February 17, 2011
Global Light-Vehicle Sales Set Record in 2010 and Build Momentum for 2011
Photo: A view of a Mercedes-Benz car during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center on February 11, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Buckner/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz.)
• Global new light-vehicle sales this year are projected to reach 76.5 million units in 2011, which would surpass the record of 72 million light vehicles sold in 2010, according to J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Forecasting.
If new light-vehicle sales reach their expected levels, this would be 6 percent higher than the 2010 total, which shattered the previous record of 70 million units set in 2007.
“Overall growth in the world economy has been supporting further recovery in auto sales,” said John Humphrey, senior vice president of automotive operations at J.D. Power and Associates. “We’re seeing signals of stability and increased consumer demand for new vehicles as economic optimism increases.”
Photo: Q-Park wins bid to take over 14 car parks in London. Oxford Street is one of the car parks located in the heart of London.
Most regions saw sales growth in 2010, including North America, South America and Asia, with China being a key to growth for that continent. Western Europe was the notable exception to the growth pattern.
Also, for the first time in 2010, emerging auto markets accounted for more than one-half of global light-vehicle sales (51%), clearly signaling the shift of power in the global automotive market that has been taking place during the past five years. That momentum in the emerging markets is expected to continue throughout 2011.
Photo: The REVA NXG Electric Car, Bangalore, India.
• Outlook for 2011: Mature Markets Recover, Emerging Markets Continue to Expand
Emerging markets, including China, India and Brazil, are expected to continue to expand on the 51 percent share of total light-vehicle sales captured in 2010. Overall, emerging markets are expected to account for 53 percent of total light-vehicle sales in 2011, a further sign that these are the key markets that will drive the level of growth in the coming years.
Mature markets, on the other hand, are forecasted to see mixed results. The U.S. economy is expected to be stronger, which should lead to higher sales. Western Europe is expected to be flat, while Japan is expected to see its auto market shrink.
Photo: Thirty one brand new Porsche Panameras are awaiting their flight to the U.S. at the Leipzig, Germany, airport. Having just rolled off the assembly line at the nearby Porsche production plant, each car is carefully lifted, secured and then placed on the 747 cargo plane.
• North America
The outlook for North America in 2011 is positive, with sales forecasted to increase by 11 percent to 15.5 million units — an increase of 1.5 million units from 2010.
• Europe
In contrast to the steady recovery taking place in North America, Europe is expected to see a slight decrease in its light-vehicle market in 2011, with sales down to 18.1 million units.
• Asia
The auto market in Asia will continue to grow in 2011.
CHINA: In China, a country that has seen exceptional growth in its auto market in recent years, sales are expected to exceed 19 million units, an increase of 11 percent compared with 2010.
• In spite of the expected cooling of the growth rate, China will remain the top global auto market by a significant margin — outselling the U.S. by approximately 6 million units — and the long-term prospects for the market remain strong.
INDIA: With the higher income levels and increased demand for new sub-compact models, sales in India are being boosted, particularly in the semi-urban and rural markets. Accordingly, sales volume in India in 2011 is projected to be up 17 percent to 3.2 million units.
• South America
South America’s economies and auto markets have made a sharp recovery.
According to J.D. Power, the major near-term risks to the region include rising inflation and continuing monetary tightening, a sudden reversal in investor confidence, and a possible credit bubble in Brazil, which is the largest auto market in the region with nearly 75 percent of sales.
Photo: A 30 ft. inflatable Carfax Car Fox helps draw customers to Serra Buick Cadillac GMC Showroom in Michigan, USA.
“From a global standpoint, 2010 was a combination of recovery and strong growth in emerging markets,” said Jeff Schuster, executive director of global forecasting at J.D. Power and Associates. “Growth in 2011 is not expected to be as pronounced as it was in 2010. However, 2011 appears to be a stable environment with more manageable growth rates balanced across the world, as the recovery in the auto market will continue in many countries.”
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:46 AM | Link to this Post
February 13, 2011
NASCAR Sprint Cup
Photo: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s Chevrolet, leads Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Toyota, during practice for the NASCAR Budweiser Shootout at Daytona International Speedway on February 11, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR. © Getty Images.)
Photo: Jimmie Johnson (R), driver of the #48 Lowe’s Chevrolet, and his wife Chandra (L) play with their daughter Genevieve Marie on the grid prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series AAA 400 at Dover International Speedway on September 26, 2010 in Dover, Delaware. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images for NASCAR. © Getty Images.)
Photo: Juan Pablo Montoya, driver of the #42 Target Chevrolet, and Clint Bowyer, driver of the #33 BB&T Chevrolet, lead the field to the green flag to start the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series AMP Energy Juice 500 at Talladega Superspeedway on October 31, 2010 in Talladega, Alabama. (Photo by Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images for NASCAR. © Getty Images.)
