DEARBORN, Mich., July 28, 2008 - With per-gallon prices hovering around $4, customers are sensitive to every penny spent at the pump, and Ford Motor Company is leveraging technologies to help consumers avoid an even further hit to their wallets. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, including luxury models like the all-new 2009 Lincoln MKS, run - and run well - on regular unleaded gas, a true competitive advantage given today's skyrocketing fuel costs.



By developing vehicles that deliver both fuel efficiency and performance using regular unleaded gasoline, customers can save as much as $200 annually at the pump filling up a Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury product rather than using expensive premium unleaded fuel as some other automakers require.

Yet, recent figures from Kelley Blue Book show that the number of vehicles that either recommend or require premium fuel at an average of $0.20 or more per gallon has grown from 166 in 2002 to more than 280 today. Some luxury models on that list even warn owners they can seriously damage their engines if they consistently fill up with gas below 91 octane.

No such disclaimers or fuel requirements apply to volume Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicles. Products excluding specialty performance vehicles such as the Ford Shelby GT500 can run on regular 87-octane gasoline - with great performance, said Stephen Russ, a technical leader with Ford Powertrain Operations. That includes products ranging from the 2009 Ford Mustang Bullitt to the Lincoln MKS.

"Our vehicles, including our luxury products, will run normally on 87-octane regular fuel," he adds. "Some customers may choose to use premium fuel to get additional horsepower, but our powertrains are designed so we don't have to require it."

The Lincoln MKS, equipped with the 3.7-liter V-6 and front-wheel drive, for example, delivers 275 hp and 274 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. Fill up with regular unleaded, and the luxury sedan still delivers more than 270 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, along with maintaining 24 miles per gallon on the highway.

No Knock

Thanks to Ford's improved adaptive spark ignition system, Lincoln MKS owners that fill up with regular unleaded don't have to worry about the common engine knock and pinging often associated with using a lower-grade gas.

This system can sense what type of fuel is being injected into the motor, and communicates the information to the powertrain control module (PCM), which adjusts the spark accordingly. "We have improved the algorithms and software so the vehicle's PCM is better able to figure out what fuel is being used and quickly adapt," said Russ.

In addition to software changes, the ignition system features two knock sensors rather than one to further improve performance. These two sensors detect the presence of uncontrolled burning in the chambers more accurately, so the control module can retard engine timing as needed to eliminate the potential for engine knock and pinging.

Other vehicles that feature the improved two-sensor adaptive spark ignition system include the Mustang, equipped with the 4.6-liter V-8, Mustang Bullitt and the 2009 Ford Escape/Mercury Mariner equipped with the 3.0-liter V-6.

Dollars and Sense

Running on regular versus premium represents upwards of a $200-a-year savings in fuel costs for customers. Coupled with myriad other fuel-efficient technologies offered on Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, such as Ford's new six-speed automatic transmissions, customers can save even more in fuel costs without having to sacrifice performance.

For example, in addition to its six-speed transmission, the MKS features a two-speed fuel pump that alternates between two flow settings. During idle or under certain conditions such as cruising at highway speeds, the fuel pump runs on the low setting, requiring less energy to run the pump. The lower voltage results in less of a draw on the engine, improving fuel efficiency.

MKS also features Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off, a fuel-saving system that shuts off fuel flow to the injectors when the driver backs completely off the throttle with the vehicle in fifth or sixth gear, such as exiting onto a freeway off ramp.

[Source : Ford Group]
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TOKYO, 27 July 2008 - The Nikkei reports that Toyota's newly established department for battery research is focusing on metal-air cells as the next-generation battery technology for its vehicles.



In June at Toyota Environmental Forum in Tokyo, Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe said that the company was setting out to develop an innovative next-generation battery that far outperforms lithium-ion batteries.

Watanabe was referring to what's known as a metal-air battery, according to Toyota Executive Vice-President Masatami Takimoto. In this type of battery, electricity is generated by a reaction between oxygen in the air and a metal like zinc at the negative electrode. The battery does not require the use of a combustible liquid electrolyte, so there is no danger of ignition as is the case with lithium-ion batteries. Moreover, an air battery has over fives times the energy-storage capacity of a similarly-sized lithium-ion battery...It may take some time before air batteries reach the practical stage, but Toyota believes that they will ultimately become the next-generation battery technology of choice.

...Toshiba Battery Co. has conducted research on air batteries for many years and knows their weak spot: they don't perform well when made in large sizes. Because of this experience the company has no current plans to develop air-batteries for cars. However, the company acknowledges the large latent potential. "If the performance can be improved they could end up finding use in a wide range of applications (including cars)," agreed Teiji Okayama of the technology development department.

Toyota founded a chair for research on advanced batteries at Kyoto University, and will carry out research in collaboration with chair professor Koji Nishio.

A team of researchers led by Dr. Stuart Licht at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, recently published a paper on the development of a vanadium boride (VB₂)/air cell that offers an order of magnitude higher energy capacity than lithium-ion batteries.

[Source : NIKKEI via Green Car Congress]
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On July 27, the “SUGO GT 300KM RACE," Round 5 of the 2008 AUTOBACS SUPER GT, was held at Sports land SUGO (one lap: 3.704 km) in Miyagi Prefecture and the GT500 class winner was the TAKATA DOME NSX driven by Ryo Michigami and Takashi Kogure.


Starting from the pole position that he won on Saturday, Kogure got a good start as the first-half driver of the TAKATA DOME NSX and opened up an early lead over the competition. But soon the ARTA NSX moved up from its 3rd position start to put the pressure on and turn the race into a fierce battle between these two Honda NSX machines.
The close battle between the two continued in the second half of the race after Ryo Michigami took the wheel of the TAKATA DOME NSX until late in the race when the ARTA NSX ran off the track. In the end, the TAKATA DOME NSX won the race after effectively maintaining its lead throughout.
This was the first win of the season for the Michigami/Kogure team and also for the Honda NSX. This victory also moved them into first place in the season point ranking with a good shot for the series title.

In the GT300 class the victory went to the ARTA Garaiya driven by Morio Niita and Shinichi Takagi. For this team it was their second win of the season following a victory at round two.

(Spectators: 34,800)

Winner Comments.

No.18 TAKATA DOME NSX [GT500]
Ryo Michigami: “If you want to know how I am feeling right now, I'm very relieved. Izawa (in car No. 1) put a lot of pressure on me (laughs). He is fast and we were carrying a load of handicap weights, so it was hard to shake him. When he crashed we were boxed behind two GT300 machines at the last curve. He was pressuring me from behind and I was thinking about passing the GT300 machines on the outside. But there was a lot of tire shredings over there, so I held firm on the inside. Then I saw the orange car (No. 1) start to make its move on the outside and I wondered if he could do it. That's when he suddenly disappeared [off the track] and I saw in my rearview mirror that he had crashed. Then I realized it had been a futile attempt (wry laugh). This win means that we are going to have to carry even more handicap weights at Suzuka (Rd. 6), which will make things tough. But I will be trying to get us at least a few points toward the title."

Takashi Kogure: “I am really glad that we won. I'm relieved. I had a good start but No. 1 was soon chasing me and making it a tight battle. If it were only the two of us I could have held him off, but there he came after me when I was caught behind some GT300 cars on the last corner. The result was some dangerous braking on the first corner. Somehow I was able to hold him off and turn the machine over to Michigami san with our lead intact. I knew the conditions would be tough out there for him, but I had faith that he could keep the lead. But I got anxious when the No. 1 car started to try to get past him (laughs). But this win gives us a good shot at the championship title. From here on we will be thinking about the weight handicap and the season points with each race and try our best to win the title."


No. 43 ARTA Garaiya [GT300]
Morio Niita: “Things felt good during our tests but there were a number of situations where things just didn't fall into place. In the qualifying we weren't able to use the tires we wanted, for example. The strategy we went into today's race with seemed to be right on target, however. Though we got a lead in the early stages we knew that the tires would not last long, so the plan was to change drivers one-third of the way into the race. By starting with a full tank, we planned to shorten our pit time and get back on the track early. I trusted that if I was able to turn the wheel over to Shinichi in good position, he would be running on tires that were good for the conditions and we could get the win. The Garaiya car doesn't run as you would hope when it is carrying handicap weights, so we will have to think about unloading some of the weight as we win points steadily toward the title."

Shinichi Takagi: “I think things happened to go very well today (laughs). We were able to save time in the pit and push hard from the out-lap and then took the lead. After that, I was all alone in the front, so I don't really feel like I raced today (laughs). But it was still a tight race as the DAISHIN (No. 81) was moving up on me near the end."

SPORTSLAND SUGO : Race Report
Length : 3.704256km x 81Laps = 300.04474Km
Weather: Cloudy | Course : Dry

Po.	No.	Machine	Drivers	Times
GT - 500 Class - 81 Laps
1	18	TAKATA DOME NSX	R.Michigami/T.Kogure	1:50'12.743
2	35	houzan KRAFT SC430	P.Dumbreck/T.Kataoka	+00'19.751
3	38	ZENT CERUMO SC430	Y.Tachikawa/R.Lyons	+00'30.585
GT - 300 Class - 75 Laps
1	43	ARTA Garaiya	M.Nitta/S.Takagi	1:50'29.833
2	81	DAISHIN ADVAN Z	T.Aoki/T.Fujii	+00'06.485
3	31	DOUBLEHEAD avex apr MR-S	K.Mineo/Y.Sakamoto	+00'45.100

[Race Result]
http://ww2.supergt.net/gtcgi/prg/Nh1.dll/?No=NS010882

Images : 2008 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round 5





Data & image : Copyright © 2008 SUPERGT.net

[Source : SUPERGT PR. sec.]
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LANSING, Mich.- Discerning vehicle buyers in China are another step closer to experiencing what their U.S. counterparts have been raving about for the past year: the hot-selling Buick Enclave luxury crossover. Chinese officials visited the Lansing Delta Township Assembly Plant Thursday and Friday to observe operations in preparation for the manufacture of U.S.-built Enclaves crossovers for export to China. Pending approval, China-bound Enclaves could begin rolling off the assembly line as early as next month.



Buick announced last year it would expand its international reach following a four-year, $800 million (USD) agreement signed by General Motors and Shanghai GM (SGM) to export Enclaves to China beginning in the fourth quarter of 2008. Enclave will be imported by Shanghai GM and sold through a network of more than 400 Buick dealerships across China. The plant visit by Chinese Quality Certification Center and SGM officials is another step in this agreement.

Buick is one of the most well-known automobile brands in China, with more than 1.7 million Buick owners. Last year, Buick sold more than 300,000 units there and more than 567,000 worldwide, a 17,000-unit increase over 2006. Buick has a strong history in China, where Dr. Sun Yat-sen, a Chinese revolutionary hero, and Pu Yi, the last emperor of China, both owned Buicks.

"Our customers in China are going to fall in love with the Enclave's beauty, luxury and functionality in the same way that this vehicle has captivated buyers here," said Susan Docherty, vice president, Buick-Pontiac-GMC. "Buick has been a revered brand in China for more than 90 years, and Enclave is going to enhance our strong presence in the Chinese marketplace, providing an elegant and premium vehicle built in a world-class facility."

Enclave is Buick's first luxury crossover. Known for its elegant design, well-crafted and library-quiet interior, Enclave has segment-leading fuel economy and space to transport up to eight passengers plus their gear. It is one of GM's hottest-selling vehicles in North America, having sold more than 55,800 since launching in 2007. GM recently announced it was adding 7,000 units of additional Enclave production for the United States for the remainder of this year.

The Lansing Delta Township Assembly Plant, which opened in 2006, uses state-of-the-art manufacturing practices. Both the assembly plant and the contiguous stamping plant are certified to ISO 14001, an international voluntary set of environmental standards. In addition, it is the only manufacturing facility in the world that has achieved Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council's Green Building Rating System.

Images : 2009 Buick Enclave



[Source : Buick, GM]
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SINGAPORE — Isuzu ranks highest in overall new-vehicle sales satisfaction in the Philippines, according to the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2008 Philippines Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) Study released today.



Now in its eighth year, the study has been redesigned for 2008 and examines seven factors that contribute to overall satisfaction with sales experience. In order of importance, these factors are: delivery process; delivery timing; salesperson; paperwork; deal; sales initiation; and dealer facility.

Isuzu ranks highest in 2008, achieving an overall satisfaction index score of 853 on a 1,000-point scale. Isuzu performs particularly well in the areas of delivery timing and paperwork. Kia, included in the study for the first time in 2008, follows Isuzu in ranking with a score of 849. Also ranking above the industry average are Mitsubishi, Toyota and Mazda, respectively.

The study finds that while 85 percent of customers say they experienced no pressure during the purchase process, when customers report experiencing pressure, SSI scores are 37 points below the industry average. The types of pressure that have the greatest negative effect on customer satisfaction include: pressure to purchase a vehicle without the exact options desired by the customer; pressure to buy within the same day; and pressure to accept an inconvenient delivery time. By contrast, when customers experience no pressure during the sales process, satisfaction scores are 7 points higher than the industry average.

“In a pressure-free environment, vehicle buyers are able to make purchase decisions that will ultimately translate into higher levels of satisfaction,” said Taku Kimoto, general manager for the Philippines at J.D. Power Asia Pacific, Singapore. “For example, they are not hastened or pushed to accept vehicles that don’t meet their needs or expectations. In addition, when customers are able to discuss options with the salesperson, they are less likely to regret their decisions post-purchase.”

The study also finds that customers expect their vehicles to be delivered with all promised features, and that failure to do so can result in a considerable decline in satisfaction. Among customers whose vehicles do not contain the features they were promised satisfaction scores are 74 points below the industry average. Currently, 3 percent of customers report not receiving their vehicles with the promised features.

“The service standards that most vehicle manufacturers already provide set the stage for customer expectations regarding delivery of their new vehicle,” said Kimoto. “Customers not only expect to receive their new vehicle quickly and without hassle, but also, receiving their vehicles with the promised features is a ‘given.’ It is paramount that manufacturers ensure the fulfillment of their commitment to the customer. ”

In addition, customer satisfaction with the overall purchase experience has a strong impact on dealer advocacy. Approximately 75 percent of customers who report that they are highly satisfied with their overall experience say they ‘definitely would’ recommend the dealer where they purchased their vehicle to friends and relatives, compared with the industry average of 58 percent. Likewise, 71 percent of highly satisfied customers say they “definitely would” recommend their vehicle make, compared with the industry average (58%).

The 2008 Philippines Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) Study is based on the responses of more than 1,400 new-vehicle owners who purchased their vehicles between August 2007 and February 2008. The study was fielded between February and April 2008. The SSI study is one of two consumer-based studies conducted annually in the Philippines by J.D. Power Asia Pacific. The Philippines Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Study, which measures new-vehicle owner satisfaction with after-sales dealership service, will be released in late August 2008.

[Source : JD Power]
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TORRANCE, Calif.,07/25/2008 - American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced that Ron Yerxa and Annette Ballester took delivery of their hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCX Clarity on Friday, July 25, 2008 at Honda of Santa Monica, one of three dealerships in Southern California that are part of the first fuel cell vehicle dealership network. Yerxa and Ballester are the world's first FCX Clarity customers and the first of approximately 200 customers who will lease the vehicle in the United States and Japan over the next three years, with the vast majority of vehicles being leased in Southern California.



"The FCX Clarity lease program is one more step toward meeting the societal goals of climate stability, renewable energy supplies and zero-emissions transportation," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "With this key step, we are advancing toward the goal of broader commercialization," Mendel added. "Establishing a dedicated sales network and service infrastructure provides customers with the best balance of convenience and the highest level of satisfaction."

Significant advances over Honda's previous generation FCX include a 25 percent increase in combined fuel economy to 72 miles/kg-H2* (74 mpg GGE ) and a greater than 30 percent increase in driving range up to 280 miles*. The FCX Clarity is a next-generation, hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicle. Propelled by an electric motor that runs on electricity generated in the fuel cell, the vehicle's only emission is water, and its fuel efficiency is three times that of a modern gasoline-powered automobile.

*Based on official 2008 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle

[Source : Honda]
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2008 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round 5
SUGO GT300KM RACE Qualifying

On July 26, the qualifying for the “SUGO GT 300KM RACE," Round 5 of the 2008 AUTOBACS SUPER GT, took place at Sports land SUGO (one lap: 3.704 km) in Miyagi Prefecture. In the GT500 class, the TAKATA DOME NSX driven by Takashi Kogure won pole position as No.1 qualifier and will start from the front position in he race on the 27th.


In the morning's first qualifying session the track condition was complicated by wet patches remaining from last night's rain that caused a few machines to spin out. When the session had ended Takashi Kogure in the TAKATA DOME NSX had come through with the fastest lap time of 1 min. 16.935 sec. to put him tentative lead for the pole position and make him first among the ten qualifiers for the afternoon Super Lap (time trial run one machine at a time to decide the starting grid order).
After that, the rain that everyone had feared never fell and the track became completely dry for the afternoon Super Lap. Running last in the Super Lap, Kogure drove the TAKATA DOME NSX to an even faster time of 1 min. 16.697 sec. to keep his position as the fastest qualifier. This gave the TAKATA DOME NSX the pole position.
Or the TAKATA DOME NSX team this is their second pole position of the 2008 series, following the one in round three. It is also their second PP in two consecutive years here at the SUGO round.
In the GT300 class the pole position went to the WedsSport IS350 driven by Manabu Orido with a time of 1 min. 23.938 sec. This is also the first GT pole position for new Lexus IS350 since it began full-fledged competition in round three of this season.

SPORTSLAND SUGO
Length : 3.704256km | Weather: Cloudy | Course : Dry
SUPER LAP TOP 3

Po.	No.	Machine	Drivers	Times
GT - 500 Class
1	18	TAKATA DOME NSX	R.Michigami/*T.Kogure	1'16.697
2	17	REAL NSX	K.Kaneishi/T.Kaneishi	1'17.013
3	1	ARTA NSX	R.Firman/T.Izawa	1'17.534
GT - 300 Class
1	19	WedsSport IS350	*M.Orido/T.Abe	1'23.938
2	43	ARTA Garaiya	M.Nitta/*S.Takagi	1'23.985
3	41	JIMCENTER ADVAN F430	*T.Tanaka/M.Ueda	1'24.252

*=Driver running the Super Lap

[Full : Qualifying result]

Data & image : Copyright © 2008 SUPERGT.net

[Source : SUPERGT PR. sec.]
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July 25th, 2008, Mongol Els - Ulaanbaatar,368 km.

Team France captures overall victory of the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson

Final 14th stage
Liaison 1: 75 km
1. Special stage: 85 km
Liaison 2: 178 km
2. Special stage: 14 km

The morning program of the last leg contained a fast special stage of 85 km length. The route led from the Mongol Els sand dunes, through the green steppe past yurts and droves, into the nature-sanctuary Khustayn Uul.



Team Germany 1 won today's special stage in 54:53 minutes, ahead of Team Russia 1 (+ 0:06:00). For Schwarz/Schulz this was the sixth daily victory during the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson. The experienced pilots had resolved a lot for the final leg. With 170 km/h (106 mph) they swept past the nine cars which had started ahead of them and exhibited their skills. They didn't catch up with the Spaniards though. "Fortunately the stretch was only 85 km long, or Armin Schwarz would probably have caught up to us", said Pau Soler at the finish. With a lag time of 7:15 minutes Team Spain came in third in the evaluation. The French Christian Lavieille and Francois Borsotto ended the special stage in sixth place (+ 0:10:47) and confidently defended the lead in the overall standings.

During the course of the day a liaison of 75 km followed, before the last segment of the rally finally began. Eleven kilometers through winding, hilly off-road terrain and a spectacular crossing of the Tuul Gol River. Team France drove across the finish-line ahead of Team Spain. The Danner Racing Team followed, not by land, but afloat in the river, from which Christof Danner could free his Mercedes G 320 only narrowly. "That wasn't a show, but real work. We navigated wrong and before we knew it, the water had carried us away", said Danner after the completion of the stage.

Team France with Christian Lavieille and Francois Borsotto, who were able to defend their lead in the overall standings for five stages till the finish, celebrated their Transsyberia premiere. "We're super happy that we won and want to thank Porsche France for making our participation possible. The Transsyberia ist something special. Many different stages for driver and navigator. The Transsyberia is wonderful", beamed pilot Christian Lavieille, who maneuvered his Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia securely, fast and with little wear through valleys and over mountains, through swamps and across steppe.

Team Spain captured second place in the overall standings with a lag of about two hours to Team France. Navigator Laia Paneido was beside herself with happiness: "I can't believe it yet and I didn't dare hope for it either." Driver Pau Soler was also visibly pleased with the outcome: "I am totally happy. Before the rally we resolved to be at least as good as last year, where we were fifth. That was difficult, because the Transsyberia had ten very good teams this time, which were all capable of driving in the front. The standard was much higher than in 2007. That we're now second, ahead of Armin Schwarz, is excellent." The Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson had however started with some adversities for the Spaniards. "When we were towed to the destination on the first day, we naturally thought it was a disaster. But we stayed calm and we knew our stages are yet to come. In Russia the trials are short, there's less to navigate, but more to drive. I'm not a professional rally driver, so the stages in Mongolia were more our thing.", said Soler.

Team Germany 1 (+ 2:21:14 hours) landed in third place and is on the podium of the rally for the first time. "The key to our success was that we drove fast continiously. Damage can occur quickly, as we experienced yesterday. That's why it's important to always keep at it and never give up", analyzed pilot Armin Schwarz. His navigator Andreas Schulz added: "All in all we liked the rally. Ultimately it wasn't difficult to navigate, provided one was concentrating."

Team Portugal with Pedro Gameiro and co-driver Pedro Figueiredo, who had been leading for a long time while in Russia, reached the 4th place in the overall standings with a lag time of almost three hours. Pilot Gameiro gave a positive review: "The long stages in Mongolia got to us. We took part in the Transsyberia for the first time and didn't have any experience. In addition, Pedro and I drove as a team for the first time. It worked out really well! With the Spaniards and us, Porsche Iberica has two teams in the Top 4. We're proud of it."

After 15 days, 14 stages, 12 special stages and 7200 kilometers, 21 of the 34 teams, who originally set out, reached the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar. There the winners will be elected this evening and plans for 2009 might be made, when the Transsyberia Rally will once again run through Russia and Mongolia.

Result : Overall results

Daily Standing | Overall Standing | Daily Standing by Cat.| Overall Standing by Cat.

