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News

The latest Automotive News and Updates
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Chrysler CEO Says 2012 will be "another critical year"

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
January 3, 2011
2011 saw Chrysler rise up and build momentum and profits with models like the new Chrysler 300 and revised Jeep Wrangler.
However, Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is being cautious. In an email obtained by The Detroit News, Marchionne says 2012 will be another pivotal year.
"Over the past 12 months, we successfully changed the conversation from Chrysler's survival to products and service that consumers expect and want from a great American automaker. What's past is prologue. The stage is set for another critical year in our drive to transform Chrysler."
Marchionne said in the email that the progress Chrysler made in the past year proved the company is still viable.
"Just two years ago, during the (Detroit auto show), many journalists wrote stories predicting our imminent demise. They underestimated the energy, the capabilities and the composure under crisis that sustain the people who comprise the soul of Chrysler. Now, the tone of coverage has shifted, focusing on our comeback story and on what matters most, our products. We didn't get caught up in the press clippings before, and we can't afford to bask in them now. We understand that there is a great deal of work ahead of us. Our effort to create a viable global car company is still a work in progress, with most of the paint still on the palette."
Foremost in the Chrysler product introductions for 2012 will be the new Dodge Dart, which will play an important role in Chrysler's rebuilding efforts and give them a player in the small car class.
But, Marchionne cautioned employees that serious challenges lie ahead in 2012.
"As we begin 2012, uncertain global economic forces pose challenges to the entire industrial sector. And in a rapidly changing world, this year will inevitably bring other risks and opportunities not yet foreseeable. Let's remain open and flexible enough to continually rethink our response, while staying true to our values — a commitment to meritocracy and excellence, the search for and cherishing of change and most importantly, the clear acknowledgment that we are accountable for our choices."
"I am proud to be with you in the reconstruction of a great Chrysler," Marchionne said. "You have shown tremendous courage in taking responsibility for the fate of Chrysler in your own hands. Your sense of purpose and passion has restored pride and credibility in our company. You are the authors of a remarkable story in 2011, and I look forward to continuing our journey and writing an exciting new chapter in 2012."
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

Epcot GM Test Track to Get Refurbished, New Name

I am a huge Disney Parks fan - My favorite attraction to visit at Epcot in WDW happens to coincide with my passion for all things General Motors - the GM Test Track (formerly GM's World of Motion pavilion).
Mouseplanet's weekly WDW news update reports that the GM Test Track attraction is scheduled to be closed from April 15 through September 21, 2012 for an upgrade to include a name change -Test Track presented by Chevrolet:
…Our friends over at TouringPlans.com are reporting that Test Track may close from April 15 through September 21, 2012 to get an upgrade and to also change the official sponsor from General Motors in general to GM's Chevrolet brand in particular. It's likely that the changes to some of the attraction's vehicles are a preview of some of the new look. We'll have more once this closure is confirmed.
TouringPlans.com also reveals a possible logo change for the attraction, seen below.

The ride will feature new vehicles designed by GM's own research and development team rather than Disney's Imagineering unit who previously did the cars. Essentially, the ride will be gutted to the point where only the track path and vehicle chassis remain with a new ride built on the skeleton. The theme is going to be highly futuristic to mesh with the rest of Epcot .
So, what's your take on this news? Is it a good idea for GM to concentrate on only one of it's brands in such a widely seen place?
Source: Mouse Planet, TouringPlans.com, epcyclopedia.com
GMTruckGuy74

Detroit 2012: Lincoln To Show MKZ Concept

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
January 3, 2012
Alongside the new Ford Fusion, Lincoln will be showing off a thinly-disguised concept car version of its next-generation MKZ sedan at next week's Detroit Auto Show.
“This is the biggest statement Lincoln has ever made at an auto show. Our NAIAS display represents more than a vehicle debut. It represents the reinvention of Lincoln,” said Lincoln design director Max Wolff.
The MKZ marks the next step in Lincoln's revitalization plans. Last year Lincoln started to put the plan in motion by showing the refreshed MKS and MKT.
Not much is known about the new MKZ besides retaining the Fusion’s front-biased architecture. Lincoln says the next MKZ will be much more distinct than the previous model.
Source: Left Lane News
William Maley

Bentley Looks At Expanding Their Lineup

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
January 3, 2012
Seeing it's best sales since the 2008 global financial crisis, Bentley is hoping to continue it with the introduction of new models during the next few years. Bentley CEO Wolfgang Duerheimer told reporters today the company is deciding whether to build an SUV.
Rumor has it the proposed Bentley SUV will use a W12 engine, priced around $140,000, and come out sometime in 2014.
Duerheimer said the decision will come sometime in the first quarter.
But that's not all. Duerheimer also revealed the company is considering an extended wheelbase version of the Mulsanne and expanding the Continental lineup.
"I can well imagine a new two-seater coupe, a racing version and a car with a new roof system," said Duerheimer.
Source: Wall Street Journal (Subscription Required) via Motor Authority
William Maley

Rumorpile: Is The Next Fiat For The US This Crossover?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
January 2, 2011
If there is one thing Fiat needs in the US besides sales is another model. And if a report from Inside Line is to be believed, we could be seeing a new model next year.
Inside Line reports that Fiat is readying a new small crossover code-named Ellezero. Ellezero will be based on Fiat's SUSW (Small U.S. Wide) platform, which also will underpin a new compact Jeep crossover. Design will borrow from the 500 with it's rounded look. Power will come from the 1.4L engine found in the 500.
The new crossover will make it's debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Detroit 2012: Mopar Adds More Perfomance To Charger & 200

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
January 2, 2012
At next weeks Detroit Auto Show, Mopar will introduce two performance packages for the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 200.
First up is the 2012 Dodge Charger Redline which will be offered in the three stages. Stage 1 brings forth many dress-up items, including a carbon fiber front splitter, a three-piece carbon fiber decklid spoiler, a black vinyl roof graphic, a two-piece grille insert that blends a body-colored surround with a black crosshair insert, faux door scoops, and 20-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels. Inside, an aluminum instrument panel bezel with a red accent, a matching aluminum shifter bezel, and stainless steel pedals is added.
Stage 2 is where we begin to see some performance upgrades for the Redline; a cat-back exhaust system, a front strut tower cross brace, and high-performance brake pads.
Stage 3 is where the major performance comes in. The regular 5.7L HEMI V8 is swapped for Mopar's aluminum-block 426ci HEMI crate motor producing 590 HP. The downside is the the 590 HP engine is only for track use.
Then there's the Chrysler 200 Super S which will be offered in two stages. As is the case with the Charger Redline, Stage 1 for the Super S is cosmetic. Using the 200 S as a base, Stage 1 adds recessed mesh grill with a floating Chrysler logo, large chin spoiler, flared side sills, a matte black rear diffuser, satin chrome accents, rear decklid spoiler, and 10-spoke, 18-inch wheels painted either black or gray.
Stage 2 adds a cat-back exhaust system, lowered coil-over suspension, and a cold-air intake.
Pricing for the two packages hasn't been announced and are expected to come out sometime later this year.


Press Release is on Page 2

Mopar® Introduces Dodge Charger Redline Infused With New High Output 426 HEMI® Aluminum Crate Engine and More Aggressive Style


New 2012 Dodge Charger Redline features three available Mopar® stage kits for factory-tuned performance
Stage One features aerodynamic exterior components and interior accents
Stage Two features bolt-on performance parts for improved power, handling and braking
Stage Three features new high-output version of the powerful aluminum-block Gen III 426 HEMI® V-8 crate engine, delivers 590 horsepower
Dodge Charger Redline will debut at 2012 North American International Auto Show

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 2, 2012 - Delivering performance and an even more aggressive look, the 2012 Dodge Charger Redline is a 426 HEMI®-powered showcase of new Mopar® performance kits that will arrive later this year. The Dodge Charger Redline vehicle with all three Mopar performance stage kits will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
“Since the 1960s, the Mopar Brand has built a long history of adding power and performance to the Dodge Charger – and with the Redline, we Moparized the new Charger with modern-day performance and style while giving a nod to our storied past,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “With three kits, Mopar offers a tailored choice for every customer.”
Stage I: Aerodynamic Carbon Fiber Exterior Components and Interior Accents
Based on the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T model, Mopar’s list of Stage I modifications includes a full-width Mopar carbon fiber chin spoiler to give the Charger Redline a more aggressive appearance. Matching the Redline Tri-coat paint, the two-piece grille features a body-color painted-grille surround with black signature “crosshair” insert. Large 20 x 8-inch Mopar Black Envy Wheels feature a Pitch Black-painted wheel face with polished accents. Mopar carbon fiber door scoops highlight Dodge Charger Redline’s signature body-side scallops and include heritage “R/T” badging to pay homage to the historic 1970 Charger model. A three-piece Mopar carbon fiber rear spoiler adds additional down force and provides an even more dynamic look. Emphasizing Dodge Charger Redline’s fastback silhouette is Mopar’s vinyl roof graphic in matte black.
The Dodge Charger Redline’s cockpit design features premium materials and is further enhanced with a Mopar aluminum shift bezel and aluminum instrument panel bezel with Redline perimeter accent. For a more enthusiast-desired look, Mopar pedal covers are made from stainless steel and feature a rubberized pattern for improved traction.
Stage II: Mopar Bolt-on Performance Parts Deliver Improved Power, Handling and Braking
Designed and tested straight from the factory, the Dodge Charger Redline features Mopar’s Stage II performance kit to enhance its already world-class power, handling and braking.
Allowing the Dodge Charger Redline’s legendary HEMI® V-8 engine to perform at its optimal level, Mopar’s cat-back performance exhaust system delivers an increase in horsepower and a menacing “throaty” sound. Under the hood, a front-tower cross-brace and front tower brace caps provide increased structural stability for improved handling dynamics. For ultimate braking capabilty, high-performance Mopar brake linings are track tested and deliver fade-resistance during hard braking use.
Stage III: Mopar’s Gen III High Output 426 HEMI V-8 engine, with 590 Horsepower on Tap
Delivering 220 more horsepower than the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T, the Charger Redline features the new high-output version of the powerful and lightweight Gen III 426 HEMI V-8 crate engine (for race/off-road use only).
With its legendary 426 cubic-inch “Elephant Motor,” the Dodge Charger Redline delivers 590 horsepower via a lightweight aluminum V-8 engine block that shaves more than 100 lbs. from the traditional cast-iron crate version. The new Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine is professionally built and includes a stout, balanced lower reciprocating assembly that features a forged-steel crankshaft with six-bolt mains at 2, 3 and 4, and cross-bolted 4-bolt mains at 1 and 5. H-beam style rods are made from forged steel and coupled to forged 11:1 compression ratio aluminum pistons. Included is a revised windage tray to provide excellent oil dispersion and prevents oil aeration by the crankshaft.
The Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine’s valvetrain starts with a more aggressive roller camshaft with .639 intake and .628 exhaust lift and cylinder heads that feature the latest designs for exceptional flow characteristics. To help stabilize the valvetrain at high engine rpm, tie bars are available.
Mopar cast-aluminum valve covers and billet fuel rails are also included in the Dodge Charger Redline’s Stage III performance kit.

Chrysler Group LLC Introduces Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar


2012 Chrysler 200 sedan modified using Mopar parts and accessories
Stage One appearance package amplifies refined styling of Chrysler 200
Stage Two amplifies performance with coil-over suspension, cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust
Mopar package will be available on Chrysler 200S sedans in 2012

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 2, 2012 - Chrysler Group LLC’s Mopar brand set its sights on the 2012 Chrysler 200. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar is a rolling showcase for the latest Mopar exterior parts that will be available for the 200 sedan in 2012. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
“The Super S is Mopar’s interpretation of the Chrysler 200,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “The extensive list of high-quality Mopar parts enhances the performance and appearance of our Chrysler 200.”
For Stage One, Mopar’s long list of modifications starts at the front of the car with a large chin spoiler, satin chrome fog light trim, satin chrome grille surround and mesh in the upper and lower grilles. The upper grille is gloss black with a recessed Chrysler wing badge.
Body sides feature new side sills, satin chrome belt molding, black chrome “200” badges and gray or hyper black 18-inch “S” alloy wheels.
From the rear view, the new look is capped off by a new trunk lid spoiler, satin chrome light bar and a matte black lower diffuser with attached exhaust openings.
Stage Two adds performance with a coil-over suspension, which also lowers the center of gravity for the vehicle. In addition, Stage Two includes a cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust.
This Mopar package on the Chrysler 200 Super S will be available on Chrysler 200S later in 2012. Mopar’s Chrysler 200 Super S will be one many Mopar-modified vehicles that will debut during the 2012 auto show season.
William Maley

UAW To Refocus Their Efforts On Organizing Plants In The South

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 30, 2011
The UAW isn't giving up on their effort to organize plants in the south, rather they're changing their main focus. Originally, the UAW was going to target Japanese automakers. However, the UAW is now going after the German automakers.
Reuters report that the UAW believes given Germany’s history of dealing with its strong IG Metall union, executives at the German automakers would be more to let UAW reps to talk workers.
Given the UAW's track record with trying to unionize transplants have failed miserably, this latest attempt seems to be a hail Mary. The UAW has seen it's membership drop more than 75 percent over the last three decades.
Source: Reuters
Related:
UAW Drops Plan To Organize A Foreign Automaker Plant
William Maley

Ford Brand crests 2 Million - First since 2007

Continuing its role as the come-back king, the Ford brand has surpassed 2 million vehicle sales for 2011, a first for the brand since 2007, making it the best selling automotive brand name in the US. The increase isn't attributable to just one vehicle segment; Ford has increased sales across their entire lineup. Small car sales are up over 20% this year. The Ford Escape has taken the title of America's best selling utility vehicle. The already best selling truck, the Ford F-150, bolstered by its new V6 and V8 engine lineup, has increased sales nearly 10%.
Press Release is on page 2
Ford Brand Sales Top 2 Million for 1st Time Since 2007
DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 30, 2011 – U.S. sales of the Ford brand this week topped 2 million vehicles for the first time since 2007. The milestone makes Ford the best selling brand in America and the first automotive brand to hit the 2 million mark since 2007.
“Ford’s lineup of high-quality, fuel-efficient cars, utilities and trucks continues to attract more and more new customers,” said Erich Merkle, Ford’s sales analysis manager. “With gasoline prices tracking higher than last year, customers continue to move toward smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, whether they are passenger cars or utilities.”
Both the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus achieve 40 mpg highway, while the Ford Explorer brings a class leading 28 mpg highway with its new EcoBoost engine.
Ford’s smallest utility, the fuel-efficient Escape, has achieved record sales volumes this year and is America’s best selling utility vehicle.
Overall, Ford brand small cars are on pace to post an increase of more than 20 percent this year. Ford brand utilities are tracking to post more than a 30 percent gain.
Most Ford products deliver best-in-class fuel economy and provide customers with the opportunity to choose what best works for them – from EcoBoost-powered gasoline vehicles to hybrids, plug-in hybrids and electrified vehicles. In fact, with the company’s new electrified vehicle introductions, nearly one-third of Ford’s vehicle lines in the U.S. will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012 – a claim no other full-line automaker can match.
Drew Dowdell

GM Puts An APB Out On Missing Sonic Brake Pads

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 30, 2011
Today, General Motors issued a recall for 4,873 Chevrolet Sonics due to missing front brake pads. The Sonics in question were built between June 2 and November 21 at GM's Orion Township plant. GM says that out of the 4,873 Sonics, only 20 to 30 have no brake pads.
Having no brake pads on your car doesn't mean you can't stop, it means the braking performance will suffer and could cause damage to other parts of the braking system.
GM says they will notify all potentially affected Sonic owners and install any missing pads and, if necessary, replace any calipers or rotors free of charge.
Source: NHTSA
William Maley

Saab's Bankruptcy Attracts Mahindra & Mahindra

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 30, 2011
Saab's bankruptcy is attracting a lot of companies wanting to buy up pieces of the Swedish automaker. Last week, we reported that Youngman Automotive got their hands on Saab's new Phoenix platform. Now, an Indian automaker wants a piece of the griffin.
Bloomberg reports that Mahindra & Mahindra, an Indian SUV manufacturer, is looking into buying up pieces of Saab. Two people familiar with the situation say the company is trying to set up meetings with the two court-appointed administrators who are overseeing Saab’s bankruptcy.
Neither Mahindra & Mahindra or the two court-appointed administrators could be reached for comment.
Source: Bloomberg
William Maley

China Withdrawing Support For Foreign Investments Next Year

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 29, 2011
2012 is bring forth some significant changes for automakers that were planning to invest in China. The National Development and Reform Commission (NRDC) and the Ministry of Commerce announced that January 30, 2012, the country will stop encouraging foreign investment in the auto industry. The NRDC states the decision was made to help nurture their domestic brands.
Jenny Gu, a senior market analyst at LMC Automotive in Shanghai tells Bloomberg the decision will end seven years of foreign-investor benefits including reduced tariffs on imported plant equipment.
Recently, China has slapped new duties on U.S.-made cars that are imported into the country.
“It might be more difficult for carmakers to get approval for new plants in the future unless they have an investment in new-energy vehicles,” Gu said.
China isn't cutting all foreign investments. In NRDC's press statement, it says the government will "open more sectors to foreign investors and encourage investment into energy-saving and environmentally-friendly technologies, new-generation information technology, biotechnology, high-end equipment manufacturing, alternative energy, advanced materials, and alternative-fuel cars."
Source: Bloomberg
William Maley

Rumorpile: Ford Introducing A GT500 Convertible At Detroit?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 29, 2011
Ford wowed crowds at November's LA Auto Show with their 650 HP Shelby GT500 coupe. Now, Ford could be readying a second act with the Shelby GT500.
Topspeed reports Ford could show a Shelby GT500 Convertible at next month's Detroit Auto Show. The convertible will use the 5.8L supercharged V8 found in the coupe producing 650 HP. The convertible will not hit the same 200 MPH top speed as the coupe.
We'll see if this pans out.
Source: TopSpeed
William Maley

Spying: BMW i8

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 29, 2011
BMW is serious with their upcoming i lineup with the i3 and i8 due out in 2014. The i series will utilize BMW’s LifeDrive architecture, which essentially is a composite body/passenger cell mated to a powertrain unit (or units).
BMW is busy doing testing on both models to get them ready and an i8 was recently caught by a spy photographer.
Designwise, the i8 mule stays true to the concept except for the doors. The pictures show the mule dropping the long glass doors for carbon fiber for better protection in crashes. The front end reveals that i8 will come with active aerodynamics; shutters in upper and/or lower grilles to help control airflow.
Other design cues on this mule include the roofline separating from the vehicle and then coming back at the rear end and cooling ducts for the gas engine.
Speaking of the gas engine, the i8 will use a three-cylinder combined with a electric motor. A long, lithium-polymer battery pack residing in what would normally be the transmission tunnel completes the powertrain.
Source: Car & Driver
William Maley

Are You The Acura NSX?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 29, 2011
In a couple weeks time, Acura will reveal the NSX concept at Detroit Auto Show. Auto Express has gotten some images of what the car could actually look like.
The pictures show the NSX sharing many things to a Acura concept car featured in new The Avengers movie. Sources inside Acura say the company will offer both a coupe and convertible version.
Power will come from Acura's 3.5L V6
driving one axle and a pair of in-wheel electric motors driving the other axle. This gives the NSX 400 HP and power going to all four wheels. 0-60 time will be under 5 seconds.

Source:
Auto Express
William Maley

BMW & Mercedes-Benz Duke It Out For Best Selling Luxury Brand

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 28, 2011
For the past decade, the best selling luxury brand has been Lexus. However, 2011 has been a fall of grace for Lexus and caused them to relinquish their top selling crowd. Now, Mercedes-Benz and BMW are fighting to see who becomes the top seller.
At last tally, BMW holds a slight edge of Mercedes, selling 1,582 more vehicles than Mercedes in November. Now, entering the final month of 2012, both are going all out on incentives.
TrueCar.com says BMW and Mercedes-Benz are offering approximately $4,800 USD in discounts by way of subsidizing interest rates (as low as 0.9 percent), waiving lease payments for the initial months, increasing the residual value of vehicles when the lease expires, and other incentives.
Source: CarScoop
William Maley

A Honda Owner Takes The Company To Court, Minus The Lawyers

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersamdGears.com
December 28, 2011
Heather Peters is angry with Honda. Her 2006 Civic Hybrid doesn't get its claimed EPA fuel economy and she isn't satisfied with a proposed class-action lawsuit settlement that would give lawyers $8.5 million while Civic owners would get as little as $100 and rebate coupons for the purchase of a new vehicle.
She could take Honda to court. But with Honda's army of lawyers, she wouldn't have a chance.
But, Peters has found a way to get a chance and keep Honda's lawyers out of the proceedings. On January 3 she'll take her case to Small Claims Court in Torrance, California and ask for the maximum compensation ($10,000) to compensate her for spending much more on gasoline than expected.
You might be wondering why going to Small Claims Court helps Peters avoids the army of lawyers. Well, California Small Claims Court law states parties must represent themselves and cannot use an attorney. That means Peters can deal with Honda directly.
Peters isn't stopping here though. She has started a website called DontSettleWithHonda.org and an Twitter account, DontSettleWithHonda giving owners a link to state-by-state instructions for filing these lawsuits.
"I want them to know they can file in Small Claims Court and that it is not so scary," Peters told the LA Times.
Some people are calling Peters’ plan a game-changer, not only for the automotive industry but for all large corporations in the U.S.
“This could create a lot of problems in the industry,” said Aaron Jacoby, a defense attorney at the Arent Fox law firm in Los Angeles who also heads the automotive industry group.
Not every state affords the same luxury as California's Small Claims Courts. But the efforts by Peters could prove costly and troublesome to automakers it it succeeds.
Source: LA Times
William Maley

Rumormill/Spying: Is This Ford S-Max Foretelling A Return Of Vans to US?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 28, 2011
Left Lane News posted spyshots of a couple Ford S-Max prototypes running around in Dearborn yesterday. The vehicles in the shots are the Ford Grand C-Max. However, an extended wheelbase and and a larger rear cargo area state this is an S-Max in drag.
Left Lane News speculates the next generation S-Max could making it’s way to our shores. Their reasoning; Ford nixed the idea offering the C-Max as a seven passenger model due to it not being a true seven seater (5+2 layout) and it not suiting to American tastes. The S-Max is a true seven seater and would suit American tastes.
At first, this seems a bit ridiculous. But a quick dig in the C&G news archive brings up a comment from Ford spokesman Mark Schirmer when asked if Ford was keeping the 7-seat C-Max on the back burner.
"we never close the door" completely on bringing over the C-Max.
If Ford was to offer a production S-Max, expect a range of gas and hybrid powertrains and for it to come out sometime within the next few years.
We’re not holding our breath on this.
Source: Left Lane News
William Maley

Spying: Mercedes-Benz G55/G65 AMG

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 28, 2011
The Mecedes-Benz G55 AMG, the official vehicle of OPEC, is getting a refresh. Spy shots of some lightly camouflaged prototypes undergoing testing in Europe were released yesterday.
The refreshed G55 AMG will get AMG's 5.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing around 525HP and 516 lb-ft of torque. It's unknown if the G55 will get the 7-Speed AMG SpeedShift MCT transmission.
There is also a rumored G-Wagen with a AMG tuned 6.0L bi-turbocharged V12 producing 612 HP and an eye-watering 737 lb-ft of torque.
Both vehicles will come with minor exterior changes including a restyled front bumper with extra air-vents, plus different wheel and exterior mirror cap designs. Inside, the G-Wagen will enter the new millennium with a new instrument cluster, dashboard, center console, and steering wheel.
Source: CarScoop
William Maley

Congress Allows Corn Ethanol Subsidy to Expire

Drew Dowdell - CheersandGears.com
After 30 years, the ever increasing subsidy for ethanol produced from corn has expired. When Congress adjourned for the year last week, they did not renew the ethanol subsidy that has cost taxpayers some $45 billion during its lifetime. Every gallon of ethanol pumped provided corn growers with a 45 cent subsidy. Most of the savings from ending the subsidy to go towards reducing the US's budget deficit.
At the same time, a 54 cent per gallon tariff on ethanol imported from Brazil also expired. Brazil is twice as productive per acre of farm land by using sugar cane rather than corn. The expiration of the Brazilian ethanol tariff is unlikely to cause a rush of imported fuel as sugar prices in that country have spiked recently.
Earlier this year Congress blocked EPA approval of E15 gasoline for use in all vehicles from 2001 and newer. E15 is a blend of 85% petroleum gasoline and 15% ethanol. Automakers unanimously protested the use of E15 in engines not designed for ethanol saying that the effect of the fuel on older engines could not be predicted. They did not want to be blamed for any engine failures caused by the new fuel.
The ending of the subsidy clashes with a 2007 Congressional mandate that requires 15 billion gallons of bio-fuel be used in 2015 moving up to 36 billion gallons in 2022.
Source: GreenCarReports, Detroit News
Drew Dowdell

