Aston Martin DBS Carbon Black Special Edition Tours U.S.  
IRVINE, California — Aston Martin's DBS Carbon Black Special Edition this week kicks off a tour of seven major U.S. cities that is co-sponsored by high-end audio company Bang & Olufsen. The first customer deliveries are slated to begin this summer.

Over the next month, a pair of DBS Carbon Black Special Edition cars will tour Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Washington, San Francisco, Dallas and Miami.

As the name implies, the car features bespoke Carbon Black metallic paint, with a cockpit trimmed in Obsidian Black leather with silver hand-stitching and piano black accents. A Bang & Olufsen Beosound DBS audio system, with 13 speakers and more than 1,000 watts of power, is standard.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

Hyundai and Subaru Mark Significant Growth in Brand Equity and Sales. Coincidence?  
NEW YORK -: Market research firm Harris Interactive has released the 2010 results of EquiTrend®, its renowned annual brand equity study that measures over 1,000 brands across 42 categories. Included in the study is a focus on automotive manufacturers, reviewing consumers’ opinions of 35 brands.

“We will be closely monitoring levels of consumer trust in automotive brands, especially as it relates to perceptions of personal safety and product quality. The recent crisis highlights just how quickly a foundation of trust can be shattered.”

In a year of turmoil for the automotive industry Hyundai and Subaru stand out as leaders in consistently building consumer brand equity over the past several years. These same brands have posted year over year sales increases while the industry has suffered double digit sales declines. “Our EquiTrend data suggests that in a severe downturn such as one experienced in the auto industry, brands with solid equity growth are resilient and can indeed succeed,” stated Carol Gstalder, Senior Vice President, Business and Industrial at Harris Interactive.

Automotive brands receiving bailout money after the onset of the recession in 2008, including GM and Chrysler, took immediate hits to their brand equity in the 2009 study. GM’s efforts to rebuild are beginning to pay off, as their equity is now consistent with their 2008 level, yet far below its 2005 position. It looks as if Ford is being rewarded for not taking bailout money, reaching number three this year and at its highest score since 2005.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Volkswagen: Happy 60th Birthday To The World's Most Popular Van  
MILTON KEYNES, UNITED KINGDOM: Production of the Volkswagen Transporter van officially started in March 1950 and during the 60 years since then it has become one of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ best-selling models globally, the number one imported van in the UK as well as one of the most iconic and popular vans in the world.

With over 10 million produced, the Volkswagen Transporter has evolved through five generations of functional and practical bodystyles, each representing the ultimate multi-purpose vehicle of its time and loved by business and private users alike for transporting goods or people for work or leisure. This unique heritage is the focus of the current ‘Evolution of Van’ advertising campaign for the new Transporter which was launched in the UK in January.

The first T1 ‘split-screen’ model was powered by a four-cylinder, air-cooled, 1.1-litre petrol engine mounted at the back of the vehicle. It produced 25 PS of power and had a top speed of about 60 mph. By comparison, the new Transporter enjoys the refinement of Volkswagen’s latest 2.0-litre, common rail, turbocharged diesel engine, available with power outputs ranging from 84 PS to 180 PS and a top speed of up to 119 mph, plus the latest stability control systems and braking technology that would have sounded like something from a science fiction novel 60 years ago.

Although the design has evolved over the years, the first and the latest Transporter share the same badge on the front and the same design principles of a generous loadspace and an enviable reputation for quality and durability.

Similarly, comparing the latest Volkswagen California with a T1 campervan shows that both make efficient use of the space available to create a vehicle equally suitable for daily trips to work or the shops, as for weekend escapes or continental capers.

Over the years, Volkswagen Transporters have endured challenging round the world trips by enthusiastic travellers, been used as the preferred choice of travel for rock bands since the 1960s to the present day, and been relied upon by many businesses needing a fleet of delivery or passenger carrying vehicles.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Limited Edition Fiat 500C Pink Goes Topless For Summer  
SLOUGH, UNITED KINGDOM: When Fiat launched the striking new 500 Pink in January, the big question was: could it ever top that? And the answer is yes – with the convertible 500C Pink.

Even more limited than the hatchback version – just 300 examples will be available in the UK compared with 500 of the hatchbacks – the 500C Pink adds a stylish new twist to the chic supermini.

One of several exciting limited edition Fiat 500 models planned for 2010, the 500C Pink will appeal mainly to people wishing to stand out from the crowd – while enjoying fresh air motoring.

Based on the 1.2 Pop specification, the Fiat 500C Pink features: # Special Pink colour # 16-inch alloy wheels # Chrome trim # Side rubbing strip with 500 badge # Body coloured door mirrors # Leather steering wheel # Leather gear knob # Special carpet mats # Special Pink key cover # Split folding rear seat # Blue&Me infotainment

With an on the road price of £13,500 – the 500C Pink costs just £1,200 more than a regular 1.2 Pop convertible, yet includes £1,870 worth of extra equipment.

“We reacted to customers’ requests earlier this year when we gave them the 500 Pink, and I believe we will find a new group of fans with the 500C version of this limited edition car,” says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland.

“With all the benefits of the convertible roof this summer, coupled with the style and personality of the Pink range, I think it will be one of this year’s must-have car purchases.”