Photo: Johanna Long, driver of the #20 Panhandle Grading & Paving Toyota, stands on the garage area during practice for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series WinStar World Casino 350k at Texas Motor Speedway on November 4, 2010 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Todd Warshaw/Getty Images. © Getty Images.)
Photo: Tony Stewart, driver of the #14 Office Depot Chevrolet, leads a line of cars during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Price Chopper 400 on October 3, 2010 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Todd Warshaw/Getty Images. © Getty Images.)
Photo: Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson (L) signs autographs during Day 2 of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champions Week at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on December 1, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR. © Getty Images.)
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:57 AM | Link to this Post
January 17, 2011
Car Driving: First Successful Demonstration of Vehicle Platooning
Platooning may be the new way of traveling on motorways in as little as ten years time. EU-financed SARTRE project has just carried out the first successful demonstration of its technology at the Volvo Proving Ground close to Gothenburg, Sweden.
SARTRE (Safe Road Trains for the Environment) is part-funded by the European Commission and is led by Ricardo UK Ltd. and comprises collaboration between the following additional participating companies: Idiada and Robotiker-Tecnalia of Spain, Institut für Kraftfahrwesen Aachen (IKA) of Germany, SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden, Volvo Car Corporation, and Volvo Technology of Sweden.
“This is a major milestone for this important European research programme,” says Tom Robinson, SARTRE project coordinator, of Ricardo UK Ltd. “Platooning offers the prospect of improved road safety, better road space utilization, improved driver comfort on long journeys and reduced fuel consumption and hence CO2 emissions. With the combined skills of its participating companies, SARTRE is making tangible progress towards the realization of safe and effective road train technology”.
Vehicle platooning, as envisaged by the SARTRE project, is a convoy of vehicles where a professional driver in a lead vehicle drives a line of other vehicles. Each car measures the distance, speed and direction and adjusts to the car in front. All vehicles are totally detached and can leave the procession at any time. But once in the platoon, drivers can relax and do other things while the platoon proceeds towards its long haul destination.
The tests carried out included a lead vehicle and single following car. The steering wheel of the following car moves by itself as the vehicle smoothly follows the lead truck around the country road test track. The driver is able to drink coffee or read a paper, using neither hand nor foot to operate his vehicle.
Platooning is designed to improve a number of things: Firstly road safety, since it minimises the human factor that is the cause of at least 80 percent of the road accidents. Secondly, it saves fuel consumption and thus CO2 emissions with up to 20 percent. It is also convenient for the driver because it frees up time for other matters than driving. And since the vehicles will travel in highway speed with only a few meters gap, platooning may also relieve traffic congestion.
The technology development is well underway and can most likely go into production in a few years time. What may take substantially longer are the public acceptance and the legislation where 25 EU governments must pass similar laws.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 10:37 AM | Link to this Post
January 11, 2011
Mercedes-Benz takes off on the first circumnavigation of the world with fuel cell-powered electric vehicles
Mercedes Benz F-CELL World Drive: Around the world in 125 days.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz F-CELL World Drive - 125 days, four continents and 14 countries: Starting on January 30, 2011 in Stuttgart (Germany), three Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL with fuel cell drive will be driving around the globe with zero emissions. The objective is to demonstrate that electric vehicles equipped with fuel cell are technically mature and suitable for everyday use.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz at the NAIAS (North American International Auto Show) 2011 in Detroit. Pop singer-songwriter Colbie Caillat delighted the audience at the Mercedes press conference.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL. With the B-Class F-CELL, Mercedes-Benz launches its first fuel cell-powered electric car produced under series production in the U.S.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:52 AM | Link to this Post
January 4, 2011
2011 North American International Auto Show to Feature 30-40 Worldwide Debuts
Photo: Hundreds of Thousands to Attend 2011 North American International Auto Show. Photo from the 2010 North American International Auto Show. Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: NAIAS attendees will be able to experience the latest in technology in a ride-and-drive format on a track built in Michigan Hall. Photo from the 2010 North American International Auto Show. Detroit, Michigan.
The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) will open its doors to more than 4,500 automotive journalists with an anticipated 30-40 worldwide debuts from automotive manufacturers around the globe.
“We’re rapidly approaching January 10th when the door of Cobo Center will once again open to the NAIAS and 2011 will be another banner year for media, industry and the public alike as they will be able to explore a packed show floor,” said Barron Meade, chairman, 2011 NAIAS.
The public and media will be treated to highly anticipated debuts from exhibitors such as Audi, BMW, Chrysler, GM, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and Volkswagen.
