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GMC CarbonPro Bed Start Production In June

GMC is taking its CarbonPro carbon-fiber bed into limited production in June for the 2019 model year and making it into its own edition.
GMC announced the CarbonPro when the 2019 GMC Sierra Denali debuted back in March 2018. GMC says that at first, the CarbonPro edition will be available in limited numbers of Denali and AT4 models and will expand availability of the package in those trims for 2020.  
The CarbonPro bed is lighter than a steel bed by about 60 pounds, but has much stronger durability and scratch resistance.  Carbon fiber is naturally corrosion resistant, making the GMC CarbonPro edition the most corrosion resistant bed in the industry.
Additionally, the CarbonPro bed has best in class cargo volume, increasing the cargo capacity over the steel bed by 1 cubic foot.  Tire indentations are in place at the front wall for motorcycles, and two additional tie downs are installed on the front wall. 
GMC tested the durability of the bed in extreme scenarios by dropping cinder blocks, 1800 lbs of gravel, and 450-pound water filled steel drums into the bed.  A generator was used to test the high heat exposure durability by aiming the exhaust directly at the corner of the bed. GMC even drove a Snowmobile with a studded track onto the bed and then accelerated at full throttle resulting in only minimal scratching of the material.
The CarbonPro bed comes with GMC's Multi-pro talegate
The GMC Denali and AT4 Carbon Pro Editions go on sale this summer.

  • ...best in class dent and corrosion resistance...

Drew Dowdell

Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid is Euro Only

Back in January, during the Detroit Auto Show, we found a sign that Ford was preparing a plug-in hybrid Ford Explorer even though it hadn't been officially announced.   A few days ago, Ford did officially unveil it as a Europe only model.
The Ford Explorer Plug-in looks to be using the same running gear as the Lincoln Aviator GT, a 3.0 liter twin-turbo V6 plus electric motor that produces around 444 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque running through its specialized 10-speed transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.  It is able to run for about 25 miles in EV-only mode.
Under the cargo floor is a 13.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, slightly smaller than the battery in the now canceled Chevrolet Volt. 
The plug-in version will only be available on the S-Line and Platinum trim lines. 
Read more about the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator below.
 
Ford of Europe Press Release on Page 2
FORD UNVEILS ALL-NEW EXPLORER PLUG-IN HYBRID SUV WITH 40 KM (25 MILES) ZERO-EMISSION CITY DRIVING RANGE
All-new Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid seven-seat sports utility vehicle to go on sale in Europe later this year Electrified powertrain combines 3.0‑litre EcoBoost petrol engine, electric motor and battery for 450 PS, 840 Nm of torque, and 40 km (25 miles) pure-electric city driving range Vehicle is all-new to Europe and features as standard new Reverse Brake Assist as well as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring Luxurious interior offers 10.1-inch touchscreen for SYNC 3 connectivity and features as standard FordPass Connect modem, B&O Sound System, easy-to-operate flexible seating Versatility, capability and refinement optimised with 10-speed automatic transmission, Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, and Terrain Management System with selectable Drive Modes AMSTERDAM, Netherlands, April. 2, 2019 – The all-new Ford Explorer SUV today made its European debut at a special “Go Further” event in Amsterdam, Netherlands, as Ford announced a unique plug-in hybrid version of America’s all-time best selling SUV will go on sale in Europe later this year.
The all-new Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid will be offered in two distinctive, high-specification, left-hand drive variants – the sporty, Ford Performance-inspired Explorer ST-Line and the luxurious Explorer Platinum. Both are powered by a combination of Ford’s 3.0‑litre EcoBoost V6 petrol engine, electric motor and generator to deliver 450 PS and 840 Nm of torque, alongside pure-electric driving capability.
Standard Ford Intelligent All-Wheel drive technology supported by seven Drive Modes and Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission optimises performance in scenarios from urban driving to off-road. A refined and confidence-inspiring driving experience is enhanced with sophisticated driver assistance technologies as standard, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring functionalities.
The exceptionally spacious, luxurious, comfort-focussed interior offers advanced features including a 10.1‑inch central portrait-mounted touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster display. Families can get the most from road trips with versatile load and seating configurations and family-friendly innovations such as easy entrance and exit to the third row seats using just one hand.
“I am very excited about the iconic Ford Explorer coming to Europe. The all-new Explorer comes with unstoppable design and phenomenal specification. The most versatile SUV we have ever offered for customers in the region is able to carry seven adults in comfort, tow a 2,500 kg trailer with ease, and still deliver 40 km (25 miles) zero-emissions city driving range,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe. “Technologies like our 10.1-inch touchscreen and Reverse Brake Assist debut in Europe to make the Explorer Plug-In Hybrid supremely rewarding and easy to drive.”
New from the ground-up the all-new sixth generation Ford Explorer was unveiled for customers in the U.S. earlier this year. First introduced in 1991, Explorer kick-started in the U.S. the rapid growth of the SUV segment that has now become immensely successful worldwide.
Zero-emission driving
The all-new Explorer Plug-In Hybrid delivers the energy-efficiency, refinement and performance benefits of an electrified powertrain in many driving scenarios, while maintaining the driving range of a traditional combustion engine. An electric-only urban cycle driving range of 40 km (25 miles) qualifies for tax breaks in some markets.
Ford’s 350 PS 3.0-litre EcoBoost engine is supported by a 100 PS electric motor. The 13.1 kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged using a charging port located on the front left-hand side fender between the door and wheel arch. In addition, the battery is automatically replenished on the move using regenerative charging technology that captures kinetic energy normally lost during braking.
The electric motor enables the Explorer to deliver zero-emission, pure-electric driving capability, and drivers can choose when and how to deploy battery power using EV Auto, EV Now, EV Later and EV Charge modes. When the battery reaches its lowest state-of-charge, the Explorer automatically reverts to EV Auto mode – supplementing petrol engine power with electric motor assistance using recaptured energy for optimised fuel-efficiency. The Explorer Plug-In Hybrid will deliver anticipated 78 g/km CO2 emissions and 3.4 l/100 km fuel efficiency.*
The Explorer Plug-In Hybrid’s parallel hybrid architecture also enables the full combined power and torque of both petrol engine and electric motor to be deployed simultaneously for enhanced performance on- and off-road, and 2,500 kg towing capability. Ford’s sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission further optimises fuel-efficiency and refinement.
“The Explorer is a true SUV – designed for families with a real sense of adventure – so it was essential that the Explorer Plug-In Hybrid featured a powertrain that could haul anything from boats to horseboxes,” said Matthias Tonn, Explorer chief programme engineer for Europe. “We specifically chose a parallel hybrid architecture that lets drivers use all 450 PS and 840 Nm of torque. We’ve even added a more advanced version of our Blind Spot Information System, that covers a 10 metre trailer.”
Advanced Intelligent All-Wheel Drive technology every 10 milliseconds analyses inputs from dozens of sensors, including vehicle speed and yaw, ambient air temperature, wheel slip and towing status to determine whether additional traction is needed. An all-new single speed transfer case featuring an electro-mechanical torque clutch can seamlessly adjust torque delivery between the front and rear wheels within 100 milliseconds for a more secure footing on the road. Like the 10-speed automatic transmission, the system uses adaptive learning algorithms to continually adjust responses for optimised refinement.
The Terrain Management System uses selectable Drive Modes to enable customers to tailor their drive experience to road, weather and terrain conditions on demand, including Normal, Sport, Trail, Slippery, Tow/Haul, Eco, and Deep Snow and Sand modes – with each Drive Mode featuring a unique graphical display in the 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Hill Descent Control also helps make light work of off-road terrain.
Stress-free journeys in town and country
Sophisticated driver assistance technologies contribute to a refined and intuitive driving experience for Explorer Plug-In Hybrid customers, including features designed to make it easier to drive a large vehicle in urban environments.
Available Active Park Assist 2 enables fully-automated manoeuvres into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces at the push of a button. The system identifies suitable parking spaces and the driver can control vehicle motion by simply selecting neutral and holding down a single centre console-mounted button. The vehicle then fully controls forward and reverse gear selection, throttle and braking, as well as steering to manoeuvre into spaces before engaging park. The technology can also help drivers exit parallel parking spaces using fully automated Park-out Assist.
Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may soon be crossing behind them, and can apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate the effects of collisions if drivers do not respond to warnings. In addition, Reverse Brake Assist uses radar and ultrasonic sensors to detect an object in the vehicle’s path, and can apply the brakes automatically to avoid an imminent collision when the vehicle is backing up at a low speed – such as when exiting a driveway. Also helping drivers negotiate awkward scenarios, rear-view and front-view cameras with built-in lens cleaners combine with additional cameras mounted beneath the door mirrors to provide a 360-degree view around the vehicle projected on to the central display.
Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection technology can detect people and cyclists in or near the road ahead, or who may cross the vehicle’s path, and automatically apply the brakes if it detects a potential collision and the driver does not respond to warnings.
Stop-start traffic, highway driving and long distance road trips are made less stressful using Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring. The technology helps the Explorer Plug-In Hybrid maintain a comfortable driving distance from vehicles ahead and can help keep the vehicle centred in its lane. In addition, the technology can adjust the vehicle speed to within legal limits by monitoring the roadside and overhead gantries for speed signs in addition to using information from the on-board navigation system.
Stop & Go enables the ACC system to bring the vehicle to a complete halt in stop-start traffic, and automatically pull away if the stopping duration is less than 3 seconds. For stopping durations greater than 3 seconds, the driver can push a steering wheel button or gently apply the accelerator pull away.
Lane-Centring technology monitors road markings and can apply gentle but discernible torque to the steering system to help drivers stay centred in their lane whenever the ACC system is activated. Designed to support drivers at speeds up to 200 km/h (125 mph), the technology will deliver visual and audible warnings if it detects a lack of steering wheel input from the driver.
Further technologies to help drivers avoid or mitigate the effects of accidents include Ford’s Lane-Keeping System, and Evasive Steering Assist that provides steering support to help avoid a collision. Post-Impact Braking provides braking after a collision to lessen injury and damage caused by a secondary crash event.
“It’s not about filling the vehicle with technology for technology’s sake,” said Torsten Wey, manager, Driver Assistance and Safety Technology, Ford of Europe. “It’s about improving the experience, making driving less stressful, and helping the driver to feel more confident behind the wheel.”
Capable and comfortable
Standing more than 5 metres long, 2 metres wide and almost 2 metres high, the all-new Explorer Plug-In Hybrid delivers the luxury of space for up to seven occupants in three rows of seats.
First and second row passengers benefit from more than 1 metre of headroom and legroom, and more than 1.5 metres of shoulder room. Offering 96 centimetres headroom, more than 1 metre of shoulder room and more than 83 centimetres legroom, the third row of seats can also easily accommodate adults in comfort.
Standard Easy Fold Seats with Power Raise for the third row and Easy Fold Seats for the second row fold flat to create a cargo area that offers 2,274 litres of load space. The interior offers 123 litres of stowage space throughout the cabin, giving passengers in all three rows no shortage of places to stow personal items – alongside no less than 12 cupholders.
A rotary gear shift dial for the 10-speed automatic transmission; heated and cooled 10-way power adjustable front seats; heated second row seats; wireless charging pad for compatible devices; heated steering wheel; retractable second row sunshades; and second and third row privacy glass are among the comfort enhancing features delivered as standard. Platinum models also feature a 14-speaker, 1000-watt premium B&O Sound System as standard, with a 12-speaker, 800-watt premium B&O Sound System for ST-Line variants.
FordPass Connect embedded modem technology turns the Explorer Plug-In Hybrid into a mobile WiFi hotspot with connectivity for up to 10 devices. In addition to helping drivers plan faster, less stressful journeys with Live Traffic updates for the navigation system and enabling occupants to stream entertainment on the move, FordPass Connect allows a range of convenient features via the FordPass mobile app, including:
Vehicle Locator, helping owners find their SUV in sprawling shopping mall car parks Vehicle Status, for checking fuel levels, alarm status, oil life and more Door Lock Unlock, to remotely allow access to your vehicle Remote Start** The 10.1-inch portrait mounted touchscreen – standard for the Platinum variant – enables navigation maps to fill the entire screen for easy viewing, or split the space with audio information. The screen uses capacitive glass comparable to that used in smartphones and tablets, providing a quicker, more responsive interaction with the SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, which also allows drivers to control audio, navigation and climate functions plus connected smartphones using simple voice commands.
The touch screen shares information with the available 12.3-inch all-digital instrument cluster, configured to support drivers in getting the most from their Explorer Plug-In Hybrid powertrain with dedicated screens including power flow, charging and energy-efficiency coaching. An 8‑inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are standard for the ST-Line variant.
Stylish, modern design
A number of consistent design qualities have helped define Explorer during 29 years of success in the U.S., and the design team strived to hold on to these important pieces of heritage when designing the all-new generation. Longtime traits include Explorer’s blacked-out front and rear window pillars. A sporty, stylish appearance is achieved using a sloping roofline and short front overhang.
The Explorer Plug-In Hybrid comes standard with bold 20-inch alloy wheels with black machined finish for ST-Line models and tarnished dark machined finish for Platinum models.
ST-Line models feature a gloss black finish one-piece grille, and high gloss black for the roof rails tailgate applique and door claddings. The interior also features red accent stitching for seats, floor mats and sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, as well as carbon fibre-effect appliques for the instrument panel.
Platinum models feature a satin finish one-piece grille, and satin finish for the roof rails tailgate applique and door claddings. The interior also adds real wood appliques for the instrument panel.
“Massive charisma and unprecedented road presence come as standard with our all-new Explorer Plug-In Hybrid,” Matthias Tonn said. “With distinctive ST-Line and Platinum variants available, customers can find the right option to suit their personality.”
# # #

  • ...no plans for the US...

Drew Dowdell

Infiniti Qs Inspiration Leaks Out Ahead of Shanghai

Infiniti's Qs Inspiration sedan that was teased a few days ago has leaked out ahead of the Shanghai Motor Show.  The Inspiration Qs is a preview of what an Infiniti electric car will look like. 
The EV that comes from the Qs Inspiration's ..er.. inspiration will be manufactured and sold in China in about 3 years.  There are no plans yet to export that car to other markets.  Infiniti has said that by 2021 all newly launched models will be EVs or "e-Power" hybrids. 
For the Qs Inspiration, designer Karim Habib had a freer hand in the design as EVs do not have the bulk of the mechanicals the accompany internal combustion engines.  Floors can be flat and interior room can be greatly increased.  
Infiniti will be competing with Tesla, Audi, Polestar, and others in the EV race in China.
We'll have more for you once the official release of the Infiniti Qs Inspiration concept is made in Shanghai.
 

  • ...could be heading for production in China...

Drew Dowdell

Subaru Bringing 2020 Outback to New York

Subaru will be bringing an all-new 2020 Subaru Outback wagon to the New York International Auto Show next week.  Like its predecessor, the Outback will continue to be based on the Legacy sedan.  Subaru debuted the all-new 2020 Legacy sedan at the Chicago Auto Show in February.
We expect many of the updates to carry over from the Legacy. On the Legacy, the overall look doesn't change dramatically, however there is an all new modular platform under the skin with improved torsional rigidity and higher strength steel.   The buy-up H6 engine is dropped in favor of a turbo-charged 2.4 liter boxer four-cylinder that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.  The base engine is a 2.5 liter naturally aspirated boxer 4 with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.   Both engines push their power through a CVT to Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive. 
The interior gets a major update in both design and materials.  An optional 11.6-inch touch screen can be ordered, but otherwise a 7-inch version is standard. 
You can read more about the 2020 Legacy at our article below. We'll have more for you when the 2020 Subaru Outback is shown on April 17th at 11:15 am eastern.
Gallery:
 

  • ...update to old faithful...

Drew Dowdell

Tesla Cuts Jobs Again

Following a dismal fall in sales in the previous two quarters, Tesla has sacked several dozen employees in stores in Chicago, New York, and Tampa last week according to a report in Bloomberg.  These cuts are the latest in a series of cuts to Tesla's retail staff that Tesla had announced earlier in the year.  At first, Tesla had announced it would close most of its retail locations and moving to an entirely online retail model. They later changed course and dialed back the reductions with the caveat that some locations would still be closing. Tesla then raised the prices on the more expensive Model 3 trims 
Most of the cuts came from staff who hold the position of Inside Sales and their managers. Inside sales teams reach out to potential buyers and stimulate interest with test drives. 

  • ...dozens sacked via teleconference..

Drew Dowdell

Nissan, and the Next Frontier

The Jeep Gladiator is new. While it is based on older underpinnings and a somewhat dated interior, the Ford Ranger is the second newest truck in the U.S. market.  Behind that is the just-refreshed but still on an older chassis Toyota Tacoma, that is getting a new platform in a few years. Behind that is the Honda Ridgeline.  Behind that are the GM twins of Colorado and Canyon which came out in 2012. And finally, behind those two, the oldest small/midsize truck is the Nissan Frontier, trucking on since 2004 without a major redesign.   Put into some perspective, the current Nissan Frontier is only one year younger than the previous generation of Colorado and Canyon.  As far as the automotive industry goes, that is ancient, but Frontier buyers don't seem to mind. Nissan sold nearly 79,646 Frontier trucks in 2018, a 7.1% increase over 2017.  That's with all the new competition coming on the market and without any major incentives.  That makes it the brands third best seller in the crossover/truck segment after Rogue and Murano. 
People wanting something a bit fresher from Nissan still have about 18 months to wait. The next Frontier, sold as a 2021 model, should arrive in dealerships in the Fall of 2020. People who have seen previews of the truck describe it as "futuristic" and "Modern, but still looks like a truck".  It will get a new 300 horsepower V6 engine replacing the current 4.0 V6 and the 5-speed automatic will be upgraded to a 7-speed. 
However, unlike the Tacoma, which is moving to an all new platform in a few years. The Frontier will get a heavily revised version of its current frame.  Nissan opted not to go with their global Navara truck platform primarily because it is too small to compete with the likes of the Ranger and Gladiator.  It also uses a more expensive coil spring rear suspension instead of the traditional leaf springs. 
With the Ford Ranger and Jeep Gladiator now entering the market, Nissan wants to catch up and be the newest kid on the block, if only for a little while.

  • ...the oldest small truck on the market is about to get a redesign...

Drew Dowdell

Mercedes-AMG Unveils the CLA 35

Mercedes took the wraps off the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 ahead of its debut at the New York International Auto Show next week.   The CLA 35 is the sleeker, more coupe-like version of the Mercedes-AMG A 35 Sedan that was unveiled two weeks ago. Much of the same hardware that goes into the A 35 is here in the CLA 35 as well.
Power is rated for 302 hp at 5800 RPM and 295 lb-ft of torque between 3,000 and 4,000 rpm from the 2.0 liter twin scroll turbocharged engine. 4Matic all-wheel drive is standard and can run in front-wheel drive mode or an even 50-50 split front to rear. 
Like the A 35, the CLA also gets body reinforcements to help with torsional rigidity (which makes us wonder about the non-AMG cars - DD). The interior gets an update to the MBUX system that allows you to say "Hey Mercedes!" to control certain in-car functions.
You can read more about the A 35 AMG  here.
The Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 will officially debut at the New York Auto Show on April 17th at 10:15 eastern.  Stay tuned for more coverage from the show.
Mercedes press release on page 2


Sporty, stylish, intelligent and dynamic: The new CLA 35 is the latest point of entry to the world of Mercedes-AMG. The four- door coupe shares the progressive technology with the A-Class, but is even bolder with its iconic design and the intelligent MBUX interior assistant. The high torque 2.0L Inline-4 turbo engine delivers 302 hp, distributed to all four wheels via the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and variable all- wheel drive. Sporty driving performance (acceleration from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds est.) is combined with a range of versatile driving experiences - from very sporty to refined and comfortable on long journeys.
"With its iconic design and agile driving dynamics, the new CLA 35 is an attractive offer for a young, active and lifestyle-conscious target group. These customers define their requirements very clearly: They expect exciting design from their vehicle alongside superior performance and inspiring handling characteristics. The new CLA 35 embodies just this attitude to life – and  enables stepping in to the fascinating world of AMG Driving Performance in a particularly emotional way,"says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
Icon with a sporty design: the exterior
The unique design of the CLA Coupe is one of the new model's key purchase reasons. The AMG designers therefore aimed to maintain its basic form with wide wheel arches and a slim profile. The two power domes on the hood were also adopted as sporty details. The new radiator grille with classic twin louvers and an AMG front bumper with flics on the air inlets are distinctive features of the CLA 35. Other distinguishing characteristics include silver chrome trim elements in the outer air inlets. From a side view, the aerodynamically optimized 18-inch light-alloy wheels in twin-spoke design (19-inch wheels are optionally available) and the accentuated side sills catch the eye. The rear bumper with a new diffuser insert, the small spoiler lip on the trunk and the two round tailpipes on the left and right dominate the rear view. The two-piece, narrow tail lamps and the license plate housing placed low in the bumper add to the CLA's wide rear appearance.
Sporty interior featuring MBUX infotainment system
Frameless doors open to an interior with a high-tech ambience, where quality and elegance meet digital displays. The interior scene can be catered to specific tastes thanks to the standard 64 color ambient lighting. The distinctive interior design is evident with the available MB-Tex and microfiber DINAMICA in black with red contrasting stitching and red seat belts, as well as in the available combination of MB-Tex in black/digital grey. Red piping on the microfiber DINAMICA trim elements and ventilation outlets with a red ring are additional unique accents.
The combination of a sporty design with sophisticated details is also evident in the MBUX infotainment system with its innovative operation and display. In the new CLA 35, MBUX replaces the previous COMAND systems and creates an even closer connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers.
Appealing presentations underline the clear control structure and feature brilliant maximum-resolution 3D graphics. Visually, the two displays under one shared glass cover blend into a Widescreen Cockpit, and consequently emphasize the horizontal orientation of the interior design.
With the newly available MBUX interior assistant, select infotainment functions can be operated without touch, along with switching the reading light on or off. The assistant differentiates between driver and passenger interaction and recognizes certain hand positions and movements. The interaction area for the MBUX interior assistant is in front of the media display up to the center console, including the touchpad between the driver and front-seat passenger.
The MBUX interior assistant recognizes movement toward the various operating elements of the infotainment system. The operator's seat is enlarged on the media display if one's hand moves toward the touchscreen. The most suitable operating elements are automatically pre-selected. In the radio and media menu, the MBUX interior assistant reduces the number of operating steps. In the navigation menu, the system fades in the display as soon as the hand moves to operate the touchscreen or touchpad, so that a symbol is selected directly. When displaying the camera image, as soon as the hand moves toward the touchscreen the MBUX interior assistant enables the four camera operating symbols from the 360-degree camera to be faded in. This means that the front, rear, right or left camera view can be selected directly.
The CLA 35 also comes with our new trailblazing voice control, activated with the words "Hey Mercedes". Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX recognizes and understands nearly all sentences from the fields of infotainment and  vehicle operation, even if they are expressed indirectly.
Fully digital instrument cluster with three AMG display styles
Customers can choose between three AMG display styles for the instrument cluster: "Classic", "Sport"and "Supersport". The "Supersport"mode is particularly striking, with a central, round rev counter and additional information presented in the form of bars to the left and right. Via the AMG menu, the driver can call up various special displays such as Warm-up, Set-up, G-Force and Engine Data.
Touchscreen multimedia display and new center console
The 10.25 inch touchscreen multimedia display also emphasizes the dynamic character with individual AMG displays, such as visualization of the driving programs, AMG TRACK PACE and telemetry data.
The AMG-specific center console in piano black finish with standard touchpad has additional buttons that control the functions of ESP®, manual transmission mode and the Adaptive Damping System. When combined with the optional leather package, it also features a silver chrome surround.
New AMG steering wheel generation with optional steering wheel buttons
The next generation of AMG steering wheels provide the perfect link between the driver and the vehicle. The steering wheel rim with a flat-bottom, perforated leather in the grip area and red contrasting topstitching is both attractive and pleasant to the touch. The galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles allow an even sportier driving style with manual gear shifting.
The built-in Touch Control buttons, familiar from some of our other models, are a new feature. The Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and cruise control can be adjusted on the control panels on the left. The control panels on the right activate the voice control and telephone, and regulate the sound volume, music selection and other functions of the infotainment system.
The steering wheel with innovative AMG steering wheel buttons is available as an option. These consist of a round controller with an integrated display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke, plus two vertically positioned color display buttons with switches beneath the left-hand steering-wheel spoke. The AMG drive programs are actuated directly via the controller. With the two configurable display buttons and the additional switches, further AMG functions can be controlled within easy reach directly on the steering wheel.
Reinforced body-in-white with increased torsional rigidity
Specific measures to strengthen the front section of the bodyshell help enable the precise turn-in ability and the toe and camber stability of the chassis, even when driving at speed. A "shear panel", a bolted aluminum plate under the engine, also increases the torsional stiffness of the front section of the CLA 35. Two additional diagonal braces at the front of the underbody also reduce torsion and increase rigidity.
New four-cylinder turbo engine with 302 hp
The 2.0L Inline-4 turbo engine is a new development and is based on the M260 four-cylinder engine in the new A-Class. The new drive boasts a quick response to accelerator pedal commands, high torque (295 lb-ft max. torque from 3,000 rpm), a lively response and an emotional engine sound. The crankcase made of high-strength, lightweight die-cast aluminum reduces the vehicle weight where it matters most for driving dynamics.
The twin-scroll turbocharger combines optimum responsiveness at low engine speeds with a significant power increase at higher engine speeds. The housing of the twin-scroll turbocharger is divided into two parallel ducts. Together with two separate ducts in the exhaust manifold, this makes it possible to channel the exhaust gases separately on the turbine wheel.
This results in a further advantage of twin-scroll technology -- minimization of the mutually adverse effects of the individual cylinders on the gas cycle. The exhaust gas backpressure is reduced and gas exchange and engine  efficiency are improved.
Numerous engine measures increase efficiency
The high technological standards of the new four-cylinder engine are also underscored by numerous efficiency-enhancing measures. These include CAMTRONIC variable valve control, intelligent thermal management for engine and oil, high-precision piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition. In production,  the patented CONICSHAPE® cylinder honing reduces internal engine friction and also increases efficiency.
Agile gear ratios: AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Transmission
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Transmission also contributes to the agile and dynamic character of the new CLA 35. The gear ratios are configured so that the driver experiences very responsive acceleration in all speed ranges, combined with fast shifting and optimum connections when upshifting.
The standard RACE-START function allows maximum acceleration from a stationary position and is a high performance experience. The functions of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed transmission also include a temporary manual shift mode activated by operating the steering wheel shift paddles in any driving mode, and with the manual transmission mode "M"for manual gear changes with the shift paddles.
AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive
Dynamism, agility and performance – these three attributes characterize the standard all-wheel drive of the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 35. The variable AMG 4MATIC+ combines the best possible traction with driving pleasure. The torque distribution is variable to suit the dynamic handling requirements. The spectrum ranges from front-wheel drive only to a 50:50 percent distribution to the front and rear axles.
A multi-disc clutch that is integrated in the  rear  axle  transmission is responsible for the variable torque distribution between the  front  and  rear axles. It is controlled electro-mechanically. The influencing factors for torque distribution are the driving speed, the lateral and longitudinal acceleration and the steering angle, and the difference in  rotational  speed  between  the individual wheels, the gear selected and the accelerator position.
The main advantages of electro-mechanical control over an electro-hydraulic system relate to more refined driving dynamics – primarily due to the significantly faster response and speed-independent actuation of the discs over the entire adjustment range.
As long as ESP® is activated, the 4MATIC+ system stays in "Comfort"mode. As soon as the driver presses the "ESP® SPORT Handling"or "ESP® OFF"button, the 4MATIC+ system switches to "Sport"mode – for even more agile handling and even higher stability limits.
Five driving programs: vehicle characteristics with a wide spread
The five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Slippery,""Comfort,""Sport,""Sport +"and "Individual"enable a wide range of vehicle characteristics from comfortable to dynamic. They change relevant parameters, such as the responsiveness of the engine and transmission.
The new "Slippery"drive program is optimized for low-grip, icy road conditions, with reduced power and a flat torque curve. Smooth gear changes and earlier upshifts support a more stable driving character.
The "Comfort"program stands for comfortable and fuel-efficient driving, for example, thanks to early upshifts. Suspension and steering are set up for an emphasis on comfort.
"Sport"and "Sport+"place the focus on agility and driving pleasure with sporty engine and transmission tuning. The sound of the  turbo  engine  is  more striking. "Sport+"is particularly exciting with double-declutching during downshifts and partial cylinder cut-off via a brief and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection at full load.
The "Individual"drive program enables specific parameters to be selected and saved according to personal preferences. In addition, the gliding function is available in the "Reduced"and "Moderate"drive settings.
AMG DYNAMICS: more agility with high stability
As a new feature in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the new CLA 35 comes with AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated dynamic handling control system extends the stabilizing functions of ESP® with responsive interventions according to the driver's wishes. During dynamic cornering, imperceptible braking intervention on the rear inside wheel creates a defined yawing moment about the vertical axis. The effect: the CLA 35 steers quickly and very precisely.
The different modes of AMG DYNAMICS are called "Basic"and "Advanced."When a drive program is selected on the multimedia display, the new AMG DYNAMICS symbol is displayed with the corresponding additional information.
"Basic"is assigned to the "Slippery"and "Comfort"drive programs. In this case, the CLA 35 shows very stable handling with a high damping of the yaw rate. "Advanced"is activated in the programs "Sport"and "Sport+."The CLA 35 remains neutrally balanced. The lower yaw damping, lower steering angle requirement and enhanced agility support dynamic maneuvers, such as driving on winding country roads. In the "Individual"drive program the driver can set the AMG DYNAMICS levels individually.
AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension
The layout of the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension provides solid straight-line stability and highly dynamic cornering performance. The longitudinal and transverse dynamics are optimally coordinated.
A McPherson strut construction is fitted on the front axle. The suspension is comprised of one wishbone below the wheel center, one spring strut and one tie rod. The special axle geometry reduces the influence of the drive on the steering – for high comfort and agile handling. The new wishbone in aluminum reduces unsprung mass, enabling a more sensitive response from the springs. The AMG-specific front steering knuckle has a radially bolted brake calliper – a technology originating from motorsport.
The 4-link rear axle is connected with the body via a subframe. Three transverse arms and the trailing arm, the wheel carrier and the bearings from the proven A 45 are used on each rear wheel. This ensures maximum driving stability and agility.
Adaptive damping system with three modes
The optional Adaptive Damping System enables the driver to choose between three different suspension control modes. The spectrum ranges from comfort- focused to sporty. The system operates fully automatically, adapting the damping forces for each wheel according to the driving situation and road conditions. This happens within milliseconds and is infinitely variable, with a wide spread of damping characteristics. The result is that ride comfort and agility are both enhanced.
Robust high-performance brake system
The high-performance braking system enables fade-resistant deceleration and short braking distances. The front axle is fitted with new 4-piston monoblock fixed callipers and 13.8 inch brake discs, while the rear axle is equipped with 1-piston sliding callipers and 13.0 inch brake discs. The discs are ventilated   and perforated to dissipate heat and reduce brake fading, even with heavy use. The silver-painted brake callipers have black AMG lettering.
Steering with special rack and variable ratio
The speed-sensitive, electro-mechanical power steering supports a sporty driving style with its direct turn-in ability. It has a special rack with variable ratio and two characteristic curves: depending on the drive program the driver has selected, it provides taut and sporty or more comfortable steering feedback. The rigid mounting in the integral carrier connects the steering with the body and thus increases steering precision.
AMG exhaust system with exhaust flap for sound modulation
The exhaust system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap as standard. Depending on the drive program selected, it modulates the sound from balanced to powerful.
AMG TRACK PACE data log
AMG TRACK PACE is also available as an option for the new CLA 35. The virtual race engineer is part of the MBUX infotainment system and permanently records more than 80 vehicle-specific data measures (e.g. speed, acceleration). On top of this, lap and sector times are displayed, as well as the respective difference to a reference time. Because specific display elements are shown in green or red, the driver is able to see at a glance without reading numbers whether they are currently faster or slower than the best time.
After putting in some fast laps, the driver can use the data to analyze and, if necessary, improve their driving skills. In addition, acceleration and deceleration values (e.g. 0-60 mph, ¼ mile, 60-0 mph) can be measured and saved. Thanks to a newly developed algorithm which determines the vehicle position as precisely as possible, AMG TRACK PACE even detects when the track has been left or if it has been shortened. This is possible using GPS data as well as the sensors available in the vehicle (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds).
The logged data is displayed on the multimedia display, in the instrument cluster and on the optional head-up display. Well-known racetracks like, for example, the Nürburgring or Spa Francorchamps, are already stored.
Furthermore, it is also possible to record one's own circuits. The map display can be switched from 2D to 3D and be updated online.
The MBUX Augmented Reality function also allows the ideal line of a stored racetrack to be displayed on the multimedia display or on the optional head-up display, allowing the driver to improve lap times with a virtual instructor on board.
World premiere and market launch
The new Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 celebrates its world premiere as part of the New York International Auto Show on April 16, 2019 and will be available in U.S. dealerships starting late 2019.
Data at a glance
 