Chrysler Shows A Plusher Side Of The 300

Chrysler is moving on up with their new 300 by offering a new Luxury Series trim level that brings forth more plushness and luxury.
The outside of the 300 Luxury Series differs from other 300s with a unique platinum-chrome finish applied to the mesh grille in addition to the door handles, mirror caps and other various trim pieces. Nineteen or twenty-inch wheels complete the look.
Inside, the seats, dashboard, door panels and center console are wrapped in Poltrona Frau “Foligno” leather upholstery. The steering wheel is also wrapped in the same upholstery and is featured with metal paddle shifters and a unique chrome accent ring. The floor is lined with 18-ounce Berber mats. Topping it all off is matte natural pore mocha wood trim.
Pricing for the 300 Luxury Series begins at $40,970 for the Pentastar V6 and $43,720 for the HEMI V8. Want AWD? That raises prices to $43,320 for the V6 and $46,070 the V8. (All prices include an $825 destination charge.)
Press Release is on Page 2


All-new Chrysler 300 Luxury Series Sedan: The Most Luxurious and Fuel-efficient Chrysler Flagship Ever


All-new 300 Luxury Series expands the 2012 Chrysler 300 lineup with more personality, style and efficiency
Exclusive Luxury Series appointments include ultra-premium leather, hand-sanded matte wood, world-class craftsmanship and refinement – all to deliver the most luxurious Chrysler sedan ever
Chrysler 300 is the first domestic luxury sedan to feature a state-of-the-art eight-speed automatic transmission
Best-in-class 31 highway miles per gallon (mpg) and best-in-class all-wheel-drive fuel economy with eight-speed automatic transmission and award-winning 292 horsepower, 3.6-liter aluminum Pentastar® V-6 engine
Chrysler 300 Luxury Series models start at $40,145 and arrive in the first-quarter of 2012

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Dec 27, 2011 - Designed to be the most luxurious and fuel-efficient Chrysler flagship sedan ever, the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series combines ultra-premium leather – once limited to some of the most exotic Italian luxury cars – with world-class refinement and handling, state-of-the-art safety and connectivity features and eight-speed automatic transmission with Pentastar® V-6 engine for 31 best-in-class highway mpg.
"The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Edition is more than just our flagship car, it's the trophy for the tireless majority, an automobile designed and built to meet the most discerning of expectations,” said Saad Chehab, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “It's fitted with a paddle shifting eight-speed transmission found only on cars twice its cost, dressed with the highest grade Italian Poltrona Frau leather and finished with hand sanded real wood found only in exotic cars – all to deliver a surprising combination of hyper craftsmanship, style, technology and ‘uber’ best-in-class fuel economy at 31 mpg.”
The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series expands the Chrysler flagship sedan lineup further with a fuel-efficient V-6 engine option, in addition to the top-of-the-range Chrysler 300C Luxury Series sedan with its powerful 363 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology.
World-class luxury with expressive styling details
The all-new Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series are the most highly appointed sedans the brand has ever offered.
Exclusive interior features found on the Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series sedans include either Black or Mochachino Poltrona Frau® “Foligno” leather-wrapped instrument panel, cluster brow, center console side panels and upper front- and rear-door panels. Premium Nappa leather covers the door armrest, bolster and center console armrest. Black or two-tone Mochachino seats are wrapped exclusively in supple Nappa leather and include 12-way power-adjustable driver and front-passenger seats (including four-way power lumbar) with two-mode ventilation and two-mode heated seats for both front and rear passengers. Black or two-tone Mochachino leather-wrapped steering wheel — with all-new die-cast paddle shifters — features a unique chrome accent ring to highlight the segment-exclusive 360-degree heated rim. Completing the interior environment is specially selected Natural Pore Mocha wood trim featuring a matte finish to enhance the beauty of the real wood.
On the exterior, large 20-inch polished face (rear-wheel drive (RWD) only, 19-inch with all-wheel drive (AWD) and painted pocket aluminum wheels, provide the 2012 Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series sedans with an even more planted and road-holding look. Platinum chrome fascia accents, exterior mirror caps and door handle accents provide an even more upscale look. Topping off the unique exterior is a platinum-chrome finished grille surround with platinum-chrome mesh grille for a truly distinctive appearance.
Premium amenities include the segment’s largest touchscreen infotainment system (8.4-inch) Uconnect® Touch 8.4N with Garmin® navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with driver-selectable color EVIC, power tilt and telescoping steering column with memory, power-adjustable pedals with memory, power backlight sunshade, premium 18-ounce Berber floor mats satin chrome lower door sills with “Chrysler” logo, dual heated/cooled cup holders, ambient lit foot well lighting, LED illuminated interior door handles and front and rear map pockets, premium carpeted trunk mat, HomeLink universal transceiver and power exterior mirrors with memory, driver mirror auto-dimming and auto-tilt in Reverse.
Available in RWD or with the segment’s most advanced AWD system, the 2012 Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series models arrive at Chrysler dealerships in the first-quarter of 2012. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (including $825 destination) of these Chrysler 300 models is:
Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (RWD) $40,145
Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (AWD) $42,495
Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (RWD) $42,895
Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (AWD) $45,245

Democratization of technology: segment-first eight-speed automatic transmission
Once available only on premium import vehicles costing twice as much, the 2012 Chrysler 300 is the first domestic luxury sedan to feature an eight-speed automatic transmission. This new segment-exclusive ZF 8HP45 eight-speed automatic transmission expands the world-class power and fuel-efficiency of the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series and delivers class-leading fuel efficiency with respect to:
Best-in-class highway fuel economy (31 highway mpg)
Best-in-class V-6 AWD fuel economy (18 city and 27 highway mpg)
Best-in-class combined fuel economy (23 with RWD, 21 with AWD)
Unsurpassed city fuel economy (19 city mpg RWD, 18 mpg AWD)
Overall unsurpassed fuel economy in its class (19 city and 31 highway mpg with RWD)

The addition of three more gear ratios in the proven ZF eight-speed automatic transmission design help to reduce the gaps normally associated with upshifting and downshifting. Combined with the award-winning 292 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, passengers will experience world-class levels of refinement due to small, evenly spaced ratios that provide quicker acceleration and smoother shifts.
Delivering up to a 17 percent fuel economy improvement compared with the previous generation six-cylinder Chrysler 300 AWD models, the new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series AWD combines the new eight-speed automatic transmission, fuel-efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and the segment’s most advanced AWD system for maximum all-weather traction and efficiency.
Chrysler 300’s AWD system (both V-6 and V-8 engines) features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system to improve real-world fuel economy. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Chrysler 300’s innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between RWD and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in RWD sedans.
William Maley

US Government Discontinuing Tax Deduction For EV Charging Stations

The US government is pulling back on some of their financial support for electric vehicles.
Coming this Saturday, a tax credit which allows taxpayers to deduct 30% of the cost an electric vehicle charger (good for up to $30,000 in commercial cases) will be discontinued.
If you're thinking the 30% deduction is a bit high, last year the deduction was set at 50%.
"The timing of this couldn't be more unfortunate," coming just as more electric cars are on the way." said Genevieve Cullen, vice president of the Electric Drive Transportation Association, a trade group for the electric-vehicle industry.
Cullen and other proponents have been begging congress to extend the tax deduction, possibly even retroactively if passed in early 2012.
Source: USA Today
William Maley

Mahindra Squashes Rumor Of Building Trucks In the US in2012

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 27, 2011
Mahindra, the company who promised to bring small diesel powered pickups to the US has been having their share of problems. Fallout between them and their importer, Global Vehicles USA and lawsuits from dealers have delayed the introduction.
A couple of weeks ago, Mahindra Planet, "The Unofficial Mahindra U.S. News Source," reported that Mahindra and Navistar, the international truck and bus builder had worked out a deal to build Mahindra trucks at a new plant in Alabama starting in 2012.
Mahindra and Navistar? Yes, the two companies have been working together since 1963 and have a joint operation in India.
The move would allow Mahindra to bypass an importer and get their trucks on the road.
However, Mahindra has said this week the rumor is false.
“There have been reports in certain quarters of media and online space stating that Navistar USA will produce Mahindra’s T20 and T40 pickups in Alabama, USA in 2012, which are completely baseless & incorrect. If and when there are any material developments, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited will communicate them directly and transparently.”
Mahindra didn't say when or if they would be arriving in the US.
Source: Mahindra Planet, Left Lane News
William Maley

21 Week Vacation Coming To GM's Truck Plants

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 26, 2011
With GM's next generation pickups just around the corner, GM is planning a 21 week vacation for their truck plants to update them.
GM spokesman Chris Lee told Automotive News the company will begin idling their Fort Wayne assembly plant for nine weeks from January to October. Following Fort Wayne will be Flint assembly which will be idled for seven weeks from June to November. GM’s Arlington assembly is scheduled to shut for five weeks from June to December.
GM's next generation pickups will arrive in 2013.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

A Christmas Present From Chrysler, Production Of The Caliber Ends

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 26, 2011
On Christmas Eve, Chrysler made the announcement that production of the Dodge Caliber has ended to make way for the new Dart.
Introduced back in 2006, the Caliber would replace the long running Neon. But the Caliber got a lot of negative press due to lack-luster driving dynamics and a cheap plastic interior.
The Caliber's replacement, Dart will makes it's first appearance at next month's Detroit Auto Show. Analysts believe the Dart will be more successful than the Caliber.
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

Rumorpile: Kia Sending GT Concept Into Production; Coupe & Wagon Follow

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 23, 2011
Kia's stunning GT concept, shown at this years Frankfurt Motor Show has been given the green light for production. But that's not all; sources inside Kia tell Inside Line that the company is mulling over a coupe and wagon.
But why is Kia sending the GT into production? Well a comment from Kia's Chief Designer, Peter Schreyer gives us a clue.
“Every company needs a halo car... The coupe market is dominated by German brands, and the GT is Kia’s first step. It’s like putting a foot in the door of the club.”
The GT would be presented as a less expensive alternative to the German counterparts, much like Kia's sister company, Hyundai does with their Genesis and Equus sedans.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Youngman Snatches Up Saab's Phoenix Platform

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 23, 2011
Earlier this week, we reported on which companies were going after Saab's assets, including Youngman Automotive and possibly Turkey. Well, one of Saab's biggest assets has been sold to Youngman.
Youngman said yesterday, they had purchased Saab’s “Phoenix” vehicle architecture. Phoenix was a homegrown architecture that would begin underpinning new Saab vehicle, beginning with the new 9-3. The architecture is said not have any relation to any GM based architecture.
Rachel Pang, a Youngman Spokesperson told Automotive News China that the firm has already gone through the motions of setting up a firm in Sweden to develop new cars on Phoenix.
Source: Automotive News China via Left Lane News
William Maley

LaHood Disagrees With NTSB Call For Mobile Electronics Ban

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 22, 2011
When the US Transportation Secretary, Ray LaHood thinks the NTSB’s recommendation of banning mobile electronics is a bad idea, you know it’s a bad idea. Speaking with the Detroit News, LaHood states he doesn’t supports the NTSB’s recommendation.
"The problem is not hands-free. That is not the big problem in America."
LaHood has been banging the drum on distracted driving in the U.S. for awhile, with him prodding states to crack down on distracted driving, especially texting or making calls behind the wheel. However, banning cell phone use in a car outright is going over the line.
However, LaHood did extend an olive branch to the NTSB stating,
Anybody that wants to join the chorus against distracted driving, welcome aboard. IIf other people want to work on hands-free, so be it."
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

2013 Lexus GS350 Starting At $46,900

Lexus announced pricing for the 2013 Lexus GS350 this week, with pricing starting at $46,900 and the AWD model beginning at $49,450.
For a quick refresh, the GS350 uses a 3.5L V6 producing 306 HP and achieves 19 City/28 Highway. Power goes through a six-speed automatic with four driving modes: ECO, Normal, Sport S and Sport S+ (only on F Sport model).
Lexus will offer two packages on the GS; Premium and Luxury. Premium will add $1,400 to the price and come with rain-sensing wipers, heated and ventilated front seats, and power rear sunshade. Luxury adds Adaptable Variable Suspension, Adaptive Front Lighting, unique high gloss linear espresso wood accents, semi-aniline leather, 18-way power front driver and passenger seats with articulated back, side bolster and thigh support controls, four-way lumbar, butterfly headrests, driver and passenger seat memory, rear HVAC and audio controls, rear manual side sunshades, 18-inch wheels and wood and leather steering wheel for $5,750.
For those who want a bit more sport in their new GS can step up to the F-Sport which gives you redesigned fascias, 19-inch wheels, larger brakes, perforated-leather interior, aluminum trim and pedals, and dynamic handling packing with variable-gear-ratio steering .
Navigation is a separate option for all models, carrying a $1,735 pricetag.
Lexus hasn’t announced pricing for the GS450h but say it’s coming.
Press Release is on Page 2

Lexus Announces Pricing for All-New 2013 GS 350


TORRANCE, Calif. (Dec. 21, 2011) – Lexus today announced a zero increase on the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the all-new 2013 GS 350, which will arrive at dealerships in early February with bold, dynamic styling, precise handling, innovative technology and a spacious interior.
“With all of the enhancements to the all-new GS, the base price remains the same at $46,900,” said Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. “We expect the GS will suit the needs of many drivers and compete well in the segment.”
The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875. Prices for the new GS 450h hybrid will be announced at a later date.
The new GS conveys an enhanced sense of confidence to the driver with a redesigned chassis and a wide, strong stance that inspires and rewards driver participation with crisp and precise handling. Engineers developed a more spacious interior environment while leaving exterior dimensions virtually unchanged to ensure excellent maneuverability. Richly endowed with world-class features and premium details, the new GS is supported by advanced, performance technology that makes it more than just a luxury car. The 2013 Lexus GS 350 is available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) with a base MSRP of $46,900 or all-wheel drive (AWD) with a base MSRP of $49,450. The configurations are available as F SPORT models or can be equipped with the available Premium or Luxury packages for greater personalization.
The new GS powertrains have been elevated for 2013 to provide better fuel economy and more responsive performance. The GS 350 is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V6, four cams, and four valves per cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). At 306 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful base engines in the segment, as well as the only one with both port and direct injection. It propels the GS 350 from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and at the same time, boosts its fuel economy to projected EPA-estimated ratings of 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.
The six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission comes with paddle shifters and sport driving functions for enhanced driving pleasure. The transmission incorporates many features adopted from the Lexus IS F high-performance sedan — including faster shifts, earlier torque converter lockup and downshift throttle blips — to support four driving modes (ECO, Normal, Sport S and available Sport S+) that can be operated by toggling the new Lexus Drive Mode selector.
To suit the needs of many drivers, the all-new GS 350 will offer unique packages, Premium Package, or Luxury Package. The new GS will be equipped with many standard features such as bi-xenon HID headlamps, L-shaped LED daytime running lights, Drive Mode Selector, paddle shifters, a new energy-saving auto climate control system, S-Flow, that uses the occupant-detection system to focus air-flow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated. Next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation that allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls and optional navigation, synthetic leather instrument panel with contrast stitching, LED interior lighting, a new multimedia system (with available next-generation Lexus Enform) and color TFT multi-information display.
For $1,400, the Premium Package includes rain-sensing wipers, heated and ventilated front seats and power rear sunshade. The Luxury Package, priced at $5,750, includes those features plus Adaptive Variable Suspension; an Adaptive Front Lighting System; unique high gloss linear espresso wood ornamentation; semi-aniline leather, 18-way power front driver and passenger seats with articulated back, side bolster and thigh support controls; four-way lumbar; butterfly headrests; driver and passenger seat memory; rear HVAC and audio controls; rear manual side sunshades; 18-inch alloy wheels; and wood and leather steering wheel.
The all-new GS F SPORT will offer customers more agility and an aggressive appearance. The GS F SPORT will be outfitted with a sport bumper, and rear lower valence, rear lip spoiler, unique mesh grille inserts and F SPORT badging. Unique to the F SPORT are 19-inch wheels, and F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension. In addition, rear-wheel drive models will be equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and new larger front brakes with high friction pads. The GS F SPORT interior features a new 16-way power driver’s sport seat and a unique interior design treatment.
The F SPORT Sport S+ mode engages handling enhancements via a sport setting of the adaptive variable suspension, steering system, and vehicle stability control (VSC) together with the powertrain enhancements of Sport S mode, all this for $5,690.
By adding the optional navigation system ($1,735), GS owners can enjoy an industry-first 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display. The split-screen ultra-large display enhances visibility through the use of advanced, high-definition graphics that are easy to read and easy to use. The 12.3-inch screen is large enough to support simultaneous, split-screen viewing of a large map display, plus audio, climate or other vehicle information.
GS models equipped with the optional navigation system will also have access to the next-generation Lexus Enform® Application Suite, the system that leverages the customers’ mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. Users can conduct local searches through Bing, or utilize voice-enabled apps to make restaurant reservations through OpenTable, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com or tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio.
They will also appreciate the ability to check-in on Facebook, and search for various business reviews including restaurants on Yelp. SiriusXM data services offer information on stocks, traffic, weather, sports and fuel prices. Enform® is supported on iPhone, Android and Blackberry.
William Maley

Chevy on track to surpass all-time sales record, Sonic in short supply

Decemeber 21st, 2011
black-knight
CheersandGears.com
There's reason to believe that the folks over at Chevrolet may have a huge New Year's party soon. The storied marquee turned 100-years old this year and, proving that age will not slow it down, is within reach of surpassing it's all time global sales record. At the end of November, 4.8 million cars worldwide were sold wearing the Bowtie badge and December doesn't show any signs of that pace slowing down.
It's very impressive, no doubt, but the gravy train doesn't stop there. All of those sales equaled up to Chevrolet increasing it's global market share by one half of a point and sixty percent of all Chevy models are now sold outside of the United States. It's a major step forward for a brand that's now finding itself stepping up to become GM's major global brand, a distinction that was once held by Opel. Growth has been seen in Chevy's newer markets -- China, South Korea, Vietnam, and Europe -- as well as in more familiar markets like South America.
Back at home in the U.S., Chevrolet's market share is only behind Ford's at 13.7 percent. But with sales nearing an all-time high and dealers only having a 17-day supply of the Chevrolet Sonic on hand, there's a chance Ford may find itself trailing Chevrolet soon.
(Source: The Detroit Bureau)
Blake Noble

Volkswagen Going All Out On Sharing Components

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 21, 2011
Volkswagen's plan for world domination is now entering it's next stage. Starting with the next Audi A3, Volkswagen will begin to standardize components and technologies across forty different models.
Volkswagen says the plan will help it lower production costs by 20%, cut assembly times by 30%, and save the company up to $6.5 billion per year. The plan will also let Volkswagen to build cars from different brands at the same plant.
However, not everyone likes the idea of standardization.
“If something goes wrong, then one may get hit by an epidemic plague. The more connected the structures, the higher the threat of contagion,” said Christoph Stuermer, an analyst with IHS Automotive.
Toyota is a good example of "contagion". More than 8 million Toyotas were recalled in the US in 2009 at a cost of over $48.8 million as a result of the “unintended acceleration” mess.
Volkswagen believes they will avoid these pitfalls.
"Risks exist when you undertake far-reaching improvements, but the implementation process is manageable," said Volkswagen production chief, Hubert Waltl.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

NHTSA Closes Their Investigation On 2011-2012 Ford Mustangs

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 21, 2011
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration has closed their investigation into 29,807 Ford Mustangs equipped with the manual transmission due to complaints alleging a faulty transmission.
"There is no indication of loss of motive power or unreasonable safety risk associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. The preliminary evaluation is closed," said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in a statement on its Web site.
NHTSA looked into 364 reports of shift quality issues and data from Ford to determine what is the issue and whether a recall would be issued.
During the investigation, NHTSA and Ford discovered several factors which caused the shift quality to go downhill.
"Ford identified several factors that may contribute to shift quality concerns in the subject vehicles, including cold transmission, clutch stay-out at high engine speeds, gear clash or grinding, and gradual loosening of clutch plate bolts in some early production vehicles," said NHTSA in its defect investigations summary.
NHTSA says the largest percentage of complaints came from owners who lived in a cold climate and the problem would go away once the vehicle warmed up.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Teased again: Buick's upcoming Encore

December 21, 2011
black-knight
CheersandGears.com
It was only last week that Buick offered us the first glimpse of their upcoming small crossover, the Encore, that's set to debut at the Detroit Auto Show this January. But apparently that one image wasn't enough of the Encore for Buick to reveal to world.
So how did Buick decide to follow up the Encore's first act? By taking the show over to Facebook where, section by section, a full image of the new CUV would be totally revealed by January 10th.
It still doesn't show much right now, but it's barely enough to sort of see that it won't be in anyway related to the Chevrolet Equinox or the old Saturn Vue.
Update: Another block dropped today.
Blake Noble

The Lexus LF-LC Concept leaks out ahead of Detroit debut

December 20,2011
black-knight
CheersandGears.com
If you've been following the news about the upcoming Detroit Auto Show, you'd already know that Lexus was planning to pull the wraps off of a brand new concept car that would showcase their upcoming design direction for all future vehicles. Lexus previously released two teaser images that revealed the driver's side headlamp and a portion of the interior of the car.
Thanks to Road & Track, though, you don't have to wait until next month to see the entire car. Someone blew the lid on the whole thing through R&T's YouTube account with a video that intended to preview the cover of next month's issue. What's revealed isn't a drastic change from Lexus' current design formula, but rather a significant evolution.
Further details are sure to come at Detriot. The video from Road & Track has now been made private, but rest assured, it's still floating around on the internet.

Update: Lexus releases some more

Blake Noble

How Much For The Tesla Model S In The Window?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 20, 2011
Tesla has released pricing and specifications of their upcoming Model S and it looks pretty good if the company can meet them.
The Model S' pricing is broken down by battery capacity and the range, with the 40-kWh battery pack model starting at $57,400, the 60-kWh battery pack model starting at $67,400, and the 85-kWh battery pack model starting at $77,400. There will also be a performance model which will use the 85-kWh battery pack starting at $87,400.
Specifications of the batteries has been released, with the 40-kWh model delivering 160-mile range, a top speed of 110 miles per hour and a 100,000-mile warranty; the 60-kWh pack juicing up for 230 miles, a 120 mph top speed and a 125,000-mile warranty; and the 85-kWh battery pack delivering 300 miles of range and a 125 mph top speed in standard spec and a 130 mph top speed in the Performance version. Both versions of the 85-kWh model will come with an unlimited mileage warranty.
Standard features in the Model S include a 17-inch touchscreen console display, 19-inch wheels, and three charge adapters. The option list for the Model S is long and includes 19-inch aerodynamic wheels, metallic paint, and an upgraded onboard charger.
Deliveries of Model S begin in Fall 2012.
Source: Tesla
William Maley

More Saab News: What Warranties? *UPDATED*

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 20, 2011
If you were thinking about stopping by your nearest Saab dealer to get a steal on a new 9-5, you might want to hear this.
Automotive News reports Saab Cars North America issued the following statement:
"Warranty coverage is suspended indefinitely for all new Saab vehicles sold. During this period, the warranty booklet must be removed from the owner information packet. For any vehicle sold or leased during this period, the customer should be affirmatively advised that the vehicle does not carry any warranty coverage and is sold 'as is.' "
Saab Cars North America also told Automotive News that they have suspended processing and payment of all claims, which include:
New-car warranties
Powertrain warranties
Emission warranties
Parts warranty
Safety belts, airbags
Towing
Recalls and campaigns
Certified pre-owned coverage
Goodwill
No charge maintenance

The question now being asked if this suspension is permanent or temporary. The answer will likely be decided when Saab goes through bankruptcy proceedings.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
UPDATE - GM announced they will extend warranty coverage for owners of Saab vehicle built before February 2010.
"In the event Saab cannot or will not fulfill its obligations to administer the warranty programs with its U.S. and Canadian dealers through Saab Cars North America or otherwise, GM will take necessary steps to ensure that remaining warranty obligations on Saab vehicles marketed by GM in the United States and Canada will be honored," said GM Spokesman Jim Cain.
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

Who's Interested In Saab?

