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Photo: Co-CEOs Richard & Tim Smucker welcome Folgers into the Smucker family of brands. (The J.M. Smucker Company)
The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM) and The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) announced today the signing of a definitive agreement to merge the Folgers coffee business ("Folgers") into The J. M. Smucker Company in an all-stock reverse Morris Trust transaction valued at approximately $3.3 billion, including the assumption of an estimated $350 million of Folgers debt. As part of the transaction, Smucker will issue a one-time special dividend of $5 per share to Smucker shareholders as of the record date, prior to the merger, a clear indication of the strength of the combined businesses. Following this one-time special dividend, P&G shareholders will receive approximately 53.5 percent of Smucker in a tax-free stock-for-stock merger.
Folgers is the leading producer of retail packaged coffee products in the United States with a 150 year history. Folgers' broad portfolio of products are sold primarily under its flagship Folgers(R) brand. This brand joins a widely recognized portfolio of brands that include Smucker's(R), Jif(R), Crisco(R), Pillsbury(R), Eagle Brand(R), Hungry Jack(R), Robin Hood(R) and Bick's(R). The proposed transaction creates a powerful portfolio of brands and an even stronger Smucker Company with annual sales approaching $5 billion, and greater scale that will benefit all of its businesses. With the addition of Folgers, the total size of the categories in which Smucker participates increases to approximately $15 billion as compared to $1 billion in 2002. The addition of Folgers, a billion dollar brand, is consistent with Smucker's strategy to own and market number one food brands in North America.
"Folgers is a perfect strategic fit within our portfolio of leading and iconic North American food brands," said Tim Smucker, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Smucker. "Folgers will become our tenth number one brand in North America and will further enhance the high quality, great tasting, diverse product offerings that consumers expect from Smucker. We are proud to welcome the talented Folgers employees to the Smucker Company where brands and people are about more than making and marketing products. We believe the many common values shared by our organizations represent a great foundation for a smooth integration."
Source: The J. M. Smucker Company; The Procter & Gamble Company
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:13 PM | View the original post
Photo: Members of the Maxima launch team hold the banner as the first all-new 2009 Nissan Maxima rolls off the line at the Nissan Vehicle Assembly Plant in Smyrna, Tenn., May 27. 2008.
The first production model of the all-new 2009 Nissan Maxima rolled off the assembly line at Nissan North America's Smyrna, Tenn., manufacturing plant on May 27, 2008, signaling the return of Nissan's flagship to its roots as a 4-door sports car.
Sporting a bold new look, as well as a more powerful V6 under the hood, the "Job 1" 2009 Maxima was driven off the assembly line during a midday celebration attended by Nissan employees and executives.
"The Maxima is an important car for Smyrna and for Nissan," said Greg Daniels, senior vice president, U.S. Manufacturing, Nissan North America. "It's our responsibility to build a high quality vehicle each and every time. Our customers deserve it and expect no less."
Changes were made in three key areas of the seventh generation Maxima. The exterior took on a more aggressive look that imparts a strong, premium presence. A "super" cockpit feel was integrated creating an interior that combines a driver orientation with high quality, roominess and user-friendly technology.
"We set out to create one of the best performing front engine, front-wheel drive sedans in the world," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan division, Nissan North America. "The Maxima delivers on all levels offering the value, quality, and exhilarating performance consumers have come to expect from Nissan."
In calendar year 2007, Nissan North America sold 52,574 Maximas. The vehicles are also exported to Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Guam, and Saipan. In fiscal year 2008, Nissan will export approximately 3,600 Maximas.
Since production of the Maxima moved to Smyrna from Japan on Jan. 21, 2003, the plant has produced 384,303 units as of May 15, 2008.
Source: Nissan North America, Inc.
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:14 AM | View the original post
In order to honour its 175th anniversary, Longines has launched last year a timepiece bearing reflecting its horological heritage: This year the enhanced model of The Longines Master Collection Retrograde is also proposed in a 18 carat rose gold version. These watches, enclosing an automatic mechanical calibre developed especially for Longines, become the flagship model of a collection devoted to highlighting the horological traditions of the brand.
Over the years, Longines has dedicated numerous efforts to perfecting the mechanical measurement of time. A creator of horological movements, the Saint-Imier-based firm has nevertheless also assured that a touch of added refinement always forms a part of its creations. Longines has always regarded elegance as being the fundamental underlying principle in both the arrangement of the watch calibre and in the aesthetics of the final watch. Faithful to the 175 years of its watchmaking tradition, Longines has today realised a synthesis between its technical and aesthetic heritage in the creation of a new flagship timepiece representing its collection of horological tradition: The Longines Master Collection Retrograde.
Photo: The Longines Master Collection Retrograde in rose gold provides this model with 46 hours of power reserve. With 16 1/2 lines in diameter, 25 jewels and a 28,800 vibrations per hour beat, this first-class movement possesses more than enough resources to keep this retrograde model indicating the day, date, seconds and a second time zone on a 24-hour scale running smoothly.
The Longines Master Collection Retrograde forms part of a collection of sober, elegant timepieces, offering retrograde functions (day, date, seconds, second time zone on a 24-hour scale) in a movement with automatic rewinding,
The Longines Master Collection Retrograde combines a mechanical horological complication with simple usage. Apart from showing the time, its functions include a display of the day, set at 12 o'clock, a calendar on the right of the dial, a second time zone on a 24-hour scale to the left and a subsidiary seconds hand at 6 o'clock. These four functions are retrograde: that is, the hands indicating the information instantly fly back to regain their starting position once they have reached the end of their travel.
Source: Longines
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:11 PM | View the original post
Photo: President of Tissot Worldwide Francois Thiebaud, right, presented Indy Racing League driver Danica Patrick with a Tissot PRC100 2008 Danica Patrick limited-edition watch during a press conference at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Premier Swiss watch brand Tissot announced the partnership renewal of its brand ambassador racing star Danica Patrick in Indianapolis Friday, May 16, 2008.
Premier Swiss watch brand Tissot has announced the partnership renewal of its brand ambassador racing star Danica Patrick. She endeared herself to the world when she made history by becoming the first woman ever to win a race in the sport of U.S. open-wheeled racing by clinching her victory in the Japan 300. In 2005, Patrick is the first female U.S. "Ambassador" for Tissot. In anticipation of the Indy 500 and to pay homage to Danica, the watch company signed a two year contract extension with the IndyCar(R) Series Star on Friday May 16, 2008.