2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35
Engine
2.0L Inline-4 turbo
Displacement
1991 cc
Max. output
302 hp at 5800 rpm
Peak torque
295 lb-ft at 3000-4000 rpm
Drive system
AMG 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
Transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Transmission
Acceleration 0-60 mph
4.6 s est
Top speed
TBA*
* electronically limited

  • ... the sleeker version of the A 35 AMG Sedan...

Drew Dowdell

It's Technically Possible To Drop A Hellcat Into Wrangler and Gladiator

Hellcat everything has become a bit of a running joke with any vehicle from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Pacifica? Drop a Hellcat. 500? Needs a Hellcat. Charger? Two Hellcats is just what the doctor ordered. The latest vehicles to get the attention from the Hellcat crowd are the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator.
Tim Kuniskis, the head of the Jeep brand told Australian outlet Drive that it is technically possible to fit the Hellcat V8 into both vehicles.
"Everybody always asks me that question: it fits. You know that. It fits like a glove."
But there comes a big issue.
"But the problem is that it fits like a glove and there is no air space around the engine and the whole external space of the vehicle so you have no crush space; you have nothing that can be used to absorb energy in a crash," said Kuniskis.
"It is not a problem to put it in - other than emissions and fuel economy - except it would never pass any crash tests, and that’s a problem."
So those hoping for a factory model will be disappointed, but the aftermarket will be there to serve those who really want a mad Wrangler or Gladiator.
Source: Drive

  • But there's a bit of a problem

William Maley

Review: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SEL S-AWC

I was a bit surprised when I got word that I would be spending a few days with a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross only a few weeks after doing a brief first drive. As I noted in my report, I came away pretty impressed with certain aspects of this latest contender in the compact crossover class. But there were some items that I needed more time to mess around with such as the infotainment system and powertrain. With a bit more time behind the wheel, how would Mitsubishi’s newest model fare? 
As I talked about in my quick first drive, Mitsubishi’s design staff went crazy with the Eclipse Cross. Sharp angles, a split shape for the tailgate, and aggressive front end treatment will draw a lot of comment. But credit should be given to the design team as they have created something that does stand out in a very crowded class. The polarizing design can be toned down a lot if you choose a different color than the red as seen on my tester. 
Sadly, that polarizing design doesn’t carry into the interior. But the plain look does allow for most controls to be easy to find and reach. Only the placement of the trip computer controls (behind the steering wheel) and climate control (nestled deep in the center stack) will invoke some frustration. Mitsubishi has also made some noticeable improvements to overall interior quality. There are higher quality hard plastics and some soft-touch materials used throughout. Also, there were no glaring build quality concerns that I noticed in the Outlander Sport.
The front seats provide decent support for short trips, but I was wishing for more padding after doing a day trip to Ohio. The sloping roofline and large sunroof will eat into rear headroom, but legroom is decent for most passengers. Cargo space is on the low side with 22.6 cubic feet with the seats up and 48.9 cubic feet when folded. The sloping tailgate design does also mean you’ll need to plan carefully as to how you plan on loading cargo.
Mitsubishi equips all Eclipse Cross models with a seven-inch touchscreen, but only the LE and above get a free-standing version with a touchpad controller. The touchpad controller reminds a lot of the Lexus’ Remote Touch system and its issues. Both systems exhibit some slowness to respond when your finger is moving across the pad. At least the Mitsubishi system has a touchscreen as another input method, but you’ll be stretching your arm to use it. The graphics and overall performance do trail competitors, but it is a huge step forward when compared to the previous systems Mitsubishi has installed. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are standard on LE models and above.
A new turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder powers the Eclipse Cross. Output is rated at 152 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. All models come with a CVT and the choice of either front or Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel-Control (S-AWC). During my first drive, I came away mostly impressed with the turbo-four as it moved the vehicle with subtle verve around town. This still held true during my time with the vehicle. But I did find the engine runs out of steam at higher speeds, making it somewhat difficult to pass quickly when traveling on the highway. Also, the engine does sound somewhat unrefined in hard acceleration. The CVT is similar; providing excellent performance around town, but noticeably struggles on the highway. 
EPA fuel economy on the Eclipse Cross SEL S-AWC is 25 City/26 Highway/25 Combined. My average for the five-day period I had the vehicle landed around 27.2 on a 70/30 mix of highway and city driving.
Despite the Eclipse name on the vehicle, this is not a sporty crossover. There is pronounced body lean and the steering feels noticeably light. But for most buyers, this is not a big issue. They’re more concerned about how the Eclipse Cross rides and the news is better. The suspension does a great job of absorbing most bumps. Wind noise is kept to very acceptable levels, but there was a fair amount of road noise coming inside - especially when traveling on the highway. This makes long trips somewhat tiring.
While many enthusiasts may bemoan the fact that Mitsubishi is using the Eclipse name on a crossover, I’ll be the first to admit this is their best vehicle in quite some time. The design and turbo engine help the model stand out in what is becoming a quite crowded class. Plus, the starting price of $23,295 for the base ES makes it quite tempting. Still, the Eclipse Cross does trail the pack in terms of comfort, cargo space, and performance at higher speeds. There is room for improvement, but Mitsubishi has most of the basics right on the money.
Disclaimer: Mitsubishi Provided the Eclipse Cross, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas
Year: 2018
Make: Mitsubishi
Model: Eclipse Cross
Trim: SEL S-AWC
Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L Direct-Injected Four-Cylinder
Driveline: CVT, All-Wheel Drive
Horsepower @ RPM: 152 @ 5,550
Torque @ RPM: 184 @ 2,000
Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 25/26/25
Curb Weight: 3,516 lbs
Location of Manufacture: Okazaki, Japan
Base Price: $27,895
As Tested Price: $32,310 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge)
Options:
Touring Package - $2,500.00
Red Diamond Paint - $595.00
Accessory Tonneau Cover - $190.00
Accessory Carpeted Floormats and Portfolio - $135.00

  • ...Making progress in the right direction...

William Maley

A Better Look At The Hyundai Venue

Hyundai released some sketches of their upcoming Venue due to debut at the New York International Auto Show next week.  
The Hyundai Venue will be the smallest and least expensive crossover in the Hyundai lineup.  From the images, we can see what appears to be a 3 door crossover with a deep-set grille similar in shape and texture to the Hyundai Santa Fe. Deep creases run along the sides to pod like tail lamps. 
The interior looks handsome and minimalist with a simple 3 dial HVAC control setup, a touchscreen center display and the same row of buttons found on other Hyundai vehicles. 
It would be interesting if Hyundai does take the route of a 3 door crossover, it might make it a bit of a Hyundai Veloster with a lift kit.  If so, it would certainly be a welcome departure from the standard 4-door crossovers that everyone and their grandmother is producing today. 
The Hyundai Venue will officially debut on April 17th at 10:45am eastern.  Stay tuned for this and other coverage of the New York International Auto Show.
 
(Click images to enlarge)



 

  • ...some sketches released ahead of NYC...

Drew Dowdell

Peugeot Interested in Jaguar-Land Rover; Tata says "Not Interested"

PSA Group is starting to sound a bit desperate for a merger these days.  First they bought GM's Opel Unit for $1.54b, later demanding a roughly 50% refund due to issues stemming from extra rosy sales forecasts and emissions regulations trouble. PSA has quickly turned around the Opel unit into a profit center instead of the loss-maker it was under GM control.
More recently, Peugeot was seen to be dancing with FCA only to be rebuffed when it came to light that any merger between the two companies would come in the form of PSA stock. 
Now PSA Group CEO Carlos Tavares says that he would be interested in a merger with Jaguar Land Rover, saying he would be interested in having a more premium brand above their current DS line. 
Jaguar Land Rover is struggling with sales declines, but parent company Tata has said "There is no truth to the rumor that Tata Motors is looking to divest its stake in JLR". 
So it is back to the dance floor for PSA without a partner.  Lets see who they come up with next. 

  • ...someone seems desperate..

Drew Dowdell

Toyota Tundra and Tacoma to Share Platform

According to an article in Automotive News, Toyota plans to move the Tundra and Tacoma to a shared platform, internally called "F1".  The platform is to be used globally and will require a bit of modularity.  The platform is said to be nearing completion and the next Tundra could be debuting for the 2021 model year. 
The Tacoma will likely join later as it was redesigned in 2015 and given a refresh for 2020 at the Chicago Auto Show along with a bunch of other TRD models like the Sequoia TRD Pro. 
For US consumption, all Tundras and most Tacomas are built at the company's San Antonio, Texas plant. Moving to a single platform would make things easier and cheaper on Toyota.   But what of the other SUVs built on the same platforms?   The Sequoia is largely based on the Tundra and the 4Runner is related (distantly) to the Tacoma.  Those vehicles would likely be refreshed right behind the trucks.  In any case, Toyota is planning on putting some electrification into the new platform. 

  • ...a new modular global platform to underpin both..

Drew Dowdell

Jeep Debuts Six Concepts for Moab Easter Safari

Jeep unveiled six concept Jeep Gladiators for the 53rd Annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari. (click on any of the pics to enlarge)
The Jeep Wayout:  An overland concept that has a roof-top tent and custom canopy The Jeep Flatbill: An extreme 4x4 that has a nod to Motocross culture The Jeep Five-Quarter: A "resto-mod" of the 1968 Jeep M-715 Gladiator-based military vehicle The Jeep J6: Mixes classic Jeep styling with concept and production Jeep Performance Parts and Accessories The Jeep JT Scrambler: A concept that combines retro '80s styling with Jeep Performance Parts The Jeep Gladiator Gravity: Rock-climber themes trail vehicle using launch-ready Jeep Performance parts  
Some of these are clearly just fun concepts to show off the versatility of the Jeep Gladiator, while others like the Gladiator Gravity are vehicles that could potentially be built by a customer with a fat enough checkbook and the Jeep/Mopar performance parts catalog.  One thing we'll say about the Five-Quarter resto-mod, Jeep keeps teasing us with these retro look Jeep trucks and to great fanfare, we think they should just build them.
 
More information is available from the Jeep Press release on Page 2
April 8, 2019 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Jeep® Gladiator will reign supreme at this year’s Easter Jeep Safari as the Jeep and Mopar brands have once again joined forces to create six new, custom-built concept vehicles for the annual event that takes place in Moab, Utah, April 13-21. For the 53rd year, thousands of off-road enthusiasts will head to Moab for the annual Jeep event to participate in a week of technical off-roading on some of the most challenging and scenic terrain in the country.

“The Moab Easter Jeep Safari provides the perfect venue to interact with and gather feedback from our most loyal and passionate customers – the diehard off-road enthusiasts who attend the event each year,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Jeep Brand - North America. “This year’s Safari will mark the debut of the highly anticipated all-new Jeep Gladiator on Moab’s scenic and demanding trails. To celebrate, we are showcasing six fun and ultra-capable new truck-based Jeep concept vehicles that are certain to turn heads and delight the crowd.”

A vast selection of production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts are among the highlights on this year’s collection of Jeep concept vehicles. The Mopar brand develops all Jeep Performance Parts with rigorous specifications and legendary 4x4 capability in mind. This allows Jeep owners to further enhance their stock vehicles with confidence.

“Customization is one of the highest priorities for Jeep brand enthusiasts. This is why we have proactively developed a portfolio of more than 200 exclusive parts and accessories for the all-new Jeep Gladiator,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Parts and Service (Mopar) and Passenger Car Brands, FCA - North America. “This portfolio is backed by a factory warranty and has been put through tens of thousands of hours of development, testing and validation, providing our customers a great array of products and peace of mind. At the 2019 Easter Jeep Safari, we will be inspiring our customers by showcasing just a fraction of what is currently available in our catalog and also some conceptual accessories that might make it into production in the near future.”
 
Jeep Wayout 
The Jeep Wayout concept is a true overlanding vehicle that takes advantage of the all-new Gladiator’s class-leading payload to allow adventure-seekers to go far off the beaten path. The Jeep Wayout is a functional concept that showcases a full roof-top tent and custom, large sprawling canopy.

Wayout’s body-armored exterior features a new Gator Green color that will be available on production Gladiator models. A custom bed rack with an integrated ladder carries the roof-top tent that sleeps two comfortably, while the 270-degree awning with amber LED task lighting helps travelers set up camp when the day is done.
For added convenience, two custom-fit auxiliary fuel tanks are integrated into the bedsides. Also, an ARB on-board air system with a body-mounted quick-disconnect air supply line allows adventurers to travel further off the grid.

For additional capability, a Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit increases ground clearance on top of 17-inch steel wheels that are hugged by 37-inch mud-terrain tires, providing a distinct retro feeling harking back to the original Willys pickups that paved the way for modern Jeep trucks. Furthermore, a 12,000-lb. Warn winch and Jeep Performance Parts snorkel help overcome multiple obstacles – both wet and dry.

Jeep Wayout has a custom integrated roof-rack system for packing gear up top, and the truck bed houses a Mopar/Decked bed-drawer system for added lockable dry storage on long treks. Inside, bed-lined floors, plus trimmed brown leather seats with laser-etched inserts of topographical maps, have been added.

The Jeep Wayout is powered by the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Jeep Flatbill
Designed with the desert lifestyle in mind, the Jeep Flatbill concept is another fun look at the all-new Gladiator, mixed with the extreme thrills of the Motocross world resulting in an unmistakable, loud and rowdy appearance that serves as the ultimate hauler for an array of toys.

On the exterior, the Motocross culture has inspired the vented carbon hood and high-clearance flares, while a custom-designed shortened front bumper and skid plate improve the approach angle. 
  
The Jeep Flatbill is a truck dedicated to dirt bike riding through and through and is fully equipped to handle transport of dirt bikes for any off-road adventure. This is demonstrated by the Flatbill concept’s truck bed, which features a pair of dirt bikes ready for action. With the removal of the tailgate, dedicated wheel ramps have been installed that slide out for easy access and loading. Custom body work on the bed lowers, plus the addition of a tube rear bumper, increases the vehicle’s departure angle for added capability.

Dynatrac Pro-Rock 60 front and rear axles, plus an Off-Road Evolution custom four-inch lift kit, help the Flatbill tackle any obstacle. Large rear bypass shocks along with 20-inch wheels have been added, as well as 40-inch tires – the first time on any Jeep Gladiator – combining to provide superior traction and off-road performance.
 
Inside, bright bed-lined floors plus custom-trimmed seats create a fun and sporty environment.

The Jeep Flatbill is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with a cold-air Mopar intake and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter
Continuing the Easter Jeep Safari tradition of “Resto-Mods” comes the Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter that is a seamless blend of vintage and modern components. The term “Five-Quarter” is a historical nod to Jeep trucks of the past that were one-and-one-quarter tons or “five quarters.”

Starting with a 1968 M-715, this Gladiator-based military vehicle was re-imagined with design and functional improvements to its chassis, drivetrain and cargo configurations, resulting in a truly capable showpiece.

On the exterior, the original front sheet metal was removed and a full carbon-fiber front end takes its place. Also, an all-new, bobbed 6-foot custom-fabricated aluminum bed was installed that has been perforated and re-imaged using a mix of water jet cut panels and wood slats. Additional body modifications include a 3.5-inch drop to its convertible soft-top, further enhancing its factory monster truck silhouette.

Headlights have been replaced with new HID lights along with LED auxiliary lights for vast outward visibility. Rearward, LED halo lights have been installed in the original taillight buckets. To protect the body, the original rockers were removed and replaced with functional rock rails that run the length of the body side. Modified front Jeep Gladiator Rubicon steel bumpers have been installed, which complement the brushed metal-finished body and tailgate, producing a polished look.

The M-715 Five-Quarter’s off-road capability has been enhanced by reinforcing the original frame and replacing the leaf springs with a heavy-duty link/coil suspension system. Additionally, the front axle has been pulled forward two inches and replaced with a Dynatrac Pro-rock 60 front axle and a Dynatrac Pro-rock 80 axle in the rear, while 20-inch beadlock wheels are wrapped with large 40-inch tires.
 
Inside, new Jeep Wrangler seats, free of headrests, have been installed for a sleek, low-back visual. Additionally, water-jetted aluminum components make up a new lightweight and premium instrument panel, as well as door panels. A repurposed vintage 8-71 supercharger now serves to encase the transmission and transfer case shifters and the floors have been bed-lined for enhanced durability.

Power is provided to the Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter by a 6.2-liter supercharged “Hellcrate” HEMI® V-8 engine, which produces more than 700 horsepower.

Jeep J6 
The Jeep J6 concept is all truck, all the time, mixing the classic Jeep truck styling of the late 1970s with prototype and production Jeep Performance Parts from Mopar.

The Jeep J6 is a Rubicon customized in a two-door configuration, maximizing cargo space with a large, six-foot functional bed “box” area that is 12 inches longer than the standard Jeep Gladiator bed. Mopar and the Jeep Design team reached back in time for the custom Metallic Brilliant Blue paint, a homage to the exterior look of the 1978 Jeep Honcho. The overall length of the J6 is 201 inches, while the wheelbase clocks in at 118.4 inches, matching the wheelbase of the current-generation Jeep Wrangler 4-door.

The upsized bed area is guarded by a prototype body-color matching spray-in bedliner. A sturdy, two-and-a-quarter-inch steel prototype sport/roll bar planted in the bed carries a set of four, five-inch Jeep Performance Parts LED lights that shine at 4,800 lumens each. A prototype spare tire carrier stores up to a 37-inch tire.

Prototype 17-inch beadlock wheels with a “deep dish” design are set off from the Metallic Brilliant Blue exterior with a Brass Monkey finish, encircled by a silver beadlock ring. A production Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit works with aggressive 37-inch tires to add extra trail clearance.

Additional modifications defend the Jeep J6 against off-road obstacles, including a prototype two-inch steel stinger bar that bolts to the Rubicon front bumper and rock rails customized with two-inch steel tubes welded to the standard Jeep Gladiator rails. The concept hardtop is removable, and classic Jeep J6 badging is swapped in on the tailgate and side fenders.

The stinger bar acts as a mounting point for four additional five-inch Jeep Performance Parts LED lights, with another two bolted on near the A-pillars, for a total of 10 five-inch LEDs working together to illuminate the trail. The grille is custom Mopar Satin Black, and the stock Jeep Gladiator Rubicon hood is accented with Mopar hood latches featuring the Jeep logo.

The 3.6-liter engine receives a performance bump through the Jeep Performance Parts cold-air intake.

Exterior DNA flows into the interior of the Jeep J6. The instrument panel inserts match the body color and Katzkin leather seats and armrests are also accented with body-color blue stitching. The horn pad is customized with a classic Jeep badge. The auxiliary switch bank offers a central operating location for the 10 LED lights, and the trailer brake control switch showcases the ability to tap into additional stopping power when towing. A bright pedal kit, all-weather floor mats and molded doorsill guards with the Jeep logo round out the lineup of Mopar accessories.

Jeep JT Scrambler 
The Jeep JT Scrambler concept is a heritage-inspired remix, carrying the throwback color palette and graphics of the iconic CJ Scrambler crossed with a combination of available Jeep Performance Parts and conceptual touches.

The look of the early 1980s-era CJ8 Scrambler is recreated with prototype Punk’N Metallic Orange and Nacho body-side stripes running from the front panels to the bed and a matching hood graphic. The white exterior is crowned with a freedom top painted in vintage amber, continuing the retro feel.

The bed area is customized with a spray-in bedliner and a two-inch steel, prototype tube sport/roll bar painted body-color white. This version of the sport/roll bar anchors to the bed and also extends the length of the bed rails on each side, offering a total of eight tie-down points to lock down cargo. Diffused LED task lights mounted to the sport/roll bar are directed to the rear bed, providing illumination in the cargo area.

Based on the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, the Scrambler pulls liberally from the Mopar brand’s Jeep Performance Parts line, including a set of four five-inch LED lights stationed atop the sport/roll bar and two stationed on the vehicle’s A-pillars. Facing forward on the brush guard up front are a pair of Jeep Performance Parts seven-inch LED lights, pointing the way at 8,000 lumens each.

The Jeep Performance Parts 17-inch slot wheels are customized in a concept bronze to tie in with the exterior color theme. A two-inch Jeep Performance Parts lift kit helps accommodate large, 37-inch tires and tough Jeep Performance Parts rock rails feature a non-slip grip. The 3.6-liter engine is augmented with a Mopar cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust.

The Scrambler color theme is followed through on the interior. Katzkin Amaretto Brown leather seats are bordered in orange thread, with the Jeep grille logo embroidered in a light Tungsten on the seatbacks. The dash panel and armrests receive the same Katzkin Amaretto Brown leather treatment with matching orange thread accents. The auxiliary switch bank offers a single location for operating accessories, including the LED lights, and the Mopar bright pedal kit and all-weather floor mats also dress up the interior.

Jeep Gladiator Gravity 
The rock-climber-themed Jeep Gladiator Gravity concept is elevated with a full complement of available-at-launch Jeep Performance Parts from Mopar to help equip those who have a desire to reach greater heights.

The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, colored in attention-grabbing Punk’N Metallic Orange, is a ready-to-order expression of how Jeep Performance Parts can help enhance the all-new pickup’s capability and versatility. In the bed area, mounted Mopar cross rails work in concert with a cargo carrier basket to deliver storage space for rock-climbing gear, such as ropes, carabiners, helmets and shoes. A unique Mopar/Decked truck bed storage system offers additional lockable cargo space through dual sliding drawers, while still allowing for storage on top in the bed area.

The open-air potential of the Jeep Gladiator — unlike any other offered by a production midsize truck —  is realized through Jeep Performance Parts two-inch round steel tube doors, a mesh sunbonnet that provides cover while keeping the top-down feel, and tie-down straps that secure the windshield when lowered.

The Jeep Gladiator Gravity is raised with the Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit and runs on 17-inch gear wheels carrying 35-inch tires. Heavy-gauge steel Jeep Performance Parts rock rails are thicker and wider and utilize the same powder-coating on Ram Truck bedliners to provide a non-slip finish. In front of the Mopar satin black grille, Jeep Performance Parts seven-inch LED lights show the way forward, with help from five-inch LED lights on the A-pillars.

The vehicle is upgraded with a cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust system to enhance horsepower and torque. Inside, the interior is dressed up with Katzkin leather seats featuring the Jeep grille logo embroidered in Tungsten stitching. Additional Mopar accessories include grab handles stamped with the Jeep grille logo, MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) bags for storage and all-weather floor mats with a unique “plug” system that allows for direct draining of water and debris.

  • ... Jeep Gladiator aims to reign supreme...

Drew Dowdell

FCA Pooling Fleet with Tesla in EU for Emissions Requirements

FCA is paying Tesla hundreds of millions of dollar to pool their vehicles with Tesla to avoid EU fines over emissions. Tesla put out an invitation to other automakers to use its fleet to lower their emissions totals and FCA took them up on it.  Neither company released financial specifics of the deal, but it is estimated by the Financial Times to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars.  
Similar to California which allows manufactures with a surplus of ZEV credits to sell them to manufacturers who need them, the EU Commission allows manufacturers to pool together their fleets to avoid paying fines. Tesla makes significant money selling these credits in the US, earning $103.4m in 2018 and $279.7m in 2017. Once set up, the pool in Europe is good for several years.
Vehicles in 2018 are allowed an average CO2 emission of 120.5g per kilometer. That figure will drop to 95g per kilometer next year.  FCA's average for 2018 was 123g per kilometer, one of the largest off the mark of the 13 major manufacturers. FCA is seen to have fallen to near the back of the pack when in comes to reigning in CO2 emissions.
FCA was forecast to be facing fines exceeding €2 billion ($2.25 billion) without pooling with Tesla. 
 

  • ...worth hundreds of millions for Tesla...

Drew Dowdell

Twice the Torque, Three Times Power Density, Linear Labs Electric Motors

Revolution most commonly starts in the heart of what is to be disrupted. In this case, oil country is where one of the most revolutionary new motor designs is coming from. The minds at the University of Texas in Dallas, Dr. Babak Fahimi and the Renewable Enery and Vehicular Technology Laboratory brings us this new startup "Linear Labs Inc. A Smart Electric Motor Company" who just completed their funding round to allow them to market and produce their flagship motor, the Hunstable Electric Turbine motor.
Currently today's electric vehicle has a high revving horsepower motor with low torque, as an example you can find many electric motors that produce 50 horsepower at 10,000 rpm with 26 lb-ft of torque. The Hunstable Electric Turbine motor produces that same 50 horsepower at 1,300 rpm with 200 lb-ft of torque thus eliminating the need for a gear box as well as other components which in turn reduces cost and complexity.
 