Images gallery : Final stage : Mongol Els - Ulaanbaatar






All images are copyright © Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson

[Source : Official 2008 Transsyberia Rally]
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British International Motor Show : Nissan and Toyota are pouring resources into eco-friendly car programmes in a bid to become the 'green' brands of choice for 21st century consumers. And while both manufacturers are working on a variety of battery-electric, hybrid and fuel-cell programmes, the Japanese rivals are taking a subtly different approach.



For Toyota, hybrids are the future as it continues to build on the success of the Prius. But Nissan is concentrating on battery technology through its partnership with Japanese battery-maker NEC.

Toyota UK managing director Miguel Fonseca said future Toyota hybrids would continue to use petrol rather than diesel for the internal combustion element of the drivetrain. "Petrol has better efficiency at high RPM than diesel, while electric motors are better at low revs," he said. So, while European rivals such as Volkswagen and Peugeot are pursuing diesel hybrids, Toyota is sticking to petrol.

Fonseca said Toyota was still working on a 'miniaturised' hybrid drivetrain for its new iQ city car, which will go on sale before the end of the year with conventional petrol or diesel engines. "The problem with iQ is it's so well packaged for its size it's difficult to accommodate a full hybrid drivetrain," said Fonseca.

Meanwhile Nissan displayed a battery-electric prototype of its Japanese market Cube city car. This won't be coming to Europe - but Nissan will commercialise an electric car before the end of 2010, thanks to advances in lithium ion battery technology, said Pierre Loing, vice-president of product planning.

"European sales will start in 2011, and we would like to be mass producing electric cars - not just one or two hundred - by 2012," he said. Nissan has already piloted an electric city car in Japan called the Hypermini, and much of that technology will transfer to the new car - which will be an all-new model, not just an EV derivative of an existing model.

Bringing EVs to market relies on "one or two technical breakthroughs" taking place - principally in terms of recharge cycles for the lithium ion batteries. Also part of the plan is Nissan's so-called "supermotor" - effectively two electric motors in one that can drive both front wheels, rather than having separate motors driving each wheel.

"Nissan's first-generation European EV will be able to seat four or five adults and have a range of 100 miles [160km]," said Loing. Plus Li-Ion batteries will allow an 80% recharge in around 20-25 minutes. Ultimately, Nissan will have a line-up of electric cars, as well as plug-in hybrids and fuel-cell cars, which will not be available until "no earlier than 2015".

[Source : Just Auto .. sub req.]
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VALENCIA, Spain - Audi hopes its new Q5 SUV will help win new customers to the brand from volume manufacturers.



The German automaker expects to win sales at the expense of volume brand models such as Toyota´s RAV4, Michael Renz, Audi head of central marketing, told Automotive News Europe at a press event here.

"Obviously we are still targeting the premium SUVs like the BMW X3 or the Mercedes-Benz GLK, but we expect to draw some customers from the volume segment as well," Renz said.

He identified the Volvo XC 60 as the other main competitor for the Q5. Renz said that volume-brand customers would be attracted to the Q5 because of its "sporty design and handling."

The Q5 is positioned below the larger Q7 and will share a platform with Audi´s upper-premium A4 sedan.

It goes on sale in Europe this autumn. U.S. sales begin in the first quarter of 2009, with China following in the second quarter.

Prices start at 38,300 euros in Germany.

[Source : Automotive News Europe .. sub req.]
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MARLOW - July 24, 2008: Volvo Car UK can now announce full technical and specification details for the new XC60 crossover which arrives in dealer showrooms this autumn1. The XC60 is available to order now with prices starting at ?24,750 OTR for the 2.4D S model and offers innovative standard features such as a low speed autobrake City Safety and versatile 40/20/40 split folding rear seats as well as sub 200g/km CO₂ engine options.



Performance and technical specifications
The new Volvo XC60 launches with three engine variants - two diesels and one petrol. Six speed manual transmission is standard on both the 2.4D and D5 turbo diesel powerplants with six speed Geartronic available as a ?1,400 option, while the high performance T6 petrol engine is available in six speed Geartronic guise only.

The frugal 163PS 2.4D and 185PS D5 variants with manual transmission both deliver 37.7mpg on a combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 199g/km. Joining the manual in VED band F is the Geartronic version, at 219g/km. The popular D5 diesel engine generates 400Nm torque at 2000-2750rpm, while the entry level 2.4D offers 340Nm torque at 1750-2750rpm. The 285PS T6 petrol is capable of a top speed of 130mph and offers a brisk 0 to 60 performance of 7.1 seconds, while delivering 400Nm torque from 1500 to 4800rpm. Fuel consumption is 23.7mpg with CO₂ emissions of 284g/km.

Equipment levels
With three trim levels, S, SE and SE Lux, available, the entry-level S model comes with all the high quality features you would expect from Volvo including front fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails and rear spoiler; while interior details include electronic climate control, information centre, cruise control, leather steering wheel with remote audio controls, brushed aluminium trim and a performance sound audio system with aux input and CD player. The award winning Volvo City Safety technology is joined by a full suite of standard safety equipment including RSC (Roll Stability Control), ROPS (Roll Over Protection System) and WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System).

The SE specification enhances equipment levels with the addition of Hill Descent Control, electric driver's seat with three memory functions and Autofolding power door mirrors with ground lights. Added luxury also includes Eriksberg T-Tec/Textile upholstery and autodimming rear view mirrors with compass and chrome window trim.

The SE Lux is the ultimate in Swedish luxury, featuring chronographic instrument dials, leather upholstery, Nordic Light Oak natural wood trim and both front seats are both powered and heated. Further enhancements include luxury floor mats and chrome detailing. 18-inch alloy wheels, active bending headlamps, power tailgate and rear park assist are also all standard.

Styling and options
The Volvo XC60 will be available in 13 different exterior colours including the new Terra Bronze and Lime Grass Green metallic and the interior benefits from the finest materials and superb stitching to give a high quality finish. Upholstery includes Lomma textile available in S models, Eriksberg T-Tec/Textile in SE specifications and leather-faced in the top of the range SE Lux. Colours include Off-Black and Soft Beige, while those opting for leather-faced will have the choice of Off-Black with the new striking Lemon Green and Soft Beige with Espresso Brown. To complement the interior themes, three inlays are available to choose from including Brushed Aluminium, Classic Wood and Nordic Light Oak.

Volvo's popular option packages are also available, including the Communications, Family and Winter Packs, plus the new Driver Support Pack which includes a host of Volvo's safety aids including BLIS (Blind Sport Information System), ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) and LDW (Lane Departure Warning).

Go configure!
Customers can configure their own Volvo XC60 online in the 'Build Your Own' section of the Volvo website. The configuration tool allows customers to build and price a vehicle to their personal choice of engine, trim level, colour, upholstery and options.

Images : 2009 Volvo XC60








[Source : Volvo UK]
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TURIN : Tata Motors Ltd is open to Italy's Fiat SpA helping to sell the ultra-cheap Nano model overseas, Chairman Ratan Tata said on Tuesday.



Tatas plans to launch the Nano later this year, priced at about $2,500. "We have held talks about the Nano being marketed in markets where Fiat has already a strong presence. I am open to consider a partnership," he told a news conference at a forum promoting cooperation between Italian and Indian companies.

Fiat has a joint venture with Tata to manufacture and distribute cars, engines and commercial vehicles.
Tata also said the Tata group was in talks with Italian defence and aerospace company Finmeccanica SpA about supplying helicopter parts.

Fiat Chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo said the company was in talks with Tata about making buses and trucks."We'll see if there are the conditions for us to go forward," he told reporters on the margins of the forum.

The head of Fiat's Iveco truck unit told an Italian newspaper in May he expected to resume talks with Tata on possible accords after the India partner completed its acquisition of Jaguar and Land Rover.

Cordero di Montezemolo also said he was "very optimistic" about second-quarter results due to be released on Wednesday.

[Source : The Economic Times]
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July 24th, 2008, Bayankhongor - Mongol Els, 339 km.


Spanish team wins the day - Germany 1 falls behind - Team France extends lead in the overall standings

13th stage of 14
Liaison 1: 14 km
Special stage: 172 km
Liaison 2: 105 km.

The Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson is drawing to a close. On the way to the destination Ulaanbaatar the 13th stage took place today. It led for 339 km from Bayankhongor into the sand dunes of Mongol Els in the province Middlegobi.



After lots of dust, a special stage containing water was lined up. Before the start, many drivers, who took part in the rally last year, were looking forward to today's special stage. Others fostered unpleasant memories of 2007, when they took a bath with their car. "I have respect for the rapid waters in Mongolia. At home in Spain we don't have those. I was happy that the water was only one meter deep today", said Laia Paneido, navigator of Team Spain at the destination.

Last night the organizers already shortened the special stage a few kilometers because the tow and rescue vehicles wouldn't have been able to get through the last section due to the water level. Consequently, the teams were left with 172 km. The stretch led along the Shargaljuut River and Mountain through impressive nature, into the vicinity of the former Mongolian capital Karakorum.

After 3:16:30 hours Pau Soler and Laia Paneido (Team Spain) crossed the finish-line first in their Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia and moved up in the overall standings from third to second place. Christian Lavieille and Francois Borsotto (Team France) defended their lead in the overall standings. With a lag of 5:09 minutes they landed in third place at today's special stage. Team France appeared reluctant: "We doing well, we had no problems with the car. It would be nice, if we could bring the rally victory to Ulaanbaatar."

Electronic problems threw the fivefold daily winner Armin Schwarz from the second to the third place in the overall standings. For to date unexplained reasons the car didn't react the way it used to. With the help of another team, Team Germany 1 made it into 11th place in the daily standings.

Today's stage primarily belonged to the outsider teams. With a lag of 4:31 minutes, the Austrian Christof Danner secured the second place in the daily standings. "For a while the Transsyberia seemed jinxed for us. A lot of small unforeseeable malfunctions, which all had to be repaired by us in the evening, after the stages. Now it's working!", explained the pilot of the Danner Racing Team and added: "I was one with the car, we really got along well." Diligently Danner kept pulling ahead of teams, who had started ahead of him, overtook Team France in muddy terrain and followed the towing maneuver between Team Germany 1 and Team USA, while passing by.

Suzuki pilot Andreas Kramer seemed satisfied too. "We would've made minimum time today", the pilot was sure. After starting in 16th position, the Suzuki Team kept moving ahead. "In the end we had five Porsche in tow who followed our tracks." A few kilometers before the destination, co-pilot Ettenberger however made a navigation mistake and the crew got stuck in a swamp, from which they were able to free themselves on their own though. " That definitely cost us seven minutes", said Kramer. In the end it was enough for 5th place (+ 0:09:35).

Panos Meyer and Birger Veit got their best daily results to date in their Land Rover Defender 90. To be on the safe side, the JoeVito Team had mounted a floating tire to their car in the morning, but it didn't come into operation. "We managed the water without it", the pilots said pleased.

Today Team Germany 2 was, above all, occupied with recovering other teams. First Carles Celma and Wolf-Hendrik Unger towed Armin Schwarz's car out of the mud, then they helped the Columbian Team Arrow change a tire and finally they towed the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia of Ryan Millen into the next village. There, nothing worked any longer, so the car of Team USA was loaded onto a tow truck with transmission damage and brought to camp.

Yesterday's third-placed Adel Abdulla and Norbert Lutteri from Team Qatar couldn't start today. The damage to their car which occured during yesterday's stage couldn't be repaired overnight.

July 23rd, 2008, Altai - Bayankhongor, 519 km.


Team Germany 1 wins longest special stage of the Transsyberia

12th stage of 14
Liaison 1: 10 km
Special stage: 407 km
Liaison 2: 102 km

With 407 km, today's longest special stage of the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson took place under sunny azure skies. The entire leg ran for 529 kilometers from the village of Altai to the district of Bayankhongor.

Mechanics and service crews worked all night in order to prepare the cars for the long stage. 24 of the former 34 teams, who started off in Moscow, were able to accept today's challenge. Before the start, the organizer Richard Schalber said: "It proves true that the Transsyberia is the most difficult rally in the world."

Team Germany 1 continued its winning streak. Just as they did yesterday, duo Armin Schwarz/Andreas Schulz arrived first at the destination. The day's winner was in an extremely good mood in the camp: "On this terrain, one can easily overlook something. In the steppe one is fast, and then suddenly a ditch appears, which the water has torn. We didn't go full throttle, because on easily overlook those kind of traps. Andi did a perfect job today. We gave everything that was difficult a wide berth and could therefore play out our speed", said Schwarz in the evening. In the overall standings, Team Germany 1 kept closing in on the leading Christian Lavieille and Francois Borsotto (Team France) who crossed the finish line in sixth. (+ 0:34:53). "To catch up with the French is pretty much impossible. They're a well-rehearsed team with off-road and Dakar experience. They don't make any navigation mistakes and they don't damage their car. In order for us to catch up with them before Ulaanbaatar, they would have to make a really crass mistake", stated Schwarz. The distance of Team Germany 1 to Team France is 1:24:54 hours.

Other placements: Pilot Pau Soler (Team Spain) steered his car about 20 minutes behind Schwarz/Schulz into second place. Thanks to the accomplished navigation by co-pilot Laia Peinado the Spaniards pushed into third place in the overall standings.

About nine kilometers before the destination, Team Qatar drove into a hidden cross groove at high speed. They broke the rear suspension of the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia as a result. Adel Abdulla and Norbert Lutteri rolled over the finish line on three wheels (+ 0:32:01). The mechanics will have another long night, in order to get the car of last year's third placed ready for tomorrow's special stage and river crossings.

After yesterday's setback, Team Portugal was on the road to success again today. In the special stage, Pedro Gameiro and Pedro Figueiredo drove into fourth place (+ 0:32:36).

The Danner Racing Team is satisfied with the course of the day. With his Mercedes G 320 the Austrian Christof Danner reached the destined camp near Bayankhongor in 1:06:14 hours (9th place). "After the malfunctions it was about time! The repairs were worth it. The stretch was variable, we were always on the move and we didn't get lost", navigator Jan Szekeres stated satisfied. "I just had to slow Christoph down, when the helicopter with the TV crew and the photographers flew over us. He automatically sped up to present himself well. But I had to still follow the drawings in the road book and apply them", said Szekeres.

The day turned out less satisfactory for Lars Kern and Daniel van Kan (Team Germany 3). Yesterday's second placed weren't able to continue the stage due to presumed engine failure and were towed into the camp.

Navigation and technical ability played as important a part during the fourth section in the Mongolia, as did endurance and team spirit in the cockpit. Lots of grooves, potholes and hidden ditches hampered the crossing of the terrain. The heat and dust made matters worse. In addition, the last segment led uphill through a silty riverbed, which was barely wider than the cars of the rally participants. In other passages, the wide Mongolian plain invited high speeds. Some teams saw this as an opportunity to overtake at high tempo and make some places good. "Attack was the only chance to play in the upper league of the rally again", said Ryan Millen (Team USA), who lost several hours yesterday.

Tomorrow the second to last stage of the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson, takes place. It runs for 339 km to Mongol Els, before, on Friday, the final destination of the rally, Ulaanbaatar, is focused on.

Result :

Daily Standing | Overall Standing | Overall Standing by Categories.

Images Gallery :

July 24th, 2008 Bayankhor - Mongol Els, 339 km.




July 23th, 2008 Altai - Bayankhongor, 519 km.




July 22th, 2008 Darvi - Altay, 358 km.








All images are copyright © Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson

[Source : Official 2008 Transsyberia Rally]
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ARLINGTON, VA, July 24, 2008 — Small pickups aren't providing as much protection in side crashes as many new cars and SUVs. The Toyota Tacoma was the only one of five small pickup trucks, all 2008 models, to earn the highest rating of good for occupant protection in recent side crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Frontier are rated marginal, and the Chevrolet Colorado is rated poor in the side test, which simulates a side impact from an SUV or another pickup.



"More people may be looking at small pickups because of rising gas prices," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "Unfortunately, they won't find many that afford state-of-the-art crash protection. Most earn dismal ratings for protecting people in side crashes, and all but the Tacoma and Frontier lack electronic stability control, which is a key feature in preventing crashes. Until they improve, most small pickups aren't good choices for people looking for safe transportation."

Tacoma earns the only good rating in side test: Performance in side tests is important because side impacts are the second most common type of fatal crash, killing nearly 9,000 occupants in 2006. The Tacoma's side airbags did a good job of reducing forces on the driver dummy and the passenger dummy in the back seat in the Institute's test. The curtain-style airbag that deployed from the roof above the side windows protected the dummies' heads from being struck by any hard structures, and the risk of significant injury to the head/neck and chest was low. Measures recorded on the driver dummy indicate a fracture of the pelvis would be possible in a real-world crash of this severity. The Tacoma's structure held up reasonably well, preventing major intrusion into the occupant compartment.

The Tacoma also is rated good for frontal crash protection, but its seat/head restraints earn the second lowest rating of marginal for protection against whiplash in rear-end crashes. If Toyota improves the Tacoma's rear crash rating, this manufacturer would have the only two pickup models to earn the Institute's Top Safety Pick award so far. The other is Toyota's Tundra, a large pickup truck.

The Tacoma is the only pickup in the group of small models that was tested with side airbags, which are optional in 2008 models. When side airbags are optional, the Institute's policy is to test a vehicle without the option. An auto manufacturer may request a second test with the airbags if the automaker reimburses the Institute for the cost of the vehicle. Manufacturers of the Dakota, Frontier, and Colorado didn't request second tests (side airbags aren't offered in the Ranger, even as options). The Tacoma was tested only with its optional side airbags, an exception to normal policy because such airbags will be standard in 2009 Tacoma pickups being shipped to dealers this month.

"We assume the other manufacturers don't expect their vehicles to perform much better, even with the optional side airbags," Lund says. "In contrast, Toyota is ahead of its competitors in making the latest safety equipment standard on small pickups. Consumers shouldn't have to choose safety from an options list, and they shouldn't buy any vehicle that isn't equipped with side airbags and electronic stability control."

In 2008 side airbags are standard in more than 65 percent of new vehicle models, and manufacturers have pledged to make such airbags standard across their fleets by the 2010 model year. A federal side impact standard that essentially will require side airbags goes into effect in the 2015 model year.

High death rates: Small pickup trucks have the highest driver death rates of any vehicles on the road, including minicars. In 2006 small pickups experienced 116 driver deaths per million registered vehicles 1-3 years old. This compares with 106 for minicars, 99 for small cars, and 42 for small SUVs. Part of the reason is that small pickup trucks are more likely than other passenger vehicles to be involved in single-vehicle crashes, especially rollovers.

Electronic stability control is a feature that can help prevent crashes, but it's not available on many pickups. It's standard on 12 percent of 2008 pickups, and it's not available at all on 67 percent. In contrast it's standard on 64 percent of cars and 95 percent of SUVs. The only pickups in this group of small models with available electronic stability control are the Tacoma and Frontier. Toyota has made this feature standard on the Tacoma starting with 2009 models. It's also standard on the 2009 Colorado and GMC Canyon.

"We would expect electronic stability control to significantly reduce the single-vehicle crash risk in small pickups," Lund says. "It's a lifesaving feature that should be standard on all of these vehicles."

Worst performer is the Chevrolet Colorado: Also sold as the GMC Canyon, this model was the only one to earn the lowest rating of poor in the Institute's side test. The driver dummy's head was hit by the top of the Institute's moving barrier during the impact. Plus the side structure of the Colorado allowed a lot more intrusion into the occupant compartment than the other pickups.

In addition to the side tests, new frontal offset crash tests were conducted for the Colorado and Dakota. While the Dakota earned a good rating, the Colorado is rated acceptable overall for occupant protection in frontal crashes. In the frontal test of the Colorado, intrusion by the tire and wheel into the driver footwell area combined with separation of the footwell from the doorsill trapped the driver dummy's left foot underneath the brake pedal. The pedal had to be cut off to free the foot. This entrapment resulted in a structural rating downgrade for the Colorado. Still, injury measures for the dummy's head, neck, and chest were low.

Back jump seats of Ranger aren't safe for children: All of the small pickup trucks the Institute recently tested, except the Ford Ranger, are crew cabs with bench seats in back. Instead of this, the Ranger is equipped with two side-facing jump seats too small for anyone but very small adults or children. This pickup's side rating of marginal applies only to front-seat occupants.

The Institute doesn't recommend riding in jump seats. Aside from lack of space, jump seats just have lap belts. A study conducted by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that children riding in the small back seats of pickup trucks like the Ranger are about 4 times as likely to be injured in crashes as those in the back seats of other vehicles.

How vehicles are evaluated: The Institute's frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Each vehicle's overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.

Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on two instrumented SID-IIs dummies, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle's structural performance during the impact.

Rear crash protection is rated according to a two-step procedure. Starting points for the ratings are measurements of head restraint geometry — the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average-size man. Seat/head restraints with good or acceptable geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck.

Result chart : click on chart to enlarge



[Source : IIHS]
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SEOUL - Production at GM Daewoo Auto & Technology's main Bupyeong plant in South Korea resumed Tuesday, July 22, after a price dispute with tire suppliers halted lines there.

Korean tire makers Kumho Tires Co. Inc. and Hankook Tire Co. Ltd. stopped delivering tires to GM Daewoo on July 18 because the automaker would not agree to higher tire prices. The suppliers say rising material costs necessitate the increase.



Later the same day, a Seoul court agreed with an injunction filed by GM Daewoo to lift the suspension of tire supplies. The tire makers complied four days later.

GM Daewoo estimates it lost production of 3,000 Aveo compacts and 1,200 Epica sedans, both of which are exported as Chevrolets to North America and Europe. The Epica is sold in Canada.

GM Daewoo gets more than 85 percent of its tires from the two tire makers.

In March, GM Daewoo agreed to a 5.5 percent price increase on tires from the two companies, according to Kumho. But a follow-up request July 1 for an additional 12 percent was too much for the automaker. In a statement, GM Daewoo said the move violated local trade laws, as well as its long-term contracts that include fixed prices.

GM Daewoo made an "exceptional concession" in the case of the first price increase and did so out of consideration of rising material prices, according to a statement.

Kang Kyu-jin, a Kumho spokesperson, said the tire maker's contract with GM Daewoo does not prevent Kumho from raising prices. Kumho will look into further legal options and has no choice but to seek an increase, given a 50 percent boost in raw material prices, Kang said.

"We do not want to be portrayed as taking a hard-line stance," he said. "We just want to say we have no choice but to raise supply prices. We have been pushed to the edge."

Hankook Tire says that since March, its costs have risen 40 percent. Most of that comes from oil and rubber price increases.

Said Hankook spokesperson Calvin Pak: "We don't have long-term contracts, like GM Daewoo has with us, with our global suppliers."