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Introducing the New Mazda6  
NOTTING HILL, AUSTRALIA: Since its Australian release in 2002, Mazda6 has established itself as the best-selling imported medium car in the country. With a strong history of sales success and numerous awards to its name, Mazda6 has received a warm reception from both buyers and critics alike.

The New Mazda6 further evolves the striking design, excellent driving dynamics and competitive value for which the Mazda6 has become known. While the whole range has evolved for even greater sportiness and refinement, customer needs have been closely considered with the introduction of the New Mazda6 Touring Wagon. In addition, design improvements and equipment upgrades will help to ensure that the Mazda6 maintains its position as one of Australia’s most highly regarded nameplates.

New Mazda6 Range # New Mazda6 Touring Wagon featuring leather trim, power adjustable front seats and front and rear parking sensors has been added to the range # The Mazda6 range is available in a choice of hatch, sedan and wagon body styles and is the only medium car in Australia to offer this choice # Power is delivered via a choice of either petrol or diesel: the MZR 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine or the MZR-CD 2.2-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine # Refinements to the MZR-CD 2.2-litre diesel engine yield a better response and a more enjoyable acceleration feel # Exterior design enhancements provide greater sportiness and a clearer premium identity # Upgraded interior design and the addition of new equipment makes for an improved experience for both driver and passengers alike # Refinements to steering and suspension systems further improve the smooth and stable ride that is expected from the Mazda6 # High levels of standard safety equipment across the Mazda6 range reflected in a 5-star ANCAP rating. Safety features standard across the range include six SRS airbags, ABS and DSC. # Hill Launch Assist function has been added to all manual models to ensure smooth hill starts and increased safety

Mazda6 Global # First introduced in 2002 # Sold in approximately 80 countries # Global sales of Mazda6 have exceeded 1.8 million units (as at January 2010) # Mazda6 has so far received over 160 awards from key markets including Australia, USA, Canada, China, Japan and Germany

Mazda6 in Australia # Mazda6 was launched in Australia in August 2002 # Second-generation Mazda6 launched in February 2008 # Australian sales of Mazda6 to date are in excess of 85,000 units (as at February 2010)

Marketing # More than any other Mazda vehicle, the Mazda6 appeals to a wide audience # The Mazda6 appeals to a mix of males and females who are of a fairly broad age group. They are likely to be either young or ‘young at heart’ # This wide audience presents a challenge in how to target specific communications so for new Mazda6 the main target audience is 28 – 34 year olds, more skewed towards white-collar males while still appealing to older and female buyers # The attitude of the Mazda6 buyer is all-important: “Vanilla is not an option.” These people don’t just want to blend in. They want their new car to stand out or stand for something. And if it doesn’t, they’ll just move on to something that satisfies their high standards # Buyers in this segment may be upsizing from a smaller car like a Mazda3 or downsizing from a larger car # Sporty design and responsive handling is at the core of what attracts buyers to the Mazda6 # Interests among the Mazda6 audience include eating out, playing and watching sport and travel

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Manufacturing opens year on high note  
OTTAWA -- For the fifth straight month manufacturing sales rose in Canada -- this time by 2.4 percent to kick off 2010.

Sales gains (to $44.6 billion) were broadly based in January, reports Stats Canada, with 17 of 21 industries reporting increases compared to December.

Some of the larger gains included advances in primary metals (up 8.5%), which have steadily increased since July of last year; as well as petroleum and coal products (plus 3.4%).

The transportation equipment industry was one of only four industries to report weaker sales in January. It was down by 3.4 percent, giving back a small portion of the 29 percent boost from previous months. British Columbia, Quebec and Ontario led all provinces in January. B.C. has posted increases every month since August 2009 except for December thanks to gains in primary metals and wood product industries.

Sales in the Atlantic provinces were up overall by 3.2 percent with improvements in New Brunswick (+6.8%) and Nova Scotia (+5.5%) partially offset by decreased sales in Newfoundland and PEI.

Inventory levels remained unchanged in January. Manufacturers had shed $8.8 billion or 12.8% of their inventories between October 2008 and September 2009, before leveling off in recent months, says Statscan.

Source : http://www.todaystrucking.com (3/16/2010)

GHG cut requires 'total' transport effort: Conf Board  
OTTAWA -- Despite impressive improvements in fuel and engine efficiency over the years, truck-generated emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) are still an important area for policy attention, according to a Conference Board of Canada report.

While there have been numerous methods for reducing the environmental impact of freight transportation – alternative fuels, new engine technologies, a carbon tax, a cap-and-trade policy – discussions on implementation have been lacking, according to the report.

“While these discussions are important, they have not, however, focused as much attention on how to bring any of these approaches online, or on the system-wide implications in doing so," said Stephen Blank, author of Freight Trucks and Climate Change Policy: Mitigating CO2 Emissions.

Blank is the Ross Distinguished Visiting Professor of Canada-U.S. Business and Economic Relations at Western Washington University, and a Senior Fellow of the Centre for International Governance and Innovation (CIGI).

The report is published by the Conference Board of Canada's International Trade and Investment Centre. The centre is intended to help Canadian leaders better understand what global economic dynamics (such as global and regional supply chains, domestic barriers to trade, U.S. policies, or tighter border security) could mean for public policies and business strategies.