Photo: The all-new Honda Fit EV Concept electric vehicle made its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 17, 2010. The Fit EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for Honda’s upcoming production Fit EV all-electric vehicle, which will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012.
In line with trends of other international automotive shows such as Geneva, Paris, and Frankfurt, the first press day, Monday, January 10, at the 2011 Detroit Show will feature exciting worldwide, never-before-seen products. The second press day, Tuesday, January 11, will showcase highly anticipated innovative technological advancements by auto companies and suppliers.
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“This year, at all the major international auto shows, Electric Vehicles (EVs) would be the necessary point of interest for the governments, the press, the auxiliary automotive industry, and the car makers themselves.”
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 10:09 AM | Link to this Post
December 27, 2010
Portuguese Prime Minister is the First Head of State in the World to use an Electric Car
Photo: Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Socrates at a ceremony in Lisbon where he received one of the first Nissan Leaf vehicles in Europe.
Portugal has received delivery of the first 10 electric vehicles in Europe from Nissan as recognition of the country's pioneering work in electric mobility with the MOBI.E Programme.
The Prime Minister Jose Socrates is one of the ten recipients and will now travel exclusively by Electric Car for his official travels around the capital city. With this Portugal becomes the first country in the world to have a head of state using an electric car for official matters.
Prime Minister, Jose Socrates, said:
"Portugal is extremely proud of the introduction of the electric vehicle. This initiative is only possible due the fast implementation and development of the Portuguese MOBI.E Charging Network, which is considered a leading example to the world of how to roll out electric cars. Portugal is the first country in the world to have a nation-wide smart grid for electric vehicles."
Portugal is the first country in the world to implement an electric vehicle charging network at a national scale. The MOBI.E network, which currently spreads over 25 municipalities throughout the country, displays over 50 charging points already installed growing to more than 1300 normal charging points and 50 quick charging stations by mid-2011.
It is the only truly integrated system in the world, focusing on the user and ensuring open-access and interoperability. Portugal has thus become a living lab for electric mobility, and is well on its way for a more sustainable oil-independent future.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 4:05 AM | Link to this Post
November 20, 2010
Fiat's Small-Car Formula: 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento) at the Los Angeles International Auto Show
New Fiat 500 Brings Italian Style to the USA.
Photo: Media view the 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento) at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.
Photo: Laura Soave, Head of Fiat Brand North America marks Fiat's return to the North American market today with the reveal of the 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento) at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. Featuring a new 1.4-liter engine with Fiat patented MultiAir technology, the 2012 Fiat 500 will be available in three models, 14 exterior colors, 14 unique seat color and material combinations, and carries a standard four-year / 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
The Fiat brand marks its return to the North American market with the reveal of the 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento) at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.
With its Italian styling, functionality, design and technology the new Fiat 500 is said to be relevant for an entirely new generation of drivers.
"The Fiat 500 has always been the right car at the right time," said Laura Soave, Head of Fiat Brand North America. "The new Fiat 500 now brings something truly unique to one of the fastest growing segments in North America, delivering Italian-by-design function, value and efficiency intelligently tailored for our market."
"Like the original Cinquecento a half-century ago, the new Fiat 500 changes the rules of personal transportation and delivers a new sense of individual expression and opportunity. At a time when America is getting back to basics with a fresh awareness of the environment, the new Fiat 500 identifies with today's minimalistic attitude and delivers with state-of-the-art eco-friendly technology, and it is wrapped in world-class quality, craftsmanship and style," added Soave.
Meanwhile, Chrysler Group LLC announced that it has selected 130 dealers to represent the Fiat brand in the United States.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:47 AM | Link to this Post
November 16, 2010
GM Chevrolet Volt is Motor Trend 2011 Car of the Year
Photo: The Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle with extended range capabilities drives through Times Square in New York as part of the Volt Unplugged Tour Sunday, November 7, 2010. (Photo by Emile Wamsteker for Chevrolet).
GM Chevrolet Volt was today named the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year by Motor Trend magazine, one of the world's premier automotive authorities.
"Chevrolet is truly honored to receive one of the world's most coveted automotive awards," said Tom Stephens, GM vice chairman for Global Product Operations. "The Volt team has worked under extraordinary circumstances to produce this breakthrough vehicle."
Photo: A newly installed Chevrolet Volt charging station on the front steps of the GM Global Headquarters in Detroit, Michigan Tuesday, October 12, 2010. (Photo by Jeffrey Sauger for General Motors).
