeros in over 170 countries and regions since its introduction in 1982. Pajero has established a rock-firm reputation among customers as an all-round sport-utility vehicle that delivers go-anywhere off-road performance with the high-speed cruising performance and comfort of a sedan.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:57 PM | Link to this Post
September 19, 2006
Actress Roselyn Sanchez Presents One-Of-A-Kind Mercury Milan to Auction Winner in Motor City
Actress Roselyn Sanchez, currently starring in the hit TV series "Without a Trace," presents the 2006 Mercury Milan Voga to Rick Schmidt, winner of the eBay auction for the customized vehicle designed by Ford GT designer Camilo Pardo.
DETROIT, Sept. 18 -- After sharing the spotlight with Latin America's top designers during Miami Fashion Week, the Mercury Milan Voga returned to Motor City where actress Roselyn Sanchez presented its keys to new owner, Rick Schmidt of Ocala, FL. Schmidt is the winner of the eBay auction for the exclusive vehicle that was customized by Ford GT designer Camilo Pardo to capture the spirit and style of the American Latino culture.
All proceeds from the Milan Voga auction were donated to MANA, a National Latina Organization that strives to empower and improve the lives of Hispanic women through leadership development, community service and advocacy.
Mercury is a brand of Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., USA. Ford manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:01 AM | Link to this Post
September 15, 2006
Lucky Race Fan Earns Spot as Honorary Grand Marshal for the Bank of America 500 at Lowe's Motor Speedway
Bank of America to provide fans with greater access to the sport and to personal banking with inaugural race sponsorship.
Past champions of the October race to be honored during pre-race program.
Racing fan and Columbus, North Carolina resident Mickey Jackson, and five-year-old son, Kalob, earned the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deliver the 'gentlemen, start your engines' command live at this year's Bank of America 500. Bank of America today announced Mickey as the winner of the Bank of America 500 Honorary Grand Marshal contest, a consumer promotion supporting the company's title sponsorship of the October 14 race at Lowe's Motor Speedway.
For winning the contest, Mickey earns the title of "Honorary Grand Marshal" of the Bank of America 500 and the opportunity to deliver the race- start command, a VIP experience on race day for him and a guest, including pit passes, seats in Bank of America's newly created, exclusive fan section in the fourth turn terrace at Lowe's that provides access to a private food court, food and beverage vouchers - and a gift pack of Bank of America 500 racing merchandise.
"Never in my life did I think I would have the chance to start a NASCAR race under the lights at Lowe's Motor Speedway," said Mickey Jackson, a carpenter from Columbus, NC. "Standing before thousands of passionate fans and an even larger national television audience to start the Bank of America 500 is any racing fan's dream come true."
Bank of America is one of the world's largest financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk-management products and services.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:33 AM | Link to this Post
September 14, 2006
Chevy - Year in Country Music : Calendar 2007
Gretchen Wilson, who was nominated this week for "Female Vocalist of the Year" for the 40th annual Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, is pictured in the 3rd annual "Chevy - Year in Country Music" calendar, available this October. Wilson is pictured with the all-new Chevy Silverado, coming this fall. This is the first released image from the 2007 "Chevy - Year in Country Music" calendar.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 8:39 AM | Link to this Post
August 30, 2006
Chevrolet Drives “Green” to 2006 MTV Video Music Awards by Going “Yellow”
A Customized Fleet of E85 Ethanol Compatible Chevy SUVs.
NEW YORK – Chevrolet will demonstrate that “yellow is the new black” when it comes to style at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), Thursday, August 31. As the “official vehicle” of the VMAs, Chevrolet will provide a customized fleet of 60 E85 compatible SUVs to transport talent to the Awards telecast at Radio City Music Hall and provide production support in and around New York City.
Chevrolet and MTV are partnering around the 2006 VMAs to help educate viewers on E85 ethanol technology in an effort to raise awareness about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and curbing dependence on fossil fuels. The specialty fleet will be branded to promote the show as well as GM’s Flex Fuel technology, which is at the center of a “Live Green, Go Yellow” initiative. This marks the first time a manufacturer has provided a fleet of E85 vehicles that have been customized specific to a major awards show.