Photo: Danica Patrick T-Touch Limited Edition by Tissot. Only 500 available worldwide.
IMS (Indianapolis Motor Speedway), home of the historic Indianapolis 500 served as a fitting backdrop for this unique occasion. Francois Thiebaud, President of Tissot Worldwide journeyed to the United States from Switzerland to jointly sign the extension of the contact with Danica. At that time, he personally presented Danica with her new Tissot PRC 100 Limited Edition watch that bears her name. The watch includes 27 glittering diamonds on a mother-of-pearl dial.
Photo: Danica Patrick joined forces with Swiss watchmaker, Tissot, as the new face of the brand. As the first female U.S. "Ambassador" for the 153-year-old brand, Patrick has been appearing in marketing and advertising. The first ad (pictured above), features Patrick wearing a Tissot T-Touch watch.
"Danica is an exceptional race car driver, athlete and a fantastic role model for both men and women around the globe. We are happy and proud to have her represent our brand in addition to being an integral part of the Tissot family. Danica's determination led to her historic first win and she fits perfectly with the brand's values of innovation, quest for performance and stretching oneself to the limits. It is these common features that produce a truly successful collaboration between Danica and Tissot," said Francois Thiebaud, President of Tissot Worldwide.
The relationship with Danica highlight's Tissot products and the brand. The marketing campaign will continue to feature Danica's image in all stores that carry Tissot products, print ads and billboards.
Source: Tissot
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:42 AM | View the original post
Photos: Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG Edition IWC.
Mercedes-Benz AMG Performance Studio has developed a new limited edition vehicle, the exclusive SL 63 AMG Edition IWC. Limited to a total of 200 units, the new roadster features an eye-catching Kashmir white finish as well as an AMG Exterior Carbon package with a matte surface. In keeping with the exterior appearance, the vehicle's interior is fitted with Carbon matte trim as well as Tobago Brown nappa leather upholstery that creates additional visual highlights. In addition, the vehicle features the AMG Performance package to ensure high class handling. All SL 63 AMG Edition IWC vehicles will be delivered to customers along with an exquisite "Grosser Ingenieur" (Great Engineer) watch from the Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen.
Photo: All SL 63 AMG Edition IWC vehicles will be delivered to customers along with an exquisite "Grosser Ingenieur" (Great Engineer) watch from the renowned Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen.
Mercedes-AMG has been collaborating with the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen since 2004.
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:17 PM | View the original post
Photo: 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid.
At Auto China 2008, this year's leading auto show in China, which ran from April 20 through April 28 in Beijing, General Motors introduced the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid (the world's first fuel-saving hybrid applied to a large luxury SUV).
"Escalade, already the sales and style leader among large luxury SUVs, now adds the desirability of a fuel-saving, technically advanced hybrid system," said Jim Taylor, Cadillac General Manager. "The arrival of the Escalade Hybrid means that consumers can now use less fossil fuel, reduce emissions and still enjoy the benefits of a full-size luxury SUV."
No other manufacturer offers a hybrid than can seat eight luxuriously while simultaneously carrying or trailering lots of cargo comfortably. And no hybrid delivers the dramatic presence that is synonymous with the Escalade, said Taylor.
According to GM, the key to the Escalade's 2-Mode hybrid system is that the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.
The Escalade's 2-Mode Hybrid system allows it to return exceptional fuel economy in both city and highway while delivering the capabilities of a true luxury SUV. In city driving, this advanced hybrid power system enables the Escalade to launch and drive low speeds on electricity alone. As additional power is demanded, the system blends output from the battery and gas engine smoothly.
Photo: Chevrolet Camaro Bumble Bee takes the stage with models wearing fashions.
Before the opening of Auto China 2008, GM introduced its lineup of E-Flex concept vehicles at GM Premiere Night on April 19. The unique products that were shown include Chevrolet Volt and Opel Flextreme, as well as the Chevrolet Camaro, which played the role of Bumblebee in the movie "Transformers."
Photo: The new Buick Invicta show car made its world debut at a special event prior to the start of Auto China 2008 in Beijing, China on Saturday, April 19, 2008. The four-door midsize sedan with a coupe-like roofline presents bold direction for Buick's new generation of vehicles in the world's two biggest automotive markets - the United States and China. (Photo by Natalie Behring for General Motors) (China)
General Motors Corp. and its Chinese joint ventures highlighted their achievements in design and technology at Auto China 2008. In this context, the GM China family displayed a selection of models that are currently being sold by GM and its joint ventures in China or will soon enter the market.
Photo: 2008 Buick Enclave CXL. (China)
Buick showcased its freshened lineup, led by the new LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid, which will go on sale in advance of this summer's Beijing Olympic Games, and the Buick Enclave luxury crossover from North America. Buick's auto show lineup also includes the Park Avenue and non-hybrid LaCrosse premium sedans, the brand's best-selling Excelle lower-medium sedan, the HRV sport hatchback and the popular GL8 executive wagon.
Cadillac was represented by its full lineup of luxury models, starting with the all-new CTS luxury sedan and the China-made SLS luxury business sedan. Making its domestic debut at Auto China 2008 was the Escalade 2-Mode Hybrid. The non-hybrid Escalade SUV, SRX luxury utility vehicle and XLR luxury roadster round out the Cadillac display.
Making its debut from Chevrolet on the GM stand was the new Aveo hatchback, which is powered by an S-TEC II 1.2-liter engine. It is joined by its Chevrolet siblings, the latest edition of the Spark mini-car, the Lova compact sedan, the Captiva SUV and the new Epica intermediate sedan.
Opel had brought to China its new Astra notchback, which was launched at Auto China 2008, along with the Astra TwinTop convertible, Astra GTC Panorama sedan and Zafira MTA. Saab, GM's premium brand from Sweden, is showcasing its Turbo X, 900, 9-5 Aero and three 9-3 family members: the 9-3 Convertible, 9-3 Sporthatch and 9-3 Aero.