The Hunstable motor while eliminating geared reduction thus being useful for direct drive applications retains the capability to perform at extremely high speeds and maintains maximum efficiency throughout the loading curve.
Let's get into the technical chops of the Hunstable Electric Turbine (HET) motor.
Permanent magnet circumferential flux 4 rotor motor 3D magnetic structure produces four active torque producing areas all with the same polarity 30% reduced use of copper in the coil Maximum torque production from all magnetic field interactions Reduced motor size due to patented unique design requires no unproductive open spaces Large Lorentz Force that peaks with a large reluctance force. Best way to explain this is to quote their website: " by extending the length of the magnetic tunnel region, the torque that is present throughout the coils travels without regard to the coils at pole face length. Unlike existing conventional machines where torque is only present at an optimum point as it approaches a magnetic pole, the HET has no single optimum point but rather all positions exhibit maximum torque. The torque and force will exist while the coil in in the tunnel, regardless of tunnel length.
Traditional electric motors have always had a current pulse from the three phase supply requiring a timed rotation that allows for optimum torque production at a single instant in time where only a single phase is active. Electronics have been used to manipulate and soften the pulsations to some degree to gain performance as seen by the current leading EV manufacturers.
The HET motor is able to use a different approach due to the large force presented. One could talk about coils, poles and phases but the end result is that the the technology used by the HET Motor allows for all phases produced to create a continuous pulse of power. These power pulses overlap rather than being sequential thus eliminating torque pulsations ending with maximum torque production.
The HET Motor has an advantage that no other electric motor can equal and that is that via software control, the phases can be controlled into particular patterns allowing for true variable pole count ending in adjustable speed / torque development. To quote Linear Labs: "This allows a speed change increase with no changes in frequency, current or voltage level, which makes an electronic transmission possible."

Current electric motors use what is called Field Weakening. This is where one has peak torque at 0 RPM but trades torque for speed as it goes faster. Excitation speed increases as torque drops by weakening the magnetic fields.
Induction motors increase speed by reducing this excitation current, permanent magnet motors inject an opposing current to control this which is known as a D axis current injection. The constant horsepower region is what this area of speed increase is called. Torque being traded for speed, but total horsepower does not change.
Efficiency drops off in the uses as stated above and this is what the HET motor addresses with its revolutionary design. To quote Linear Labs: " By slightly rotating a single side rotor, an axial magnetic component is introduced. This weakens , as far as the coils are concerned, the total magnetic field experienced by the coils. The degree of field weakening controls the trade-off between torque and speed.
For the first time in electric machine history, as the HET Motor enters the Constant Horsepower Region, core losses drop and overall efficiencies actually climb."
At this time you would not be blamed for saying "SO WHAT" what does this get me?
The benefits of this revolutionary new motor or as Linear Labs likes to call it their electric turbine is the following list:
Magnetic Configuration producing 100% more torque than any other design. Efficiency, reduced copper losses resulting in reduced on-board energy storage. Power, testing has shown that the HET motor with standard cooling produces continuous and peak power at 1.9 kW and  2.7 kW at a base speed of 3000 RPM superseding any other commercially available electric propulsion unit. Cost and Compactness, resulting in less cost of on-board electronics, converters, controllers, etc. Thermal Management, superior design due to less copper and what is known as end windings that contribute nothing to torque or output giving you superior efficiency. Variable speed applications, perfect for low speed constant use but also for high speed applications. Acoustic Noise, HET motors being smaller than current commercial counterparts along with limited torque pulsation provides a quiet drive system removing most noise heard by the human ear. Some of the markets that are ripe for Linear Labs motors are of course the auto industry, HVAC industry, industry manufacturing, pretty much any market where constant and variable electric motors are being used. This results in potential energy conservation on a large scale.
Linear Labs see's the potential benefits from scooters, to drones, motorcycles, cars and trucks. The uses of their HET Motor will revolutionize the world while contributing to energy conservation.
 

  • ...more torque, better power density, and 10 percent further range...

G. David Felt

Telsa Prepping New More Efficient Motors for Model S and X

According to sources familiar with Tesla software, Tesla is preparing to update the Model S and Model X with new, more efficient motors.  Recent software updates have appeared that make reference to the new motors. 
The new motors with the codename "Raven", are permanent magnet reluctance motors as found in the Model 3. These motors have the benefit of pre-excitation from the magnets giving them an efficiency advantage. They also work to reduce the overall costs of the vehicle.  In the Model 3, the motors can achieve an efficiency rating higher than 97% compared to 93% on the Model S/X.   The difference in efficiency is even more marked in stop and go traffic where the Model 3 is much more efficient than the AC induction motors in the Models S and X. These upgrades could work out to a longer range and better performance for the pair. 
Tesla sales, though up year over year, have recently crashed down 31% from the previous quarter . While the timing of the release of these upgrades is not known, there are rumors that Tesla is planning a major interior refresh for the pair for 2020, so it could be matched with those updates.  Important timing when vehicles like the Porsche Taycan, Audi E-Tron , and Polestar 2 will be hitting the market over the next 18 months. 
 

  • ...the upgrade comes from the Model 3...

Drew Dowdell

GM, Ford, and Toyota Form Autonomous Vehicle Safety Consortium

The Society of Automotive Engineers has announced today that they are joining with Ford, General Motors, and Toyota to form the Automatic Vehicle Safety Consortium (AVSC), a group that will work together to test the deployment and development of Level 4 and Level 5 automated vehicles. 
The AVSC will provide a safety framework for the advancement of the technology in a safe and responsible manner. The group will use the expertise of its current members to establish a set of guiding principles for safety. 
GM, Ford, and Toyota already have autonomous vehicle development well underway.  GM is producing driverless Chevrolet Bolt EVs as part of a development and testing program via its GM Cruise unit. 

  • ...banding together to bring about safer autonomous vehicles...

Drew Dowdell

If you have an older GPS system, you may need an update tonight.

If you're currently running with an older GPS system, either built into your car or via an external device, you may need to check if a firmware update is available.  Tonight at midnight, the UTC clock used by the satellite navigation system will roll over to 0000000000.   That number is a 10-bit "week number" that counts the number of weeks since August 21, 1999, the date of the current GPS "epoch". 
Most newer GPS devices will know about the coming rollover and will just continue working, but older ones that haven't been updated could fail with timing data jumping backwards by almost 20 years. This isn't a new issue, this will be the second time the GPS system has seen such a flip.  Eventually, the GPS system will be upgraded to a 13-bit date system and greatly increase the length of time between epochs.
If you have an older GPS device or car with GPS built in, you may want to check with the manufacturer if a firmware update is needed. 

  • ...the UTC clock is about to roll over...

Drew Dowdell

2020 Karma Revero Gets Updated Battery And Regenerator

Karma Automotive is preparing to release the 2020 refresh of the Revaro.  The current car uses GM's 2.0 liter 4-cylinder as a regenerator to charge the 21.4 kWh battery while underway. The battery then powers a pair of electric motors in the rear that produce a combined 403 horsepower letting the Revero dart to 60 in just 5.4 seconds. Range in full EV mode is about 37 miles, so says the EPA.
In a press release, Karma has announced that the the refreshed Revero will now move to a 1.5 liter BMW 3-cylinder to support a new, more powerful NMC lithium-ion battery pack.  The rear drive unit is being replaced as well with a new twin-motor rear drive module.  In the 2020 car, naught to 60 will drop by nearly a full second to 4.5 seconds. 
The refreshed Revero will sport updated body work to go along with its technological upgrades. 
Karma will be unveiling the 2020 Revero at the Shanghai Motor Show on April 16th along with two other concepts. 
 
2020 Karma Revero Teaser (Click to Enlarge)
Related:
 

  • .... courtesy of BMW....

Drew Dowdell

Trump Threatens Mexico with Auto Tariffs

The President has threatened to slap tariffs on the import of all cars in a year if Mexico does not completely halt the flow of illegal immigration, a near impossible task.  This is after he backtracked on his previous threat to completely close the US-Mexico border, a move his own advisers recommended against.  Such actions would have massive economic repercussions on both sides of the border, raising prices for many consumer goods. 
Trump said, "Mexico understands that we're going to close the border or I'm going to tariff the cars. I'll do one or the other. And probably start with the tariffs".  He further added, "I don't think we'll ever have to close the border because the penalty of tariffs on cars coming into the United States from Mexico, at 25%, will be massive".
One problem with this threat is the fresh trade agreement with Mexico that Trump has already negotiated. Going back on a fresh trade agreement adds to the longtime concerns by other world leaders on whether Trump's word, and the U.S. Government, can be trusted.  Tariffs on imported goods aren't paid by the exporting country, they are paid by the consumers of the importing country, so it is unclear who Trump is targeting with these tariffs. 
One of the biggest automotive importers from Mexico is General Motors.  GM recently had to remove a Chevrolet Blazer display from a stadium in Michigan after backlash over its Mexican origin. GM has recently closed two plants in Michigan costing the state thousands of jobs. 

  • ...in spite of negotiating no tariffs with them earlier..

Drew Dowdell

Mustang with Extra Ecoboost Coming to NY?

Last month we reported that Ford was apparently working on another version of the Mustang with a more powerful Ecoboost 4-cylinder. Well apparently Ford is preparing to show that Mustang at an event during the New York International Auto Show. 
The new Ecoboost Mustang could possibly wear an SVO badge, going back to the days when one of the hotter Mustangs was also powered by a Turbo-4.
Ford is looking to fill a gap in the Mustang lineup. Currently, there is a 125 horsepower gap between the current Turbo-4 powered car and the V8 Powered GT.  Chevrolet fills that space with a 335 hp V6 in their Camaro, while Ford's base powerplant offers just 310 hp only when using 93 octane.  Over at the Focus desk, Ford has tuned the same 2.3 liter turbo to 350 hp, so we know the drivetrain can handle the extra boost. 
We expect, if this SVO does come to pass, some suspension and chassis adjustments to handle the extra power. Possibly even an updated fascia like the original SVO had.  
We'll find out on April 17th. 
Related:
 

  • ...more boost for your bucks...

Drew Dowdell

BMW V12 To Live to 2023 At Least

BMW is committing to keeping their V12 in production until at least 2023 according to BMW Powertrain Executive Michael Bayer, and he thinks it will be possible to make the engine compliant with the next round of Euro emissions regulations. That means it will stick around for the rest of the current generation of the 7-series sedan.   Unfortunately, there will still not be a V12 offered in the 8-series coupe. 
We've already reported that Mercedes plans to cut its V12 out of the S-Class sedan after the 2020 model year. By doing so, it will make BMW the standard bearer for the final V12s in regular production. Audi already canceled its W12 engine starting with the 2017 model year though it is still in use in the Bentley Flying Spur.
One possible reason for BMW keeping the V12 around is its use in Rolls Royce vehicles until they make the big leap to full electrification. 
 

  • ...and maybe beyond that...

Drew Dowdell

Carlos Ghosn Arrested Again in Japan

In what is being called a highly unusual turn, Japanese prosecutors have arrested Carlos Ghosn again while he was out on bail on suspicion of trying to enrich himself at Nissan's expense.  Ghosn has called on the French government for help. Ghosn was free on $9 Million bail at the time.
Prosecutors say that Ghosn had caused over $5 million in losses at Nissan Motor Co in a breach of his legal duties to the company with the goal of personal gain. The losses come from the alleged shifting of funds through a dealer in Oman into an account that Ghosn owned. 
Prosecutors visited Ghosn's residence on Thursday for questioning and later took him into custody. Ghosn remained defiant, saying through a spokesman "Why arrest me except to try to break me? I will not be broken" and that the arrest was "an outrageous and arbitrary attempt to silence him". 
Prior to his arrest, Ghosn said on Twitter that he would hold a press conference on April 11th to tell the truth about the allegations against him. Prosecutors can hold him for 22 days without charge under Japanese law. 
 

  • ....back behind bars for the ex-Nissan CEO...

Drew Dowdell

Mustang Could Get Bigger, Heavier, Move to Explorer Platform

According to a report in Automobile Magazine, the Ford Mustang could move to the CD6 platform that underpins the 2020 Ford Explorer, but the soonest that would happen is 2026. The CD6 platform also underpins the Lincoln Aviator and will be used in the next generation Ford Edge.
One of the side effects of moving to the new platform is that the Mustang would become much larger and heavier than the current S550 platform car, possibly up to the length of the Dodge Challenger.  Currently, the Mustang is 188.3 inches long and rides on a 107.1 inch wheelbase, while the Challenger clocks in nearly 10 inches longer at 197.9 inches with a 116.2 inch wheelbase.  The widths of the two cars are pretty much dead on.
Part of the reason the Challenger is so large is because it is built on the same full-size sedan platform as the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. Chevy had the same issue with the 5th generation Camaro which was built on a full-size sedan platform shared with the Pontiac G8.  While Ford would be taking that a step further by using an SUV platform, the CD6 architecture is said to be flexible enough to build a 2-door sports coupe upon.
Sources differ on when this CD6 platform Mustang, code-named S650, will appear, but they range from 2026 to 2029.  So either way it is clear that the current car has a lot of life left in it.   Ford apparently has a major refresh planned that will include all new sheet metal and underbody work. That refresh will also be where the hybrid Mustang appears. There is also the second Ecoboost 4-cylinder coming that we have yet to get details on.  You can read more below. 
Related:
 

  • ...could swell to Dodge Challenger size...

Drew Dowdell

Interior of Mercedes-Benz GLB Concept Rendered

Mercedes-Benz will use the Shanghai Motor Show to introduce a concept version of the upcoming GLB small crossover to slot between the GLA and GLC in the lineup.  Ahead of the show in two weeks, Mercedes has released a rendering of what the interior of the concept might look like.  It shows a very boxy interior with deep HVAC pods, the MBUX wide dual-screen dash, and a 3 point star without the ring on the airbag cover. The controls on the dash, steering wheel, and door look very familiar to existing Mercedes products, leading us to believe that this concept will be very close to the production version. 
Spy photos of the GLB indicate that the exterior is just as boxy as the interior and that it may be taking a styling queue or two from the king of the Mercedes SUV lineup, the G-Wagon. Like the GLC, expect a 2.0 liter turbo as a base engine with an up-tuned AMG 35 version to come later.

  • ...bitty boxy..

Drew Dowdell

Ford's Mustang Inspired EV Crossover to Have 370 Mile Range

Ford revealed during a debut event for its European electrified models that the as-yet-unnamed Mustang inspired electrified crossover will have a range of 370 miles when it arrives in 2020, but those are using the WTLP cycle, and the EPA range rating could be lower.  Ford has previously stated they were targeting a range of 300 miles, so a good guess for the EPA range would be somewhere between those two numbers.  Ford has recently trademarked the name "Mach-E" and "Mustang Mach-E". Could this be a name for this new EV crossover? Time will tell. 
Earlier in 2019, Ford stated that all future vehicle will have an electrified version, something borne out by yesterdays unveiling of the 2020 Ford Escape with two hybrid variants. 
Ford also teased us with the Puma, a compact crossover set to slot between the Ecosport and Kuga, the Euro version of the Escape.  The Puma uses a 48-volt batter and a belt-alternator-starter system mated to a 1.0 liter 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine. No word yet if the Puma will make it to the U.S., but with pint-sized crossovers selling so well in the U.S., we'd not be surprised to see it here in the near future. (Click image to enlarge)

  • ...we don't have a name, but now we have a range...

Drew Dowdell

Infiniti Revealing Qs Inspiration Concept in Shanghai

Infiniti will be debuting the Qs Inspiration concept at Auto Shanghai 2019.  The concept uses an all-new flexible architecture designed specifically to enable the use of electrified powertrains. The Qs Inspiration foreshadows the design direction of Infiniti cars. It features an uncluttered driving area and spacious and peaceful passenger zone.
The Qs Inspiration follows on the QX Inspiration Concept that debuted at the Detroit Auto Show in January.  Auto Shanghai begins April 16th.

  • ...an concept to show off its electrified future.

Drew Dowdell

Peugeot Could Make Landfall in U.S. As Soon as 2022

We previously had reported that Peugeot was planning on returning to the U.S. by 2026. After having been turned down by FCA for an offer of a merger, The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Peugeot is accelerating its plans for a US return to happen in 3 to 4 years, that means as soon as 2022.
One advantage they have is their recent acquisition of Opel from General Motors. Through that acquisition, Peugeot gained a number of engineers who have experience designing vehicles for the U.S. market. According to  PSA CEO Carlos Tavares, anything Peugeot currently builds is up for consideration to bring to the US market, though it has been hinted that the initial offering will be in the mid-size and compact segments. 
Peugeot is also looking to disrupt the sales process as well.  While they still may use a dealership network, executives appear focused on a new method of vehicle delivery, perhaps using a methodology similar to Carvana where the process is primarily completed online. 

  • .... speeding up the timeline....

Drew Dowdell

March 2019 Sales Figures

Quarterly:
Ford Motor Company - Down 1.6% for the quarter, Down 1.6% for the year
General Motors Co. - Down 7% for the quarter, Down 7% for the year
Tesla - Up 110% for the quarter, Up 110% for the year

Monthly:
Audi of America -  Up 1.1% for the month, Up 9.4% for the year
BMW of North America -  Up 0.4% for the month,  Down 1.9% for the year
FCA US LLC -  Down 7% for the month, Down 3% for the year
Genesis Motor America - 
Honda Motor Co. -  Up 4.3% for the month,  Up 2.0% for the year
Hyundai Motor America -  Up 1.7% for the month, Up 2.1% for the year
Jaguar Land Rover North America - Down 7% for the month 
Kia Motors America - Up 10.2% for the month, Up 7.6% for the year
Mazda North American Operations - Down 19.1%  for the month, Down 15.7% for the year
Mercedes-Benz USA - Down 2.7% for the month, Down 9.3% for the year
Mitsubishi Motors North America -  Up 36.9% for the month, Up 17.6% for the year
Nissan Group - Down 7.2% for the month, Down 12.1% for the year
Porsche Cars North America Inc. -  Up 0.5% for the month, Up 7.7% for the year
Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 6.0% for the Month, Up 4.7% for the year
Toyota Motor North America - Down 3.5% for the month, Down 5% for the year
Volkswagen of America -  Up 14% for the month, Up 2.3% for the year
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC -  Up 16.2%  for the month, Up 9.8% for the year

Brands (Quarterly):
Buick -  Down 8.7% - 51,876 QTD / YTD
Cadillac -  Down 2.0% - 35,995 QTD / YTD
Chevrolet - Down 7.8% - 452,401 QTD / YTD
GMC - Down 4.4% - 125,577 QTD / YTD
Ford - Down 2.1% - 565,274 QTD / YTD
Lincoln - Up 11.2% - 24,974 QTD / YTD
Tesla - Up 110% - 30,600 QTD / YTD

Brands (Monthly):
Acura - Up 10.4% - 14,408 MTD / 36,385 YTD
Alfa Romeo - Down 31% - 1,774 MTD / 4,286 YTD
Audi - Up 1.1% - 20,302 MTD / 14,859 YTD
BMW - Up 2.9% - 32,228 MTD / 73,888 YTD
Chrysler - Down 38% - 12,169 MTD / 31,591 YTD
Dodge - Down 6% - 46,367 MTD / 110,517 YTD
Fiat - Down 45% - 847 MTD / 2,214 YTD
Genesis - 
Honda - Up 7.9% - 134,101 MTD / 333,402 YTD
Hyundai - Up 1.7% - 61,177 MTD / 147,585 YTD
Infiniti - Down 23.1% - 13,406 MTD / 34,315 YTD
Jaguar - Up 13% - 3,679 MTD
Jeep - Down 11% - 87,328 MTD / 212,804 YTD
Kia - Up 10.2% - 55,814 MTD / 136,596 YTD
Land Rover - Down 13% - 9,492 MTD
Lexus - Up 8.2% - 29,249 MTD  / 66,791 YTD
Mazda - Down 19.1% - 26,934 MTD / 70,833 YTD
Mercedes-Benz - Down 4.9% - 27,004 MTD / 71,171 YTD 
Mercedes-Benz Vans - Up 19.1% - 3,533 MTD / 7,476 YTD
MINI - Down 16.8% - 3,769 MTD / 8,905 YTD
Mitsubishi - Up 17.6% - 19,599 MTD / 42,067 YTD
Nissan - Down 5.3% - 137,365 MTD / 331,536 YTD
Porsche - Up 0.48% - 4,779 MTD / 15,024 YTD
Ram Trucks - Up 15% - 51,822 MTD / 137,013 YTD
Smart - Down 18.2% - 90 MTD / 231 YTD
Subaru - Up 6.0% - 61,601 MTD / 156,754 YTD
Toyota - Down 5.1% - 185,696 MTD / 476,923 YTD
Volkswagen - Up 14% - 37,092 MTD / 85,872 YTD
Volvo - Up 16.2% - 9,569 MTD / 22,058  YTD

  • ...find out who was lucky in the green last month.

Drew Dowdell

Ford Introduces the 2020 Ford Escape

Ford unveiled the completely redesigned 2020 Ford Escape today ahead of its official showing at the New York Auto Show in two weeks.  Some of the biggest news about the Escape comes under the hood where 4 new powertrains debut. 
The standard engine will be a 1.5 liter Ecoboost 3-cylinder that can run as a 2 cylinder during light load situations.  The engine is projected to produce 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque when fueled with premium gas. This is the first Ford engine with cylinder deactivation. The engine will be standard issue on S, SE, and SEL level trims. When properly equipped, the 1.5T will tow up to 2,000 lbs. 
For those wanting more power, the Titanium trim will have a 250 horsepower, 275 lb-ft Ecoboost displacing 2.0 liters and coming standard with AWD. When running 93 octane, Ford says it will propel the Escape to 60 10% faster than the outgoing model. Towing for the 2.0T is maximum rated at 3,500 lbs. Both Ecoboost engines send power to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic.
For the Eco-minded the hybrid returns to the Escape lineup after a 7 year absence, also joined by a plug-in variant.  The Plug-in uses an all new 2.5 liter 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle hybrid engine paired with a CVT.  The combined output of the hybrid is rated at 198 horsepower and is capable of 85 mph in electric only mode. The hybrid will be available only on the SE Sport and Titanium trim.
The Plug-in hybrid will be available on SE, SEL, and Titanium trims. It will have an electric only range of 30 miles. Level 1 and Level 2 charging are available. Level 1 110 volt outlet takes 10 to 11 hours for a full charge from empty, switching to level 2 cuts that time to about 3.5 hours. Total system power increases over the standard hybrid to 209 horsepower, but will not be available with All-wheel drive. 
Both hybrid models feature 4 EV modes that allow the driver to adjust drive settings to the most suitable for conditions and needs.
Auto EV mode - the vehicle decides whether to run on gasoline or electric power. EV Now Mode - the vehicle operates on all-electric drive. EV Later Mode - the vehicle operates on gasoline power to conserve electric miles for later EV Charge Mode - the vehicle operates on gasoline and recharges the battery for later EV only mode. Helping on the efficiency front, Ford designers made the most aerodynamic Escape ever.  They made a more sloped roofline and strake, an efficient underbody, and an optimized liftgate spoiler. Overall, the 2020 Escape is 200lbs lighter than its predecessor.  The new Escape is longer, lower, and wider than the outgoing model. The two ecoboost engines boast a range of 400 miles per tank, while the standard hybrid with FWD aims for a range of 550 miles. 
Inside, Ford engineers optimized space to increase headroom and cargo capacity.  With the second row in the fully forward position, the rear cargo area can accommodate 4 golf bags or a full size dog crate. 
On the safety front, the Escape comes with Ford Co-Pilot 360 standard.  Other technologies like Adaptive Cruise and Lane-Centering are available.  Passengers are entertained via an 8-inch touch screen standard on SE and above. The gauge cluster is a 12.3 inch all digital system that uses 3D animated graphic to indicate drive mode. 
The 2020 Ford Escape will reach dealers in the fall with the Plug-in Hybrid variant due in Spring 2020. 
We will have more of the 2020 Ford Escape from the New York Auto Show on April 17th.
 
 

  • ... heading to Escapeville...

Drew Dowdell

Toyota Unveils the 2020 Yaris Hatchback

A few weeks back we reported that the Toyota Yaris hatchback that we all knew and ...er... loved... would be ending production but we also found out that there was a possibility that the model name would continue in the form of a rebadged Mazda 2 hatchback like the Yaris Sedan. 
Yesterday, those suspicions were confirmed.  Toyota released details ahead of the New York International Auto Show of the coming 2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback.   Like the sedan, it is based on the Mazda 2 but with a Toyota front clip and badging.  Surprisingly, it is larger than the old model. Wheelbase is up by 2.4 inches over the outgoing model and features a trunk area with almost 16 cubic feet of room. 
Toyota describes the styling as "Cab-Rearward", giving the hatchback a hunkered down bulldog like look.  The interior is standard issue Mazda with Toyota badging and we expect it to be excellent for the class.  Toyota claims the Yaris Hatch will be a hoot to drive due to its use of ultra-high tensile steel frame.  The high structural integrity combined with a MacPherson Strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension have been tuned for handling agility and comfort. 
The Yaris will come in just two trims, LE and XLE, both equipped with Navigation hardware (SD card with Maps sold separately), but you could also use the standard Apple Car Play or Android Auto for navigation on the standard 7-inch touchscreen.  Stepping up to the XLE brings faux leather in gray or black, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic LED headlamps, and leather trim on the steering wheel, shift knob, and parking brake. 
Both trims of the Yaris will be equipped standard with low-speed pre-collision safety system, dynamic stability control, traction control, ABS, brake assist, and brake override systems. 
Powering the Yaris will be the same engine as in the Yaris Sedan, a 1.5 liter inline 4-cylinder that produces 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque.  This engine has direct injection and a 12.0:1 compression ratio.  A 6-speed automatic is the only transmission choice.
No word yet on pricing, but expect a small bump over the $15,450 of the Yaris Sedan. 
The Yaris will debut on April 17th at the New York Auto Show and go on sale later this year. 
 

  • ... A Mazda by any other name...

Drew Dowdell

Could Pricing Finally Crack Truck Buyer Loyalty?

Truck owner loyalty is legendary.  Buyers typically pick one brand and stick with that brand for as long as they buy trucks. Indeed my own father has owned only one brand of pickup, the Ford F-series, since before I arrived on earth.  In 2018, Ford moved more than 900,000 copies of its F-series pickups out of a total segment of 2,944,395. 
But have rising prices started to crack that loyalty?   CarGurus did a survey and found that 70% of truck owners would switch brands if their truck raised prices by $10,000, that is up from 64% last year. While $10,000 seems like a big jump, even an increase of $5,000 would cause 42% of owners to ditch their current brand.
Of those considering switching brands, 54% responded that it was due to price, and 47% cited fuel economy as a concern.
More concerning for manufacturers is that 17% of current truck owners say they are unlikely to buy another truck, with Toyota and Ford truck owners being 43% of that total. 
We may see some strong incentive competition in the market soon if these trends continue. 

  • .... 68% of current truck owners believe that current pickups are overpriced.

Drew Dowdell

Volvo XC40 Getting All-Electric Version

Volvo is planning on releasing an all-electric version of its Volvo XC40 crossover sometime later this year. This will be the first pure EV under the Volvo brand and the second one in the automaker group after the Polstar 2 that was shown at the Geneva Auto Show earlier this year.
In addition to the all-electric version, Volvo will reportedly be offering a 3-cylinder plug-in hybrid version of the XC40, though no official specs have been announced yet. Two variations would be offered, at T4 Twin-Engine and T5 Twin-Engine. 
While the Polestar 2 is aiming for a 275 mile range, don't expect similar range from the taller and flatter XC40, but somewhere in the 225 area should be doable. 
Volvo is expecting 25% of sales to be plug-in hybrids, up from the 10% - 15% of sales today. Volvo's goals for electric vehicles is even higher, with an aim for a full 50% of sales by 2025. 
 

  • .... will be the brand's first pure EV. 

Drew Dowdell

Chevy Removing Blazer Display After Backlash

In some ways, old-school General Motors is still around.  This time it is over the tone-deafness of placing a Mexican built product on display at Comerica Park in Detroit just months after announcing the shutdown of GM two plants in Michigan. 
GM said in a statement that it picked the Blazer, along with the Silverado, for display because the vehicle is brand new and the Blazer is an iconic American nameplate.  However, people are upset with GM for the pick of a Mexican built vehicle when two plants in Michigan,  Warren and Detroit-Hamtramck will be closing and thousands of jobs will be lost.
Now, just days after being installed over centerfield at the park, GM is quietly swapping the Blazer out with a new Chevrolet Traverse at the park fountain. GM said they wanted fans to enjoy baseball without the distraction and further added that the Blazer will add $500 million a year to the U.S. manufacturing economy. 
GM recently announced a $300 million upgrade to the Orion Assembly plant and the addition of a new Chevrolet EV just says after Trump criticized General Motors and Mary Barra for closing the Lordstown Ohio plant. 

  • ...all over criticism over Mexican built SUV while GM closes plants in Michican.