With Saab heading into bankruptcy, companies are coming in to snap up pieces of the brand.
Hans Bergqvist, the administrator in charge of liquidating Saab told Swedish publication NyTeknik that many companies are interested in Saab's assets.
Berggvist did confirmed that one of the companies interested is Youngman Automotive. This should come as no surprise as the company tried to save Saab until the last minute and has invested tens of millions of euros to help pay for wages and taxes. A spokesman for the company said that it was primarily interested in the Phoenix platform that would have underpinned the next-generation 9-3 and possibly other technologies that didn't involve GM.
But there is another party that is also interested in Saab's assets, the Turkish government.
Turkey has numerous auto factories on its territory; Fiat, Renault, Toyota, Ford, and Hyundai all build cars there. But Turkey doesn't have their own brand. Buying up some of Saab's assets could help the country begin building their own car.
According to the report, the Turkish Embassy was in contact the ministry talking about Saab.
Source: NyTeknik
William Maley

After 103 Years, General Motors Corp. Shuts its Doors Forever

General Motors Corp., which was 103 years old and was once America's largest company quietly died on Dec. 15, 2011. There were no ceremonies or anyone present to mark the company's passing.
General Motors Corp. was founded in 1908, acquired more than 20 other companies in its life, including Oldsmobile, Chevrolet, Opel, and Oakland. It would become the world's largest Automaker from 1931 until 2008 when it was eclipsed by Toyota. For much of the century it was the world's largest company, and at one point employed more than 600,000 people.
In its final years it was known as "Old GM", although it had been been officially renamed "Motors Liquidation Co. when it went into bankruptcy in 2008. "Old GM" became the bad assets and debts of General Motors Corp. Some assets were sold to startup automakers Tesla and Fisker. The remaining assets, including some 65 building spanning 14 states and 40 million square feet are being transferred to four trusts, which includes The Revitalizing Auto Communities Environmental Trust (owner of those 65 buildings).
In some ways the passing of Old GM is more symbolic than it is substance. General Motors Co., born from the bankruptcy, and free of the debt and bad assets still uses the same trademarks, brand names, and email addresses.
In other ways it was a painful end of an era. Once having over 1 million stockholders in the 1960s, Old GM canceled stock during bankruptcy and made significant cuts on pension plans recipients Bondholders were only paid part of what they were owed and GM walked from with many bills.
However, while the chapter closes on General Motors Corp. and new one is being written for General Motors Co. New GM earned 7.1 billion in the first nine months of 2011, and is a leaner, more efficient company than it was before.
"It's the end of an era," said David Cole, chairman emeritus of the Center for Automotive Research. "But new GM is a phoenix rising from the ashes."
Intrepidation

Another Teaser! Ford's EcoSport Concept

December 19th, 2011 - "black-knight" - CheersandGears.com
As we've mentioned before, teaser shots are all the rage these days with automakers. Defining details of future production and concept cars are deliberately hidden and buried by very low lighting -- such has become a signature hallmark of these photographs. Ford, though, is taking another direction for their latest teaser, this time of their upcoming EcoSport concept.
Instead of a profile, front three-quarter, or rear three-quarter sketch or photograph that you can barely make out, Ford simply took a head-on shot of the car and cropped it to reveal part of the grille and a headlight, as well as the tumblehome of the glasshouse. They actually left the lighting alone for this one and what's left to look at in the photo appears to pretty much be standard-spec Ford design.
Don't bother looking for the EcoSport at the Detroit Auto Show next month, though, because chances are Ford probably won't sell it here. Instead, look for this Fiesta-based small crossover to take a bow at the upcoming Dalhi Auto Expo in India and appear in the European and Central and South American markets in addition to the Indian market where it will replace the European Fusion and a Fusion-based crossover of the same name.
The press release from Ford is on page two.
Blake Noble

Nissan's 2013 Pathfinder Concept Teased

As we've seen in prior months, GM, Ford, and Chrysler all love to tease us with shadowy, vague photos of their upcoming wares. Now, Nissan is joining in on the fun by releasing a teaser of their upcoming Pathfinder concept, set to debut at the Detroit Auto Show next month.
From what the teaser images show, the Pathfinder's sheetmetal moves from the rugged, boxy formula of the current model to a more flowing, aerodynamic design. There have been rumors that Nissan could be moving the upcoming Pathfinder to a unibody architecture (like Ford did with the Explorer), and there's no doubt the new styling along with Nissan's claims of a new platform for this new model will only serve to further fuel those claims.
Nissan says the new Pathfinder will find it's way to dealers in fall 2012.
Below is Nissan's relatively short press release:
Blake Noble

Detroit 2012: 2 E-Class Hybrids From Mercedes-Benz *UPDATED*

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 19, 2011
Alongside the new SL, Mercedes-Benz is showing two E-Class hybrids at next months Detroit Auto Show.
The first hybrid is the North America only E400 Hybrid. The E400 Hybrid is powered by Mercedes’ 3.5L V6 (302 HP and 273 lb-ft) mated to a electric motor (27 HP and 184 lb-ft) in the gearbox. Horsepower is 329 and torque is a very healthy 457 lb-ft. That gives the E400 Hybrid a 0-60 time of 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 130 MPH.
The second hybrid is the E300 Bluetec hybrid, which uses a 2.1L four-cylinder diesel engine (201 HP and 369 lb-ft) and the electric motor from the E400. Ratings for the E300 Bluetec hybrid stand at 228 HP and 553 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 for the E300 Bluetec hybrid takes 7.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 150 MPH.
Both hybrids come with 0.8-kWh lithium-ion battery that provide the power for the electric motor and provide an all-electric range of less than a mile at speeds below 35 mph.
Other fuel-saving features include optimized aerodynamics, automatic stop/start, brake energy regeneration, low-rolling-resistance tires, and a “sailing mode” that decouples the engine from the gearbox on a trailing throttle at speeds up to 100 MPH.
Source: Autoweek

Press Release is on Page 2

Mercedes-Benz launches hybrid offensive



The world's most economical luxury-class model



Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: 4.2 l of diesel/100 km,
109 g of CO2/km
Mercedes-Benz E 400 HYBRID: fuel economy of 27 mpg
More torque and performance without compromising on space and usable boot volume
Available in Saloon and Estate versions (E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID)
Modular hybrid concept using lithium-ion batteries
Reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption of around 15 percent compared with the E 250 CDI
Impressive driving experience thanks to start/stop function, regenerative braking, boost effect, purely electric motoring and "sailing" function

Mercedes-Benz is opening a new chapter in its brand's core segment and at the same time setting new standards for luxury-class business vehicles: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, available as a Saloon and Estate, impresses with new record values when it comes to efficiency. It boasts exemplary consumption levels (4.2 l/100 km) as well as impressive performance: the 4-cylinder diesel engine of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID has 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 Nm. Combined with an electric motor producing 20 kW and 250 Nm, this results in a coherent overall concept. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the most economical luxury-class vehicle in the world.
The V6-cylinder petrol engine in the E 400 HYBRID produces 225 kW (306 hp) and 370 Nm, and is also supplemented by a further 20 kW and 250 Nm from the electric motor. The consumption figures based on the American CAFE standard are: City 24 mpg, Highway 31 mpg, Combined 27 mpg.
"With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive. The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models", explains Professor Dr. Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "With a clear focus on the different requirements of global markets, we are able to offer precisely the models which our customers want. The E-Class hybrids provide a clear reduction in consumption as well as a very impressive driving experience: they represent hybrid motoring at the premium level."
The new models do not require their passengers to have to compromise when it comes to space, however, whether in terms of the interior or the luggage compartment. And there are also additional benefits to the intelligent modular hybrid concept, which represents a comprehensive enhancement of the Mercedes-Benz S 400 HYBRID which has advanced to the position of clear market leader since 2009: no changes to the vehicle body are required, the hybrid module is both flexible and modular, thus allowing its use in other model series, and in addition to diesel and petrol variants there will also be right hand drive variants. Meanwhile, the extra cost involved here is only moderate. The new hybrid models will be celebrating their world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show (14 to 22 January 2012) and will appear on the market over the course of the year. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned to be launched on the European market, while the E 400 HYBRID will be made available on the American market first, followed by other countries such as Japan and China later.
Highlights of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID at a glance:
Compact, intelligent and modular hybrid concept: no changes to the body of the base vehicle are necessary
Also available as an Estate
Space, safety and comfort remain unchanged
No compromises in terms of space, safety and comfort
Significant increase in comfort with start/stop operation; noiseless start, complete climatic comfort
Top marks for consumption in the luxury-class business vehicle segment: 4.2 litres/100 km, 109 g CO2/km
Part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz: increase in the engine output of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID with 150 kW + 20 kW electric motor/500 Nm + 250 Nm, compared with the E 250 CDI (150 kW/500 Nm), positioning it at the same level as the E 300 CDI (170 kW/540 Nm)
Fuel savings of around 15 percent compared with the E 250 CDI – even in actual road traffic conditions
Impressive hybrid driving experience (start/stop function, regenerative braking, boost effect, purely electric motoring and "sailing" function)

Highlights of the E 400 HYBRID at a glance:
Compact, intelligent and modular hybrid concept: no changes to the body of the base vehicle are necessary
No compromises in terms of space, safety and comfort
Significant increase in comfort with start/stop operation; noiseless start, complete climatic comfort
Consumption combined (CAFE): 27 mpg
Part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz: increase in the engine output of the E 400 HYBRID by some 20 kW and 250 Nm thanks to the electric motor
Impressive hybrid driving experience (start/stop function, regenerative braking, boost effect, purely electric motoring and "sailing" function)

William Maley

SAAB Files For Bankruptcy

December 19th, 2011 - Drew Dowdell - CheersandGears.com -
It looks like the end is nigh for troubled Swedish automaker SAAB who filed for bankruptcy in Vänersborg, Sweden today. After receiving a number of life lines in the way of funding promises via various Chinese banks and auto manufacturers, the final life line by Youngman Automotive was cut when General Motors officially stated that they would not approve the deal.
Just last week, the court appointed administrator for SAAB's voluntary reorganization, Guy Lofalk, quit giving SAAB another two weeks to finalize the deal with Youngman Automotive.
The official press release from SAAB is on page 2
Zeewolde, The Netherlands, 19 December 2011 – Swedish Automobile N.V. (Swan) announces that Saab Automobile AB (Saab Automobile), Saab Automobile Tools AB and Saab Powertrain AB filed for bankruptcy with the District Court in Vänersborg, Sweden this morning.
After having received the recent position of GM on the contemplated transaction with Saab Automobile, Youngman informed Saab Automobile that the funding to continue and complete the reorganization of Saab Automobile could not be concluded. The Board of Saab Automobile subsequently decided that the company without further funding will be insolvent and that filing bankruptcy is in the best interests of its creditors. It is expected that the Court will approve of the filing and appoint receivers for Saab Automobile very shortly.
Swan does not expect to realize any value from its shares in Saab Automobile and will write off its interest in Saab Automobile completely.
Source: SAAB Global Media
Drew Dowdell

New CAFE Standards = Larger Cars?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 19, 2011
A new study from the University of Michigan says the proposed CAFE standards could actually make new cars larger, not smaller.
The study used simulations of 473 different vehicles to figure how automakers could modify vehicle dimensions, implement fuel-saving technology features and trade off performance and fuel economy. Pricing was also taken into account. Their results showed that automakers would increase the size of vehicles to meet CAFE standards instead of adding technologies.
“For just about all the scenarios, the car got bigger. What you can model in a computer is different from reality, but based on this research we expect it to happen,” said Steven Skerlos, an associate professor in the U-M Department of Mechanical Engineering.
But why are vehicles growing? Well the study points out in 2007, the CAFE standards were revised. One of those changes was a new formula that measures a vehicle’s “footprint,” calculated by multiplying wheelbase by track width. That means larger vehicles have a smaller fuel economy target, giving automakers a loophole.
“It’s cheaper to make large vehicles, and meeting fuel-economy standards costs [manufacturers] money in implementing and looking at what consumers will purchase,” said Katie Whitefoot, a researcher involved with the study.
The study calls on the US government to revise its formula.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
Press Release & Study Result is on Page 2

CAFE standards create profit incentive for larger vehicles


Published on Dec 07, 2011
Written by Nicole Casal Moore
ANN ARBOR, Mich.-The current Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards create a financial incentive for auto companies to make bigger vehicles that are allowed to meet lower targets, according to a new University of Michigan study.
Over their lifetimes, these larger vehicles would generate between three and ten 1,000-megawatt coal-fired power plants' worth of excess carbon emissions. A 1,000-megawatt plant could provide power for more than half a million people.
"This study illustrates that there may be a substantial financial incentive to produce larger vehicles, and that it can undermine the goals of the policy," said Kate Whitefoot, who conducted the research as a U-M design science doctoral student and is now a senior program officer at the National Academy of Engineering.
"The results show that the policy can be adjusted to reduce these unintended incentives by making it harder to lower the fuel economy targets by producing larger vehicles."
The study is published online in Energy Policy.
The loophole is the formula for setting mile-per-gallon targets. The standards, which actually depend on the sizes of vehicles automakers produce, are expected to require that firms boost average fuel economy to 35.5 mpg by 2016 and 54.5 mpg by 2025. Those oft-cited numbers are averages. In reality, each car company must meet a different standard each year determined by the literal "footprints" of the vehicles it makes. A vehicle's footprint is its track width times its wheelbase.
According to the study, the sales-weighted average vehicle size in 2014 could increase by 1 to 16 square feet, undermining fuel economy improvements between 1 and 4 mpg. That means the industry as a whole would not achieve that year's fuel economy goal.
"We know it's a broad range, but we looked at a large range of possible consumer preferences for vehicle attributes and the answer is probably somewhere in the middle," said Steven Skerlos, an associate professor in the U-M Department of Mechanical Engineering.
"Will cars get bigger? Very possibly. Will that lead to more pollution? Yes. And there wasn't an emphasis in the rulemaking process that this could happen."
The impetus for the footprint-based formula back in 2006 was to prevent an influx of smaller vehicles, though not necessarily to do the opposite. Critics worried that the previous one-size-fits-all standard unfairly and perhaps dangerously rewarded production of slimmer, lighter vehicles that could put the domestic industry at a disadvantage and drivers at greater risk. The researchers believe the correction overshot its target.
They found that light trucks would grow even more than cars, which could yet lead to traffic safety concerns. They call on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to revise the formula.
This study was more than just an economic analysis. Whitefoot built a first-of-its-kind model that considered supply and demand but also incorporated engineering tradeoffs that carmakers consider as well as a wide range of possible consumer preferences.
They conducted simulations with 473 different vehicles. In the simulations, auto firms could adjust the size of their vehicles, add fuel-saving technologies, balance acceleration performance with fuel economy, and adjust vehicle prices. The result, Skerlos says, is an exciting new framework where economists, environmentalists, engineers and policymakers can work together.
"Sustainability is about tradeoffs," Skerlos said. "On the one hand, there's a concern about vehicle size largely driven by safety and the effect on domestic automakers. The adjustment to the CAFE standard tries to achieve high fuel economy while not compromising vehicle size, and the idea here is these things intersect and you have an equivalent of three to 10 coal-fired power plants hidden in that tradeoff."
The research is funded by the Michigan Memorial Phoenix Energy Institute and the National Science Foundation. The paper is titled "Design Incentives to Increase Vehicle Size Created from the U.S. Footprint-Based Fuel Economy Standards."

William Maley

Detroit 2012: Chevrolet Sonic RS Takes A Bow

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 19, 2011
Chevrolet has pulled the curtain back on a hotter version of Sonic. The 2013 Sonic RS will make it's official debut at next month's Detroit Auto Show.
The Sonic RS differs from the regular Sonic with a new front and rear fascia, rear spoiler, side sills, five-spoke alloy wheels, and a lower, stiffer suspension.
Power comes from the Sonic's 1.4L turbo four producing 138 HP and 148 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard with a six-speed automatic optional.
Inside, the Sonic RS features sport seats, sport steering wheel, aluminum sport pedals, new trim, and gauge cluster treatment. The Sonic RS will also come with Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system standard.
Pricing for the Sonic RS hasn't been announced. The Sonic RS will hit Chevrolet showrooms sometime late next year.

Press Release is on Page 2

Turbocharged 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS Pushes Performance



Unique exterior and interior styling, sport-tuned suspension and standard MyLink


DETROIT – A hotter Chevrolet Sonic is about to sound off – the 2013 Sonic RS. It goes on sale in late 2012, after making its public debut at the North American International Auto Show Jan. 14-22.
The new RS amplifies the Sonic’s youthful style and driving experience with unique exterior and interior features matched with a 138-horsepower (103 kW) Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine. Sonic is the only vehicle in its segment to offer a turbocharged powertrain.
“The new Chevrolet Sonic RS pushes Chevrolet’s performance heritage in a new direction, for a new generation of drivers,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Global Chevrolet Marketing. “It takes the Sonic’s great design and latest connectivity features and combines them with a more performance-oriented look and feel.”
The Sonic RS is offered exclusively in the five-door body style. Chevrolet’s exclusive MyLink infotainment system is standard. It enables navigation directions downloaded through a smart phone to be shown on the radio’s large display, and offers the personalized connectivity of Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio.
Sonic RS exterior features
New front fascia with new fog lamp design
New RS-specific grille
New rear fascia
New rear spoiler
New rocker moldings
Unique mirror cap finish
Retuned sport exhaust with chrome outlet
Unique 17-inch five-spoke wheel design
Lowered and stiffened suspension with performance-tuned dampers
RS badging.

The more-aggressive look of the Sonic RS is inspired by the concept that debuted in Detroit in 2010. The Sonic RS will be available in Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and Black Granite Metallic, which is a new exterior color for the 2013 Sonic.
“The Sonic RS remains true to the progressive spirit of the concept and brings an unmistakable attitude to the segment,” said John Mack, design director for the Sonic. “From every angle and every touch point, it is a car that is unabashed in its performance statement – and one that drives Chevrolet’s performance legacy into its second century.”
One of the most-dramatic cues from the concept carried into the production model is the Sonic RS’s front fascia, which has a deep air dam design that enhances the car’s road-hugging stance. Vertical intakes at the edges of the fascia reinforce the wide, low proportion and house the fog lamps.
Sonic RS interior features
New front sport seats
New sport steering wheel with thicker rim and racing-inspired flat-bottom design
New shifter knob (manual transmission)
New aluminum sport pedals
Specific instrument panel cluster graphics
RS-specific interior trim color for the instrument panel and door trim inserts.

“Like the exterior, the Sonic RS’s interior looks and feels the part of a true performance car,” said Mack. “The seats are firm and provide great lateral support during quick cornering and the feel of the thick, flat-bottom steering wheel is a feature driving enthusiasts will truly appreciate.”
The Sonic RS’s interior is a connected environment, with the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment seven-inch color touch screen radio. This system allows customers to bring customized music libraries into the vehicle and use their smart phones and Bluetooth connectivity to access Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio and navigation. Navigation directions downloaded through a smart phone can be displayed on the screen and, when the vehicle is stopped, users can project video and even personal photo albums onto the screen from their phone.
Sonic RS performance
The Sonic RS is powered by a standard Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine that is rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) – and provides an immediate feeling of power that is sustained across the rpm band, for a greater feeling of performance at lower rpm. It’s matched with a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic.
Unique gear ratios for the six-speed manual transmission and unique final drive ratio for the automatic give the Sonic RS a sportier feel than non-RS models.
Complementing the segment-exclusive turbocharged powertrain is MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and stabilizer bar, and a semi-independent, torsion beam axle-mount compound link-type rear suspension – featuring a robust, tubular V-shape beam – with gas-charged shocks. The front and rear tracks are identical at 59.4 inches (1,509 mm), for well-planted stability and balance.
The new RS is the only Sonic model offered with four-wheel disc brakes, which are partnered with a four-channel anti-lock braking system. The four-sensor system – one at each wheel – incorporates electronic brake force distribution, which balances braking performance based on such factors as road conditions and the weight of passengers and/or cargo.
Electric power steering is standard and features a wear compensator that continually adjusts the system interaction with the steering gear to ensure precise steering action over the life of the system.
Sonic lineup at a glance
The Chevrolet Sonic is offered in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a five-door, with a starting price of $14,495 (including destination charge). Each body style delivers class-leading, rear-seat roominess and cargo space. Vehicle highlights include:
Standard Ecotec 1.8L engine (non-RS models) paired with five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions
Standard electric power steering and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing
Sedan offers trunk capacity that is greater than most compact cars; hatchback and sedan offer better rear-seat roominess than Ford Fiesta. With a rear seat that folds nearly flat, the Sonic hatchback has greater cargo capacity than Fiesta
Connectivity includes OnStar with six months of Turn-by-Turn navigation. Available features include XM Satellite Radio, USB and Bluetooth functionality and MyChevrolet mobile application
Remote start, heated front seats and sunroof – all rarities in the segment
Ten standard air bags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and OnStar with Automatic Crash Response.