[Source : Automotive News .. Sub req.]
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BEIJING - Hyundai Motor Co. has adjusted the positioning of a small car to be launched in China. Instead of developing a model to win market share from Chinese carmakers, it has decided to launch one to compete with other international brands.



Hyundai's r&d center in South Korea was previously developing an entry level small car especially for China and India to compete with indigenous small car markers in these two markets.

But the company has lately altered the plan's part regarding the China market.

The small car was initially targeted at a range of $5,000-$6,000 two years ago.

But under the revised plan, it will be positioned between the Accent and the Elantra compact sedans in terms of pricing, says Jake Jang, a spokesman of Hyundai in South Korea.

In mid-July, the starting suggested retail price of the Accent in China is 71,800 yuan ($10,516), while the Elantra starts at 89,000 yuan ($13,039).

Hyundai changed its small car plan for cost considerations.

As production costs keep rising, Hyundai has realized it is difficult to compete with Chinese automakers on low cost cars without compromising product quality and brand image, says Jang.

Under Hyundai's plan, the small car will compete with the 1.4- and 1.6-liter Lova of Shanghai GM Dongyue Motors Co., the 1.3- and 1.6-liter Vios of Tianjin FAW Toyota Motor Co., says a supplier source close to the project.

In mid-July, the starting suggested retail prices of the Lova and the Vios are 74,900 yuan ($10,972) and 95,000 yuan ($13,917), respectively.

By contrast, prices of domestic models with similar sizes are much lower. For example, the Geely's Freedom Ship has a starting price of below 50,000 yuan ($7,325).

Production of the small car is slated to begin in 2010 in Beijing Hyundai Motor Co., a 50-50 joint venture between Hyundai Motor and Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Corp. (BAIC), says Jang.

Planned production volume of the model is more than 100,000 per year, says the supplier source. The car will be fitted with a 1.4-liter engine or a 1.6-liter engine. It will offer both four-door and five-door versions, he adds.

"The model will be produced in Hyundai's first plant in Beijing as a substitute for the Accent, which isn't selling well," says the Hyundai supplier source.

The Accent has two engine options: 1.4-liter and 1.6-liter. Sales of the Accent in 2007 slumped 37 percent to 26,665 units in China, according to Automotive Resources Asia, a unit of J. D. Power and Associates.

But a source at Hyundai's public relations office in South Korea says Beijing Hyundai will not cease producing the Accent after this new model is released.

Beijing Hyundai has started selecting suppliers for the new model, says a source with BAIC.

Beijing Hyundai expects to sell 380,000 vehicles in China in 2008. Its sales climbed 47 percent year-on-year to 164,793 in the first half of this year, according to figures released by the company.

Beijing Hyundai plans to launch a face-lifted Sonata NF sedan in the second half of this year and the i30 hatchback in the first half of 2009, says a spokesman of Beijing Hyundai.

[Source : Automotive News China ..Sub req.]
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DETROIT - Ford Motor Co. said today its operations lost $1.38 billion in the second quarter as high gasoline prices drove consumers away from its big trucks. The company earned $258 million during the same quarter of 2007.



The company also said it took an $8 billion loss for reducing the value of various troubled assets, bringing the total net loss for the quarter to $8.67 billion.

In response to the downturn, Ford announced it will add six small European vehicles to the North American lineup and convert three large truck and SUV plans to small cars beginning this December.

Ford also said it will revitalize the Mercury product lineup by the end of 2010. With no new products on the long-term horizon, the survival of the Mercury brand had been in doubt.

Ford also confirmed it would continue production of the Ranger small pickup truck at the Twin Cities assembly plant in Minnesota through 2011.

The company's revised turnaround plan also calls for doubling its capacity to produce four-cylinder engines in North America by 2011. The company said its hybrid vehicle lineup, and production, will double in 2009.

In the financial report, Ford said the special charges for troubled assets included a $5.30 billion charge for Ford North America.

The North American unit posted a $1.3 billion pre-tax loss in the quarter compared with a $270 million loss during the same period a year ago.

Ford said it posted a pre-tax profit of $582 million in Europe during the quarter, up from $262 million. It also turned profits in Asia and South America. The Volvo unit lost $120 million compared with a loss of $91 million a year ago.

Ford ended the second quarter with $26.6 billion cash, down $10.8 billion from a year ago.

Ford said it posted second quarter revenue, excluding special items, of $38.6 billion compared with $44.2 billion during the same quarter last year. When removing the the recently sold Jaguar, Land Rover and Aston Martin units from 2007 results, Ford said its revenue would have been "down slightly."

Transit Connect coming to North America


Ford CEO Alan Mulally said the progress Ford has made to create one global product development strategy gives the company the flexibility to respond to the changing market conditions in the United States.

"We are in a stronger position than ever to leverage Ford's global assets and continue to address the pressures facing us in North America," he said in a conference call with journalists today.

Ford announced that Mercury will get a new small car in 2010 and that a new European small vehicle will be a "whitespace" entry in North America in 2010.

The company also reconfirmed that it will:

• Add the European Transit Connect small van to the North American lineup in mid-2009.
  
• Add a new Lincoln seven-passenger crossover. It will arrive in 2009, Ford said today.
  
• Add the European Ford Fiesta in sedan and five-door hatchback versions in early 2010.
  
• Switch over to a new European Ford Focus in sedan and five-door hatchback versions in 2010.
  
• Build a unibody version of the next-generation Ford Explorer. It will arrive in 2010 and improve fuel economy by up to 25 percent.

Plant conversions

Ford said it will convert its Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, Mich., over to small-car production in 2010. Ford didn't identify the vehicles, but said they would be derived from its global C-car or Focus-sized platform. Ford already assembles the Focus at a neighboring factory in Wayne.

Production of the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator large SUVs currently built at the Wayne truck plant will move to the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Ky., early next year.

Ford announced that another assembly plant in Louisville, Ky., will switch over from building the Explorer SUV to producing more C-sized small cars beginning in 2011.

The third truck plant to be converted to small cars is in Cuautitlan, Mexico. Ford previously announced that move. The plant, which currently makes F-series pickups, will begin building the Fiesta small car in early 2010.

And the Ranger compact pickup will remain in the lineup for at least two more years than previously planned. The Minnesota assembly plant that makes the Ranger will continue production through 2011. It previously had been scheduled to close in 2009.

Along with the realignments, Ford is offering another round of targeted buyouts to hourly workers at its U.S. plants and facilities. Ford said it is on track to reduce salaried personnel costs by 15 percent in North America by Aug. 1.

More Ford Transit related post : New Ford Transit Connect sportvan prices announced

[Source : Automotive News .. Sub req.]
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• UK show debut for Saab Concept cars
  
• Saab XWD is given a broader appeal - teamed with 2.0 litre turbo engine
  
• Top-of-the-line Aero 2.8V6 Turbo engine uprated
  
• The new Saab 9-5 Turbo edition
  
• Saab showcases BioPower variants

Concept cars

Saab's much talked about concept cars, will be presented for the first time in the UK at the British International Motorshow. The Saab 9-4X BioPower and the Saab 9-X BioHybrid signal Saab's commitment to expanding its product portfolio. Both concepts share distinctive Scandinavian styling themes and feature further developments in Saabs technological lead in combining turbocharging with Saab BioPower.

Saab's full UK model range will also be on display, including the most recent addition to the line-up, the 9-3 2.0T XWD with 210 hp.

UK première: Saab 9-4X BioPower
Signaling Saab's intention to enter the global Crossover vehicle segment, the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept is designed to appeal to environmentally aware customers with outdoor leisure interests who seek a vehicle that combines practicality with a sporty driving experience.

The Saab 9-X BioHybrid is an expressive vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like. Key themes are progressive design and responsible performance, backed by innovative, 'high-tech' features appealing to younger car buyers typical of the premium compact segment. Main highlights include :

• Evolution of Aero X and 9X concepts with extended roofline, clean fuselage body
  
• 200 hp, 1.4-liter BioPower engine combined with efficient energy use: rightsizing, turbocharging, bioethanol and hybrid technology
  
• New Saab cockpit focus includes driver's door molding for information displays
  
• Easy, seamless access to in-car wireless connectivity for nomadic devices
  
• Potential for active aerodynamics with moveable rear body panels
  
• Unique 'high friction' cargo carrying with rising floor bars for easy loading

Saab 9-X BioHybrid
An expressive vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like, the Saab 9-X BioHybrid majors on progressive design, efficient performance and 'high-tech' features that typically appeal to youthful buyers.

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept announces Saab's imminent entry into the growing Crossover vehicle segment. It is focused on customers with outdoor leisure interests who seek a sporty driving experience together with the enjoyment of responsible performance. Highlights include :

• Dynamic looks with Aero X - inspired frontal and interior styling themes
  
• State-of-the-art Saab XWD delivers fun-to-drive, car-like agility
  
• 2.0-liter, 300 hp BioPower engine: strong rightsizing performance with a reduced overall CO₂ impact from bioethanol fuel
  
• Innovative ski stowage system developed with Saab/Salomon skiers

Production Cars

Saab XWD is given a broader appeal - teamed with 2.0 litre turbo engine
Saab's widely-acclaimed all-wheel-drive system - Saab XWD - is given a broader appeal in the latest 9-3 Sport Saloon and Sport wagon range by being teamed with classic Saab four-cylinder turbo power, in addition to the current 2.8V6 turbo application.

The Model Year 2009 Saab 9-3 Saloon and SportWagon line-up now features XWD as an option for 210 hp, 2.0-litre turbo Aero models, in addition to the top-of-the-range Aero 280 hp, 2.8V6 turbo engine where XWD is fitted as standard. Featuring new generation, active control to help the driver even better deploy the considerable performance on offer, the innovative XWD system now leverages the benefits of Saab's smaller, 2.0-litre turbo engine. A rear eLSD (electronic limited slip differential) and a XWD-specific sports chassis is standard with all Aero XWD models.

Top-of-the-line Aero 2.8V6 Turbo engine uprated
Now delivering 280 hp/206 kW and 400 Nm of torque on the Saloon and SportWagon, this engine in the 9-3 range is now offered with all-wheel-drive (XWD). A new 'Dynamic Pack' is available which includes a choice of 18" or 19" alloys, ultra-sport chassis (lowered by 10mm), high performance brakes (345mm front discs) ant tyre pressure monitoring system. Front wheel drive is available on the 9-3 convertible which delivers 280hp/206kW and 370Nm of torque.

The new Saab 9-5 Turbo edition
The 9-5 Turbo Edition features a number of added extras as standard. It makes use of Saab's fuel efficient turbocharged engine range, giving drivers the benefits of a larger engine without the usual drawbacks of extra weight, bulk and higher fuel consumption. There are two specifications available - the 9-5 Turbo Edition and the top-of-the range 9-5 Aero Turbo Edition. The 9-5 Turbo Edition includes additional features such as Leather Sport seats, 17" alloys, electric driver's seat and heated front & rear seats. The 9-5 Aero Turbo Edition expands on the theme by adding DVD Satellite Navigation, Bi-xenon headlights, Harman/Kardon audio system, Six-disc CD autochanger and Dual Electric seats to the comprehensive list of equipment.

Saab BioPower
Saab continues to support E85 as alternative fuel which reduces CO2 emissions by up to 70%. With its BioPower solution, Saab is acknowledged as the European leader in biofuels and recently recorded its 100,000th sale in Sweden alone. Saab BioPower variants are available across the entire range (9-3 and 9-5).

SAAB XWD: Stretching the performance envelope

Saab XWD is an 'intelligent', active all-wheel-drive system that continuously distributes engine drive torque between the front and rear axles, giving optimum handling, stability and grip in all driving conditions - from fast bends to slower corners, in dry or wet weather.

Driving Benefits
To optimise traction at take-off, Saab XWD incorporates an innovative, pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels. Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, this eliminates the need to detect front wheel slip before rear drive is activated. The driver has immediate access to maximum traction for smooth, strong acceleration without the possibility of any initial hesitation. It is all part of a system which Saab believes sets a new benchmark in all-wheel-drive performance.

While offering sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, Saab XWD rewards the enthusiastic driver. When exiting a bend under hard acceleration, 70% of torque can be transferred to the rear wheels to keep the car balanced. However, in highway cruising conditions, when traction or optimum grip is not an issue, only 5% to 10% of engine torque is typically transmitted to the rear axle. This helps provide a measure of greater stability, as well as benefiting fuel economy.

The fine balancing of the drive torque also raises the threshold at which ESP throttle and/or braking interventions may be triggered, providing more scope for closer driving involvement.

The ultimate 'icing on the cake' with Saab XWD is the active rear limited-slip differential (eLSD), the first application of an electronically-controlled rear LSD in this segment of the market. The eLSD can transfer up to 50% of maximum rear torque between the rear wheels, to whichever has more grip. Under hard cornering, or when completing a high speed maneuver, such as a lane change, the brief application of more or less torque to either wheel helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

How It Works
The Saab XWD hardware consists of a Power Take-off Unit (PTU) in the front final-drive that transmits engine torque through a prop-shaft to the rear axle via a Torque Transfer Device (TTD). This is located ahead a Rear Drive Module (RDM), with the eLSD alongside. Both the TTD and eLSD are wet, multi-plate clutch units from Haldex.
At take-off from rest, the TTD is initially activated when a gear is selected, thereby engaging the RDM. On the move, torque delivery between the axles is varied by the control of a valve in the TTD, which increases or reduces the hydraulic pressure on the wet clutch plates to progressively engage or disengage rear drive. The degree of 'slip' dictates how much drive is transmitted. The eLSD operates on the same principle to split drive across the axle between the wheels.

The Saab XWD electronic control unit functions in harness with the engine, transmission and ABS/ESP control modules. It receives inputs 100 times every second from more than 20 sensors in the vehicle, including those for the ABS and ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) systems. Data processing includes vehicle speed, wheel rotation speeds, lateral acceleration, throttle setting, yaw rate and the steering angle.

Installation of Saab XWD in the 9-3 range includes the fitment of a different rear sub-frame to carry the RDM, as well as a revised rear suspension geometry with self-leveling and a 50% increase in camber stiffness. Other alterations include re-tuning of springs, dampers and roll-bars in both the front and rear suspensions, as well as reworking of the steering system for good feedback.

The three piece prop-shaft runs through two bearings, with constant velocity joints for smooth running ensuring minimal 'wind-up'. Standard wheelbase and rear track dimensions are unaltered.

Testing
Tuning of the 9-3 chassis and the operating system's software was carried out by development engineers based at Trollhättan, the home of Saab in Sweden. In honing the integration and performance of Saab XWD, the team completed more than one million kilometres of testing in all weather conditions on some of the most challenging roads in Europe, as well as the Nurburgring in Germany and test tracks in Italy and Spain.

"We have been fanatical in optimizing the operation of Saab XWD," says Anders Tysk, head of the development team. "In view of all our work, including comparative testing with other systems, we have no doubt that Saab XWD raises the bar for all-wheel-drive performance."

The successful development of Saab XWD is reflected in the appointment of the Technical Center at Trollhättan as a center of expertise within General Motors for the development of all-wheel-drive systems.


Images Gallery :
Saab 9-4X BioPower












Saab 9-X BioHybrid








2008 SAAB Turbo-X





[Source : GM SAAB]
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DETROIT, July 23, 2008 - General Motors Corp. in global vehicle sales decisively through the second quarter and first half of the year, hurt by a large decline in North America.

The Detroit-based automaker said on Wednesday that vehicle sales fell 3 percent to 4.54 million vehicles in the first half as higher sales in Europe, Asia and Latin America failed to offset a 15 percent decline in North America.




Toyota sales, meanwhile, rose 2.2 percent to 4.8 million in the first six months of 2008. The tally includes sales at mini-vehicle unit Daihatsu Motor Co (7262.T: Quote, Profile, Research) and truck unit Hino Motors Ltd (7205.T: Quote, Profile, Research).

Higher U.S. gas prices have "put an enormous amount of pressure" on GM's truck sales, said Erich Merkle, an automotive consultant with accounting and consulting firm Crowe Chizek and Co LLC. "That is equating to lower sales for GM and causing them to now fall behind Toyota."

Both the automakers have cut U.S. truck production in response to weak U.S. auto sales and a consumer shift from low-mileage vehicles because of high fuel prices.

The slump in U.S. demand for large SUVs and pickup trucks has hit GM particularly hard as the high-margin vehicles historically account for a majority of the automaker's sales.

Toyota, on the other hand, has been able to weather the downturn better because of its strong car line-up, but plans to cut its global sales target for 2008.

GM and Toyota were roughly even in 2007 for the top spot among the world's automakers, with GM slightly ahead if sales from a China business were included.


STRONG GROWTH OUTSIDE NORTH AMERICA

GM's global sales fell 5 percent in the second quarter to 2.28 million vehicles, including a 20 percent decline in North America, its largest market.

GM's sales in North America fell to 963,929 vehicles in the second quarter from 1.2 million, hurt by the slow U.S. economy and labor disruptions in the U.S. market, the company said.

Quarterly sales rose 10 percent outside North America.

Sales in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East rose 17.7 percent, while sales in its Asia-Pacific region grew 14.6 percent, GM said. Sales rose 2.5 percent in Europe.

Overall, GM expects global demand for autos to increase 2.5 percent to 72 million vehicles in 2008 from 70.6 million last year, driven by sales increases in emerging markets.

Mike DiGiovanni, GM's chief sales analyst, said most of the industry's sales increase is expected to be in the so-called BRIC countries -- Brazil, Russia, India and China.

"Certainly the biggest risk is the U.S. economic downturn and potential spill-over effects on the global economy," he said.

[Source : Reuters]
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HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today (July 23) announced that a Job One ceremony was held at AutoAlliance International Inc. in Flat Rock, Michigan to celebrate the first United States production of the North American all-new Mazda6.



The all-new Mazda6 inherits and further evolves the sporty styling and superb driving performance of the first generation Mazda6. The North American model features a larger body and greater engine displacement to meet the particular demands of the North American market with handling and comfort being optimized for North American road conditions. Two spirited engines will be available: the newly developed 2.5-liter direct injection I-4 that drives the European and Japanese versions of the all-new Mazda6 and –for extra performance– the 3.7-liter V6 that powers the Mazda CX-9, the 2008 North American Truck of the Year.

Speaking at the ceremony, AutoAlliance International’s president and CEO, Gary A. Roe said, “The North American all-new Mazda6 has a special significance for us because it was developed exclusively to meet the needs of the North American market and is being built right here at AAI. Our dedication to build quality cars will ensure the Mazda6 succeeds amid a very challenging sales environment.”

James J. O’Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations added, “The midsize sedan segment is crowded with many of the best vehicles from Asia, Europe, and the US. Even under these circumstances, we are confident the North American all-new Mazda6 will be highly competitive.”

Mazda’s president and CEO, Hisakazu Imaki, remarked, “It is an honor to be here at AutoAlliance International to celebrate the North American all-new Mazda6 production kickoff. AutoAlliance International symbolizes the strong cooperative relationship that has benefited both Mazda and Ford for many years. Going forward, we will continue to provide our customers with the highest quality products in order to further strengthen Mazda’s presence in North America. This will bring us closer to achieving the targets of our mid-term Mazda Advancement Plan.”

Also attending the ceremony was Garry L. Sommerville, chairman of the UAW Local 3000, and approximately 900 AutoAlliance International employees.

Mazda began vehicle production in North America at Mazda Motor Manufacturing (USA) Corporation in 1987. The MMUC plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, became a joint venture between the Mazda Motor Corporation and the Ford Motor Company in 1992, when the name was changed to AutoAlliance International, Inc. Previous Mazda models produced at the facility include the Mazda MX-6 and Mazda 626. The first generation Mazda6 commenced production at AAI in 2002.

[Source : Mazda]
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• World debut for luxurious right-hand drive CTS
  
• UK debut for two forward looking concepts CTS Coupe and Provoq

British International Motor Show - Cadillac presents the eagerly awaited all new right-hand drive CTS at this years British International Motorshow. Two concept vehicles, the CTS Coupe and the Provoq crossover, will also be showcased giving visitors a powerful demonstration of the luxury brand's defining characteristics - dramatic design, great performance and intelligent technology.



Right-Hand Drive Cadillac CTS
The all-new Cadillac CTS luxury sports saloon, which arrives in the UK showrooms this September, features technical innovations throughout, dramatic exterior styling and a hand-crafted lavishly equipped interior.

Power is provided by world-class 2.8 or 3.6 litre V6 petrol engines mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. An advanced 2.9 litre V6 diesel engine will join the line-up in 2009. Prices for this bold contender start from just £26,995 for the 2.8 V6 and rise to just £32,995 for the 3.6 V6.

Luxury comes as standard on the new CTS, which comes with a single ‘Sport Luxury’ specification that exhibits a class-leading level of standard equipment. As a result of the impressive standard equipment level the only optional choices needed are exterior paint finish, the ‘Ultra View’ sunroof and the Sapele Pommele wood finish to the interior.

Offering stunning road presence, a luxurious fully-appointed interior and an exceptional driving experience, the new Cadillac CTS is a symbol for a new generation of drivers who think outside the box.

CTS Coupe Concept
The CTS Coupe gives a strong indication of Cadillac’s future design language. The concept which extends the dramatic design of the award-winning CTS saloon features all-new sculpted bodywork aft of the front wings. The stunning vehicle has a profile unlike anything else on the road with fast-rake styling. The wheelbase is the same as the CTS, but the overall height is approximately 50 mm lower and the overall length is 50 mm shorter. Among the CTS Coupe Concept’s signature design cues are several elements that suggest the look of a carefully cut diamond, particularly at the rear. These elements are seen in everything from the chrome header above the rear number plate holder to the indents that comprise the basic form of the rear fascia.

Provoq Concept
This concept provides a look into Cadillac’s vision for the future of luxury transportation in the form of a hydrogen fuel cell crossover vehicle. Provoq continues GM’s commitment to displace petroleum use in vehicles through advanced technology. Using GM’s groundbreaking E-Flex propulsion system, Provoq combines the new fifth-generation fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery to produce an electrically driven vehicle that uses no petrol and has no emissions other than water.

Current product line-up

Right-Hand Drive Cadillac BLS Saloon/Wagon
Designed in Europe, for European consumers, the premium mid-size Cadillac BLS Wagon and Saloon has one lavishly specified trim level, ‘Elegance’. The range includes a choice of two diesel and four petrol engines, with manual or automatic transmission. To further simplify the range traditional price premiums have been banished from the BLS line up ensuring buyers can enjoy diesel power for the same price as petrol and Wagon body style for the same price as the Saloon. Prices start at just £21,495 for the 175PS petrol and 150PS diesel models.