Photo: The Chevrolet Volt Customer Advisory Board members pose with the Volt at the General Motors Milford Proving Ground were they had the opportunity to drive the electric vehicle with extended range capabilities on a closed course Tuesday, September 28, 2010 in Milford, Michigan. Chevrolet selected 15 advanced technology enthusiasts and electric vehicle advocates as the first consumers to experience the Volt every day under real-world conditions during a three-month vehicle and charging evaluation program starting in late October. Advisory board members pictured include (l to r): Eric Rotbard, Brian Wynne, Colin Summers, Lyle Dennis, Robert Becker, Chelsea Sexton, Kris Trexler, Tom Kuhn and Mark Swain. (Photo by Jeffrey Sauger for Chevrolet).
As the world's first electric vehicle with extended range capability, the Chevrolet Volt has a total driving range of about 350 miles. For the first 25 to 50 miles, the Volt drives gas- and tailpipe-emissions-free using electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt's battery runs low, a gas powered engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range more than 300 miles on a full tank.
"We expected a science experiment, but this is a moon shot," Motor Trend editors wrote for the January 2011 issue. "The Volt delivers on the promise of the vehicle concept as originally outlined by GM, combining the smooth, silent, efficient, low-emissions capability of an electric motor with the range and flexibility of an internal combustion engine. It is a fully functional, no-compromise compact automobile that offers consumers real benefits in terms of lower running costs."
The full report from Motor Trend would appear in the January 2011 issue of the magazine.
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"Timely publicity of this Motor Trend 2011 Car of the Year award would sharply augment investor confidence in GM."
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 10:26 PM | Link to this Post
World's Fastest Man, Usain Bolt, Visits Ferrari headquarters in Maranello, Italy
Photo: World record holder and Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt took a break from his training today to visit the Ferrari headquarters in Maranello, Italy and experience a different kind of speed.
Photo: Usain Bolt poses with two Ferraris during PUMA's Bolt Collection Tour. (Foto: Luca Toni/LaPresse).
The World's Fastest Man, who has an admiration for high performance sports cars, was delighted to test some of the legendary cars of Ferrari current range. After touring the Ferrari factory, he got behind the wheel of a Ferrari 458 Italia and a Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:05 AM | Link to this Post
November 15, 2010
Honda to Unveil an All-New Electric Vehicle at Los Angeles Auto Show
Photo: New Honda vehicles are loaded into the automaker's unique fleet of 400 space-efficient Auto-Max(R) railcars outside the company's Ohio manufacturing facility. Including the Auto-Max fleet shipments, American Honda currently transports about 82 percent of its Honda and Acura automobiles across the USA by rail.
An all-new Honda electric vehicle concept will make its world debut on November 17 at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Additionally, Honda will reveal a plug-in hybrid platform showcasing the next-generation of Honda hybrid technology.
Both the electric vehicle concept and the plug-in hybrid platform along with the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle would demonstrate the company's vision for the future of personal mobility.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President and CEO Takanobu Ito will attend the press conference, marking the first time Honda's global Honda CEO has introduced a worldwide vehicle debut during the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Details on the electric vehicle concept will be announced on November 17, 2010 at the Auto Show itself.
Photo: 2011 Honda FCX Clarity.
Photo: 2011 Honda FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (illustration).
At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Honda will also display FCX Clarity, which is a sleekly styled hydrogen fuel cell-electric-powered sedan currently available on a limited retail basis in Southern California, USA.
The FCX Clarity is a key part of Honda's efforts to successfully develop, certify and distribute zero-emissions vehicles. Propelled by an electric motor that runs on electricity generated in a fuel cell, the FCX Clarity's only emission is water, and, according to Honda, its fuel efficiency is three times that of a modern gasoline (petrol) powered automobile and two times that of a gasoline (petrol) powered hybrid vehicle.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:38 AM | Link to this Post
October 27, 2010
Honda, Toyota Dominate, While GM Makes Big Strides, says Consumer Reports' 2010 Annual Car Reliability Survey
Photo: Honda Acura TL 2011
At an Automotive Press Association luncheon yesterday in Detroit, Consumer Reports announced the results of its 2010 Annual Auto Survey.
According to the survey, General Motors has improved considerably, though Honda and Toyota still dominate in the latest predicted-reliability Ratings of new cars. Eighty-three percent of Chevrolets, GM's major brand, now have average or better scores in predicted reliability, up from 50 percent last year.
Photo: Cadillac SRX
While some GM nameplates had been among the least reliable brands in past years, they now rank above some major European competitors such as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Two factors are aiding GM's reliability improvements. First, GM's recent introductions, such as the Chevrolet Camaro and Equinox, Buick LaCrosse V6 (FWD), and Cadillac SRX, are proving reliable from the time they were launched. In addition, GM shed many models with subpar reliability when it shut down the Saturn, Pontiac, and Hummer brands, says the report.
