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PHOTO: Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG and Head of Mercedes Car Group presents the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:18 PM | View the original post
Unique combination of safety, comfort and agility.
Three individual models of the sedan coming to European dealers at the end of March 2007.
PHOTO: World Premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class
PHOTO: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, ELEGANCE, Exterior
Stuttgart, Jan 18, 2007 -- While deliveries of more than two million units make the predecessor model the best-selling C-Class ever, the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class celebrated its world premiere at the Mercedes-Benz World in Stuttgart, January 18, 2007.
PHOTO: The CLASSIC line Mercedes-Benz C-Class
PHOTO: The CLASSIC line appeals to those Mercedes-Benz drivers who prefer their C-Class to be fairly discrete about what it can do.
The new C-Class sedan offers outstanding safety, comfort and agility, and stands out through a product concept that emphasizes variety to meet the most diverse customer requirements. In addition, the three individual models have a visibly different appearance from one another.
PHOTO: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, AVANTGARDE, Exterior
PHOTO: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, AVANTGARDE with AMG Sports Package, Interior
PHOTO: Impact Levels: The new C-Class has four independent impact levels - impact forces can therefore be distributed over a large area and away from the passenger cell.
"Through innovative high-performance technologies we aim to raise the bar even higher when it comes to safety, comfort and agility in the segment of compact premium automobiles," says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management DaimlerChrysler AG and head of the Mercedes Car Group. "The new C-Class will thus set new standards when it comes to providing the most sophisticated driving experience in its segment." [GlobalGiants.com]
Individual design of the new C-Class underscores its agility and comfort
The distinctive design of the new C-Class, which will arrive at dealerships in Europe at the end of March and in the U.S. just a few weeks later, is based on the modern Mercedes-Benz idiom. For the first time in a Mercedes sedan, the model variants differ from one another through different front views. The AVANTGARDE model with its centrally positioned Mercedes star is an extremely agile C-Class in a sporty design. For customers who rather prefer a comfortable and elegant ride, Mercedes-Benz offers a truly classic model in the CLASSIC and ELEGANCE lines with the traditional Mercedes radiator grille. "With this design variety, the new C-Class can be tailored even more specifically to what typically are very heterogenous customer demands in this segment. Depending on the line, the new C-Class sets an individual tone in terms of comfort or agility," says Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Mercedes Car Group, responsible for Sales and Marketing.
Newest technology ensures maximum driving pleasure and safety
Technical innovations in the new C-Class include the AGILITY CONTROL system, which adjusts shock absorbers in line with the driving situation and provides for even more direct steering. The model is also equipped with the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system – yet another innovation in chassis technology that offers additional assistance features. The highest levels of safety are ensured by seven airbags, seatbelt tensioners and belt force limiters, all of which come as standard equipment. Also standard are the NECK PRO headrests, which support and protect the heads of the driver and the front passenger within fractions of a second if the vehicle is hit from the rear. In addition, Mercedes-Benz is offering blinking brake lights that help prevent rear-end collisions as standard equipment in the new C-Class. The model is also the first in its segment to be equipped with the innovative Intelligent Light System that features five different headlight settings, and the PRE-SAFE occupant protection system, which automatically activates measures that protect the driver and the front passenger if an accident is imminent.
New gasoline and diesel engines provide for even better performance and sophisticated driving experience
A total of four modified engines, three gasoline engines and one diesel, are available for the new C-Class. With an impressive increase in performance of up to 13 percent, these engines also make a powerful contribution to the dynamic character of the vehicle. Mercedes-Benz engineers paid particular attention to refining the four-cylinder engines, whose output and fuel economy have been significantly improved. The C 220 CDI, for example, now consumes up to 0.3 liters less fuel per 100 kilometers. The advanced V6 engines in the C-Class program remain unchanged.