Sonic is built at the General Motors’ Orion Assembly Center in Michigan, which received a $545-million investment in upgrades and retooling and helped restore approximately 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan Detroit area.
William Maley

Carbon Motors Sends Letter To Obama's Cabinet

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 18, 2011
Carbon Motors, the company behind the purpose-built E7 police vehicle sent a letter to President Obama's cabinet on Friday urging them to approve the company's Department of Energy Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing loan. Carbon Motors applied for ATVM loan program two years ago, but hasn't seen a cent of it.
The letter goes on a point by point basis on why they deserve the loan, ranging from the environmental impact of the current fleet of police vehicles to the amount of people that would be put work to build the E7.
The Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing loan program has been criticized for taking too long to get money to companies. Last month, U.S. Rep. Bill Flores R-Texas introduced a bill to end the program.
Related:
Texas Senator Proposes Ending Auto Loan Program
Letter is on Page 2
Carbon Motors Chairman Issues Open Letter to U.S. President's Cabinet
Carbon Motors in Support of U.S. Law Enforcement and the Role of Government
CONNERSVILLE, Ind., Dec. 15, 2011-- The following is an open letter from William Santana Li, chairman and chief executive officer, Carbon Motors Corporation, to select members of the President's Cabinet:
To:
The Honorable Eric H. Holder, Jr., Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice
The Honorable John E. Bryson, Secretary, U.S. Department of Commerce
The Honorable Hilda L. Solis, Secretary, U.S. Department of Labor
The Honorable Ray LaHood, Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation
The Honorable Steven Chu, Secretary, U.S. Department of Energy
The Honorable Janet A. Napolitano, Secretary, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
The Honorable Lisa P. Jackson, Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency
The Honorable Jacob J. Lew, Director, Office of Management & Budget
cc:
The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Vice President of the United States
Dear Members of the President's Cabinet,
I am writing to you about a matter of national significance and of great importance to our country's law enforcement first responders generally, and specifically each of the departments for which you have responsibility. We share concerns expressed by countless law enforcement professionals to us over the last nine years:
our brave first responders are asked to secure our country, patrol our streets, and protect our communities without the appropriate equipment to empower them to do so in a manner that is safe for the officer and the public at large;
the vehicles being used today are highly inefficient – both economically and environmentally; and
the vast majority of the vehicles in the existing law enforcement fleet use passenger cars intended for retail consumer use and which were not manufactured on U.S. soil by American workers.
Carbon Motors Corporation is a homeland security technology company that is developing the world's first and only purpose-built law enforcement patrol vehicle. Over two years ago, Carbon Motors filed an application for a loan of over $300 million with the Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing (ATVM) program. The ATVM direct loan program was established in a bi-partisan manner by the Bush Administration and has been carried on by the Obama Administration.
We have secured a mothballed automotive facility located in a town with unemployment at rates significantly higher than the national average – Connersville, Indiana – a victim of the fallout of automotive industry at the end of the last decade. With the ongoing criticisms aired concerning the U.S. Department of Energy's loan guarantee programs and the ATVM direct loan program, our country faces a critical decision now that will have significant impact on our first responders, taxpayers, environment, highways, our manufacturing employment base and the security of our homeland.
There are 840,000+ law enforcement first responders – sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters – who get up every morning and put themselves in harm's way to protect and serve each and every one of us, over 18,000 of them have already made the ultimate sacrifice. They patrol our streets and neighborhoods using gas-guzzling retail passenger cars that were not designed for this relentless mission and which, after the necessary aftermarket retrofitting process, do not meet federal safety standards applicable to all other passenger vehicles on the road.
While we know each of you join in our nation's unwavering support for its first responders, we wanted to highlight certain significant issues facing each of your respective critical missions and Carbon Motors' contribution to a comprehensive solution:
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY; Secretary Steven Chu
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY; Administrator Lisa P. Jackson
ISSUE: The largest and most visible combined fleet of vehicles deployed by our federal, state and local governments is among the most inefficient consuming over 1.5 billion gallons of fuel every year and emitting over 14 million tons of CO2. This at a time when our country is desperately trying to reduce its dangerous dependence on foreign oil and reduce its greenhouse gas footprint.
SOLUTION: Approve the Carbon Motors ATVM loan and our country can begin to reduce these figures by 40%.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE; Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY; Secretary Janet A. Napolitano
ISSUE: Presently, our over 19,000 law enforcement agencies fend for themselves in an uncoordinated manner as they cobble together passenger vehicles meant for retail consumers with the vast array of aftermarket equipment necessary to successfully carry out their mission, while our country provides purpose-built vehicles for nearly every other unique public function – fire trucks, ambulances, postal services, trash collection, and a massive fleet of purpose-built vehicles of all types and sizes for the military.
SOLUTION: Approve the Carbon Motors ATVM loan and our country will finally have the world's first truly purpose-built homeland security technology platform to better secure our country – inclusive of roving WMD threat detection capability. Let's focus our law enforcement resources on protecting our citizens, and put an end to the inefficient practice of operating 19,000+ uncoordinated automotive assembly operations by law enforcement agencies nationwide.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR; Secretary Hilda L. Solis
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY; Administrator Lisa P. Jackson
ISSUE: With the nation hovering near double-digit unemployment rates and virtually everyone in our country rightly focused on American jobs, our state, local and federal law enforcement agencies imported the over 500,000 patrol vehicles used by our law enforcement personnel from foreign soil. This is an unacceptable use of U.S. taxpayer dollars.
SOLUTION: Approve the Carbon Motors ATVM loan and we will bring these jobs home to America, where they rightfully belong. It is estimated that our project will create 10,000+ new American jobs of national importance by building a technological breakthrough on U.S. soil in a region decimated by the automotive downturn – and we will do so in a mothballed brownfield facility we have already begun restoring.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION; Secretary Ray LaHood
ISSUE: The over 500,000 law enforcement vehicles patrolling our neighborhoods today do not meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, putting both our first responders and citizens on the road at risk. We, as a country, would never stand for the placement of a U.S. soldier in a similarly haphazardly-equipped vehicle and it is unacceptable to do this with our nation's brave first responders.
SOLUTION: Approve the Carbon Motors ATVM loan and our first responders will be driving a vehicle that will meet or exceed all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards inclusive of all the law enforcement and homeland security equipment integrated into the vehicle platform.
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET; Director Jacob J. Lew
ISSUE: Today's practice of allowing over 19,000 law enforcement agencies across the country to individually retrofit consumer-oriented vehicles is extremely costly and inefficient, with expenditures at the local, state, and federal level expected to be on the order of $100 billion over the next decade.
SOLUTION: Approve the Carbon Motors ATVM loan and we will provide the nation with the only product presently in the ATVM loan program that will save the government a significant amount of money. The purpose-built, turn-key distribution of the Carbon E7 will reduce maintenance costs, improve durability, and, combined with the fuel savings and the extensive capabilities of the vehicle, result in dramatic savings for U.S. taxpayers nationwide. If the entire fleet were to be converted to Carbon E7 vehicles, the country could save over $10 billion taxpayer dollars over a period of ten years.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE; Secretary John E. Bryson
ISSUE: Our nation continues to run unacceptably high trade imbalances, as American manufacturing has eroded and the nation has continued to devolve into an importer of foreign goods rather than an exporter of American innovation.
SOLUTION: Approve the Carbon Motors ATVM loan allowing our company to complete our project and respond to the nearly three-dozen requests by countries around the world for export of our breakthrough American product helping to put even more Americans to work.
As one of our Senior Advisors, The Honorable Lee H. Hamilton (vice-chair of the 9/11 Commission), has often remarked: the first role of government is to protect its citizens. There are lives at stake and we stand ready to do our part to better enable our first responders to meet their critical mission and, in the process, improve officer and highway safety, reduce harmful emissions and dependence on foreign oil, and put Americans back to work.
We need your help in making this happen, especially as the matter we have raised is a cross-cabinet or interagency concern. The first step to take is the timely approval of our ATVM loan as it is in the national security and socioeconomic interests of the United States of America.
On behalf of the 840,000+ first responders across our great country we thank you in advance for your timely support of this critical national initiative.
Relentless,
/s/
William Santana Li
Chairman and CEO
Carbon Motors Corporation
William Maley

Former Car Czar Says All Stakeholders Should Have Given Up More

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 17, 2011
Steven Rattner, the former car czar that oversaw the federal bailouts of General Motors and Chrysler, said on Thursday to the Detroit Economic Club that the Obama administration's Auto Task Force should have forced all the stakeholders, including the United Auto Workers, to make more sacrifices.
"We asked all the stakeholders to make very significant sacrifices. We should have asked the UAW to do a bit more. We did not ask any UAW member to take a cut in their pay," he told the club.
Rattner also revealed that the US Government gave GM too much money, but on the side of caution.
"We put more cash into GM than we probably needed to — and we knew this. It's part of why GM is so well-capitalized today."
Source: Detroit News
William Maley

The Last Ford Ranger

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 16, 2011
This morning, the final Ford Ranger rolled off the Twin Cities assembly line, ending the twenty-nine year life of Ford’s compact truck.
The Ranger was introduced back in 1982 as 1983 model and came into the growing market of compact trucks, becoming one the best selling trucks. In 1993, Ford revised the Ranger and got a Mazda counterpart, the B-Series a year later. With both four-cylinder and V6 engines, manual or automatic transmissions, and two or four-wheel drive, the Ranger and B-Series became a formidable force in the sales charts throughout the 90’s.
But during the 2000s, the demand for small pickups began to fall from 6% to 2% in 2010. The Ranger still stood strong despite using technology from the stone age and limited marketing, selling 60,000 last year.
Ford has said there will no direct replacement for the Ranger and will push people towards the F-150. Dealers and and customers say that is a poor idea, especially with GM, Ram, and other readying their next small trucks.
The ending of Ranger production also signals the end of the Twin Cities assembly line which has been building vehicles for 86 years, ranging from the Model T to the Ranger.
Source: Auto Guide
William Maley

Mopar JK8 Independence Pickup Kit For Jeep Wrangler A Big Seller

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 16, 2011
For the longest time, Jeep enthusiasts have been clamoring for a Wrangler pickup. The closest Jeep has come to making this dream come true is offer a kit called JK8 Independence that changes a Wrangler Unlimited into a Wrangler Truck. And the kits are flying off the shelf.
Ward’s Auto reports that Mopar was estimating orders for the kit to be around 200-300. However, dealer orders for the kit are around 400. Mopar President Pietro Gorlier said Mopar is stepping up and getting kits sent out to dealers.
Of course, thoughts turn to whether this means a production version will come out. Gorlier said that public response will play a huge part in future of a Wrangler pickup but warned the company “needs to balance the excitement of those who are blogging with real [sales] numbers.”
But Gorlier does point out Jeep President Mike Manley has gone on record as saying that the next redesign of the Wrangler could include a pickup option, though no definite plans have been announced.
Source: Ward’s Auto
Related:
Mopar Puts JK-8 Kit Up For Sale
William Maley

Detroit 2012: Nissan Showing Two Concepts

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 15, 2011
The Detroit Auto Show is just around the corner and more automakers are releasing some information about what they will be presenting. This time it's Nissan saying they will be showing off two concepts.
Concept #1 is the Pathfinder. Nissan says the concept will inspire the next-generation Pathfinder's styling before the it goes on sale later next year. The rumorpile has the next Pathfinder dropping it's body-on-frame architecture and going towards a unibody architecture.
Concept #2 is a all-electric van that Nissan says is suitable for both families and businesses. The van concept previews a production model, possibly from Nissan's NV vans.
Press Release is on Page 2

NISSAN ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR 2012 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW


The worldwide debut of two concept vehicles will highlight Nissan's presence at the upcoming 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. An all electric van concept, which underscores Nissan's leadership in zero emissions vehicles and the Nissan Pathfinder preview concept, which provides a sneak peek at the next generation of Nissan's longest running nameplate in the U.S., will be unveiled during the NAIAS press preview days, beginning Monday, January 9.
In addition to full access to Nissan's global concepts during both days of the show, media interviews will be available with Nissan team members. Nissan Chief Executive Officer, Carlos Ghosn will also be the opening keynote speaker at the Automotive News World Congress on Tuesday, Jan. 10 in Detroit.
Nissan NAIAS Highlights:
- The Pathfinder Concept, which previews the all-new look, style and attitude that Nissan will bring to the SUV segment when the next-generation Pathfinder goes on sale in fall 2012 at Nissan dealers nationwide.
- Nissan's innovative electric van concept. This concept previews a future production version of a full electric vehicle designed to provide businesses or families with flexible, roomy cargo space, while offering a dramatic CO2 footprint reduction.
- A Nissan NV outfitted as a "Food Truck" with a local Detroit flair showcases the vehicle's flexibility and user-friendly features, but acts as a culinary cornerstone for media hospitality throughout both press days.
William Maley

Rumorpile: Is This Next Kia Forte?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 15, 2011
The current Kia Forte is a nicely styled and nicely priced compact car. However, when the Forte in the same group as the Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, and Chevrolet Cruze, it seems to be forgotten.
But Kia isn't giving up. If these sketches from Kia World are to be believed, the next Forte will be noticed. The sketches show the next Forte borrowing heavily from the styling of the Kia Optima.
The next Forte is expected to shown sometime in 2012.
Source: Kia World
William Maley

Saab's Court Administrator Quits

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 15, 2011
Guy Lofalk, the court-appointed administrator of Saab’s voluntary reorganization is quitting his post.
“The Saab companies and Guy Lofalk have jointly requested that Guy Lofalk will be dismissed as administrator and that lawyer Lars-Henrik Andersson is appointed as a new administrator," said a statement on the Vanersborg District Court website.
Saab spokesman, Eric Geers stated that it was Lofalk’s own decision to quit. However, reports from the Swedish media conflict with Geers statement, indicating that Victor Mueller, CEO of Saab parent company Sweidsh Automobile, was eager for Lofalk to leave.
The Vanersborg District Court was originally going to decide whether to approve Lofalk’s application to end the reorganisation process for Saab tomorrow, but has been pushed to next week in light of the news.
Source: Autocar
Related:
Saab Gets Two Lifelines
William Maley

Senate Committee Passes Overhaul Of Auto Safety

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 15, 2011
Yesterday, the Senate Commerce Committee approved a bill that would overhaul the nation's auto safety laws. The bill includes measures to raise the maximum fine for automakers that delay recalls from $17.35 million to $250 milllion.
The bill also includes measures that would give states grants for banning texting while driving or the use of cell phones by teen drivers, increase funding for research, improve the vehicle recall database and website, create a hotline for mechanics, dealers and auto workers to complain anonymously about safety problems with vehicles, and new regulations on pedal placement, push-button ignition and electronic performance issues.
Automakers are mixed on the bill. All of them back certain measures of the bill, but disagree on the raised fines. A coalition of groups, which include the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, Association of Global Automakers, National Association of Manufacturers and American International Automobile Dealers Association sent a letter to congress opposing the increase.
"The proposed increases are so out of proportion either to the current penalty structure or the penalty structure for other manufacturers under the Consumer Product Safety Act as to appear unfairly punitive. The proposed increases should be scaled back to a more appropriate level," the letter states.
Automakers also note that in 2010, the number of road deaths fell to its lowest number since 1949 (under 33,000).
The senate hopes to include the bill in a highway reauthorization bill coming early next year.
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

Detroit 2012: The 3 Engines Of ATS

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 14, 2011
Today, Cadillac has revealed the powertrain lineup for their new ATS sedan. The lineup includes two fours and a six.
The base ATS engine will be naturally aspirated 2.5L I-4 engine. GM hasn't released any details about it, but it looks like to be the same engine found under the new Chevrolet Malibu, which gets 190 HP and 180 lb-ft of torque.
The next engine up is a 2.0L turbocharged I-4.Now before you go out and think this is the same engine you find in the Regal Turbo and GS, it's not. This 2.0L turbo is a part of a new Ecotec engine lineup and will use an electronically controlled twin-scroll turbocharger to keep its torque curve flat. The 2.0L Turbo is rated at 270 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque. The ATS will be the first vehicle to use this engine and could possibly find it's way into the new Malibu.
The top engine is the venerable 3.6L direct injected V6 making 318 HP and 275 lb-ft of torque.
Press Release is on Page 2

New 2.0L Turbo Engine Boosts the Cadillac ATS


135 horsepower per liter among top-performing engines in the world
Compact ATS debuts at North American International Auto Show in Detroit

DETROIT – A new high-performance 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine will debut in the all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS compact luxury sedan, which will be revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in January.
The Cadillac-tuned, direct-injected engine will produce an estimated 270 horsepower (201 kW). At 135 horsepower per liter, it will be one of the most power-dense automotive engines, besting the highest-performing engines from luxury competitors such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes.
“This engine is the perfect match for the new ATS, which will be a refined performance luxury sedan,” said Don Butler, Cadillac vice president of Global Marketing. “The 2.0T has an exceptionally smooth and responsive power curve that will make the ATS nimble, quick and fun to drive.”
The new 2.0T highlights a broad engine lineup that will power the ATS which is slated to begin production next summer. Cadillac will also offer a normally aspirated 2.5L four cylinder engine and a 3.6L V-6 engine in the ATS.
The 2.0T builds on the advanced-technology heritage of previous GM turbo engines with features that enhance efficiency, durability and refinement.
Among the 2.0T engine’s highlights: a direct-injection twin-cam, four-valve-per-cylinder engine with continuously variable valve timing; twin-scroll turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler; forged-steel crankshaft with modular balance shaft system; and a two-stage variable-displacement oil pump with jet-spray piston cooling.
Overall engine friction is reduced by up to 16 percent. The low-friction design means engine power is delivered more efficiently.
Proprietary computational fluid dynamics analysis techniques were used to develop an all-new combustion system with a higher compression ratio, which also helped boost efficiency.
“The 2.0T is one of the most advanced and efficient engines of its kind, and contributes to the ATS’s exceptional balance of performance and great fuel efficiency,” said Mike Anderson, chief engineer for the 2.0T engine.
The 2.0T has a wide torque curve, delivering 90 percent of its peak 260 lb-ft. of torque (353 Nm) from 1,500 rpm to 5,800 rpm – giving the ATS the feeling of immediate power, whether from launch at a stop light or during higher-speed maneuvers, such as passing.
The turbocharger generates up to 20 pounds of boost and its twin-scroll design helps optimize power availability, virtually eliminating turbo lag and helping deliver a broad power band.
“It has the exhilarating, responsive power available when you want it, yet can provide the fuel efficiency that will make the ATS a fully competitive vehicle in global markets,” Anderson said.
At 135 hp/L, the ATS 2.0T four-cylinder turbo engine has the highest power density among key competitors, including:
Audi A4’s 2.0L turbo (105.5 hp/L)
BMW M3’s V-8 (103.5 hp/L)
Lexus IS F’s V-8 (83.2 hp/L)
Mercedes-Benz C250’s 1.8L turbo (111.6 hp/L)

Additional details on the ATS will be announced at the 2012 NAIAS. The ATS will be built at the Lansing Grand River plant alongside the Cadillac CTS Sedan, Coupe and Sport Wagon and V-Series performance cars.
William Maley

Detroit 2012: Hello Buick Encore

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 14, 2011
Next month's Detroit Auto Show is becoming more interesting as the days go by, with the new Dodge Dart, Mercedes-Benz SL, Cadillac ATS, Honda Accord, three Acuras, and now the Buick Encore.
Buick released their first teaser shot of the new small crossover this afternoon. From what the picture shows the Encore will carry many Buick design trademarks, including a chrome waterfall grille, porthole vents and almond-shaped headlights with xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights with a blueish hue.
Buick has also revealed the Encore will feature "QuietTuning" technology and will offer a similar feature and options packages to current Buick vehicles.
William Maley

Saab Gets Two Lifelines

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 14, 2011
Last time on the story of Saab; Guy Lofalk, the court-appointed administrator of Saab’s voluntary reorganization filed paperwork to end the reorganization and the Swedish courts would make decision this Friday. But like all other times, Saab has found a lifeline to keep them afloat. This time, Saab has found two.
Lifeline #1 comes from Youngman Automotive who sent Saab 3.45 million Euros (about $5 million U.S. dollars) to cover immediate tax expenses this week. But that's not all; Youngman is promising a further $26.4 million payment this week to cover unpaid salaries and $13.2 million more by the end of December.
Lifeline #2 comes from Swedish courts. Originally, the Court told Saab they had until tomorrow to present a case on why the court should continue the voluntary reorganization. Well, the Court has moved the hearing to next week.
Source: Reuters, Left Lane News
William Maley

Ford Releases More Info On Focus Electric, C-Max Hybrid, and C-Max Energi

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 14, 2011
Ford is making the hybrid and electric market a bit more exciting with some recent announcements today with their new Focus Electric, C-Max Hybrid, and C-Max Energi models.
Starting with Focus Electric, Ford says it will be "the first all-electric vehicle to achieve a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) fuel efficiency rating." However, the Mitsubishi i EV gets 112 MPGe on the EPA combined cycle, thus beating the Focus Electric? Kind of; the Mitsubishi i EV can only seat four people while the Focus Electric can seat five, thus the Focus Electric can keep it's title.
Ford also says the charging time of the Focus Electric is about 3 to 4 hours when plugged into a 240V charger. That's in part to some new battery charging technology.
Then we come to the C-Max Hybrid and Energi models. Ford says the C-Max Hybrid will get "better fuel economy than Toyota Prius V." The C-Max Energi is expected to have "miles per gallon equivalent rating in electric mode better than Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid" and travel a full 500 miles on a single tank of fuel. If so, that would eclipse the Chevrolet Volt's 310 mile range.
Press Release is on Page 2

Ford Introduces Gas-Free Focus Electric with 100+ MPGe Expected; Nearly a Third of Lineup Now Offers 40-mpg Model


Ford introduces gasoline-free 2012 Focus Electric, expected to be the first five-passenger electric vehicle with a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe)
Nearly one-third of Ford’s vehicle lines will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012
Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle to offer faster charging technology, allowing it to charge in half the time of a Nissan Leaf using 240-volt outlets
C-MAX Hybrid is projected to achieve better fuel economy than Toyota Prius v and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid projected to achieve better miles per gallon equivalent in electric mode than Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid.With the C-MAX lineup, Ford becomes the largest hybrid transmission producer in North America

Visit the Ford Electrified Vehicles Media Site for more information.
WAYNE, Mich., Dec. 14, 2011 – Ford’s world-class Michigan Assembly Plant is starting production of the 2012 Focus Electric, expected to be the first five-passenger, all-electric car to achieve more than a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) fuel efficiency rating.
Focus Electric also is the first of its kind to feature faster charging, which will halve Nissan Leaf’s time to fully recharge the battery and help drivers to more than double the expected single-charge range in a busy day of driving and recharging.
The car headlines Ford’s transformed lineup, one-third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012, building on the company’s commitment to give fuel-efficiency-minded customers the Power of Choice.
“The Focus Electric is a shining example of the leading fuel economy Ford is offering for each new vehicle,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Whether people want a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery-electric vehicle, we have a family of vehicles for them to consider, providing a range of options to best meet their needs and support their driving habits and lifestyles.”
Even with relatively stable gas prices, fuel economy is the top purchase consideration for new vehicles. Nearly 45 percent of customers say fuel economy is their top consideration based on a Ford survey of Americans in 36 cities this fall. Styling is the next consideration, with only 16 percent of study participants saying it is their top purchase driver.
Ford’s rollout of electrified vehicles began in December 2010 with the 2011 Ford Transit Connect Electric – a small commercial van built in collaboration with Azure Dynamics. Ford’s other 40-mpg vehicles include:
Focus SE
Fiesta
Focus Electric
C-MAX Hybrid
C-MAX Energi
Three vehicles yet to be announced

With 20 years of Ford research and innovation behind the software and hardware technology, the company offers proven engineering and design with Focus Electric. Ford holds approximately 500 patents on the hybrid technology used in the new Focus Electric and its other electrified vehicles.
Faster charging
Focus Electric is designed to offer enough range to cover the majority of daily driving habits of Americans. Its expected 100 MPGe is better than Chevrolet Volt and all electric vehicles with seating for five.
It will be the first electrified vehicle to offer faster charging with 240-volt outlets, which can be installed in customer homes. The battery can be recharged in just more than three hours using a 240-volt charging station, about half the charging time of the 2012 Nissan Leaf.
Faster charging with 240 volts also can extend range as drivers can more quickly recharge between stops – up to 30 miles per charge hour – so they can more than double the vehicle’s range with multiple charging stops during a busy day of driving.
A unique value charging feature, powered by Microsoft, will help owners in the U.S. charge their vehicles at the cheapest utility rates, lowering the cost of ownership.
Elec-tech
Focus Electric introduces new features and technologies – including a unique version of the MyFord Touch® driver connect system especially for electric vehicles and a smartphone app called MyFord® Mobile that helps plug-in owners control their vehicles remotely.
The sleek and stylish five-door hatchback is designed to deliver real driving enjoyment as well. The all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission provide immediate responsiveness and smooth acceleration when the driver steps on the accelerator, up to a top speed of 84 mph.
The Focus Electric is a dynamic driver’s car, sharing the steering, handling and braking feel with the agile, sporty, fuel-powered Focus models upon which it’s based. At the same time, the absence of a gasoline or diesel engine and outstanding aerodynamics lead to a remarkably quiet, comfortable in-car experience.
A limited number of Focus Electrics will first be available in California and the New York/New Jersey areas. Availability of the Focus Electric will expand in 2012 to the remaining 15 launch markets as production ramps up.
The 19 launch markets also include Atlanta; Austin and Houston, Texas; Boston; Chicago; Denver; Detroit; Los Angeles; San Francisco; San Diego; New York; Orlando, Fla.; Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz.; Portland, Ore.; Raleigh-Durham, N.C.; Richmond, Va.; Seattle; and Washington, D.C.
MAXimum efficiency
The Ford C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid are Ford’s first compact multi-activity vehicles (MAVs) in North America and offer high mileage and low emissions as well as a distinctive design and flexible interior.
The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi use the company’s next-generation powersplit hybrid technology in combination with a lighter, smaller lithium-ion battery system. Both models provide maximum fuel efficiency by pairing the high-voltage lithium-ion battery and electric traction motor with a high-efficiency Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine. This technology enables the gasoline engine to run less than the previous generation.
C-MAX Hybrid is targeted to deliver better fuel economy than the Toyota Prius v. C-MAX Energi is expected to deliver better MPGe in electric mode than the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid and to achieve more than 500 miles of driving range using the battery and engine.
The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi, like the Focus Electric, have been engineered and built to deliver engaging driving dynamics and technologies. In addition, C-MAX Energi and Focus Electric will offer MyFord Touch and MyFord Mobile, designed to make charging and driving the vehicle even more efficient, affordable and easier to live with.
Hybrid transmission leader
When C-MAX Hybrid launches, Ford becomes North America’s largest maker of hybrid transmissions.
Ford engineered the transmission and upgraded the controls with a goal of creating the industry’s highest-performing and smoothest-operating hybrid transmission. Among the hybrid transmission’s innovations:
Electric motors capable of operating at higher electric speeds
A new, super-efficient cooling system that enables higher speeds in electric drive
Optimized gear ratios enabling improvement in fuel economy
More precise controls to deliver higher levels of refinement as the powertrain transitions between engine and electric drive
Reduced weight to help increase fuel economy