"Nor has there been much discussion about building a strategy, either historically or at the present time, that would attract sufficient stakeholder and political support to get any of these measures through the policy-making process,” added Blank. “We still do not think in terms of a 'North American solution.'"

To address these gaps in a North America-wide strategy, the report recommends some solutions:

- Look at the freight truck transport system as a whole, rather than at individual modes. Mitigating freight transport-generated emissions involves complex networks, and changes in one point of the network will affect the rest of it. - Pay more attention to what others, particularly in Europe, are doing, and learn from their experiences. - Develop an institution or process that can support North American collaboration on reducing GHG emissions from trucks. Environmental problems associated with freight truck transportation must be viewed in continental terms, not as three separate national issues.

Source : http://www.todaystrucking.com (3/16/2010)

Best and deadliest U.S. roads ranked  
NEW YORK -- America's "Best Roads" tend to be situated more in central U.S.-Midwest regions, according to a Reader's Digest survey, while some of the worst are in the southeast corner of the country.

The magazine rates Kansas, Wisconsin, Montana, New Mexico and Utah with having the "Best Roads" in the U.S., while Montana, South Carolina, West Virginia, Arkansas and Louisiana, had the "Deadliest Roads."

The publication ranked all 50 states and determined the safest, most scenic and sensible roads, along with the most dangerous.

Other states that ranked near the top included North Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska, Virginia and Oregon. Meanwhile, other states with deadly roads were Mississippi, Kentucky, Wyoming, Alabama and Nevada.

"Although Montana appears at No. 3 on the Best Roads list (good infrastructure, little congestion), it tops the Deadliest list in part because of drivers who drink, drive recklessly, or shun seat belts," states the magazine.

Among the "Worst Roads" are Louisiana roads in general, but Interstate 55 and I-12 east of Baton Rouge are particularly dangerous.

It probably doesn't help that many roads in the state spent weeks underwater a few years ago.

Other bad roads include the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-78 and I-80), I-95 over the George Washington Bridge in New Jersey/New York and the Will Rogers Turnpike (I-44) in Oklahoma.

Some organizations take such rankings pretty seriously. A research group called the Pacific Institute for Research And Evaluation (PIRE), says that statistically, bad roads are more dangerous than drunk drivers.

Deficient roadway conditions "are a substantially more lethal factor than drunk driving, speeding or non-use of safety belts," stated a recent study.

Source : http://www.todaystrucking.com (3/16/2010)

NB announces Climate Action Fund projects  
SAINT JOHN -- Sixteen projects to reduce greenhouse gas, some of which include trucking companies, have been approved by New Brunswick's Department of Environmentthrough the province's Climate Action Fund (NBCAF).

The $3.5 million program supports energy efficiency projects in the industrial sector that will increase energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions by 155,385 tones annually.

"This support from Efficiency NB will help industry move quickly to implement large energy efficiency projects," said Energy Minister Jack Keir. "These projects help companies become more competitive. It's a winning scenario for New Brunswick, stimulating economic activity, creating green jobs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions."

New Brunswick companies receiving funding include J.D. Irving, which owns several trucking fleets and paper mills, and McCain Foods which operates Day & Ross; as well as the AV Group, Fraser Papers, Groupe Savoie, and Marwood Ltd.

"New Brunswickers are very fortunate to have the leadership of Efficiency New Brunswick in reducing the province's environmental footprint and energy consumption," said Jim Irving in a press release.

Source : http://www.todaystrucking.com (3/16/2010)

Drug detection training lacking at border  
WINDSOR, Ont. -- A trucker was convicted recently for smuggling cocaine across the border, despite some confusion in the way Canada Border Services Agency officers kept track of the seized items.

According to a local news story, while convicting Balwinder Singh Sangha, 40, of importing cocaine and possessing the drug for the purpose of trafficking, Justice Richard Gates says border guards in Windsor lack the experience and training to keep drugs out of the country.

"It is a far cry from rummaging around the trunk of a passenger car searching for an illicit bottle of liquor or carton of cigarettes to the forensic examination of a large tractor-trailer, such as the one at hand, in the search for drugs," said Justice Richard Gates.

"While I do not in any way doubt the sincerity and dedication of the border service personnel, from a criminal investigative perspective, their experience and training are lacking."

Sangha was caught by border guards trying to smuggle 22.5 kilograms of cocaine across the Ambassador Bridge in 2007. The officers did not keep track of who seized what items from the truck and who subsequently handled them, and later had difficulty identifying items at trial.

While questioning the training of the officers, the judge did commend the border guards for their devotion to the job. "But what the community at large would greatly benefit from is an enhancement of their training."

A CBSA spokesman told the Windsor Star that since January 2007, border officials in Windsor and Sarnia have intercepted 1.3 tonnes of cocaine.

Source : http://www.todaystrucking.com (3/16/2010)

Rain can't dampen excitement of IndyCar season opener in São Paulo, Brazil  
The 2010 Izod IndyCar Series Championship started off with a bang down in São Paulo, Brazil this weekend, with a first turn pileup and a thunderstorm that turned the race into a timed event instead of the planned 75-lapper. Even though it was cut short, it ended up being a pretty exciting kick-off to the season, the 15th for the series and third since the reunification with the Champ Car World Series. Following Brazil, the teams are headed back to the States for most of the remaining 16 races on the schedule, with two races in Canada and the Indy Japan 300 from Motegi rounding things off.