Among the vehicles of the future shown on the GM family's stand was the Buick Invicta. Designed collaboratively by GM's design centers in Warren, Michigan, and Shanghai, the Invicta presents a bold direction for Buick's new generation of vehicles to be built in the United States and China, the world's two largest vehicle markets.
Source: GM
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:22 AM | View the original post
The Longines Conquest is the quintessential expression of the brand's sporting elegance. Special attention has been paid to the aesthetics of the bezel, the cabochon crown and the links, all made of ceramic. As a subtle marriage of steel with ceramic, performance with elegance, the Longines Conquest includes technical characteristics that meet the requirements of the most demanding sportsmen and women.
The Longines Conquest has a fixed bezel and a cabochon crown made of black, grey or white ceramic. Some models come with black or grey ceramic links that make up the bracelet. This material is a combination of beauty and exceptional technical features. Scratch-proof and non-allergenic, ceramic is impervious to all chemicals as well as being almost totally resistant to friction, abrasion and high temperatures. Its sheen contrasts with the brushed finish of the steel used for the case and the bracelet. The black, grey or white of the dial with its sleek design is a subtle reminder of the quality of the ceramic.
The characteristics of the models in the Conquest line meet the requirements of the most demanding sports: water-resistance to 300 m, screw-in crown and case-back, and lateral protection for the crown. The 41 mm diameter stainless steel case houses a choice of a self-winding, chronograph or three-hand movement. These models are also available with a leather or rubber strap or with a stainless steel bracelet.
Source: Longines
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:30 AM | View the original post
Honda is announcing the arrival of the Honda Racer™, a much-anticipated 1/64th scale Hot Wheels car designed by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in Torrance. The Honda model, along with designs from five additional automakers, were selected as part of the Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge™ as a way to celebrate the die-cast brand's 40th anniversary. The Honda Racer arrives on store shelves in May 2008.
"The Honda Racer combines the excitement of Honda's racing heritage with Hot Wheels' reputation for speed, power, performance and attitude," says Guillermo Gonzalez, senior designer of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., and designer of the Honda Racer. "The core concept is built around our idea for an 'ultimate racecar' and leverages the design freedom made possible by a scale model car."
"Sure, it is awesome to play with the cars on the orange track again, but I discovered that designing a Hot Wheels car is very different and in some ways more liberating than designing a production car," says Gonzalez, a native of East Los Angeles who considers automotive design to be his dream job. "For example, the primary design constraint is that the car had to fit on the orange track and perform a loop. Aside from that, the possibilities are without limit."
The key element to the design of the entire car is that the body is in the shape of the Honda "H" emblem. The exterior shape resembles an imaginative side-by-side racecar of 1960s vintage that encloses a driver and a navigator. The general shape, styling and paint scheme is further inspired by Honda's early participation in Formula 1 racing and its 1967 RA 273™ racecar. The white and red paint scheme, the open cockpits, large exhaust system and open wheels are all elements inspired by the historic Honda racecar. The design of the Honda Racer debuted at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas in October as a 1/5th scale model.
Mattel invited auto manufacturers to participate in the Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge as part of the die-cast brand's 40th anniversary celebration. Mattel, Inc., (NYSE: MAT, www.mattel.com) is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of toys and family products. The Mattel family is comprised of such brands as Barbie, the popular fashion doll, Hot Wheels, Matchbox, American Girl, Radica and Tyco R/C.
Starting in mid-August, the Honda Racer 1/5th scale model and other cars from the Designer's Challenge will be part of the Hot Wheels 40th anniversary road trip traveling along historic U.S. Route 40, stopping at multiple cities along the way. The tour starts at the Mattel headquarters in El Segundo, California, in August and ends at Watkins Glen, New York, in early September.
Sources: Honda and Mattel
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:19 AM | View the original post
Mazda North American Operations today confirmed that its all-new MAZDA6 sports sedan will launch later this year, with an expected on-sale date in late summer, 2008. The highly anticipated 2009 MAZDA6 is the first of Mazda's "Zoom-Zoom Evolution" second-generation vehicles, building on a heritage of sports sedans and sports cars.
Following on the heels of the CX-7 and CX-9 crossover SUVs, the 2009 MAZDA6 was designed and engineered for the needs, wants and desires of the North American customer. As it has been since the first MAZDA6 launched in 2002, all North American MAZDA6s will continue to be built at AutoAlliance International, in Flat Rock, Mich, a joint venture with partner Ford Motor Company.
"This is the most important new vehicle Mazda has launched in a decade," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations, from Denver, where the car was unveiled to Mazda dealers a day earlier at the company's North American Dealer Meeting. "The midsize sedan segment -- where MAZDA6 competes -- is a real battleground, with some of the best vehicles in the industry going toe-to-toe for sales. This new MAZDA6 was designed and engineered specifically for the North American market -- the third Mazda in a row to be so -- and will take on the very best cars from Asia, Europe and the U.S."
The North American MAZDA6 differs from the similarly named car sold in the rest of the world in many ways: larger interior and exterior size, more powerful engines and unique styling. Transmission choices are a six-speed manual or five-speed Sport AT automatic with manual-shift mode (2.5-liter engine) or a six-speed Sport AT automatic with manual-shift mode (3.7-liter V6).
The 2009 MAZDA6 will be available only as a four-door sedan, and in three trim levels: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, with varying levels of standard and optional equipment.
Source: Mazda North American Operations
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:48 AM | View the original post
Photo: Danica Patrick savors victory in Japan as she made racing history on Sunday; the first woman to ever win a race in the sport of U.S. open-wheeled racing. Tissot Swiss watches is congratulating its ambassador Danica Patrick on her historic win and will be producing a watch to celebrate her victory.
The right attitude and determination drove Danica Patrick to make racing history as the first woman to ever win a race in the sport of U.S. open-wheeled racing clinching her victory in the Japan 300.
Tissot Swiss watches are congratulating their ambassador Danica Patrick on her historic IndyCar(R) win and who now moves up to third in the overall standing. Danica has been a brand ambassador for Tissot since 2005.
"Tissot is very proud of our extraordinary ambassador, the first woman ever to capture victory in U.S. open-wheeled racing. For Tissot, Danica Patrick fits perfectly with the brand's values of innovation, quest for performance and stretching oneself to the limits and we believe that she is a real asset to our brand and an example to many young people around the world," said Tissot President, Francois Thiebaud.