This is the first hybrid transmission to be designed and built by Ford. Production is moving from a supplier in Japan to the Van Dyke Transmission Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich., which also will assemble battery packs for Ford’s hybrid and electric vehicles.
Building green vehicles cleaner
Ford completely transformed Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., into an environmentally friendly workplace with flexible manufacturing capability.
With the new electrified vehicles and the new Focus ST performance model also coming in 2012, Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant is the first facility in the world capable of building a full array of vehicles – gas-powered, EcoBoost®, electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid – all on the same production line.
The plant also features one of the largest solar power generation systems in the state as well as several electric vehicle charging stations, allowing the facility to operate on a blend of renewable and conventional electricity.
Renewable energy collected by the solar panels directly feeds the energy-efficient microgrid, helping power the plant. When the plant is inactive, such as holidays, the stored solar energy will provide power during periods of insufficient or inconsistent sunlight. Projected energy cost savings are approximately $160,000 per year.
The plant also has 10 electric vehicle charging stations that recharge the electric switcher trucks that transport parts between adjacent facilities – saving an estimated 86,000 gallons of gas a year.
Plus, 50 percent of the parts arriving for the all-new Focus are packed in cardboard, are carefully collected, sorted and recycled, as is the bubble wrap, the Styrofoam and the water bottles used by employees.
William Maley

NTSB Wants To Ban Personal Electronic Use While Driving

Yesterday, the National Transportation Safety Board recommended a nationwide ban on using any personal electronic devices while driving. The recommendation was made to all US states.
So what kind of personal electronic devices are we talking about? The NTSB’s director was specific about wanting to ban phone calls, texting, updating your status on facebook, etc. However, the director was less specific on possible provisions that would allow specific driving related uses like GPS.
NTSB cited studies regarding electronic device use while driving and accident data in it’s recommendation, stating the danger is real and the time to act is now.
The NTSB doesn’t have the power to create or enforce restrictions, it can influence federal regulators and state and local governments to create bans. Currently in the US, nine states and the District of Columbia ban talking on the phone while behind the wheel and thirty-five states ban texting while driving.
Press Release is on Page 2

No call, no text, no update behind the wheel: NTSB calls for nationwide ban on PEDs while driving


Following today's Board meeting on the 2010 multi-vehicle highway accident in Gray Summit, Missouri, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) called for the first-ever nationwide ban on driver use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) while operating a motor vehicle.
The safety recommendation specifically calls for the 50 states and the District of Columbia to ban the nonemergency use of portable electronic devices (other than those designed to support the driving task) for all drivers. The safety recommendation also urges use of the NHTSA model of high-visibility enforcement to support these bans and implementation of targeted communication campaigns to inform motorists of the new law and heightened enforcement.
"According to NHTSA, more than 3,000 people lost their lives last year in distraction-related accidents", said Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman. "It is time for all of us to stand up for safety by turning off electronic devices when driving."
"No call, no text, no update, is worth a human life."
On August 5, 2010, on a section of Interstate 44 in Gray Summit, Missouri, a pickup truck ran into the back of a truck-tractor that had slowed due to an active construction zone. The pickup truck, in turn, was struck from behind by a school bus. That school bus was then hit by a second school bus that had been following. As a result, two people died and 38 others were injured.
The NTSB's investigation revealed that the pickup driver sent and received 11 text messages in the 11 minutes preceding the accident. The last text was received moments before the pickup struck the truck-tractor.
The Missouri accident is the most recent distraction accident the NTSB has investigated. However, the first investigation involving distraction from a wireless electronic device occurred in 2002, when a novice driver, distracted by a conversation on her cell phone, veered off the roadway in Largo, Maryland, crossed the median, flipped the car over, and killed five people.
Since then, the NTSB has seen the deadliness of distraction across all modes of transportation.
In 2004, an experienced motorcoach driver, distracted on his hands-free cell phone, failed to move to the center lane and struck the underside of an arched stone bridge on the George Washington Parkway in Alexandria, Virginia. Eleven of the 27 high school students were injured;
In the 2008 collision of a commuter train with a freight train in Chatsworth, California, the commuter train engineer, who had a history of using his cell phone for personal communications while on duty, ran a red signal while texting. That train collided head on with a freight train - killing 25 and injuring dozens;
In 2009, two airline pilots were out of radio communication with air traffic control for more than an hour because they were distracted by their personal laptops. They overflew their destination by more than 100 miles, only realizing their error when a flight attendant inquired about preparing for arrival.
In Philadelphia in 2010, a barge being towed by a tugboat ran over an amphibious "duck" boat in the Delaware River, killing two Hungarian tourists. The tugboat mate failed to maintain a proper lookout due to repeated use of a cell-phone and laptop computer;
In 2010, near Munfordville, Kentucky, a truck-tractor in combination with a 53-foot-long trailer, left its lane, crossed the median and collided with a 15-passenger van. The truck driver failed to maintain control of his vehicle because he was distracted by use of his cell-phone. The accident resulted in 11 fatalities
In the last two decades, there has been exponential growth in the use of cell-phone and personal electronic devices. Globally, there are 5.3 billion mobile phone subscribers or 77 percent of the world population. In the United States, that percentage is even higher - it exceeds 100 percent.

Further, a Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study of commercial drivers found that a safety-critical event is 163 times more likely if a driver is texting, e-mailing, or accessing the Internet.
"The data is clear; the time to act is now. How many more lives will be lost before we, as a society, change our attitudes about the deadliness of distractions?" Hersman said.
A synopsis of the NTSB report, including the probable cause, findings, and a complete list of the safety recommendations, will be available online after the meeting.
The NTSB's full report will be available on the website in several weeks.
William Maley

Wonder no longer: Dodge reveals the rest of the new Dart's interior

Yesterday morning, Dodge released a few more teasers of the 2013 Dodge Dart that's set to debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show next month. The teasers didn't reveal much other than what the Dart's center IP and gauge cluster would look like.
Well, if Dodge's constant teasing is starting to bother you, there's some good news: you don't have to wait until next month to see the rest of the interior at least. Someone at Dodge saw fit to put up a rather revealing photo of the Dart's interior on their Facebook page late yesterday evening.
What we can tell from the photograph is that the ambient lighting that surrounds the gauges and center IP looks interesting and a lot of the styling elements are borrowed from the Charger. The switchgear looks nice as well. Dodge also says the glovebox will be big enough to stow an iPad away in.
As for what the outside is going to look like, well there's still about three weeks or so to go before we'll know the answer to that.
Blake Noble

Chevrolet Announces A 2.0L Turbo-4 For The Malibu

We’ve told you about the Chevrolet Malibu’s engine lineup; a 2.4L mild hybrid system in the Malibu ECO producing 180 HP and a 2.5L inline-4 producing 190 HP. Now, there’s a third engine coming to the new Malibu.
This week, General Motors announced a 2.0L Turbo-4 would be available a year after the Malibu goes on sale. GM hasn’t said anything about the engine, but we can take a guess as to what could lie under the Malibu’s hood. The Buick Regal offers two variations of a 2.0L Turbo; the Regal Turbo with 220 HP and 258 lb-ft of torque and Regal GS with 270 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque. Most likely, the Malibu will get the Regal Turbo’s setup or be somewhere in the middle.
The decision to offer a turbo-4 seems to following in the footsteps of Hyundai and Kia which both offer turbo-4s instead of V6s.
We’ll learn more about the turbo engine in the coming months.
Source: Automobile Magazine
Related:
How Much For The Chevrolet Malibu ECO?
William Maley

Viper To Begin Production In Late 2012, Drops Dodge

Chrysler has announced the next Viper will be returning home when production begins late next year. The Viper's home is the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit where it was built from 1995 to 2010. Since production of Viper ended, Conner Avenue has sat idle.
Chrysler says the reopening of Conner Avenue Assembly will bring back 150 jobs. Former employees will have first dibs on the positions before other hourly employees can apply for them.
But there also a big change with the new Viper. Since 1992, the Viper was always known as a Dodge. However in the press release, the Dodge name is only used once.
When asked about this, SRT spokesman Dan Reid said the Viper will be branded and sold as a SRT model.
Source: Automobile Magazine
Press Release is on Page 2

The Snake Returns to Chrysler Group’s Conner Avenue Assembly Plant


Conner Plant reopens to produce 2013 SRT Viper
Nearly 150 jobs to return to Detroit
New Viper to roll off the line in late 2012

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Dec 13, 2011 - Chrysler Group LLC announced today that it will reopen its Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit for the production of the next generation SRT Viper. With the plant’s reopening, nearly 150 jobs, both hourly and salaried, will return to the City of Detroit.
The Conner facility was idled when production of the Dodge Viper ended in July 2010.
“The next generation Viper will make its return to the product lineup in late 2012 as a 2013 model,” said Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer - SRT Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “We’re extremely excited that our ultimate American sports car will continue to live on and be produced exclusively here in the Motor City.”
Current Chrysler Group hourly employees who previously worked at Conner were first offered the opportunity to return to their home plant. The balance of the positions will be filled by hourly employees volunteering to transfer to the Conner Avenue plant.
Conner Avenue will begin building the new Viper in late 2012, but employees began reporting for training and orientation this fall.
In preparation for the reopening, the Conner facility will begin its transformation by implementing World Class Manufacturing (WCM), a system that is focused on reducing waste and making continuous improvements throughout the assembly process to improve quality and productivity.
Viper production began in May 1992 at the New Mack Assembly Plant, then moved to the Conner Avenue site in October 1995. All Vipers that rolled off the line were hand-built in a low-volume, modular process. Over the course of 15 years, Conner Avenue employees built about 12 vehicles a day for a total of 22,070 Vipers.
The reopening of the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant reaffirms Chrysler Group’s commitment to the City of Detroit as the only auto manufacturer with two assembly plants in the city.
William Maley

More Details On The Acura ILX

Yesterday, Acura announced they would be showing three cars at next month's Detroit Auto Show; a concept version of the NSX, a new RDX, and the ILX sedan. Now, we have learned some more information about the upcoming ILX.
As we have reported, the new ILX will be using the Honda Civic platform as base. But don't expect it to be a re-badged Acura.
"All the suspension settings will be tuned to be Acura. Consider it as different as the TL is from the Accord or the MDX is from the Pilot," said Vicki Poponi, American Honda assistant vice president for product planning.
The ILX's engine lineup will include a 2.0L direct-injection four, the 2.4L four found in the current TSX, and a 1.5L hybrid powertrain.
Acura has also announced the new ILX will be built at Honda's Greensburg, Ind., plant, which currently builds the Honda Civic.
Source: Automotive News
Press Release is on Page 2

New Acura Sedan to be Built at Award-winning Plant in Greensburg
Indiana plant to build its first Acura model - also the first ever U.S.-made hybrid model

GREENSBURG, Ind.
Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) today announced that it will be the exclusive manufacturer of the Acura ILX, an all-new luxury sedan going into mass production in Indiana in the spring of 2012. The new Acura ILX sedan will be positioned at the gateway to the Acura lineup and will be offered with both gasoline and gas-electric hybrid powertrain options. The new Acura ILX will be Acura's first-ever hybrid model, as well as the first Acura model to be produced in Indiana.
"Building this all-new Acura vehicle as the exclusive global source is a big responsibility for our associates," said HMIN President Jun Nishimoto. "I am very proud of what our Indiana team has accomplished in such a short time, and we have great confidence in our ability to produce a world-class luxury vehicle that exceeds the expectations of Acura customers."
The Acura ILX will join the TL sedan, ZDX crossover vehicle, and the MDX and RDX sport-utility vehicles as the fifth Acura model produced exclusively in North America. Acura finished second among all luxury brands in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study.
HMIN was recognized earlier this year for its outstanding quality as one of only three automobile plants globally to earn a Platinum Award for outstanding quality based on the results of J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Survey℠ (IQS). The plant recently added nearly 1,000 associates to support the move to two-shift production, which started on Oct. 24, 2011, doubling the plant's capacity to 200,000 vehicles per year. The Acura ILX will be the first hybrid vehicle to be made in America at a Honda plant. Gasoline engines for the new Acura ILX will be produced at the Anna, Ohio, engine plant of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.
Acura will unveil a concept version of the new ILX sedan at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit during media preview days, Jan. 9-10, 2012. Acura also will debut a new RDX sport-utility vehicle and a concept version of the next-generation Acura NSX supercar at the show, as it moves to further strengthen its product lineup with new products, new technologies and a sharper brand focus.
William Maley

Fisker Raises The Karma's Pricetag

If you were thinking about purchasing a new Fisker Karma, you might want to hear this.
Fisker has announced they will be increasing prices on the Karma Plug-In hybrid sedan by 6%. That means the base Karma EcoStandard model will now have a sticker price of $102,000; an increase of $6,150. The high-end EcoChic model will see a $10,000 increase to $116,000.
However, if you have put down a $5,000 deposit on the Karma, you're in luck. Fisker says for those who put a deposit down can purchase the Karma at the lower price until January 15.
This isn't the first time the Karma has seen it's price go up. Back in 2008, Fisker projected the Karma to start at $80,000. However, when the Karma finally went into production this year, the price jumped to $96,850.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

A Sneak Peak Of The Dodge Dart's Interior

Last week, Dodge showed some exterior shots of the new Dart compact car. This week, Dodge has released some interior shots of the Dart.
Dodge boasts the new Dart will have many state-of-the-art technologies and personalization options to make it stand out from the competition. The interior will have the choice of 14 interior color and trim combinations while a new 7-inch TFT customizable display sits between the tachometer and fuel gauge/PRND gages.
The Dart will also use an 8.4-inch touchscreen equipped with UConnect to control many of the Dart's functions.
Dodge says the Dart will also will come with Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection.
The Dart makes its official debut at next month's Detroit Auto Show.

Related:
Detroit 2012: The Return Of The Dart
Press Release is on Page 2

All-new 2013 Dodge Dart Interior Sets New Standard for Compact Cars


A Modern Blend of Precision Craftsmanship, State-of-the-art Technology and Safety, Exciting Bursts of Color and Hand-sculpted Shapes Create a Highly Customizable Interior
New Dodge Dart built with materials and precision craftsmanship typically found in more expensive vehicle segments
Customization is key – Dodge offers thousands of ways to personalize the Dart
Available high-tech features include class-exclusive customizable 7-inch gauge cluster, 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen, heated steering wheel and illuminated floating island bezel
Class-Leading Safety – Dodge Dart’s 10 standard airbags are unsurpassed in the compact car segment

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Dec 13, 2011 - The Dodge brand is giving a sneak peek into the high-tech, precisely crafted and highly customizable interior of its all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. Scheduled to be introduced Jan. 9 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the new Dodge Dart’s interior sets a new standard for compact cars.
Setting a New Standard – Quality & Spaciousness
Dodge designers focused on creating a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology, exciting bursts of color and hand-sculpted shapes when designing the Dart’s interior, which is made with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. Starting with modern Dodge DNA and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features, the 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with cool amenities and unexpected delights for both drivers and passengers.
The Dart’s “driver-centric” layout is designed to put all controls within easy reach of the driver. Customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats are packaged in an exceptionally spacious, pleasing interior. Packaged in the footprint of a compact car, the 2013 Dodge Dart features the interior spaciousness of a mid-sized sedan, and it boasts best-in-class hip and shoulder room.
Unmatched Customization
Customization was key in the all-new Dodge Dart’s development, and with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, six wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions, each Dodge Dart can be personalized by every buyer to fit their individual style. And the combinations are multiplied exponentially, as Mopar will also offer hundreds of customization options and themed packages specifically developed for the Dart.
Class-leading Technology
The high-tech centerpiece of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the class-exclusive floating island bezel, which houses the segment-exclusive available 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround that also houses the available class-exclusive UConnect Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia center -- the largest touch-screen in its class.
Thoughtful storage options throughout fit today’s technology. The glove box easily conceals a stowed iPad; the center console features auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices, and thoughtful, inventive storage solutions, such as console map pockets, which are perfect for storing mobile phones, receipts, or pen and paper.
Lighting in all the right places provides drivers and passengers a warm, comfortable cockpit. Available “racetrack” lighting surrounds the floating island bezel. Ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders is both useful and provides a warm atmosphere inside the vehicle.
Unmatched Safety
Safety was also at the forefront in the development of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. Built on a strong foundation, constructed with 68 percent high-strength steel, engineers added both active and passive safety features, including 10 standard airbags, which is unsurpassed in the segment. The 2013 Dodge Dart is also the only car in its class to offer blind spot monitoring and rear cross path detection.
William Maley

Detroit 2012: Bentley's New Twin Turbo V8

Bentley has new engine they'll be showing at next month's Detroit Auto Show. The engine is a new 4.0L Twin Turbo V8 that was jointly developed with Audi. The 4.0L V8 produces 500 HP and 487 lb-ft of torque. The twin-turbo V8 will lie under the hood of Bentley's Continental GT Coupe and GT Convertible.
The V8 Continentals will differentiate from their W12 brethren with minor tweaks to the exterior which include different exhaust tips, red enamel Bentley badges, black gloss matrix grille, chrome frame and center bar.
So why is Bentley offering a V8 variant? Fuel Economy. Bentley says the V8 gets 40% better fuel economy due to the engine using cylinder deactivation, direct injection, stop-start technology, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Bentley hasn't released the EPA numbers, but estimates have the V8 at 25 MPG.

Press Release is on Page 2

THE NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL V8 RANGE


New Continental GT and GTC V8 models will debut at the North American International Auto Show, Detroit (January 2012)
Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio combined with classic Bentley power and torque from new 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine
Fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to a new powertrain delivering a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions
Advanced technologies include direct injection, variable displacement, new close-ratio 8-speed transmission and all wheel-drive
New Continental V8 model range complements the flagship 6.0 litre W12 GT and GTC

(Crewe 12th December, 2011) Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on 9th January 2012.
The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.
This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp (507PS/373Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a sub-5 second acceleration time for the 0-60 mph (0-100km/h) sprint and a top speed of over 180mph (290km/h).
At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800km) on a single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.
The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.
The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.
The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.
The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.
The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. Expressing their potent, muscular character, these models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.
At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’ bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s.
Both models are specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with an optional 21-inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.
Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.
The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre,12-cylinder engined Continental GT and GTC, which continue to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631bhp (640PS).
Both new models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.
Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley’s factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley’s engineering strength.
Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors said:
“With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine will have all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic ‘wave of torque’. This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions.”

THE NEW CONTINENTAL V8 MODELS


Distinctive sporting style
Gloss black matrix grille with bright chrome surround and divider
Three-segment lower bumper with black air intakes and striking body-coloured dividers
Dark rear lower valance
Distinctive twin ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes
Red enamel Bentley winged ‘B’ badges above the front grille, to the bootlid and wheel centres
7 exterior colours offered in standard range

Sporty, contemporary interior
New Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneer unique to the V8 models
Eliade cloth headlining and pillar trim
Short centre console in place of W12 through-console
4 hide colours offered in standard range
Unique two-tone leather colour split
3 hood colours (Continental GTC)

Exhilarating, efficient new 4.0 litre V8 engine
Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio reflecting engine efficiency
Variable displacement (a technology first proven on the Mulsanne) imperceptibly cuts 4 cylinders on cruise and light throttle
Switchable engine mounts ensure refinement
Engine optimisation technologies boost efficiency
New, close-ratio, 8-speed transmission offers 6 per cent efficiency gain with ultra-fast shifts
Turbochargers mounted within ‘V’ for efficiency and fast response
Over 500 miles (800km) range on one tank of fuel
Distinctive V8 growl
All-wheel drive system with 40:60 rear biased torque split

William Maley

Why Hello Mercedes-Benz SL *UPDATED*

Automakers are having a tough time trying to keep their new cars under wraps till the day they're ready to announce. Such is the case of Mercedes-Benz which had their latest SL leak onto the internet.
The pictures are suspected to be from a brochure and show the SL from the front and rear, along with the top up and down. The overall shape comes from the SLS AMG supercar and SLK roadster. We also see a shot of the interior as well, decked out in various shades of black and white.
We know the next SL will lose a bit of weight thanks to the extensive use of aluminum in the body. No one knows what will lie under the hood of the SL, but expect a V8 and V12.
UPDATE: Earlier Today, German Car Forum unleashed a massive stash of official SL pictures. Gallery has been update with the new pictures.

Source: Autoblog.nl, German Car Forum
William Maley

Rumorpile: GM & BMW To Cooperate On Fuel Cells?

Back in September, we reported that GM and BMW were in talks about an alliance. The possible alliance would have General Motors looking at BMW's lineup of gas and diesel engines, while BMW is looking at the Voltec powertrain. Now, a report from German business magazine Wirtschaftswoche says there could be more to this alliance.
Wirtschaftswoche reports the two are in talks about jointly developing fuel cell technology for vehicles. The plan would allow BMW to access GM's fuel cell tech. In return, BMW would help pay research costs.
When asked about this, a BMW spokesman said,
"We are speaking to GM about various future technologies but we are not saying anything more beyond that."
GM declined to comment.
Source: Reuters
Related:
Rumorpile: GM & BMW To Team Up?
William Maley

Detroit 2012: Honda Accord Coupe Concept

Today, Honda revealed they will bring a Accord Coupe concept to next month's Detroit Auto Show. The concept will "reveal the styling direction" of the next Accord - due out in Fall 2012. This will mark the Accord's ninth generation and 36th year of being on sale.
Honda says the production model Accord will a "dynamic and aggressive profile." Whether that pans out or not, we shall see.
Press Release is on Page 2

2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept to Make World Debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show


12/11/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif. -- A concept vehicle revealing the styling direction of the next-generation Honda Accord Coupe will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show January 10, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.
The Accord Coupe Concept will convey the dynamic and aggressive profile of the ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord set to go on sale in the fall of 2012. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales, will introduce the concept vehicle at a press conference, which will also be broadcast live via webcast at http://hondanews.com/live/2012naias-honda (link will be live Jan. 10).
A leader in style, performance, safety, efficiency and value since the introduction of the first generation model in 1976, the Accord remains one of the best-selling cars in America. The 2012 Accord was recently named to Car and Driver Magazine's '10Best' list for a record 26th time and was ranked as having the highest initial quality in its segment in the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The introduction of the ninth-generation Accord marks 30 years of U.S. production of the model at the Marysville Auto Plant in Marysville, Ohio, the first Japanese car assembly plant in the U.S.
William Maley

Acura: Three For Detroit, One For New York

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 12, 2011
Acura is bringing forth four vehicles to be shown at Detroit and New York auto shows in 2012.
For Detroit, Acura has confirmed a NSX concept will be shown. Not much about the concept is known, but it's expected to come with a V6 Hybrid powertrain, a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, and AWD system.
Also coming to Detroit is a new compact luxury sedan, named the ILX and will compete with BMW 1-Series, Lexus CT200h, and Mercedes A-Class. The ILX will be based on the Honda Civic and have the choice of a 2.0-liter inline four or an optional hybrid drivetrain.
The third vehicle is a new RDX that will drop the turbo-4 and introduce a V6 to up fuel economy.
And for New York will be the new RL. Acura officals say the new RL will provide cabin space of a BMW 7 Series sedan with the agility of a 5 Series. Two powertrains will be available; a new V6 and a V6 hybrid system with all-wheel drive.
The new RL signals a new strategy for Acura to help differentiate their sedan lineup; the TSX, the TL and the RL. Acura officials say the three sedans are "too close in size."
"We will ultimately have three sizes of sedan — entry luxury, mid luxury and high luxury," an Acura product planning executive told Inside Line.
Source: Autoblog, Left Lane News, Inside Line
Press Release is on Page 2

Acura to Debut Three New Vehicles at the 2012 North American International Auto Show


Acura announced today that it will unveil three all-new vehicles at the 2012 North American International Auto Show including an all-new compact sports sedan, a redesigned RDX crossover sport utility vehicle, and a concept version of the next generation Acura NSX super car.
The Acura ILX Concept is a styling study of an all-new luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in spring 2012. To be positioned at the gateway to the Acura lineup, the ILX will feature three powertrains including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid. Acura also will unveil a prototype of the 2013 RDX, the second generation of Acura's five-passenger SUV. Finally, Acura will debut the NSX Concept, which represents the styling direction for the next generation of Acura's super sports car.
"Acura has a steady cadence of exciting new models coming to market and it will all begin in Detroit," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura sales and service. "From the all-new Acura ILX at the gateway of the lineup to the pinnacle of performance with the Acura NSX Concept, Acura vehicles are being created for luxury customers who aspire to the highest levels of quality and value, with beautiful styling and the right balance of technology, performance and environmental responsibility."
All three vehicles will be introduced at the North America International Auto Show on January 9, 2012. The press conference will be webcast live on www.acuranews.com.
William Maley

2012 Volkswagen Beetle Turbo

The 2012 Jetta GLI went back and we were supposed to get a Passat in its place. However, the Passat encountered some unfortunate incident in the hands of another journalist so instead Volkswagen sent us this 2012 Beetle Turbo with DSG and Navigation.
So far I've done almost entirely city driving in the Beetle and while the DSG is very smooth above first, I'm finding it a little jerky in stop and go city traffic. After you get it out of crawling speed, the DSG opens the Beetle's wings and allows incredibly smooth and fast shifting in either direction. In regular drive mode and normal city speeds, the DSG does its best to keep the RPM below 2,000 at all time. Switching to sport mode raises the imaginary line to 3,000. You can rev the engine higher than that, but in normal driving, it is completely unnecessary. When prodded, the Beetle will break its front tires loose pretty easily in first and second gear.
I was seeing some pretty great highway economy numbers out of the Jetta GLI with this same engine but a 6-speed manual. During my time with the Beetle, I will be driving 90% of the route that I took the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco on and again I will be loaded down with gear. Because the Beetle has a larger engine with 62 more horsepower and 52 more lb-ft of torque, I don't expect the Beetle Turbo to match the Cruze's 51mpg I saw on that trip. The Beetle Turbo is rated at 22/30 city/highway but my guess is that I'll be able to beat that number after seeing what the Jetta GLI was able to do.
The looks are far more masculine than the first generation Beetle, and I'm getting a lot of stop and stare as I drive by.
But now I have to get on the road. Leave your questions in the comments section for this 2012 Volkswagen Beetle Turbo.