Besides the addition of Brazil to the schedule, the 2010 season sees a few rules changes – Gone is the drivers' four-position fuel mixture switch, the "push-to-pass" Honda Overtake assist button is back but twice as effective as before giving a boost of 10-40 horsepower when pushed, and all of the cars will now have a reverse gear for road and street courses. Another big change was the signing of Izod as the series title sponsor, putting a few more bucks into the revenue sharing pot.

The driver lineup stayed pretty consistent over the off-season, with a couple of teams dropping out and another group joining the field, a few new drivers coming into the series, some as novices and others making the jump from other series, including Formula 1. While some feel the real season won't start until the teams make it back to American soil at the next race in St. Petersburg, São Paulo made a lot of fans sit up and take notice as IndyCar action was back in all its ethanol-burning, open-wheel glory.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Report: Toyota kicks off industry-wide incentive blitz for March  
When the U.S. auto market crashed in the fall of 2008, automakers bumped up incentives in a big way to clear dealer lots of bloated inventory. But when Cash for Clunkers drained inventory – with industry-wide incentives reaching $3,165 per vehicle – while simultaneously removing nearly 700,000 used vehicles from the market, automakers quickly weened themselves off incentives.

Steering clear of heavy incentives likely wasn't all that difficult for Toyota, as the Japanese automaker has traditionally kept prices near MSRP even in the leanest of times. That changed, though, when Toyota became synonymous with the term "unintended acceleration." Toyota's nightmare public relations scenario came true as the traditionally quality-rich automaker was forced to recall over eight million vehicles. Sales dropped like a stone in the first two months of 2010 while every other automaker outside of Auburn Hills, MI saw substantial gains compared to a rough 2009.

Toyota had to do something to get foot traffic on the showroom floor, so the Japanese automaker took the outrageous step of offering zero-percent financing on its most popular models. Analysts at Edmunds and elsewhere tell us that the early returns from the big discounts are positive, with Toyota sales reportedly up an estimated 47 percent versus March, 2009.

But with Toyota once again rolling, other automakers are looking to turn more sales, and incentives appears to be the best way to do that. Detroit automakers are back on the zero, and even Honda is spending big on incentives. Barclays Capital tells Automotive New that a 60-month, zero-percent loan on a $30,600 vehicle costs an automaker a staggering $4,857. That's a lot of coin, but the early returns of cash on the hood are positive. And Edmunds reports that early March sales are up to 12.5 million on an annualized basis, the highest levels achieved since the Clunkers program.

So it appears as though Toyota started a potentially expensive, drawn-out incentives war. In the short term, customers win regardless of which automaker makes out best with these fresh incentives. Over the long haul, though, automakers need to make a profit so they can make more of the products we love so much.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Rumormill: Is Harley-Davidson the target of a takeover bid?  
We're not sure if this report should be filed in the Good News folder or the Bad. Harley-Davidson shares jumped an impressive six percent today to their highest level in more than four months. Why? Apparently, the increased activity was spurred by speculation of a possible takeover by private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts.

We're anything but experts on the inner workings of Wall Street, but it seems that the hot action is on short-term March and April call options, which indicates that many traders are betting on a leveraged buyout of the historic American motorcycle manufacturer.

Naturally, neither KKR nor Harley-Davidson is commenting on the matter, though neither party has declined the rumors outright. We'll keep our virtual ears to the ground, and if we hear anything more, you'll all be the first to know.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Dumping duty proposed on front axle beam, steering knuckle from China  
The Designated Authority in the Commerce Ministry has recommended imposition of definitive anti-dumping duty on ‘front axle beam and steering knuckle meant for heavy and medium commercial vehicles' from China, following a complaint filed by Bharat Forge Ltd, Pune on behalf of domestic industry.

Front axle beam (FAB) is an axle over which front wheels of the commercial vehicle are mounted and is a safety critical component as it carries the load of the vehicle and also keeps the steering in place.

Steering knuckle is a part, which fits at the end of the front axle beam and is a critical item as it controls the steering of the vehicle. Any breakage or damage of steering knuckles will affect the steering of the vehicle, leading to loss of control that might trigger an accident.

After examining the submissions made by the interested parties and issues raised by them, the Authority said the subject goods from China have been exported to India below their associated normal value. The domestic industry has as a result suffered material injury in both the products under probe, besides posing a threat of a material injury as well.

For FAB, Bharat Forge is the sole producer, while Mahendra Forgings Ltd, Amtek Auto Ltd and Harig Crankshaft also produce the steering knuckles. All the three producers have fully backed the applicant and the production of each of the subject goods by the applicant company along with the backers constitutes more than 50 per cent and a substantial chunk of the domestic production.

After due investigation following consultations with all the stakeholders including user industries who source the imported material from China, the Authority said Chinese manufacturer and exporter Hubei Triring Auto Axle Ltd will have to pay an anti-dumping duty of $0.35 a kg, while all other manufacturer or exporter from China would have to fork out $0.63 a kg on front axle beam for medium or heavy commercial vehicle.