Photo: Tissot is releasing the new PRC 100 Danica Patrick Limited Edition to celebrate Danica's victory in Japan. The new watch complements Danica's personality and accomplishments. Features include chronograph watch with tapered rows of 27 glittering diamonds around a mother-of-pearl dial in an angular case. An engraved case back features Danica's signature and the limited edition number. Finishing off the watch is either a stainless steel bracelet or white rubber strap. Perfect for any woman who wants style combined with sport.
Danica's momentous accomplishment and her flair for fashion deserve a watch to complement her and Tissot will be releasing the new PRC 100 Danica Patrick Limited Edition. Her new watch is precise, robust and classic -- mirroring key requirements of the IndyCar(R) competitive environment. The chronograph watch has a dynamic look that will sparkle on a woman's wrist.
Tissot, founded in 1853, is today a member of the Swatch Group, the world's largest watch producer and distributor. For over 154 years the company has had its home in the Swiss watch making town of Le Locle in the Jura mountains but now also has a presence in over 150 countries. Tisssot is official timekeeper and partner of NASCAR(R), AFL, CBA, MotoGP and the World Championships of cycling, fencing and ice hockey.
Source: Tissot
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:11 AM | View the original post
Photo: Thomas Glocer the new CEO of Thomson Reuters today unveiled its new branding and global advertising campaign across from multiple screens in Times Square, New York City. Mr. Glocer said, "The dynamic new corporate identity is a marked departure from the historical look and feel of the two companies and represents Thomson Reuters positioning as the world's leading source of intelligent information to businesses and professionals."
The Thomson Corporation has completed its acquisition of Reuters Group PLC, forming Thomson Reuters (NYSE: TRI; TSX: TRI; LSE: TRIL: NASDAQ: TRIN), the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, scientific, healthcare, and media markets.
At the same time, Thomson Reuters unveiled its new branding and a global advertising campaign. Mr. Thomas H. Glocer, chief executive officer of Thomson Reuters said, "The dynamic new corporate identity is a marked departure from the historical look and feel of the two companies and represents Thomson Reuters positioning as the world's leading source of intelligent information to businesses and professionals."
Thomson Reuters has more than 50,000 employees with operations in 93 countries on six continents and 2007 pro forma revenues of approximately US$12.4 billion.
Commenting on the just created Global Leadership Position of Thomson Reuters, Mr. Glocer said, "This is a very exciting day for our shareholders, customers and employees. Thomson Reuters will deliver the intelligent information needed to give businesses and professionals the knowledge to act. We call our information "intelligent" because it is not only insightful, highly relevant and timely, but it is also made available in formats which applications can consume and to which they can add further value. We are witnessing the maturation of the information economy and content from Thomson Reuters will be its currency." "Thomson Reuters will benefit from the value created by more diversified revenue streams, a larger capital base and synergies resulting from the acquisition. Our leadership position and global footprint will give us opportunities to grow faster than either Thomson or Reuters could have on its own," said Mr. Glocer.
On May 1, 2008, Thomson Reuters plans to announce results for the first quarter as well as a financial outlook for the remainder of 2008.
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:04 AM | View the original post
Hurley to Star in New Print and Television Advertising Campaigns.
Photo: Pictured here is Estee Lauder spokesmodel Elizabeth Hurley's new print advertising campaign for Estee Lauder's top-selling Perfectionist [CP+] Wrinkle Lifting Serum.
In July, Elizabeth Hurley will be featured in new print and television advertising for Estee Lauder's top-selling Perfectionist [CP+] Wrinkle Lifting Serum. This summer she will also be seen with her fellow Estee Lauder spokesmodels Gwyneth Paltrow, Carolyn Murphy and Hilary Rhoda in the print advertising campaign for Estee Lauder's new fragrance.
The year 2008 marks the thirteenth anniversary of Elizabeth Hurley's partnership with Estee Lauder, one of the longest running cosmetics contracts to date.
Photo: Estée Lauder spokesmodel, Elizabeth Hurley.
Photo: Estee Lauder pleasures and Pleasures For Men, representing the fourth largest global fragrance masterbrand.
Over the years, Elizabeth has appeared in advertising campaigns for some of Estee Lauder's product franchises. In addition to launching the best-selling pleasures fragrance in her first year with the company, Elizabeth has represented the Beautiful, DayWear, Double Wear, Idealist, Advanced Night Repair, Re-Nutriv and most recently Resilience Lift Extreme lines.
Photo: Celebrating her 13th anniversary with Estee Lauder at an event in New York City, spokesmodel Elizabeth Hurley is pictured here with husband Arun Nayar, Evelyn Lauder and Leonard Lauder.
"As a busy mother and entrepreneur, Elizabeth connects with women all over the world. She is a classic beauty who reflects today's modern woman," says Aerin Lauder, Senior Vice President, Creative Director for Estee Lauder. "Elizabeth Hurley and Estee Lauder have a very special relationship," says Evelyn Lauder, Senior Corporate Vice President, The Estee Lauder Companies. "Her 13 year tenure with us is a near record in the beauty industry and we are very proud of our relationship. Elizabeth's popularity with the consumer is at an all time high." And spokesmodel Elizabeth Hurley adds, "Estee Lauder is like a second family to me; I love working with them."
Source: Estee Lauder
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:43 PM | View the original post
The department store Lord and Taylor has re-launched its iconic Rose, first introduced in the 1940s and now re-created and re-colored in "sunrise," (a mixture of yellow and orange the store has adopted as its own). The exuberant new Lord and Taylor Rose is showcased on shopping bags, boxes, gift cards and in-store visuals in all 47 Lord and Taylor stores in the Northeast USA. In Manhattan, collages of the Rose are displayed in awnings and windows across the Fifth Avenue facade of the landmarked flagship store and wrap buses that carry New Yorkers and visitors to and from metro area locations.
Lord and Taylor is an upscale specialty department store with 47 stores in nine states and the District of Columbia. Founded in 1826, Lord and Taylor is America's oldest department store and one of the premier retailers.