The 2006 MTV Video Music Awards are being held on August 31, 2006 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The show will be available to a potential viewing audience of more than 1.3 billion people via MTV’s global network of 50 channels reaching 481.5 million households around the world as well as through syndication. Its convergent and original online programming will reach the entire interactive community, via MTV’s 43 Web sites around the world.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:54 AM | Link to this Post
August 18, 2006
2007 Mazda MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top
Adding a new dimension to the Mazda MX-5 without diminishing its driving joy.
The MX-5 Miata reinvented the lightweight, fun-to-drive, two-seat category in 1989, and has since become the world's best-selling two-seat roadster. For 2007, Mazda's iconic MX-5 will again set a new standard for the segment with the introduction of a Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT). It provides drivers with year-round comfort and security as well as the joy of an open-top roadster at a truly affordable price.
Even fitted with its coupe-like hard top, the MX-5 PRHT continues to be a light-weight roadster offering a truly fun-to-drive experience, adding only approximately 77 pounds net weight. Some minor adjustments were in order to compensate for the added weight, though, including firmer shock absorbers, higher spring rates and a larger diameter front anti-roll bar.
When the top is down, MX-5 PRHT models can be identified by a fine chrome ring around the grille opening, bright bezels inside the headlamps, a chrome band in each door handle and a white lens on the CHMSL.
Mazda MX-5 PRHT comes with seven exterior colors having two new colors -- Stormy Blue Mica and Highland Green Mica replacing two existing colors. Three interior packages -- black fabric, black leather, and saddle-tan leather -- carry over from the MX-5 soft top.
Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc, located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:32 AM | Link to this Post
August 13, 2006
Volvo Car Corporation Reveals First Production Photos of the All-New C30
The new Volvo C30 will be Unveiled at the 2006 Paris Motor Show this September.
The first official photos of the exciting new Volvo C30 were released today by Volvo Car Corporation. In preparation for the car's global unveiling this September at the Paris Motor Show, the photos come just seven months after the C30 Design Concept was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in early 2006.
The edgy design of the C30 features a unique frameless glass tailgate, a confident stance and the broad shoulders that have become a Volvo design hallmark. The C30 will represent a new segment entry for Volvo. "The new C30 is an ambitious new car for Volvo," commented Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation. "It is a car that aims for a group of young singles, or couples, with intense urban lifestyles. These people prioritize excitement in design and driving characteristics, and this car should suit their varied tastes perfectly."
Global sales of the new C30 are targeted at 65,000 cars annually. Fully 75 percent of those sales are expected to come from Europe, with the largest markets being Italy, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom. Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA), is currently evaluating the possibility of introducing the new C30 to the U.S. market. VCNA, part of the Volvo Car Corporation of Gothenburg, Sweden, provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.
The design of the production Volvo C30 is highly reminiscent of the C30 Design Concept that was unveiled to the automotive press at the Detroit Motor Show at the beginning of the year. The front clip retains its sporty, dynamic character with the aggressively angled headlamps and the low, wide grille. Viewed from the side, the distinct wheel arches and sloping roofline give the new C30 a fast silhouette, which is further enhanced by the design of the side glass. As expected with any modern Volvo, the shoulders of the C30 are powerfully rounded and are accentuated by the highly stylized lighting pattern of the tail lamps and glass tailgate. The available spoiler at the upper edge of the tailgate comes in two distinctive styles.
"The C30 has plenty of muscles in a sporty and compact package," noted Volvo Car's Design Director Steve Mattin. "Anyone who recalls the Volvo SCC (Safety Concept Car) or the classic P1800ES will recognize the exclusive and convenient rear tailgate. The distinctive tail lamps ensure that no one will be uncertain about which car they are following."
Sport bucket seats for four adults
The new Volvo C30 has room for four adults thanks to the two sport bucket rear seats with generous head and leg room. The rear seats are positioned slightly inboard to provide a feeling of space and exceptional outward visibility through the windshield. The space between the seats also makes the thin, visually floating center stack clearly visible through the glass tailgate. The folding rear seats really help meet the needs of the targeted customer's active lifestyle.