Drew Dowdell

SMART to Live On

We recently reported that Daimler could possibly kill off the SMART brand after years of losing money.  One of our own suggestions was that SMART expand into a regular car brand instead of staying in just the micro-car segment.   Well, things change quickly in this industry. Yesterday, Daimler paired with Chinese manufacturer Geely in a 50-50 joint venture to bring the next generation of SMART vehicles to China.  Part of that expansion will be a move up into the sub-compact market, a fast-growing market in China. 
SMART will remain an electric car brand and will be a joint development between the two companies.  Though not disclosed at this time, it is possible that SMART will use the platform being jointly developed with BMW for its forthcoming i2 car. 
The current SMART cars are on a joint-venture platform shared with the Renault Twingo.  Renault has not expressed an interest in renewing that partnership with Daimler for the next generation of cars. Currently, the ForTwo is built in Hambach Germany.  After 2022, that factory is slated to build Mercedes EQ cars.

  • ... the rumors of SMART's death have been premature.

Drew Dowdell

2020 Ford Escape Debut set for April 2nd

Ford is getting ready to introduce a new Escape for the 2020 model year on April 2nd.  The compact crossover is one of Ford's best sellers, moving as many as 308,296 units in 2017.  The growth trend has stalled though and sales dipped to around 272k units last year.  The current generation went on sale in 2013 and was facelifted for 2017, but since then, new editions of the Honda CR-V, Chevrolet Equiniox, updated Jeep Cherokee, and Toyota RAV-4 have hit the market.
Ford offered a teaser video via twitter today that gives some hints as to what to expect from the 2020 Escape. 


The 2020 VIN decoder shows that the current 2.5 liter 4-cylinder will not be making a return, instead replaced with the 1.5T that will carry over.  The 2.0T also remains as an upgrade.  Hybrid fans can rejoice because after a 7 year absence a hybrid will be returning to the lineup and will also be joined by a Plug-In Hybrid option like the Lincoln Corsair.  No word yet on the range of the PHEV.
We'll hear the whole story about the Ford Escape on April 2nd. 
 

  • ... here are a few teasers to hold you until then.

Drew Dowdell

Volkwagen Arteon Price Starts at $35,845*

The Volkswagen Arteon is taking the scenic route to the US with a delayed launch brought on by some delays in getting its engine certified for the US.  The US version of the Arteon debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in 2018 and we recently reported that the Arteon would finally go on sale sometime in early summer.
Volkswagen has announced pricing for the U.S. model will start at $35,845 plus $995 destination charge for the base SE front-wheel-drive model and $37,645 for all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on all trims, generally costing about $2,000 for the upgrade. 
Arteon SE comes with heated 12-way power seats with faux leather, three-zone automatic climate control, rain sensing wipers, and an 8.0 inch diagonal infotainment screen including Android Auto and Apple Car Play. 18" alloy wheels and LED headlights are standard.
Arteon SEL starts at $39,995 for FWD and $41,795 for 4Motion AWD. It adds adaptive front lighting, panoramic sunroof, remote start, Napa leather seats, driver seat memory, ambient lighting, navigation, a 12.3 inch digital cockpit systems, and adaptive cruise control.
Arteon SEL Premium starts at $44,945 and features standard 4motion, heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, ventilated front seats, massaging driver’s seat, heated rear seats, brushed aluminum, tri-color ambient lighting, and a 700-watt premium audio system with 12 speakers.
The R-Line Package is available on any trim level and includes 19-inch alloy wheels for $1,265 or 20-inch alloy wheels for $1,765
 

  • ... better late than never.

Drew Dowdell

Kia Reveals Two SUV Concepts in Seoul

Kia unveiled two SUV concepts at the Seoul Motor Show this week.  Both concepts preview design directions for the brand.
First up is the Kia Masterpiece (Shown Above and right).  Sporting a profile similar to the Kia Telluride, the Masterpiece is a take on a more rugged SUV.  The front end shows off a new variation of Kia's Tiger Nose grille that extends outwards across the entire of the concept with 12 vertical bars in a Hummer-like fashion. The body has been raised and it has a strong all-wheel drive system to match its go-anywhere looks. 
Secondly is the Signature Concept (Shown Below). This is an update to the Kia SP Concept that was seen late last year and is slated to come to the US at some point.  Kia says that this concept is nearly production ready and the production version will be revealed later in 2019.  Up front, the Tiger Nose grille connect to thin LED lamps. Its strong shoulder line, with a glasshouse which tapers towards the rear of the car, lends the compact SUV an air of understated sportiness.
 

  • .... Two concepts to show the future design direction of the brand.

Drew Dowdell

Mercedes-Benz Introduces the A 35 Sedan

Mercedes-AMG has introduced the A 35 Sedan, a pint-size power house for people wanting a compact sedan with sporting character.  The A 35 backs up that claim with a 2.0 liter turbo that generates 302 hp at 5800 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque in the range between 3,000 and 4,000 rpm.  Power is sent to all wheel via a 7-speed DCT.   Naught to 60 takes just 4.7 seconds. As drivers select different drive modes, there is an automatically controlled exhaust flap to modify engine sound.
To increase structural rigidity, AMG has added a special "shearing plate" underneath the engine to increase front end stiffness and two additional braces at the front of the underbody further add stiffness. 
Faux leather with microfiber inserts and red contrasting top stitching are standard, as are the red seatbelts.  MBUX multimedia system and digital cluster also come standard. Drivers can control certain functions of the car with voice activation by saying "Hey Mercedes".
As expected, much of the rest of the A 35, including dimensions, carry over from the standard A-Class Sedan, which you can read more about below.
We will hopefully get a closer look at the Mercedes-AMG A 35 at the New York International Auto Show on April 17th.
 

  • ...a pint-sized powerhouse from AMG.

Drew Dowdell

BMW Planning New Small EV Paired With Daimler

BMW is planning on a new EV on a platform shared with Daimler according to reports.  The new car, called the i2, would be about the same size as the current BMW i3, but without the expensive carbon fiber body.  
The i2, aimed for a 2024 launch, would have a starting price less than 30,000€ ($34,000).  BMW wants to have a 300km (186 mile) range.  BMW recently revised the i3 to have a larger battery.  The revised battery is 42.2 kWh and gives the i3 a range of 153 miles. 
Sales of the combined models from both BMW and Daimler would be targeted around 500,000 annually. 
 

  • ... Same size as BMW i3, but without Carbon Fiber

Drew Dowdell

2020 Hyundai Venue to Debut in NY

Hyundai announced the name of their new crossover, the Hyundai Venue, that will debut at the New York International Auto Show in three weeks.   The Venue will slot below the Hyundai Kona in their lineup, bringing their total crossover count to 6.   The Venue follows the new Hyundai Kona, a redesigned Hyundai Santa Fe, and the new three-row Hyundai Palisade .
Hyundai's crossover sales rose by 24% in 2018 while car sales dropped 13%. 
The Venue will debut in New York at the Jacob Javits Center on April 17th.
Related:
 

  • ...  another crossover to slot below Kona

Drew Dowdell

Ford Retreats from Russia

Ford will exit Russia's passenger car market and focus solely on the light commercial vehicle market says a report from Bloomberg.  Alligned with those moves, Ford will cease production in the country at two vehicle assembly plants.  Those plants will close by the end of June 2019.  Ford produces the Focus, Mondeo, Fiesta, and Ecosport in Russia.
These cuts will cause significant job losses for Russia.  This move comes after Ford announced as many as 6,000 job cuts in Germany and the UK  and cut jobs at a transmission factory in France. 
Honda, Nissan, and BMW have all recently announced cuts or closures in European operations.
Related:
 

  • .... more cuts for Ford.

Drew Dowdell

New York 2019: The 2020 Lincoln Corsair to Debut in NYC

Lincoln has released a teaser video and picture to generate some buzz head of the NY International Auto Show in 3 weeks.  The Lincoln Corsair will take over for the Lincoln MKC when it goes on sale late this year.   Two of the engine options will carry over, the 2.0T and 2.3T ecoboost 4-cylinders, but a plug-in hybrid variant will bow in as well. 
The Corsair fills in the entry level of Lincoln's SUV lineup, but if it is anything like the Aviator and Navigator, it will greatly up the ante on interior appointments and luxury. 
Corsair is a nod to the nautical and aviation naming theme that Lincoln is using for its SUVS.  Corsair is unique in that is has been used both for boats and planes. 
 

  • ... a bit of a teaser ahead of the NY Auto Show in 3 weeks

Drew Dowdell

Genesis Introduces Spectrum "All-Inclusive" leasing

Genesis has introduced Spectrum all-inclusive leasing.  While not a subscription service like Volvo's Care or Book by Cadillac , Spectrum does include insurance and all maintenance for 3 years.   Subscription leasing services main draw is the ability of the leasee to switch vehicles at some point during the lease.
Genesis Spectrum covers the following:
3 years/36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance 3 years/36,000 miles complimentary Service Valet 3 years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services, including Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Destination Search powered by Voice and Remote Start with climate control 3 years of complimentary SiriusXM® Travel Link (Data Services) 3 years of complimentary Annual Multimedia and Navigation Updates Up to $1,525 allowance for excess wear and use, excess mileage, and disposition fee for returning Genesis Finance customers Genesis is striking a balance between the car subscription services, which have questionable financial viability, and traditional basic leasing.  Genesis Spectrum will be available first in Florida and then roll out to select markets nationwide. 

  • ...fully covered everything for 3 years.

Drew Dowdell

Renault and Nissan want to Formally Merge; Make Bid for FCA

Financial Times is reporting that Renault wants to make the marriage to Nissan more official and formally merge.  Renault wants to start talks within the next 12 months and include a potential bid for automaker FCA .  The combined companies of Nissan, Renault, Fiat, and Chrysler would be a conglomerate that rivals the size of Toyota and Volkswagen.
Carlos Ghosn tried to start merger talks prior to his arrest for financial wrongdoing, however, the French government stopped his proposals. Renault currently owns roughly 43% of Nissan.
FCA has recently been in the news for potential talks with Peugeot to merge. Those reports were squashed when it came to light that the Agnelli family, who has a controlling stake in FCA, was not interested in a deal that was paid for with PSA stock.

  • .. Move from alliance to formal merger

Drew Dowdell

In 2030, Internal Combustion Engines will Still Reign

Market forecasts of the future is a fragile thing, yet LMC Automotive has a strong reputation as a consulting firm looking at the global markets. The daily announcements of electric-car churn, major production investments, battery supply, etc. is cause for people to want to take a reality check of the projections by various OEM producers to individual government pronouncements.
US projection is that fossil fuel light-duty autos will still be 69% or 7 out of 10 autos on the road in 2030. According to the LMC Automotive research report, 2018 saw that globally light vehicles running on fossil fuels were 95%. This is expected to drop to 92% by the end of 2019 yet a slowing of the change over from ICE to BEV is expected over the next decade. LMC is expecting a contraction of just 3 to 4 percent annually. This respected report is showing that more than half of the global vehicle demand will still have tailpipes and fuel tanks.
So let’s take a look at some of the facts starting with the country India where in 2017 it stated that they would be fully electric by 2030. Yet LMC own research points to India being only 3% electric by 2030. On the other end of the spectrum, we have China where LMC expects the country to have a majority of light autos be electric. LMC expects fossil fuel light autos to make up only 48% of the market by 2030 in China, BEV's will be 52%.
This is backed up by many other analysts that point to the massive growth of EV's in the next decade that eventually will taper off as costs stop falling for battery production and EV charging infrastructure. Electric cars are expected to be 55% of the global market by 2040 according to the Bloomberg New Energy Finance. One reason for slowing is the acknowledgment that not all markets will have the electrical infrastructure to support BEV auto's when many in countries like Africa do not even have electricity at their home.
Looking at the three major automotive markets of China, India and the US, LMC points to the differences in how the change will happen. China will use the carrot and stick approach pushed by the political elite to ensure the New Energy Vehicles (NEV) come to market. Automakers are getting subsidies to manufacture these NEVs and receive strict penalties if they fail to meet the government goals. Here is where demand for ICE autos will fall off the fastest. 
In the US, demand is expected to be gradual with growth being slowed by the oil industry that has every reason to keep the price of gas low. This is also being tempered by the popular rise of the pickup truck and SUV sales that will keep BEVs in check till these full-size autos are offered in pure electric mode.
Then we have India, per the LMC report where government ministers made global headlines in 2017 with their ambitious target to electrify the whole country by 2030 retiring all ICE autos. Including all types of transportation, 2, 3- and 4-wheel vehicles, the India government has since set a target of 30% BEVs by 2030 which LMC believes is unachievable.
Despite having adjusted goals, the India government has approved a 3-year $100 billion program to promote electric vehicle adoption. Even with this big push, LMC sees India with a 97% ICE market share in 2030.
Based on LMC's own 3-4% ICE decline annually, where ICE made 95% of global sales in 2018, expected to be 92% in 2030 ICE globally is still expected to make up 62% of global market if the 3% a year drop stays constant, yet numerous external factors will also affect this globally.
Yet to make this change happen, one critical area is needed to grow. Batteries are the new OIL of the 21st century. Bloomberg expects $548 billion in investments by 2050 in the battery production industry as costs fall, homes and businesses push for a more reliable clean energy source. Battery prices per kilowatt-hour are expected to be below $70, down 67% from today’s cost. Annual batteries to be commissioned by 2050 is expected to exceed 1,288 gigawatts of power.
To quote the Bloomberg story: “It’s a matter of ‘when and how’ and not ‘if’ wind, solar and battery technologies will disrupt electricity delivery all over the world,” Seb Henbest, lead author the report, said in an interview.

  • 95% of Auto's sold in 2018 globally were ICE, what should we expect in 2030?

G. David Felt

GM Inline-6 Diesel Rated

The GMC Build and Price tool has let the details slip on the power ratings of the upcoming inline-6 diesel due to be released in the Sierra and Silverado in a few weeks.  The 3.0 liter turbo diesel will produce 277 hp at 3,750 rpm and 460 lb-ft at a mere 1,500 rpm. The only transmission choice will be the 10-speed automatic. These numbers are SAE certified and verified by GM. The diesel motor will be available on LT and above trims on the Chevy and on all GMC trims except the base.
These numbers make the GM six more powerful than Ford's V6 Powerstroke diesel which runs at 250 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque.  The New Ram 1500 still hasn't gotten a diesel unit, but it will probably be the same rating as the 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque in the Jeep Gladiator.
One area still unknown on the GM unit is fuel economy. The Ford F-150 Powerstroke is EPA estimated for 30 mpg highway/25 combined/22 city. 
The GM diesels 1500 trucks will be at dealerships this summer. 
Related:
 

  • .... GM takes the light-duty diesel power crown.

Drew Dowdell

SMART Could Be the Next Dead Brand

SMART may be the next brand heading for that great parking lot in the sky.  German newspaper Handelsblatt has reported that the brand's fate may be decided by the end of this year.  CEO Dieter Zetsche is leaving in May to be succeeded by Olin Kallenius.  Mr. Kallenius has no strong love for the brand, established in 1998 and is said to be more than willing to kill the brand if finances warrant it. 
Since birth, SMART has lost billions of euros for Daimler, though the company does not break out financials by brand. 
Back in 2017, SMART revamped its lineup into an EV only brand, further denting sales while increasing costs.  The current Smart FourTwo and FourFour are a joint effort with automaker Renault who markets the vehicle as the Renault Twingo.  Renault is reportedly reluctant to renew that cooperation for the next generation of the car.  SMART's sales have fallen to around 128,000 units a year as of 2018.

  • ...Slow selling brand has lost Daimler billions of Euros

Drew Dowdell

FCA Turned Down PSA Merger Offer

The rumors that PSA and FCA may merge can be put to bed now.  Sources familiar with the discussion told the Wall Street Journal that executives from the respective companies are no longer in talks.  FCA was reticent about the idea because it would increase the companies reliance on the struggling European market, and the Agnelli family, who has a controlling stake in FCA, was not interested in a deal that was paid for with PSA stock. PSA would need to use equity to pay for FCA because they are still digesting their acquisition of Opel from General Motors. 
Had they merged, the combined company would produce over 9 million vehicles per year, putting them on a playing field with Volkswagen and Nissan-Renault.  It would also give PSA a much needed foothold into the U.S. market for their planned 2026 re-entry. 

  • ...company bosses are no longer talking.

Drew Dowdell

Next Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ in Development

With the introduction of the Toyota Supra, rumors have been swirling that the 86/BRZ twins might not be replaced when their production lives were up.  Autocar UK has a quote from Toyota's European Marketing Chief saying "[the GT86] has been a successful halo product for us" and added that "...the Supra is not to replace that car."
The 86/FR-S/BRZ was released in 2011 as a co-development between Toyota and Subaru.  It uses Subaru's boxer engine and transmission.  It is highly likely that the next generation model would continue to use the signature engine. The new car would continue sit below the Supra in the Toyota lineup. Akio Toyoda has stated interest in building a full lineup of sports cars.
Whatever comes from the next generation 86, we're just glad that SUVs haven't killed yet another sports car.

  • ...the small sports coupe from Toyota and Subaru lives on.

Drew Dowdell

It's the 9-Speed Automatics

Since the launch of the XT4 with the rather anemic (if more refined) LSY engine, many (including myself) had questioned why GM does not offer the Tripower 310 bhp / 348 lb-ft (L3B) 2.7T 4-cylinder in the XT4 (at least) as an option. To a lesser extent some have also questioned why the LSY is putting out a mere 237bhp / 258 lb-ft whereas the outgoing LTG engine is good for 265~272 bhp / 295 lb-ft. Is it just so that it can have 258 lb-ft arrive @ 1,500 rpm? Now, we have the answer...
It's the 9-speed Automatics.
Adopting the 9-speed automatics is deemed a priority for refinement and fuel economy. The new GM-Ford 9TXX transmissions, jointly developed with Ford promises better fuel economy and better shift quality. There are currently two versions of this transmission:-
9T50   -- 258 lb-ft 9T65   -- 280 lb-ft The need to pack 9-speeds into a very slim transmission case meant that they have to use an ovoid cross section torque converter, a tension chain coupling and abandon the high torque capability of the previous generation top dog 6T80 (369 lb-ft) transmissions used in the 410 hp / 368 lb-ft 3.6L Twin-Turbo (LF3) powered Cadillac XTS. The lack of torque capability is also in part why Ford abandoned the use of the GM-Ford 9TXX transmissions, choosing instead to develop an 8-speed evolution of the decade old 6T80 for use in their high torque applications like the Ford Edge ST (2.7L Ecoboost V6 with 335 hp / 380 lb-ft). Ford also asserts that the new 9-speed autos did not yield any fuel economy improvement when tested with their engines and the refinement improvements alone did not justify the costs and weight increases.

  • ...if you've wondered why GM's new 2.0T puts out such low numbers, we may have the answer.

dwightlooi

Porsche Introduces the Cayenne Coupe

Porsche showed the Cayenne Coupe at an event in Stuttgart yesterday.  The Cayenne Coupe is a more athletic version of the Cayenne SUV already on sale. The more steep roofline tumbles to the rear in an elegant fashion.  An adaptive roof spoiler as on the Cayenne Turbo helps with aerodynamic stability at higher speeds.  The spoiler extends by 135 mm (5.3 in) at speeds over 90 km/h.  In addition to increasing rear axle pressure, the spoiler improves fuel efficiency.
Standard on the Cayenne Coupe is a panoramic fixed glass roof, but buyers can also option a lightweight carbon roof as part of one of three lightweight sport packages.  The roof edge of the coupe has been lowered by 20 mm.  On the glass roof versions, an integrated roller blind helps to protect passengers from sun and cold.
Two engine options will be available at launch. A 6-cylinder 3.0 liter turbocharged engine with 335 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque is standard while a Cayenne Coupe Turbo gets a 4 liter twin-turbo V8 with 541 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque.  Top speed on the Turbo is 286 km/h (178 mph) and acceleration to 62 mph happens in just 3.9 seconds. 

  • ....A more athletic version of the Cayenne SUV.

Drew Dowdell

GM Orion getting $300 Million Upgrade; New Electric Chevrolet

GM Announced this morning that the company will be investing $300 million and adding 400 jobs at its Orion Township, Michigan assembly plant.  The investment will go towards facilities to produce a new electric vehicle for the Chevrolet brand.
The new vehicle will be the second such vehicle, after the Cadillac EV Crossover, to be built on GM's new BEV3 platform, an advance version of the same platform that underpins the Chevrolet Bolt EV.  
The Orion plant currently builds the Chevrolet Sonic, Chevrolet Bolt EV, and the Cruise AV test vehicles. There are about 880 hourly and 130 salary employees working there.
Along with the investment announcement for Orion, GM is announcing another $1.8 billion in U.S. manufacturing. This comes on the heels of the closure of the Lordstown assembly plant in Eastern Ohio.  The plant was the subject of a series of tweets by the President in an attempt to get GM to either sell the plant or quickly reopen it.  GM has said that it has 2,700 job openings available for the 2,800 employees that have been displaced by the recent idling of 5 of its facilities. 

  • ...move will bring 400 new jobs to Orion

Drew Dowdell

Toyota and Suzuki to Share Platforms for Overseas Market

Toyota and Suzuki are teaming up to share platforms and parts for markets other than the U.S.   
Suzuki will get two hybrid platforms for Europe.  Toyota will build vehicles on their RAV4 and Corolla Wagon platforms and also supply hybrid powertrain tech to Suzuki for use in other vehicles. 
Toyota will get access to Suzuki's new engine range designed for use under the new stricter EU emissions standards. Toyota will build the engines themselves in Poland. 
The two automakers are working together to build a two new compact vehicles for the India and four for the Africa markets. 

  • New tie up would provide market entries to each company in different markets

Drew Dowdell

BMW Issues Profit Warning for 2019

BMW has issued a profit warning for 2019, saying that profits will be well below last year's 7.2€ billion.  The company stated that higher raw material costs, unfavorable currency exchange, and compliance with stricter emissions standards are the main causes for the profit erosion. 
BMW is not planning for layoffs at this time, but those could come in the future as the company moves to simplify and consolidate its product portfolio. One area that will see cuts is in powertrains. BMW plans to cut the number of engine/transmission options in half and simplify platforms in a move to streamline operations.  BMW plans to reduce the development time of new vehicles by one third through its PERFORMANCE > NEXT program.  Part of the expected expense will be from the move to electrification. 
More from BMW's financial release on the next page. 


BMW Group sets strategic course for future 
 
Krüger: "Systematically working to ensure operationalexcellence" Operating efficiency: Performance > NEXT offers potentialefficiencies in excess of € 12 billion by 2022 Upfront expenditure expected to remain high New structure for sales divisions EBIT margin of 8 to 10 per cent remains ambition Challenges influence 2019 outlook Munich, Germany- March 20, 2019...On its way towards the mobility of the future, the BMW Group is taking strategic steps to enhance its operating performance on a sustainable basis. As well as systematically implementing its strategy NUMBER ONE > NEXT, the company is also focusing on faster processes, leaner structures and therefore greater efficiency. In view of the many challenges currently facing the automotive sector, the BMW Group is ensuring it maintains its financial strength to influence and decisively shape individual premium mobility moving into the next decade, just as it has over the past ten years.

"After three years of Strategy NUMBER ONE > NEXT, we remain firmly on course, having established a strong position as one of the world's top providers of e-mobility. We lead the European market and will soon go into series production of our fifth generation of electric drivetrain systems. We’re significantly expanding our presence in the upper luxury class. Our first highly automated vehicle will become available in 2021 and we are already now paving the way for the development of the next generation of groundbreaking technology. In the field of mobility services, we are joining forces with Daimler AG to create even greater momentum," said Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, in Munich on Wednesday. "We need to work systematically on our operational excellence in order to leverage these strategic advances and ensure our ability to use our own underlying strength to help shape the sector’s transformation going forward," he added.

To compensate for the increasing volume of upfront expenditure needed to drive the mobility of the future, the BMW Group is enhancing its business performance by comprehensively rolling out an array of new models. In the upper luxury class, for instance, the new BMW 8 Series (both the Coupé and the Convertible) and the new BMW X7 have already made their debut. The fully revamped BMW 7 Series is on its way to dealerships and will be flanked by the launch of the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé in the further course of this year. The Group's next step will be to significantly rejuvenate and expand its range in the compact class. With this aim in mind, the next generation BMW 1 Series will be launched in autumn 2019 and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, a new and highly emotive model, will be added to the compact segment in spring 2020 with a view to attracting new customers.

High potential for boosting efficiency with Performance > NEXT

Since 2017, the BMW Group has also worked systematically with Performance > NEXT to improve structural efficiency along the entire value chain. In this respect, numerous decisions have either been taken or are already being implemented. In view of the growing challenges and demands on resources, the Group intends to expand and intensify these efforts. By the end of 2022, it expects to leverage potential efficiencies totalling more than 12 billion euros. Many of the measures aimed at reducing product complexity will then come to full fruition in the following years.

"Our industry is witnessing rapid transformation. In this environment, a sustained high level of profitability is crucial if we are to continue driving change," said Nicolas Peter, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Finance. "In view of the numerous additional factors negatively impacting earnings, we began to introduce countermeasures at an early stage and have taken a number of far-reaching decisions. Discipline and a clear focus on rigorous implementation are essential as we aim to emerge from these challenging times stronger than ever."

Performance > NEXT will also benefit from the fact that processes can be significantly accelerated by the new opportunities digitalisation offers. For instance, development times for new vehicle models will be reduced by as much as one third. Among other savings, digital simulations and virtual validation could eliminate the need for some 2,500 expensive prototype vehicles by the year 2024.

The BMW Group continues to recruit skilled workers and IT specialists on a selective basis to engage in forward-looking projects such as digitalisation, autonomous driving and electric mobility. Nevertheless, the target for 2019 is to keep the workforce at the previous year's level. Compared to earlier years, the scale of natural attrition in the workforce has been exacerbated by demographic factors (including the baby boomer phenomenon), a situation which means the BMW Group can focus even more intensively on issues that will shape the future and increase efficiency. In addition, with effect from 1 April 2019 the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce automotive brands will be combined within a single sales division, clearly signalling a move towards even leaner processes and more efficient structures throughout the company.

On the product side, from 2021 onwards, up to 50 per cent of today's drivetrain variants will be eliminated in the transition to more sophisticated and flexible vehicle architectures. This approach will also enable the BMW Group to focus on the products most in demand. At model level, no successor will be developed for the current generation of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo. Moreover, the model portfolio is regularly assessed with a view to identifying additional potential to reduce complexity. Synergy and efficiency opportunities in indirect purchasing as well as in materials and production costs are also being leveraged.

Upfront expenditure set to remain high

The BMW Group intends to implement the measures outlined above to offset the ongoing high level of upfront expenditure required to embrace the mobility of the future. Substantial volumes of future-oriented expenditure are again planned for 2019.

At € 5,029 million, capital expenditure in 2018 was 7.3% above the previous year’s high level (€ 4,688 million). The Capex ratio rose to 5.2% (2017: 4.8%). Investments included work connected with the introduction of new models in the Spartanburg, Dingolfing and Munich plants and the building of the Group’s plant in Mexico. As planned, research and development expenses in 2018 were significantly higher than in the previous year and totalled € 6,890 million (2017: € 6,108 million; +12.8%). R&D expenditure for the year was therefore equivalent to 7.1% of Group revenues (2017: 6.2%). In addition to ramping up the roll-out of new models, the focus is also on future-oriented topics such as autonomous driving and the systematic expansion of electric mobility.

Pioneer systematically expands e-mobility product range

With more than 350,000 units (over 130,000 fully electric vehicles and more than 220,000 plug-in hybrids) delivered to customers up to the end of 2018, the BMW Group is already a leading supplier of electrified vehicles and expects to have more than half a million units on the roads by the end of the year. At the beginning of March, the new plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 3 Series, BMW 7 Series, BMW X5 and BMW X3, which now come with extended electric range, were showcased at the Geneva Motor Show. By the end of next year, the BMW Group will have more than ten new or revised models equipped with fourth-generation electric drivetrain technology ("Gen 4") on the roads.

By the end of 2019, these will include the all-electric MINI Electric manufactured at the Oxford plant and, from 2020, the BMW iX3, which will be produced for the world market in Shenyang, China. Together with the pioneering BMW i3, the BMW i4 and the BMW iNEXT, the Group will have five all-electric models on the market by 2021 and the number is scheduled to rise to at least twelve models by 2025. Including the rapidly growing range of plug-in hybrids, the BMW Group’s product portfolio will then comprise at least 25 electrified models.

This wide range of electrified models on offer will be made possible by highly flexible vehicle architectures and an equally agile global production system. Going forward, the BMW Group will be capable of manufacturing models with all-electric (BEV), hybrid-electric (PHEV) and conventional (ICE) drivetrains on one production line. The ability to integrate e-mobility in its production network will enable the BMW Group to respond even more flexibly as demand grows.

The BMW Group is currently developing the fifth generation of its electric drivetrain, in which the interplay of electric motor, transmission, power electronics and battery will be further optimised. Integrating the electric motor, the transmission and power electronics also plays a role in cutting costs. Furthermore, the electric motor does not require rare earths, enabling the BMW Group to reduce its dependence on their availability. The fifth generation of the Group's electric drivetrain technology will be installed for the first time in the BMW iX3 from 2020.