Drew Dowdell

BMW Joins The 4-Door Coupe Craze With The 6 Series Gran Sport

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 10, 2011
It seems every automaker is introducing four-door coupe. Within the past few years Mercedes has introduced the CLS, Volkswagen with the CC, Porsche and the beluga whale or Panamera, and Audi with the A7. Now, BMW has introduced their four-door coupe; the 6 Series Grand Sport.
The 6 Series Grand Sport started life as a concept at the 2010 Beijing Motor Show and is almost a direct copy of the concept. As the name implies, the four-door coupe is based on the 6 Series coupe, but is stretched a full 4.4 inches, meaning more space for back passengers.
Power will come from two engines; a 3.0L turbocharged inline six, good for 315 HP and 330 lb-ft of torque and a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 good for 445 HP and 480 lb-ft. Both engines go through a ZF eight-speed transmission to either the rear-wheels or xDrive AWD system.
Step inside and your greeted with a very luxurious and tech laden cabin that includes iDrive and a heads-up display. BMW says the 6 Series Grand Sport has a 4+1 seating configuration, meaning there is a "middle seat" in the back.
The first public outing of the 6 Series Gran Sport will be the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Press Release is on Page 2
The All-New 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.
An exciting new addition to the 6 Series Line.
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – December 11, 2011 6:00 pm EST … Introducing the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe – a new 4-door, 4+1 seat addition to the 6 Series line that successfully combines the stunning proportions, design and driving dynamics of the 6 Series Coupe with interior room and amenities for up to five passengers. Harmonious proportions, precise lines and sleekly contoured surfaces give the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe the unique ability to satisfy the driver who wants a luxurious and sporty coupe yet needs a car capable of carrying four adults in comfort and luxury. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be offered as three distinct models in the USA. The TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder powered 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe is the initial model and arrives early this summer. Later in the summer, the TwinPower Turbo V-8 powered 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe and the all-wheel drive 2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe will join the range.
Sporting a length of 197 inches (5,007 mm) and wheelbase of 116.8 inches (2,968 mm), the Gran Coupe is 4.4 inches (111 mm) longer than its 2-door coupe sibling. A significant part of this extra length has been used to enhance seating comfort for the rear passengers. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is also 74.6 inches (1,894 mm) wide and stands 54.8 inches (1,392 mm) in height. For comparison purposes, the Gran Coupe is 4.0 inches (102mm) longer, 1.3 inches (34mm) wider and 2.8 inches (72mm) lower than the BMW 550i.
The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, in keeping with the tradition of the 6 Series Coupe, offers a unique combination of top-class sporting dynamics, stunning design, luxurious touring comfort and a 16.24 cu. ft (460-liter) DIN luggage compartment – now for four passengers. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe’s signature driving experience is complimented by a range of innovative driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive infotainment features. The new car therefore meets the highest expectations of driving pleasure and style in a large, premium 4-seat sports coupe.
Its unmistakable design language gives the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe an aura of athletic elegance. The long powerfully contoured hood, short front overhang and set-back passenger compartment team up with a 4.4 inch (111 mm) increase in body length over the 6 Series Coupe and a 4.5 inch (113 mm) longer wheelbase present a fresh take on the hallmark proportions of a BMW automobile. The Gran Coupe’s distinctive profile is dominated by its four-door, elegantly stretched roof line which flows smoothly into the rear end, is a similarly eye-catching and distinctive feature of the new model’s silhouette.
The innovations in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe also extend to lighting technology, in the shape of optional Adaptive LED Headlights. Their bright white light provides an extremely intense and evenly spread illumination of the road. This technology is unparalleled in the segment and also allows the beam of the headlights to follow the curves of the road.
Other features that set the new car apart from its rivals are the BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems and mobility services. The rear-view camera, Surround View, Parking Assistant, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning System and Active Blind Spot Detection are joined on the list of available equipment items by the new generation of the BMW Head-Up-Display. The latest incarnation of the system uses a full spectrum of colors to display the information projected onto the windshield. The standard BMW iDrive control system is the operating portal for the navigation, communications and infotainment functions. The high definition, trans-reflective technology Control Display is centrally mounted high on the sweeping dash and emulates a freestanding flatscreen. Finally, the optional Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System provides a feast of aural pleasure seldom experienced inside a car.
The BMW 640i Gran Coupe arrives in US BMW Centers early this summer and will be followed by the 650i Gran Coupe and 650i xDrive Gran Coupe in late summer. Retail and option pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
Upgraded TwinPower Turbo 6-Cylinder powers the 640i Gran Coupe.
The inline 6-cylinder engine (N55HP) in the new BMW 640i Gran Coupe will impress performance-minded drivers with its effortless power, exceptionally fast-revving temperament, outstanding refinement and exceptional fuel efficiency. The N55 has been setting standards from the start, as the pioneer of a new generation of engines in which BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing plus a twin scroll turbo made its debut.
Thanks to intensive fine-tuning of the engine, BMW’s engineers have managed to extract additional performance from the engine while maintaining its exceptional fuel efficiency. With a maximum power rating of 225 kW/315 hp at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm, the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine reflects the sporty personality of the BMW 640i Gran Coupe and helps this automobile deliver brilliant performance. The high peak torque of 330 lb-ft, on stream between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm, ensures that the power is effortlessly and instantly delivered.
As a result, the 640i Gran Coupe can show off its prowess with a 0 to 62 mph (0-100km/h) sprint time of just 5.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically governed at 155 mph (250 km/h). All this extra performance comes with exceptional fuel economy and low emission figures. Fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is rated at 7.8 l/100km (30.1 mpg). EPA fuel economy ratings will be available closer to the on-sale date in the USA.
BMW’s widely lauded TwinPower Turbo V-8 engine is updated with more performance and more efficiency in the 650i Gran Coupe.
The 4.4-liter V-8 engine (N63) that powers the current 650i models receives an upgrade for the new 650i Gran Coupe. The unique “reverse-flow” engine, whose two turbochargers are positioned in the V-area between the cylinder banks is well known for producing an instantaneous and sustained wave of power, making it a delight for the enthusiast driver. This new version of the engine adds BMW’s VALVETRONIC variable valve timing to the list of specifications. As a result, the new version of the engine (N63Tü) develops a maximum 445 hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm (a 45 hp increase), and makes peak torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm (a 30 lbs-ft increase).
The new BMW 650i Gran Coupe completes the sprint from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100km/h) in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. This engine also boasts extraordinary efficiency for a model in its output class. Its average fuel consumption lies between 8.6 and 8.8 l/100km (26.7-27.3 mpg), (provisional figures according to EU test cycle depending on tire options). EPA fuel economy ratings will be available closer to the on-sale date in summer 2012.
When the V8 is combined with the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, its power is converted into even more intense and dynamic acceleration. The electronically controlled power split between the front and rear wheels optimizes not only traction and stability, whatever the weather and road surface conditions may be, but also the agility of the Gran Coupe 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, whose sprint time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is just 4.5 seconds.
8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission.
The 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe boasts a perfect combination of speed, flexibility, sportiness, and efficiency. What sets it apart are its minimal torque converter slip and rapid gear changes. An innovative gear set configuration allows this transmission to offer eight gears, maximizing acceleration at any road speed, yet allowing the driver to conserve fuel by cruising at low revs. Befitting the Gran Coupe’s sporting character, the driver can choose to select gears manually via shift paddles on the standard Sport leather steering wheel.
In addition to the efficiency of the engine and 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission, an extensive range of BMW EfficientDynamics measures contribute to reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Brake Energy Regeneration, engine Auto Start-Stop, on-demand operation of ancillary components, intelligent lightweight construction and extensive aerodynamic refinement collaborate to ensure maximum efficiency.
Chassis Management and optional Integral Active Steering.
Cutting-edge chassis technology gives the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe the tools to provide both sporty handling and exceptional comfort. The double wishbone front axle and the multi-link rear axle are made predominantly from aluminum. The chassis is geared to the requirements of drivers with sporting intentions, although the dampers also respond sensitively to bumps in the road surface under high lateral acceleration. The optional Active Roll Stabilization combines with the standard Dynamic Damper Control to offer the driver even more precise responses and perfectly flat cornering ability. The electronically controlled shock absorbers adapt to the road surface and the driver’s style to perfectly control the car’s body motions.
The electronically controlled damper system in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe adjusts compression and rebound settings continuously and independently. For example, a stiff chassis setting can be combined with comfortable responses to unevenness in the road surface. The control unit of the damping system processes the data supplied by sensors on the vertical motion of the wheels as well as the ride height of the car. The driving speed and the damper setting chosen by the driver are also taken into account in calculating the damping force required for each individual wheel to even out body movements. This data is fed back to the shock-absorber units at intervals of just 2.5 milliseconds.
The optional Active Roll Stabilization feature reduces body roll in corners and in sudden changes of direction, or transitions. Sensors calculate the amount of body roll based on the driving situation at hand, and this is then counteracted quickly and precisely by hydraulic rotary actuators in the front and rear anti-roll bars. The result is flatter cornering inspiring greater confidence for the driver as well as greater comfort for the passengers during spirited drives. The power steering features standard Servotronic vehicle-speed sensitive assistance, and serves up the familiar BMW recipe of precision, comfort and linear response.
The Gran Coupe is also available with Integral Active Steering. This system (also available on the 6 Series Coupe and Convertible) combines the Active Steering system for the front axle with a steerable rear axle. Precisely harmonized steering angle movements at both axles create a virtual lengthening or shortening of the vehicle’s wheelbase, which fosters both greater high-speed stability and enhanced maneuverability for parking and city use.
Brakes, Wheels, and Tires.
The lightweight floating-caliper brakes feature vented discs and Dynamic Stability Control. DSC brings together technology such as the Anti-lock Braking System, Dynamic Traction Control, Cornering Brake Control, Dynamic Brake Control, the Start-off Assistant, the automatic Brake Drying function and Brake Fade Compensation. Standard equipment also includes 8.0 x18-inch light-alloy wheels, with all-season runflat tires (size 245/45 R18) and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Driving Dynamics Control with ECO PRO mode:
Extra-sporty to the most fuel-efficient driving modes – at the press of a button.
The new 6 Series Gran Coupe offers impressive driving dynamics combined with new standards of comfort in the premium segment. This is a result of superbly tuned suspension which achieves an astonishing balance between dynamics and comfort. On top of this, drivers are also able to vary the overall character of the car depending on the driving situation or to suit their personal preferences. As well as sportier or more comfortable drive settings, they can also opt for extra fuel efficiency. The different modes are selected using the new Driving Dynamics Control function including ECO PRO mode, which is standard on all 6 Series models. The driver can choose settings of COMFORT+, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and ECO PRO modes using the large rocker switch on the center console. Affected parameters include the tuning of the throttle response, power steering boost assistance, shock absorbers, automatic transmission shift characteristics and – if equipped - roll stabilization and Integral Active Steering. In SPORT+ mode, the Dynamic Traction Control mode of the standard Dynamic Stability Control system is activated, raising the thresholds for stability intervention in the most sport-oriented driving circumstances.
The new ECO PRO mode, meanwhile, supports an extra-efficient and economy-conscious driving style. It does this by changing the accelerator mapping so that the same pedal travel delivers less power than in the standard mode. Also in this mode, the automatic transmission control strategy is modified so as to upshift sooner and to delay downshifts, while intelligent energy and climate management reduces the mechanical power consumption and also the consumption of electrical systems such as heated mirrors and seats. But the biggest potential for improving fuel economy comes from the driver’s own personal driving habits. Special displays in the instrument cluster let the driver know by how much the driving range is being extended, show fuel consumption history, or, with reference to the specific driving situation, provide tips and incentives on how to develop a more economy-conscious driving style. ECO PRO mode allows average fuel consumption to be reduced by up to 20%, with a corresponding increase in driving range.
Design: Athletic elegance, natural sportiness.
The new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe again heralds the arrival of an exceptionally sporty and exclusive 4-seater in the premium coupe segment. The new model’s extra length and width over its 2 door model combine with its low height (2.8 inches lower than a 5 Series) to produce a strikingly low-set and powerful design. This new interpretation of the traditional BMW Coupe proportions is embellished by lines and surfaces inspired by the movement of waves. Flowing lines and harmonious curves create a feeling of athletic grace which underline the opulent character and elegant appearance of the four-door BMW.
The expressive front end is dominated by the large and slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille. The grille emphasizes the car’s sporting pedigree with a broad, flat design, and creates a visual connection with the engine nestling behind. The kidney grille slats, angled slightly towards the top, lend additional emphasis to the front end’s “shark nose” character. The contour lines of the hood converge towards the kidney grille, forming a V-shape which is continued by the contours of the headlights, kidney and wide air intake to give a road-focused look.
Powerfully flared wheel arches and the LED foglamps, placed well to the outside, accentuate the width of the front end. The lower air intake is split into three sections by model-specific L-shaped electroplated bars, which pick up the contours of the hood lines and BMW kidney grille to add extra intensity to the road-focused stance of the front end.
High-visibility innovation: Adaptive LED Headlights.
The new Gran Coupe is equipped with Adaptive Xenon headlights as standard. An accentuating trim element cuts across the top of the hallmark BMW twin round headlights to produce the purposeful look familiar from other BMW models. The optional Adaptive LED Headlights provide a fresh take on this established feature. The Adaptive LED Headlights for low beam and high beam contain LED light rings for the parking lights and daytime running lights, which are flattened on the lower edge and overlapped at their top edge by an accent light – also featuring LEDs. The result is a stunning, distinctively BMW showcase for the innovative light technology. In addition, they also generate the low beam and high beam light from the two light rings. The light sources are horizontal LED ribs positioned in the center of the light rings. The brand’s hallmark twin round headlight look is therefore expressed even more strikingly - not only with the daytime running lights switched on, but also when the headlights are activated in the dark.
However, the Adaptive LED Headlights are about more than just looking good; they also ensure the driver has optimum visibility. Their bright white light provides a bright and even illumination of the road ahead. From a color perspective, the light comes much closer to natural daylight than that created by conventional halogen or xenon headlights, lending even reflective objects far greater contrast. The cornering element of the Adaptive LED Headlights is also tailored to the car’s speed, steering angle and yaw rate, allowing the pivot of the headlights to adapt automatically to the line of the corner. Meanwhile, a light source positioned specially in the headlight housing generates the cornering light which, at low speeds, ensures illumination of the road surface in the direction the car is turning. LED technology is also deployed for the turn signal indicators, each of which consists of eight LED units arranged in a row underneath the light rings. As well as enhancing visibility in the dark, the Adaptive LED Headlights also significantly improve the signaling effect of the car’s lights.
Side view: Elegant roofline, powerfully curved surfaces.
With its long, powerfully contoured hood, set-back passenger compartment, long wheelbase and short overhangs, the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe presents a fresh take on the hallmark BMW proportions. The Gran Coupe’s distinctive appearance is dominated by its four-door layout, longer wheelbase than other BMW 6 Series models and likewise longer passenger compartment. The low, elegantly stretched roof line, which flows smoothly into the rear end, is a similarly eye-catching and distinctive feature of the new model’s silhouette.
The combination of sportiness, style and luxury is particularly clear when viewed from the side. Longer side window surfaces than those found on the two-door BMW 6 Series models hint at the extra space available in the rear compartment. Side windows extending far back into the C-pillar give the passenger compartment the low-slung, stretched look typical of Coupes. The more generous greenhouse also allow light to flood the interior, further enhancing the feeling of space inside and all-round visibility for the rear passengers. High-quality Chrome Line Exterior surrounds for the side windows complement the coupe style window line. The hallmark BMW Hofmeister kink at the transition to the C-pillar is given an extra touch of style in the form of etched “Gran Coupe” model lettering set against a sporty texture in the rear section of the side window.
Powerfully flowing surfaces – which open out as they extend back from the front end and stretch over the full length of the body before feeding into the muscular rear end – give the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe a naturally sporty look. The character line streaming out from the gill on the front wheel arch takes in the door handle and runs the full length of the car, emphasizing the athletic elegance of its side view. Around the rear wheels, the surfaces below the character line push outwards, enhancing the impression of a powerful car with a strong, assured stance on the road. Plus, the light surfaces generated above the rear wheel arches draw further attention to the wide track and the power being channelled through the rear wheels.
Another character line, emerging from the curvature of the front wheel arch, drops down between the gill feature and the door, before levelling out and extending horizontally to the rear. The unbroken shadow surface above the side sill emphasises the car’s muscular stance from the side.
The rear-end design: horizontal lines and clean surfaces.
Clearly structured surfaces and horizontal lines add further presence to the car’s powerful rear end, which acts as a pointer to the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe’s impressive roadholding and the sporting nature of the vehicle concept as a whole. The lines of the rear end become noticeably broader as they blend into the wheel arches bulge. All of which gives the rear view an extremely low visual center of gravity. The conspicuously flared wheel arches spotlight the car’s wide track and underline the horizontally structured character of the rear. The trunk lid and rear fascia both have flatter surfacing than their counterparts on the other BMW 6 Series models. The more clearly sculpted sill emphasises the overall volume of the rear end and brings striking details such as the rear lights and exhaust tailpipes more clearly into view.
The two-part, L-shaped rear lights share the contours of the car’s BMW 6 Series siblings and each use a pair of LED light strips to generate the distinctive night-time look of a BMW. The third brake light is integrated into the roof and stretches the full length of the rear window.
Interior with BMW’s traditional driver-oriented cockpit.
The interior of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe reveals the driver-focused cockpit design typical of the brand and a luxurious ambience for all those on board. The central section of the instrument panel is angled slightly towards the driver and the gear selector for the automatic gearbox, the Driving Experience Control switch and the activation button for the parking brake are all positioned on the surface of the center console which opens out towards the driver.
The standard Navigation System Professional and iDrive operating system come with 10.2-inch high definition display bordered by a galvanised chrome surround.
Long horizontal lines extending all the way through the interior of the
BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe create a visual link with the second row of seats, emphasising the size of the interior. The elegant lines of the door trim, familiar from the other BMW 6 Series models, continue into the rear compartment, incorporating the B-pillar as a design element along the way. The sweeping design of the door panels flows harmoniously from the front doors via the B-pillars to the rear doors. The center console also stretches through to the rear. Precise contours help to create an intriguing contrast with the interior’s soft, curvaceous surfaces, producing a vibrant and dynamic collage of forms.
The waistline surfaces of the doors form a subtly dynamic wedge shape, which extends into the luggage compartment cover. The dynamic character of the door surface design generates a feeling of depth which envelops the passengers in their seats, while the interplay of convex and concave surfaces evokes a sense of exclusive security.
Sporting Character and generous rear space.
The interior of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe offers a driving experience defined by sportiness and luxury, and enhanced by a specially generated ambience. The line of the roof pillars reproduces the car’s arching roof form inside the car. In the rear compartment, the enveloping interior typical of a Coupe and comfortable seats offer excellent lateral support combined with generous freedom of movement and good visibility out of the car.
Its interior offers individually tailored seats for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. High-quality materials, carefully coordinated colors and meticulously sculpted surfaces combine to produce an ambience defined by luxury, sweeping style and Teutonic functionality. A hallmark BMW element of the interior design is the driver-oriented cockpit layout. The central section of the instrument panel, containing the iDrive system’s Central Display, the air vents and the controls for the audio system and air conditioning, are all angled slightly towards the driver. Added to which, the gearshift lever and the switches for the parking brake and Driving Dynamics Control are located on a surface that opens out towards the driver and is set lower than the front passenger side of the center console.
The front passenger area is bordered by a surface curving elegantly from the armrest over the side edge of the center console, upwards and outwards into the instrument panel and then horizontally into the door trim. This provides a harmonious surround for the front passenger area, creating a feeling of exclusive security. The contour of the rear waistline surface, which extends slightly into the interior between the head restraints, highlights the individual seat layout of the rear.
The black-panel instrument cluster of the Gran Coupe combines the traditional sports car circular instruments with state-of-the-art display technology. The Navigation system, telephone and entertainment functions are operated using the iDrive control system, whose Central Display boasts an innovative design. The on-board monitor takes the form of a freestanding display with a flatscreen look. The high definition display measures 10.2 inches across and features a high-quality galvanized chrome surround. The shallow depth of the display gives it a modern character. Trans-reflective technology ensures the display remains easy-to-read in bright sunlight. The new arrangement of the Central Display – which now reaches further into the passenger compartment –influences the architecture of the instrument panel, which rises steeply in front of the driver and front passenger. This impression is further enhanced by the structure of the door trim panels. Their surfaces have a powerfully taut look and, like the black waistline surface, pull in and rise up to create a smooth transition into the instrument panel, giving the interior the effect of wrapping around the driver and front passenger.
The optional Luxury Seating Package adds ventilated multi-contour, active seats, sunshades on both the rear side and rear windows and a four zone climate control system with additional controls located between the rear seats. While the Gran Coupe is primarily designed as a four seater, a fifth person can be accommodated in the rear compartment.
The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe can be ordered in a choice of nine metallic exterior paint shades and three non-metallic colors. Other exclusive paint finishes are available as part of the BMW Individual range and in conjunction with the M Sport package. The colors and materials available for the interior, meanwhile, have been selected to enhance the feeling of elegant sportiness and luxury, and can be tailored to the customer’s personal style. The standard Dakota leather can be ordered in a choice of three colors, the optional Exclusive Nappa leather is available in four different shades and extended Merino leather is available in five varieties (in combination with the Individual Composition or M Sport Packages). The instrument panel, door trim and center console are also finished in Nappa leather with contrasting stitching when the Nappa Leather option is selected. Customers can also choose from four interior trim variants and optional ceramic applications for the gear selector, iDrive Controller and other controls. Additional exclusive trims are available as part of the BMW Individual range and in conjunction with the M Sport package.
M Sport package and BMW Individual range available from launch.
An M Sport package developed specially for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is available from the launch of the new car. Among the features included are an M aerodynamics package with uniquely designed front fascia, side skirts and rear fascia. The M Sport package also includes exhaust tips in black chrome, black-painted brake callipers, LED foglamps, a sports exhaust system for the BMW 650i Gran Coupe and 19-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design. 20-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design are also available as a package upgrade. Customers ordering the M Sport package may also opt for the M paint finishes Carbon Black metallic and Imola Red non-metallic.
The sporting theme continues inside the car in the form of special M Alcantara/leather sports seats with blue contrast stitching, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles, and aluminium hexagon interior trim. Plus, the M Sport package adds door sill finishers sporting the M logo and an M driver’s footrest to the mix.
Also available from launch is the BMW Individual range of products, which allows customers to tailor the exterior and interior of their BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe precisely and exclusively to their personal style. The four BMW Individual paint shades are joined in the range by BMW Individual special paint finishes and a selection of matt paint finishes. For example, the BMW Individual matt finish Frozen Bronze metallic is available exclusively for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design can be specified in 19 and 20-inch format. Those looking to give the interior of their car a particularly exclusive aura, meanwhile, may like to add BMW Individual fine-grain Merino full leather trim, an Alcantara BMW Individual roof liner, BMW Individual interior strips and the BMW Individual wood inlay for the steering wheel.
One of the highlights of the BMW Individual range of interior options is the Opal White full-leather trim specially developed for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, combined with the interior color Amaro Brown. Here, the leather-covered instrument panel and Alcantara BMW Individual roof liner are also presented in Amaro Brown. The selection of materials, combinations of colors and a quality of workmanship showcase the exclusive character of the BMW Individual range. White contrast stitching for the instrument panel, armrest and door trim match the Opal White seats and door panels, while Amaro Brown seat stitching and piping complements the effect on the seats and door panels. In addition, BMW Individual Ash Grain White fine wood trim adds a particularly high-quality touch to the interior and fits in seamlessly with the overall color concept.
All the items in the BMW Individual range can also be ordered as individual options. And the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is also available with a BMW Individual composition of products in a perfectly judged combination of colors and materials.
New lightweight technology, comprehensive safety equipment.
The new BMW Gran Coupe is fitted with newly developed lightweight seats with an integrated seatbelt system and standard 20-way multi-contour adjustability and adjustable lumbar support. Optionally, the Luxury Seating Package adds front multi-Contour ventilated seats and active fatigue reduction feature. All seat variants come with crash-activated anti-whiplash head restraints.
The range of standard safety equipment also includes front airbags, head-thorax side airbags integrated into the seat frame, three-point automatic belts for all seats, belt force limiters and front belt pre-tensioners and ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear.
Carefully researched advances in materials and development of the car’s load-bearing structure have significantly enhanced the body’s construction in terms of the agility and safety it offers. In the interests of perfect balance, the doors, hood and front spring mounts are all aluminum, while the front fenders and trunklid are made from reinforced composite.
Cutting-edge features from BMW ConnectedDrive.
The new BMW 650i Coupe is available with a great variety of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. The comprehensive Driver Assistance Package includes Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Rear and Top View cameras, Parking Assistant, and the new three-dimensional, full-color Head-Up Display that premiered in the 6 Series Convertible last year. Also available are BMW’s Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection and Active Cruise Control with stop-and-go capability.
HiFi stereo system.
The standard HiFi audio system in the new Gran Coupe comes with an HD Radio receiver, MP3-compatible CD drive, AUX-IN connection, and a HiFi loudspeaker system with nine speakers. The available Premium Sound Package adds SiriusXM satellite radio with a 1-year subscription, iPod and USB adapter, and the Premium HiFi system comprised of 12 loudspeakers and a digital amplifier. It features DIRAC signal processing and model-specific equalizing.
Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System delivers an unparalleled audio experience.
When it comes to delivering audio pleasure of the highest order, the Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System designed especially for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe hits all the right notes. Jointly developed by the Danish audio specialists and BMW, this system produces an exceptionally natural sound from 16 speakers distributed around the cabin. It is a fully active system featuring digital signal processing, which means the two bass speakers, seven mid-range speakers and seven tweeters all have individual amplifiers. This technology enables the targeted modification of any sound reflections inside the vehicle. The Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System uses Dirac Dimensions™ technology to recreate the acoustics of a reference listening room in the passenger compartment. All vehicle occupants therefore enjoy the same high-quality sound stage wherever they are sitting.
The electrical signals are converted into precisely defined sound waves using neodymium magnet drivers, and the mid-range speakers feature extremely stiff Hexacone diaphragms. The outstanding quality of the Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System is underlined by exclusive design features. The form and color of the advanced all-aluminum speaker grilles have been tailored precisely to the interior design of the new Gran Coupe. The special perforation pattern of the grilles is created using a very sophisticated drilling technique. The grille mounts are not visible from the outside, ensuring that the grilles stand out from their surroundings by appearing to float in a slightly raised position above the surface. This exclusive ambience is further enhanced by a discreet lighting effect, which showcases the contours of the sound sources with a subtly impressive effect. The B&O Acoustic Lens Technology element in the center of the instrument panel area adds both a visual feature and is an acoustic innovation. As soon as the audio system is activated, the central element containing the integrated mid-range speaker pops up, prompting the tweeter lens to be extended at the same time. The tweeter lens distributes its signals evenly at 180 degrees throughout the interior. This extraordinarily harmonious horizontal dispersion of sound is achieved through the special design of the lens, which also minimizes unwanted vertical sound dispersion.
Industry leading new-generation Head-Up Display.
The new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe can be equipped with the most advanced Head-Up Display system in the premium segment. By projecting important information onto the windshield, directly in the driver’s line of sight, the Head-Up Display minimizes distraction from the road and traffic. This latest-generation system brings a further improvement in display quality: the symbols are projected as three-dimensional graphics and in ultra-clear resolution onto the windshield. Full-color capability makes the road sign symbols even more realistic. At the same time the Head-Up Display is now able to present a wider range of information. Depending on vehicle specification, guidance information supplied by the Navigation system, Check Control messages, status messages from the Lane Departure Warning System and warnings from the BMW Night Vision system can all be shown in the Head-Up Display. The positioning of the messages on the windshield is highly ergonomic, so that drivers are aware of them without having to refocus or take their eyes off the road.
The intensity of the projection automatically adjusts to the ambient light level, and the brightness setting can be adjusted via the iDrive menu. The driver can also choose what information will appear in the Head-Up Display in addition to road speed and warnings from the driver assistance systems.
Rear-View, Top View, and Side View Cameras.
To supplement the standard Park Distance Control, which uses ultrasonic sensors to monitor distance from objects in front or behind, the Gran Coupe also features a standard rear-view camera. The camera is integrated in the trunklid under the BMW “roundel” badge, which protects it from dirt. When the rear-view camera is activated, the roundel badge pivots up out of the way to expose the camera lens. The perspective-corrected color images are relayed to the Central Display. Superimposed on the images are interactive tracking lines which indicate the optimal steering angle for parking, as well as the tightest turning circle.
The optional Top View system with Side View provides an even more comprehensive picture. In addition to the rear-view camera and the PDC sensors, this system also uses a fish-eye camera in each of the side mirrors. The data acquired by Top View is relayed to a central computer which generates a bird’s eye view of both vehicle and surroundings and presents the image in the Central Display. This view allows the driver to maneuver precisely in confined spaces.
The Side View function uses two cameras integrated in the front fenders to provide an improved view of cross-traffic at speeds below 10mph. These images are relayed to the Central Display where they may give the driver an early idea of what is happening on the road to the left and right of the car when pulling out from narrow and concealed gateways or car park exits.
The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe: Production in Dingolfing, Germany.
The new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is built alongside its other 6 Series siblings at the BMW plant in Dingolfing, Germany. Also rolling off the assembly line at the BMW Group’s largest production plant are the BMW 7 Series and BMW 5 Series models. The flexible and efficient processes at the plant combine state-of-the-art production technology with a standard of quality defined by meticulous craftsmanship in the manufacture of premium cars configured to customer order and satisfaction.
William Maley