The store is also conducting its first annual contest to re-create the Lord and Taylor Rose from submissions of original art work by artists from around the world. "We are planning to bring back the Lord and Taylor Rose each Spring, each time a different version created by a different artist," says Jane Elfers, President and Chief Executive Officer. Artists, graphic designers and photographers can get details and contest rules by visiting www.lordandtaylor.com/rosecontest. Registration and submissions will take place online through May 26. Industry experts will select 60 entries and their images posted on the website on June 9. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorites, one vote per e-mail. The first round of the vote will close at midnight, June 22. Thirty top entries will be posted on the website, June 25, and the second round of voting will begin, ending at midnight, June 30. The winner will be announced on July 2. Besides having his or her Lord and Taylor Rose showcased in the store flagship's Fifth Avenue awnings and windows as well as in shopping bags, boxes, gift cards and in- store visuals in all Lord and Taylor stores next Spring, the winner will receive a $10,000 cash award and multiple mentions in national and international press.
Photo: At Lord and Taylor -- display for the brand CLINIQUE, under the section BEAUTY & FRAGRANCE. (Photo Credit: Lord and Taylor)
The re-launch of the Rose is part of the Lord and Taylor rebranding campaign. The campaign, created by David Lipman, Chairman of LIPMAN, a leading branding and integrated advertising agency, aims to modernize the store's image. The campaign is showcasing the results of Lord and Taylor CEO Elfers' commitment to upgrading merchandise assortments, in-store services, amenities, and brand packaging, while upholding Lord and Taylor's 182 year history.
Source: Lord and Taylor
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:06 PM | View the original post
Photo: The new generation A-Class: Mercedes-Benz A 170 Coupé
BERLIN, April 9, 2008 -- Daimler AG is expecting approximately 6,600 shareholders to attend today's first Annual Meeting under the new name of Daimler in Berlin.
Six months after the start of Daimler, Chairman of the Board of Management (CEO) and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Dr. Dieter Zetsche sums up: "All of our business operations are developing well -- our key figures are significantly better than they have been in recent years." Addressing the shareholders, Zetsche says, "Your Company has made substantial progress over the past two years. Old virtues have given us new strength." Looking into the future, the Chairman of the Board of Management says, "We have a clear strategy for sustainable profitable growth."
Sustainable mobility and accident-free driving are the most important focuses of Daimler's research and development work. "We invented the automobile -- and we are passionately shaping its future," Zetsche says. The world is embarking on a second "automotive century," in which the number of automobiles in the world is growing five times as fast as its population. In the long term, this increase will only be ecologically acceptable if passenger cars and commercial vehicles become cleaner. Zetsche: "Customers expect us to provide solutions -- and we are willing to accept a pioneering role when it comes to clean and safe automobiles." Daimler has the required innovative power and the financial means to meet this challenge.
Daimler's "road map for sustainable mobility" consists of three pillars: the ongoing optimization of vehicles with innovative combustion engines; the additional improvement of efficiency through hybridization -- i.e. the combination of a combustion engine with an electric motor; and zero-emission driving with fuel cells and battery-driven systems.
Photo: Susanne Baldszun with her new smart fortwo cabrio (pulse 62 kW) and Ulrich Kowalewski, Director of the Mercedes-Benz Center Munich. Yesterday afternoon, Kowalewski handed over the 100,000th second-generation smart fortwo to this 36-year-old customer in the recently re-opened smart Center Munich. "The new fortwo is even more comfortable, more agile, safer, and more environmentally friendly than its successful predecessor," says Anders Sundt Jensen, who is responsible for brand management at smart. "The new fortwo is now offered in 37 countries, where enthusiastic customers are won over by the vehicle's lifestyle-oriented design, as well as its exceptional fuel economy and environmental compatibility." The unique two-seater is most popular with customers in Italy and Germany, who account for two-thirds of all drivers of the new fortwo. Demand is particularly high for the premium equipment line "passion", which is chosen by two out of three buyers worldwide.
Zetsche emphasizes that Daimler will not start building only small cars: "Our route to sustainable mobility is based on technological innovations, not renunciation." The company has the concrete goal of offering at least one model in each of the Mercedes-Benz core model series that is a leader in terms of consumption and emissions. In addition zero-emission driving, Daimler is also pursuing the goal of accident-free driving.
According to the text of his speech, Zetsche essentially confirms the outlook for 2008 and the coming years that was presented at the Annual Press Conference: "Currently, the economic climate suggests that things will get tougher rather than easier." Key factors are the credit crisis in the United States, the ongoing weakening of the Dollar against the Euro, the development of the raw material markets, and the low level of confidence in the U.S. economy with possible effects around the world.
In Daimler's view, the automotive markets will not remain unaffected by these developments. For example, the demand for passenger vehicles in the United States is likely to be much lower this year than in 2007; in Western Europe, it is expected to remain flat. Growth in the industry will therefore continue to be driven by the emerging markets, whose growth is so dynamic that it will more than offset the triad's weakness. Overall, Daimler assumes that the global market for passenger cars will grow by approximately 2% in 2008.
With regard to commercial vehicle markets, Europe is expected to maintain last year's high sales level. In North America, Daimler does not anticipate a recovery before the second half of the year.
Source: Daimler AG
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:05 AM | View the original post
As a partner of the Theodora Foundation for the past two years, Gerald Genta will be contributing to the charity auction organised by Christie's on April the 16th by donating a one-of-a-kind watch. The unique model is a sophisticated and amusing timepiece that plays on the colors of the foundation.
The Theodora Foundation was born in Switzerland, in 1993, at the initiative of Andre and Jan Poulie. It is named in tribute to their mother, Theodora, who brightened Andre's childhood days during an extended hospital stay. The mission of its Dream doctors is to care for sick children through laughter. They currently operate in over 40 institutions around Switzerland and the concept has been taken up in eight other countries. In all, around 30 specifically trained professional artists pay regular visits to 95 hospitals or specialised institutions some 220,000 times a year and adapt their clown shows to the situation of each child they meet..
Gerald Genta, an Haute Horlogerie brand with a fine appreciation for the humourous, supports the Theodora Foundation. For the second year running, it is donating a one-of-a-kind watch to the auction. This self-winding ladies' watch displays the hours and the minutes by central hands, and the seconds on one of the brand's typical retrograde counters, appearing at 6 o'clock. The particularly entertaining dial features a richly colourful and complex composition set against a white-lacquered background. The thirteen individual rings appear on various levels and are individually coloured using a sophisticated technique. This enchanting decorative effect is further magnified by a circle of diamonds set on the bezel of the white gold case.