Right-Hand Drive Cadillac STS
The Cadillac STS is the flagship of the Cadillac UK range. With its Cadillac-signature styling and unwavering attention to detail, the STS is a refined sophisticated and luxurious saloon full of purposeful innovation. Available with a choice of two petrol engines the 3.6 V6 or 4.6 V8, the STS comes with one lavish trim level, ‘Sport luxury’. Prices start at £33,995 for the 3.6 V6 rising to £39,995 for the 4.6 V8

Right-Hand Drive Cadillac SRX
The seven-seat SRX combines the sporty exterior and driving dynamics of a luxury estate car with the all-wheel drive and interior space of a sport utility vehicle. The luxury crossover is available with a choice two engines the 3.6 V6 and the 4.6 V8 and two levels, ‘Elegance’ or ‘Sport Luxury’ (Elegance only available with 3.6 V6 engine). Prices range from £28,100 for the 3.6 Elegance to £37,100 for the 4.6 V8 Sport Luxury.

Left Hand Drive Cadillac Escalade
Completely redesigned last year, the eight –seat 2008 Cadillac Escalade is a high-profile, iconic vehicle that embodies the true spirit of Cadillac in its most luxurious and capable form. The large luxury SUV has a permanent 4x4 system which is powered by 6.2-litre V8 petrol engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with driver shift control.
Escalade customers can choose from ‘Elegance’ or ‘Sport Luxury’ trim levels, with prices ranging from £47,100 for the ‘Elegance’ to £50,100 for the ‘Sport luxury’.

Images Gallery :

Cadillac CTS ..New images




Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept





Cadillac CTS Provoq Fuel Cell Vehicle Concept






2008 Cadillac CTS






[Source : GM]
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• Dramatic exterior design for luxurious rear-wheel drive Cadillac saloon
  
• Lavishly equipped, sophisticated and hand-crafted leather trimmed interior
  
• Two right-hand drive models on sale in September 2008
  
• 2.8-litre V6 petrol from £26,995 and new 3.6-litre direct injection V6 petrol from £ 32,995

British International Motor Show - The all-new 2009 right-hand drive Cadillac CTS luxury saloon will make its UK debut at the British International Motorshow on July 22, ahead of its on-sale date of September 1.

With a dramatic coupe-like profile and a choice of 2.8-litre V6 or 3.6-litre V6 petrol engines mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the new CTS has a lavish specification as standard. An advanced 2.9-litre V6 diesel engine will join the new CTS line-up in 2009.



For the UK market, the new CTS is available in two models. Both are front engined, petrol powered, rear-wheel-drive cars with a six-speed automatic transmission and premium ‘Sport Luxury’ specification with a class-leading level of standard equipment.

CTS prices will start at £26,995 for the 211PS 2.8 V6 model and rise to £32,995 for the 311PS 3.6 V6 model.

The all-new 2009 Cadillac CTS sports saloon will feature at the British International Motorshow on stand S2 in the South Hall of ExCeL in London during the show’s public days from 23 July – 3 August.

Athletic exterior design

The new CTS has an athletic form that reflects its combination of luxury and performance.
The evolved styling theme has produced a faster, coupe-like profile, while the more sculpted bumpers emphasise the car’s wider track and enhanced chassis dynamics. The front bumpers have side air extractors that recall a styling element from Cadillac’s 2003 ‘Sixteen’ concept car.

The new CTS is longer (+32mm to 4,860mm), wider (+47mm to 1,842mm) and higher (+23mm to 1,441mm) than the previous model, but retains the 2,880mm wheelbase. The front and rear track are increased (by 45mm to 1,569mm and by 51mm to 1,575mm, respectively) compared to the outgoing model, giving a more planted, well-grounded appearance. The wider stance is also accentuated by increased tumblehome, with the vehicle sides sculpted inwards to give a more dynamic appearance and a sleeker roof line, without compromising headroom or the spacious interior.

The ‘tauter’ more precise styling of the CTS is complimented by the larger diameter wheels and tyres which completely fill the smoothly flared wheel arches. Shod with low profile 235/50 R18 tyres, the nine-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels (with a high-polish finish on 3.6 V6 models), are in turn packed with larger, high-performance brake calipers and ventilated discs.

Cutting edge manufacturing techniques at the award-winning GM Lansing Grand River Assembly Centre further enhance the quality of the exterior finish. An innovative laser-brazing technique affixes the roof panel more crisply, and means the exterior roof surface delivers an uninterrupted class-A surface across the top of the vehicle, free of ditch joints that are common on other vehicles.

Craftsman tailored interior

The new 2009 CTS cabin represents an evolution for Cadillac interiors. Advances in surface development, technology, materials and construction, all combine to highlight technical precision with elegant, hand-crafted details and precise tailoring. For example, the cabin features Cadillac’s new “cut-and-sew” interior process that combines advanced technology with the hand-rendered precision of expert craftsmen for a superb, tailored finish to the leather trim. This exquisite detail continues on the heated leather seats, which – in the front – also feature eight-way power adjustment and two-position memory for the driver’s seat.

Interior comfort is further assured with dual-zone automatic climate control and cruise control. Clean, white ambient LED light pipes recessed between the upper and lower instrument panel combine with subtle backlighting in the door pulls and footwells to create discreet theatre-style night lighting. Each of these features are standard on the new CTS which is offered with a single premium ‘Sport Luxury’ trim level specification.

“Cadillac has engineered an historic renaissance, with a completely new product portfolio, driven in large part by the original CTS,” said general manager Jim Taylor. “The CTS has built a strong record of success on many levels. It exceeded our goals for sales volume, set new design trends, won championships in racing, and earned awards for both build quality and customer satisfaction. Now, with the all-new 2009 CTS the next chapter promises to be even more dramatic.

“The 2009 Cadillac CTS embodies a contemporary revival of two of the brand’s great traditions: innovative technology and precise craftsmanship. In new CTS they come wrapped in a new overall body shape that gives an edgy and contemporary character, with an injection of real elegance,” added Taylor.

Integrated infotainment and navigation

The CTS integrates the very latest technologies in in-car entertainment and navigation. Music is delivered through a 300 watt 10-speaker Bose® 5.1 Cabin Surround® sound system, which features Neodynium (Nd®) woofer and sub-woofer assemblies. The audio system was extensively engineered for the digital music age with Bose Automotive, with whom Cadillac has worked closely for over 25 years. Uniquely, thanks to the direct involvement of Apple engineers, full iPod integration means that playlists appear on the car’s retractable eight-inch touch-screen VGA display, steering wheel controls can be used to advance tracks, and devices can be charged in the cabin.

A 40-gigabyte hard drive stores music from digital music players and CDs, and its digital audio recording capability means listeners can pause and rewind radio broadcasts. The infotainment system also features a DVD/CD player with MP3 file compatibility, and a TV tuner.

The hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system exploits the latest advances from the industry, creating a more informative package, 30% quicker route calculations, voice activation and 3-D imaging. It also incorporates TMC, a continuously transmitted traffic update alert system, which informs drivers of road congestion in real time.

Power and performance

Generating more power while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions is a daunting engineering challenge and the new CTS delivers on all three targets thanks to its direct-injection technology.

The top-level power option for the 150mph CTS is GM’s new, 311PS, 3.6-litre V6 direct injection engine with variable valve timing (VVT). Direct-injection of fuel to the combustion chamber creates a more complete burn and contributes to a 15% increase in power; an 8% increase in torque; and a 3% cut in fuel consumption – while also reducing cold-start hydrocarbon emissions by 25 percent.

The standard 211PS, 2.8-litre V6 engine with VVT powers the 2009 CTS to a top speed of 127 mph.

Both new CTS models come with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard that delivers a smooth, responsive performance with lower engine rpm when cruising, to enhance overall fuel economy. The transmission offers drivers a choice of fully-automatic operation or Driver Shift Control sequential manual gear shifting (with paddle shift on the 3.6 model).

Next year, a state-of-the-art, direct-injection turbo-diesel engine will become available. This sophisticated V6 diesel will have a displacement of 2.9 litres, an estimated output of 250PS and produce 550Nm of torque from 2000rpm.

Sporty handling, luxurious ride

The drivetrain, suspension, braking and steering of the new Cadillac CTS have been developed to deliver sportscar grip and handling combined with a limousine-like quality of ride and a premium ‘feel’ of refinement. To achieve this, input was gained from the brand’s acclaimed V-Series models and Cadillac sent CTS prototypes to Germany’s ‘green hell’ – the famed Nordschleife circuit at the Nürburgring. The car was also exhaustively road-tested on city streets and country roads across Europe and China, as well as North America.
Both models feature a front engine/rear-wheel drive layout, a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, traction control and a limited-slip differential at the rear. The fully independent suspension features aluminium components and a new tower-to-tower suspension brace at the front which adds cross-car stiffness and enhances the overall steering feel. This innovation has been transferred from the high-performance CTS-V model, for use in all new CTS models. On 3.6 V6 models, the suspension is more performance tuned and has an automatic self-leveling system at the rear.

Safer for occupants and pedestrians

The 2009 CTS is designed to enhance Cadillac’s reputation for providing safe occupant environments in luxury vehicles, and includes innovative new developments.

The new Pedestrian Protection system, for example, senses a collision with a pedestrian through front bumper sensors and activates a mechanism that lifts the bonnet to create additional clearance to hard points in the engine compartment, reducing the severity of the impact to the pedestrian's head. This vehicle system complies with all EU safety regulations and is designed to sense and discriminate collisions with a pedestrian at vehicle speeds ranging from 16 to 28 mph.
Another industry-leading safety feature is the front passenger airbag that features next generation ‘dual-depth’ airbag technology. This single airbag deploys in one of two sizes and one of two inflation pressures determined by the front passenger seat position, seat belt use and crash severity. This capability means a dual-depth airbag is deployed in a configuration more tailored to the specific emergency situation than conventional or dual-stage airbags.

A further key highlight is GM’s Adaptive Forward Lighting system for the bi-xenon HID headlamps, which automatically adjusts headlamp direction for improved nighttime driving visibility. The system turns the headlamps up to five degrees inboard and up to 15 degrees outboard on each lamp.

Details include:

• Dual-stage driver and innovative dual-depth front passenger air bag
  
• Driver and front passenger seat-mounted pelvic/thorax side air bags
  
• Roof-rail-mounted full length side curtain air bags
  
• Front seat belt pretensioners
  
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
  
• Bodyshell structure with strategically placed high-strength steel
  
• Automatic rain-sense windscreen wipers with heated windscreen washer system
  
• Electric push-button parking brake
  
• Rear park assist sensors

Early promise of success – fulfilled
When the new CTS went on sale in the USA in September 2007, it triggered strong demand from luxury consumers (sales went up 59%) and received critical acclaim across the board. Motor Trend magazine choose the new CTS as its ‘2008 Car of the Year’ award winner, Car and Driver magazine selected new CTS for its ’10 Best List’ and the new Cadillac was short-listed for the North American Car of the Year award.

The new CTS has also won safety awards in the US for its crash test performance and for fitting Cadillac’s Stabilitrak electronic stability control system as standard on all models.

Pricing Information :

	OTR price	Insurance Group
Saloon - Petrol
CTS 2.8 Sports Luxury (211ps) 6-speed automatic	£26,995	TBC
CTS 3.6 Sports Luxury (311ps) 6-speed automatic	£32,995	TBC
Optional extras (factory fitted)
Metallic paint	£650
Tri-coat, Tintcoat, or ChromaFlair paint	£850
Electric glass sunroof	£1,200
Sapele Pommele wood interior trim	£495

Continued ...

[Source : GM]
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TROISDORF (July 23, 2008)-Lap runs on the Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany's Eifel region are often cancelled due to rain. But the wet weather didn't stop Nissan from taking its X-TRAIL fuel cell vehicle for a spin on the course recently, making Nissan the first automaker to record an FCV lap on the famous race track.



Frank Eickholt, member of the Nissan 24 Hours Nürburgring race team and Nordschleife aficionado, skillfully steered the 1.3 million euro prototype through "The Green Hell"- as the course is often referred to - on standard street tires. And although the 20.8 kilometer-long course was consistently wet – making it difficult to drive aggressively - Eickholt was thoroughly impressed with the X-TRAIL FCV which clocked in at 11:58 minutes.

"I was very surprised at just how comfortable it is to drive a fuel cell car. You get in, turn the key and off you go, just like with a normal car,"said Eickholt.

"Although some of the uphill sections were challenging, the speed was still very impressive. If the course hadn't been so wet, I could have gotten more momentum out of the curves. Thirty to 40 seconds could have been shaved off for sure,"he added.

The five-seater X-TRAIL FCV is a zero-emission electric vehicle that runs in near silence. It is powered by electricity produced on board the vehicle, in a hydrogen fuel cell stack. Electricity is generated following an electro-chemical reaction between hydrogen – which is stored at 700 bar in a purpose-designed high-pressure tank – and oxygen. The only by-product is water vapour.

This electric current is channelled through an inverter to drive a powerful motor in the front of the car. The X-TRAIL FCV, which has been undergoing real-world trials in Japan and California since 2006, has an official top speed of 150 km/h and a range of 500 km. Maximum power is 90kW (120PS) while maximum torque is 280Nm.

It also features the latest in battery technology: a Nissan-designed compact lithium-ion battery with thin laminated cells. The Li-Ion battery is used to start the vehicle and to boost power under acceleration. Kinetic energy created under deceleration is captured and stored in the battery for future use.

Still in the early stages of development, Nissan is currently working to improve durability of the FCV componentry; to find a breakthrough in hydrogen storage systems; and to reduce the cost of the technology. The company hopes to see fuel cell vehicles in series production by 2015.

The X-TRAIL FCV is part of the Nissan Green Program 2010, Nissan's midterm environmental strategy which is aimed at reducing CO2 emissions from the company's products and activities around the world, as well as reducing other exhaust emissions and increasing recycling.

[Source : Nissan]

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The Me'gane Renaultsport 230 F1 Team R26 was launched in November 2006 and has enjoyed a great success. Using this base, Renaultsport launch an extreme version, the Me'gane Renaultsport R26.R.

• New limited edition Me'gane Renaultsport R26.R makes its worldwide debut at the British International Motor Show today, 22 July, 2008
  
• Developed from the Me'gane Renaultsport 230 F1 Team R26, the R26.R retains the same engine, gearbox and limited slip differential but with a significant weight reduction of 123kg
  
• Achieves new lap record of the Nu"rburgring of 8m 17s, the fastest for a front-wheel-drive production car
  
• Features from the world of racing with a carbon bonnet, polycarbonate windows, Sabelt race seats and six-point harnesses
  
• Optional roll cage and titanium exhaust
  
• Priced at £22,990
  
• Limited to 450 examples worldwide, 230 of which will come to the UK. On sale from October

Developed by Renault Sport Technologies, the Me'gane R26.R joins the family that also comprises the Clio Renaultsport 197, Me'gane Renaultsport 225, Me'gane Renaultsport dCi 175 and, from September, the Twingo Renaultsport 133. Since the launch in April 2004, the family of Me'gane Renaultsport has sold more than 20,000 units in almost 30 countries.



The launch of this ultimate version underlines Renault Sport Technologies' role as a leading manufacturer of high performance cars.

Me'gane R26.R has been developed to:

• offer customers who enjoy trackdays a car with an unrivalled performance per pound ratio
  
• be an enthusiast's icon

Radical looks
Renault Sport Technologies have given the Me'gane R26.R visual differences that mark out the car at first glance. The carbon fibre bonnet and new 18" alloy wheels in red are the main visual clues together with a new rear spoiler, plus R26.R decals and logos and tinted polycarbonate in place of glass in the tailgate and rear side windows. The car is available in seven colours, two of which are new to the Me'gane, Racing Blue and Renault i.d. Lunar Grey and one is brand new, Renault i.d. Pearlescent White.

Inside the R26.R the atmosphere is as radical as the outside. Competition seats with a carbon fibre shell are supplied by Sabelt who also supply the six-point harnesses, the first time that this form of restraint has been homologated in a production car. Conventional lap and diagonal seat belts can be fitted as an accessory. No rear seat is fitted. The steering wheel and gearlever gaiter are in leather and suede. A plaque shows the production number for each country :

• 230 for the UK
  
• 126 for France
  
• 26 for Spain
  
• 26 for Germany

Lightweight DNA
To improve the power to weight ratio, the Me'gane R26.R has been on a strict diet, losing 123kg compared to the standard R26. This has been achieved by the removal of :

• Rear seats and seat belts
  
• Passenger airbag and curtain airbags (the driver's airbag remains)
  
• Climate control (air conditioning remains as standard)
  
• Rear wash/wipe and heated rear window
  
• Front fog lamps
  
• Headlamp washers
  
• Radio/CD player
  
• Most of the soundproofing
  

Other new elements are:

• carbon fibre bonnet (saves 7.5kg)
  
• tailgate and rear side windows in polycarbonate (saves 5.7kg)
  
• Sabelt seats with carbon fibre shell and aluminium base (saves 25kg)
  
• Six-point harnesses
  
• Rear spoiler
  
• Optional roll cage
  
• Optional titanium exhaust

A chassis without compromise
The suspension and brakes have been optimised to make the most of the new, lighter weight and to provide maximum performance. The front independent suspension is maintained but with the following new parts:

• new front springs (14mm/100kg compared to 13.4mm/100kg)
  
• new rear springs (16.2mm/100kg from 15.1mm/100kg)
  
• the shock absorber settings are also re-calibrated
  
• the brake discs are grooved, not drilled
  
• new alloy wheels are fitted with a different offset increasing the track by 4mm
  
• Toyo Proxes R888 225/40R18 tyres are available as an option in place of the standard Michelin Pilot Sport 2 235/40R18
  
• Stiffer lower arm bushes

To guarantee the best possible traction, the R26.R retains the limited slip differential from the Me'gane Renaultsport 230 F1 Team R26. This is a mechanical differential with helical teeth and retains the same transfer rate of 33%. The combination of this limited slip differential and independent steering-axis front suspension minimises torque steer and enables power to be applied earlier during cornering.

A performance car needs brakes that are both powerful and fade-resistant. The Me'gane R26.R has large 312mm ventilated discs at the front with Brembo four-piston callipers that provide stopping power at the highest level. To resist fade, the discs are grooved as opposed to drilled.

230hp
The R26.R takes its engine and gearbox from the Me'gane Renaultsport 230 F1 Team R26. This develops a peak power of 230hp and torque of 310Nm. A characteristic of this engine is the wide power band, with 90% of the torque available from 2000 to 6000rpm.

However, to reduce the gear change time, a short-shift gear linkage is fitted.

The R26.R accelerates from zero to 62mph in 6 seconds and passes the 1000 metre mark in 25.9 seconds. The combined fuel consumption is 33.2 mpg and emissions are 199g/km.

Nurburgring lap record
On 23 June, the Me'gane R26.R established a new lap record for a front wheel drive production car of the Nu"rburgring circuit with a time of just 8 minutes 17 seconds. To commemorate this exceptional level of performance, the circuit outline and lap time is etched into the rear side windows.

The Me'gane R26.R is unveiled on 22 July, in London at the British International Motor Show and goes on sale in October limited to just 450 examples in total.

Images : Renaultsport Megane R26.R







[Source : Renault]
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July 22th, 2008, Darvi - Altay, 358 km.

Experienced Armin Schwarz wins ahead of youngster Lars Kern - Team France extends lead in overall standings to just under two hours

11th stage of 14
Liaison 1: 77 km
Special stage: 280 km
Liaison 2: 1 km

The 11th leg of the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson led for 358 km, from Darvi to Altai. Blistering heat prevailed at the start. After they were fast yesterday, but missed a checkpoint and therefore lost the victory of the day, everything was right today for Armin Schwarz and Andreas Schulz. For the fourth time, Team Germany 1 posted the fastest time at a special stage. After 3:42:44 hours and a lead of 4:06 minutes, they were confirmed as the winners. With this, Schwarz/Schulz move into second place in the overall standings.



Team Germany 3 is also back on the road to success. Just as during the opening stage eleven days ago, they made second place. Pilot Lars Kern especially liked the properties of the stretch. "Just the way I like it. A fast stretch where you could accelerate, but at the same time you had to maneuver. Our car ran excellently. During the last part, I still didn't think I could keep up with Armin. It worked out though! And so we reached the destination at the same time." With victory the radiance returned to the face of the 20-year old rally driver. In the overall standings Lars Kern and Daniel van Kan are in 6th place.

Several minutes went by, before the leaders in the overall standings, Team France crossed the finish line in third place, at an altitude of 6562 feet.(+ 00:16:52 minutes). Francois Borsotto in the passeneger seat looked worried. "It was exhausting! We had a big problem: The engine wasn't performing anymore. We were crawling, not driving, on the last 20 km. Fortunately the route led downhill." Contrary to expectations, they extended their lead on Team Portugal, who'd been in second place before this stage, to over two hours. The Portuguese Pedro Gameiro and Pedro Figueiredo had to battle a serious problem from kilometer 100 on: the rear wheel suspension broke. With a lag time of 2:01 hours, they finished in 7th place. That also cost them the second place in the overall standings, where they're now in third.

Pau Soler and Laia Peinado from Spain crossed the finish line in fourth place with a lag time of 23:41 minutes and in inclined position due to a damaged rear wheel suspension. The Russian team with Denis Levytov and Sergey Talantsev were fifth, the sixth place was scored by Team Suzuki/Spox.com. Andreas Kramer and Kurt Ettenberger have to however replace the torn upper transverse control arm.

Team USA overlooked a 6.6 feet deep dried-up trench and got their Porsche stuck in it. Since Ryan Millen and Colin Godby couldn't have freed themselves from this situation alone, they received the necessary help from the Russians Fedor Fedorov and Mikhail Bardashow (Team Inteko). Due to this incident, the Americans lost a lot of time in the overall standings and slipped from the seventh to twelfth place. Adel Abdulla from Qatar and Norbert Lutteri from Italy lost a huge amount of time because of a defect to their Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia. They received ten penalty hours fort his.

Problems also appeared on the agenda of the independents. Team JoeVito (Panos Meyer/Birger Veit) had started the leg, but not the special stage. A broken drive shaft forced them to an emergency repair. They arrived at the camp in Altai and have been able to get their Landrover going again in the meantime, thanks to Daniel van Kan's heavy labor. That's also the crew's hope of the Danner Racing Team, which had to be towed to the camp, 35 km before the finish, due to a broken air-conditioning compressor.