Next Subaru WRX To Come With Smaller Engine

The next Subaru WRX will be using a smaller engine but have more power. Motor Trend has found out from a Subaru spokesperson the next WRX will use a 2.0L turbo variant of the FA20 engine found in the new BRZ.
Although the new engine is half a liter smaller in displacement than the current WRX’s 2.5-liter 265-horsepower engine, Subaru is targeting a 270 HP rating.
So why a smaller displacement? Part of it is due to fuel economy. The current WRX gets EPA rating of 19 city and 25 highway. Subaru recently announced the new FA20 engine to get 30 mpg highway.
The move also signals a change Subaru announced awhile ago with the Impreza and WRX/STi going their separate ways. The new Impreza 2.0L flat four from the FB family of engines found in the Forester SUV and other models. The engine does not feature the same compact dimensions, 86 mm x 86 mm bore and stroke, or complex D4S port/direct injection technology as the FA20 engine.
Source: Motor Trend
William Maley

NHTSA Proposes Standardizing Keyless Ignitions

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 9, 2011
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration proposed today a new rule that would make all keyless ignition systems operate in the same manner.
The proposed rule would require the system be able to turn off the engine regardless of the position the gear selector is in. The rule would also reduce the number of seconds someone has to hold the button to turn the engine and have an audible warning if the driver tries to shut the motor without first selecting Park.
NHTSA is proposing the rule due to number of vehicles equipped with keyless ignitions. In 2002, 5,000 vehicles were equipped with keyless ignitions. In 2008, the number jumped to over 1.2 million vehicles.
NHTSA is also citing the 2009 accident of a Lexus ES330 that killed an off-duty California Highway Patrol and three other people. The Lexus required the driver to hold the button for three seconds before the car turned off.
NHTSA says the cost to implement this feature will be less than $500,000 a year for automakers.
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

Honda USA CEO Vowing To Make Crosstour Successful

Tetsuo Iwamura, President and CEO of American Honda, told Autoblog that he is disappointed with the current sales of the Crosstour.
"In the case of the Crosstour, I'm really disappointed because that's a nice car, [with] very beautiful styling, and it gives very good driving performance as well as packaging. But yet, we went a bit too far."
Since being introduced back in 2009 as a 2010 model, the Crosstour has been struggling in sales. So far in 2011, Honda has only moved 16,679 Crosstours - a 36% drop compared to 2010 when Honda sold 25,927 Crosstours.
Iwamaura said Honda is actually "quite satisfied" with sales of most of its vehicle lines (i.e. Accord, Civic, CR-V), maintaining that he sees nothing within Honda that has prevented the company from generating new hit models. Iwamaura also said the company will continue development of its niche players.
"With further refinement of styling and performance, it will be a very good success, a leading model," Iwamaura said.
Source: Autoblog
William Maley

Chevrolet Spark EV To Use Different Battery Tech

With the current NHTSA investigation into the Chevrolet Volt's battery pack, GM decided to use a different battery chemistry for its upcoming Chevrolet Spark electric vehicle.
GM announced today the Spark EV will use lithium phosphate batteries for its Spark EV rather than the lithium metal oxide batteries used in the Volt. The lithium phosphate batteries store less energy and require more space than lithium metal batteries. However, lithium phosphate batteries are more stable than lithium metal batteries.
“Lithium phosphate chemistry looks like it could be more friendly in terms of heat management.But it stores less energy. There is a tremendous amount of new discovery. This is new territory for lithium batteries,” said James Hall, principal of consulting company 2953 Analytics Inc.
A123 Systems will provide the lithium phosphate batteries for the Spark EV, which will arrive to showrooms in 2013.
Source: Bloomberg
William Maley

Audi Designer Confirms X6 Rival and Smaller SUV Coupe Thing

Audi seems to be impressed with the BMW X6 that they are working on their own competitor.
Volkswagen Group design chief Walter de’ Silva told Automotive News Europe that the company has signed off on Audi’s X6 rival, dubbed the Q6 by the media.
“We will definitely launch a sportier crossover in between the Q7 and Q5,” de’ Silva said.
De' Silva also said that Audi is still deciding whether to add a smaller SUV, likely named the Q4, to fit between the Q5 and Q3. The Q4 would compete with the upcoming BMW X4, which was confirmed by BMW’s CEO Norbert Reithofer, to come out in 2014.
Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required)
William Maley

Ford Unveils The Boss 302SX Concept

Ford is thinking about expanding their track car lineup which includes the Boss 302S and 302R. At the recent Performance Racing Industry trade show in Orlando, FL., Ford quietly introduced the 302SX concept.
Ford says the 302SX is the “ultimate track day car” and slots in between the Boss 302S and the Boss 302R race cars.
Outside, the 302SX carries many cues from the refreshed 2013 Boss 302 including a more aggressive front end, vented hood and 1970-style graphics, along with a more aggressive front splitter and adjustable rear wing.
Under the hood lies a 5.0L V-8 producing 500 HP and goes through a six speed manual from the Boss 302R. The 302SX also comes equipped with a fully adjustable coilover suspension, adjustable front and rear sway bars, camber/caster plates, limited slip differential, Brembo brakes and racing slicks
Inside, Ford ripped out all of the interior and put in a six-point rollcage, lightweight seats, a quick release steering wheel, and a system to record lap times.
Source: Mustangs Daily
William Maley

Will Lexus Produce Vehicles In The US?

With the increasing strength of Yen, Japanese automakers are finding it harder to make a profit on vehicles built in Japan. The situation is becoming so bad, that Toyota is thinking about making a drastic change; move Lexus production.
Fortune reports that Toyota CEO, Akio Toyoda wants more compact Toyota models, the least profitable models in its lineup to be produced outside of Japan. Toyoda acknowledges that Lexus models may follow.
But where would they head to? Most likely to the US where most of Lexus models are sold.
However, there is a problem. Lexus’ U.S. chief Mark Templin said Toyota's "pride," which stems from manufacturing its most prestigious models in its home country, would be difficult to overcome. Templin also said the decision is tough and would be decided by execs in Japan.
Source: Fortune
William Maley

UAW Drops Plan To Organize A Foreign Automaker Plant

The UAW has dropped their plans to organize a foreign automaker plant. Previously, the UAW vowed to organize one foreign auto manufacturer on U.S. soil by year’s end.
"We're shifting our strategy a little bit. We are not going to announce a target at all. We are not going to create a fight," said UAW President Bob King.
King's announcement comes a few days after UAW spokeswoman Michele Martin said the union wouldn't meet it's goal to unionize a foreign plant by year’s end.
Organizing one foreign automaker plant has been a goal of King since becoming the UAW's president back in July 2010. However, the goal has turned out to be an uphill, with the majority of foreign automakers declining to hear the UAW.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

How Much For The Subaru BRZ?

Subaru has done a good job of dodging the “how much is the BRZ going to cost” question only saying the price would be “comparable” to a Subaru WRX.
But if Motor Trend is to believed, you can step into the base BRZ Premium for $24,000 which gets you a Torsen limited-slip differential, 17-inch alloy wheels, tilt-telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather shift knob and handbrake, a six-speed manual transmission, aluminum pedal pads, an eight-speaker sound system, and standard Navigation.
If you have extra $3,000 lying around, you can step into a BRZ Limited that adds leather-alcantara upholstery, a rear lip spoiler and foglights, among other things.
We’ll see if these estimates pan out when BRZ arrives in the US next year.
Source: Motor Trend
William Maley

Detroit 2012: Smart For-us Concept

Smart has been teasing us with many a concept to make us pay attention to the brand and their concept for Detroit seems to continue that trend.
Smart has released some design pics of the For-Us concept. The For-Us concept is a pickup truck for the urban market. Based on the Smart ForTwo convertible, the For-Us is three feet longer and six inches taller than the regular ForTwo. With the extra space, Smart has added a truck bed that provides 35.4 inches of load space. The tailgate is controlled electronically to either be raised or lower.
Power comes from 55-kW (74-hp) electric motor spins the rear wheels, and is powered by a 17.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack from the ForTwo Electric Drive. Smart says the car can reach a top speed of 75 MPH but doesn’t give a range.

Press Release is on Page 2
smart for-us: world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show
The Rule-Breaker
Stuttgart. smart is turning the automotive world upside down once again and challenging ideas about what an urban pickup should look like. In a tongue-in-cheek manner the for-us signals that this is the right car for the young and young-at-heart with active lives who attach importance to low emissions and taking up minimum road space. The smart for-us translates the practical loading concept of a pickup to the reality of 21st century urban traffic for the first time.
With its exterior dimensions (length/width/height: 3547/1506/1701mm) it could almost go unnoticed on the loading area of a typical pickup, and it also anything but ordinary under the body. Thanks to the state-of-the-art electric drive with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor the zero-emission smart for-us is agile and lively to drive. It will celebrate its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in
Detroit (14 - 22 January 2012).
smart CEO Dr. Annette Winkler says "We at smart love pick-ups – if they are small on the outside, large on the inside, very safe and extremely comfortable. With the smart for-us a petrol station is no longer required!”
Like car2go, the globally successful car sharing initiative from smart for more flexibility in city traffic, the smart for-us is a mobility concept. It has plenty of room for two people and space for two smart ebikes behind them. Thanks to the docking station on the cargo area of the smart for-us their batteries are always charged, and smart for-us drivers can also reach destinations that are out of bounds for cars – for example traffic-calmed zones in the city or isolated park trails.
The design: sassy and robust with extremely short overhangs
Compared with the series-produced fortwo the smart for-us makes a powerful statement and its appearance plays with the martial image of conventional mega-pickups. Nevertheless, it greets the viewer with a friendly yet assertive face. It features convex and sensuously shaped body surfaces. The large brand emblem is proudly sported on the grille, and the front has a pronounced three-dimensional design with an underride guard finishing off the lower part of the front end.
The longer wheelbase (2480 mm/plus 613 mm) and the track that has been widened by 50 mm on each side also emphasise the robust look of the study. At the same time the extremely short overhangs at the front and rear make it exceedingly compact.
The tailboard at the rear of the smart for-us is electrically driven. When it opens first of all the cargo floor including tailboard retracts by 280 mm, then the tailgate slides down in a parallel position. The cargo on the 900 mm cargo area is then extremely easy to access.
Sleek, taut surfaces in mother-of-pearl white combined with precisely designed technical functional elements in brushed aluminium – the interior is characterised by contrasts. Like in the smart forvision, the whole cockpit boasts aerodynamic styling for interior ventilation. In place of a conventional rear-view mirror the smart for-us features a smartphone accommodated in a holder on top of the instrument panel support. The driver can see what is happening on the road behind with the help of an integrated video camera.
Stylish, uncomplicated, highly functional and easy to individualise – the two seats in the concept car are typically smart. The seat shells, which are open in the middle, are covered with a soft yellow fabric throw giving them a hammock-like seating feel.
Electric drive – zero-local-emission driving fun
The electric drive of the smart for-us is based on the innovative drive concept of the smart fortwo electric drive, which will be launched in the spring of 2012. Thanks to the 55 kW magneto-electric motor the smart for-us is agile and lively to drive. With 130 Newton metres of torque it boasts powerful, lag-free acceleration and it can overtake other vehicles with the greatest of ease. The maximum speed exceeds 120 km/h. The lithium-ion battery has capacity of 17.6 kWh.
William Maley

Detroit 2012: Five For General Motors

With Detroit only a month away, news has began to come/leak out of what will be premiering. Late last week, GM’s senior vice president of global product development, Mary Barra told the Automotive Press Association in Detroit the new ATS would make it's debut at Detroit.
But that's not all, Chevrolet will be showing a production version of the Sonic RS and two concept vehicles from their GM North Hollywood Design Center. Buick will have the brand new Encore, a small crossover based on GM’s front-wheel-drive Gamma II platform there as well.
Source: Automobile Magazine, Left Lane News
William Maley

MIT Works On Predicting Who’s Gonna Run The Red

In the Math solving all of our problems file; the LA Times is reporting that MIT has developed an an algorithm that can determine whether a driver will run a red light within milliseconds.Their research is being published in the journal IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems.
The group did tests at an intersection in Christianburg, VA with 15,000 vehicles passing through. Their results with the algorithm was correct 85% of the time, which is reportedly the most accurate that has been measured.
The hope is in the future, traffic lights will be able to send the information to vehicles and have the vehicles make decisions on what to. This will help reduce the number of accidents at intersections.
Source: LA Times
William Maley

Has Saab Used Up All Their Lives?

When we last checked in on Saab, they had announced a deal with Youngman automotive and a bank in China and were waiting on approval from GM and the Chinese.
Well Saab might have just used it's last life. Yesterday, General Motors announced they wouldn't support the new agreement.
"We have reviewed Saab's proposed changes regarding the sale of the company. Nothing in the proposal changes GM's position. We are unable to support the transaction," said GM spokesman Jim Cain.
And the news gets even worse for Saab. In a press release today, Saab's parent company Swedish Automotive revealed the administrator in charge of Saab's reorganization for the Swedish government, Mr. Guy Lofalk would apply for termination of voluntary reorganization of the automaker.
Lofalk has tried to apply for termination of the reorganization back in October, but was met with anger and threats of removing him from the reorganization.
However, that isn't stopping Saab to try one last ditch effort to get some money. Victor Muller, Saab's boss Saab boss Victor Muller is reportedly seeking a loan worth over $800 million from proposed Chinese partner Youngman and an unnamed bank.
Source: Autoblog, The Detroit News
Related:
The Continuing Story of Saab, Part 412.5: Three Ring Circus
A Chinese Bank Becomes An Investor In Saab
Press Release is on Page 2
7 December 2011
Swedish Automobile Informed By Administrator Of
Application To Terminate Voluntary Reorganization
Trollhättan, Sweden: Swedish Automobile N.V. (Swan) announces it has been informed that the administrator of the reorganization, Mr. Guy Lofalk, will apply for termination of the voluntary reorganization of Saab Automobile AB (Saab Automobile) and two subsidiaries with the District Court in Vänersborg, Sweden.
Saab Automobile and its creditors have approximately five to six days to submit their view to the District Court before the Court takes a final decision about termination of the reorganization. The management of Saab Automobile will consider future steps and continues the current discussions with Youngman about the necessary funding to pay the wages and be able to continue the voluntary reorganization.
William Maley

Sources Say The Coolant Is What Caused The Volt Fire, Solution Is Near

General Motors might have figured out what caused the Volt to catch on fire in a NHTSA storage yard back in June.
A source tells the Associated Press the cause of the fire is the coolant used in batteries to help keep them cool. The coolant didn't catch on fire, but crystallized and caused a short circuit.
But just as that information was coming out, Reuters learned from a couple sources that GM is closing in on a package of proposed fixes for the battery pack. The fixes include laminating the circuitry in the Volt's 400-pound battery pack, reinforcing the case surrounding the lithium-ion battery and better protecting the coolant system from leaks in a severe crash.
The fixes could cost less than $9 million, or about $1,000 per Volt, the sources say.
Sources: Associated Press, Reuters
Related:
Chevrolet Volt Fire Prompts Investigation Into Batteries
NHTSA Opens Investigation Into Volt Batteries
GM Offering Free Loaner Cars to Volt Owners During Battery Investigation
Chevy Volt Tops Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Survey
GM May Redesign The Volt's Battery *UPDATED*
A "couple dozen" Chevrolet Volt Owners Take Up GM's Buyback Offer
House Committee Planning A Hearing Into The Volt Fire
William Maley

WHAT?! Porsche Cayenne Coming With A Diesel In 2012

Porsche seems to be following the same idea as Volkswagen with setting an ambitious sales goal for 2018. Porsche’s U.S. chief Detlev von Platen told Automotive News this week that he sees the brand selling 50,000 vehicles in the US by 2018. Now that might sound crazy, but Porsche is on track to sell 29,000 vehicles in the US this year.
To help reach this goal, Porsche is counting on three models; the new 911, the Panamera GTS, and a new Cayenne Diesel.
The Cayenne diesel will arrive at dealers sometime in late 2012 packing a 3.0L V-6 turbodiesel engine producing 240 HP and 406 lb-ft of torque. The diesel will join the hybrid version of the Cayenne.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Motor Authority
William Maley

House Commitee Planning A Hearing Into The Volt Fire

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 6, 2011
Earlier today, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee it plans to hold a hearing in late January on the Volt battery issue.
"It gives us great concern that recent reports indicate important safety information may have been omitted in testimony before our committee just a few weeks ago. This is a serious situation that our committee will look further into," said Jeff Solsby, a spokesman for the committee.
The hearing Solsby is referencing to was a hearing on fuel economy standards and had Environmental Protection Agency and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration officials testify.
The announcement comes a few weeks after NHTSA revealed a Volt caught on fire a three weeks after a side impact crash and couple weeks after NHTSA announced an investigation into the Volt batteries after further testing found two out of the three batteries had a thermal event.
Many conservative commentators have criticized the Volt and and the government's investigation, saying the Obama administration was trying to protect GM.
Also, the former head of NHTSA, Joan Claybrook said in Automotive News this week,
"Not to tell them anything for six months makes no sense to me. NHTSA could have put out a consumer alert and I think they should have done so."
Claybrook went on to say, "I believe they delayed it because of the fragility of [Volt] sales."
"I believe the Volt is safe to drive," said US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to reporters.
LaHood said the government isn't protecting GM by not immediately disclosing a fire with a crashed Volt.
"We're not in the business of protecting the auto industry. We're in the business of making sure cars are safe."
LaHood declined to comment on status of the Volt investigation.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), The Detroit News
Related:
Chevrolet Volt Fire Prompts Investigation Into Batteries
NHTSA Opens Investigation Into Volt Batteries
GM Offering Free Loaner Cars to Volt Owners During Battery Investigation
Chevy Volt Tops Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Survey
GM May Redesign The Volt's Battery *UPDATED*
A "couple dozen" Chevrolet Volt Owners Take Up GM's Buyback Offer
William Maley

Spying: Buick Enclave

It's been about six years since GM introduced the Lambdas (Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Terrain, and Saturn Outlook) to the world and they're beginning to get long in the tooth. GM is quietly working on next generation of these models and some spy shots have come out of Buick Enclave with added camoflage.
The pictures show the Enclave will be retaining it's large size as the current model. Also, the front end gets a new grill with longer, thinner grille slats spaced further out. The back end doesn't show any changes thanks to all of the camouflage.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Is Land Rover Working On A Evoque XL?