The "Magnificent Jewels Auction" to be organised by Christie's, will take place in New York in April the 16th and will be preceded by several exhibitions around the world.
Source: Gerald Genta
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:45 AM | View the original post
Photo: Launch of Red Bull in France. Location: Paris, France April 1, 2008. (Photo credit: © Richard Walch/Red Bull Photo Files)
Red Bull made a spectacular entry into France on Tuesday, April 1, 2008. The world's largest energy drink producer celebrated its long-awaited arrival in that country with 150 "Wings Teams" from around Europe forming a magnificent get together as they circled the Arc de Triomphe in their distinctive blue and silver Minis just hours after a BASE jumper got the "Wings for Paris" day off to a flying start by leaping off the Eiffel Tower and a motorcycle rider made a gravity-defying ride over a 50-meter high landmark arch in the La Defense business district.
Photo: Launch of Red Bull in France. Location: Paris, France April 1, 2008. Athlete: Ueli Gegenschatz. BASE Jumping. (Photo credit: © Schaad/Red Bull Photo Files)
Just after daybreak, Swiss BASE jumper Ueli Gegenschatz got the Red Bull "Wings for Paris" day off to a dazzling start with his picture-perfect leap off the top of Eiffel Tower, France's 324-meter great national landmark. "It was an exciting climb up, and the jump went well with a nice opening," said Gegenschatz, who had made his clandestine ascent up the side of the tower in the early morning hours under cover of darkness. "It was pretty cold up there, and there was quite a bit of wind. I was glad when the sun finally came up. It's a great way to introduce Red Bull to France."
Photo: Launch of Red Bull in France. Location: Paris, France April 1, 2008. Motorbike Trial. Athlete: Julien Dupont. (Photo credit: © Richard Walch/Red Bull Photo Files)
Photo: Launch of Red Bull in France. Location: Paris, France April 1, 2008. Motorbike Trial. Athlete: Julien Dupont. (Photo credit: © Dom Daher/Red Bull Photo Files)
About two hours later French trial motorbike specialist Julien Dupont gave countless thousands of rush-hour commuters in Paris's La Defense business district a rush of their own with a gravity-defying motorcycle ride up, over and down the other side the 50-meter-high arched concrete roof of the CNIT center building.
"Everything went according to plan on the way up, and it was my greatest accomplishment on the bike ever," said Dupont, who was helped by two tall women in short skirts who distracted security. "The roof was a bit slippery, so I had to slow down a bit on the way back down the other side. It was tricky getting the (80-kilo) bike over the fence, but that all worked out well."
The Austrian company known for its non-conformist style lived up to its reputation on April Fools' Day, picking April 1, of all days, to end the long dry spell for France. The energy drink is already available in over 140 countries with more than 3.5 billion cans sold in 2007.
Photo: Sampling cars drive in circles around the Arc de Triomphe as Red Bull launches its energy drink in France on April 1, 2008, in Paris. (Photo credit: © Richard Walch/Red Bull Photo Files)
Photo: Launch of Red Bull in France. Location: Paris, France April 1, 2008. (Photo credit: © Schaad/Red Bull Photo Files)
The highlight of the celebrations marking the arrival in Paris was a Red Bull-style car rally around the Arc de Triomphe by the "Wings Teams."
The roundabout around the famous arch at the end of the Champs-Elysees might be one of most challenging for motorists anywhere in Europe -- with swift-moving traffic entering and exiting from 12 different avenues. But the "Wings Teams" from 10 different countries across Europe skillfully navigated their Minis into and around the monument -- and after safely parking their cars they surprised curious Parisians by giving them wings -- free samples of the energy drink.
Source: Red Bull
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:51 AM | View the original post
Photo 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Photo: 2008 Saturn Astra XR 3-door
GM delivers 27 percent more display ads than Toyota in total, but Toyota delivers 32 percent more ads per person reach, this was revealed today by edcomScore, Inc. (NASDAQ:SCOR). edcomScore, Inc. released a study using data from the comScore Ad Metrix service that examined online advertising by auto manufacturers in January 2008. comScore Ad Metrix provides detailed reporting of the number and types of online display ads viewed by Internet users (from both the publisher and advertiser perspectives) for the U.S. market, with January marking the first public release of the advertiser- level data.
comScore Ad Metrix measures the number of times each advertisers' ads are viewed and where they are viewed, along with information on the demographics and online behavior of those Internet users being reached. comScore Ad Metrix also provides reach and frequency calculations, samples of the creative ad units delivered, and information on ad sizes.
Photo: 2008 Honda Civic Coupe
Photo: Honda Acura 2009 TSX
GM Leads in Online Ads among Auto Manufacturers: General Motors was the top online advertiser among auto manufacturers in January, delivering nearly 1.7 billion total display ad views in the U.S., followed by Toyota (1.4 billion) and Ford Motor Company (1.1 billion). General Motors also led in reach, with approximately 103 million unique individuals receiving their display ads during the month, followed by Ford which reached 95 million people and Toyota which reached 62 million. But, both General Motors and Ford were outnumbered by Toyota in terms of ads delivered per person reached. Toyota delivered a frequency of 22 ads per person during the month, compared to 16 for General Motors and 11 for Ford.
Top Auto Manufacturer Online Advertisers
(by Total Display AdViews in January 2008)
Advertiser • Ad Views (000) • Share • Visitors (000) • Frequency
General Motors • 1,687,065 • 32.8% • 102,574 • 16.4
Toyota • 1,356,782 • 26.4% • 62,428 • 21.7
Ford Motor • 1,075,831 • 20.9% • 94,987 • 11.3
Honda • 377,863 • 7.3% • 57,923 • 6.5
Nissan • 291,666 • 5.7% • 31,262 • 9.3
Chrysler LLC • 123,868 • 2.4% • 22,142 • 5.6
Hyundai Motors • 95,246 • 1.9% • 16,723 • 5.7
Volkswagen • 60,498 • 1.2% • 7,126 • 8.5
Suzuki Motor • 42,491 • 0.8% • 5,389 • 2.8
Harley Davidson • 35,287 • 0.7% • 6,109 • 5.8
Total U.S. - Home/Work/University Locations
Source: comScore Ad Metrix
"GM has really led the auto industry in its use of online advertising," says Alistair Sutcliffe, vice president of comScore Advertising Solutions, "And, their recent announcement that half of their $3 billion annual advertising budget would be spent online in the coming years is likely to be a bellwether for many industries. Many traditional advertisers are beginning to understand that the Internet enables them to efficiently build their brands by achieving their demographic reach and frequency goals while at the same time reaching the most attractive, behaviorally-defined target segments. This is a winning recipe for achieving an attractive return on one's advertising investment."