Drivers, mechanics and service crews will be repairing the rally cars into the night. Tomorrow the longest special stage of this year's Transsyberia Rally powered by Sony Ericsson will take place. The route will lead over 400 km through the Gobi Desert, with river crossings and up to the high plateau of the Bayankhongor in an altitude of 6562 feet. The stage's destination will be reached after a total of 519 kilometers.

Result :

Daily Standing | Overall Standing | Daily Standing by Cat.| Overall Standing by Cat.

Images : Stage 10 : Mankhan - Darvi, 316 km.









All images are copyright © Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson

[Source : Official 2008 Transsyberia Rally]
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With its stunning visual impact, exhilarating all-round dynamic performance, innovative chassis technology and high levels of luxury, packaging and convenience, the Evora heralds an exciting new era for Lotus.



The first all-new Lotus since the iconic Elise made its debut in 1995, The Evora enters the sports car market as currently the world's only mid-engined 2+2. Powered by a Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 PS, and weighing just 1350 kg (prototype specification), the Evora promises breathtaking performance. During preliminary testing around the famous Nu"rburgring, the Lotus chassis engineers report that it is extremely agile and great fun to drive even when clad with the full development disguise that hid the beautiful lines from the prying motor-industry paparazzi.

In addition to its excellent performance and exemplary handling, the Evora offers a more refined ownership experience than Lotus's existing smaller four-cylinder models. Its elegantly styled cabin is elegantly trimmed and its equipment list includes contemporary features such as an advanced touch-screen multi-media system and electric power-fold door mirrors.

Because one of the roles of the Evora is to attract new customers to the Lotus brand, much attention has been paid to its ease of use. Wider, taller door apertures and narrower sills make getting in and out of the cabin a less athletic undertaking than it is in Lotus's smaller sports cars (the Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-Eleven), while the design of the cabin itself will accommodate two 99th percentile (6ft 5in tall) American males in the front seats.

The 'convenience factor' of the Evora extends to less obvious areas of the car. For instance, beneath the skin the entire front-end structure is a high tech aluminium sacrificial modular unit, attached to the main extruded aluminium tub. This modular unit is designed to deform for maximum safety, and to reduce repair costs in the event of a frontal impact.

The Evora has been designed with global automotive regulations in mind, and future derivatives are planed, these including amongst others, a convertible.

The Evora will be hand crafted and built on a dedicated new assembly line within Lotus's advanced manufacturing facility at Hethel in the east of England; capacity limitations will restrict production to approximately 2000 cars a year, ensuring the dynamic new sports car's rarity and exclusivity.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, has this to say about the exciting new model: "The Evora is the biggest milestone Lotus has achieved since the Elise was born 13 years ago and is part of our bold five year strategic plan, which includes the introduction of new cars and technologies to many more markets around the world. The Evora also represents Lotus core values of performance through light weight and efficiency and proves that you can have phenomenal performance, fuel efficiency elegant design and practicality all in a class leading mid-engine 2+2 sportscar, which will meet global safety and homologation standards"
Mike Kimberley continues, "Looking to the future, we will continue to research, develop and produce lighter, more efficient vehicles which are linked to our extensive and well-regarded work on all aspects of future fuels, alternative engines and electric and hybrid vehicle solutions for the future. We all have an environmental responsibility to future generations and the Evora is another example where Lotus is seen to make significant steps towards improving the efficiency and sustainability of the motorcar keeping Britain at the forefront of the high technology motor industry."

THE EVORA IN DETAIL

Style or function? Have both...
Designed 'in-house' by Lotus Design, the sleek and athletic form uses fluid forms and crisp surfaces to communicate velocity, agility and sophistication. Low and wide with modern cab forward proportions, muscular rear haunches and function optimised hip air intakes this is clearly a serious mid engined sportscar that skilfully hides the practicality of its two plus two capability.

Russell Carr, Head of Lotus Design, led the Evora's design team with Steven Crijns, Design Manager responsible for the exterior and Anthony Bushell, Senior Designer, responsible for the interior.

"A cornerstone of the design's success was working closely with the technical team to develop a package that allowed us to get the proportions correct," says Head of Design Russell Carr, "The asymmetric wheel sizes, the short rear overhang, long front overhang and cab forward visor screen all contribute to giving the car visual movement and an agile stance. This is incredibly important to us because we want the car's aesthetics to communicate its driving characteristics".

Lotus products have always embodied a perfect balance between form and function and the Evora successfully continues this heritage. "We never lost sight of the fact that, although this car must provide real world useability, sportscars are emotional purchases and that you have to seduce the customer through beguiling looks and exotic persona. We are, therefore, very proud that we have been able to use technical and user functionality to positively drive the design in key areas and create some of the car's most distinctive features". says Carr.

Ingress and egress, for example, dictated a minimal "step-over" to get into the Evora. We simply cut away the surface under the door and created a unique and dramatic piece of sculpture that enhances the stance of the car as well as its useability.

Elsewhere, aerodynamic considerations for drag, down force and cooling had significant but positive influence on the overall form and details such as air intakes. A desire to create balanced down force, that increases cornering performance, led to the adoption of, the now, "signature" top exit radiator vent, race car inspired diffuser and "floating rear wing". Drag limitation, drove the dramatic tear-dropped cabin layout and the curvaceous plan view has given the car a more muscular rear shoulder and conveys a level of sophistication appropriate to this market segment.

"We believe that our designs should be honest as well as dramatic and so we are really pleased with the fact that these iconic features all do a real job" says Steven Crijns, Design Manager.

This inherent understanding of the relationship between the technical and the aesthetic paid dividends the first time a full-scale model of the Evora was wind-tunnel tested -- only minimal adjustments were required to the car's aerodynamic package to meet the targets for downforce and stability.

Steve Crijns continued, "Overall the design language shows a clear DNA link with its Lotus siblings, whilst establishing its own distinctive and contemporary theme. The undulating shoulder line is brilliantly mirrored in the lower part of the bodyside by the cut -away sill that creates a torseau-like muscularity."

"The front three-quarter view is really powerful" Russell Carr continues, "Your eye is drawn effortlessly, from our signature mouth, rearward by fluid surfaces and fast lines that create a sense of speed even when the car is stationary. From this angle you can also see how dramatically the visor screen sweeps around the teardrop form of the cabin and the gently waisted plan shape perfectly accentuates the muscularity of the rear fender. This is unmistakeably mid engined language and the Evora is unmistakeably a Lotus."

The view from the rear three-quarters is just as striking and the one that many will become familiar with as the car passes them on the road. The tapered cabin, diffuser, floating wing, centrally mounted twin tailpipes and distinctive engine bay vents all combine to create a completely unique look.

Moving right inside...
The design language of the interior reflects that of the exterior -- simple, fluid surfaces, soft forms and crisp feature lines wrap around the cabin cosseting the occupants. Unlike recent Lotus products that use a race car inspired, technical minimalism, the Evora employs a softer approach that utilises premium quality materials and finishes to create a contemporary but luxurious ambience that is unique to Lotus products.

It is, according to Head of Lotus Design Russell Carr, "A huge departure from what people might expect based on Lotus's recent past. We wanted the Evora's cabin to feel special and to be surprising as well as sporty. Precision engineered metal inserts and quality edge-lit switches are brilliantly juxtaposed against soft hand-stitched leather surfaces to give a modern interior with a classic twist."

Russell Carr continues, "The flat bottomed steering wheel, figure hugging sports seat, contemporary instrumentation and ergonomically positioned controls provide an intuitive environment that instantly forms a connection between driver and car ensuring that it becomes an extension of his or her body."

Anthony Bushell Senior Designer explained about the choice of materials in the Evora's interior, "Tactile quality is incredibly important within this segment and so we wanted the interior to use honest premium materials. Much of the switchgear is bespoke, and every metallic component is actually metal."

Focused courtesy lighting is used throughout the interior, giving a spectacular illuminated feel to the sculpture design feature of the cabin.
The extensive use of handcrafted, premium leather differentiates The Evora from other Lotus products and such is its importance to the character of the car that an entire new trim shop has been built at the Lotus Headquarters in the UK, dedicated to its production.

Even the entry level versions of the Evora will feature leather-upholstered seats, upper door trim panels and facia, but it is expected that most customers will opt for the full hide treatment. With a range of leather colours available, customers will have the opportunity to personalise their Evora.

High-tech treats
Contemporary technology also features in the Evora's cabin. A newly developed Alpine multi-media system with a 7 inch touch-screen provides advanced audio, satellite navigation, video, Bluetooth? hands-free telephone and iPod? connectivity functions; the screen also serves as a monitor for The Evora's optional reversing camera. The satellite navigation element of the system is removable, allowing you to programme it from the comfort of your home, or take it with you to continue your journey in an unfamiliar pedestrian location.

The Alpine audio set-up is one of the most sophisticated automotive systems in the world. Called IMPRINT and using MultEQ sound enhancement technology, it is able to cancel out sound imbalances, caused by the cabin window glass, for instance, creating echoes, while carpets suppress mid-range frequencies -- resulting in amazingly crisp, clear, undistorted sound reproduction wherever you are seated in the car.

A bespoke air-conditioning system developed by Bergstrom is standard on all models, and has been designed for the hottest climate or the closest humidity to help provide maximum occupant comfort. Lotus traction control and on-board tyre pressure monitoring will also be available.

One size fits all
The front seats themselves are very supportive and leather clad with a lightweight manual adjustment mechanism for fore and aft, rake and lumbar, designed to give a supported driving position.

The rear seats of 2+2 versions of the Evora --are intended for children and smaller adults. There will also be a two-seater derivative with a luggage shelf in the back. To maximise comfort in the rear, there's a decent amount of foot-room under the seats in front, while both back seats feature ISOFIX mountings for secure child seat fitment.

When unoccupied, the rear seats provide a convenient stowage area, adding to the Evora's appeal as an everyday car. The 160 litre boot, which ingeniously features a fresh air cooling system to reduce the effect of any heat ingress from the engine bay, will also accommodate a full set of golf clubs.

Easy in, easy out
With the Elise and its derivatives, the no-compromise character of the car makes getting in and out across a wide sill and through a comparatively narrow door/window aperture part of the charm of ownership. For the Evora and its remit for the serious daily driver, and to attract newcomers to the Lotus brand, greater convenience and practicality is provided.

As a consequence the sill is now lower and slimmer (80mm wide compared with 100mm in the Elise), and the whole door aperture taller. The doors open wider than on the Elise and its siblings, while the height of the front seat is raised by 65mm.

But while The Evora is undeniably more 'lifestyle' in respect of its everyday practicality, once you're seated behind its flat-bottomed steering wheel, it feels every bit as exotic and sporting as you would expect a Lotus to be.

Safely does it
In common with the Elise and its derivatives, The Evora's bonded extruded aluminium chassis tub has incredible inherent strength, particularly in regard to side impacts. Additional torsional strength is given to the whole structure by the tubular steel seatbelt anchorage frame that also acts as a rollover structure.

Deformable sacrificial aluminium front and steel rear subframe modules are attached to the tub using joints which are designed to minimise damage to the tub, protecting the main passenger cell in the event of an accident.

Driver and passenger airbags are standard. The airbag on the passenger side is cleverly engineered to deploy vertically and then be deflected rearwards by the windscreen, to provide protection for children as well as adults.

Anti-lock brakes are standard on all models, as is Lotus Traction Control (LTC); these systems have been specially developed in co-operation with Bosch and enable up and coming drivers to consistently exploit the braking and acceleration capabilities of the Evora, whilst allowing skilled enthusiasts the freedom to enjoy the full Lotus driving experience.

The chassis: Production Low Volume Versatile Vehicle Architecture
The Evora's chassis is an evolution of the Versatile Vehicle Architecture (VVA) from the Lotus APX concept vehicle previously showcased at the Geneva Motorshow, and allows for the development of a range of vehicles up to a gross vehicle weight of 1,900 kg. This architecture has been designed to be more applicable to mid-volume applications by utilising our low capital investment manufacturing processes. The Evora structure progresses the Lotus 'bonded and riveted' technology used in the Elise family of vehicles with unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing contemporary ease of ingress/egress, build modularity and improved, lower cost repairs.

The Low Volume VVA architecture has been designed so that it can be extended in width, length and height. The strength and stiffness of the low volume VVA chassis can be modified cost effectively by varying the wall thickness of the extrusions, without altering the exterior dimensions. The ability to lengthen or shorten extrusions with the option to tailor the chassis stiffness, vastly increases the number of vehicles that can be developed from this vehicle architecture. Front and mid engine installations have been considered, as well as hybrid and Electric Vehicle (EV) applications.

The Lotus Evora employs a composite roof as a stressed structural member to give an exceptional vehicle stiffness of 26,000 Nm per degree, thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame's secondary function as a roll over structure, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis and modules weight just 200 kg (prototype weight), helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1350 kg (prototype weight).

To deliver this high performance structure, bonded and riveted high grade aluminium extrusions and simple and elegant folded sheet elements are used in the lower structure, building upon award winning research projects in this field. Lotus pioneered the technology of bonded aluminium extrusions for use in road vehicles and has successfully developed high performance cars for other car companies around the world.

The central tub is attached to an extruded aluminium subframe at the front and a lightweight welded steel subframe at the rear. These subframe modules also offer advantages in terms of convenience and low cost of repair, and during manufacturing can be brought to the production line fully assembled, ready to be attached.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis will be manufactured at the new Lotus Lightweight Structures facility in Worcester, UK. LLS employs 120 skilled engineers, technicians and sales staff and will manufacture all the Lotus aluminium structures, including those for the Elise, Exige, 2--Eleven and Europa and aluminium and composite structures and components for Lotus's extensive global client base.

Suspended & animated
The Evora suspension wishbones are forged from aluminium to reduce the unsprung mass. These are similar in weight, and stiffer than the steel items found on the much smaller Elise, Exige and Europa vehicles, and have a far higher vehicle weight capacity. They are attached to the front and rear modules via bespoke bushes. The Evora will use Bilstein high performance dampers and Eibach springs with unique dual path top mounts for optimised vehicle refinement. Hydraulically assisted power steering is provided by a Lotus tuned TRW steering rack.

All in all, the Evora delivers. It has incredible Lotus handling and provides unsurpassable driving pleasure. In fact, word from the ride and handling team is that the new car is likely to become a class standard-setter for speed and agility.

Stop right now...
Vented and cross-drilled brake discs -- massive 350mm items on the front and 332mm at the rear -- and high performance bespoke Lotus AP Racing 4 pot callipers ensure impressive stopping power.

Everyone connected with the brake testing programme, conducted on the punishing corners, climbs and descents of the Nu"rburgring, has described the brakes as 'phenomenal' with excellent thermal performance and outstanding feel even after extended sessions of extreme use.

Part of that testing programme was to finalise settings for the ABS system being developed in conjunction with Bosch. The system is set to very high thresholds and operates so progressively that drivers are often unaware that they have actually triggered the ABS.

Safe. Fun. Lotus Traction Control
The Switchable Lotus Traction Control (LTC) system has been developed simultaneously with the ABS and works through the engine management system to reduce power when required to maintain traction. Unlike many traction control systems, LTC has been tuned to complement the skills of the driver without taking over. The Lotus LTC is active above 5 mph (8 km/h) and operates much more quickly than many brake based systems. The system can be deactivated completely, giving no traction control intervention.

Keeping a grip -- 18 inch at the front, 19 inch at the rear.
Tyre choice is a vital component in the handling performance of every Lotus and for the Evora, Yokohama was chosen as development partner.

Lotus's long-term relationship with Yokohama was swiftly rewarded during development when initially the front tyre size did not generate the Lotus required lateral grip, the Japanese grip gurus went away and developed bespoke tyres especially for the Evora -- a 225/40 ZR18 at the front and larger diameter; 255/35 ZR19 at the rear. Both have carcass construction and a rubber compound unique to Lotus and are identified by the letters 'LTS' on the sidewalls.

The V6 Engine - dual VVT-i ('intelligent' variable valve timing)
The exceptional working relationship that Lotus has enjoyed with Toyota over several decades, combined with the overwhelmingly enthusiastic reception for the company's four-cylinder power units in the Elise and Exige, guaranteed the Japanese giant's inclusion on the shortlist for the Evora engine supplier.

The final choice was Toyota's all-alloy 2GR-FE 3.5-litre V6 DOHC, with dual VVT-i ('intelligent' variable valve timing). Lotus has painstakingly developed its own T6e engine management software for this engine to optimise its compatibility with the unique requirements of the Evora to give a peak power output to 280 PS at 6400 rpm, while boosting its maximum torque to 342 Nm at 4700 rpm (prototype figures).

Changes to the engine management and exhaust systems also allow the V6 to rev more freely and provide rapid throttle response; feedback from the development team suggests that the strength of the engine's mid-range torque means that gutsy performance will be easily accessible without having to thunder through to the redline. This makes the Lotus Evora a thoroughly satisfying car for everyday road use and a rewarding one when you just want to drive.

The 2GR-FE V6 engine is mated to a manual six-speed gearbox, again Toyota-sourced. A close-ratio version of this gearbox is also currently under development for the even more sport-focussed driver.
Many Lotus owners enjoy the blend of unique performance and efficiency that the brand's cars offer. True to the Lotus value of "performance through light weight" CO2 emissions are expected to be a class leading sub-225 g/km (prototype figures) while testers report fuel consumption in the region of 30+ mpg (pending formal homologation testing).

What'll she do?
At the time of its unveiling, full performance figures have yet to be compiled on a production specification Lotus Evora, Lotus has another 6 months development to conduct.

While for Lotus top speed is of less importance than stability at speed, early indications suggest a maximum speed of 160 mph; the 0-60 mph sprint from standstill is estimated at sub 5 seconds (prototype figures).

Test. Test. Then test some more
It's a global car, so the Evora has been tested around the world. From the icy wastes of the arctic to the heat of the desert, the high altitude of the Alps as well as the country roads around the Hethel factory.

It has spent hours howling around the Nu"rburgring and endlessly lapped Lotus's test track at Hethel. By the time the Evora enters production, prototypes will have travelled for hundreds of thousands of miles along some of the worst public roads in the world and been tortured for as many miles on some of the toughest proving grounds the motor industry has to offer including extreme pave tests, to Australia and even the Arizona outback.

It has been flung into barriers at low and high speeds, at a multitude of angles, including head-on; it has even had its roof compressed!

By the time the Evora reaches the Lotus showrooms from Spring 2009 onwards, it will be the most thoroughly tested Lotus car in the history of Lotus. It will also be one of the company's great milestones.
The order book is now open in the UK and across continental Europe, with markets around the world to start taking orders in due course. Final specifications, options and prices of the production Lotus Evora will be published closer to the sale date in the many Lotus markets around the world.

Images : The New Lotus EVORA





[Source : Lotus]
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Honda's low-emission sportscar study model has been revealed at the British International Motor Show, at ExCel, London.

The lightweight roadster design study displays one of Honda's core engineering principles -- to design stylish and exciting cars that are also environmentally responsible.



Named the OSM (for Open Study Model), the two-seater joins the confirmed-for-production CR-Z sports hybrid and FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell car on the Honda stand at the show.

"We're trying to show that low emission cars can be attractive," says Andreas Sittel, Project Leader for OSM. "There is no reason why a car that's more environmentally friendly can't look great too -- and be sporty and fun to drive."

The concept for the project was 'Clean and Dynamic' -- and this direction was followed for both the exterior and interior design, ensuring a joined-up, consistent 'language' between the two. One example of this can be seen at the rear of the car, where the body actually extends into the cabin between the seats.

The exterior design is a balance of smooth, rounded curves and sharp lines to provide definition in key areas. The headlights are cleverly integrated into the front end, stretching from the nose to the top of the wheel arches to look more like a part of the original body.

Inside, this uninterrupted, fluid approach is continued, with long sweeping curves extending from both door panels to form a frame for the instrument display. The concept for the dashboard was to avoid creating the traditional block of 'heavy' colour and material in front of the driver; in keeping with the clean and lightweight theme. For that reason, the dash is broken into sections, with the most important instruments in direct line-of-sight of the driver.

Key information is displayed in a rounded, enclosed central binnacle, with levels and figures in bright blue on a black background. This matches the trim inside the car, with the seats and door furniture trimmed in a new, gloss-effect blue leather, accompanied by white leather sections, in line with the exterior body colour, a one-off paint called Mystic Pearl.

The driver's main controls and functions are distributed in an intuitive layout, close at hand on a panel that curves downwards to the right of the driver. A centrally-mounted semi-sequential gear-shift points towards a fun-to-drive transmission, along with paddle shifts either side of the steering wheel. Integrated into the gearshifter itself is a red ignition 'start' button, which reinforces the sporty direction of the car.

The Honda OSM was designed by Honda's R&D facility in Offenbach, Germany. It's the latest example of the young talent being developed within Honda's design studios in Europe -- following the Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept (Geneva 2007) and the Accord Tourer Concept (Frankfurt 2007).

At present, the Honda OSM is a design study model, and there are no plans for it to enter production.

Images : Honda OSM Concept



[Source : Honda UK]
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British International Motor Show, London, 22 July, 2008 -- Ford's new range of super frugal ECOnetic models showcased at this year's British International Motor Show is leading the company's bid to cut UK CO₂ emissions by over 80,000 tonnes.



Independent industry analysis shows that if customers continue their move into lower CO₂ and higher mpg Ford models, 83,818 tonnes of CO₂ a year would be avoided -- equivalent to annual emissions from around 13,000 homes.

Leading eco motoring website, www.cleangreencars.co.uk, calculated the environmental effect of all Ford buyers switching to the lowest CO₂ model in the current range without downsizing.

Today's launch of the 76.3mpg Fiesta ECOnetic, producing 98g CO₂/km, hands the title of UK's greenest car to Ford. Its potential impact based on Cleangreencars' calculations would be to remove a further 10,750 tonnes of CO₂ if chosen by all new Ford Fiesta buyers so far this year.

The new Ford Fiesta ECOnetic joins the Ford Focus ECOnetic, which went on sale earlier this year and achieves CO₂ emissions of 115g/km and fuel consumption of 65.6mpg (combined cycle). The Ford Mondeo ECOnetic went on sale this month and offers large car comfort combined with fuel economy of over 53mpg and CO₂ of 139g/km.

Cleangreencars' figures were based on all Fiesta, Focus and Mondeo customers opting for ECOnetic models within the same range -- and drivers of other models choosing the most fuel efficient Ford in the range. The company's car sales of 236,636 across nine segments in the first half of the year were multiplied by the segment's average Ford CO₂ and compared with the best available from ECOnetics and other green Fords over 10,000 miles.