The interior program has been designed to meet the C30 buyers taste for personal choices. Even the base program offers the sporty T-Tech upholstery. "The Volvo C30 is a very exciting car with emotional appeal. We anticipate that the C30's youthfulness and dynamic design will catch the hearts and minds of people beyond Volvo's traditional customers," commented Anne Belec, President and CEO of VCNA.
218 horsepower and 8.5-inches shorter than a Volvo S40
Putting 218 horsepower to the front wheels, the new C30 is powered by a turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine that produces 236 pound-feet of torque.
Measuring in at just 167 inches in length, the C30 is the smallest member of Volvo's model range -- an impressive 8.5 inches shorter than the Volvo S40 sport sedan while still retaining the 103.9 inch wheel base, which really pushes the wheels towards the end of the car. "A car that exudes muscular maneuverability must live up to the promise of its looks when you are behind the wheel," said C30 project leader Hakan Abrahamsson. "Therefore, the C30 has a chassis that offers sporty driving characteristics, nimble handling and responsive steering.
Right out of the box, audio enthusiasts will appreciate the Volvo C30's standard 160-watt stereo system. And true audiophiles can choose a Premium Sound system that closely matches the acclaimed system offered in the new C70, with a digital 5x130W ICE Power amplifier from Alpine(R), Dolby(R) Pro Logic II Surround, and 10 loudspeakers from Danish loudspeaker manufacturer Dynaudio(R). Total output for the Premium Sound System is an astonishing 650 watts. Simply put, it rocks.
Volvo's legendary safety is well represented in the new C30
When it comes to safety, the new C30 is a true Volvo. Among other things, it will be available with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), which helps the driver to identify another vehicle in the blind spot at the rear sides of the car.
The front end incorporates the same patented multi-steel structure as the S40 and V50. Combined with airbags and safety belt pretensioners, the C30 offers first class safety. But the C30 wouldn't be a Volvo if it didn't also include such standard safety equipment as the Whiplash Protection System, WHIPS, and a Side Impact Protection System with side airbags and the Inflatable Curtain, IC.
"The new Volvo C30 plays an important role in our push towards a volume of 600,000 cars a year. We are broadening our model program to make it possible for new, younger customers with an intense, urban lifestyle to choose a Volvo with the right appeal as early as possible," noted Arp.
Volvo has been building cars with safety in mind for over 75 years.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 3:27 PM | Link to this Post
July 28, 2006
Cadillac Introduces New "Life. Liberty. And The Pursuit." Marketing Campaign
Cadillac DTS
Following one of the most talked-about marketing campaigns in automotive history and four consecutive years of sales growth, Cadillac is introducing a new marketing campaign that aims to reignite America’s love affair with the brand.
Cadillac Escalade
The new campaign carries the theme “Life. Liberty. And The Pursuit.” It showcases Cadillac’s relevancy to today’s luxury consumers and supports the next generation of Cadillac’s ongoing product renaissance. The new advertising will launch in early August and continue to roll-out throughout the rest of the year.
Cadillac is a division of General Motors (NYSE: GM).
“We have raised awareness and achieved good momentum with the Cadillac brand,” said Cadillac Global Marketing Director, Liz Vanzura. “But now it’s time to put a face on the brand and invite more consumers to experience what Cadillac has to offer.”
This new campaign, the first for Cadillac from Modernista! in Boston, is based on extensive consumer research that concluded that “Life. Liberty. And The Pursuit.” best communicates to consumers that Cadillac embodies the best of America, embraces the brand’s rich heritage, yet is forward looking and modern.
“Cadillac was, is, and will always be the American luxury automobile icon and symbol of success,” said Vanzura. “Our new advertising will showcase the brand’s rich heritage in an approach that is fresh and aspirational.”
“What’s great about the brand is that everyone has a Cadillac story to tell. The brand is ingrained within our culture. We’re looking to capture that optimistic, can-do American spirit in our work” said Gary Koepke, Creative Director & Co-founder of Modernista!