Cooperation for next generation of autonomous driving

The BMW Group believes long-term partnerships within a flexible, scalable, non-exclusive platform are key to advancing the industrialisation of autonomous driving. As early as 2016, the BMW Group established a non-exclusive platform with technology specialists, suppliers and OEMs to take the technology to series maturity and has now successfully consolidated work in this area at the Autonomous Driving Campus in Unterschleißheim, near Munich. The generation of technologies currently under development will go into series production as Level 3 automation in the BMW iNEXT in 2021, this vehicle will also be Level 4-enabled for pilot projects.

The BMW Group has joined forces with Daimler AG to advance the development of the next generation of technologies needed for autonomous driving. At the end of February, the two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop the technologies that are vital for future mobility. Initially, the focus will be on advancing the development of next-generation technologies for driver assistance systems, automated driving on highways and parking features (in each case up to SAE Level 4).

The BMW Group and Daimler AG view their partnership as a long-term, strategic cooperation and aim to make next-level technologies widely available by the middle of the coming decade. Combining the outstanding expertise of the two companies will boost their joint innovative strength. Moreover, it will both accelerate and streamline the development of future technology generations. The development of current-generation technologies and the ongoing collaborations both companies have in this field will remain unaffected and continue as planned. Both parties will also explore additional partnerships with other technology companies and automotive manufacturers that could contribute to the success of the platform.

Major investments in joint venture for mobility services

The BMW Group and Daimler AG are also working together in the field of mobility services, creating a new global player that provides sustainable urban mobility for its customers. The two companies are investing more than one billion euros to develop and more closely intermesh their offerings for car-sharing, ride-hailing, parking, charging and multimodal transport. The cooperation comprises five joint ventures: REACH NOW (multimodal), CHARGE NOW (charging), FREE NOW (ride-hailing), PARK NOW (parking) and SHARE NOW (car-sharing).

The common vision is clear: the five services will increasingly merge to form a single mobility service portfolio with an all-electric, self-driving fleet of vehicles that charge and park autonomously and also interconnect with other modes of transport. This service portfolio will be a key cornerstone in the BMW Group’s strategy as a mobility provider going forward. The cooperation represents the ideal approach for maximising opportunities in a growing market, while jointly shouldering the unavoidable cost of investment.

Challenging conditions in the financial year 2018

In terms of its core business, the BMW Group had always expected 2018 to be a challenging year. Compared with 2017, alongside additional upfront expenditure for the mobility of the future, a high three-digit million euro negative impact from exchange-rate and raw materials price developments had been factored into expected earnings for the year. As announced on 25 September 2018, several additional factors dampened business performance in the third quarter. Unlike many of our competitors, the BMW Group implemented the requirements of the WLTP regulations early. The industry-wide shift to the new WLTP test cycle resulted in considerable supply distortions in Europe and unexpectedly intense competition, given that numerous competitor models which had not yet gained WLTP certification were registered before the 1 September deadline. Within the framework of its flexible production and sales strategy, the BMW Group responded to the situation by reducing its volume planning to focus on earnings quality. At the same time, increased statutory and non-statutory warranty measures resulted in significantly higher additions to provisions in the Automotive segment. Ongoing international trade conflicts also served to exacerbate the market situation and feed uncertainty. These circumstances resulted in greater-than-expected distortions in demand and unexpected pressure on pricing in several markets.

Nevertheless, deliveries of the BMW Group’s three premium automotive brands (BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce) grew by 1.1% to a new record figure of 2,490,664 units in 2018 (2017: 2,463,526 units). At € 97,480 million, Group revenues were at the previous year’s level (2017: € 98,282 million: -0.8%). Adjusted for currency factors, they increased by 1.2%. Due to the various adverse aspects arising in the third quarter, combined with high levels of upfront expenditure for research and development, profit before financial result was € 9,121 million (2017: € 9,899 million; -7.9%). At € 9,815 million, Group profit before tax in 2018 was moderately down on the previous year, but nevertheless the second-best result ever recorded in the company's history (2017: € 10,675 million; -8.1%). At 10.1% (2017: 10.9%), the return on sales before tax (EBT margin) exceeded the target value of ten percent.

Group net profit amounted to € 7,207 million (2017: € 8,675 million; -16.9%). In the previous year, net profit was exceptionally high due to valuation effects of around € 1 billion arising in connection with the US tax reform. Despite very challenging conditions, the Automotive segment generated free cash flow of € 2,713 million in 2018 (2017: € 4,459 million).

Based on the annual financial statement, the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will propose payment of a dividend of € 3.50 per share of common stock and € 3.52 per share of preferred stock at the Annual General Meeting on 16 May 2019. This is the second highest payout in the company's history. The total dividend payment will amount to € 2.3 billion, or 32.0% of net profit (previous year: 30.3%3).

Automotive segment exposed to volatile business conditions

At € 85,846 million, Automotive segment revenues were at a similar level to the previous year (2017: € 85,742 million; +0.1%). Influenced by the factors referred to above and combined with high levels of upfront expenditure for research and development, EBIT was € 6,182 million (2017: € 7,888 million; -21.6%). Due to various adverse factors, the EBIT margin came in at 7.2% (2017: 9.2%). Profit before tax amounted to € 6,977 million (2017: € 8,717 million; -20.0%).

A total of 2,125,026 BMW brand vehicles were delivered to customers worldwide (2017: 2,088,283 units; +1.8%). As well as the BMW 5 Series (382,753 units; +10.2%), the BMW X family in particular benefited from strong demand during 2018, with worldwide deliveries up significantly on the previous year to 792,605 units (+12.1%). The BMW X3 made an important contribution to this performance, with deliveries up by more than one third to 201,637 units (+37.7%).

Worldwide deliveries of MINI brand vehicles during the twelve-month period totalled 361,531 units (2017: 371,388 units; -2.8%). The MINI Countryman recorded double-digit growth with 99,750 units (+17.5%). Almost every seventh MINI Countryman was a plug-in hybrid (13.3%).

In 2018, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars achieved its best sales result in over 100 years of corporate history with 4,107 deliveries worldwide (2017: 3,362 units; +22.2%). The Rolls-Royce Phantom contributed substantially to this performance.

While deliveries of the BMW Group’s three automotive brands in Europe remained at the previous year's high level (1,098,523; -0.3%), the Americas (457,715 units; +1.5%) and Asia (876,614 units; +3.3%) regions recorded slight growth. In China, volumes grew significantly as local production of the new BMW X3 was ramped up in the second half of the year. A total of 640,803 BMW Group vehicles were delivered to customers in the course of 2018 (+7.7%).

Motorcycles segment revises model range

BMW Motorrad revised its 2018 product range on a massive scale, adding nine new models. Production adjustments necessary during the ramp-up phase had a negative impact on deliveries during the first half of the year. Over the full year, 165,566 BMW motorcycles and maxi-scooters were delivered to customers (2017: 164,153 units; +0.9%).

Revenues totalled € 2,173 million (2017: € 2,272 million; -4.4%). Profit before financial result came in at € 175 million (2017: € 207 million; -15.5%), corresponding to a segment EBIT margin of 8.1% (2017: 9.1%). Profit before tax amounted to € 169 million (2017: € 205 million; -17.6%).

Financial Services segment records contract portfolio growth

The Financial Services segment continued to perform well in 2018. In total, 1,908,640 new contracts were signed with retail customers in 2018 (2017: 1,828,604; +4.4%). The contract portfolio with retail customers comprised 5,708,032 contracts at 31 December 2018 (31 December 2017: 5,380,785 contracts; +6.1%). Segment revenues totalled € 28,165 million (2017: € 27,567 million; +2.2%). Profit before tax amounted to € 2,161 million (2017: € 2,207 million; -2.1%).

Slight increase in workforce

The BMW Group’s workforce comprised 134,682 employees at 31 December 2018, 3.7% more than at the end of 2017. The Group continues to recruit skilled staff and IT specialists in future-oriented areas such as digitalisation, autonomous driving and electric mobility.

Business development in 2019 influenced by challenging environment

The BMW Group sets itself ambitious targets, even in politically and economically turbulent times. With its young product portfolio, further rejuvenated by new models such as the BMW X7 and the seventh generation of the BMW 3 Series, the Group aims to remain the world’s leading manufacturer in the premium segment, underpinned by growth in all major sales regions. In view of the various model changes currently in progress, business is expected to develop more strongly in the second half of the year.

In 2019, the BMW Group will continue to invest substantial amounts in new technologies and the mobility of the future. However, costs are also being driven up in other areas, including the significantly higher cost of complying with stricter CO2 legislation. Against this background, rising manufacturing costs are likely to have a dampening effect on earnings. Moreover, unfavourable currency factors and higher raw materials prices are expected to have a medium to high three-digit million negative impact. At the same time, the ongoing issue of international trade conflicts remains a source of uncertainty.

Taking all these factors into consideration, the BMW Group is confident of its ability to achieve volume growth in the Automotive segment, where it is targeting a slight increase in the number of deliveries to customers in 2019. Within a stable business environment, an EBIT margin in the range of 8 to 10% remains the ambition for the BMW Group. However, its ability to influence underlying conditions is limited. Based on the prevailing conditions described above, an EBIT margin of 6 to 8% is forecast for the Automotive segment in 2019.

The Motorcycles segment is forecast to achieve a solid increase in deliveries to customers thanks to its rejuvenated model range. As in 2018, the EBIT margin is expected to be within the target range of 8 to 10%. For its Financial Services segment, the BMW Group forecasts a return on equity at the previous year's level, and therefore above the underlying target of 14%.

In addition to the various negative influences described above, the fact that some positive valuation effects recorded in 2018 will not be repeated in 2019 will result in a significant decline in the Group’s financial result. Group profit before tax is therefore also expected to be well below the previous year's level.

Forecasts for the current year are based on the assumption that worldwide economic and political conditions will not change significantly. Any deterioration in conditions could have a negative impact on the outlook.

The BMW Group will vigorously continue to implement measures necessary to promote growth, improved performance and efficiency, thereby creating the freedom to enable it to shape the future and secure its own competitiveness going forward. Thanks to its operational and financial strength, the BMW Group is in an excellent position to shape the current transformation of the automotive sector and further develop its leading role in the industry.
  The BMW Group – an Overview
  2018
2017
Change in %
Deliveries to customers
Automotive
units
2,490,664
2,463,526
1.1
thereof: BMW
units
2,125,026
2,088,283
1.8
MINI
units
361,531
371,881
-2.8
Rolls-Royce
units
4,107
3,362
22.2
Motorcycles
units
165,566
164,153
0.9
Workforce1 (compared to 31.12.2017)
  134,682
129,932
3.7
EBIT margin Automotive segment 3
%
7.2
9.2
-2.0 % pts
EBIT margin Motorcycles segment 3
%
8.1
9.1
-1.0 % pts
EBT margin BMW Group 3
%
10.1
10.9
-0.8 % pts
Revenues 3
€ million
97,480
98,282
-0.8
thereof: Automotive 3
€ million
85,846
85,742
0.1
Motorcycles 3
€ million
2,173
2,272
-4.4
Financial Services
€ million
28,165
27,567
2.2
Other Entities
€ million
6
7
-14.3
Eliminations 3
€ million
-18,710
-17,306
-8.1
Profit before financial result (EBIT) 3
€ million
9,121
9,899
-7.9
thereof: Automotive 3
€ million
6,182
7,888
-21.6
Motorcycles
€ million
175
207
-15.5
Financial Services
€ million
2,190
2,194
-0.2
Other Entities
€ million
-27
14
-
Eliminations 3
€ million
601
-404
-
Profit before tax (EBT) 3
€ million
9,815
10,675
-8.1
thereof: Automotive 3
€ million
6,977
8,717
-20.0
Motorcycles
€ million
169
205
-17.6
Financial Services
€ million
2,161
2,207
-2.1
Other Entities
€ million
-45
80
-
Eliminations 3
€ million
553
-534
-
Income taxes 3
€ million
-2,575
-2,000
-28.8
Net profit for the year 3.4
€ million
7,207
8,675
-16.9
Earnings per share 2.3
€
10.82/10.84
13.07/13.09
-17.2/-17.2

  • ....aims to cut 12€ Billion in costs

Drew Dowdell

Could PSA Buy FCA?

The heads of FCA and PSA separately stated to journalists at the Geneva auto show that their respective companies remain open to the idea of partnering or merging with another company, though neither named which potential suitor that could be. 
Robert Peugeot, who's family owns around 14% of PSA group said, "We supported the [Opel acquisition] from the start,” he told Les Echo in an interview held Monday. “If another opportunity comes up, we will not be braking, [PSA Group CEO Carlos Taveres] knows that."
Meanwhile another potential partner could be Jaguar Land Rover.  
Merging with either company would give PSA better access to the US Market, something Peugeot is already planning on doing by 2026. 
For FCA, the benefits would be a more global partner and access to technology that would help meet Europe's strict emissions regulations.  On the flip side, it would mean 3 additional brands on top of the 7 that FCA already has. 

  • ... rumors are rumbling about a possible PSA / FCA merger. 

Drew Dowdell

BMW Teases the 2-series Grand Coupe

It will be a long wait till we see the final product,  but BMW has released a teaser picture of their upcoming 2-Series Gran Coupe 4-door sedan due to be released at the LA Auto Show later this year.  This car will compete with the Mercedes-Benz CLA and Audi A3 compact front wheel drive sedans.  The BMW  2-series Gran Coupe will be running with front wheel drive as well.  Under the hood expect a 2 liter turbo charged engine transversely mounted as in the BMW X2. In the X2, the motor produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque running through an 8-speed automatic. Don't expect a manual gearbox.  All-wheel drive is a possibility and may even be standard in U.S. bound models. 
Some performance variants will be available as well. The teaser picture reportedly shows the M Performance M235i which is rumored to have 300 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. 
We will likely have a wait until November to see the full product. Sales are expected to start in Spring of 2020.
Related:
 
 

  • ... BMW's competitor to the A3 and CLA.

Drew Dowdell

Ford Boosting Expedition and Navigator Production

Ford is adding 550 workers to their Kentucky plant that builds the Navigator and Expedition in order to meet surging retail demand for the big SUVs.  Retail sales were up 35% which has netted Ford a 5.6% gain in market-share for the Expedition.  The Navigator is doing even better with a 70% increase in sales. 
Ford has already increased line speed and split some jobs to multiple people in an attempt to increase  production. Vehicle production will be increased after the July shutdown. 
Along with the increase in production, Ford will be starting an advertising campaign focusing on the size and spaciousness of the Expedition.  
Ford increasing job and production in the US stands in sharp contrast to the steep cuts of over 6,000 jobs Ford announced for Europe. 

  • ...sales have surged 35%

Drew Dowdell

Rivian Files For Patent on Reconfigurable Bed

According to RivianForums.com, Electric vehicle startup Rivian has filed for a patent on an innovative new reconfigurable bed system for the Rivian R1T pickup truck.  The system is comprised of different moduals that can be swapped out depending on what use the owner has in mind.  Users would be able to choose from a flatbed, a cargo bed, a bed with side rails, and a couple of bed cap options.    The bed system shows off one of the advantages of the skateboard style platform that underpins the R1T and Rivian R1S. 
The truck will be able to detect which module is installed and adjust things like suspension dampening, ride height, and braking to best match the new configuration. 
This is the second patent filing for Rivian that involves modularity. The first was a removable truck bed auxiliary battery to extend the driving range of the vehicle.
Hit the source link below to visit Rivian Forums and check out their renders of possible configurations of the R1T reconfigurable bed system. 
Related:
 
 
 

  • ...shows off abilities of a skateboard platform

Drew Dowdell

SEC Sues VW and EX-CEO Winterkorn for Fraud

The U.S. Security and Exchange Commission has filed suit in San Francisco on Thursday alleging that from April 2014 through May 2015, Volkswagen fraudulently issued more than $13 Billion in bonds and securities in the U.S. market.  During that time, the SEC alleges that Winterkorn and other senior management knew about the problem with over 500,000 diesel vehicles that exceeded legal emissions limits. 
The suit says:
Winterkorn resigned within days of the scandal braking in 2015. 
Volkswagen said in a statement that the lawsuit is "legally and facturally flawed" and "the company will contest it vigorously".
Volkswagen has already agreed to pay more than $25 billion in a settlement over the dieselgate scandal to buy back defective vehicles, paying fines, and setting up funds to help build out electric vehicle infrastructure. Winterkorn has already been charged in the US.

  • ... sues to recover "ill-gotten gains"

Drew Dowdell

Ford Plans Over 6,000 European Layoffs

Ford's operations in Europe books a 351€ billion loss for 2018 in contrast to a 324€ billion profit the year prior.  Already in the midst of a major restructuring, Ford has now announced job cuts in Germany and the UK.
Ford employs roughly 24,000 people in Germany with expectations to lower that by 5,000 to 19,000 total. Most of the cuts are expected to come from voluntary redundancies and early retirement.   Ford aims to make the cuts "in the most socially responsible way possible."
In addition to the German job loses, another 1,150 employees will lose their positions in the UK. 
Ford has already shuttered an assembly plant in France and cut its vehicle lineup. 
Ford's moves follow that of Honda which is closing its plant in Swindon, Nissan which is reducing output in Sunderland, Infiniti leaving Western Europe and Volkswagen laying off 7,000 workers.

  • ...trying to pull EU operations back to profitability

Drew Dowdell

Trump Tweets for Action on Lordstown Plant

Trump posted multiple tweets regarding the closure of GM's Lordstown Ohio plant today.  In those tweets he says he has spoken to GM CEO Mary Barra about his displeasure over the closing of the facility.  He said he demanded swift action on either the selling of the plant or reopening it.   He further stated the Ms. Barra blamed the UAW for the closure.
 
In a further series of tweets, Trump mentioned that GM and the UAW will be starting talks in September of this year, but that he is impatient with that timeline.  Claiming that we have one of the best economies in history, he wants to see the plant opened or sold to another car company.  While Lordstown has shuttered on reality, on paper it still needs to negotiate its closure with the UAW during contract negotiations later this year. 
 
 
In a report last week, it appears that General Motors has something in the works for the Lordstown plant that Governor DeWine said could be a possible sale of Lordstown. 
Some have pondered why Trump is focusing on the Lordstown facility out of all 5 GM plant closures and the answer seems to be in Ohio's status as a presidential election swing state. 
UAW 1112 President David Green has sent multiple letters to Trump asking for his assistance to help save the facility, but at last report has not heard back from the administration.

  • ...demands selling it or reopening it quickly.

Drew Dowdell

Maybach to Build SUV in Alabama

Mercedes-Benz has annouced that the new Maybach SUV, built on the Mercedes-Benz GLS will be built exclusively in Alabama.  With an expected price over $200,000, the new SUV will then be the most expensive vehicle to be built in the U.S. 
Mercedes-Benz plans to expand the Maybach brand to other models where it makes sense in the upper end of the Mercedes lineup. 
The Mercedes Maybach GLS will have a V8 with north of 560 horsepower and will likely debut in China later this year. The vehicle is aimed primarily at the chauffeur driven population in China and as such, the rear seats are set up in a lounge like fashion.
The Alabama operation is also getting battery manufacturing operations, more than twice the size of the original assembly plant, due to build EQ vehicles starting in 2020.  The factory, which is capable of producing more than 300,000 units a year, exports approximately two-thirds of its production.  
Related:
 

  • Will be most expensive vehicle built in North America

Drew Dowdell

Fisker Shows First Look at New Electric SUV

Herick Fisker is back again after his original company succumbed to bankruptcy in 2014.  Now as Fisker, Inc., the latest vehicle he is showing is an electric crossover concept.  While we have a picture, the technical details are light.
The EV will be priced near $40,000 and have a 300 mile range.  Powered by an 80 kWh enhanced lithium-ion battery, there will be rear-motor rear wheel drive and optional dual motor all wheel drive available. 
Fisker is planning on the not-yet-named SUV in late 2021, just about a year after the Tesla Model Y is due to hit the market.  Fisker is planning on a Telsa-Like online only sales model with "nationwide concierge service". 

  • ..promises close to $40k price and 300 mile range

Drew Dowdell

New York 2019: Cadillac CT5 to Debut

Cadillac will be unveiling the CT5 sedan at the New York International Auto Show next month. 
The CT5 is build on the next generation of GM's Alpha platform and will come in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.  Power will be provided by either a 2.0T 4-cylinder or 3.0 Twin-Turbo V6.  Both engines will send power to the wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission.  The CT5  will offer Luxury and Sport trims.
In a video series called "Sensory Symphony", Cadillac slowly peels back the specially design camouflage film to trigger an ASMR response in the viewer while slowly revealing the car. This is to bring awareness to the CT5's auditory experience with active noise cancellation and other sound optimizations. 
The Cadillac CT5 will be built at GM's Lansing Grand River plant. 

  • The all-new CT5 replaces the CTS in the Cadillac lineup

Drew Dowdell

Tesla Unveils the Model Y

Tesla unveiled their newest addition to their lineup, the Tesla Model Y, last night at an event in Los Angeles. 
The Model Y is a crossover based on the Model 3 platform but is large enough to carry 7 adults. Inside, the high seating and panoramic roof lend a feeling of spaciousness.  A front trunk and split folding second-row seats provide a total 66 cubic feet of storage. Like on the Model 3, accessing the Model Y works from a connection to the driver's smartphone.  The Tesla Mobile App connects to features like remote door lock, Summon, remote pre-conditioning, location tracking, and more.  Tesla has built the Model Y to be the safest mid-size SUV with rigid body structure and large crumple zone.  
The Model Y will come in 4 powertrain variants.  The Standard Range version will start at $39,000 plus $1,200 delivery charge. It will also be offered in Long Range, Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive, and Performance.  The highest performance Model Y will have a 0-60 of 3.5 second and a top speed of 150 mph.  Standard Range battery will offer 230 miles of range while the Long Range version will offer 300 miles on a full charge. 

Deliveries of the Performance, Long Range, and Dual-Motor models will begin in Fall of 2020 while the Standard Range will begin deliveries in Spring of 2021.

  • ...deliveries don't start until Fall 2020

Drew Dowdell

Bond Going Green

The legendary character of James Bond is going green in the next film. But don't worry about Bond being put into a Pruis, the spy's ride will be an Aston Martin Rapide E sporting 602 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. Only 155 Rapide Es will be built retailing at £250,000 ($331,822).
The Rapide E has a top speed of 155 mph and can reach 60 from 0 in 4 seconds for fast getaways while the Pirelli P Zero tires feature sound deadening to make the vehicle as quiet as possible when sneaking up on villains. 
The move is a push by director Cary Joji Fukunaga who is described as "a total tree-hugger". 
The release of next Bond movie has been set back months by script re-writes and replacement of the original director.  Rami Malek who recently starred as Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody is reportedly in talks to be the next Bond villain. 
Aston Martin's ties with the Bond franchise goes back to 1964 when Bond drove an Aston Marti DB5 in Goldfinger. 
Related:
 

  • The next film will feature an Aston Martin Rapide E

Drew Dowdell

Toyota Investing $748M In North American Plants

Toyota announced today that they will be increasing their plan for a $10 billion investment in North America over 5 years to a $13 billion investment in the same time period.  Part of that will be an additional $749 million investment in plants in 5 states that will add 600 jobs to the roles. 
The changes include adding the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Lexus ES Hybrid to vehicle production in Georgetown, KY, adding engine and hybrid transmission capacity in Huntsville, AL and Buffalo, WV respectively, as well as adding casting capacity in Tennessee and Missouri. 
These additions are on top of a $1.6 billion investment into a new joint venture facility with Mazda in Huntsville AL that will add 4,000 jobs. 
Further details of Toyota's expansion can be read in their press release on page 2
Toyota Solidifies Its Substantial and Growing Investment in U.S.
Company Throttles Up Investments from Original $10 Billion Commitment to nearly $13 Billion Over Five Years with Focus on Advancing Electrification, Creating Hundreds More American Jobs
  By 2021, Toyota will now invest nearly $13 Billion in its U.S. operations with plans to add nearly 600 new jobs at American manufacturing plants Hybrid versions of the popular RAV4 and Lexus ES to be produced in Kentucky for the first time Production capacity increases and building expansions at Toyota’s unit plants in Huntsville, Alabama, Buffalo, West Virginia, Troy, Missouri and Jackson, Tennessee March 14, 2019 WASHINGTON (March 14, 2019) – For over 60 years Toyota has been growing its manufacturing presence in the United States, and today the company announced it will exceed its 2017 pledge to invest $10 billion over five years with a new commitment to reach nearly $13 billion over the same period.

Part of that commitment is seen today with an investment announcement of nearly $750 million in five different states, with more to come. The new investments include adding the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the best-selling SUV in the U.S., and Lexus ES 300h hybrid vehicle production at its Georgetown, Kentucky, manufacturing plant; expanding engine capacity at its Huntsville, Alabama, facility; doubling hybrid transaxle capacity at its plant in Buffalo, West Virginia; and a building expansion for additional castings at Bodine Aluminum’s Jackson, Tennessee, facility as well as additional castings at its Troy, Missouri, facility.

“These latest investments represent even more examples of our long-term commitment to build where we sell,” said Jim Lentz, chief executive officer for Toyota Motor North America. “By boosting our U.S. manufacturing footprint, we can better serve our customers and dealers and position our manufacturing plants for future success with more domestic capacity.”

A state-by-state look at the new investments totaling $749 million and 586 new jobs:
 
Alabama
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama (TMMAL) - $288,000,000
In Alabama, Toyota’s investment will increase annual engine capacity from 670,000 to 900,000 by the end of 2021 to increase product flexibility and better accommodate market demand. New 4-cylinder and V6 engine lines will add 450 new jobs to its Huntsville, Alabama, facility, the largest hiring need in the plant’s history. The investment also includes a building expansion. Overall, the plant represents an investment of $1.2 billion.

Kentucky
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) - $238,000,000
Toyota’s Kentucky vehicle plant, the company’s largest globally, will begin production of the Lexus ES 300h hybrid in May 2019 with annual capacity of 12,000 units while RAV4 Hybrid production will start January 2020 with an annual capacity of 100,000 units. TMMK’s 8,000 team members also build Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid and Lexus ES models with an annual capacity of 550,000 vehicles. Overall, the plant represents an investment of more than $7 billion.

Missouri
Bodine Aluminum Troy, Missouri - $62,000,000
Investments in Toyota’s Bodine Aluminum plant in Missouri will provide equipment to produce an additional 864,000 cylinder heads for Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA). Bodine’s 900 Missouri team members currently produce more than 3 million cylinder heads a year, which are made for every Toyota and Lexus manufactured in North America. Overall, the plant represents an investment of $455 million.

Tennessee
Bodine Aluminum Jackson, Tennessee - $50,000,000
The Tennessee investment includes a building expansion and equipment to double the capacity of hybrid transaxle cases and housings to 240,000 annually. The investment will also provide equipment to produce an additional 288,000 engine blocks a year for TNGA. The plant’s 300 team members currently produce 1.7 million engine blocks a year, which supply every Toyota and Lexus manufactured in North America, and 580,000 transmission cases and housings. Bodine will add 13 new jobs to its facility in Tennessee. Overall, the plant represents an investment of $365 million.

West Virginia
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia (TMMWV) - $111,000,000
The West Virginia investment includes a building expansion and equipment to double capacity of hybrid transaxles from 120,000 units (Start of Production-2020) to 240,000 units annually in 2021. To meet the production demands, TMMWV will add 123 new jobs to its facility in Buffalo, West Virginia. Overall, the plant represents a $1.4 billion investment.

Ongoing Additional Investment
Today’s news builds upon Toyota’s already expansive presence in the U.S., which includes 10 manufacturing facilities. This past year, Toyota announced a joint venture with Mazda to build an additional plant in the U.S. The $1.6 billion joint investment will create up to 4,000 new jobs in Huntsville, Alabama, with production slated for 2021. Meanwhile, Toyota’s Princeton, Indiana, plant is undergoing a $600 million transformation (previously announced) to incorporate TNGA and increase Highlander capacity by 40,000 units annually. With this, Toyota is adding 400-plus people to its team in Indiana. In Blue Springs, Mississippi, Toyota is launching the all-new 2020 Corolla on the TNGA line that included a $170 million investment and an increase of 400 jobs (previously announced). Currently, Toyota employs more than 37,000 Americans.

  • ...adding 600 jobs in five states.