Roelant de Waard, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director, said: "This research shows the full potential of an accelerating trend towards greener motoring. In the first half of this year, we have seen a 38 per cent rise in sales of all Fords achieving under 120g CO₂. Thanks to Cleangreencars we've seen what could happen if this swing continues within each of our model ranges."

The Cleangreencars website lists three Ford Focus models including ECOnetics in its top five small family cars based on eco friendly credentials. The 44mpg Ford Kuga, with 169g CO₂, is named its cleanest greenest 4x4 and Ford Mondeo ECOnetic is shortlisted as an eco large family car.

Jay Nagley, website publisher, said: "Cleangreencars has criticised car manufacturers for not reducing CO₂ emissions quickly enough -- and will continue to do so. However, these figures show that consumers can also play their part: when car manufacturers make lower CO₂ cars available, consumers are able to choose accordingly."

At the same time that the Fiesta ECOnetic is being launched, Ford is announcing that all Ford dealerships in the UK will offer service customers the option of offsetting their vehicles' CO₂ from September this year. Ford will be the first auto manufacturer in the UK to launch this initiative spanning service intervals based on engine size and mileage. CO₂ will be offset via BP's Targetneutral scheme.

Images : 2008 Ford Focus ECOnetic



Images : 2008 Ford Fiesta ECOnetic




[Source : FORD]
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British International Motor Show, London, 22 July, 2008 – Ford's new ultra-frugal Fiesta was unveiled at the British International Motor Show today, completing the company's small, medium and large car ECOnetic line-up.



The wraps came off the 76.3mpg Ford Fiesta ECOnetic – Britain's greenest family car with CO2 emissions of 98g/km. On sale from £11,800 by the end of this year, Ford Fiesta ECOnetic joins existing Mondeo and Focus ECOnetic models.

Ford Focus ECOnetic has led a 38 per cent sales surge in the first half of this year generated by Ford's sub-120g/km CO2 vehicles – all powered by Dagenham's 1.4/1.6 TDCi engines. Earlier this month the sub-140g/km Ford Mondeo ECOnetic went on sale.

Ford Fiesta ECOnetic
The Fiesta ECOnetic becomes the most fuel efficient new five-seater family car in the UK. With CO2 emissions at under 100g/km, Ford Fiesta ECOnetic is zero rated both for road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) and for the 'showroom tax' element of VED introduced for the first year of ownership in this year's Budget.

Aerodynamic body styling, lowered suspension, low resistance tyres and low friction oil all help the Ford Fiesta ECOnetic achieve ultra low CO2 emissions. Additionally a green shift indicator in the instrument cluster highlights the optimal point to change gear to maximise fuel economy.

Roelant de Waard, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director, said: "Many drivers are prepared to be green - but still want comfort, performance and an affordable price. ECOnetic answers that demand.

"Ford's ECOnetic range, complete with new Fiesta, delivers style with a green conscience."

Fiesta ECOnetic – what's different?

• Aerodynamic rear air deflectors
• Lowered suspension
• Optimised rolling resistance tyres (175/65R14) and low friction oil
• Green shift indicator light
• Modified engine calibration
• Transmission final drive ratio changed from 3.37 to 3.05

ECOnetic Fuel Consumption.

1.6 Fiesta TDCi		Urban (mpg)	Extra urban	Combined (mpg)	Price
3-door
90PS		61.4	88.3	76.3	£11,845
5-door
90PS		61.4	88.3	76.3	£12,445

Images : Ford Fiesta ECOnetics



[Source : Ford]
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• Three new high-performance Special Edition Imprezas
• 255 PS Impreza WRX-S at £22,495 OTR
• 330 PS Impreza WRX STI 330S for around £30,000 OTR
• Ultimate 380 PS Impreza WRX STI 380S concept

Subaru has scored a high-performance hat-trick for the British International Motor Show with the launch of no less than three new Special Edition new-shape Impreza models – two of which can be seen at the show.



All receive Prodrive engine upgrades plus comfort and styling tweaks, giving enthusiasts an unprecedented choice of sporty Subarus.

The 255 PS Impreza WRX-S costs a highly-competitive £22,495 while the 330 PS Impreza WRX STI 330S will be priced at around £30,000 (both on-the-road). First deliveries are expected in September.

Still in concept stage is the 380 PS Impreza WRX STI 380S which could become available within the next six months pending positive customer response.

Visitors to the show (July 23 to August 3, ExCeL, London) can see both the STI 380S concept and the WRX-S on Subaru's stand N23.

Impreza WRX-S Offers More Power And Style
Based on the new Impreza WRX, the 'S' model offers £4,500 worth of extras for a £2,500 premium, costing £22,495 OTR.

Banbury-based Prodrive has re-programmed the 2.5 litre 'boxer' engine's ECU (electronic control unit) and modified the exhaust system. This sees power leap from 230 PS at 5,200 rpm to 255 PS at 5,400 rpm while the torque improvement is even greater, growing from 236 lb.ft at 2,800 rpm to 287.6 at 3,000 rpm – a staggering 51 lb. ft more.

Maximum speed remains at 130 mph but the 0-60 mph time drops from 6.1 seconds to 5.5 seconds. Naturally, in-gear flexibility is greatly enhanced.

The new Impreza WRX-S also boasts 18x7.5 ins anthracite GT1 alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres, an STI front grille, STI front lip spoiler and STI rear wing and body-colour tailgate moulding.

Also standard is a MOMO 'Air-Race' gearknob while the colour choice is between San Remo Red, WR Blue Mica, Obsidian Black Pearl and Satin White Pearl.

Standard equipment on the Impreza 2.5 WRX-S includes front and rear spoilers, side skirts, a rear diffuser, leather-covered steering wheel, all-wheel drive, a rear limited-slip differential with Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, 10-speaker, six-disc radio/CD player and xenon headlamps.

Impreza WRX STI 330S Brings Back The Burble
The new Impreza WRX STI 330S also benefits from a Prodrive Performance pack with modified ECU and exhaust system – this time with paired twin 90 mm diameter stainless steel exhaust pipes to bring back the burble so loved by 'scooby' fans.

Power goes up to 330 PS at only 5,400 rpm compared to the 300.5 PS at 6,000 rpm of the standard model.

Torque is boosted from 300.2 lb ft at 4,000 rpm to 346.6 lb ft at a lower 3,400 rpm making for an even swifter, effortless driving experience.

Top speed is the same 155.3 mph but the 0-60 mph time drops from an already swift 4.8 seconds to only 4.4 seconds.

Expected to be priced at around £30,000 OTR, the new Impreza WRX STI 330S has an especially luxurious specification – even compared to the already well-equipped standard STI which costs £26,595 OTR.

Upgrades include leather-covered Recaro front seats, satellite navigation, Smart-entry and push-button start.

Visually, the new special-edition sports new five-spoke 18x8.5 ins alloy wheels wearing 245/40 R18 tyres. It will be available in the full range of STI colours.

Standard equipment on the Impreza WRX STI includes a six-speed gearbox, Si-Drive giving three different engine response modes, a Multi-mode Driver Control Centre Differential, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control and – of course – symmetrical all-wheel drive with front and rear limited-slip differentials.

Show-Stopping WRX STI 380S Concept
Sure to be a crowd-puller is Subaru's range-topping special edition Impreza WRX STI 380S which previews at the London International Motor Show.

Dubbed a concept, the STI 380S could reach dealers within six months pending positive response. Its final specification will be finalised following customer input and will be hand-built to order.

The STI 380S will include a complete engine rebuild by Prodrive with many up-rated components to reliably achieve the target 380 PS.

Improvements over the standard Impreza WRX STI will include uprated suspension and exhaust system plus an enhanced body kit.

Other visual changes will be the option of either gold or silver-coloured 18x8.5 ins BBS alloy wheels with 245/40 tyres.

Image : Subaru Impreza WRX-S



Image : Subaru Impreza WRX STI 330S



[Source : Subaru]
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SEAT will be taking the wraps off one of its most important new models in years as it gears up for the world debut of the stunning new Ibiza SportCoupé at the British International Motor Show.



Presented at the vast ExCeL show venue by President of SEAT S. A. Mr Erich Schmitt, the new car – expected to be the best-selling Ibiza variant in the UK – is sure to be a highlight of the 2008 event.

SEAT’s decision to light up Britain’s biennial motor fest’ with the public unveiling of its sporty newcomer underlines the Spanish car maker’s commitment to the UK – one of SEAT’s most important global markets.

The latest, exciting example of ‘auto emoción’ joins the new Ibiza 5dr – on sale officially from Wednesday 16th July – in the vanguard of an exciting new product offensive that will see SEAT attack entirely new segments of the market with an array of innovative and attractive new models.

Also drawing the crowds to SEAT’s impressive stand at ExCeL will be several versions of the new Ibiza 5dr, as well as UK debuts for the Spaniards’ latest additions to the green-minded Ecomotive line-up. Both the Leon Ecomotive and Alhambra Ecomotive will be making their first appearance in Britain at the event.

The Altea ‘family’ – Altea, Altea XL and Altea Freetrack 4 – will be represented, of course, as will SEAT’s iconic Leon Cupra; the latter boasting a vivid new paint job that’s sure to turn heads.

Director of SEAT UK, Peter Wyhinny, said of the powerful show line-up: ‘Our decision to make the dramatic world debut of the stunning SportCoupé in London underlines not only SEAT’s commitment to the British International Motor Show, but also our appreciation of the importance of the British car market to SEAT’s global aspirations.

[Source : British International Motor Show]
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Even Honda Motor Co. is feeling the pain of consumers' stampede from light trucks to cars.

The Japanese automaker said today that it will reduce production of the Honda Odyssey minivan and Honda Pilot crossover by a combined 10,000 units this year at its Lincoln, Ala., assembly plant. In the first half of 2008, Honda built 158,316 Odysseys and Pilots in Lincoln, down 2.4 percent from the same period of 2007.



"Honda is not immune to the shift in the market," said Honda spokesman David Iida. "We don't want inventories to get too high."

The production cut will be made from August through October. The Lincoln plant will close Aug. 1 and Aug. 29, and the plant's second shift will be canceled each Friday during the three months.


Honda wants to keep Pilot and Odyssey inventory between a 45- and 60-day supply, Iida said.

On July 1, Honda had a 78-day supply of Odysseys and a 99-day supply of Pilots, according to the Automotive News Data Center.

There will be no layoffs at the plant, Iida said. Honda will use the time for employee training and other work. Workers also could take paid or unpaid vacation time, he said.

Honda will consolidate light-truck production in Lincoln by moving output of the Honda Ridgeline pickup there from Alliston, Ontario.

Ridgeline production in Lincoln will begin in early 2009. Production trials begin in a few months, Iida said.

Honda also will increase output of the Honda Civic compact at its plants in East Liberty, Ohio, and Alliston. Honda did not say how much Civic production will rise.

[Source : Automotive News .. Sub req.]

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All-new, world-class sports car

Fuel-efficient, 3.6L direct-injected V-6 delivers an estimated 26 mpg on the highway

Range of fuel-saving, six-speed transmissions standard on all models and powertrains

Powerful SS models equipped with LS3 V-8 (manual transmission) and L99 with Active Fuel Management Active Fuel Management Active Fuel Management enables an engine to run on only four cylinders during light-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising, to improve fuel economy. (automatic transmission)

Advanced vehicle technology, including Bluetooth Bluetooth -- Bluetooth phone connectivity is for hands free phone use, which provides easier and safer calling and dialing. connectivity and available HID headlamps with integrated halo rings

Designed, engineered and built with GM’s global development process

DETROIT –Chevrolet introduced the production 2010 Camaro today. It is a heritage-inspired sports car for the 21 st century, combining great looks and performance; advanced technology and surprising efficiency – including 26-mpg estimated highway fuel economy. Sales begin in the first quarter of 2009.



Built on GM’s new, global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Camaro is offered in V-6-powered LS and LT models, as well as the V-8-powered SS. All models and powertrain combinations include fuel-saving six-speed transmissions.

“Camaro delivers all of the things that make Chevrolet such a revered, global brand,” said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. “It competes with the world’s best sports cars and does so with styling, fuel economy and value our competitors simply can’t match.”

Advanced powertrain technologies, including engines with direct injection and Active Fuel Management, enable a satisfying balance of exhilarating performance and good fuel economy.

“The new Chevrolet Camaro delivers a thoroughly modern, advanced package of performance, comfort and technology,” said Peper. “It’s a sports car for a new generation of enthusiasts that doesn’t forget the heritage that helped make the original a cultural icon . That is no small feat and it took a worldwide commitment to achieve it.”

Indeed, the 2010 Camaro exemplifies GM’s global development process. The design concept originated in the United States; engineering was directed by GM’s global rear-wheel-drive team in Australia; validation was conducted on roads around the world and assembly will take place at GM’s award-winning Oshawa facility in Canada.

Product highlights include:

• Sleek styling with contemporary cues and 10 available exterior colors
• LS and LT models offered with an advanced, 3.6L direct-injected V-6 engine with variable valve timing and a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions
• SS model offered with 6.2L V-8 – including fuel-saving Active Fuel Management on automatic-equipped combinations – and a six-speed manual transmission
• Four-wheel independent suspension system, including a 4.5-link rear suspension
• Variable-rate power steering with the rack mounted forward of the front axle for greater driver feel
• Four-wheel disc brake systems standard on all models, including four-piston Brembo calipers on SS models
• Stabilitrak stability control system ( GM's StabiliTrack electronic stability control system uses sophisticated vehicle sensors tied to the anti-lock braking system to help the driver maintain control during certain maneuvers. The system provides increased vehicle control by continuously monitoring the car's steering angle, individual wheel speed, brake pressure, lateral acceleration and yaw rate. The information is then used to compare the direction the driver is steering with the vehicle's actual path, so the system can make the necessary corrections to help the driver keep the vehicle on path.) and traction control standard on all models
• Competitive/Sport modes for the stability system offered on SS models, including launch control on SS models equipped with the six-speed manual transmission
• Family of 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels
• Detailed interior with heritage-inspired design, excellent attention to detail and available ambient lighting via LED light pipe technology
• Robust body structure and exceptional build quality
• Six standard air bags, including head curtain side-impact air bags and front seat-mounted thorax side air bags
• RS appearance package available on LT and SS, including HID headlamps with integrated halo rings, spoiler, specific taillamps and 20-inch wheels

The new Camaro also has technologies that enhance performance, comfort and convenience, including:

• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Premium Boston Acoustics audio system
• USB connectivity
• Ultrasonic rear parking assist (late introduction)
• Remote vehicle starting system
• OnStar ( OnStar is the in-vehicle safety and security system created tohelp protect you and your family on the road. OnStar's innovative three-button system offers : 24-hour access to expertly trained, caring advisors, A connection to emergency assistance, Access to OnStar Hands-Free Calling )
• XM Satellite Radio
  

Additionally, details such as frameless door windows with automatic indexing glass contribute to the overall feeling of quality, substance and technical prowess.

Design details
With a design that is very faithful to the original concept, the 2010 Camaro is a 21 st century sports car that acknowledges its heritage. A long front dash-to-axle and short rear deck give the Camaro classic proportions, while a sleek windshield profile, wheels pushed to the corners and muscular fender forms are modern elements that reinforce its advanced engineering – and give the car a decidedly aggressive stance.

Elements such as a forward-V shape at the front of the car and “gills” in the rear quarter panels are distinctly Camaro cues, as are the broad rear fender “shoulders.” Those elements make the new Camaro instantly recognizable, but their execution is smoothly integrated into the contemporary exterior form. A family of large, 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels also contributes to the Camaro’s modern appearance.

“The new Camaro is just that – new,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. “We acknowledge the nameplate’s strong heritage in the design, but recognize that keeping this modern sports car relevant meant more than simply honoring a classic car. The line forms, stance and overall execution are consistent with other new Chevrolets.”

A well-executed balance of heritage, modern design and attention to detail also characterizes the Camaro’s interior. A pair of deeply recessed instrument binnacles that feature round gauges in square housings is a nod to classic Camaros, while an available ambient light package offers advanced LED light pipe technology to give the cabin a distinctive and inviting glow. Cloth upholstery is standard; heated leather-appointed seats are available.

Details such as large, chrome-trimmed controls, low-gloss surfaces and premium fabric or acrylic appliqués convey a richness that is unprecedented in previous Camaro models – and challenge its contemporary competitors. More great detail is evidenced in the available center-console gauge cluster, which takes its cue from a similar option on 1969 Camaros. It displays oil temperature, oil pressure, state-of-battery and transmission fluid temperature, all highlighted with modern LED backlighting.

Powertrains

An advanced, efficient 3.6L direct-injected V-6 with variable valve timing is standard on LS and LT models. Direct injection technology helps the engine deliver more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions. That means less fuel is consumed and lower emissions generated – including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.

The Camaro’s 3.6L engine also employs variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel economy across the rpm range. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 273 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm). A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 3.6L engine; a Hydra-Matic 6L50 electronically controlled six-speed automatic, with TAPshift control, is available.

The high-performance Camaro SS is equipped with a powerful 6.2L V-8, with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Standard, manual transmission-equipped models receive the LS3 engine, estimated at 422 horsepower (315 kW) and 408 lb.-ft. of torque (553 Nm). The LS3 debuted on the 2008 Corvette and uses high-flow cylinder heads based on the Corvette Z06’s LS7 engine to enable great low-end torque and high-rpm power. It is paired with a TR6060 six-speed transmission.

A new, L99 V-8 engine is used on automatic transmission-equipped SS models. It is based on the LS3 and carries all of its high-performance design features, but also includes GM’s fuel-saving Active Fuel Management feature. It enables the engine to run on only four cylinders during light-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising, to improve fuel economy. The V-8 is estimated at 400 horsepower (299 kW) and 395 lb.-ft. of torque (535 Nm); and it is matched with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed transmission. This combination delivers an estimated 23 mpg on the highway.

Body structure and chassis
The 2010 Camaro is built on GM’s global rear-wheel-drive architecture, with a strong body structure that enhances safety, quietness and handling. World-class build quality and attention to detail are enabled by features including one-piece body side stampings and very precise tolerances between body panels.

Front and rear independent suspensions are mounted to the rigid chassis, including a multi-link strut arrangement in the front with a direct-acting stabilizer bar and a double ball-joint configuration; and a unique, 4.5-link rear suspension that is double-isolated from the chassis for smoother, quieter driving experience.

Camaro offers two suspensions. LS and LT models receive an FE2 (sport) suspension, while the SS receives the FE3 (performance) suspension, including a lower ride height. Each is tuned to match the performance capabilities of their respective powertrains, as are their wheel-and-tire combinations.

A variable-rate rack-and-pinion power steering system mounts the rack forward of the front axle, for more direct action, an enhanced feeling of driver feedback and better weight balance.

Brakes and chassis control
Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on all models. LS and LT models receive single-piston calipers all around, with mass-reducing aluminum rear calipers. SS models have larger rotors that are acted upon by four-piston, aluminum Brembo calipers at all four corners. They are designed to stand up to the severe use encountered on road-race tracks, delivering excellent feedback and pedal feel, as well as fade-resistant performance during racing.

GM’s StabilTrak electronic stability control system is standard and incorporates traction control. The system on SS models includes Competitive/Sport mode that is adjustable for performance driving, such as on a racetrack; it also includes a Launch Control feature on SS models with the manual transmission. It enables quicker, more consistent takeoffs during performance driving.

Safety
Designed to protect occupants before, during and after a crash, the Camaro offers a comprehensive system of safety features – starting with a robust body structure and integral safety cage around the passenger compartment. High-strength steel and ultra high-strength steel are used in key areas throughout the structure.

Safety technologies integrated in the Camaro include :

• Driver and front-passenger dual-stage air bags ( Dual-stage Air Bags are designed to inflate at high speed in serious crashes, but deploy with less force in minor-to-moderate crashes. The air bag system's sensors determined the severity of the crash, signaling the appropriate deployment speed. )
• Driver and front-passenger seat-mounted thorax side-impact air bags
• Head curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear seat occupants
• Front seat safety belt load limiters and pre-tensioners
• The front passenger detection system ( To avert potential injury risk from high-pressure airbag inflation, the front passenger detection system will suppress air bag deployment if a child or person of small stature is sensed sitting on the passenger seat. It also senses the presenceof a child restraint on the seat, and will suppress airbag deployment accordingly. The detection system uses a mat sensor embedded in the passenger seat that establishes the occupant’s weight and weight distribution. If this is below a certainlevel, the sensor alerts the SDM central control unit and the front passenger airbag will not deploy. ) senses children and small-stature adults and suppresses air bag deployment when appropriate.
• Standard OnStar service assists after a crash. With OnStar’s Advanced Crash Response System, the vehicle automatically sends a signal to OnStar for assistance, even if the air bags don’t deploy.