The fully-integrated campaign will include creative executions on national broadcast and cable networks (NFL weekend games, Monday Night Football, ABC & CBS College Football, Ryder Cup), premium positions in several core luxury and lifestyle print outlets (Architectural Digest, Conde Nast Traveler, GQ, Vanity Fair, Food & Wine and more) and an array of non-traditional, out-of-home, interactive and nationwide promotional activities.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:31 PM | Link to this Post
July 22, 2006
Chevrolet Partners With Safe Kids Worldwide And Cub Scouts To Promote Safety
Kickoff event planned for Hendrick Motorsports.
Chevrolet Impala 2006
Chevrolet, along with partner Safe Kids Worldwide, is teaming up with the Cub Scouts to help 6 to 10 year-olds learn about vehicle safety. The program kicks off in Charlotte at Hendrick Motorsports. More than 200 Charlotte-area Cub Scouts and their family members will take part in the special pilot program.
Chevrolet Continuous Safety Tour
The program is designed to teach kids about vehicle safety, but Chevy and Safe Kids will also learn from the experience. As each child begins the program, a short questionnaire will measure what kids already know. At the end of the program, their knowledge will be measured again to see how much information was learned. Cub Scouts who complete the program will receive a wallet safety card and an Automotive Safety patch.
The program looks at several aspects of safety, including proper safety belt/booster seat usage, how to contact OnStar in the event of an emergency, preventing trunk entrapment, and teaching families to never leave a child alone in a vehicle.
Chevrolet and Safe Kids will announce new locations for the program soon.
Chevrolet is one of America's most well-known and successful automotive brands. While Safe Kids Worldwide is a global network of organizations whose mission is to prevent accidental childhood injury, a leading killer of children 14 and under. More than 450 coalitions in 16 countries bring together health and safety experts, educators, corporations, foundations, governments and volunteers to educate and protect families. The Safe Kids Buckle Up program was created in 1996 with support from General Motors. In 2005 Chevrolet became the lead brand in the partnership.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 8:38 AM | Link to this Post
July 20, 2006
RENAULT: Facelift for Renault Scenic
A facelift for Renault Scenic, Grand Scenic, and five-seat Grand Scenic unveiled.
To make sure it meets the needs of every one of its customers, Renault is to
introduce an exclusive triple offering in the compact MPV segment: five-seat
New Scenic and Grand Scenic, plus seven-seat Grand Scenic.
Modernization of the New Scenic line-up takes the form of a number of styling
changes, a choice of new body colours and enhanced interior finish quality,
while the all-new trim levels feature modern, more durable materials.
Renault Scenic Interior
Combining the respective strengths of Scenic and seven-seat Grand Scenic has permitted Renault to respond to customer demand in the compact MPV segment with the introduction of five-seat Grand Scenic which boasts class-topping boot and stowage capacity. Meanwhile, New Scenic's long list of equipment guarantees unrivalled comfort and driving pleasure.
The New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenic come with a comprehensive choice of powerplants, including four diesel engines equipped with common rail technology and four 16-valve petrol engines. The range of transmission options comprises manual five- and six-speed gearboxes, plus proactive automatic transmissions, including the new Renault-Nissan Alliance-developed AJ0 six-speed transmission. Every one of these powertrains combines driving pleasure and environmental friendliness due to CO2 emissions that are amongst the lowest of the vehicle's class.
In addition to its active safety features, New Scenic comes with the full range of passive safety equipment previously seen on Scenic II which was awarded a five star Euro NCAP crash test rating.
New Scenic meets a twofold objective: to maintain Renault's lead in the Western European compact MPV segment and to contribute to the marque's growth across the rest of the world.
Built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance C platform, New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenics are produced in Renault's Douai factory in northern France.
Revised lines and new trim levels
New Scenic's exterior design is a direct evolution of that of Scenic, while its lines have been modernized by a number of styling changes.