Photo: Chevrolet Camaro
The survey shows that as a company, GM is still a ways from the top when it comes to reliability -- the major Asian automakers, including Honda and Toyota, are still out in front. Among the three domestics, Ford continues to build the most reliable vehicles. Chrysler lags behind both GM and Ford.
Still, as the findings indicate, GM made the most progress of the three domestic manufacturers. Across GM brands (Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC), 69 percent of models had average or better reliability. Cadillac improved the most, rising seven places from last year's ranking. Chevrolet had its best showing in years; 83 percent of models had average or better scores in predicted reliability, up from 50 percent.
Photo: Ford Fusion Hybrid 2010
As a brand, Ford now outranks Mazda and Nissan and ranks just below Lexus. Ford vehicles are tops for reliability in two categories: family cars (Fusion Hybrid) and large SUVs (Ford Flex EcoBoost).
"General Motors and Ford have taken different paths to improving reliability," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports Auto Test Center. "Some of GM's redesigned vehicles have scored well. The company has also dropped many of its below-average models. Ford has put its emphasis on fine-tuning existing platforms and limiting the number of new-model introductions."
None of Chrysler Corporation's models score above average. With Fiat's acquisition of Chrysler, many of its products will either be replaced or redesigned in the near future.
Photo: Kia Sorento
Despite recent safety recalls, Toyota models, including those from Scion and Lexus, remained among the most reliable and earned top scores in five vehicle categories: small cars (Yaris), midsized SUVs (FJ Cruiser), luxury SUVs (Lexus LX), minivans (Sienna V6, FWD), and full-size pickups (Tundra V6). The redesigned 2010 Toyota Prius, hurt by antilock brake problems on early vehicles, scored only average.
Honda and Acura are among the top four brands along with Porsche and Scion, with their models topping five vehicle categories -- upscale cars (Acura TL, FWD) , luxury cars (Acura RL), small SUVs (CR-V), upscale compact SUVs (Acura RDX) and compact pickups (Ridgeline).
Hyundai and Kia continued to do well, with only one model, the Kia Sedona minivan, rated below average. Nissan's mainstream models scored well. Subaru had a good record overall.
Photo: The new 2012 Volkswagen Eos hard top convertible will be unveiled to the public for the first time on November 17 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, with market introduction in early spring of 2011.
All Porsche and Volvo models are rated average or better. But Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are among the worst automakers overall in terms of reliability, indicates the survey. BMW had a bad year, with five of its 11 models scoring below average. Six of Mercedes-Benz's 13 models were below average, and the GLK SUV was far below average. However, the redesigned E350 sedan was above average. Nearly three-quarters of the Audi models Consumer Reports analyzed were below average. Volkswagen did better, with its Golf, formerly the Rabbit, doing very well and the various Jetta models scoring average or better.
The Porsche Boxster has the best predicted reliability score in Consumer Reports survey, while the Audi A6 3.0T and Jaguar XF have the worst.
Findings are based on responses on 1.3 million vehicles owned or leased by subscribers to Consumer Reports or its Web site, www.ConsumerReports.org . The survey was conducted in the spring of 2010 by Consumer Reports' National Survey Research Center and covered model years 2001 to 2010.
Full reliability history charts and predicted-reliability ratings on hundreds of 2011 models, plus a list of what's up and what's down, best and worst models, and a comparison chart of brands can be found online at www.ConsumerReports.org, in the December issue and in the latest Consumer Reports Cars publication, Best & Worst New Cars for 2011, on sale November 16, 2010.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:21 AM | Link to this Post
October 1, 2010
Mercedes-Benz at the 2010 "Mondial de l'Automobile" in Paris
Photo: Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars in front of the new Mercedes-Benz Gallery on the Champs Elysees with the smart car2go edition, the world's first series-production car-sharing vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz is starting its activities surrounding the 125th anniversary of the automobile with a bold look forward. On January 29, 2011 it will be 125 years to the day when Carl Benz submitted his patent application for the first automobile, the three-wheel "Tricycle". In parallel, Gottlieb Daimler was developing the first four-wheel motor car. Thus, independently from each other, the two inventors laid the foundation stone for the modern automobile and motorized individual transportation.
"The invention created by Daimler and Benz changed the world and affected virtually every aspect of daily life," said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, on the eve of the Paris Motor Show in the premiere cinema theater UCG Normandie on the Champs Elysees. "Now we are inventing the automobile for the second time. And the effect will once again be revolutionary."