Drew Dowdell

A Replacement for Displacement - Cadillac to Adopt New Engine Numbering Scheme

The saying goes there is no replacement for displacement, but at Cadillac that is no longer the case when it comes to the trunk badges.  Starting in 2020 on the XT6, Cadillac will drop the engine displacement badge from their vehicles. Instead, they will use a number that represents torque in newton-meters and rounded up to the next number that ends in 00 or 50.  Turbo models will get a T, while V-series models will retain their V in place of the number.
For the XT6, that means its 271 lb-ft of torque converts to 373 newton-meters and then gets rounded up to 400. 
Once the scheme rolls out to other models it could look like this:
XT4 2.0T - 350T
XT5/XT6 3.6 - 400
Escalade 6.2 - 600  (current model, future model could be different)
ATS/CTS/CT6 2.0T - 400T (current model, future CT4 and CT5 could be different)
ATS/CTS/CT6 3.6 - 400
CTS 3.6TT - 600T
CT6 3.0T - 550T
If the V-series cars used the numbers, it would look like this:
ATS 3.6 TT - 600T
CTS-V 6.2 - 900(S?)
CT6-V 4.2T - 850T
Cadillac President Steve Carlisle said "We're not talking about displacements anymore. [The new badging's] purpose is to communicate power and performance, not just for internal combustion engines, but also for other propulsion."  This is a nod to Cadillac's first all-electric model coming in 2022. Cadillac has not yet revealed what letter the electric vehicles will use. The CT6 PHEV still sold in China could potentially wear a 600 badge.
This move by Cadillac resembles Audi's move to a horsepower based naming scheme used in Europe.
The 2020 Cadillac XT6 will be built in Spring Hill TN and will go on sale later this year.
Related:
Detroit 2019: 2020 Cadillac XT6
Cadillac XT6 Gets $53,690 Starting Price
 
 

  • No more 2.0T, 3.6, or 3.0T badges

Drew Dowdell

2020 Hyundai Sonata Gets a New Platform

Last week, Hyundai released images of the 2020 Hyundai Sonata sedan, but was scant with the technical details.  Today, Hyundai revealed that the 2020 Sonata will ride on a new Third-Generation platform designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and driving performance. The platform underpinning the 2020 Sonata will eventually find its way into other products.
On the safety front, the platform uses super high tensile steel, hot stamping, and a multi-load path structure.  The Multi-load path helps in a collision by increasing the amount of energy absorbed by the structure and reduces intrusions into the passenger cabin.  In a small frontal overlap crash, the tires are designed to move outward to prevent spinning and possible secondary collisions.
To make the Sonata more efficient, the platform directs the flow of air to optimize cooling and heat dissipation. 
Stability and performance is enhanced by lowering the position of the engine and transmission to lower the overall center of gravity.  Dramatically increased lateral stiffness helps with handling agility.  Noise reduction is improved via reinforced sound-absorbing systems. 
Additionally, Hyundai has teamed up with Bose to create a specially tuned premium sound system with 12 channels. The system will use Bose Centerpoint technology to take a stereo signal and convert it to multiple channels. 
Powertrain information still has not been released.
The formal U.S. unveiling of the 2020 Hyundai Sonata is expected at the New York Auto Show next month.
 

  • Third-Generation vehicle platform enhances safety, efficiency, and driving performance

Drew Dowdell

VW To Downsize About 7,000 Jobs

Volkswagen has announced it will cut between 5,000 to 7,000 jobs through attrition and early retirement at its headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany.  Most of the job cuts will be administrative staff.  While cutting those job, VW will be creating 2,000 new software and electronics jobs.  The cuts are part of a cost savings plan to drive 3€ Billion in annual savings by 2020 and 5.9€ billion  by 2023. 
The move comes the day after the company announced it will increase its EV plans to build 22 million units over the next decade.  Electric vehicles are less complex to build and require fewer workers.
Volkswagen is building a new EV platform and the first vehicle to arrive on the market will be the I.D. Neo, expected sometime in 2020.  The I.D. Neo will be built at a plant in Zwickau, Germany.  Future electric vehicles will be built in 7 additional factories including Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

  • Most will be in Wolfsburg, Germany

Drew Dowdell

FCA to Recall over 860k Vehicles for Emissions Fix

The EPA has announced that FCA will be issuing a voluntary recall of 862,520 gasoline vehicles in the United States that do not meet emissions standards. The vehicles covered are the 2011-2016 Dodge Journey, 2011-2014 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger, 2011-2016 Jeep Patriot and Compass (with CVT and FWD), and 2011-2012 Dodge Caliber.
Due to the scope of the recall, the fixes will be issued in stages starting with the oldest vehicles. The fix involves replacing the catalytic converter. FCA has stated there are no safety concerns and no fines will be issued by the EPA. 
The issue was discovered during routing in-use emissions testing by FCA and subsequently reported to the EPA. 
FCA just settled a claim by the EPA that FCA used a cheat device in its diesel trucks and SUVS. 

  • Issue was discovered and reported by FCA.

Drew Dowdell

GM Could Be Gearing Up to Sell Lordstown

After announcing the closure of 5 plants back in November, General Motors ended production of the Chevrolet Cruze at the Lordstown Ohio assembly plant last week.  Now, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has said that in his discussions with General Motors, that the company has plans to make an announcement in about 4 to 6 weeks.  DeWine said that it is his understanding that GM is looking to sell the plant, but that he doesn't know who GM is talking to. 
While he reiterated his uncertainty, he said
The governor stated he or his office is in contact with GM at least twice a week. 

  • An announcement could be coming in four to six weeks.

Drew Dowdell

VW Raises EV Goal to 22 Million

Volkswagen has announced they are increasing their goal to build fully electric vehicles from 15 million to 22 million over the next decade. The company is moving to electric vehicles after a disastrous diesel emissions cheating scandal hit sales and resulted in record breaking government fines, and European and Asian government impose new restrictions on carbon dioxide emissions.
The core Volkswagen brand saw profits fall, while the overall company profits rose 6% to 12.2€ Billion. 

  • Increases goal from 15 million to 22 million over the next decade. 

Drew Dowdell

GKN introduces an EV 2 Speed Transmission

Your probably thinking, did I read the teaser right? Did it really say 2,581 lb-ft of torque or 3,500 NM from a 160 horsepower or 120 kW motor with torque vectoring?
Yes, Yes you did! 
GKN Automotive is proud to unveil the world's first battery electric vehicle (BEV) with a two-speed transmission and torque vectoring. GTD19 demonstrator vehicle is built from a Jeep Renegade and is currently in Arjeplog, Sweden undergoing winter testing. To prove the industry-leading standards of efficiency, safety and driving dynamics in this BEV model, GKN choose to go with a FWD version where torque vectoring can provide noticeable benefits than in a rear wheel drive or all-wheel drive platform. To Quote GKN:
Why a two-speed gearbox? The setup in the GTD19 is engineered to ensure the shifts are seamless, with minimal loss of power and torque while providing faster acceleration and higher top speed with improved efficiency. What is the top speed you ask? The eTwinsterX allows a top speed of 155 mph or 250 kph.
To quote Hannes Prenn, COO of GKN ePowertrain:
The all new eTwinster powertrain can be easily adapted and integrated into existing vehicle platform for FWD, RWD or AWD configurations. Twinster torque vectoring delivers swift and smooth acceleration while providing greater lateral control and optimized driving dynamics. GKN has stated their eTwinster system is smaller than many equivalent systems from competitors allowing it to be easily integrated into existing vehicle plate forms as they did with the GTD19 replacing it's ICE powertrain. The small size allowed GKN to install in place of the ICE, the complete solution of electric motor, inverter controls, eAxle along with all required cabling leading to a very thin battery pack underneath the GTD19.
GKN system integration allows them to offer the eTwinster powertrain as a readily adaptable solution for all types of auto's from all-wheel drive hypercars to plug-in hybrid luxury SUVs to entry-level city cars.
If you have ever been in a Range Rover Evoque Hybrid, then you have already experienced the Twinster system as it can be added to the Hybrid solution with the Twinster unit in the back helping to improve the dynamics and calibration of the auto. This GKN solution will also show up in the Opel Insignia. To quote GKN:

Where else will you see this amazing system that was the number one hybrid / electric vehicle system shown at the Geneva Auto show this year is in the BMW M3 Concept, Volvo XC90 demonstrator which will be paired with the T8 Twin Engine Plug-in Hybrids as well as Mercedes-Benz AMB GLA45 prototype.
 
 

  • Do you want a 160 horsepower / 2,581 lb-ft of torque JEEP Renegade with torque vectoring? GKN thinks you do!

G. David Felt

Vanishing Van, is it Passenger or Cargo?

In the latest round of Trade War rhetoric is a question that has ended up in the courts, when is a passenger van really a cargo van and does this tariff engineering really justify getting around the 25% chicken tax?
In response to President Donald Trump's tariff war, automakers are find interesting ways to play the grey area of the legal system. According to BNN Bloomberg and Bloomberg news, trade attorneys are closely watching the Ford Motor Co. legal case play out in federal court. This case deals with the importation of passenger vans that are then stripped down once they clear customs and sold as cargo vans. The difference here is that Ford pays 2.5% import duty on passenger vans versus te 25% import duty on light trucks / cargo vans. This challenge against Ford brought by U.S. Customs is challenging the practice of tariff engineering. The art of building a product one way, then changing it once cleared by customs for another use. With all the increased tariffs imposed by the Trump administration this could have critical impact on a region that many automakers have used to bring in a profitable product for market needs. 
According to the news stories, a ruling by the Court of International Trade ruled in Ford's favor in 2017 but is being challenged by the administration in the U.S. Court of Appeals. Regardless if the U.S. and China come to terms for a new trade agreement, there are no promises that the in place tariffs would be repealed. Ford's argument is that tariff engineering is a legitimate maneuvers for firms exploring ways to mitigate duties by project reclassification, shifting production to other countries which changes the origins of product assembly.
Trade lawyers across the country say this case will help establish legal guidelines for tariff engineering. To quote the story from BNN Bloomberg: 
The U.S. Court of International Trade has stated that under the well-established customs law, manufacturers can intentionally make a product that can avoid higher tariffs with simple changes. What cannot be done is situations such as hiding a higher quality product in a lower quality product like high grade tobacco inside a case of lower grade tobacco. This case has come down to the wording on the import paperwork of "principally designed for the transport of persons". The current administration says this is a scheme for avoiding taxes and local jobs. Ford argues that the goods must be classified in their condition as imported, regardless of later alterations and ended use by consumers.
Appeals court is expected to rule in the coming weeks.

  • Obscure Legal question could decide the fate of Ford's small vans in America.

G. David Felt

Infiniti Pulls Out of Western Europe; Cancels QX30

Infiniti announced today that they will exit the Western European market to concentrate on their growth areas in North America and China.  The company stated that regulatory challenges and competition from other premium priced cars were the main factors in its decision. There are 55 Infiniti dealerships in Western Europe.
As part of the move, Infiniti is canceling the Q30 sedan and QX30 crossover which is sold in the US.  Both vehicles are built in the UK at Nissan's Sunderland plant. Nissan recently announced they will not be building their X-Trail SUV in the UK. Nissan is also rumored to be cutting Leaf and Qashqai production at the Sunderland plant. This follows recent moves by Honda and potentially BMW to end automobile production in the UK in fear of a no-deal Brexit. 
In January, Infiniti's President Christian Meunier admitted the QX30 was a flop, but said that the model would continue on an all-Infiniti platform.  The exit from Europe now puts those plans into question. 
Infiniti will remain in Eastern Europe, North America, and China and will electrify most of its products by 2021.
Related:
Honda Confirms Swindon Closure
Nissan and BMW Could Pull Production from UK
LA Auto Show: Infiniti QX30

  • Last year Infiniti only sold 5,800 vehicles in Europe

Drew Dowdell

Audi TT On The Chopping Block

Another car is potentially on the chopping block as consumers continue their push into SUVs and Crossovers.  Bram Schot, CEO of Audi, was asked by Autocar about the future of Audi TT. His words were grim for the lovers of 2-seater sports cars.
Rumor has it that a possible replacement could be a 4-door liftback car, but that it would not be called TT.  As recently as November, Audi was denying the 4-door TT variant, but if it takes a new name, that may leave the company enough wiggle room.
Audi has been reducing complexity in their lineup by reducing the number of variants and engine options. Schot blames part of the reasoning on having to finance electrification saying that Audi cannot afford to electrify and also be in every single segment.  
The potential demise of the TT follows the recent announcement that the Mercedes-Benz SLC will be entering retirement after the next model year. 
The Audi TT just received a facelift and will likely be on sale till at least 2022.

  • There may not be a next gen Audi TT, but something else could take its place.

Drew Dowdell

Karma Shows Teaser of New Car

Karma released a teaser image of an unnamed concept car that will be fully unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show on April 16th.  The car is the result of a partnership with Pininfarina.  The front view of the car shows thin, horizontal daytime running lamps in presumably LED, a lighted logo, and a deep lower air spliter with 16 vertical teeth. 
Also being shown at Shanghai will be a refreshed version of the Karma Revero.   

  • One of three new vehicles to come to the Shanghai Auto Show.

Drew Dowdell

New 3-Row Jeep to Get New Name

During an announcement that FCA will be building a new manufacturing plant in Detroit, FCA let it known that in addition to the forthcoming full-size Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer SUVs, another new 3-row SUV was in the works for Jeep.   Auto Express UK reports today that this new SUV will technically be a 3-row version of the Grand Cherokee, but Jeep President and FCA Boss Mike Manley thinks it will not wear the Grand Cherokee name, instead taking on an new moniker.  His reasoning for not re-using the name is that the Grand Cherokee is such an iconic name and image. It would be like if Jeep dramatically changed the Wrangler, he'd face a customer revolt. 
The last 3-row SUV Jeep sold was the 2006 - 2010 Jeep Commander. Jeep currently uses the Commander name on the Grand Commander, based on the smaller Cherokee, as a China-Only model. 
Manley says that the segment the Grand Cherokee plays in covers both 2-row and 3-row SUVs, so the Grand Cherokee has only been covering about 40% of the potential market. Moving into this segment would allow Jeep to compete more directly with the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot.
FCA already sells a vehicle in the 3-row segment with the Dodge Durango which also rides on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee.  No future plans have been announced for the Dodge Durango, so it could be that this Jeep will take over for the Durango in the FCA lineup.
FCA hopes to break ground on it's new facility by the end of 2nd quarter 2019 and have the first of the new 3-row SUVs rolling off the line by the end of 2020 as 2021 models.
Related:
Quick Drive: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Trackhawk

  • The 7-seater will play in the same segment as the Grand Cherokee.

Drew Dowdell

Tesla Reverses Plan to Close Stores

On February 28th, Tesla announced that they would be closing most of their retail locations and moving to an online sales model in order to cut costs.  In a blog post yesterday, Tesla has reversed course on that position somewhat, and will not only close a portion of their stores. 
Some of their locations, around 10%, have already closed and Telsa said they would have closed anyway due to low foot traffic.  Another 20% of locations are currently under review and depending on performance will be decided on in the next few months. 
All sales will still remain online only, and customers who come into the stores will be shown how to order their vehicle online.  The 1000 mile or 7 day return policy (minus the non-refundable delivery charge) will remain in effect for any customer who has doubts about their purchase.  The remaining Tesla stores will have cars available for test drive and will keep a small number of vehicles in stock for people who want to take delivery immediately. 
To compensate for this change in direction, Tesla will be raising prices by 3% on the more expensive trims of Model 3, and the Model S and Model X.  The base Model 3 remains $35,000 plus $1,200 delivery charge. Current prices are valid until March 18th.

  • Will raise prices on certain models and trims 3% to compensate.

Drew Dowdell

Afterthoughts: The French Question

The reaction Peugeot’s return to the U.S. Market a couple weeks back falls into three categories.
OMG! We're getting exciting French cars again Why is another automaker coming to the U.S.? Split between 1 and 2 I should say that I fall into camp three at the moment. Previously, I was in number one when the rumors began to swirl around about PSA Group - parent company of Peugeot, Citroen, DS, Opel, and Vauxhall - making a possible return in late 2014. The dreams about possibly seeing a small number of Citroen and DS vehicles running around the U.S. sparked some joy. Peugeot was nowhere to be seen in my fantasy as they were seen to be somewhat bland in terms of their design.
But once I had my dream play through my head, I began to wonder if this could work out for PSA Group. Despite being seen as the holy grail to many outside automakers, the U.S. is very notorious to break in and keep going forward. Consider these quotes from a 2016 report in Automotive News (Subscription Required).
So when PSA made their official announcement in 2016, some of my worries began to drift away.
PSA would also conduct extensive research into the U.S. marketplace to determine which brand would take the charge. The end goal was to possibly have a brand in the country by 2026. Possibly is the keyword as they made clear that could pass on this idea if various conditions weren't met.
Since that announcement, PSA has been making some inroads into this plan,
Establishing a North American office and bringing in Larry Dominique (formerly of Nissan and TrueCar) as the head Launching a ride-sharing and car sharing app in various U.S. cities Starting to develop vehicles for the U.S. The most recent announcement of Peugeot as the lead brand surely disappointed some folks as the likes of the C4 Cactus and DS5 would not arriving. But the decision does show the amount of thought and work that has been happening behind the scenes. 
Still, PSA Group and Peugeot still have a tough hill to climb. Reading through the comments on the article written by Drew, there are two common issues pointed out. One is how Peugeot doesn't have anything unique in their lineup. Two is how Peugeot could be entering a marketplace that is possibly on the verge of a recession.
Let's begin with design. Out of all of the brands under the PSA umbrella, Peugeot plays it very much safe in terms of design. While the brand has been taking some risks in the past few years (especially with their interiors) they are no-where near the likes of Citroen. This difference is very apparent in the history of the two brands, 
Peugeot producing vehicles that were efficient and simple. But some of those design could jump in terms of elegance. Citroen pushing the envelope with their designs that are either praised or hated. DS falls under this umbrella as well. My hunch is that PSA figured that sending either Citroen or DS would be problematic because they might not appeal to consumers, and just sit on lots.
The second reason does hold slightly more water. Signs are beginning to appear that the U.S. economy could be heading towards a recession - a key item being pointed at is the drop in new car sales. If Peugeot was to enter at the present time, the consequences could be severe and put them in a difficult spot.
But as noted, Peugeot will not be arriving until 2026. That's over six years away and in that time, the economy could be recovering from the recession in question. 
Time is also the biggest enemy to Peugeot. In six years time, the U.S. marketplace could be in a completely different state than where it stands now. Crossovers and SUVs dominate the sales charts at the moment, but it might be electric vehicles that become the dominant choice. There are also various regulations that may come into fruition, along with the possibility of new tariffs on vehicles built in Europe.
There’s also the issue of trying to stand out in the U.S. marketplace. Consider this for a moment; there are over forty automakers selling just under 300 or so nameplates. With the prospect of more automakers from China expected to arrive in the next few years, Peugeot might be entering a crowded field. Some of their current models have the looks, but can it combat strong competition that has a long history and reputation in the country?
One item is very clear, PSA Group isn't stupid. They're taking their time and doing a lot of behind the scenes work before introducing their first models in the U.S. Whether or not this proves to the big success or the white flag being raised remains to be seen.

  • Peugeot is making a comeback to the U.S.! Hooray?

William Maley

Carlos Ghosn Released on Bail and Leaves in Japanese Laborer Disguise

Japanese journalists await Carlos Ghosn who was expected to be released from Jail on bail after the Tokyo court granted the bail request. Ghosn lawyer's office said it would be near impossible for him to be released the same day due to an appeal by the prosecutor's office.
Ghosn was granted bail set at $1 billion yen or equal to $9 million US at today's exchange rate. Ghosn is 64 and head of the auto alliance of Nissan Motors, Mitsubishi Motors, and Renault. He was arrested in 2018 on suspicion of underreporting his income by more than $80 million US dollars and saddling Nissan with his personal investment losses, allegations he denies.
Ghosn new legal team was able to get bail granted on the conditions he will be kept under guard locally with limited to no outside information. Ghosn has claimed that the executives of Nissan are responsible for his arrest as they plotted and committed treason to prevent him from bringing Nissan further under Renault's control.
While Carlos Ghosn has resigned from the CEO position on all three companies, he remains on the boards of all three companies.
Yet now that he is out on bail he seems to be insulting the average workers of Japan and according to various stories, his new legal team has apologized for advising the former CEO to leave jail in a disguise being taken away in a work van with ladders attached to the roof.
Local news outlets have mocked the costume drama bringing more attention than if he had just left on his own in normal business attire and in a business auto. Ghosn is one of the highest-profile detainees which also has made him one of the most famous now.
Ghosn was seen later in the day walking with two women, one believed to be his wife and the other his daughter in a Tokyo park by where he will be living surrounded by press and still wearing the blue baseball cap and sunglasses.


 

  • Carlos Ghosen leaves jail disguised as a Japanese laborer on bail.

G. David Felt

Acura Planing Product Blitz

Pebble Beach could mark the debut of a nearly production-ready version of the Acura Precision concept. The concept debuted at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show and previewed Acura's Precision Crafted Performance design theme first seen in production on the 2019 Acura RDX.  While there are (hopeful?) rumors that the 4-door coupe will wear the name Legend, there is not enough evidence to support them. What that means for Acura's aging RLX sedan is anyone's guess. 
Also coming is an updated Acura TLX with a Type-S version, a new Acura MDX, and rumor has it even the ZDX may be making a return.  All of these could debut over the next 12 to 18 months, but Pebble Beach is in August, so we'll just have to sit tight until then.
 

  • Do you miss the ZDX? If so, there might be hope for you. 

Drew Dowdell

Chrysler Pacifica Could Get All-Wheel Drive

The Chrysler Pacifica is often considered the best of a very small market.  There are only five mini-vans left on the market, and only one of those has all-wheel drive optional, the Toyota Sienna.
That stat could be changing if rumors about the Chrysler Pacifica prove true.  According to Automotive News, Chrysler is hard at work on an AWD option for the Pacifica.  While not officially confirmed by Chrysler, the union chief for the Windsor plant where Pacifica is built appears to have spilled the beans. If AWD does come to the Pacifica, it may not be until the 2021 model year.
Adding AWD would be likely help to boost sales in the North East US and in Canada. Chrysler moved 118k Pacificas in 2018 vs. 151k Dodge Caravans which sell at a lower price. Combined, the two minivans are 56% of the total minivan market. 

  • One way to make the best even better.

Drew Dowdell

Cadillac XT6 Gets $53,690 Starting Price

Currently, the least expensive way to get into a 3-row Cadillac was to pony up $76 kilo-dollars for a base Cadillac Escalade. Even then, check too many boxes on the option sheet and the price could easily head well into the $80k range.  When the Cadillac XT6 hits dealership later in couple months, that line in the sand will fall by over $20k.
Cadillac will begin taking orders on the XT6 later this month with a base price starting at $53,690. That gets you a front-wheel drive Premium Luxury model.  The XT6 Sport with standard all-wheel drive starts at $58,090 (including destination charge for both).
All XT6 models are powered by a 3.6 liter V6 producing 310 hp and a 9-speed automatic transmission shifting power to the wheels.  Active fuel management and Start/Stop are standard.  The Sport model features standard Continuous Damping Control suspension.
You can read more about the Cadillac XT6 from our coverage of the reveal at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show.
 

  • Now a less expensive way to get a 3-row Cadillac

Drew Dowdell

Tesla Releases Version 3.0 of Supercharging

Tesla announced the evening of March 6th 2019 that Version 3.0 of their supercharging network would roll out across the globe and be in place by the end of calendar year 2019. With the growth of the global market and to support a ever growing base of Tesla 3 owners and the upcoming new products, charging needed to get faster to reduce wait times by their customers. As such. V3 Supercharging was born out of Tesla's experience with the world's largest grid connected batteries enabling Tesla to surpass all OEM auto competitors in recharging their electric auto's.
V3 Supercharging is a utility scale new architecture product that can delivery a peak rate of 250kW per car using a new 1MW power cabinet delivered via liquid cooled charging lines. This allows the Tesla 3 to recover 75 miles of range in 5 min with a charge rate of 1000 miles per hour. This new charging technology cuts the average time spent recharging by 50%. In addition to the new 250kW Superchargers, Tesla is able to push out an update to the existing V2 Superchargers that will allow a 145kW charge rate on the 12,000 plus V2 Superchargers around the world. This will be coming in the next couple of weeks as Tesla works to reduce charge times at existing charge stations. Tesla is expecting to double by the end of the calendar year 2019 the number of Tesla auto's on the road globally and having a faster recharge time on existing Superchargers is critical, but in high volume areas, this will need to be addressed and Tesla says they can do this by adding the 250kW chargers to existing stations.
 
Tesla V2 charging cable to the left, V3 liquid cable to the right.

This new supercharger no longer splits power with the vehicle next to you  but delivers the full amount of charge to your battery. Tesla expects the average time spent by a customer at a Supercharging station to drop to 15 min on average. 
Tesla is also pushing out to Tesla 3's a new On-Route battery Warmup software feature that will intelligently heat the battery to the optimal temperature so that at the time of arrival at the supercharging station it can take a full high capacity charge quickly to get you on your way. This becomes very important as Tesla says with the Model Y on the way V3 SuperCharging is the only way Tesla can sustain quickly keeping people moving and not waiting around.
San Francisco bay area will get the first of the all new V3 Supercharger stations. These new V3 chargers will be made available to the Tesla Early Access Program participants. V3 Supercharging stations will get installed in North America during Q2 & Q3 time frames with Asia and Europe installations starting in Q4 of 2019.
Now you might ask what about the Tesla S and X auto's? While they currently will not be able to take advantage of the 250 kW chargers, Tesla does say in their release that in the coming months, Tesla S and X will get software updates to allow them to use the 145kW V2 Superchargers.
One might ask how does this compare to what the VW-backed Electrify America network? Electrify America is currently rolling out 350 kW capable chargers. These chargers will allow a Tesla 3 to get 185 miles of range in 9 minutes once the Tesla 3 has their new Software update.
The Future of ultra fast recharging is coming and should allow a revolutionary change in the way people drive.

  • Can charge at a rate up to 1000 miles of range in one hour

G. David Felt

Polestar Not Getting Volvo's Speed Limit

Volvo caused a stir on Monday when it announced that it would begin setting a 112-mph top speed on all of its vehicles starting with the 2020 model year. The goal of the limit is to strive toward Volvo's Vision 2020 Plan to eliminate fatalities or serious injury in all Volvo new vehicles.
That release made no mention of Volvo's Polestar brand. CNET Roadshow interviewed Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath who said "We obviously will not do that, and it is a nice brand differentiator".  Polestar is considered a performance brand, but he thinks that talking maximum speed is missing the point with regard electric cars. Most of the focus on EVs tends to be around the 0-60 performance rather than max speed. 
As Polestar is still a Volvo at heart, it will benefit from Volvo's safety know-how, but it won't pursue a safety image like Volvo has.
Polestar unveiled the Polestar 2 electric car at the Geneva Auto Show this week.  Read more below.
Related:
 
 
 

  • No 112-mph limit for Polestar

Drew Dowdell

New York 2019: 2020 Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai has released pictures of the next generation 2020 Hyundai Sonata about a month ahead of the cars formal debut at the New York International Auto Show.  This eighth generation Sonata is an all-new design that is much bolder than the rather conservative model currently on sale.   The new design theme is called Sensuous Sportiness.
The new car is larger than the outgoing model by 1 inch in width, 1.4 inches in wheelbase, and 1.8 inches in length. Hyundai has made efforts to improve the premium feel of the cabin.  The dash has a minimalist feel to it while the dash cluster and infotainment system are fully digital. 
One notable feature is the daytime running lamps.  When illuminated, the lights run on a strip up the outer seams of the hood, but when switched off they appear as pieces of chrome trims. Hyundai calls them Hidden Lighting Lamps.  The Sonata will also feature a digital key that will allow drivers to use their smartphone to unlock and start the car.
No word yet on powertrains.
The 2020 Sonata will debut at the New York Auto Show in April and will go on sale later this year.
Related:
 
 

  • A big bold update over the conservative current model.