2010 CHEVROLET CAMARO SPECIFICATIONS

Overview :

Models:	Chevrolet Camaro LS, LT and SS
Body style / driveline:	four-passenger, front-engine, rear-drive coupe
Construction:	unitized body frame, one- and two-sided galvanized steel
EPA vehicle class:	coupe
Manufacturing location:	Oshawa, Ontario, Canada Oshawa Car Assembly Plant -- The plant assembles the Chevrolet Camaro and Impala and Buick Allure. The Oshawa Car Assembly Plant has placed among the leaders in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey for the premium and mid-size segment for a number of years.
Key competitors:	Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, Nissan 350Z

Engines :

	3.6L V-6 DI VVT (LLT)	6.2L V-8 (LS3, L99)
Application:	LS, LT	SS
Type:	3.6L V-6	6.2L V-8
Displacement (cu in / cc):	217 / 3564	376 / 6162
Bore & stroke (in / mm):	3.70 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6	4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x 92
Block material:	cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners	cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners
Cylinder head material:	aluminum	aluminum
Valvetrain:	dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing	valve-in-head; two valves per cylinder; roller lifters; Active Fuel Management (L99)
Ignition system:	electronic individual coil-on-plug; individual cylinder knock control and extended-life platinum-tipped spark plugs	high-energy distributorless ignition; solid state direct-fire ignition w/ coil near plug and integrated ignition
Fuel delivery:	direct high-pressure fuel injection	returnless, multi-port fuel injection
Compression ratio:	11.3:1	10.7:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):	300 / 224 @ 6400 rpm*	422 / 315 @ 5000 (LS3)* 400 / 299 @ 5000 (L99)*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):	273 / 370 @ 5200 rpm*	408 / 553 @ 4500 (LS3)* 395 / 535 @ 4500 (L99)*
Recommended fuel:	regular unleaded	premium recommended
Maximum engine speed (rpm):	7000	6000 (L99) 6600 (LS3)
Emissions controls:	evaporative system, single close-coupled catalytic converter, equal-length exhaust, single underfloor catalytic converter, positive crankcase ventilation, intake and exhaust cam phasers, electronic throttle control	evaporative system, close-coupled catalytic converters, positive crankcase ventilation, electronic throttle control
Fuel economy (auto trans):	26 hwy (est)	23 hwy (est)

Transmissions

	Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic (LS, LT) w/ TAPshift	Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic (SS) w/ TAPshift	Aisin Warner AY6 six-speed manual (LS, LT)	TR6060 six-speed manual (SS)
Gear ratios (:1):
First:	4.07	4.03	4.48	3.01
Second:	2.37	2.36	2.58	2.07
Third:	1.55	1.53	1.63	1.43
Fourth:	1.16	1.15	1.19	1.00
Fifth:	0.85	0.85	1.00	0.84
Sixth:	0.67	0.67	0.75	0.57
Reverse:	3.06	3.06	3.67	3.28
Final drive ratio:	3.27	3.27	3.27	3.45

Chassis/Suspension

Front:	double-ball-joint, multi-link strut; direct-acting stabilizer bar; progressive-rate coil springs; fully adjustable camber, caster and toe
Rear:	4.5-link independent; progressive-rate coil springs over shocks; stabilizer bar; fully adjustable camber and toe
Steering type:	variable-ratio rack-and-pinion
Steering ratio:	16.1:1
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:	2.5
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):	37.7/11.5

Brakes

Type:	four-wheel disc w/ ABS; ventilated front and rear rotors; single-piston front calipers and single-piston alloy rear calipers (LS, LT); four-piston fixed Brembo aluminum front and rear calipers (SS)
Rotor diameter, front (in / mm):	LS, LT: 12.64 / 321 SS: 14 / 355
Rotor diameter, rear (in / mm):	LS, LT: 12.4 / 315 SS: 14.4 / 365
Rotor thickness, front (in / mm):	LS, LT: 1.18 / 30 SS: 1.26 / 32
Rotor thickness, rear (in / mm):	LS, LT: 0.9 / 23 SS: 1.1 / 28

Wheels/Tires

	LS	LT	SS
Wheel size and type:	18 x 7.5-inch steel	18 x 7.5-inch aluminum 19 x 8-inch aluminum	20 x 8-inch aluminum (front) 20 x 9-inch aluminum (rear)
Tires:	P245/55R18 all-season	P245/55R18 all-season P245/50R19 all-season	P245/45ZR20 summer (front) P275/40ZR20 summer (rear)

Dimensions
Exterior

Wheelbase (in / mm):	112.3 / 2852
Overall length (in / mm):	190.4 / 4836
Overall width (in / mm):	75.5 / 1918
Overall height (in / mm):	54.2 / 1377
Track, front (in / mm):	63.7 / 1618
Track, rear (in / mm):	64.1 / 1628 (LS, LT) 63.7 / 1618 (SS)
Curb weight (lb / kg):	3750 / 1705 – LT w/ automatic 3741 / 1700 – LT w/ manual 3769 / 1713 – LS w/ automatic 3780 / 1718 – LS w/ manual 3913 / 1779 – SS w/ automatic 3860 / 1755 – SS w/ manual
Weight balance (% front / rear):	52 / 48

Interior

Seating capacity (front / rear):	2 / 2
Headroom (in / mm):	front: 37.4 / 950 rear: 35.3 / 897
Legroom (in / mm):	front: 42.4 / 1077 rear: 29.9 / 757
Shoulder room (in / mm):	front: 56.9 / 1444 rear: 42.5 / 1080

Capacities

Cargo volume (cu ft / L):	11.3 / 320
Fuel tank (gal / L):	19 / 71.9
Engine oil (qt / L):	3.6L: 7.6 / 7.2 6.2L: 8.9 / 8.5

Images Gallery : Official release 2010 Chevrolet Camaro













[Source : GM]
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July 21th, 2008, Mankhan - Darvi, 316 km.

Team France wins its first special stage and extends its lead in the overall standings

10th stage of 14
Liaison 1: 82 km
Special stage: 233 km
Liaison 2: 1 km

The Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson has already been underway for twelve days and once again the difficult conditions took their toll on some of the participants yesterday. For that reason, the teams Middle East, Porsche CN and Lybia-Rally-Raid were absent from today’s 10th leg from Mankhan to Darvi. The remaining 25 teams had an even stretch ahead of them with river crossings on the plain of the county Hovd. The 220 km long special stage led through the valley of the 3933 meter high Baatar Khairkhan Mountain range.



Torrential rains confronted many teams with significant difficulties. After midsummery temperatures at the start, torrential rains developed in the afternoon, which transformed the sandy paths of Mongolia into a muddy mess. Many of the crews had huge problems finding the checkpoints and didn’t reach Camp Darvi until the evening.

The Top 3 in the overall standings, Team France, Team Portugal and Team Germany 1, were the first to start the special stage in the morning. Armin Schwarz, pilot of Team Germany 1, was confident after he arrived at the destination. “It went well for us. We had no problems navigating.“ Only two punctures had cost them time. “When we put the car-jack in place during the second tire change, we realized that something was wrong with the car. In the last section we kept on touching down.“ They crossed the finish line on the wheel rim, with a torn up right front tire. “Our mechanics will fix the car now and then we’ll be off again tomorrow.“, stated Armin Schwarz matter-of-factly. The appraisal turned out though, that Team Germany 1 had missed some of the checkpoints on the stretch and therefore received a time penalty of 60 minutes. That means 11th place in the overall standings.

The leaders in the overall standings, the Frenchmen Christian Lavieille and Francois Borsotto came in shortly after Schwarz and captured their first victory in a special stage. Their Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia was in good condition, as it had been throughout the past days. Lavieille is aware that the competition is watching him closely now. “We haven’t however prepared a specific tactic for tomorrow’s trial“, the Frenchman said at the camp in the evening.

Team Portugal with Pedro Gameiro and Pedro Figueiredo landed in second place with a lag of 4:15 minutes. “The weather conditions, especially the rain during the last 15 kilometers, made the stretch a lot more difficult than we thought. Loads of puddles and bumps. But we did come in second and are second overall too. We want to make up some time during the stage tomorrow“, Pedro Gameiro said confidently.

The young Team USA is gathering more and more momentum and came in third today. Together with his navigator Colin Godby, Ryan Millen, son of last year’s winner Rod Millen, mastered the demanding stretch brilliantly and crossed the finish line with a lag of 9:03 minutes.

The first team to arrive at the destination, almost an hour ahead of Schwarz/Schulz, was Colombian Arrow. “From a certain moment on, we couldn’t see anything anymore with all the rain and the steam. The clouds were hanging low over the valley and I thought, if something happens to us now, no helicopter will be able to land. I made the decision to abort the special stage and drive along the main road to the camp for safety reasons“, explained Christian Pfeil-Schneider his quick arrival. He calmly accepted the time penalties which awaited him and his co-driver Tommy Steuer.

For the first time in the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson, a crew pressed the emergency button. The Suzuki/Maxi Team, with rally newcomers Melina Frey and Alexandra Hahn, sounded the alarm when they watched a vehicle roll over several times. Deep grooves filled with rainwater proved the undoing of the Swiss Team Desert Fox during a passing maneuver. The driver lost control of his Mitsubishi Pajero. Pilot Aurele Bachmann as well as co-pilot Damien Blanke were not hurt, but the vehicle was totaled.

Tomorrow, the 11th stage of this year’s Transsyberia Rally powered by Sony Ericsson is taking place. It’ll run over 200 km in eastward direction to Altay in the district with the same name. How many of today’s 25 teams will continue, will not be determined until Tuesday morning, since repairs on several cars have to be made overnight.

Click to Overall Result

Image gallery : July 20th, 2008 * Ölgy - Mankhan






All images are copyright © Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson

[Source : Official 2008 Transsyberia Rally]
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SUNDERLAND – July 21, 2008: Nissan celebrates the 25th anniversary of its iconic Micra today with a motorcade of 25 special edition models, travelling from the Nissan factory in Sunderland to ExCeL in London. The motorcade started at 09.00-hrs at the British plant where the Micra has been built for the past 16 years, supplying the UK and European markets, plus 44 countries around the world.


The Micra motorcade will travel on A-roads and motorways as the special edition Micra 25s drive 300 miles to the London exhibition centre, venue of the British International Motor Show, where the Micra 25 will make its UK public debut tomorrow.

To mark 25 years of its iconic small car, Nissan is producing the special edition ‘Micra 25’ which sports a unique ‘Night Shade’ metallic black exterior paint and sophisticated ‘Satin’ effect door handles, hinting that this little car has grown up. Micra 25 features a host of equipment, especially appealing to younger drivers, including an iPod connection, electric windows and air-conditioning. Although the Micra celebrates its 25th birthday today, it will always be young at heart!

Covered with brightly coloured 25th anniversary decals, each Micra 25 in today’s motorcade features a single white letter on the roof, which – when the parade is viewed from above – reads ‘Micra 25 at British Motor Show’.

Among the drivers in the cavalcade are staff from the factory who have been part of the Nissan Micra’s success story. Keith Barkley has worked at the Sunderland plant for 19 years. Before setting off from the factory this morning, he said: “It is a real honour to take part in Micra’s 25th anniversary celebrations. My wife and I are looking forward to seeing how the new special edition model performs on such a long journey. I’m sure it will live up to Micra’s great reputation, especially if it’s one I have helped to build!”


A British manufacturing and export success
The Nissan Micra first went into production in Japan in 1983. Sales of the small car boomed during its first year and Nissan quickly recognised its strong appeal to UK and European motorists. It was no surprise that production was moved to Britain in 1992 with the launch of the second generation model.

Thanks to the superior quality and productivity of the Sunderland workers, demand for the Micra went from strength to strength, which meant a second assembly line was added a few months after UK production began, and in 1998 the one millionth model was built. To date 2.2 million Micras have been manufactured in Sunderland.

The face of the Micra has changed considerably since its early days. Originally built with conservative square styling, the first generation Micra was available as a three-door model with a 1.0-litre engine. British drivers appreciated having a small run-around that was ultra-reliable. Later, in 1989, Micra received a face-lift, consisting of a new look grille, headlamps, deeper bumpers and a new 1.2-litre engine.

Although the first generation model finished production in 1992, a survey by British automotive magazine, Auto Express, 14 years later in 2006, showed that a remarkable 30 percent of the 340,000 Micras built (96,000) were still on the road.

When production at the Sunderland plant kicked off with the second generation Micra, this model received an entirely new rounded body that appealed to younger drivers. The new Micra offered two engines sizes (1.0 and 1.3-litre), plus a host of equipment and safety features not normally available on a small car at that time. The British ‘love affair’ with Micra continued and the chic city car later won the European Car of the Year Award in 1993.

Today’s Micra was first introduced in 2002 and its distinctive bold rounded features and spacious interior quickly increased its popularity around the globe. Within 20 months of production, 250,000 units were exported to 44 markets outside the UK.

Related article : Nissan Micra enjoys of 25th birthday

[Source : Nissan]
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LONDON - July 21, 2008: The arrival on Britain’s roads of the first fully electric-powered car moves one step closer today with the UK motor show debut of the new TH!NK city electric vehicle.



Displayed at the 2008 British International Motor Show at ExCeL London by Norwegian electric vehicle pioneers Think, a company with 17 years experience in electric vehicles, the new TH!NK city will be available for UK customer orders next summer.

TH!NK city is a true, modern urban car, not a quadricycle. It is a fully environmental vehicle, emission free and 95 percent recyclable. With an energy efficiency three times that of a traditional combustion engine car, it is a vehicle that realistically meets the growing challenges of environmental protection, traffic congestion and emissions legislation.

The two-seater urban car has a top speed of 65 miles per hour. It accelerates from zero to 30 mph in just 6.5 seconds and to 50 mph in 16 seconds. It requires just an overnight top-up of electricity and can travel for 126 miles in city driving on a fully charged battery. To charge the batteries from 20 per cent capacity to 80 percent takes just four hours. Over 10,000 miles use, the total cost of electricity used to power a TH!NK city will be in the region of £100.

TH!NK city is designed to meet the strict safety requirements of both Europe and the USA, as a genuinely-safe road car. It is the world’s only crash-tested and highway-certified EV. The car is equipped with ABS brakes, airbags and three-point safety belts with pretensioners and it surpasses all European and US requirements.

“Unlike the lower-range, electric quadricycles that have had limited success in the UK, the TH!NK city is a real car which provides a realistic option for those motorists who want to drive a true zero emissions car,” said Richard Blundell, Managing Director of Think UK.

“Concern for the environment has been at the heart of the development of TH!NK city. It’s not only environmentally sound to drive, but the car itself is designed to be recycled,” he said, “Driving a silent car will give urban motorists a totally new experience. The TH!NK city produces no waste heat and no pollution. Critically for London and many other urban markets it beats the congestion charge!”

“Moreover, the TH!NK city is fund to drive, cheap to run, great to look at, generates incredible mileage figures and is extremely kind on the environment. This is a proposition that we believe will interest many drivers who are re-thinking their approach to motoring,” he added.

Engineers, developers, buyers and designers in the Think company have focused on utilising clean recyclable materials and non-polluting production processes. The dashboard can be completely recycled. The fabrics, body, supports, air ducts, adhesives and fixings are designed using the same recyclable materials.

TH!NK city’s body is made of recyclable ABS plastic, designed specifically for city driving. Not only is it ideal for motorists who want to avoid visible scratches and irritating dents, the unpainted, self-coloured plastic bodywork also reduces both energy consumption and toxins, while making the panels easier to recycle. The battery is returned to the supplier at the end of its useable life.

These factors have been warmly welcomed by the auto insurance industry, resulting in reduced auto insurance rates by as much as 30-50 per cent.

Standard equipment on each TH!NK city includes power steering, central locking, a 4kW electric heater, and electric windows and mirrors. Optional equipment will include air conditioning, a pre-heat timer, electrically heated windscreen, full length sunroof, Radio CD with MP3, USB, Bluetooth, a navigation & multimedia system, alloy wheels, roof rack and 2 + 2 child seats (including 3-point seat belts)

Production started this year in Norway, and the first batch of right-hand drive cars will be delivered to UK customers in summer 2009. Prices of the TH!NK city will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

[Source : Auto Channel]

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Cologne. The first compact vehicle of the Swedish premium automobile manufacturer is also in model year 2009 as the Volvo C30 Edition. Numerous high-quality equipment features for exterior and interior, the Volvo C30 Edition an attractive offer. It stands for five engines from 100 hp (74 kW) and 136 hp (100 kW) and offers the customer a price advantage of up to 1,860, - Euro.



The Volvo C30 Edition models have the basic variants to a variety of additional features equipment on board. These include the 17-inch alloy wheels "Spartacus", deposits in aluminum center console and doors, leather steering wheel, Lederschalt-/wählhebel and leather hand brake.

In addition, the audio package "high performance" with radio / CD player, an output of 4 x 40 watts and eight speakers. The system ensures perfect sound that is MP3-capable and with a auxiliary input for connecting external devices.

The Volvo C30 Edition is available in five engine variants. These include two petrol engine with an output of 100 hp (74 kW) and 125 hp (92 kW), the Flexi-Fuel 1.8F version with 125 hp (92 kW) and two diesel engines with

109 hp (80 kW) and 136 hp (100 kW). The Volvo C30 2.0D Edition is equipped with six-speed manual or the new Volvo Power Shift double-clutch gearbox.

The Volvo C30 Edition can also includes all options, wheels and upholstery, with the exception of the R-design package and 16-inch alloy wheels combined. The price advantage for the customer is depending on the motorization up to 1,860, - Euro. The prices of the Volvo C30 Edition start at 19,900, - Euro.

[Source : Volvo, Germany]
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Tokyo - Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), with a long-term aim toward enhancing its ability to flexibly respond to rapid fluctuations in North American market demand and toward facilitating a stable supply of North American-made vehicles - announces the following changes to its North American production structure.



Tokyo, July 19, 2008 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), with a long-term aim toward enhancing its ability to flexibly respond to rapid fluctuations in North American market demand and toward facilitating a stable supply of North American-made vehicles - announces the following changes to its North American production structure.

1) The currently under-construction Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Mississippi, Inc. (TMMMS), which was originally scheduled to produce the "Highlander" SUV, is to instead begin production of the "Prius" hybrid in the latter half of 2010.

2) Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc. (TMMI) is to begin production of the Highlander in the fall of 2009.

3) Production of the "Tundra" full-size pickup truck, currently built at TMMI and Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc. (TMMTX), is to be consolidated at TMMTX in the spring of 2009.

The production of the Prius at TMMMS is to represent the second Toyota hybrid vehicle produced in North America, where Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) already produces the "Camry Hybrid". In North America, strong demand for hybrid vehicles is expected to continue. Therefore, TMC, as a step toward a more stable North American production structure, intends to respond to customer needs by localizing hybrid vehicle production.

The introduction of the Highlander at TMMI and the consolidation of Tundra production at TMMTX are intended to increase efficiencies at both plants and to achieve steady plant-utilization rates.

Furthermore, as a response to a rapid fluctuation in truck-market demand, TMC announces that operation of the Tundra and Sequoia production line at TMMI, the Tundra production line at TMMTX and the Tundra and Sequoia engine production lines at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama, Inc. (TMMAL) is to be suspended for approximately three months from early August through to November. During this non-production period, employees are to mainly be assigned to participate in "continuous improvement"activities and training. TMC intends to use the opportunity presented by this period to cultivate its employees, with a long-term aim to further increase the productivity of its vehicle production plants in North America.

[Source : JCN Newswire via Auto Channel]
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• The new 2010 Ford Mustang, in camouflage, will pace the Wis. Ford is the sponsor of the Kohler International Challenge vintage race.
• Saturday is “Ford Mustang Day,” meaning Mustang drivers and passengers can enjoy the festivities for free. This includes a dedicated “Mustang Corral” inside the front straightaway.

DEARBORN, Mich., July 17, 2008 – A sneak peek at the future Ford Mustang will help kick off the celebration of a historic Mustang racing win this weekend at Road America, the largest vintage car event in North America.



Enthusiasts will be part of a special public “debut” of the highly anticipated 2010 Ford Mustang, which will serve as the pace car for the vintage racing field throughout the weekend. The next-generation Mustang will be outfitted in a special “camo” package, keeping some key design cues secret until its reveal later this year.

The camouflaged future version of America’s favorite muscle car will look right at home in Elkhart Lake, Wis., along with a 2009 Ford Mustang Bullitt and a 2009 Ford Fusion with a limited-edition “Blue Suede Package.”

Saturday marks Ford Mustang Day at Road America featuring a “Mustang Corral” along the straightaway. Every Ford Mustang and its occupants will be admitted free on Saturday to the Kohler International Challenge presented by Ford.

“One of the key components of our program is to meet our customers face-to-face, and the Kohler International Challenge provides an excellent opportunity for Ford to interact with a group of dedicated, knowledgeable enthusiasts,” said Robert Parker, Car Marketing manager, Ford Division. “Road America and the vintage weekend provides an opportunity for customers to get behind the wheel and for Ford to show off our new product line, while still highlighting the fact Ford has been involved in racing since the inception of our company more than a century ago.”

While historic race cars will be gracing the famous race track, enthusiasts on hand also will be able to get behind the wheel of some of Ford’s latest products at the Briggs & Stratton track located inside the Road America circuit. Ford will have the 2009 Flex, Escape, Edge, Fusion, Focus coupe and other vehicles available for consumers to test drive all weekend.

The 25th anniversary of the then-highly anticipated 1983 Mustang GTP debut and its rain-soaked maiden victory is the foundation forthe on-and off-track events.

The Mustang GTP car that won that day will be on display for the thousands of fans attending the event. The legendary car, an innovative racer that was the creation of Ford’s then newly-formed Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), will be just a part of a significant Ford presence at the annual vintage event.

Also on hand during the weekend will be several Ford GTs, which will give hot laps on the legendary 4.048-mile Road America course. Fans can enter to win a Ford GT hot lap, which will be given away every hour, or laps can be purchased by making a $50 charitable donation to the Wisconsin Multiple Sclerosis Society or to the Vince Lombardi Titletown Champions foundation, which is raising money for youth sports programs.

The final component to the Ford Mustang celebration is on-track. Four Shelby Cobras will enter the Historic Grand Prix, and the Shelby drivers will wear vintage late 1960’s racing attire. These Shelby entries mark the first time Shelby Automobiles has joined forces with Ford to race since 1968.

[Source : Ford]
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McLaren's Lewis Hamilton won a thrilling German Grand Prix in Hockenheim on Sunday to forge four points clear of Ferrari's Felipe Massa at the top of the Formula One championship.



Brazilian rookie Nelson Piquet, who had started in 17th place on a one-stop strategy, finished an astonishing second for Renault after leading for six laps in the race of his life. Compatriot Massa was third.

Hamilton led from pole position at engine partners' Mercedes home track but the 23-year-old had to make an inspired fightback from fifth place with 16 laps remaining after a safety car interlude shook up his strategy.

"I didn't plan on doing that. I'd have much preferred an easy, comfortable afternoon out front," he said.

"Overall it was a very, very good weekend. It's got to be the best weekend up to now," added Hamilton. "I think that we're really on top of our game right now."

The victory was his second in a row, and eighth of his career, after a dominant performance in the wet at the previous British Grand Prix two weeks ago and made him the first driver to win four times this season.

Hamilton now has 58 points to Massa's 54. Ferrari's world champion Kimi Raikkonen, who started and finished sixth on Sunday, has 51.

MORE DIFFICULT

"Sorry that we made it a little bit more difficult for you," McLaren boss Ron Dennis told Hamilton on the radio after the Briton took the chequered flag in the Hockenheim sunshine.

"I wanted to give you the opportunity fo driving a great racing car."

The safety car was deployed on lap 36 after the Toyota of Germany's Timo Glock suffered a dramatic high-speed suspension failure and slammed into the concrete wall backwards at the entrance to the straight.

The driver was helped groggily from the wrecked car, with debris scattered across the track, and taken to the medical centre.

With the exception of Hamilton, the leaders all came in to refuel and change tyres when the pit lane opened.

When the McLaren driver then came in nine laps later, he found himself behind team mate Heikki Kovalainen, Massa, Piquet and Germany's Nick Heidfeld.

Heidfeld came in three laps later, leaving Piquet as the frontrunner, while Hamilton slipped past Kovalainen when the Finn obligingly ran wide.

Hamilton then barged his way past Massa 10 laps from the end and took Piquet with similar determination to hand Mercedes their first win at Hockenheim since double world champion Mika Hakkinen in 1998.