Along the lines of "Liberte, Egalite, E-Mobilite" Zetsche decribed the role of the automobile in the modern society, the accumulated demand for automobiles in the emerging markets, such as China, Russia or India, and Mercedes-Benz solutions for sustainable mobility.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:17 AM | Link to this Post
September 15, 2010
Porsche Introduces Expressive 911 GTS Model
Photo: 911 Carrera GTS. (Foto: Porsche Cars North America, Inc., Stefan Warter)
Photo: 911 Carrera GTS Cabrio. (Foto: Porsche Cars North America, Inc., Stefan Warter)
With 408 horsepower (hp), outstanding vehicle dynamics and additional standard equipment, the new 2011 911 Carrera GTS joins the Carrera model lineup.
The new GTS would be available as Coupe and Cabriolet.
The 2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS will celebrate its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in early October.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:49 PM | Link to this Post
August 31, 2010
Cadillac Safety Engineers Working on a Crash-Proof Car
Photo: The Cadillac CTS exits as models sporting fashions from Russell Simmons' 2008 Argyle Culture walk the stage at GM Style - General Motors' car studded music and fashion gala that kicked-off the 2008 North American International Auto Show Saturday, January 12, 2008 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by John F. Martin for General Motors)
• According to General Motors, safety engineers at Cadillac are working on a crash-proof car.
• Cadillac is the luxury brand of General Motors and has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902.
John Capp, director for Global Active Safety for Cadillac, says future Cadillac technologies could include in-vehicle Doppler radar to spot obstructions or traffic jams ahead.
Looking even further out, Capp sees autonomous vehicles that can communicate with each other, traffic signals and buildings, pointing to a world where cars may actually drive themselves.
Photo: 2011 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon.
"We see things moving toward a point in the future where perhaps vehicles won't crash," said Capp. "We work on developing advanced safety technologies for Cadillac that alert drivers to potential dangers around them."
"We're evolving those technologies to develop the capability where vehicles will be able to avoid crashes," Capp said.
Photo: A Cadillac CTSv Coupe takes a turn at the Monticello Motor Club in Monticello, New York, Tuesday, August 10, 2010. (Photo by Emile Wamsteker for Cadillac)
Cadillac is already evolving its technology to come closer to the vision of a crash-proof car.
According to Cadillac, Capp and his team of engineers, inventors and futurists have developed life-saving active safety technologies that are already in place on the 2010 Cadillac DTS Platinum, including:
• Lane departure warning - a camera-based lane detection system that warns the driver when he or she leaves their lane without signaling. The camera, mounted near the inside rearview mirror, identifies traffic lane markings and provides audible alerts.
• Blind spot alert - twin radar beacons that detect an object in a vehicle's blind zone and provide a visual warning in the outside side mirror.
• Adaptive cruise control - sensors detect objects in a vehicle's path and slow the vehicle down to avoid a collision.
Chart: Auto technology saving lives. (Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers).
According to Dave McCurdy, President & CEO, Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, "Managing technology is the solution, and that's why automakers developed Driver Focus Design Guidelines to help drivers keep their eyes on the road. Drivers are going to have conversations, listen to music and read maps while driving, and automakers are helping them do this more safely with integrated connectivity technologies." The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers is a trade association of 11 car and light truck manufacturers including BMW Group, Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz USA, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen.
Photo: 2011 Cadillac DTS.
Cadillac is also working on its advertising. It has selected Fallon as its new creative agency of record.
"Cadillac products today compete head-to-head with the best in the world. Fallon's deep, 17 year experience with other luxury automotive brands like Porsche and BMW makes them a perfect fit for our flagship brand," said Joel Ewanick, vice president, U.S. Marketing.
"We look forward to working with Fallon to illuminate Cadillac as the new 'Standard of the World,'" said Don Butler, vice president, Cadillac Marketing.
Meanwhile, Cadillac's Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant has begun production of the 2011 CTS Coupe and started shipping models to U.S. dealerships ahead of schedule.
"We have very experienced assemblers at Lansing Grand River," said Plant Manager Scott Whybrew. "They work hard to make sure each vehicle meets the levels of quality and craftsmanship expected in a Cadillac. We want customers to feel as much pride in owning a Cadillac as we do in building them."
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:38 AM | Link to this Post
August 22, 2010
2011 Jeep Wrangler: Coming Soon
• Chrysler Group LLC has released images of the new 2011 Jeep Wrangler.
"The iconic Jeep Wrangler keeps getting better," said Mike Manley, President and CEO - Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "While retaining unmatched, legendary capability, the 2011 Jeep Wrangler boasts an all-new interior that delivers a host of comfort, convenience and versatility features. In addition, Sahara models now feature a stunning, all-new body-color hard top, for customers looking for a Jeep Wrangler with a more premium appearance."