The front sports a new grille with a characteristic pronounced "V" in keeping with that featured on all recently introduced Renaults. The lower bumper air intake is wider and the foglamps have been relocated further toward the outside of the car. The new, more modern headlamp design is enhanced by an elliptical halogen or xenon module. The rear lights employ light emitting diodes (LEDs). Two new wheeltrim designs and four new styles of aluminium alloy wheel are available according to equipment level. With the integral paint option, the bumper and door strips are body coloured, while the air intakes come with chrome surrounds.
New Scenic is available in a range of new body colours (Twilight Blue, Extreme Blue, Iceberg Blue, Beige Grey and Goyave Green).
Scenic's interior evolutions have focused on updating and enriching all trim levels, as well as enhancing the durability and finish quality of interior parts, thanks notably to the use of new materials.
An intelligently laid-out interior and carefully tailored cabin space
The launch of New five-seat Grand Scenic underlines Renault's resolve to meet the demands of all its customers.
With a bigger boot compared with that of seven-seat Grand Scenic, this new version of Grand Scenic boasts unrivalled stowage space in the compact MPV segment. In addition to seven-seat Grand SceÌnic's existing 104 litres of cabin stowage space, the room underneath the floor usually given over to the third row of seats is freed up to serve as stowage space under the boot mat, providing 32 extra litres. As with Scenic, five-seat Grand SceÌnic rear passengers benefit from the presence of under-seat drawers.
The absence of a third row of seats has also permitted five-seat Grand Scenic's rear part of the floor to be lowered to provide still more boot space and enhanced rear passenger comfort.
Scenic has always stood out as a benchmark in terms of functionality and seat modularity, and New Scenic builds on its predecessor's acclaimed versatility.
It comes with a long list of features aimed at enhancing the pleasure of day-to-day motoring: automatic parking brake, rain and light sensors, cruise control with speed limiter, GPS navigation, etc. To maintain its leading edge, New Scenic now comes with the Carminat Satellite Navigation and Communication system seen on top-of-the-range Renaults. This advanced equipment incorporates the satellite navigation system, an audio system complete with dash-mounted 6CD multi-changer MP3, hands-free Bluetooth telephone controls and a 6.5-inch (16.5cm) 16:9 screen.
Finally, the rear parking assist system previously seen on Scenic II can now be combined with an identical system for the front on New Scenic.
An unmatched range of engines and transmissions, plus acclaimed chassis
performance
New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenic can be ordered with a comprehensive choice of four diesel engines - all equipped with common rail technology - and four 16-valve petrol engines. The cubic capacity of the diesel engines ranges from 1.5 to 2.0 litres and boast a power output of between 85 to 150hp (63 to 110kW). The 1.9 and 2.0 litre engines are also equipped with a periodic regeneration particulate filter. The four petrol engines, which extend from 1.4 litres to the 2.0 litre turbo, deliver between 100 and 165hp (72 to 120kW).
The transmission range is equally extensive and features two five- or six-speed manual gearboxes plus two proactive transmissions. The latter, known as the AJ0 transmission, is a new six-speed gearbox developed within the framework of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. All these powertrains combine driving pleasure with environmental friendliness thanks to CO2 emissions that are amongst the lowest in this class.
In terms of comfort and handling, New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenic benefit from the same quality of steering and suspension that forged the reputation of their predecessors, while evolutions to the electric power steering system ensure even greater feedback from the road.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:41 AM | Link to this Post
July 15, 2006
GM, Renault, Nissan Issue Joint Statement
Exploring a motor companies industrial alliance.
GM World Headquarters Detroit.
DETROIT -- General Motors, Renault and Nissan today said that an exploratory discussion was held between Carlos Ghosn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Renault, SAS and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Rick Wagoner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Motors, Corp., regarding the possibility of creating an industrial alliance among these three companies. The companies agreed to cooperate in an expeditious, confidential review of the potential benefits of such an alliance to each company and the feasibility of achieving them.
“We had a good discussion today, and are looking forward to having our teams work together to explore our ideas,” said Wagoner and Ghosn. “It is important to let our teams work on this review without distraction and, therefore, we will not be providing further public comments about it at this time.”