The C-Class: A best-seller in the Mercedes-Benz product lineup
C-Class models have been among the most popular vehicles in the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio ever since the launch of the 190 Series – the so-called Baby Benz – 25 years ago. With the latest model changeover, the fourth generation of the C-Class will now continue the success story of its predecessor, the 203 Series. More than two million sedans, station wagons and sport coupes have been sold of this model since its market launch in March 2000. This makes the 203 Series the best-selling C-Class model ever. Germany is the most important market for the C-Class, accounting for approximately 30 percent of worldwide sales. The new C-Class will be built at the Sindelfingen and Bremen plants in Germany and at the East London plant in South Africa. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:39 PM | View the original post
NEW DELHI, Jan. 17, 2007 -- In a move to strengthen its in-country presence, Boeing India is announcing the appointment of two senior executives to lead its efforts in India.
Boeing today named Ian Thomas as vice president of Boeing International and president of Boeing India, effective Jan. 19. He is responsible for leading Boeing's enterprise-wide India team, strengthening the company's local presence and finding new ways to pursue growth and productivity initiatives. Thomas succeeds Anil Shrikhande, who has been appointed vice president and country leader for Integrated Defense Systems.
"India represents one of Boeing's largest potential growth markets for defense products in Asia," said Mark Kronenberg, vice president for IDS Business Development for Asia-Pacific . "Anil Shrikhande's appointment reflects the importance IDS is placing on the Indian defense market which holds great potential to generate new revenue for the company."
The close relationship between Boeing and India goes back six decades, when India entered the jet age on the wings of Boeing jetliners. Boeing jets continue to be the mainstay of the country's domestic and intercontinental commercial fleets. Boeing also has important relationships with suppliers in India and is actively pursuing technical and business partnerships with Indian companies and institutions.
In December 2003, Boeing established a wholly owned subsidiary, Boeing International Corporation India Private Limited (BICIPL), to support the growing demands of India's aviation, aerospace and defense industries.
"India is a priority market for Boeing," added Koellner. "There is a tremendous opportunity for Boeing and India to work together in many ways to advance our common interests." [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:04 PM | View the original post
Photo: Lau, Chelsia: Ford Motor Company designer Chelsia Lau, named as the World's Outstanding Chinese Designer for 2006, has been responsible for such vehicles as the Ford Explorer Sport Trac and 2008 Lincoln Navigator.
Chelsia Lau has an eye for design. She is always looking for new trends in fashion, film and travel to inspire her to create some of Ford's most innovative concepts. As one of the chief designers for Ford, The Hong Kong Design Centre named Lau the World's Outstanding Chinese Designer for 2006.
The World's Outstanding Chinese Designer award honors a talented designer of Chinese heritage who has displayed superb ability, attained great achievements within their own discipline, and devoted themselves to the furthering of design. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:50 PM | View the original post
PHOTO: SAN ANTONIO, TX. -- 2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty breaks through the frozen Texas tundra January 17, 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:24 PM | View the original post
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 17 -- Sony is ringing in the New Year with four additions to its Cyber-shot(R) digital camera line: the DSC-W55, DSC-W35, DSC-S700 and DSC-S650 models.
The slim, compact DSC-W55 and DSC-W35 models will sport 7.2-megapixel imagers and precision Carl Zeiss(R) Vario-Tessar lenses. They combine traditional, eye-level viewfinders with large LCD screens for easy framing and viewing of photos. The W55 camera will make a splash in Caribbean blue, pale pink, elegant black and sleek silver with a 2.5-inch LCD screen wrapped in a metal body, and the W35 camera will shimmer in silver with a two-inch screen. [GlobalGiants.com]
The new DSC-S700 and DSC-S650 cameras will also feature 7.2-megapixel imagers, and will shine in classic silver. The former model will house a 2.4-inch LCD wrapped in a metal body and the latter a two-inch screen.
All four new models feature 3x optical zoom capability, blur-reduction technologies (ISO), and substantial internal memory for shooting without a media card. Their storage capacities can be expanded further with optional 8GB Memory Stick Duo(TM) or Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM) flash media cards for the W-series models and 4 GB Duo media cards for the S-series models.
"Now that digital cameras are personal items, it's common to have more than one camera per household," said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. "Our new models are solid performers that will be easy for novices to digital photography to use and at the same time meet the needs of more advanced users."