Land Rover is looking at expanding the Evoque lineup with a longer Evoque. The model will sit between the Evoque and the Range Rover Sport.
The vehicle will be based on a stretched version of Land Rover’s LR-MS architecture that underpins the current Evoque, with six inches being added between the axles and the rest going to the rear end. The vehicle will also use lightweight materials to meet stricter requirements for fuel economy.
Design will be a copy of the Evoque with minor changes to give it a visual and functional character of its own.
Power will come from a new range of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel powertrains JLR is developing. A hybrid will also be available.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Detroit 2012: The Return Of The Dart

For the longest time, we've been hearing about a new car that would be replacing the dreadful Dodge Caliber. Today, Dodge revealed the replacement.
Meet the 2013 Dodge Dart, which will make it's debut next month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Previously, the car was known as the Hornet till Dodge announced last month the name wouldn't be used.
The Dart will be the first Chrysler vehicle using a Fiat vehicle architecture; the Alfa Romeo Giulietta in this case. The Giulietta's platform has been widened and lengthened for the Dart. Dodge says high-strength steel and independent suspension will make the car more fun to drive than its predecessors.
Styling of the Dart borrows a lot from the full-size Charger, with the front end having Dodge's trademark crosshair grill and headlights that are angled up over the car’s front fenders. Around back, a full bank of LED taillights and dual exhausts help make the car a Dodge.
Three engines will be available; a 2.0L inline-four “Tigershark”, a turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir inline-four, and a 2.4L“Tigershark” inline-four. Three transmissions will be available; most likely an six-speed automatic plus a choice of five- and six-speed manuals.
The Dodge Dart will be built at Chrysler's Assembly n Belvidere, Illinois, which currently assembles the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot.



Press Release is on Page 2



Dodge Hits the Mark With the All-new 2013 Dodge Dart Compact Car


Dodge Dart Blends Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge’s Passion for Performance, Resulting in a Groundbreaking Car with the Ultimate Blend of Power, Fuel Economy, Handling and Style
The Dodge brand is back in the U.S. compact sedan segment – in a big way – as the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart will make its world debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Mich., on Jan. 9, 2012
Built on a world-class architecture, Dodge Dart offers three technologically advanced, fuel-efficient and powerful engines, including the 1.4L MultiAir® Turbo
Dodge delivers exceptional craftsmanship with class-leading technology and style
Auburn Hills, Mich. , Dec 6, 2011 - Dodge redefines performance in the compact car segment with an all-new, state-of-the-art four-door sedan delivering class-leading aerodynamics – the 2013 Dodge Dart.
With Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge’s passion for performance at its core, the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that’s fuel-efficient, beautifully designed and crafted, agile and brings fun back to driving in the segment.
Similar to the Dodge Dart of the late 1960s, the 2013 Dart offers a special blend of style, performance and innovation. The Dodge brand leveraged its nearly 100-year history of passion for building high-quality, innovative vehicles that stand apart in performance and style, as well as from its partner Fiat’s global compact car expertise, to develop the all-new Dodge Dart.
ALFA ROMEO DNA
The all-new Dart is the first Chrysler Group vehicle based upon a Fiat architecture – adapted from the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The Giulietta is renowned for satisfying the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding, agility and safety, with exceptional driving dynamics. The Dart leverages all of these attributes within a lengthened and widened platform delivering segment-leading levels of interior roominess.
The all-new Compact U.S. Wide (CUSW) architecture underpinning the Dart is a state-of-the-art architecture with an industry-leading 68 percent of the body composed of high-strength steel, resulting in a very strong and rigid structure. Combined with responsive steering, four-wheel independent suspension, and available 18-inch wheels, the Dart brings fun back to driving in the compact car segment.
UNMISTAKABLE STYLE
The all-new 2013 Dart marks the Dodge brand’s re-entry into the compact sedan segment, hitting the bulls-eye with a modern, unmistakable Dodge design that builds upon its performance heritage while evoking emotion, efficiency and fluidity of movement.
Eye-catching exterior proportions are set off from every angle by dynamic lines and curves, along with advanced technology, to deliver class-leading aerodynamic performance. The personality-packed front view is instantly recognizable as an all-new Dodge with its tailored split-crosshair grille, projector headlamps and fog lamps and accentuated fenders. Signature Dodge full-width LED ‘racetrack’ tail lamps and class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust – both inspired by Dodge Charger – accentuate the athletic and muscular stance of this dynamic and passionate new design.
THREE SOPHISTICATED, FUEL-EFFICIENT & POWERFUL ENGINES
The 2013 Dodge Dart will be powered by three fuel-efficient, powerful, state-of-the-art four-cylinder engines that add to Dart’s fun-to-drive quotient.
Drivers can select from a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine, and a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir four cylinder engine. These three engines, combined with three transmission choices, combine to redefine performance by providing the most diverse powertrain lineup in its class.
MultiAir technology delivers optimum combustion at any speed under all driving conditions by allowing direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion. The result is up to a 15 percent increase in low engine rpm torque, a 7.5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 10 percent reduction in C02 emissions.
THE ALL-NEW DART – BUILT IN AMERICA
The all-new Dodge Dart will be made in America at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. The Company is in the process of investing $600 million dollars to support the production of future products, including the 2013 Dodge Dart. The investment includes the construction of a 638,000-square-foot body shop, as well as the installation of new machinery, tooling and material handling equipment. Work on the expansion began in the summer of 2010 and will be completed this year.

William Maley

A "couple dozen" Chevrolet Volt Owners Take Up GM's Buyback Offer

Last week, GM's CEO Dan Akerson said in a interview with the Associated Press that the company would be willing to buy back Volts from concerned owners.
Well some owners are taking GM up on that offer. Today, GM told The Detroit News that a "couple dozen" Volt owners have asked the company to buy back their Volts.
"For those few who have requested repurchase, we're going to move fast" if their concerns can't be met any other way, said Greg Martin, GM spokesman.
GM is currently working with Volt owners individually to understand their concerns and offering loaner vehicles to those owners during the NHTSA investigation.

Source:
The Detroit News

Related:
GM May Redesign The Volt's Battery *UPDATED*
William Maley

Rumorpile: Mazda Planning A 6 Coupe?

Mazda has some big plans in store for the next 6 due out in 2013 and one of those could be a coupe version.
A source tells What Car? that Mazda is planning a coupe version of the 6 to come out in 2014, a year after the sedan. The car will make use of Mazda's SkyActiv technologies; including engines, transmissions, and weight saving designs.
The question is though, will the US see this. The first Mazda6 introduced back in 2003 was offered in sedan, five-door hatchback, and wagon. The current 6 is only offered as a sedan, while the rest of the world gets a wagon version.
Source: What Car?
William Maley

A Chinese Bank Becomes An Investor In Saab

Saab seems to be the cat of the automotive industry with the number of lives it has. Last we heard from the Swedish company, the company was waiting on approval on a deal with Pang Da and Youngman. However, General Motors was concerned with the deal due to technologies used in Saab vehicles ending up in competitor hands.
Now, a new deal to save Saab is in the works. Saab's parent company, Swedish Automotive is in talks with Youngman and a bank in China (possibly Bank of China).
The plan according to SaabsUnited is to have Youngman hold 19.9%, the bank with 29.9%, and Swedish Automotive holding the rest.
The plan is reportedly in GM's hands, awaiting approval before heading to the Chinese Government.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), SaabsUnited
William Maley

Honda Standing Firm On Ridgeline

Honda’s Ridgeline hasn’t been a sales sucess. Sales of the truck have been lackluster since being introduced back in 2006 and refresh for the 2012 model hasn’t helped. That has lead rumors to Honda killing off the Ridgeline and caused American Honda's Truck Planner, Sage Marie issuing a statement saying the truck is staying. However, the statement didn’t say anything about future developments for the truck.
At the Tokyo Motor Show this week, Autoblog asked American Honda’s President and CEO, Tetsu Iwamura about the Ridgeline’s future.
"Ridgeline is quite an important model to us. It's the only truck-type of model we have. We're fully aware of the importance of that model and we're trying to make that model grow much more. At this moment, there is no intention to stop the Ridgeline. In order to make Ridgeline much more attractive – in order to enhance Ridgeline – we are studying lots of things at this moment."
When pressed about if Honda remains fully committed to trucks, Iwamura said they’re in it for the long haul. However, Iwamura said nothing on a second-gen Ridgeline.
Source: Autoblog
William Maley

Is Toyota Working On A Hotter GT 86?

Toyota has said that the primary focus of the GT 86 is handling, not horsepower. However, some recent comments from the chief engineer, Tetsuo Tada show Toyota could be making horsepower a bigger focus.
Tada told Autocar that test versions of a hotter GT 86 using superchargers have already been made and are currently being “evaluated” by Toyota Racing Development. Tada said the reason why they’re evaluating superchargers due to the simplicity of it than enlarging the engine and provides better response than adding a turbo.
Tada also said TRD is looking at suspension modifcations to handle the extra power.
Source: Autocar
William Maley

Audi Delaying A6 Diesel, A6 and A8 Hybrids

With tougher CAFE standards looming, Audi has got a range of new diesel and hybrid models coming to the US. Next year, Audi has the Q5 crossover and A8 sedan coming with a diesel. However, Audi has put the A6 diesel and Hybrid versions of the A6 and A8 on delay.
In the case of the Hybrids, Audi’s US President, Johann De Nysschen told Ward’s Auto that the pushing back the A6 and A8 Hybrids was largely done to “minimize complexity” in the lineup, since there is a Q5 Hybrid coming next year.
As for the A6 diesel, no official reason was given. But given the mid-size premium sedan segment in the US is sluggish and most of Audi’s sales gains (14.1% so far in 2011) have been at the expense of rivals, perhaps it isn’t the time to launch another vehicle.
De Nysschen also told Ward’s that a diesel version of the A7 for the US is possible.
Source: Ward’s Auto
William Maley

From The VW SUV/Crossover Dept: A Three-Row Crossover

Volkswagen is looking to add a seven-seat crossover to their lineup within the next few years. Car & Driver reports the crossover will be priced around the Honsa Pilot and the Ford Explorer, meaning somewhere in the low $30k range.
Engines will most likely be Volkswagen’s 3.6L V-6; a 3.0L diesel V-6 could be optional.
The crossover will most likely be built at VW’s plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, though Mexico remains another possibility.
The crossover will come out within a few years.
Source: Car & Driver
William Maley

Farewell Aptera

Aptera Motors, the company behind the odd looking, three wheel electric vehicle called the 2e has announced today they're closing up shop.
In a letter written by Aptera Motors President and CEO, Paul Wilbur, Aptera was unable to raise enough money from investors to keep it going until it received a $150 million loan from the Department of Energy's Advance Technology Vehicle Manufacturing program.

"This is a difficult time for everyone connected with our company because we have never been closer to realizing our vision," Wilbur wrote.



The closure ends a saga that started back in 2006 when the company made the announcement the 2e would get the equivalent of 300 mpg and cost less than $30,000. Production of the 2e was announced to begin back in 2009, but was pushed back to 2010, with no vehicles being built.



In August, the company returned deposits it had taken from prospective buyers of the 2e, stating a six-month window with its credit card processor to launch production had passed.



Wilbur's letter revealed the company spent the last year developing a hybrid-powered sedan, about the same size as a Toyota Camry, which would return the equivalent of 190 mpg and have a base price less than $30,000. Also, Aptera had been negotiating to use a closed auto plant in Moraine, Ohio, to build the car.



"We remain confident, even as this chapter closes, that Aptera has contributed tech new technologies to build a future for more efficient driving. Through the dedicated staff at Aptera, our board and suppliers we have touched this future. All that remains is for someone to grab it. We still believe it will happen," wrote Wilbur.



Letter is on Page 2







After years of focused effort to bring our products to the market, Aptera Motors is closing its doors, effective today. This is a difficult time for everyone connected with our company because we have never been closer to realizing our vision. Unfortunately, though, we are out of resources.
It is especially disappointing since we were so close...
Aptera executives had been engaged in exhaustive due diligence with the Department of Energy (DOE) pertaining to an ATVM (Advance Technology Vehicle Manufacturing) loan. Our business plan was examined from top to bottom by internal agency representatives, independent consultants and experts in academia. They did an amazing job of vetting us and they tested every possible weakness in our plan. And after nearly two years of discussions, we had recently received a Conditional Commitment Letter for a $150 million loan.
The ATVM loan would have provided funding for the development and commercialization of a five-passenger, midsized sedan (similar to a Toyota Camry) that would be base priced at less than $30,000 and deliver more than a 190 mile per gallon equivalent. The concept of this vehicle had been in place since the very beginning of Aptera, and we had been wholly focused on its development for the last year. The last remaining hurdle was finding new funds to match the DOE loan.
We were so optimistic that the company would move forward that we were in discussions to reactivate a mothballed automotive plant in Moraine, Ohio. In the past months we had engaged with the labor union that operated that facility to discuss the hiring of 1,400 new job opportunities. These jobs would have reactivated talented workers who had been dismissed when the facility was closed.
During the same time, we continued development of our patent-pending composite manufacturing system that enables energy efficient vehicle production by drastically reducing vehicle weight (by as much as 30%) while tripling its strength. This same patent pending system allowed us to finish the surface of our composites without manual finishing and without the high capital cost of a typical automotive paint shop. In all, the process would save nearly $750-million versus a typical volume auto assembly plant start-up.
We were well on the way to satisfying the vision of efficiency on which the company was founded and we are confident that with time and capital we could still achieve our goal. The Aptera formula: aerodynamics plus light weight design (through composites) delivered efficiency of 206 EPA miles per gallon in tests at Argonne National Labs. That wasn't a simulation; it was real measured performance. Despite that promise of efficiency, this challenged market – specifically large private investors – did not have an appetite to lead an investment for the perceived low volume return of our three-wheeled vehicle. So we reprioritized our product plan to four-door sedans, which also cost us time.
We remain confident, even as this chapter closes, that Aptera has contributed tech new technologies to build a future for more efficient driving. Through the dedicated staff at Aptera, our board and suppliers we have touched this future. All that remains is for someone to grab it. We still believe it will happen.
Paul Wilbur
President and CEO
Aptera Motors


William Maley

Consumer Group Calls Out Hyundai's 40 MPG Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is one of the highest rated vehicles in it's class for MPG, with the car receiving an EPA rating of 29 City/40 Highway. But many people can't seem to match the EPA rating and that has caused a consumer group to take action.
Consumer advocacy group Consumer Watchdog announced this week that it will be urging the EPA to re-test the Elantra due to complaints from consumers about the MPG.
“The Elantra has attracted an unusual number of consumer complaints about real-world mpg averaging in the mid-20s, far from Hyundai’s stated average of 33,” said Consumer Watchdog in a statement.
Hyundai rates the Elantra at 33 MPG combined. However, reviewers and people have seen lower numbers.
When asked for comment, Hyundai pointed to the J.D. Power APEAL study showing that, "Elantra owners are the happiest in the entire compact segment competitive set in terms of fuel economy." Hyundai also said that real-world fuel economy results often differ from EPA results.
Source: Autoblog, Consumer Watchdog
Press Release and Letter To The EPA is on Page 2

Consumer Watchdog Urges EPA to Re-Test Elantra 40 MPG Claim, Hold Hyundai to Account


12/1/2011
Consumers Seeking Best-MPG Car Get Much Less From Elantra, Say Drivers, Testing Groups
Washington, D.C. -- As automakers make their annual pitch for holiday sales, Consumer Watchdog has asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to investigate Hyundai’s high mileage claims for its popular Elantra model (29/40 MPG city/highway, 33 MPG average).
The Elantra has attracted an unusual number of consumer complaints about real-world MPG averaging in the mid-20s, far from Hyundai’s stated average of 33, said Consumer Watchdog.
“Gasoline remains well above $3 a gallon and MPG is a key factor for car buyers, who expect to match the window-label MPG if they drive carefully,” said Judy Dugan, research director for Consumer Watchdog. “A loss of 6 or 7 miles per gallon, a conservative average for the Elantra based on tests and complaints, adds up to real money for drivers.”
The letter said, in part:
“As the holiday season commences, automakers are touting discounts and year-end deals; record-high gasoline prices for the season will make MPG a significant part of their red-bow advertising. …
“This makes the accuracy of EPA MPG estimates all the more important, to prevent any maker from marketing autos on a stated city or highway MPG that substantially misstates the result that drivers will get on the road. In general, the new EPA MPG estimates seem to comport closely to real-world results. …
“However, a notable exception to this rule has caught the attention of Consumer Watchdog. For the two most recent model years, Hyundai Motors has actively marketed its base models of the Elantra on their very high 29/40 MPG, and 33 MPG average, leaving a trail of disappointed drivers. An Edmunds online Town Hall discussion on the Elantra attracted scores of drivers who can't, no matter how hard they try, duplicate such numbers. One very public example of this was USA Today tech writer Jefferson Graham, whose Sept. 22 article on his new Elantra expressed his disappointment that he averaged only 22 MPG, a gap that no "break-in" period seems likely to fill.
“Additionally, while Motor Trend named the 2011 Elantra Car of the Year in its class, the magazine's on-road testers achieved only a very disappointing 26.5 MPG average, bad enough to get special note in the review. Consumers Union found similar fault in with the 2012 Elantra, a redesign. While CU's highway mileage was 39, its city mileage, with experienced drivers who know how to drive a low-mileage auto, was only 20 MPG--very far from the listed 29 MPG. …
“Gasoline prices remain at record high levels for this season, making efficiency a top purchasing issue for consumers. Neither Hyundai for any other car company should be allowed to misrepresent its efficiency standards or dupe consumers into buying its cars. We ask you, through prompt re-testing and action as needed, to send a message to the company and the auto industry that MPG misrepresentation will not be tolerated.”
See the complete letter at: http://www.consumerwatchdog.org/resources/ltrepaelantra11292011.pdf
Consumer Watchdog asked the EPA, if re-testing finds flaws with Hyundai’s original EPA-mandated tests, for fines against Hyundai and owner compensation.
“The popularity and increasing sales of the Elantra make it all the more important that drivers get the same or nearly the same results as the EPA mileage,” said Judy Dugan, research director of Consumer Watchdog. “EPA’s current MPG testing model has been close to real-world results for other high-efficiency models, so at the very least Hyundai has some hard explaining to do about the Elantra’s shortfalls.”

William Maley

Next Viper To Appear At The New York Auto Show

Chrysler has been teasing the next Viper for the past year with shots here and there. The rumors have been swirling around for the same time, ranging from a 8.7L V10 to the Viper being based on a sports car from the Fiat Family (Maserati GranTurismo).
All of these questions will be answered next April. Chrysler's SRT Brand President and CEO Ralph Gilles told Viper magazine the next Viper will be shown at the 2012 New York Auto Show in April.
Source: Autoblog
Related:
Rumorpile: 8.7L V10 For The Next Viper?
Next Viper Going To Be Less Rough
William Maley

GM May Redesign The Volt's Battery *UPDATED*

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
December 1, 2011
In a interview today with Reuters, GM CEO Dan Akerson said the company may redesign the Volt's battery in response to a NHTSA investigation.
"We want to assure the safety of our customers, of our buyers, and so we're just going to take a time out, if you will, in terms of redesigning the battery possibly," Dan Akerson told Reuters.
Back on Monday, GM announced they would offer loaner vehicles to 5,500 Volt owners after NHTSA opened a investigation into Volt's batteries last Friday.
In addition, Akerson said the Opel Ampera would not go on sale until engineers and safety regulators had worked out how to deal with the 400-pound battery pack after any accident.
Akerson also reiterated that the Volt is a safe car, pointing to the safety ratings the car has received.
Source: Reuters
UPDATE: Dan Akerson told the AP today that the company would be willing to buy Volts back from their owners. Akerson also said that if necessary, GM will recall more than 6,000 Volts on the road in the U.S. and repair them once the company and safety regulators figure out what caused the fires.
"I think in the interest of General Motors, the industry, the electrification of the car, it's best to get it right now than when you have - instead of 6,000 - 60,000 or 600,000 cars on the road," said Akerson.
Source: The Associated Press
Further Reading:
NHTSA Opens Investigation Into Volt Batteries
GM Offering Free Loaner Cars to Volt Owners During Battery Investigation
Chevy Volt Tops Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Survey
William Maley

Interactive Review: 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Joining us this week for a review is the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 6-Speed manual with Autobahn Package and Navi. The Jetta in this trim stickers at about $26,445 (the fleet manager is getting me the actual sticker later), and has very few options left to select other than automatic transmission and small accessories.
In May 2011, we reviewed a 2011 Volkswagen Jetta SE 2.5. During that week, I took the Jetta on a 750 mile trip. I had no love for the 2.5 liter 5-cylinder included in that car. The fuel economy I observed over my 750 mile highway trip didn't even match that of a V6 Chevrolet Camaro and the power wasn't even close. Like most 5-cylinders, that Jetta also had a rough feeling under hard acceleration. About the only positive thing I could say about the power train was that it had good torque to scoot around town with. It looks like Volkswagen might agree with my opinions. Recently rumors have popped up that Volkswagen will replace the 2.5 5-cylinder with a smaller displacement turbo charged 4-cylinder.
The interior was letdown if you didn't keep your perspective on this car's entry price. It was built well enough, but there were lots of button blankouts and dial deletes. Driving this car for 750 miles, I had to keep reminding myself, "$16k base price... $16k base price". Considering $16,000 barely gets you into a FIT over at Honda... that makes the lower end Jetta a not-to-bad proposition.
So the question becomes: Can the budget minded Jetta, that bases just above $16,000, be transformed into a performance sport sedan worthy of the GLI badge at $26,000. After 70 miles so far today, the Magic 8-Ball says: "Signs point to yes"
More on page 2
First off, the 200 horsepower 2.0T in the GLI feels much more powerful than its rating suggests and part of that comes from the 205 ft-lb of torque also available. There is turbo lag present, but it is very easy to drive around and in fact makes things a bit more fun when you feel the surge kick in. The shifter has unusually long throws for a car with sporting intentions and the clicks between gears have a bit of grit to them. I'll get back to you more on that as I put more miles on the car.
One of the main features that makes a GLI an upgrade over the other models is the completely replaced rear suspension. I haven't had a chance to try that improvement out yet.
The interior feels decidedly upmarket. Flat-bottomed steering wheels are clearly the new black for sports cars and the Jetta GLI is no exception. Leather wrapped and trimmed with red stitching, it feels perfectly sized in your hand. The automatic dual zone HVAC system is upgraded from cable operation to electronic. My preliminary experience with the navitainment system has been positive so far, but I was listening more to the turbo whistle than the satellite radio. Even the gauge cluster has been upgraded.
Naturally, interior dimensions don't change between SE and GLI models. The Jetta's interior room puts it almost into the mid-size class of vehicle rather than the Chevy Cruze and Ford Focus compacts it is priced against.
Externally, the Jetta GLI gets some minor styling tweaks, but those tweaks seem to be enough to transform the pedestrian SE into something more aggressive looking. Personal opinion, but I really love the way the standard 18" alloy wheels with painted accents look on this car.
We'll have this car until next Thursday when we swap into another Volkswagen. So fire away your questions in the comments section for our Interactive Review of the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI.
In the meantime, here are some preliminary cell phone pics.

Drew Dowdell

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