It is expected that this review will take approximately 90 days. Following this review, the companies will consider whether further exploration of the alliance concept is warranted.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:42 AM | Link to this Post
July 12, 2006
FORD ROLLS OUT ‘BOLD MOVES’ URBAN MARKETING CAMPAIGN
Ford has rolled out its “Bold Moves” marketing communications platform to urban customers with its newest Ford Fusion and F-150 commercials and advertisements. The campaign recently kicked off with the premiere of a Fusion spot entitled “Dance”.
Fusion “Dance”: Bold Makes It Happen – The 30-second television spot provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of an urban Ford Fusion owner.
Bold Moves initiatives cover both the brand and individual Ford vehicle nameplates and provide a new common creative platform for Internet, broadcast and print advertising at the national, regional and local levels.
Ford Fusion
“Bold Moves focuses on the choices people make every day about how to live their lives,” said Marc Perry, multicultural marketing manager for the Ford brand. “In order to target the urban marketplace and immerse our brand into the lifestyle of these key customers, Ford developed some very distinctive advertising. These advertisements showcase Ford’s new way of thinking in delivering its marketing.”
Ford F-150
Ford’s African-American marketing agency, the Uniworld Group, developed the creative that will position the Bold Moves campaign with urban customers. The urban campaign highlights both the Fusion and F-150 in authentic situations from a local barber shop to a metropolitan nightclub. The ads bring Ford new vehicles to life by connecting with consumers on an emotional level. Love, pride and compassion are among the themes highlighted.
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 300,000 employees and 108 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo.
Bold Moves - Urban
The Bold Moves marketing platform is a key part of Ford’s Way Forward, plan which is Ford’s roadmap for transforming its business in North America and restoring it to profitability. The campaign began on May 2, with the debut of a 60-second commercial on Fox-TV’s American Idol featuring a new song by two-time Grammy winner Kelly Clarkson.
The research that underpins Bold Moves began in the winter of 2005 and was described by Mark Fields, Ford Motor Company executive vice president and president, The Americas, in his remarks at the 2006 Los Angeles International Auto Show:
“When we started out on our Way Forward plan, our first step was a reassessment of what people think of us today. What are our weaknesses? What are our strengths? Our research confirmed for us what we knew in our hearts. Ford’s strength and identity are defined by three words: bold … American … and innovative.”
Fusion “Dance”: Bold Makes It Happen – The 30-second television spot provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of an urban Ford Fusion owner. The spot depicts a confident man driving a Ford Fusion who encounters an attractive woman entering a nightclub in her Ford Mustang. He stages a creative romantic “bold move” to get the women to notice him with the help of a cameo appearance from hip hop deejay and Ford spokesperson Funkmaster Flex. The spot ends with the tagline, “Bold Makes It Happen.” The commercial will air on major television networks such as UPN and BET throughout the summer.
F-150 “Steps Up”: Bold Steps Up – The 30-second television spot provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of a compassionate construction contractor visiting his local barber shop. Known as the respected “go-to guy” of the neighborhood, he decides to make a “bold move” with his “go-to truck,” the Ford F-150, and three of his friends. He quickly creates a plan to renovate the aging barber shop. Throughout the ad, we see the man and his friends collecting and towing the materials they will need to get the job done. The spot ends with a smiling contractor and barber standing in front of the renovated shop and the powerful F-150. The tagline for the spot is “Bold Steps Up.” The commercial will air on major television networks later this summer.
Bold Moves marketing plans are in development for all-new Ford products launching this year, including the 2007 Ford Shelby GT500, the 2007 Ford Fusion with all-wheel drive, the 2007 Ford Expedition and Expedition EL, and the 2007 Ford Edge.
All advertisements will include a fully integrated major market print, radio and Internet campaign.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 8:11 AM | Link to this Post
July 6, 2006
Harley-Davidson Roars into the Future
Groundbreaking Ceremony Leaves Attendees in the Dust.
June 2006 (Medialink) - Harley-Davidson's history has been quite a ride and now the motorcycle company is entering new territory as they kick off the construction of the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee.