Capture the Mood
High sensitivity is featured on all of the cameras to reduce the chances of taking blurry photos, especially in low light situations. With settings up to ISO1000, you can shoot at higher shutter speeds to capture the candles on a birthday cake or the city lights without using a flash.
On the W-series cameras, Sony's Clear RAW(TM) noise reduction technology helps reduce picture noise common to low-light exposures. Sony's AF Illuminator also facilitates these models' ability to shoot well in low light. A special light is thrown on subjects before taking a shot so that the camera's imager can better detect contrast. The end result is well-focused, clear pictures, even in low light.
Shoot At The Speed of Life
These new models feature quick start-up, fast shot-to-shot times, and long battery life -- up to 380 shots on a full charge of the W55 and W35 cameras' Lithium ion battery, and 460 shots on a full charge of the S700 and S650 models' optional, rechargeable AA batteries. The cameras' sophisticated auto-exposure and auto-focus features work fast so you get the picture right the first time.
No More Guesswork
All models incorporate a function guide and resolution guide. When menu icons are selected, a simple text explanation is displayed on the LCD screen. This function guide is readily-accessible through a convenient mode dial. The resolution guide is helpful when deciding on the best resolution for prints. When you select the resolution in the menu, a pop-up screen provides the ideal print size for that particular setting. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:35 PM | View the original post
NEW YORK, Jan. 17 -- M-A-C Cosmetics, the leading brand of professional cosmetics and makeup artist brand of choice, has named Raquel Welch, award-winning actress and screen siren, its fourth M-A-C Beauty Icon. Ms. Welch, well-known for her own artistry skills, and M-A-C Cosmetics closely collaborated on a colour collection available at M-A-C locations worldwide, February 2007.
M-A-C (Make-up Art Cosmetics), the leading professional cosmetics brand, was created in Toronto, Canada in 1984 and is now sold in over 60 countries worldwide. M-A-C Cosmetics supports the special needs of professional makeup artists that meet the demanding lighting and studio conditions under which the pros work. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:29 PM | View the original post
DEARBORN, MI -- What at first glance may look like a simple design tweak is really a whole lot more. The 2008 Ford Five Hundred has gone through a major facelift, and the company says there's plenty that's new under its skin, as well.
With more than 500 updates, Ford's flagship full-size sedan boasts more power, a smoother transmission, a quieter and more refined interior, more standard safety features, and a new Fusion-like look.
"We knew we had a great package to begin with," said chief designer Richard Woolley. "What we wanted was to appeal more to a customer's emotional side. When you see it coming you know what it is, even from a distance."
Introduced at this week's North American International Auto Show, the Five Hundred's most notable change is the front end. Replacing the original grill is Ford's new three-bar grill which was first introduced on the Fusion and Edge. Ford's designers have also taken visual weight off the front end by lowering the hood.
The Five Hundred's new, more horizontal look continues in the rear with new tail lamps and dual chrome-tipped exhaust.
"With a Fusion-inspired appearance, the Five Hundred is really going to stand out on the road," Ford's president and CEO Alan Mullaly told auto show reporters. "The overall impression inside and out is upscale." [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:54 PM | View the original post
PHOTO: Ford Focus RS WRC 2007
Reigning world rally champion BP-Ford will launch the defence of its 2006 title on the legendary Rallye Monte Carlo (18 - 21 January) in France next week with a proven winning squad. The team which lifted the FIA World Rally Championship manufacturers' title will begin 2007 with the same core structure firmly in place.
The driver line-up of Marcus Grönholm and Timo Rautiainen and team-mates Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen, who spurred the team to its most successful season ever with eight victories en route to the title, remains unchanged. The Focus RS WRC will also begin the new campaign in the same specification that it ended the 2006 season. However, development of the car continues and upgrades are expected as the season unfolds.