Drew Dowdell

Ford Updates the Transit for 2020

Ford released their new 2020 Ford Transit yesterday at the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. 
While it has been updated alll over, the biggest changes are mechanical.  The biggest news is around the new all-wheel drive system. Ford designed the Transit's AWD to not raise the load floor or seat height, making the AWD model as easy as the RWD model for entry, exit, and loading.  The AWD system can send 100% of the torque to the front wheels when needed in low traction situations.  All-wheel drive will only be available on gasoline engine equipped Transits.
Under the short hood is a choice of an all-new gasoline V6 which replaces the 3.7 liter, an all new 2.0 liter bi-turbo 4-cylinder diesel which replaces the 3.2 diesel, and a carryover 3.5 liter Ecoboost gasoline V6, now with start/stop.  Both of the gasoline engines can be ordered with heavy duty alternators to help run add-on equipment.  No matter which engine is chosen, power is shifted through a 10-speed automatic.
All new 2020 Transits get standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, post-collision braking, lane-keeping system, and auto high-beam headlamps.  Passenger XLT versions are equipped with those features plus Ford's Co-Pilot360 which includes blind-spot information system, cross-traffic alert, and side and rear sensing system. 
The 2020 Ford Transit will hit dealers Fall of 2019.
Ford Press Release on Page 2


A MOM, A HIKER AND A DELIVERYMAN WALK INTO A SHOWROOM; EACH DRIVES OUT IN A NEW 2020 FORD TRANSIT
New features for best-selling Ford Transit family include available all-wheel drive for improved traction; 2020 Transit also sees two all-new engines and new 10-speed automatic transmission New driver-assist features – including standard Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking and available Ford Co-Pilot360™ technologies – help improve on-road confidence, uptime and productivity for customers Standard FordPass Connect™ modem with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and connectivity for up to 10 devices helps drivers stay in touch with their vehicle, business and customers INDIANAPOLIS, March 5, 2019 – Proving once again that the best never rest, Ford – America’s van leader for 40 years – improves its best-selling Transit family with smart new technology, advanced driver-assist features and enhanced capability for a wide range of customers whether they use their vans to carry kids, seek out adventures or deliver cargo.
“When we introduced Transit five years ago, it immediately became America’s go-to full-size van for fleets, small businesses and large families,” said Mark Buzzell, Ford director, fleet, lease and remarketing operations. “We listened to our commercial and family customers and updated Transit with useful amenities like standard Wi-Fi so kids or crew can stay connected, and helpful driver-assist features like available adaptive cruise control to take the stress out of traffic.”
Upgrades include an available all-wheel-drive system, all-new 2.0-liter EcoBlue® bi-turbo I4 diesel, all-new 3.5-liter PFDi V6 gasoline engine with port fuel and direct injection and new 10-speed automatic transmission, plus new interiors and seating options.
The 2020 Ford Transit offers the most vehicle configurations in its class to help customers specify just the right van for any job. In addition to cargo van, passenger van, chassis cab and cutaway, a new crew van joins the lineup. It can carry five people in two rows of seating with side curtain airbags. Tailored for owners who need to move larger crews plus gear to a job site, the crew van is an enhancement to the 2020 Ford Transit family based on customer feedback.
A more capable Transit
Because work doesn’t stop when the weather gets bad, Transit offers an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that’s always on to provide enhanced traction on icy, snowy or muddy roads.
“We integrated Transit’s new all-wheel-drive system into the vehicle design early on to ensure it does not raise the load floor or seat height, making this van configuration as easy to enter and exit as the standard rear-wheel-drive model,” said Ray Eyles, Ford Transit chief program engineer. “This is a significant benefit for commercial drivers who are in and out of their vehicles dozens of times a day, as well as for shuttle bus passengers and families.”
In normal mode, this all-wheel-drive system continuously monitors and optimizes torque output with the capability of sending up to 100 percent of available torque to the front wheels to help prevent slipping on loose surfaces. Using the vehicle’s selectable drive modes, the driver can engage mud and ruts or slippery modes at any speed to help increase the all-wheel-drive system’s capability for traveling in challenging conditions. All-wheel drive is available with gasoline powertrains.
With 2020 Transit chassis cab and cutaway models, customers can also carry more, as the maximum GVWR increases from 10,360 pounds to 11,000 pounds.
New and improved powertrains are designed to meet a wide range of customer needs including advances in fuel efficiency. The all-new 3.5-liter PFDi V6 is the new standard gasoline engine. It features port fuel and direct injection for improved efficiency versus the outgoing 3.7-liter engine. An available all-new 2.0-liter EcoBlue® bi-turbo I4 diesel engine is more fuel-efficient and offers more power and torque than the outgoing 3.2-liter diesel engine. It is equipped with Auto Start-Stop and is quieter than its predecessor. Customers can also choose the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost® gas engine, which now includes Auto Start-Stop Technology, as well. Both gas engines can be ordered with dual 250-amp alternators to provide a robust power supply for upfit equipment.
All engines are paired with Ford’s proven 10-speed automatic transmission, which offers a wide span of gear ratios, off-the-line performance and low engine speeds while highway cruising – all designed to contribute to improved fuel efficiency for model year 2020.
Nicely equipped, Transit is easy to drive
Ford adds new driver-assist features to an already well-equipped van to create the smartest Transit ever. These features can decrease the likelihood of an accident and improve uptime.
New driver-assist features standard on every 2020 Transit cargo van, crew van, passenger van, cutaway and chassis cab include Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking and Pedestrian Detection, forward collision warning, post-collision braking, Lane-Keeping System and auto high-beam headlamps.
Transit passenger van XLT is equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™, which includes the features listed above plus Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage and cross-traffic alert. A new side sensing system joins the existing reverse sensing system as standard on XLT.
Available enhanced active park assist can simplify maneuvering into parallel or reverse perpendicular parking spots. With the touch of a button, it provides prompts to the driver to manage gear selection, accelerator and braking, while Transit automatically steers itself into place. Enhanced active park assist includes park-out assist, which automatically steers the van out of a space while the driver controls the gear shifter, accelerator and brakes, making for less stress.
Other new driver-assist features available include adaptive cruise control, front and rear split-view camera and adjustable speed limiting device.
Smart and connected Transit is incredibly useful and fun
The ability to stay in touch comes standard with the new Transit with an embedded FordPass Connect™ modem with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and connectivity for up to 10 devices – fun for families and incredibly useful for commercial customers who use their van as mobile office or workshop. USB outlets in every row of the passenger van can even mitigate family squabbles.
Fleets can further enhance efficiency by choosing available new Ford Telematics™ and Ford Data Services™, which put an array of tools at the disposal of fleet managers. Fleet managers can optimize their business with easy-to-use features like detailed live map GPS tracking with order-to-delivery status, geofencing with alerts and key performance indicators. Fuel waste reporting helps identify ways to save costs, while Ford Telematics suggests coaching opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce waste and reveal concerns like seatbelt use or speed compliance. Managers can receive proactive maintenance notifications and vehicle health alerts, enabling them to schedule service, plan ahead and maximize uptime.
Other technology updates include a center stack that can be optioned two different ways – either with a standard 4-inch full-color multifunction display or 8-inch slim-line touch screen display, each with the latest in SYNC® 3 plus Android Auto™ or Apple CarPlay™ compatibility. A 4.2-inch productivity screen in the cluster provides vehicle information and phone call status. AppLink for SYNC allows customers to control select apps on the touch screen without plugging in their Android or iOS device.
Form follows function
Exterior updates for Transit are subtle but functionally driven. A new power sliding door is available for cargo van and passenger van to make getting loaded up as well as exiting the vehicle easier. Premium high-intensity discharge headlamps with signature LED surround are available. Three grilles will adorn different models in van, chassis cab and cutaway configurations – a three-bar design with black or chrome bars and an open mesh design for maximum cooling. Vans equipped with the powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine get a larger grille for maximum cooling.
Transit has a new interior with a modern dashboard and features designed to improve comfort and practicality, such as durable new fabrics on the seating surfaces, plus myriad cupholders and compartments for storing gear and gadgets. Grab handles are improved, vents are updated to better direct heated and cooled air, and overall ergonomics are enhanced to make using everything a bit easier. Optional swivel front seats are available for the first time in response to recreational vehicle customer requests.
The upgraded 2020 Ford Transit will ship this fall to Ford’s nationwide network of 3,000 dealers, including more than 675 dedicated Commercial Vehicle Center locations.

  • Two new engines, a new transmission, and All-Wheel drive

Drew Dowdell

Arteon On Its Way to U.S.... Finally.

The delayed launch of the Volkswagen Arteon may be nearing its end. MotorTrend is reporting that the Chairman of Volkswagen has said that the Arteon will hit U.S. shores this year. 
The original cause of the delay was a backlog of certifying vehicles under the World Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).  The Arteon in the U.S. will use a 268 hp 2.0 liter Turbo from Audi that had yet to be certified.  VW sells the Arteon in Europe using a different engine.
The Arteon debuted at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show and is priced above the Passat in the Volkswagen lineup. 
Related:
 

  • Likely to appear this summer after more than a year delay.

Drew Dowdell

Nissan and BMW Could Pull Production from UK

A few weeks after Honda announced the closure of its manufacturing plant in Swindon, Sky News is reporting that BMW and Nissan are both looking at moving operations out of the UK in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
BMW currently produces the Mini-Cooper in Oxford.  BMW's Peter Schwarzenbauer has said that the company would "need to consider" moving production out of the UK. In addition to Mini production, some engine production would move to Austria from Birmingham.
Likewise Nissan, which produces the Qashqai and Leaf in Sunderland would cut back production and potential plant reductions of about 400 jobs.  Nissan has already announced that due to Brexit uncertainty, the manufacturer would not be producing the Nissan X-Trail in Sunderland. Sunderland is the largest automotive manufacturing plant in the UK.

  • A no-deal Brexit may kill automotive jobs in the UK.

Drew Dowdell

Geneva 2019: Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept

Mitsubishi has unveiled its oddly named Engelberg Tourer Concept.  Named for a Swiss ski resort known for its rugged terrain, the Engelberg Tourer is an agressive and sporty looking crossover that could preview the look of the next generation Mitsubishi Outlander. (Because the first thing you think of when you hear about a Swiss ski resort is a Japanese SUV - DD)
The Engelberg is yet another PHEV Crossover, in this case using an improved version of the twin-motor PHEV system used in the Outlander PHEV.  The engine is a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder designed specifically for hybrid use.  The system works in a series hybrid mode where the engine acts as a generator to power the front and rear electric motors and is able to propel the SUV just over 40 miles in EV mode on the European test cycle. With a full battery and fuel tank, the Engelberg can cruise over 430 miles, again on the European test cycle.
Inside, Mitsubishi has fitted the Engelberg with a minimalist yet luxury looking white and black interior.

The navigation system can take into account the destination, weather, temperature, road conditions, and traffic to modify the drive mode and torque split to optimize battery and fuel usage.
Mitsubishi will also be selling a home battery and charging system that allows the Engelberg to dynamically charge or discharge power from the user's home.
Related:
Quick First Drive: 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Quick First Drive: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
 

  • A possible preview of the next Mitsubishi Outlander

Drew Dowdell

Geneva 2019: Subaru Viziv Adrenaline Concept

What you're looking at here is a preview of the next generation Subaru Crosstrek. Unveiled at the Geneva International Auto Show today, the Subaru Viziv Adrenaline concept is a more distinct take on what the Crosstrek could look like.  Subaru has increased the amount of body cladding, made the lines sharper, added LED accent lighting, and 6-dot fog lights front and rear.  The wheels have white highlights on the rim.
The company says the concept shows Subaru's new "BOLDER" design theme. 
The Crosstrek was recently refreshed for the 2018 model year and a Plug-in Hybrid Crosstrek was introduced at the 2018 LA Auto Show, so it may be a few years before we see the styling updated to this new look.


  • A preview look at the next Subaru CrossTrek

Drew Dowdell

Geneva 2019: Mercedes-Benz EQV Concept

Mercedes-Benz unveiled the EQV Concept at the Geneva International Auto Show today.  The concept features a 100 kWh battery that enables the van to travel up to 249 miles (400 km) on a single charge.  Rapid charging functionality enables 62 miles of range in just 15 minutes.
The concept utilizes a front drivetrain with 201 hp electric motor.  The motor, transmission, cooling system and power electronics come together in a compact integral unit.  The battery is placed under the load floor and takes up no room in the passenger compartment.
While this is a concept, Mercedes says that a production version of this van will come to market. No word yet on when that will be, though the word "soon" was used.




 
 
Related:
Geneva 2019: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC gets a refresh
Mercedes Benz Introduces the New AMG GLE 53
Curtains for the Mercedes-Benz SLC
 

  • A concept electric van with a 249 mile range.

Drew Dowdell

Geneva 2019: Alfa Romeo Tonale Concept

Alfa Romeo pulled the wraps off their Tonale concept today at the Geneva International Auto Show.  The concept hints at the direction the brand would like to take with a possible crossover slotted below the Stelvio in size. 
The concept features some retro design cues with the deep set Alfa Romeo grille and thin horizontal headlight cluster. There is a slight wraparound in the rear glass and some thin, full-width tail lamps. The interior features a 12.3" diagonal gauge cluster and a 10.25 inch infotainment screen.  
Technical specs are limited at this point, but Alfa Romeo does say that the concept would be a plug-in hybrid.  The concept utilizes a rear electric motor to maximize handling performance and includes multiple modes to vary the experience from sporty to maximum efficiency.
The brand plans on launching 6 PHEVS by the end of 2022. 
Related: Review: 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti
FCA Press Release on Page 2
The New Alfa Romeo Tonale Concept Vehicle: Electrification Meets Beauty And Dynamism
 
First Alfa Romeo plug-in hybrid premium compact SUV makes its debut at 2019 Geneva International Motor Show Distinctive features of Italian style are projected into the future, striking the perfect blend of valued heritage and anticipation of a new evolution for Alfa Romeo In keeping with Alfa Romeo’s DNA, every detail is designed according to the driver's needs Tonale premium compact SUV concept is Alfa Romeo’s take on electrification: state-of-the-art technology and enticing driving dynamics March 5, 2019 , Turin, Italy - Alfa Romeo is breaking into the electric vehicle world at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show, revealing the new concept of the Alfa Romeo Tonale premium compact SUV. The Tonale is the first plug-in hybrid and the first premium compact SUV for Alfa Romeo. It rewrites the rules of today's fastest growing segment using the brand’s trademark language made up of gorgeous Italian design and unparalleled driving dynamics.

A Premium Compact SUV Inspired By Beauty And Alfa Romeo’s Design DNA
The design of the Tonale is an expression that looks fondly into our future. Its compact dimensions embody unique Italian design and the unmistakable original and modern style typical of Alfa Romeo, striking the perfect blend of valued heritage and anticipation of a new evolution. Alfa Romeo holds dear the essence of Italian art and sculpture through the timeless “artigianale” experience of hand sculpting. 

The Tonale is inspired by the beauty and nuances associated with human forms, and the organic movement of light resulted by pure lines and volumes. Its design tangibly recalls a number of time-honored style elements that are synonymous with the rich history of Alfa Romeo, with an execution that excites a modern approach to the new Alfa Romeo anatomy. 

An element that echoes the tradition of Alfa Romeo’s DNA is the phone dial wheel. The Tonale’s 21-inch wheel design displays this through a lightweight architectural construction, creating an honest and impactful execution of the circular theme. The lineage of the phone dial wheel dates back to the 1960s, worn proudly on the iconic 33 Stradale. The distinctive Tonale wheel design is also celebrated harmoniously with an exclusive Pirelli tire scheme.

The bold, elegant volumes of the body side make reference to a seemingly distant past, recalling the sensual qualities found in the pure forms of the Duetto and the Disco Volante Spider, while the Tonale’s “Linea GT” interprets the tension and confidence of the pouncing stance found on the beloved GT Junior. The front end sports Alfa Romeo’s signature “Trilobo” and the distinctive “Scudetto” grille that serves as the central point of strength, driving the speed and fluidity that moves throughout the Tonale. Flanking the iconic “Scudetto” and completing the front monographic is the “3 plus 3” forward lighting that evokes the proud gaze reflective of the SZ and Brera. The rear of the Tonale is elegantly defined by an enveloping window volume, complemented on top by the suspended wing that enhances the continuity between the transparent roof and the rear window itself. As every Alfa Romeo design is cared for through the human touch, the rear lighting is reminiscent of an artistic signature, rather than an optical lighting element … a sort of luminous signature born directly from the artist’s hand.  

With the inspiration of Alfa Romeo’s racing history at the core, the Tonale interior design conjures the passion associated with providing a spirited drive through dynamic form and pure sculpture. The interior of the Tonale is very driver oriented and the overall layout is designed comfortably for four passengers. The hand-drawn gestural lines stretch throughout the environment to create a muscular tension, as if what surrounds you is ready to lunge forward. The emotional significance of the Tonale interior is also generated by the contrast of rich materials, such as the cold solidity of aluminum combined with the soft and welcoming warmth of the leather and Alcantara. Inside there are translucent backlit panels, such as the central tunnel, providing the perfect location for the essential Alfa Romeo element, the DNA drive mode selector. The Tonale interior provides an inclusive experience, with details typically reserved for the exclusive. The interior is immersive and welcoming, with the dynamic attributes appreciated by those who love to drive.

The Tonale concept vehicle is equipped with the highest levels of technology to ensure a connected, comfortable and dynamic user experience, while keeping the pleasure of a sporty drive at the forefront.

The driver's attention will be on the road, with the peripheral focus on a 12.3-inch full digital cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen central head unit. The new infotainment features a seamless and fluid multitasking interface that allows the driver to have all the latest features and functionality readily available at their fingertips. The Tonale allows the driver to be fully connected to the Alfa Romeo Lifestyle and Social communities, realized and presented through the new infotainment features, “Alfista” and “Paddock”.
  "Alfista” is an immersive Alfa Romeo Lifestyle experience, providing a fully connected interface with select Alfa Romeo clubs and community events, such as gatherings, drives and meets. This in-vehicle app allows the driver access to live news and updates about the current happenings of the Alfa Romeo brand. The customer has the ability to confirm attendance to events and gatherings, order Alfa Romeo Racing tickets, as well as apply for opportunities to win VIP access to special Alfa Romeo sponsored events, just to name a few. “Paddock” is the Alfa Romeo Tonale in-vehicle garage and market for real-time viewing and purchasing of the latest interior and exterior performance upgrades and equipment. The Paddock app also enables the customer to scroll through the latest offerings of Alfa Romeo Merchandise and Apparel, which can be ordered direct with the touch of the screen.
The Alfa Romeo Tonale is our look into the future of the premium compact SUV segment, creating a holistic creative expression and through the blend of beauty and technology. For Alfa Romeo Design, it is our “opera d’arte,” or piece of art … otherwise expressed as our Alfa Romeo Tonale.

Authentically Alfa Romeo
The Tonale marks the debut of the brand in the premium compact utility vehicle segment and does so in line with the characteristics that have always identified each Alfa Romeo model. The goal is to deliver the best driving dynamics in the segment and to apply electrification in perfect Alfa Romeo style. 

It is the natural evolution of the brand on the way toward propulsive synergy capable of enhancing performance and driving dynamics. Rather than simply adapting to new standards, with the Tonale concept car Alfa Romeo is reinterpreting its own DNA to capture the new idea of beauty, energy, harmony, efficiency and driving user-friendliness. 

The electrification of Alfa Romeo comes at the service of sportiness and emphasizes the famous "Mechanics of Emotions" mission of the brand. For this reason, it has no need to express itself through signatures or decided livery, but just with small details such as the Alfa logo, or “Biscione” in hybrid optics, a small yet definitive detail that enhances the Tonale. The rear electric engine opens the way to new technological solutions that offer driving dynamics, maximizes the drive and the pleasure of sporty driving. The evolution is also evident in the drive modes managed by Alfa D.N.A. From the beginning on the 4C and through the development with Giulia and Stelvio, it has reached the Tonale and now implements specific energy management functions.
  "Dynamic" mode evolves into "Dual Power" mode and guarantees maximum output from the two engines "Natural" mode continues to maintain the best performance optimization, and the compromise between using electric and internal combustion engines is managed automatically. This translates into everyday energy and fuel savings, but not at the detriment of performance The “Advance Efficiency” mode becomes “Advance E” for performance in full electric mode. So, in line with the principles of the brand, the plug-in hybrid propulsion enhances the beauty, sporty and dynamic driving characteristics of each Alfa Romeo model, taking them to a new level. In Tonale, electrification embraces performance and represents a new way to achieve high performance and outstanding driving fun The infotainment touch screen features an “E-mozione” button, which offers specific throttle settings, sharper braking and a more direct steering response
Alfa Romeo Tonale
The Tonale embodies the adventure potential of a premium compact, dynamic sport utility vehicle capable of guaranteeing the adrenaline of sporty driving inherent in the legend of the brand, in urban settings with the same ease. The hum of the electric motor accompanies the genuinely Alfa Romeo roar creating an efficient, exciting synergy at the service of driving pleasure. The energy switch to electric is the latest key page in the 109-year-long history of the Alfa Romeo legend and one which will propel the brand into the future. 

This is also behind the name chosen for the new concept car. The Tonale Pass, not far from the Stelvio Pass in the Alps, is a large natural amphitheater famous for its majestic peaks, the natural spectacle of frothy waterfalls and snow all year round in a breath-taking natural setting. Directly connected to the Stelvio Pass, excitement and harmony coexist in the Tonale Pass area. The Tonale is an important development under the sign of continuity and geographical proximity, an evolution traced in time in an evocative association.
 
About Alfa Romeo
Since its foundation in Milan, Italy, in 1910, Alfa Romeo has designed and crafted some of the most stylish and exclusive cars in automotive history. That tradition lives on today as Alfa Romeo continues to take a unique and innovative approach to designing automobiles. Born from the world’s greatest driving road – the Stelvio Pass – the Alfa Romeo Stelvio sets a new benchmark in performance, style and technology in an SUV that could only be from Italy. The award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulia delivers race-inspired performance, advanced technologies, seductive Italian style and an exhilarating driving experience to the premium mid-size sedan segment. Crafted by Alfa Romeo artisans at the Cassino plant in Italy, the Giulia Quadrifoglio and the Stelvio Quadrifoglio feature Alfa Romeo’s most powerful production engine ever with best-in-class 0-60 mph times of 3.8 and 3.6 seconds, respectively. Rounding out Alfa Romeo’s world-class lineup is the handcrafted Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, which represents the purest form of La meccanica delle emozioni (the mechanics of emotion), with its race-inspired, mid-engine design and state-of-the-art, Formula 1-inspired carbon fiber monocoque chassis.  

  • A possible future crossover below the Stelvio

Drew Dowdell

Geneva 2019: Jeep Shows Compass and Renegade Plug-In Hybrids

Jeep unveiled plug-in hybrid versions of its popular Compass and Renegade crossovers at the Geneva International Auto Show today. 
The Plug-In Hybrid variants are powered by a 1.3 liter turbocharged engine. In base form, the 1.3T makes 177 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. On the Renegade, power ranges between 190 hp and 240 hp range while the Compass gets 240 hp through the combined effort of the gasoline engine and electric motors. Zero to 62 mph takes around 7 seconds.
The hybrids use eAWD technology where the rear wheels are not powered by a driveshaft, but instead from a rear mounted electric motor. This allows the front and rear wheels to be operated independently in a more effective way than a fixed mechanical system.  Greater low-speed torque is made available through the electric motors improving response on challenging terrain.
The size of the battery pack was not released, but the hybrids can travel up to 31 miles or hit a top speed of 81 mph in electric only mode. Naturally, driving 81 mph will shorten the EV range. 
Both models will feature a special instrument cluster and infotainment screen geared towards monitoring the hybrid system. 
No word from FCA yet as to when we will see the Compass PHEV and Renegade PHEV in the US. 
FCA announced a plant expansion in Michigan last week that included plans for Plug-in Hybrid Grand Cherokees, Wagoneers and Grand Wagoneers. 
FCA Press Release on Page 2


The Jeep® E-volution Showcased in Geneva
Preview of the new Jeep® Renegade and Jeep Compass with plug-in hybrid electric technology New PHEV technology enhances the Jeep off-road performance taking advantage of the high torque control during take-off The combined action of the two propulsion systems delivers up to 240 hp Both Jeep SUVs feature batteries which can be recharged by the internal combustion engine or by the plug-in charging cable The evolution of the Jeep brand in Europe continues and stays true to its core values of freedom, authenticity, adventure and passion March 5, 2019 , Geneva - The Jeep® brand continues to surprise audiences at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show.
 
After setting a new global sales record in 2018, the Jeep brand welcomes 2019 as the year of an evolution that remains true to those core values that have been at the heart of the brand for almost 80 years. The Jeep brand has always pioneered new segments and new technologies: its legend started in 1941 with the Willys-Overland, the first 4x4 vehicle, followed in 1946 by the Willys Wagon, which first introduced the concept of the Sport Utility Vehicle. Its legendary reputation for off-road capability has lasted ever since. Comfort, handling and connectivity have been increased over time, in parallel with the all-terrain performance of Jeep SUVs. Today, the Jeep brand is making another major evolutionary step toward respecting the environment and reducing the total cost of ownership by presenting its new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) models. A no-compromise hybrid solution, which integrates the unmatched technical layout of each Jeep SUV, will power both the Jeep Renegade and Jeep Compass and will turn them into vehicles that provide absolute freedom while taking their capability to the next level through some of the most advanced eco-friendly technology.
 
New Renegade and Compass PHEV: Power and Range
In the spotlight at the Jeep stand in Geneva, these new plug-in hybrid models are equipped with batteries that are rechargeable from an external power outlet and, as a consequence, can store more electric energy. This choice allows for the use of more powerful electric motors, which translate into a pure electric range of approximately 50 kilometers and about 130 km/h full electric top speed for both Renegade and Compass.
 
The electric units work in synergy with the new 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine to increase efficiency and power overall. For the Renegade, the power sits in the 190 and 240 hp range resulting in outstanding on-road performance: 0-100 km/h is reached in approximately 7 seconds. The same figures – although still pending homologation – are achieved by the first plug-in hybrid Compass. Also, on the Compass, the simultaneous action of the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor delivers up to 240 hp of maximum power.
 
In addition, the new Jeep SUVs with plug-in hybrid technology are more fun to drive courtesy of improved acceleration and fast engine response. They are also extremely quiet and respectful of the environment with CO2 emissions lower than 50 g/km.
 
But above all, thanks to electrification, the Jeep range further improves its legendary off-road capability, courtesy of the greater torque offered by the electric motor and the ability to adjust it with extreme precision during take-off and while driving on the most challenging terrain, where a very low transmission ratio is needed.
 
Thanks to the new electric all-wheel-drive technology (eAWD), traction to the rear axle is not provided by a prop shaft but through a dedicated electric motor. This allows the two axles to be separated and to control the torque independently in a more effective way than a mechanical system.
 
Renegade and Compass PHEVs feature a dedicated instrument cluster and infotainment screen, updated in order to help the customer with information related to daily hybrid driving.
 
While being loyal to its mindset of overcoming any limit, the Jeep brand continues to evolve, to develop and to bring its SUVs to the next level in line with its core values of freedom, authenticity and passion. Today the brand is embracing a new challenge and setting new standards. Behind the wheel of Jeep Renegade and Jeep Compass featuring PHEV technology, driving fun becomes efficient and, for the first time, it will be possible to tackle the most extreme off-road trails not only in the utmost safety but also while listening to the sounds of nature.

  • Part of the coming Jeep E-volution.

Drew Dowdell

Geneva 2019: Kia introduced the Imagine by Kia concept

Kia fully unveiled their all-electric concept car at the Geneva International Auto Show today.  
Kia's design team exploited the flexibility of an electric chassis architecture to maximize cabin space to create a spacious interior.  They drew together elements of a muscular SUV, a sleek sedan, and a spacious crossover into a single vehicle that purposely does not fit into any one classification. 
The concept pokes a bit of fun at the industry's current obsession with screens by creating gauge cluster made of 21 individual high-resolution screen curved over the dashboard.

The Imagine by Kia is not destined for production, however, design elements from the vehicle show the direction Kia may take on its future cars and SUVs.

 

  • Answers concerns about range and performance while also being dynamic to drive.

Drew Dowdell

Geneva 2019: Mazda Unveils the CX-30 Crossover

Previous Page Next Page At the 2019 Geneva Auto Show this afternoon, Mazda introduced the new CX-30 compact crossover to the world. The CX-30 is the second vehicle, after the Mazda 3, in Mazda's new-generation of vehicles. 
Mazda has aimed to make the CX30, "not too big and not too small", aiming to be the perfect size for most drivers. The Mazda CX-30 slots in just above the CX-3 in size, running about 4.7 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider.  Ground clearance is higher at 6.8 inches. That's higher than the CX-3, but still below the CX-5. The CX-30 rides on the same platform as the Mazda 3.
The European spec models will have a choice of three engines. A 2.0 liter Skyactiv-G engine has cylinder deactivation and can shut down two of the cylinders during light load situations.  A 1.8 liter diesel Skyactiv-D carries over from the Mazda CX-3.  Lastly, a Skyactive-X engine will offer a supercharged version of the 2.0 engine with Mazda's compression ignition technology that promises diesel-like fuel economy with the responsiveness of a gasoline engine.  Power specs were not released. Both of the gasoline models will come with Mazda's M Hybrid 24-volt mild hybrid system.  Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions will be available. We assume the U.S. will not see the diesel engines.  Mazda's i-Activ all-wheel drive system which features G-Vectoring technology is available. 

The interior is designed to be a peaceful, serene place.  Mazda's quest against noise continues in this model and the interior will have a "high quality quietness".   The interior has a premium look, again like the Mazda 3. 
The exterior is a subtly handsome interpretation of Mazda's Kodo design language, looking a bit more restrained than the CX-3 or CX-5. 