All other exports originating from China but exporting from any other country may have to pay an anti- dumping duty of $0.63 a kg, while any other country than China manufacturing but sourcing its exports through China may have to pay the same amount of definitive anti-dumping duty.

On steering knuckles for medium or heavy commercial vehicles, while Hubei Tri-ring Forging Co Ltd as both manufacturer and exporter might have to pay an anti-dumping duty of $0.64 a kg, any other manufacturer or exporter sourcing the same goods from China will have to shell out $1.11 a kg, the Authority noted.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (3/16/2010)

Issues with Mahindra over Logan yet to be sorted: Ghosn  
CHENNAI: French auto major Renault today said it is yet to sort out the differences with Mahindra & Mahindra over their joint venture that sells Logan, while stressing that the car will continue to ply on the Indian roads.

Mahindra Renault Pvt Ltd, the joint venture in which the French automaker holds 49 per cent, has been struggling to sell Logan with sales declining to just 4,981 units in April- February 2009-10, down 60.03 per cent from the year-ago period.

While M&M wants to tweak the specifications of Logan to make it smaller in order to qualify for excise benefits on small cars, Renault has been against it thereby putting strain on their partnership.

"We are discussing (with M&M) how to reposition the car and how to simplify the organisation and it looks like we need to be more nimble and little fast with the market," Renault Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Carlos Ghosn said.

He said so far the conclusion has not been drawn. "The day we reach a conclusion we will communicate with you...it is too early to talk to you on what decision will be taken."

On the poor sales performance of Logan, Ghosn said: "We are obviously not very satisfied with the evolution of sales of Logan and we have shared it with M&M."

He, however, reiterated that despite the differences with M&M, the Logan will stay in Indian market.

"Consumers will enjoy the product and continue to enjoy the services around the product and this is something we agree without any doubt with our partners. We will continue to work to make Logan competitive," he added.

Source : Economic Times (3/17/2010)

Renault-Nissan eyes 80,000 Micra sales in FY11: Executive  
CHENNAI: The Indian unit of the Renault-Nissan alliance will start selling Micra hatchbacks from July and aims sales of 80,000 units in the financial year ending March 2011, an official said on Tuesday.

"Exports, which will be a major portion of sales, will start in the second half of 2010," Akira Sakurai, chief operating officer of Renault Nissan Automotive India Pvt Ltd, told reporters.

The Micra was unveiled earlier this year at the Geneva auto show.

Source : Economic Times (3/17/2010)

Renault-Nissan, Ashok Leyland in talks for car project  
CHENNAI: The Renault-Nissan alliance is in talks with Indian vehicle maker Ashok Leyland for a passenger car project, Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn said on Tuesday.

Renault-Nissan already have plans to build an ultra low-cost car in India in partnership with two-wheeler maker Bajaj Auto with the launch expected in 2012.

Ghosn also termed news reports about an equity tie-up between Renault and Germany's Daimler as speculative.

Source : Economic Times (3/16/2010)

Nissan Murano: Now Available In Diesel  
MAPLE CROSS, UNITED KINGDOM –: Since its European introduction in autumn 2008, the second generation Murano has occupied a unique place in the premium Crossover market – combining cutting edge design, a premium on-board ambiance and easy, enjoyable performance.

And Murano’s appeal to customers will be significantly enhanced in September with the addition of a diesel engine to the line-up, further reinforcing Nissan’s Crossover leadership. The introduction of the diesel version comes just as Nissan will introduce the fourth member of its Crossover line-up, the Juke, and soon after the introduction of the revised Qashqai.

An enhanced version of Nissan’s 2.5 dCi four cylinder engine, has been fitted to the Murano, giving a combination of effortless torque, refinement and reduced consumption and emissions, in line with the European market trend. This YD25 engine from Nissan’s range has recently benefitted from comprehensive upgrades in advance of its fitment in Murano.

When fitted to the Murano, the engine produces 190PS and 450Nm of torque, with a torque and power curve which means that the performance is smooth and serene thanks to the torquey nature of the engine, perfectly complementing the Murano’s character.

The changes made to the engine include a new direct injection system which operates at 2000 bar, up from 1800 bar. This increase in pressure means the fuel spray is atomised to an even finer degree resulting in more complete combustion. A new cylinder head with parallel ports increases the swirl efficiency of the combustion process, smoothing the intake and exhaust flow, while a new variable nozzle turbo (VNT) with electric control rather than the previous hydraulic system for quicker responses has also been adopted.

The engine is equipped with a diesel particle filter (DPF), helping Murano to achieve EURO5 emission standards.

Automatic Gearbox The engine is offered as a single powertrain with a six-speed automatic gearbox, providing smooth, discreet gear-shifts to guarantee seamless, effortless progress. With a high degree of lock-up, engine responsiveness is keen and its shift logic has been programmed to make the most of the high-torque engine characteristics, but also to optimise the fuel economy.

Furthermore, the gearbox is equipped with ASC (Adaptive Shift Control), which will modify shift patterns according to the prevailing driving style, tailoring the gearbox to hold on to a lower gear during a descent for added engine braking, for example.