Piquet, who has been completely eclipsed this season by double world champion team mate Fernando Alonso, answered his critics with a fine drive under pressure.

Massa's appearance on the podium with him made it the first time two Brazilian drivers had stood in that position since Piquet's father and namesake joined the late Ayrton Senna in the top three in 1991.

Heidfeld was fourth for BMW-Sauber, ahead of Kovalainen and Raikkonen. Poland's Robert Kubica was seventh for BMW-Sauber with German Sebastian Vettel taking the final point for Toro Rosso.

2008 F1 German GP result :

Driver Standings


Construction Standings


[Source : Super Wheels]
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.CHICAGO, Jul 19, 2008 - Car maker Ford Motor Co. is drawing up plans to retool American plants to make small, fuel-efficient passenger cars that it mainly makes and sells in Europe, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday.

The paper said Ford has looked at bringing over European models, including the mid-size Mondeo, in response to high fuel costs that have hit sales of larger, fuel-hungry trucks and sport utility vehicles.

Citing people familiar with the matter, the WSJ said portions of this move could be announced on Thursday when the Dearborn, Michigan-based company reports second-quarter results.

In June, Ford announced it would slash output this year by eliminating shifts, slowing assembly lines and idling truck plants. The car maker said further details on its revised restructuring plan would be provided when it released its second-quarter results.

In an e-mail response to a request for comment on the WSJ report, Ford spokesman Mark Truby said the company would not release details of its plans before Thursday.

"We won't comment on speculation on what we may or may not announce in advance," he said.

[Source : Reuters] continue reading »

July 18th, 2008, Kosh Agash - Oelgy 221 km. Evening summary
Half time at the Transsyberia Rally 2008: The teams have entered Mongolia

After a crisp night in the Altai Mountains and more than 5000 km on and off the Russian roads in seven days, the teams of the Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson have left Russia. The pilots crossed the border at Taschanta not far from the Russian village Kosh Agash. Translated this means “Good bye tree” and points out to travelers that they won’t be seeing any trees in the Mongolian Steppe from now on.



After last year’s experiences, the border crossing procedures on the Russian, as well as on the Mongolian went smoothly. Almost 70 vehicles had to be processed, an operation which took the entire day. The drivers had to wait in the back of the line for hours in midsummer temperatures.

The first entry in the road book on Mongolian terrain read: “End of the asphalt”. And they won’t find any of it in Mongolia until shortly before they reach Ulaanbaatar. After the entry, the 80 km route led up to an altitude of 2000 meters, through sparse steppe and across jagged, stony slopes to today’s stage destination, a camp above the town of Oelgy.

Starting Sunday, the teams have to prove the terrain capability of their cars, their own driving skills, as well as their endurance on the long off-road stretches and their navigation knowledge during the remaining six stages.

For tomorrow a day of rest is scheduled. “You definitely need a day of rest during a two week rally. Especially for the smaller teams and cars, as well as the younger drivers that day it’s a must. It’s however also really nice for us old hands”, said Said Rashid Al Hajri, pilot of Team Middle East, the current leaders in the overall standings. Together with his navigator Tim Trenker, the 51-year old pilot from Qatar is reckoning with good chances for successfully reaching the destination. “We wanted to drive very well in Russia, and we succeeded. Now it’s time for the second part of the plan, which is, to reach Ulaanbaatar as one of the first few. The Top 5 will all go full throttle, I’m sure. However the rally’s still long, very long”, Al Hajri reasoned. From years of rally experience he knows that a lot can still happen in the second part of a rally.

At half time, Team Middle East is still in the lead in the overall standings, followed by Team France, Team Portugal, Team Germany 3 and Team Germany 1.

July 17th, 2008
7th Stage Crossing Border







July 17th, 2008
7th Stage Novosibirsk-Kosh Agash 890 km







Copyright © Transsyberia Rally 2008 powered by Sony Ericsson/REBEL Media.

[Source : Transsyberia Rally]
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Volkswagen AG, Europe's biggest carmaker, may bring a subcompact car similar to its Polo to the U.S. as record gasoline prices spur sales of fuel-efficient vehicles.



Construction of an engine plant in North America, probably in Mexico, also is under study, Stefan Jacoby, chief executive officer of Volkswagen Group of America Inc., said yesterday in an interview.

Adding a new small car in the U.S. would help Volkswagen tap demand for compact models exemplified by a 31 percent jump in 2008's first six months, when the rest of the market shrank 10 percent. The Polo, sold chiefly in Europe, is similar in size to Toyota Motor Corp.'s Yaris or Honda Motor Co.'s Fit.

``We are considering bringing these cars here,'' said Jacoby, 50. ``It's too early to give a timeline for when.''

Volkswagen, based in Wolfsburg, Germany, didn't immediately provide fuel-economy figures for the Polo. A U.S. version probably would come after a future redesign of the current model, spokesman Steve Keyes said after the Jacoby interview.

The Yaris is rated at 32 miles (51 kilometers) per gallon in combined city-highway driving, while the Fit is listed at 31 mpg, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's fuel-economy Web site. Gasoline reached a high of $4.11 a gallon on July 15, according to motoring group AAA.

Jacoby said a successor to the Jetta will reach the U.S. in 2010, to be followed by a new mid-sized sedan in 2011 that will be built at the Chattanooga, Tennessee, factory Volkswagen announced this week. That car will succeed the Passat and will have a new name, he said.

2018 Goal

Volkswagen is working toward a goal of 800,000 U.S. sales of its namesake brand by 2018, more than triple 2007's total of 230,571. Sales in the region rose 0.6 percent this year through June, according to industry-analysis firm Autodata Corp. in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

A new engine plant in Mexico would be Volkswagen's third in North America after Chattanooga and a Puebla, Mexico, factory that makes the Jetta and New Beetle.

``We have not made up our mind, but we will make a decision soon,'' Jacoby said of a new facility in Mexico. Volkswagen is considering such a plant to make its next-generation, low- pollution engines, he said.

The Tennessee factory will cost almost $1 billion and employ 2,000 people when it opens in 2011. It is Volkswagen's first in North America since closing its Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, plant in 1988. Volkswagen may also need local suppliers for fuel-saving dual-clutch transmissions that will become available on more of its U.S. vehicles, Jacoby said.

More Consistency

Jacoby said the Tennessee plant will help Volkswagen become more consistent in the U.S., where its best sales year was 569,182 vehicles in 1970. Production delays and poor quality sent that figure tumbling to 49,553 in 1993, threatening Volkswagen's existence in the world's largest auto market.

``Their execution has been very inconsistent,'' said John Casesa, an automotive-industry consultant with Casesa Shapiro Advisors in New York. ``But the brand continues to have very strong appeal.''

Volkswagen hasn't made a profit in North America since 2002, the last year the euro was valued at par or below the dollar. A strong euro makes it more expensive to build cars in Germany and sell them in the U.S. The euro reached a record July 14 at $1.6038.

All future high-volume vehicles for sale in North America will be made there to avoid foreign-exchange shifts, Jacoby said.

With the help of U.S.-based manufacturing, Volkswagen will try to lower prices to compete with Toyota, Honda and General Motors Corp., Jacoby said.

[Source : Bloomberg]

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Volkswagen AG is proceeding nicely on its to-do list for a new factory here, but one crucial item remains: powertrains.

VW has not decided where it will produce transmissions for the 150,000 vehicles it plans to build annually in Chattanooga by early 2011, says spokesman Jill Bratina.



The engine situation is clearer, but questions remain. Engines for the Passat-like sedan will come from VW's factory in Puebla, Mexico, Stefan Jacoby, CEO of Volkswagen of America

Needed: diesels and hybrids

Last year, the Puebla factory turned out 340,000 engines, well below its annual capacity of 500,000.

But those were all gasoline engines: 2.0-liter four-cylinders and 2.5-liter five-cylinders. Jacoby said the vehicles produced in Chattanooga will be offered in gasoline, hybrid and diesel versions.

"We are one of the technology leaders worldwide with diesel technology, and we are very convinced that diesel will have a future here in the United States," Jacoby said.

So where will VW get the additional engines, not to mention transmissions? Importing from Europe is one option, but that would erode the currency advantage that VW hopes to gain by building a U.S. factory.

The euro has been gaining steadily on the U.S. dollar in the past couple of years, making goods produced in Europe more expensive in the United States. A year ago, $1 was worth 0.79 euros. Late last week, $1 was worth 0.63 euros.

As it stands now, VW doesn't produce any transmissions in North America, said Thomas Karig, vice president of corporate relations and strategy for Volkswagen de Mexico.

New transmission plant?

Karig said most transmissions used in VW's Mexico operations come from Germany. That's especially true of the automatic gearboxes used mainly in vehicles bound for the United States, he said.

"Actually, we are looking into the alternatives available to source engines and transmissions for both North American plants, which include the possibility of a new location somewhere, sometime in Mexico," Karig said. He noted that no decision has been made.

In February, VW group CEO Martin Winterkorn confirmed that Volkswagen would spend about $1 billion in its Mexican operations over the next three years for Jetta production and "capacity optimization" at the Puebla factory.

VW could be waiting on Audi to decide whether it will build vehicles in North America before deciding on powertrains. Audi has said it will decide by next spring, with joint production at the Chattanooga plant as an option.

[Source : Automotive News .. Sub req.]
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WEST RICHLAND, WA - Shelby SuperCars Inc. (SSC) announced that after remaining a privately held company since its inception, SSC is officially launching an invitation-based, private offering.



SSC Founder, Jerod Shelby: "SSC has achieved several milestones in the past several months, including the finalization of design plans for our first 5,700 square foot showroom in Dubai, (United Arab Emirates)."

With international partners and sponsors the American Supercar manufacturer securely captured and returned to the United States the coveted title of "World's Fastest Production Car" in September of 2007. Guinness Book of World Records was present to observe and issued their certificate of validation on the unprecedented accomplishment.

Much of the private capital will be dedicated to achieve the next historical milestone: A prototype of the World's Fastest GREEN Supercar. "I think we can do it faster, leaner and cleaner than any other manufacturer," says Shelby.

Select invitees include celebrities and notable financiers from around the world including Dubai, Moscow and Singapore. The company is currently fielding an onslaught of world media attention including political candidates anxious to align themselves with the all-American auto maker.

SSC's investment banking group heading the initiative, Sheffield International Finance Corporation, will undertake a range of activities in collaboration with SSC, including the implementation and oversight of the Company's first acceptance of outside capital. SSC will capitalize on Sheffield International's exposure to key relationships establishing exclusive showrooms in key cities around the globe with access to the super luxury marketplace.

With heightened secrecy over Green engineering innovations, the next milestone slated for SSC will be plans to unveil the first green power plant in its Ultimate Aero as early as 1st quarter 2009, with four production models to be rolled out by December 2009.

Sheffield International's CEO, Philippe Harari remarked, "We are honored to work alongside this American Pioneer at the pinnacle of its industry. SSC embodies American engineering and integrity at its best. The SSC Story is a proud example of what America can accomplish with determination and private capital".

[Source : Shelby SuperCars]
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MILTON KEYNES – July 18, 2008 : The New-Generation A-Class is now on sale and is safer, more economical and even greener than before. To date over 125,000 A-Class have been sold in the UK since it first launched in 1997 making it one of the best selling models in the range. The design has been revised and new technical developments have further enhanced levels of safety with crash responsive lighting and adaptive brake lights. The car is even more comfortable as a result of new interior materials, with improved adjustment and support in the seats. All models have new infotainment systems with Bluetooth connectivity, and the engines are now more fuel efficient as a result of three new BlueEFFICIENCY models.



From March 2009 an ECO start-stop function will be available on the A 150 and A 170 with manual transmission and the three-door A 160 CDI will benefit from an optional BlueEFFICIENCY package which improves fuel consumption of the Coupé by more than 11 per cent, to 64.2 mpg. Independent experts have awarded the A-Class with the internationally valid environmental certificate already held by the C-Class and S-Class.

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is now more youthful and self-confident than before. The sweeping lines of the newly designed headlamps harmoniously combine the front end and flanks, while the redesigned front bumper reinforces this impression; its lower air intake is now much larger, emphasising the width of the body. The radiator grille is also new in design which underlines the progressive aura of the A-Class.

Three trim lines for customers to choose from
Design features at the front end show the distinctions between the design and equipment lines of the A-Class. The louvres in the radiator grille of the entry level version are painted in dark-grey. In the ELEGANCE SE AND AVANTGARDE SE models they are metallic atlas grey and high-sheen iridium silver, respectively. These two models also have stainless steel tailpipe, fog lamps with chrome trim, projection beam headlamps, a chrome tailgate handle and body coloured side skirts. All three trim lines can be identified by their individual wheel designs and interior trim.

All models now feature larger exterior mirror housings and the door handles are now painted in the vehicle colour for all model variants.

Interior: upgraded with larger stowage compartments and new fabrics
The ELEGANCE SE and AVANTGARDE SE lines have seats which are upholstered in an attractive combination of ARTICO man-made leather and fabric and available in three colours. In addition new decorative trim of smoke-grey, diagonally brushed aluminium enhances the interior of the AVANTGARDE SE line, while wood trim adds to the look and feel of the ELEGANCE SE.

BlueEFFICIENCY
Fuel economy: the A 160 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY achieves 64.2 mpg
With fuel consumption figures between 42.8 and 64.2 mpg, the new-generation A-Class is extremely economical to run. Thanks to the introduction of an optional BlueEFFICIENCY package for the three-door A 160 CDI, the fuel consumption of the state-of-the-art direct-injection diesel engines has been improved by more than 11 per cent or 6.6 mpg compared to the previous model. Available from autumn 2008, the package features measures to further improve engine efficiency, aerodynamics, rolling resistance, energy management and weight. It also features a diesel particulate filter. The sum of these measures means that the A 160 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY has an impressive fuel consumption of 64.2 mpg and as a result the CO2 emissions of the 82 hp Coupé are 116 g/km.

ECO start-stop
The ECO start-stop function lowers fuel consumption and exhaust emissions by automatically switching off the engine during idling phases. ECO start-stop will be available from spring 2009 for the A 150 and A 170 when twinned with the five-speed manual transmission and will both be badged BlueEFFICIENCY. When travelling at low speed, the driver only needs to shift the manual transmission to neutral and apply the brakes. The engine is then switched off, and the ECO display appears in the instrument cluster.

The A 150 BlueEFFICIENCY (95 hp) achieves 48.7 mpg, resulting in 139 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre. In city traffic, the new ECO start-stop function can result in fuel savings of up to nine per cent.

Ecology: the A-Class is the first compact car with an environmental certificate
The environmental compatibility of vehicles is not only assessed on the basis of standardised emissions and fuel consumption measurement, but takes into account the entire vehicle lifecycle of the vehicle. An environmental audit which analyses over 40,000 processes is the basis of the environmental certificate according to the stringent international ISO standard 14062 (Design for Environment).

Mercedes-Benz is the world’s only automobile brand to have received this accolade. The assessment reveals that CO2 emissions are around seven per cent lower than the figure for the preceding model of 2004, and nitrogen oxide emissions have been reduced by 13 per cent.

Carbon dioxide emissions over the entire lifecycle of the A 150 BlueEfficiency with ECO start-stop are reduced by a further five per cent, which means that the environmental audit shows a remarkable reduction in CO2 emissions by more than 12 per cent compared to the preceding model.

The recycling concept of a vehicle is also considered. 95% of the A-Class can be recycled so already meets the EU regulation coming into force from 2015 and renewable raw materials are used during production including the use of flax, olive stones, cotton, coconut fibre, wood veneers and abaca fibres.

Safety: flashing brake lights warn following traffic
The adaptive brake light technology is a standard feature. Under emergency braking from a speed exceeding 30 mph, the brake lights flash rapidly to warn following traffic, enabling drivers to respond quicker and prevent a collision. Mercedes engineers found that the braking responses of drivers are on average 0.2 seconds faster in emergency braking situations if a flashing red warning is given in place of conventional brake lights.

The A-Class continues to set standards in this market segment where occupant protection is concerned and now adds to its already extensive safety technology with crash-responsive emergency lighting for the interior. This is switched on automatically following an accident of a defined severity, providing the occupants with better orientation and helping the emergency services.

Active Park Assist: ultrasound and electric steering for easier parking
Drivers of the A-Class can now opt for active park assist. This system which operates up to 25 mph scans the road to identify suitable parking spaces for the car. Once a suitable space is found the driver has the option to park. By engaging reverse they accept the identified space and then just need to accelerate and brake. Active park assist takes over the steering and automatically manoeuvres the car into the parking space. The parking space only needs to be 1.30 metres longer than the A-Class, there is currently no other car able to park automatically in such a small space.

The car also has Hill Start Assist, which prevents it from rolling backwards when the driver moves from the brake pedal to the accelerator when moving off on an uphill gradient.

Audio: new units offer Bluetooth, a colour display and Europe-wide navigation
Like all the new 2008 Mercedes models, the A-Class is available with new information, communication, navigation and entertainment systems in the form of Audio 20, Audio 50 and COMAND. Audio 20 incorporate a radio with twin tuner, colour display, a Bluetooth interface for a mobile phone, a telephone keypad, a CD-player, automatic volume adjustment and a connection for external audio units in the glove compartment. Audio 50 is also equipped with a Europe-wide DVD navigation system and a DVD drive, while the top-of-the-range COMAND features HDD navigation, a music register, a slot for SD memory cards and voice control. The LINGUATRONIC system operates the telephone, audio and navigation system by convenient whole-word commands so the driver can simply say what they want.

Interface: the "iPod" can be operated via the keys on the steering wheel
A-Class drivers can also benefit from the new optional media interface, which enables the driver to connect an MP3-player, USB stick or other external audio. The media interface enables the driver to charge the device, control the device through the infotainment system via keys on the multifunction steering wheel and see the titles of music tracks in the instrument cluster and on the colour display in the centre console. Connection of an iPod or similar requires a suitable cable which is available from the Mercedes-Benz accessories range.

Images gallery : 2009 Mercedes Benz A-Class & A-Class Coupe
















[Source : Mercedes Benz]
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PARIS – July 18, 2008 : In keeping with its ongoing commitment in favour of the environment, Renault is to introduce a new petrol-engined Twingo with CO2 emissions of just 120g/km, equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.1 litres/100km. The new car is a variant of the 1.2 16V 75 eco² with CO2 emissions cut by 15g/km (11 per cent) thanks to engine calibration work and longer gear ratios. The 120g/km version joins the Twingo catalogue alongside the range's existing engines. It comes at no extra price to customers. It will be known in France as Twingo 1.2 LEV 16V 75 eco2 (Low Emission Vehicle). Prices will start from €9,950 and the new version will be eligible for the state's eco bonus of €700. Order books are due to open on July 21. The car will also be marketed in Spain, Germany, Holland and Belgium, beginning in September.

A variant of Twingo 1.2 16V 75hp with CO2 emissions of just 120g/km

With a CO2 emissions rating of 120g/km, Twingo 1.2 LEV 16V 75 eco² emits 15g/km less than the existing 1.2 16V 75 eco². This 11 per cent saving makes it eligible for the environmental tax incentives that have been introduced in several countries. In France, it qualifies alongside the dCi 65 eco² version (113g/km) for the €700 eco bonus, which makes Twingo one of the most ecological models of its segment. The lower emissions rating has been achieved by lengthening the gear ratios (20 per cent) which has resulted in a reduction in the engine revs required for a given road speed, and consequently lower fuel consumption. Just 5.1 litres of fuel are now required for Twingo 1.2 16V 75hp 120g/km eco² to cover 100km, making it the thriftiest 1.2 petrol engined car on the market. Its power output (75hp) and torque (107Nm) are unchanged.

No extra cost for the customer
Thanks to this technical solution, no price increase compared with the existing Twingo 1.2 16V 75 eco² has been passed on to the customer. The two cars will be marketed alongside each other at the same price for the Authentique, Expression and Dynamique equipment levels (starting from €9,950 in France). All Twingo engines qualify for Renault's eco² signature, including two that claim CO2 emissions of less than 120g/km. The eco² signature is the hallmark of Renault's commitment in favour of the environment by offering customers vehicles that are both ecological and affordable to buy and run. Within the framework of its Renault Commitment plan, the brand has pledged to sell one million vehicles in 2008 that emit less than 140g of CO2/km, including one third that emit less than 120g/km.

[Source : Auto Channel]

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• A new Nissan half-ton Pickup NP200 and Renault Sandero are to be produced at Nissan’s Rosslyn plant (Pretoria). Production of the new Nissan half-ton Pickup NP200 has already started in the plant. The production of Renault Sandero will start in 2009.
• This project marks the first time that a Renault vehicle will be produced in South Africa.
• Some 300 jobs will be created in the plant in 2008.

PARIS/ TOKYO/ JOHANNESBURG (July 18, 2008) - The Renault-Nissan Alliance has confirmed the launch of a new manufacturing project in South Africa. Nissan’s manufacturing plant at Rosslyn was identified as having the potential to maximize synergies between Renault and Nissan.



With this manufacturing project, the two groups are reaffirming their commitment to South Africa. Renault and Nissan are to invest 1 billion rand (80 million euros) in the project to adapt two cars to the South African market (e.g. right-hand drive), prepare the plant, and develop the local components and accessories supply chain. Current production output at the plant is 40,000 units per year. This will increase to 68,000 units in 2009 as a result of the investment. The local integration rate will be 25% at the start of production and gradually increase afterwards. Production will initially be sold in the local market.

Production of the new Nissan half-ton Pickup NP200 follows the end of 1400 Bakkie production. “Nissan has built up a formidable reputation in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment of the market and the retirement of the legendary 1400 Bakkie should not be viewed as the end but rather the beginning of an era,” emphasized Nissan South Africa Managing Director Mike Whitfield, who said that Nissan South Africa was dedicated to sustaining its reputation in the sector.

Xavier Gobille, Managing Director of Renault South Africa explains: “Sandero will represent affordable motoring, produced to meet the needs of the South African market and will be the first Renault product manufactured in South Africa”. Renault Sandero will contribute significantly to Renault’s growth in South Africa. In the coming years, Renault will expand the product line-up offered to South African customers with vehicles ranging from entry-level to upper range. Among them will be New Twingo, a lively little car, connected and practical, and Koleos, Renault’s first crossover, set for launch in South Africa in 2008.

[Source : Nissan]

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MEXICO CITY - Bristling with design flair, the all-new Mastretta MXT is the exciting and exclusive new sports car that will put Mexico on the map and offer UK drivers performance and more choice in the sub £40,000 sector.



The lightweight two-seater weighs