The groundbreaking was accomplished in a truly unique Harley-Davidson style: by setting aside the traditional golden shovel and instead, literally "breaking the ground" with a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. At the designated moment, legendary Harley-Davidson dirt track racer Scott Parker teased the clutch of his race bike and gave it a handful of throttle, prompting a burnout and sending the dirt flying off the spinning rear tire.
The Harley-Davidson Museum will celebrate the rich heritage of the Company, the passion of the riders, and the stories of the employees, dealers, suppliers, company leaders, and community members. Once completed, the museum will unite Milwaukee's city center with the Menomonee Valley, reflecting the industrial heritage of the area and of Harley-Davidson. The use of design elements like functional shapes and exposed structures aired with innovative use of green space such as "parking gardens" will make this museum a must-see attraction for visitors from around the world.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:12 AM | Link to this Post
July 3, 2006
Thai Car of the Year Awards for Mitsubishi at Bangkok International Motor Show
Mitsubishi Triton takes Best Pickup Truck, Space Wagon takes Best MPV awards.
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has announced that the company's Triton pickup truck and Space Wagon (Japan market name "Grandis") minivan models both emerged as prize winners in the Thai Car of the Year Awards held at the 27th Bangkok International Motor Show.
Mitsubishi Triton
Triton won the Best Realistic Fuel Economy Pickup Truck, 2.5L Engine Class, and the Best Pickup Truck. While Space Wagon took the Best MPV award.
Triton has found favor with customers for its sedan-like ride, its original exterior and interior design features and the powerful performance delivered by a new diesel engine that uses common rail direct fuel injection technology.
Domestic market sales of the Triton pickup, which was launched in Bangkok on August 25 2005, are growing healthily. In addition, export shipments to Europe (European market name "L200") started in December 2005. As a global strategic model, a full export program to about 140 countries has begun now.
Mitsubishi Grandis Space Wagon
The Space Wagon minivan took the Best MPV award for the second year running, winning the judges' votes for its next-generation minivan qualities that enhance and enrich user lifestyles.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:48 PM | Link to this Post
July 1, 2006
FORD LAUNCHES ALTERNATIVE ENERGY ADVERTISEMENTS
Ford Motor Company is launching a series of TV and print ads promoting energy independence.
The ads promote Ford's innovation in the area of alternative fuels including ethanol-powered vehicles and hybrids. The ad campaign will begin airing nationally in the USA on July 5.
Ford Chairman and CEO Bill Ford appears in the 30-second TV spot.
"At Ford, we're developing new technologies to reduce our country's dependence on foreign oil and help save you money at the pump," Bill Ford says in the ad.
The advertisement also features the Ford Escape Hybrid and Bill Ford's pledge to make 250,000 ethanol-capable vehicles by the end of this year.
"Ford Motor Company has a dozen models that get at least 30 miles to the gallon," says Bill Ford in the spot. "While we can't control the price of fuel, we're innovating to reduce the need."
The first of two print ads features the image of a car's fueling port with the headline: "Now available in regular, high-test and field corn." The second shows two children with the headline: "Two more reasons we're reducing America's dependence on foreign oil."
The new ad campaign begins during a week when the company is generating considerable news about its commitment to alternative fuels. Ford and VeraSun Corporation today are announcing the opening of the nation's first ethanol corridor. The Midwest Ethanol Corridor is a joint project to increase the number of E85 ethanol pumps by one third in Illinois and Missouri.
Bill Ford, along with the CEOs of General Motors and the Chrysler Group, told Congress this week that they plan to double the number of ethanol and other biofuel vehicles their companies produce by 2010.
Ford is a leader in the development of flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs), introduced the world's first hybrid SUV, the Ford Escape Hybrid, and followed with the Mercury Mariner Hybrid.
Currently the company is producing ethanol-capable versions of it's best-selling vehicle, the Ford F-150 pickup truck, the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car. A hybrid version of the Mazda Tribute is expected to debut next year and, in 2008, hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan are planned.
"I’m proud of our teams leading the environmental charge for their innovative, global approach to improving fuel economy, reducing greenhouse gasses and building a competitive business advantage," Bill Ford said Wednesday in a message to employees. "As a result of their hard work, we have a more refined, more flexible and more robust plan that is driven by the customer."