Photo: 2008 Toyota Camry
Photo: 2008 Toyota Sequoia
Auto Manufacturers Advertise Heavily on Portals and Auto Resource Sites: The top publisher sites on which auto manufacturers advertise are primarily portals and auto resource sites. Yahoo! Sites (936 million display ad views) and Microsoft Sites (585 million display ad views) deliver the most total impressions for auto manufacturers, and both also deliver significant reach with these impressions.
Auto resource sites also factor prominently into auto manufacturers' online advertising strategies, with AutoTrader (114 million display ad views) and Edmunds.com (98 million display ad views) leading the way. Though these sites have a narrower reach than portals, they represent a desirable and highly targeted audience for auto manufacturers.
Auto Manufacturer Display Ads Appearance
Top Properties in January 2008
Property • Ad Views (000) • Share • Visitors (000) • Frequency
Yahoo! Sites • 935,550 • 18.0% • 72,041 • 13.0
Microsoft Sites • 584,889 • 11.2% • 39,615 • 14.8
Fox Interactive • 550,288 • 10.6% • 41,660 • 13.2
AOL LLC • 316,772 • 6.1% • 33,808 • 9.4
AutoTrader • 113,764 • 2.2% • 3,698 • 30.8
Edmunds.com • 97,579 • 1.9% • 4,359 • 22.4
KBB.com • 83,529 • 1.6% • 4,669 • 17.9
eBay • 80,918 • 1.6% • 15,027 • 5.4
Time Warner (Excl. AOL) • 53,674 • 1.0% • 8,855 • 6.1
Google Sites • 50,306 • 1.0% • 16,192 • 3.1
Total U.S. - Home/Work/University Locations
Source: comScore Ad Metrix
Toyota Scion xB Has Most Viewed Display Ad among Auto Manufacturers in January: The majority of the top 10 auto manufacturer display ads in January were for new model introductions, with the Toyota Scion xB 120 x 240 flash (swf) ad ranking atop the list with 12.6 percent of all display ad views in the category. Honda's "Battle of the Bands" ad ranked second with 2.9 percent, followed by a Chevy Malibu new model ad with a 2.4-percent share.
Top Online Display Ad (Creatives)
(Among Auto Manufacturers in January 2008)
Company • Make • Model • Ad Size & Type • % of Total
Toyota • Scion • xB • 120 X 240 swf • 12.6%
Honda • Honda • n/a • 175 X 110 gif • 2.9%
GM • Chevrolet • Malibu • 350 X 200 swf • 2.4%
GM • Saturn • All • 350 X 200 swf • 2.2%
GM • Chevrolet • Malibu • 728 X 90 swf • 2.1%
GM • Chevrolet • Malibu • 300 X 250 swf • 2.0%
GM • Chevrolet • Malibu • 300 X 250 swf • 2.0%
Toyota • Toyota • Sequoia • 300 X 250 swf • 1.7%
Toyota • Toyota • n/a • 88 X 31 gif • 1.5%
Honda • Acura • n/a • 468 X 60 gif • 1.3%
Total U.S. - Home/Work/University Locations
Source: comScore Ad Metrix
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:34 PM | View the original post
India's largest automobile company, Tata Motors today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with the Ford Motor Company for the purchase of Jaguar Land Rover, comprising brands, plants and Intellectual Property Rights.
Photo: 2008 Land Rover Range Rover
The transfer of ownership to Tata Motors is expected to close by the end of the next quarter, subject to applicable regulatory approvals.
The total amount to be paid in cash by Tata Motors for Jaguar Land Rover upon closing will be approximately US $2.3 billion. At closing, Ford will then contribute up to approximately US $600 million to the Jaguar Land Rover pension plans.
Photo: 2008 Jaguar XK
Commenting on the agreement, Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors, Mr. Ratan N. Tata, said, "We are very pleased at the prospect of Jaguar and Land Rover being a significant part of our automotive business. We have enormous respect for the two brands and will endeavor to preserve and build on their heritage and competitiveness, keeping their identities intact. We aim to support their growth, while holding true to our principles of allowing the management and employees to bring their experience and expertise to bear on the growth of the business."
Mr. Alan Mulally, President and CEO of the Ford Motor Company, said, "Jaguar and Land Rover are terrific brands. We are confident that they are leaving our fold with the products, plan and team to continue to thrive under Tata's stewardship. Now, it is time for Ford to concentrate on integrating the Ford brand globally, as we implement our plan to create a strong Ford Motor Company that delivers profitable growth for all."
As part of the transaction, Ford will continue to supply Jaguar Land Rover for differing periods with powertrains, stampings and other vehicle components, in addition to a variety of technologies, such as environmental and platform technologies. Ford also has committed to provide engineering support, including research and development, plus information technology, accounting and other services.
Photo: Land Rover recently announced a multi-year relationship with Wimbledon Champion and one of the world's most talented female athletes - Maria Sharapova.
In addition, Ford Motor Credit Company will provide financing for Jaguar and Land Rover dealers and customers during a transitional period, which can vary by market, of up to 12 months.
Jaguar Land Rover's employees, trades unions and the UK Government have been kept informed of developments as the sale process progressed and have indicated their support for the agreement.
Founded in 1922, Jaguar has been amongst the premium brands for luxury saloons and sports cars. Since its very first design appeared in 1948, Land Rover has been identified as "the ultimate in four-wheel drive vehicles". Jaguar and Land Rover have been under Ford's ownership since 1989 and 2000 respectively. The two together have about 16,000 employees.