Power is transmitted to the road via Nissan’s advanced ALL MODE 4x4-i technology, which sends power to the rear-wheels when a loss of stability or traction is detected.

Cutting Edge Design One of the key factors in the Murano’s appeal is its design – combining SUV attributes, with more dynamic qualities of a sporty sedan. The lower half of the exterior gives an SUV-like air of solidity and robustness, with pronounced wheelarches and a rippled effect at the bottom of the doors, giving a muscular appearance.

The upper half is more dynamic, thanks to its steeply raked windscreen and rising window line at the rear, which is Nissan’s signature Crossover styling feature.

Scratch Shield Paint Murano is also equipped with Nissan’s innovative Scratch Shield paint.. It is a clearcoat that is more scratch resistant compared with conventional clearcoats, helping a vehicle maintain its new look for a longer period of time. The paint also repairs fine scratches, restoring a vehicle's surface close to its original state. It works thanks to a special, highly elastic resin that has been combined with a conventional clearcoat to increase the paint's flexibility. This has also increased its strength by raising the resin density. When the paint is scratched, over a period of several days the resin will return to its original form, thereby ‘healing’ itself and restoring the appearance of the paint to its original condition.

Business Class Inside, a genuinely luxurious interior delivers a ‘Business Class’ experience. The instruments, seats, subtle ambient mood lighting and high quality materials – including double stitched leather trim and real aluminium touches – lift the interior from sporting SUV to luxury saloon standard.

In keeping with its enhanced sophistication, Murano is laden with features designed to make life on the move even more comfortable.

Among the standard features are the leather interior with aluminium accents in the cabin, satellite navigation with full colour 7 inch screen, Intelligent Key with Stop/Start button and full climate control with mild flow dissipation. The front seats are power operated – the driver’s seat has eight way control including power lumbar support.. The front and rear seats are heated.

Additionally, the tailgate can be opened and closed by remote control, while folding the rear seat back rests is a one-touch operation. The back rests can be raised remotely, too, via switches in the trunk area and on the dashboard.

Side and rear parking cameras But perhaps the cleverest of all the new Murano’s features are the parking cameras. In addition to the now expected rear view camera, new Murano has another camera mounted within the passenger door mirror. The image transmitted to the dashboard screen will show the driver any obstacle otherwise hidden in a blind spot during parking manoeuvres.

Murano also comes with brushed chrome roof rail inserts, powered steering wheel adjustment (rake and reach), and memory function on Intelligent Key which governs the position of the driver's seat, steering wheel and door mirrors.

Bluetooth connectivity The leather-trimmed steering wheel incorporates switches for the audio system, telephone and cruise control. Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity is also standard meaning there are no phone compatibility problems as the technology is incorporated into virtually all recent handsets: there is no requirement for a phone to be inserted into a special dock before it can be used hands-free.

Bose sound Murano’s standard audio is a Bose® sound system that has been especially designed and customised for the acoustics of the cabin.

The result is a premium 11-speaker system with a 10-channel amplifier that helps recreate sound closer to a live performance.

The system is powered by a Bose® amplifier that includes custom equalization and proprietary digital signal processing. A pair of Bose Richbass™ woofers, mounted in the spare wheel well, allow listeners to enjoy music with depth and presence, but without sacrificing space in the passenger cabin.

Nearly all of the system’s 11-speakers use neodymium iron boron magnets in place of the more conventional ferrite magnets found in most speakers. These magnets are smaller and lighter than ferrite magnets but just as powerful. As a result, they help the system deliver a full rich sound while adding less weight to the vehicle. In addition, an innovative design approach, custom equalization and digital signal processing help reproduce music with clarity, spaciousness and realism. The audio system itself incorporates an in-dash six-disc CD player with AM/FM.

Other options The only other options are metallic paint and a DVD-based entertainment system for the rear passengers, with screen incorporated into the roof.

“The introduction of the diesel to our Murano comes at a time when Nissan is reinforcing its leadership as the pioneering Crossover brand in the automotive industry. Murano was, of course, the first Crossover in our range and now that this second generation model has a diesel engine option, its appeal will be even wider on the European market,” said Simon Thomas, Nissan’s European Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing.

He added: “Additionally, deliveries of the newly revised Qashqai have just started and we’re hopeful we can build on its already huge European success – every year since its launch, Qashqai has surpassed our expectations and the factory in Sunderland, UK where it is built will soon go to a third shift to meet demand.”

“And Nissan’s Crossover line up will be complete in the autumn when the Juke, our new small Crossover, will go on sale. It will offer something new and more dynamic than the predictable options in the B-segment.”

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Auto Repair Data Reveals Right to Repair Coalition's Tale to be a Clunker  
BOSTON--The New England Service Station and Automotive Repair Association (NESSARA), the leading organization representing independent auto repairers in Massachusetts, reaffirmed results showing the so-called “Right to Repair” bill, S. 2268, is completely unnecessary.

“Massachusetts auto repair businesses have filed, in all, a total of 16 such requests since 2005, only 9 of which have been filed since January 2009. If the Massachusetts repair industry is only filling approximately 3 requests per year, how big can this supposed information and tooling problem be?”