"New 2011 Jeep Wrangler interior highlights include a redesigned instrument panel and new storage areas with improved ergonomics and upgraded materials. A new lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas boast comfortable touch points, while a redesigned center stack is easier to reach and operate. Heated, power mirrors are now available, and drivers and passengers will enjoy enhanced visibility courtesy of larger rear windows," explained the company. "All-new steering-wheel controls allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping hands on the wheel."
To provide a more premium appearance, the 2011 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited Sahara models boast an all-new, premium, body-color hard top.
Several new Jeep Wrangler colors are available for 2011, including Detonator Yellow, Deep Cherry Red, Sahara Tan, Cosmos Blue and Bright White.
Production of the new 2011 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited began earlier this week at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Toledo, Ohio.
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:22 AM | Link to this Post
August 12, 2010
Jaguar Displays Limited Edition XKR175 at Pebble Beach
Photo: Jaguar today revealed the 2011 XKR 175 75th Anniversary Coupe at Monterey Jet Center in Monterey, California, USA. The XKR is a special limited edition which celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Jaguar name. (Foto: Jaguar/Glen Davis)
During the Pebble Beach Automotive Weekend in California, USA, Jaguar is today celebrating its 75th anniversary with the debut of the limited edition 2011 Jaguar XKR175 Coupe at the McCalls Motorworks Revival at the Monterey Jet Center, Monterey, California. This is the first appearance of the exclusive sports car in North America.
From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world's premier manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars. The company operates two manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom.
According to Jaguar, the XKR175 is powered by a supercharged V8 with 510hp and 461 lb-ft of torque and top speeds raised to an electronically-limited 174mph. To ensure that the XKR175 remains stable at high speeds, a revised aerodynamic package incorporates a new front air dam, new side sills, a new rear diffuser and a larger rear spoiler providing increased balance and a reduction in lift. New 20-inch Kasuga 10-spoke alloy wheels, red brake calipers and Ultimate Black exterior paint adorn the car's exterior.
Production of the XKR175 is limited to 175 vehicles.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:17 PM | Link to this Post
July 27, 2010
2011 Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV)
General Motors today announced the final package specifications for the 2011 Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV).
"This vehicle is 'Unique to the Police Market' and is designed and built to law enforcement specifications," said the company. "The rear-wheel-drive Caprice PPV joins the front-wheel-drive Chevrolet Impala and the Chevrolet Tahoe PPV, making Chevrolet the only brand to offer a full line of police vehicles."
"When we began designing our latest police vehicle, we went directly to our customers and found that they were looking for a rear-wheel, large sedan with a V-8 engine," said Brian Small, general manager, GM Fleet and Commercial Operations. "By announcing the available specs and ordering information now, we're following through with our promise to provide them with the advanced technologies that best serve their needs for comfort, performance and safety."
"Chevrolet's history with law enforcement spans across almost as many years as the brand itself and we're ready to see the Caprice PPV report for active duty," Small said.
• Chevrolet is the leading brand of General Motors. GM is headquartered in Detroit and its largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. GM does business in some 157 countries.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:42 AM | Link to this Post
July 15, 2010
Brammo Announces the Empulse - a Trio of Electric Motorcycles Exceeding 100 mph
Photo: The Brammo Empulse electric motorcycle is capable of 100+mph and a range of 100 miles; deliveries start in 2011. (Foto © Brammo, Inc., Charles Lee)
• Brammo, Inc. announced today it will begin production of an electric sportbike, calling it the "Empulse."
Brammo demonstrated a pre-production prototype today and all three production models of the Empulse will be capable of sustaining 100 mph. The three models will have different battery capacities, all utilizing an innovative proprietary array, the Brammo Power(TM) battery and vehicle management system. The Empulse is available for immediate order and deliveries will commence in 2011.
Craig Bramscher, Founder and CEO of Brammo, said, "Motorcycle riders have been requesting increased speed and range and I am proud and delighted to reveal these game-changing Brammo electric motorcycles. Our customers expect Brammo to design and produce the world's most exciting (and affordable) electric motorcycles and that's exactly what we have done." Bramscher continued, "Today's announcement promises no more range anxiety for Brammo customers."
All three models of the Empulse will be freeway capable and will enjoy a top speed in excess of 100 mph. Each of the three models will offer customers a different average range from a single charge. The Empulse 6.0 is capable of 60 miles (96 kilometers) average range, the Empulse 8.0 is capable of 80 miles (129 kilometers) average range and the top of the line Empulse 10.0 is capable of a travelling 100 miles (161 kilometers) on a single charge. Range of all three models can be extended by travelling at lower speeds.
Photo: Brammo Featured on the Cover of Motorcyclist Magazine.
• The Brammo range of motorcycles will be available globally through select motorcycle dealerships and participating Best Buy stores during 2011.