Speaking on behalf of Jaguar Land Rover, Geoff Polites, chief executive officer, said: "Jaguar Land Rover's management team is very pleased that Ford and Tata Motors have come to an agreement today. Our team has been consulted extensively on the deal content and feels confident that it provides for the business needs of both our brands going forward.
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:29 PM | View the original post
Photo: EMC is running this ad on Tokyo Metro trains during the Ricoh Japan Opening Series, featuring the Boston Red Sox and Oakland A's March 25-26 at the Tokyo Dome. In English, the ad's headline says: "The moment when confidence becomes conviction. IT strategy based on EMC's technology is the winning approach."
Photo: Boston Red Sox pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka throws a ball during his team's practice in Tokyo, Japan, Monday, March 24, 2008. Matsuzaka is expected to pitch against the Oakland Athletics in Tuesday's Major League Baseball regular season opener at the Tokyo dome. (AP Photo/Shizuo Kambayashi)
TOKYO, March 24 -- As Major League Baseball travels to Tokyo for the RICOH JAPAN OPENING SERIES 2008, the defending World Series champion Boston Red Sox will begin their quest to repeat with a pair of games against the Oakland A's at the Tokyo Dome on March 25 and 26. Just as it was throughout their 2007 championship season, the Red Sox' EMC information infrastructure will be working in the background to help provide an information advantage. This time, though, the Red Sox also will be wearing an EMC logo patch on their sleeves when they take the field.
Photo: Boston Red Sox will take the field with this EMC sleeve patch on their right shoulders for the Ricoh Japan Opening Series March 25-26 at the Tokyo Dome. This will mark the first time in their history the Red Sox have worn a sponsor logo on their uniforms.
EMC Corporation, a world leader in information infrastructure solutions, is an Official Sponsor of Major League Baseball (MLB) Japan, and has expanded its partnership with the Boston Red Sox to support the RICOH JAPAN OPENING SERIES 2008. For the games in Japan, the Red Sox will wear specially designed sleeve patches featuring the EMC and "JAPAN 2008" logos, marking the first-ever sponsor logo on the team's uniforms. The initiative would reinforce EMC's expanding brand awareness in Japan, one of the world's largest and most advanced markets for information technology.
EMC provides state-of-the-art mobile information storage, which allows Red Sox players and coaches to access digitized video of their own performances and mechanics as well as their opponents', whether the team is on the road or at Fenway Park in Boston. The system will be up and running at the Tokyo Dome.
As the Official Information Infrastructure Provider of the Boston Red Sox, EMC provides the systems, software and services that enable a variety of traditional business applications, such as e-mail, transaction systems, and online editing of video and other content for the broadcast and print news media, as well as some highly specialized ones, such as digitized video access. In total, the Red Sox have deployed nearly 100 terabytes of capacity on EMC networked storage systems.
EMC Corporation (NYSE:EMC) is a leading developer and provider of information infrastructure technology and solutions to organizations of all sizes. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:29 AM | View the original post
Plug-in hybrid with battery-only range of 60 miles - and a combustion diesel engine for backup power.
The Volvo ReCharge Concept is a plug-in hybrid with individual electric wheel motors and batteries that can be recharged via a regular electrical outlet for maximum environmental benefit.
Recharging allows the car to be driven about 60 miles (100 km) on battery power alone before the car's four-cylinder diesel engine is needed to power the car and recharge the battery.
The ReCharge Concept has been developed at the Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center (VMCC), the Volvo Car Corporation's think-tank in Camarillo, California.
"This is a ground-breaking innovation for sustainable transportation. A person driving less than 60 miles a day will rarely need to visit a filling station. In the USA, this may apply to almost 80 percent of drivers," says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President Research and Development at Volvo Cars. According to him, this plug-in hybrid car, when used as intended, should have about 66 percent lower emissions of carbon dioxide compared with the best hybrid cars available on the market today.
See Volvo Recharge Concept Movie
An electric motor at each wheel -- the Volvo ReCharge Concept shown combines a number of the latest technological innovations into a so-called "series hybrid" where there is no mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels.The battery pack integrated into the luggage compartment uses lithium-polymer battery technology. The batteries are intended to have a useful life beyond that of the car itself. Four electric motors, one at each wheel, provide independent traction power. Four-cylinder 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine (109 hp) drives an advanced generator that efficiently powers the wheel motors when the battery is depleted.
Electric car with a combustion engine as backup -- in principle, the Volvo ReCharge Concept is a battery electric car with an efficient generator, an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), that steps in when battery charge becomes insufficient for adequate driving performance.
The driver can choose the power source -- the combustion engine starts up automatically when 70 percent of the battery power has been used up. However, the driver also has the option of controlling the four-cylinder diesel engine manually via a button in the instrument panel. This allows the driver to start the engine earlier in order to maximize battery charge, for instance when out on the highway in order to save battery capacity for driving through the next town.
Photo: Ichiro Sugioka, project manager for the Volvo ReCharge Concept, in front of the ReCharge Concept car.
"There is a considerable difference between our plug-in hybrid and today's hybrids. Today's hybrids use the battery only for short periods to assist the combustion engine. Our solution is designed for most people to run on electric power all the time, while providing the extra security that comes with having a combustion engine as a secondary source of electrical power," says Ichiro Sugioka, project manager for the Volvo ReCharge Concept. He adds: "What is more, our C30 with plug-in hybrid technology retains its lively and sporty driving properties. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 9 seconds and top speed is 100 mph."
The Volvo ReCharge Concept is best suited to car drivers who cover moderate distances every day. For example, a commuter who has less than 60 miles to drive between home and workplace can cover the entire round trip on electric power alone, making the car a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) for most everyday driving.
Meanwhile, Volvo Car Corporation has just launched a unique cooperation for the development of plug-in hybrid cars in Sweden. Together with electricity provider Vattenfall, Saab Automobile, ETC and the Swedish state, Volvo Car Corporation is launching a joint broad-based research venture to develop spearhead technology in the area of plug-in hybrid cars. Sweden will be the arena for the field tests.
The aim of the project, which is being carried out jointly by Volvo Car Corporation, Saab Automobile, Vattenfall (electric supplier) and ETC (battery provider), is to develop and demonstrate the next-generation hybrid cars. A fleet of 10 plug-in hybrids will be produced that can be recharged directly from the mains wall socket.
|GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:55 AM | View the original post
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