The new alternative fuel ads are part of an ongoing series of corporate advertising featuring Bill Ford. Previous ads focused on innovation and Ford's commitment to safety.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:25 AM | Link to this Post
June 19, 2006
Mitsubishi Motors unveils New Outlander for North American Market at New York International Automobile Show
Mitsubishi Motors has announced the North American market version of the Outlander SUV model at the recent New York Auto Show. Launched in Japan in October last year, Outlander brings a new-feel product concept that marries mainline SUV functionality and design with sedan-like handling and ride. Outlander has enjoyed strong popularity among Japanese consumers with orders reaching about 20,000 units for the new model in the 5.5 months since its launch - well exceeding the 2,000 unit monthly sales target.
The North American Outlander will be powered by a new high performance, low emissions, and low fuel consumption engine together with a 6-speed automatic transmission to deliver outstanding acceleration and high-speed cruising performance.
The new Outlander offers a choice of drive formats: the electronically controlled 4WD system that has received high acclaim in Japan; and a front-wheel drive version specially tailored to the North American market.
Outlander also features Mitsubishi's Sportronic steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to change gear manually without having to take his hand off the steering wheel.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 10:38 AM | Link to this Post
May 30, 2006
Cadillac CTS Wins Owner Accolades, Sales Success
Owners choose Cadillac CTS in AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award.
Cadillac CTS has been a trend-setter in auto design, a hit with consumers and industry experts. Now according to a recent survey, luxury sport sedan owners say CTS is the most satisfying car in its class. CTS earned first place in the Entry Luxury Car category in AutoPacific’s recent Vehicle Satisfaction Awards.
Cadillac CTS Navigation System
AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction Award comes directly from vehicle owners’ input of their experience with their vehicle. In the survey the owners of Entry Luxury Cars found Cadillac CTS to be the most satisfying, in a category including many of the top luxury brands.
Cadillac is a division of General Motors. General Motors, the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide, and has been the global automotive sales leader since 1931.
“Everyone has opinions about cars, but ultimately the strongest voice belongs to the buyer,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “We’re very proud that CTS has been so consistently strong in terms of earning, and then satisfying, luxury car buyers.”
CTS has logged sales increases in each of its four years in the market, helping Cadillac reach overall gains every year in this era. CTS sold more than 61,000 units in the U.S. in 2005, compared to roughly 38,000 units in 2002, the year it debuted, representing an increase of 60 percent over that period. This sustained sales growth is counter to conventional industry logic that says a new car’s hottest sales occur shortly after launch, followed quickly by a plateau.
“CTS is one of the fundamental parts of Cadillac’s renaissance, signaling our return to rear-wheel drive performance and dramatic design,” Taylor said. “It is successful on many levels, inviting new luxury buyers to Cadillac and helping change opinions.”
Cadillac has even extended CTS into the ultra-competitive arena of motor sports. The CTS-V racecar, based on the 400-hp CTS-V production car, won the 2005 Driver and Manufacturer’s titles in the SPEED World Challenge GT class.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:08 PM | Link to this Post
May 25, 2006
Honda Acura Unveils Trio of Vehicles at the New York International Auto Show
All-New Acura Light Truck Lineup Takes Center Stage.
Honda Acura has recently unveiled three new vehicles at the New York International Auto Show. This includes the world debut of the MD-X Concept SUV. In addition, a production version of the all-new RDX performance luxury SUV made its debut. Finally, an Acura powered-race car was unveiled along with the announcement that it would campaign in the 2007 American Le Mans Series (ALMS).
"All three vehicles represent Acura's passion for providing the best in automotive performance and technology," said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. "From the sporty RDX, to the exciting MD-X Concept, to the world-class Acura ALMS race car, Acura is moving ahead of the competition and into the fast lane."
Other Manufacturers who participated include Audi, Porsche, BMW, Ferrari, Lexus, Aston Martin, and Chevrolet.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 2:36 PM | Link to this Post