Mazda says that the U.S. will see this model, but no announcements on when it will be sold here have been made. 
Mazda Press Release on Page 2
 
2019 GENEVA AUTO SHOW PRESS INFORMATION – MAZDA CX-30
PROGRAM MANAGER’S MESSAGE
MAZDA CX-30: BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS
Mazda wants drivers – and their passengers – to truly enjoy the many ways in which owning a car can enrich your lifestyle. We designed the Mazda CX-30 to help customers make stimulating new discoveries within their daily routine and share them with the people they love. This new compact crossover is the second model in a new generation of Mazda cars that offer refined quality in every area.
Our desire was to enable customers at various stages of life to choose a car that matches their sensibilities and thus invigorate their daily lives and help them develop stronger bonds with their loved ones. As people transition from one life stage to the next, what they need in a car changes as their family grows and their lifestyle evolves. Choosing a car that is the right fit for you can be a real challenge. That’s why we set out to develop a compact crossover that, while meeting a wide variety of needs, could broaden people’s horizons and help turn their run-of-the-mill daily routines into self-directed, creative lifestyles.
In particular, we were determined to offer four things with the CX-30. It had to be a just-fit size for any kind of driver so you can take it wherever you want to go without hesitation. The design had to embody the joy of owning something that matches your sensibilities. The cabin had to be spacious enough to share good times with family and friends. And finally, vehicle performance had to be excellent, offering comfort and peace of mind so drivers and passengers can relax and enjoy the ride.
To enhance maneuverability, we settled on a size that works on any road and in any parking lot and a turning circle that allows the car to turn on a dime, all while maintaining the looks and presence of a true crossover and an excellent field of view. Driving is stress-free even on congested city streets. Getting in and out is a breeze and, thanks to a generouscargo space and trunk opening, loading your bags is just as easy. The user-friendly CX-30 is the perfect size for multipurpose use, allowing you to throw your gear in the back, jump in and take off without a second thought.
Embodying Mazda’s Kodo design theme, the exterior design captivates onlookers, while powerful and elegant styling means you will never tire of gazing at its curves. The highlight of the side view is the distinctive reflections that slide over the undulating body surface. Reflected in this way, even one’s everyday surroundings look beautiful, helping owners to feel creative and positive.
Inside, we rigorously pursued the highest quality so that customers can spend time with their loved ones in comfort. The cabin has a premium feel and a design that seems to envelop occupants. It’s spacious enough to comfortably seat four adults, and we incorporated a number of measures designed to help passengers kick back and relax. The quiet cabin makes conversation a joy and the clarity and quality of the new audio system, with its optimized speaker layout, are reminiscent of a sound room. We hope you will enjoy spending time with your loved ones in this cozy space.
The CX-30’s excellent driving attributes and advanced safety equipment offer peace of mind, allowing the driver and passengers to relax and enjoy the drive. The driving position, seats, visibility and outstanding operability, together with dynamicperformance that’s centered on the new Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture and tuned to match human sensibilities, combine to offer a natural and confidence-inspiring driving feel and a sense of unityas if the car and driver are operating in synchronicity. Just in case, updated i-Activsense features are there to back up the driver at all times. The powertrain lineup consists of our latest Skyactiv-X, Skyactiv-G andSkyactiv-D engines, which enable responsive control of speed in any driving situation. Skyactiv-G 2.0 and Skyactiv-X will come mated with M Hybrid, our compact and efficient mild hybrid system, for enhanced acceleration performance and real-world fuel economy. In addition, our all-wheel-drive system, which already achieved excellent dynamic and environmental performance, now works cooperatively with G-Vectoring Control to inspire confidence in any road conditions.The full package delivers peace of mind that allows everyone on board to relax and enjoy the ride and high-quality driving pleasure that keeps drivers endlessly engaged behind the wheel.
We hope that the CX-30 will help customers discover new things in their surroundings, rediscover the delights of their daily commute and enjoy more in-car conversations. Nothing could please us more than knowing that the CX-30 has helped to make the lives of our customers, their families and their friends more wonderful.
Naohito Saga
Mazda CX-30 Program Manager
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF DESIGNER
THE PROMISE: DAILY LIFE WITH A WORK OF ART
Mazda CX-30 is more than an entirely new entrant in the rapidly growing compact crossover SUV category…it’s a bold new statement of what such cars should be. As the second model in Mazda’s new-generation product lineup to feature the further-matured Kodo — Soul of Motion design concept, a concept rooted in traditional Japanese esthetics, CX-30 was developed in pursuit of automotive styling as a work of art. To achieve the most alluring, sleek silhouette in this market segment, the designers and engineers worked together as a single team to realize an unprecedented vehicle that uncompromisingly satisfies the generally contradictory demands for roominess, ample cargo space, and truly beautiful proportions. I am confident that its flowing form and refined interior will strike the eye as a singularly beautiful work of art.
Beyond that, my desire is for this beauty to stimulate our customers’ creative sensibilities, encouraging them to exercise more creativity in their own lives. Far from being art that is appreciated only on occasion, CX-30 promises to enrich the life of all who choose it by bringing a work of art to the everyday.
Ryo Yanagisawa
Mazda CX-30 Chief Designer

SLEEK & BOLD: NEW STYLING CONCEPT REALIZED THROUGH THE MATURING KODO DESIGN LANGUAGE
Since its introduction in 2010, Mazda’s Kodo — Soul of Motion design has been a driving force in enhancing the brand’s global value, and Mazda has now made this philosophy deeper and more sophisticated to raise car design to the level of fine art. The goal for this evolution of Kodo design is to express a new form of elegance inspired by and rooted in Japanese esthetics. The Mazda Vision Coupe concept model introduced in 2017 embodied this design language through finely honed, minimalist styling: its elegantly restrained body form generated a delicate play of light and reflections that change over time to create styling with a natural, dynamic feel.
Sharing the same concept, CX-30 was developed to create an entirely new design for a compact crossover SUV. Based on the ‘Sleek & Bold’ design concept, its proportions combine the toughness of an SUV with a supple, flowing beauty that transcends the category. Body surfaces provide rich, unlimited impressions that change from moment to moment. And the highly refined cabin is marked by the fusion of a comfortably snug feel and an airy, spacious atmosphere, enabling all occupants to enjoy a feeling of connection as well as relaxing comfort. Every single aspect of the design enhances CX-30’s impressive personality, stimulating customers’ sensibilities each and every time they look at or touch the car.

EXTERIOR DESIGN
With ‘Sleek & Bold’ as its design concept, CX-30’s styling simultaneously realizes two contradictory elements: the flowing beauty of a coupe and the bold toughness of an SUV.
The lower body features arresting black cladding to create the sleekly flowing proportions of a coupe. At the same time, the cladding provides an impression of stability and power worthy of an SUV. Styling is controlled by a new design language ‘Charge and Release.’ This language was derived from the brushwork used in Japanese calligraphy and developed to integrate the three key factors of the evolved Kodo design theme, namely Yohaku, the beauty of empty space; Soricurves with poise and balance; and Utsuroi, the play of light and shade. In particular, Soriis clearly embodied in the arc of the shoulder running from the front fender to the rear wheel, giving a sense of speed and vitality. Body surfaces beneath the shoulder line reflect the surroundings in an S shape that changes as the car moves, in a fascinating statement of Utsuroi. These expressions of body form finally come together in a single undulation at the rear where they diffuse. By eschewing character lines in favor of the movement of surfaces, CX-30 achieves styling with both the beauty of a work of art and a powerful sense of dynamism. Rear fenders stand proud from the inward-tapering rear cabin and the liftgate has a correspondingly narrowed arch shape. In combination, this creates an alluring and sensuously powerful rear end with a wide, dynamic stance like a sports car. Front styling conveys a refined, yet bold personality. Mazda’s signature wing takes on a sharper and deeper form that combines with the solid, sculpted contours of the front bumper to achieve a face strongly suggestive of forward motion. The size and pattern of the radiator grille’s triangular motif are tightly controlled to show rich variations according to the viewing angle and how light falls upon it. Headlamps and rear combination lamps are both elegantly sleek and supremely functional, featuring an LED arrangement that emphasizes the lamps’ elaborate cylindrical shape to point up their artistic beauty while delivering a distinctive mechanical impression. The LED turn signals have a new, distinctive light-up pattern that starts at full power and then gradually ramps down, giving a powerful impression of a pulsating, living creature. Nine body colors are offered, including Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, and Polymetal Gray developed for the new Mazda3.
INTERIOR DESIGN
Design of CX-30’s cabin is based on Mazda’s human-centered design philosophy and traditional Japanese architecture with its use of Maor empty space.
The basic structure revolves around two areas with contrasting characteristics: a snug and condensed cockpit area for the driver, and a clean, airy open space around the front passenger. In accordance with the ‘Sleek & Bold’ overall design concept, CX-30’s interior achieves both flowing elegance and beauty, allied with the bold, do-everything attitude of an SUV. In addition, great attention was paid to every detail from choice of materials to improved fit and finish, to create a genuinely refined, top-quality interior space.
The cockpit is symmetrical and firmly centered on the driver, with all three meters in the meter cluster and the center display correctly angled towards the driving position, giving the driver an enhanced sense of unity with the vehicle and even easier operation. A secondary, wing-shaped hood is fitted to the upper area of the dashboard. Running horizontally from the top of the meter hood to the end of the door trim on the passenger side, it generates an airy atmosphere that gives the cockpit an expansive feel, as well as adding to the front passenger’s feeling of relaxation, comfort and security. Stitching on the edge of the hood is one more expression of CX-30’s refined interior quality. The wide floor console groups the shift lever, cup holders and commander control forward in a ‘control area’ close to the driver for convenient operation, while the gently curved knee rests and arm rest behind create a warm, contrasting atmosphere. The shift panel has an evolved version of Mazda’s ‘two-layer molding’ technology originally developed for the new Mazda3. Light striking the deep smoke-gray panel reveals a metallic pattern engraved in the base layer to accentuate CX-30’s atmosphere of fine detailing and advanced character. Two distinctive interior color schemes are offered to match owner lifestyles and preferences. The option with Dark Brown accents accords with chic, mature tastes; the Dark Blue-accented variation appeals to a modern, intellectual sensibility.
The Dark Brown scheme is available in Black or Pure White genuine leather, and the perforations in the Black leather upholstery option reveal a brown interior liner to further enhance the refined atmosphere.
The Dark Blue scheme features fabric or leatherette upholstery, both offered in Greige or Black.
INNOVATIVELY DESIGNED PACKAGING DELIVERS RICHER, MORE ENJOYABLE LIFE EXPERIENCES.
Based on the human-centered development philosophy, Mazda aimed to endow the CX-30 with enhanced versatility as a compact crossover SUV. The packaging achieves a cabin that accommodates all passengers in relaxed comfort even on the longest drives, while the luggage space offers enhanced practicality and generous capacity to satisfy virtually all lifestyle requirements. The driver’s environment is further evolved through the adoption of the most advanced knowledge and technologies during research and development of the driving position and Human-Machine Interface (HMI). In short, every element of the packaging is designed and engineered to support an even wider range of lifestyles and provide CX-30 customers with a rich and rewarding experience.

EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
The CX-30 boasts a spacious cabin and a generous luggage compartment that combine with its excellent maneuverability in urban environments and ease of entrance and exit to make it versatile and easy to use. There is generous distance between the front seats, allowing for a spacious console layout and a generous center armrest. Rear-seats are also spacious and feature a wide center armrest and door armrests that enable a comfortable, relaxing seating posture. There is plenty of legroom for rear-seat passengers and a low floor and high ceiling make the rear seats comfortable even for taller passengers. A spacious cabin and generous distances between seats make it easy for people in the front to turn and face people in the rear. At the same time, rear occupants can easily see front occupants’ faces in profile. The result is an interior space that encourages communication between all occupants. Comparison of dimensions (European specification models)
  CX-30 CX-3 CX-5 Overall length 4,395mm 4,275mm 4,545mm Overall width 1,795mm 1,765mm 1,840mm Overall height at roof panel 1,540mm 1,540mm 1,690mm Wheelbase 2,655mm 2,570mm 2,700mm Front overhang 915mm 910mm 945mm Rear overhang 825mm 795mm 900mm Minimum ground clearance 175mm 160mm 210mm Note: All values for CX-30 are tentative.
LUGGAGE SPACE
A generous luggage compartment with a large opening is easy to use in any situation. Luggage capacity is a generous 430 liters*, enough to simultaneously accommodate a large, global-standard baby buggy and a carry-on bag. The liftgate opening is 1,020mm wide, while the height of the lip is a relatively low 731mm, making it easier to load and unload heavy or bulky cargo. *Includes sub-trunk; measured in-house by Mazda
Note: All values are for European specification models and may vary by market.
The luggage compartment offers a clean, refined appearance with a spacious feel, thanks to the adoption of non-woven fabric on the side trim and a simple wall structure. A power liftgate allows one-touch opening and closing. The gears and housing of its damper unit are made of resin, realizing quiet operation. ENTRY AND EXIT
The model features plenty of ground clearance and a hip-point height that makes it easy to get into and out of the car. The shape of the seat cushions and B-pillars were optimized in light of how people move during entry and exit to enable even heavily built rear passengers to get in and out in a smooth fashion. DRIVING POSITION
Telescopic steering offers 70mm of travel for precise control over the driving position. In addition, front seat cushion tilt adjustment is included as standard equipment to help prevent the occupant’s thighs floating above the cushion (seat angle too low) or placing undue pressure on the thighs (seat angle too high). As such, it offers firm support that keeps the pelvis in an upright position to maintain the ideal seating posture Mazda aims for. The position of the gear shift lever, commander control and cupholders on the floor console is optimized for operating stability, ease and comfort. HUMAN-MACHINE INTERFACE (HMI)
The Active Driving Display, meters and center display were all redesigned to present information in a simple fashion, while the fonts used were unified to create a pleasing and consistent look. CX-30 adopts an 8.8-inch wide-screen center display. Offering simplified operation that requires only the use of the commander control, it also features a new intuitive guidance system that makes the commander control easier to operate. VISIBILITY AND FIELD OF VIEW
The driver’s seating position is set high to provide a clear field of view and let the driver focus on the road ahead. Thickness and shape of the A-pillar were optimized to minimize its obstruction angle and associated blind spots. Every detail of the pillar shape was carefully thought out after research into what degree of neck and eye movement would not burden the driver. As a result, the design significantly reduces blind spots ahead of the car, providing the driver with a continuous view of pedestrians or potential obstacles to the right or left while maintaining a natural driving posture. The C-pillar is small, providing good rearward visibility through the quarter window, offering easy confirmation of other vehicles or objects to the rear when changing lanes or entering a parking lot. The control system for windshield wiper operating speed was carefully engineered to both improve overall wiper performance and constantly adjust the operating angle of the wipers in fine increments, allowing cleaning right up to the A-pillar to greatly expand visibility near the A-pillar on the driver’s side. The wipers are housed beneath the hood to help provide a clear downward view out of the windshield. In addition, the washer nozzles are attached to the wiper arms so their spray can be wiped away immediately after application and not interfere with visibility. These measures combine to give the driver a clearer view and to quickly maintain clear visibility in wet weather. AUDIO SYSTEM
Mazda carried out comprehensive new studies into how sounds are transmitted through a car’s cabin. This led to locating the bass speakers in the corners where low frequency sound is better reproduced, resulting in a more clearly audible lower register. Midrange and high-frequency speakers were positioned on the left and right sail garnish and upper sections of the door trim where the sound is transmitted directly towards the occupant’s ears, unmuddied by reflected sounds. This more powerfully and naturally locates the sound’s origin, enhancing both depth and clarity. The standard audio system features a 3-way, 8-speaker configuration with 3L woofers mounted at the sides of the cowl, 2.5cm tweeters on the left and right sail garnishes and 8cm squawkers on the upper section of the front and rear door trim. The 12-speaker Bose® system includes an 8cm center speaker, a pair of rear satellite speakers and a subwoofer. The system is custom tuned to provide more powerful bass and the enhanced audio quality expected of the Bose® brand.
EFFORTLESS JOYFUL DRIVING:
MAZDA’S JINBA-ITTAI PERFORMANCE EVOLVED YET FURTHER TO DELIVER MORE FREEDOM AND MORE DRIVING PLEASURE
‘Ultimate Jinba-ittai’ — the feeling that the vehicle is an extension of the driver’s body, precisely controlled without conscious thought — is Mazda’s goal. And to achieve it, Mazda has introduced Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, a set of new-generation structural technologies. Adoption of these technologies, the latest fruits of Mazda’s further evolved human-centric development concept, allows CX-30 to open up a fresh dimension of driving pleasure.
In addition, the latest Skyactiv engine lineup including the newly developed Skyactiv-X delivers exhilarating performance, while the precisely coordinated control of i-Activ AWD and G-Vectoring Control (GVC) provides a pleasant and confidence-inspiring driving experience, along with enhanced fuel economy and environmental friendliness. Furthermore, the cabin achieves high quality quietness through painstakingly developed NVH performance based on thoroughgoing studies of human sensory characteristics. CX-30 offers the driver the utmost freedom to control the car at will, and at the same time provides all occupants a pleasant and comfortable ride.
POWERTRAIN
The latest Skyactiv-G 2.0 gasoline engine delivers enhanced driving performance, fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness. It adopts a cylinder deactivation system that shuts down cylinders 1 and 4 in light-load situations such as constant-speed cruising. This contributes to greatly reduced pumping loss and lowered mechanical resistance. The Skyactiv-D 1.8 diesel engine is retained in the powertrain lineup. It provides smooth yet robust performance combined with a fine balance of fuel economy, quietness andlow emissions. The new Skyactiv-X engine features Mazda’s innovative Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) combustion to bring compression ignition to a gasoline engine. As a result, it features both the superior initial response and powerful torque of diesel engines, as well as the linear response to even sudden driver inputs and the smooth revving up to the higher rpms typical of a gasoline engine. The Skyactiv-G 2.0 and Skyactiv-X engines are equipped with Mazda’s M Hybrid system for both greater gains in fuel economy, and higher levels of driving pleasure and real-world environmental friendliness. I-ACTIV AWD
Thanks to a newly developed control system and new technologies to reduce friction, i-Activ AWD delivers a refined and stable ride in any situation and real-world fuel economy almost as good as a front-wheel drive vehicle. In advancing the dynamic performance of the CX-30, the team worked to always preserve grip in all four tires regardless of the road surface conditions. In addition to always being ready to handle rain, snow or other slippery conditions, it preserves extra amounts of solid grip at all times, which contributes to smooth accelerating, breaking or cornering on dry roads. The balance of grip between front and rear tires is constantly controlled to maintain smooth, stable AWD driving at all times. Furthermore, Mazda’s advanced i-Activ AWD works in harmony with G-Vectoring Control (GVC) to control the distribution of torque between front and rear wheels in accordance with the driver’s steering and acceleration inputs and the grip condition of all wheels in order to deliver a faithful response with that little bit of extra vehicle control to spare, regardless of the driving scene. To enhance real-world fuel economy, the new system adopts a rubber damper inside the power take-off unit, which greatly reduces fluctuations in input torque sent to the rear-wheel drive unit. A new design for the rear differential stores oil in the upper part and supplies just the necessary amount where and when required. In addition to the adoption of ball bearings and the use of low-viscosity oil, this design further reduces mechanical loss. A new setting applies slight difference in the deceleration ratio between the power take-off and rear differential. Not only does this maintain the same response in torque distribution, but it also increases the precision of the AWD-control unit, with a significant reduction in overall mechanical loss. G-VECTORING CONTROL PLUS (GVC PLUS)
Aswith the all-new Mazda3, CX-30 adopts G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus). In addition to the smooth and efficient vehicle behavior delivered by G-Vectoring Control (GVC), GVC Plus adds direct yaw moment control via the brakes, which contributes to enhanced stability of vehicle posture. When cornering, GVC Plus lightly applies brake force to the outer wheels as the steering wheel is returned to the center position. This provides a recovery moment that restores the vehicle to straight-line running and achieves greater stability. As a result, the car better handles emergency avoidance maneuvers and offers more confidence-inspiring control in various situations, including lane changes at high speed and driving on slippery surfaces such as snowy roads. NEW-GENERATION STRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGIES: SKYACTIV-VEHICLE ARCHITECTURE
The seats adopt a basic structure designed to maintain the natural S-shaped curve of the spine. The seat cushion and lower seatback support the thighs, lower pelvis and upper pelvis to keep the pelvis in an upright position. Meanwhile, the upper seatback supports the rib cage’s center of gravity. This design enables the driver to stabilize his or her head in a natural fashion by shifting the pelvis and spine to maintain balance without any conscious effort. The body further evolves Mazda’s straight framework and continuous ring structure concept. New front-to-back connections complement the existing vertical and lateral connections of the previous body to form multi-directional ring structures. This increases rigidity while reducing lag in the transmission of energy, which helps maximize the function of the dampers and tires. By concentrating energy input from the road surface in specifically chosen locations and adopting a damping structure that helps absorb it, vibration that causes noise is reduced without increasing vehicle weight. The suspension system (MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam setup at the rear) is based on the concept of smoothing the transmission of forces to the sprung mass over time. A new spherical shape adopted for the internal structure of the bushings combines with new suspension geometry to realize lag-free transmission and linear action. EXCELLENT NVH PERFORMANCE
As a result of Mazda’s human research studies, development focused on three characteristics of sound that directly impact cabin occupants. These are volume, changes in pitch and tone over time, and the direction from which sounds originate. Suppressing noise generation and reducing its volume, while also controlling the fluctuations and directionality of sounds, are all aimed at going beyond a ‘quiet’ cabin environment to instead create a ‘high-quality quietness’ that is satisfying to all cabin occupants. To improve the basic insulation qualities key to reducing NVH, CX-30 adopts a “two-wall” structure with space between the body and the carpeting. Considering the carpet and the body panel as two separate walls, and then designing them to match the characteristics of the carpet fibers improves sound insulation without increasing weight. The number of holes in the carpeting was also reduced wherever possible to significantly enhance sound insulation. Measures to deal with road noise focused on minimizing noise and vibration, and on controlling noise generated by changes in the road surface so it reaches occupants’ ears in a linear fashion. Sound-absorption added to the headliner and floor mats effectively suppresses high-frequency noise, while tires with optimized vertical yield and increased rigidity at possible entry points help prevent the transmission of unwanted vibrations to the cabin. Lag-free transmission of permissible sounds and vibrations helps create a reassuring and comfortable cabin environment.
OUTSTANDING SAFETY PERFORMANCE BUILT ON THE MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES TO HELP REALIZE AN ACCIDENT-FREE AUTOMOTIVE SOCIETY
The Mazda Proactive Safety philosophy guides all the company’s research and development efforts in safety performance, driving advances in every area from safety fundamentals, such as the driving position, through passive safety technologies to advanced i-Activsense features.　CX-30 is equipped with numerous safety technologies born from these research endeavors.
In the area of active safety, CX-30’s i-Activsense features now include a Driver Monitoring system that observes the driver’s condition, while further evolved technologies to help prevent accidents through advanced brake control enhance the omnidirectional sensing capability Mazda is pursuing. Passive safety development focused on studies of human characteristics and details of actual accidents, contributing to greatly enhanced collision safety and pedestrian protection performance. Now, CX-30 delivers a further evolved capacity to provide all occupants a safe, secure and enjoyable driving experience, helping to realize an accident-free automotive society.
ACTIVE SAFETY: I-ACTIVSENSE
CX-30 is available with Mazda’s Driver Monitoring system. The system uses both an infrared camera and infrared LED to observe the driver’s condition while driving by monitoring how wide the driver’s eyes are open at any given time, the number of times he or she blinks, and also the angle of the mouth and face in order to determine the level of drowsiness or fatigue. It also monitors the driver’s line of sight and eye movement to determine when the driver is being inattentive. If the system judges that the situation has become dangerous, it sounds an alert to make the driver aware and works in conjunction with the Smart Brake Support (SBS) system to shorten the time required for the brake warning to sound. Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) is available on CX-30. When pulling forward, the system uses newly adopted front side radars to detect other vehicles approaching from blind spots at the front right or left of the vehicle and alert the driver to their presence. This helps prevent a common cause of accidentswhen cars enter a T intersection with a partially obscured view. Also available on CX-30 is Mazda’s Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS) system. CTS contributes to lower driver fatigue by assisting with accelerator, brake pedal andsteering operations when stuck in traffic jams on the highway. It also supports a safer, more reassuring and more comfortable driving experience in conditions that demand constant operation of the assisted functions. Note: Some markets use a different naming.
PASSIVE SAFETY
The vehicle body includes more high-strength steel than ever before. As with the all-new Mazda3, 1,310 MPa-class steel is used in places and steel rated 980 MPa or higher now accounts for approximately 30 percent of the body. This combines with the addition of a new perimeter beam, newly designed B-pillars that deliver both high strength and light weight, and rear side frames that. deform in an accordion-style pattern to create a strong body that can withstand impact force and a frame structure that effectively absorbs energy. CX-30 introduces a knee airbag for the driver’s seat as standard equipment worldwide. By suppressing forward motion of the driver’s body in the event of a collision, this new airbag helps lessen injuries to the driver’s legs, chest and The hood adopts a new energy-absorbing inner structure designed to receive the impact of a pedestrian’s head in the initial moment of contact and then gradually dampen the force to more stably absorb the impact energy. The front bumper is designed to support the thigh and shins if contact is made with a pedestrian’s legswhile softening the blow to the knee area. This reduces the degree of injury to the knees and ligaments due to bending and twisting. EUROPEAN SPECIFICATION
Body type Station wagon Seating capacity 5 persons Overall length x width x height 4,395mm x 1,795mm x 1,540mm Wheelbase 2,655mm Engines SKYACTIV-G 2.0  
SKYACTIV-D 1.8
SKYACTIV-X
Transmissions 6-speed automatic transmission  
6-speed manual transmission
Front suspension MacPherson strut Rear suspension Torsion beam Steering type Rack-and-pinion Brakes (front/rear) Vented discs/solid discs Tires 215/65R16  
215/55R18
 
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  • A new addition to the Mazda family.

Drew Dowdell

Volvo Setting 112 MPH Speed Limit on All Cars in 2020

Volvo has announced that all 2020 Volvos will come with an electronically limited top speed of 180 kph or 112 mph.  The move is in pursuit of its Vision 2020 goal to have no fatalities or serious injuries in a new Volvo by 2020.  The company identified three remaining gaps in its plan, one of which being speeding. Volvo says that the problem with high speeds is that above a certain point, in-car safety technology is no longer sufficient to prevent serious injury.
The company is also investigating a smart speed control system that will use GPS and geofencing to limit top speed around schools and hospitals.
The two other gap areas Volvo has identified are intoxication and distracted driving.  Volvo will present ideas to tackle these problems at a special event on March 20th.
Volvo Press Release on Page 2


Volvo Cars to impose 180 kph speed limit on all cars to highlight dangers of speeding
Volvo Cars, as a worldwide leader in safety, is sending a strong signal about the dangers of speeding and will limit the top speed on all its cars to 180 kph from 2020.
 
The company’s Vision 2020, which aims for no one to be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by 2020, is one of the most ambitious safety visions in the automotive industry. But realising that technology alone will not get it all the way to zero, Volvo Cars is now broadening its scope to include a focus on driver behaviour.
 
Research by Volvo Cars has identified three remaining concerns for safety that constitute so-called ‘gaps’ in its ambition to completely end serious injuries and fatalities in its cars, with speeding a very prominent one.
 
“Volvo is a leader in safety: we always have been and we always will be,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive. "Because of our research we know where the problem areas are when it comes to ending serious injuries and fatalities in our cars. And while a speed limitation is not a cure-all, it’s worth doing if we can even save one life.”
 
Apart from limiting top speeds, the company is also investigating how a combination of smart speed control and geofencing technology could automatically limit speeds around schools and hospitals in future.
 
“We want to start a conversation about whether car makers have the right or maybe even an obligation to install technology in cars that changes their driver´s behaviour, to tackle things like speeding, intoxication or distraction,” said Mr. Samuelsson. “We don’t have a firm answer to this question, but believe we should take leadership in the discussion and be a pioneer.”
 
The problem with speeding is that above certain speeds, in-car safety technology and smart infrastructure design are no longer enough to avoid severe injuries and fatalities in the event of an accident. That is why speed limits are in place in most western countries, yet speeding remains ubiquitous and one of the most common reasons for fatalities in traffic.
 
Millions of people still get speeding tickets every year and traffic accident data from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration shows that 25 per cent of all traffic fatalities in the US in 2017 were caused by speeding.
 
People simply do not recognise the danger involved in speed, says Jan Ivarsson, one of Volvo Cars’ leading safety experts.
 
“As humans, we all understand the dangers with snakes, spiders and heights. With speeds, not so much,” said Mr Ivarsson. “People often drive too fast in a given traffic situation and have poor speed adaption in relation to that traffic situation and their own capabilities as a driver. We need to support better behaviour and help people realise and understand that speeding is dangerous.”
 
Beyond speeding, two other problem areas constitute ‘gaps toward zero’. As obvious a problem as speeding (and as difficult to end) is intoxication. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in large parts of the world, yet it remains a prime reason for injuries and fatalities on today’s roads.
 
The other area is distraction. Drivers distracted by their mobile phones or otherwise not fully engaged in driving are another major cause of traffic fatailities. In many ways, they are equally dangerous as drunk drivers.
 
Volvo Cars will present ideas to tackle the problem areas of intoxication and distraction at a special safety event in Gothenburg, Sweden on March 20.
 

  • Aiming to meet its "no fatalities" goal.

Drew Dowdell