• Brammo is expanding its dealership network both within the USA and in Europe and Asia.
Brammo CEO Craig Bramscher will be unveiling the Empulse at the 2010 Red Bull Grand Prix at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, July 24th 2010.
Later this year the Empulse will be at EICMA Milan, Italy and at the Macau Grand Prix, China.
Brammo, Inc. is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North America, Europe and Asia.
Source: Brammo, Inc.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:38 PM | Link to this Post
July 8, 2010
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011
Photo: Natascha Gruen and Verena Kerth at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin spring/summer 2011, MARCEL OSTERTAG Fashion Show Bebelplatz July 2010. Foto: M.Nass/Brauer for Mercedes-Benz.
Photo: Mirjam Weichselbraun at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin spring/summer 2011, MARCEL OSTERTAG Fashion Show Bebelplatz July 2010. Foto: M.Nass/Brauer for Mercedes-Benz.
Photo: Vitali and Natalie Klitschko at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin spring/summer 2011. The boxing world champion and his wife were guests at Lena Hoschek's fashion show. Foto: M.Nass/Brauer for Mercedes-Benz.
Photo: Susan Atwell at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin spring/summer 2011, LALA BERLIN Fashion Show, Bebelplatz July 2010. Foto: M.Nass/Brauer for Mercedes-Benz.
Photo: Backstage at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin spring/summer 2011, .DIMITRI Fashion Show, Bebelplatz July 2010. Foto: M.Nass/Brauer for Mercedes-Benz.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin spring/summer 2011, MARCEL OSTERTAG Fashion Show Bebelplatz July 2010. Foto: M.Nass/Brauer for Mercedes-Benz.
Photo: Maren Gilzer at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin spring/summer 2011, MARCEL OSTERTAG Fashion Show Bebelplatz July 2010. Foto: M.Nass/Brauer for Mercedes-Benz.
• The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011 took off to a fiery start under the event tent in Berlin's Bebelplatz.
Marcel Ostertag, who had received the New Generation Award at the 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, was the first designer to showcase his latest collection. Following him were Austrian designer Lena Hoschek, glamourous fashion brand Christina Duxa Couture, South Tyrolean Designer .Dimitri and local brands Lala Berlin and Kaviar Gauche.
The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin is now in its 7th edition. In town to see the presentation of the Spring/Summer 2011 collections were Milla Jovovich, the face of the new Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week key visual, celebrity photographer Miles Aldridge, milliner Philip Treacy, Boris and Lilly Becker, Vitali and Natalie Klitschko, Matthias Schweighöfer and others.
The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin combines a mixture of top international designers and young ambitious new talent. The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin is taking place July 7-10, 2010.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 10:13 AM | Link to this Post
June 9, 2010
IBM Addresses Complexity in Automotive Systems
Automotive Manufacturers Gain Competitive Edge through Telematics.
Photo: By 2011, 45% of all cars will provide interconnected services involving dozens of service providers ranging from insurance, to safety to navigation. In fact, the average automobile contains several millions of lines of code, which help to facilitate this. IBM has collaborated with Hughes Telematics, Inc. to address the growing complexity of designing and managing automotive systems by developing a software platform that quickly delivers telematics services to its customers. (Foto/IBM. Image courtesy of Hughes Telematics, Inc.)
• IBM today announced it has teamed with industry leading manufacturers, Hughes Telematics, Inc. (HTI) and Daimler Fleetboard GmbH, to address the growing complexity of designing and managing automotive systems. The companies have collaborated with IBM to develop software platforms that more quickly deliver telematics services to their customers.
Although vehicles are becoming more complex they are also becoming smarter. The intersection of information and communications technology, also known as telematics, is expected to be a standard feature in vehicles by 2015 according to ABI Research.
• The use of telematics allows vehicles to be connected in ways that are designed to enhance the driving experience for consumers, or increase the operational effectiveness of transportation companies.
Automotive manufacturers are also facing the challenge of having to integrate a growing amount of software, mechanical and electronic technologies across a vast ecosystem of suppliers. Additionally, these technologies need to be tracked and managed as they evolve over twenty-years -- the average life-span of a vehicle.
Further contributing to this challenge, the evolution of automotive control electronics is expanding at a rapid rate. In 1990, the amount of electronics and software in a vehicle accounted for less than 16 percent of the vehicle's total value. Today, that share is projected to account for almost 40 percent of the value of a new vehicle.
Due to this exponential growth in the automotive electronics industry, owning a modern vehicle is equivalent to operating thirty or more computers on wheels. In fact, as explained by IBM, the average automobile now has several millions of lines of code -- more than that of a space shuttle.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 10:25 AM | Link to this Post