The Right to Repair Coalition claims that independent repairers cannot service vehicles properly because the necessary diagnostic information is not available. But frankly, that is not true. Even the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), a heavily involved member of the Right to Repair Coalition’s efforts in Massachusetts based in Bethesda, MD, whose more than 23,000 members and affiliates, manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tool, equipment, materials and supplies reported one complaint for every 550 repair shops that the organization represents.

“I just can’t understand how this Right to Repair Coalition can claim that there is this major problem for independent repair businesses in getting repair information when AAIA’s own data doesn’t support their position,” said Roger Montbleau, President, NESSARA.

The National automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) is a not-for-profit, no-dues task force established to facilitate the identification and correction of gaps in the availability and accessibility of automotive service information, service training, diagnostic tools and equipment, and communications for the benefit of automotive service professionals. NASTF is a voluntary, cooperative effort among the automotive service industry, the equipment and tool industry, and automotive manufacturers.

“Since December 2004, in the entire United States there have been a total of 291 information requests filed on the NASTF website www.nastf.org. Of the requests filed, manufacturers responses resulted in 227 solutions, 58 were determined to be invalid, meaning the complaint did not relate to missing information, and the remaining 6 are currently being reviewed” said Matthew LeLacheur, Executive Director, NESSARA. “Massachusetts auto repair businesses have filed, in all, a total of 16 such requests since 2005, only 9 of which have been filed since January 2009. If the Massachusetts repair industry is only filling approximately 3 requests per year, how big can this supposed information and tooling problem be?”

The data from AAIA and NASTF is consistent with NESSARA’s own investigation and findings that access to service information and tooling is not the problem. The Right to Repair Coalition is promoting something that is just plain wrong. “The legislation is premature, at best, and appears to be, totally, unnecessary. Actually, it is disrupting what our industry needs to be focused on, which is proper training and education. If this bill or similar legislation passes, it will be challenged and end up in litigation, and for what? What will the impact on the industry be? Our livelihood depends on motor vehicle repairs. We have a responsibility to speak out, strongly against this legislation” said Montbleau.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

The New BMW 5 Series Touring  
BRACKNELL, UNITED KINGDOM: Hot on the heels of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon that goes on sale in March, BMW’s popular Touring model will reach the UK market in September 2010. It will be the fourth generation of Touring models in the 5 Series range and brings traditional BMW driving qualities and elegance to those seeking flexibility, adaptability and versatility from their car.

Initially available in four derivatives, the new BMW 5 Series Touring offers a choice of two petrol cars, the 523i and 535i, and two diesel models, the 520d and 530d. All four are packed with innovative technology that ensures class-leading performance, fuel economy and CO2 emissions, while providing an elegant, comfortable and driver-oriented estate car.

Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK, said: “BMW can fairly claim to have created the idea to turn executive saloon cars into practical yet still fun to drive estates with its first 5 Series Touring in the UK back in 1991. Up until then most large estates were utilitarian load-luggers that eschewed both the driving capabilities of their saloon cousins as well as the style. The 5 Series Touring changed all that and its success has led to the new fourth generation being unveiled today.

“Since the UK is the third largest market for the 5 Series Touring, this new model is an important and exciting one for us. Offering best in class performance, fuel efficiency and emissions, I have high hopes for the new 5 Series Touring here.”

The new BMW 5 Series Touring is an uncompromising synthesis of power, handling, versatility and elegant style. It has been designed to reflect its almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution with beautifully balanced proportions, short overhangs, a flowing roofline and a long, contoured bonnet. It is at once a sporting, dynamic and attractive car with intelligent versatility built in.

For example, all models feature 40/20/40 flat-folding rear seat backrests, a luggage load cover that retracts and lowers automatically with the tailgate and a self opening rear window for ease of loading smaller items - a unique feature in the market. All models also feature self-levelling air suspension at the rear to ensure that the Touring is unaffected when carrying heavy loads. For the comfort of driver and passengers alike Dakota leather upholstery is now standard for all models as is automatic air conditioning with two-zone control.

Outside, the roof rails are now finished in matt aluminium, although black high gloss or matt black can be specified at no cost and chromeline exterior window surrounds are now standard. Matt aluminium or high gloss shadowline can be specified optionally. Park Distance Control, front and rear, and Bluetooth telephone preparation are also now standard for all models while a USB audio interface and ambient lighting are standard for six-cylinder cars.

Space and comfort The boot capacity of the new Touring is 560 litres, 60 more than the outgoing model, and a huge 1,670 litres with all rear seats folded. A further option is Extended Storage that includes “cargo” functionality for rear seats. This allows the rear seat backrests to be fixed in a more upright position thereby increasing luggage capacity by 30 litres and minimising wasted space behind rear seats. This feature increases normal load capacity to 590 litres as well as adding lashing rails, storage nets and straps. Naturally, a ski bag is available as an option.

The new Touring has the longest wheelbase in its class at 2,968mm, creating a greater feeling of interior space. This translates into an extra 13mm of knee room for rear passengers, compared to the previous 5 Series.

Inside, the cabin features many of the sporting but luxurious quality and comfort features found in the BMW 7 Series. Inclined seven degrees towards the driver, the asymmetrically designed centre console ensures that all controls are comfortably within reach. The multifunctional steering wheel has been simplified, putting all of the function keys in one hand and infotainment in the other.