The Focus RS WRC will display a new color scheme for 2007 and a new team logo has been designed to take the team into the future. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:15 PM | View the original post
PHOTO: SEATTLE -- The first Boeing Next-Generation 737-700ER (Extended Range) completed final assembly and rolled out of the Renton, Wash., manufacturing facility. The airplane receives a painted livery and goes through preflight testing before delivery to launch customer ANA (All Nippon Airways) in early 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:07 PM | View the original post
Photo: 2008 Chevrolet Equinox Sport
DETROIT – From a sleek, electrically powered concept vehicle that makes trips to the gas station a rarity, to a modern, top-down twist on one of America’s favorite muscle cars, design and technology dominate the General Motors exhibit at the 2007 North American International Auto Show, which opened to the public on Jan. 13.
Photo: Pontiac G6 GXP
To show off this year’s stunning new production and concept vehicles, the all-new, 121,000-square-foot GM exhibit space – the show’s largest – has been transformed into an art gallery-type setting that complements each of GM’s eight vehicle brands and showcases GM’s intention to reinvent the automobile with technologies that save fuel, reduce emissions and promote energy independence.
Photo: Chevrolet HHR Premiere Edition -- Chevrolet debuts the HHR Premiere Edition at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The HHR Premiere Edition features 17" black chrome wheels, black chrome exterior package, a special Cappuccino Frost Metallic exterior color and a special Ebony/Gray two-tone interior. The HHR Premiere Edition will begin production early in the first quarter of 2007.
Photo: 2008 Pontiac Torrent GXP
Photo: 2008 Pontiac G6 GXP.R Race Car
Here is the complete list of GM vehicle introductions for Detroit :
• All-new 2008 Cadillac CTS (world debut)
• All-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (world debut)
• Chevrolet Volt concept (world debut)
• Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept (world debut)
• Chevrolet Equinox Sport
• Chevrolet HHR Premiere Edition
• Pontiac G6 GXP
• Pontiac Torrent GXP
• Pontiac GXP.R race car
• Saab BioPower Hybrid concept
Four vehicles make their world debut in Detroit : the Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept, Chevrolet Volt concept, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu and the 2008 Cadillac CTS. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:31 PM | View the original post
Photo: Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Exception: Renault announces the Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Exception special series, a stylish yet sportslike model with distinguished features such as two-tone leather upholstery, satin chrome roof arch and 17" aluminium wheels. On top of the rich equipment list of the Dynamique trim version, it adds an anti-turbulence net screen and rear parking assistance as standard fittings. Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Exception is being released in January 2007.
Photo: Cycle Renault Volga - MTB
Photo: Cycles Renault Sport Zapping
Photo: Renault Clio Renault Sport 2.0 16 V. Launched in June 1990 in France, Clio is a best-seller in its segment. Clio II, which went on sale in June 2001, was restyled in step with Renault’s new visual identity, launched with Vel Satis. Its safety and comfort features, unrivalled at this level of the range, make the compact Clio all the hallmarks of a grand tourer.
Photo: Kangoo Express: Kangoo Express has rapidly become the leader on the French and European LCV markets since its launch in November 1997. With its convivial design, ease of driving, excellent loading volume/overall length ratio, practical interior layout and low ownership costs, it quickly became popular with small businesses and self-employed people. It has also been a success as a fleet vehicle. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:35 PM | View the original post
Photo: Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper (center) receives the Best of Show award for the Chevrolet Camaro from The Detroit News Editor & Publisher David Butler (left) and Editorial Page Editor Nolan Finley at the Detroit Economic Club Luncheon, in conjunction with the North American International Auto Show Friday, January 12, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:57 PM | View the original post
Photo: Chrysler Group President Tom Lasorda, unveiled the all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country (pictured) and Dodge Grand Caravan for media at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:41 PM | View the original post
Photo: Detroit -- Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Design, Chrysler Group, unveiled the Jeep Trailhawk Concept at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. Jeep Trailhawk concept merges the spectrum of the Jeep brand by combining the core off-road features of the all-new four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the refined sophistication of an all-new on-road open-air concept vehicle, providing a unique and fresh expression for Jeep. Built off the all-new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited platform, Jeep Trailhawk is a more refined highway cruiser without sacrificing any of Jeep's legendary off-road capabilities.
The Jeep Trailhawk concept merges the spectrum of the Jeep brand by combining the core off-road features of the new body-on-frame four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the refined sophistication of an all-new on-road open-air concept vehicle, providing a unique and fresh expression for Jeep. Built off the new Wrangler platform, the Jeep Trailhawk is a more refined highway cruiser without sacrificing any of Jeep’s legendary off-road capabilities. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:26 PM | View the original post
Photo: Detroit -- Chrysler Group introduced the new 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 here at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is more menacing than ever with a completely redesigned hood, grille, front fascia and functional performance hood scoop. Equipped with a 425-horsepower HEMI V-8 engine, the Dodge Magnum SRT8 goes from 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds.
The newly restyled 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup — including SRT8, R/T, SXT and SE models — continues the boldly-styled theme of American muscle, with its unique profile, exceptional versatility, HEMI power, fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive performance. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:22 PM | View the original post
Providing Style, Performance and Value Price in Crowded Mid-size Segment.
Chrysler Group introduced the all-new 2008 Dodge Avenger (production version) during the vehicle's world debut at the North American International Auto Show. Avenger brings Dodge Charger heritage to the mid-size car segment. With a starting U.S. MSRP of $18,895, Avenger is priced $1,605 below the outgoing Stratus with $985 more content, including standard side-curtain and side-seat mounted air bags, theft alarm and Chill Zone(TM) beverage cooler. Avenger is powered by three available powertrains, a standard 2.4-liter World Engine, a 2.7-liter V-6 with Flex Fuel (FFV) capability and a 3.5-liter V-6 coupled with a new six-speed transmission that delivers performance that rivals the best in the class. Avenger will start arriving in dealerships in the first quarter of 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:58 PM | View the original post
DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund donates $25,000 to aid disabled firefighters.
Photo: Auburn Hills, Mich. -- Chrysler Group President and Chief Executive Officer Tom LaSorda, right, presents Detroit city and Fire Department officials a check for $25,000 for Detroit Firefighter's Benevolent Fund and a Chrysler Gem and Dodge 3500 Heavy Duty Pickup for the Detroit Fire Department at the DaimlerChrysler Firehouse. Officials pictured with LaSorda are, from left, Tyrome Scott, Detroit Fire Commissioner, Anthony Adams, Detroit Deputy Mayor and James Montgomery, president of the Detroit Firemen's Fund. DaimlerChrysler annually entertains media and auto industry guests during the North American International Auto Show. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:54 PM | View the original post
Movie-theater-style Flix concept vehicle.
Last year, American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) launched its “Suzuki LIVE Series” (LIFE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.
The 2007 vehicles, coined BaseCamp for outdoor adventure enthusiasts; Flix for film and entertainment buffs; Zuk for motorcycle and racing aficionados; and SXBox for avid gamers; are on display at various auto shows and lifestyle events.
Flix
Built by the Carlab of Orange, Calif., and based on the all-new 2007 XL7, the Flix concept offers film and entertainment enthusiasts the ultimate mobile movie experience.
In addition to its eye-catching exterior appearance, the Flix is outfitted with an unprecedented in-vehicle movie system. After parking at the optimal film-viewing destination, Flix’s clamshell roof can be opened, revealing a maximum-size moonroof that serves as a 60-inch movie screen. Additionally, the XL7 concept’s front roof panel vents, giving way to a high-density digital projection system to display a family’s movie of choice. For those who prefer the traditional drive-in movie experience, Flix’s projection system can be positioned to display movies nearly anywhere – the side of a building, a billboard or almost any wall.
The interior look of the Flix resembles a contemporary private screening room, dressed in plush materials to evoke elegance and sophistication. The XL7 concept features four individual bucket seats that pivot 180 degrees to view the elevated giant screen. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:26 PM | View the original post
PHOTO: The Pepsi Super Bowl can is inspired by 40 years of Super Bowl rings. Crafted from sterling silver and inlaid with diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, the can is estimated to be worth $100,000. Beginning January 13, consumers can log onto www.SuperBowl.com/Pepsi to learn how to register and win the can and Super Bowl tickets for life. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:24 PM | View the original post
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