The use of partial Black Panel technology on the instrument panel and centre console adds an extra touch of luxury to the cabin. A signature piece of BMW design, Black Panel technology integrates the centre console into the trim of the car. High-resolution electronic displays are visible when needed, but when not in use they discreetly blend in to form an elegant black band across the interior.

High performance in every aspect

The 520d Touring is expected to be the biggest seller in the UK. Its 1,995cc four cylinder diesel engine features the latest generation common-rail direct injection and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry which increases power to 184hp at 4,000rpm. Combined with torque of 380 Nm from only 1,900 rpm this jewel of an engine ensures that it can provide swift and safe overtaking responses at any time.

The 520d Touring accelerates from zero to 62mph in 8.3 seconds and onto a top speed of 138mph. Sipping fuel at a combined fuel consumption of 54.3mpg and offering a CO2 rating of 137g/km, the BMW 520d Touring is the most efficient car in the executive estate car segment.

The silky smooth straight-six turbocharged engine of the 530d Touring ups the diesel ante. Now equipped with increased power of 245hp at 4,000rpm and with a peak torque of 540Nm from as low as 1,750rpm, the 530d Touring provides more of what enthusiastic customers love. With the introduction of upgraded piezo-injectors, the BMW 530d emits just 165g/km (with automatic transmission), while averaging a combined consumption figure of 44.8mpg. The BMW 530d is capable of accelerating from zero to 62mph in just 6.4 seconds and attaining an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.

Joining the diesel-powered cars from launch are two straight-six petrol engines - the 523i and the 535i. The 535i is the first engine to combine a single turbocharged engine with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC – BMW’s own system that controls how much the engine’s valves open for optimum efficiency. These measures allow the engine to meet strict emissions regulations whilst delivering optimum performance with a zero to 62mph time of 6.0 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Consumption and emissions figures reflect its technological prowess with 33.2mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 197g/km, both values using the more popular automatic transmission.

The naturally-aspirated 523i Touring has also utilises High Precision Direct Injection resulting in high-revving, responsive driving characteristics, combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. The 523i unit delivers maximum output of 204hp at 6,100 rpm and a peak torque of 270Nm from 1,500 all the way through to 4,250 rpm to ensure smooth progression at any speed. Its responsiveness translates into a zero to 62mph speed of 8.2 seconds with a top speed of 155mph*. Its economical nature delivers CO2 emissions of 183g/km and a combined consumption of 36.2mpg.

Efficient and Dynamic at no extra cost The new BMW 5 Series Touring comes with a dazzling array of EfficientDynamics technologies. The BMW 520d Touring is the first 5 Series to come with Auto Start-Stop, reducing the engine idle period when coming to a short stop. All manual gearbox models come with an Optimum gearshift indicator to help drivers decide when to change gear to optimise the car’s efficiency.

Completing the panoply of BMW’s pioneering EfficientDynamics package are Brake Energy Regeneration, Active Aerodynamics, Low rolling resistance tyres, Electric Power Steering and lightweight engineering throughout the vehicle. High-precision direct fuel injection is also fitted on both petrol models.

Transmission All BMW 5 Series Touring models come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox which has been optimised compared to previous transmissions for greater efficiency. A redesigned gearshift lever and enhanced internal packaging have resulted in a smoother, sportier gearshift.

The option of BMW’s new eight-speed automatic transmission brings the luxury and refinement of the 7 Series to the new Touring range. While being six per cent more fuel efficient, the weight and size of the gearbox remain unchanged. Buyers of all variants can specify the eight-speed automatic gearbox or an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddles for those that prefer more enthusiastic style of driving.

For those BMW 5 Series Touring models specified with Variable Damper Control or Adaptive Drive packages, the Drive Dynamic Control (DDC) chassis configurator is fitted to enhance ride and handling still further. DDC allows for fine tuning of the chassis with the choice of Normal, Comfort, Sport and Sport+. Each mode changes the levels of steering assistance, throttle response, gear change characteristics, degree of Dynamic Stability Control interaction and, courtesy of adjustable dampers, the ride and handling characteristics.

Innovative new optional equipment The BMW 5 Series Touring can be specified with Park Assist to enhance driver convenience. Once a button on the centre console is pressed ultrasound sensors located in the side indicator surrounds scan the road either side of the vehicle for an appropriate parking space. On location of a suitable free bay the driver then only need operate the accelerator and brake pedals while the Park Assist system swiftly slots the car into the space with ease.

Four-wheel Integral Active Steering can also be specified for the first time on a 5 Series Touring and a car equipped with it benefits from a turning circle reduced by half a metre. Meanwhile, the Surround View system uses cameras in the side mirrors and the front wheel arches in conjunction with Park Distance Control and the optional Reversing Assist camera to provide a 360 degree view on the iDrive display for perfect parking.

The BMW 5 Series Touring is offered with a wealth of optional equipment to enhance driver safety, comfort and enjoyment. Head-up Display, Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning, Speed Limit Info and two rear entertainment packages are all available.

In the UK the BMW 5 Series Touring will be offered with four optional equipment packages. BMW Business Advanced Media and BMW Professional Multimedia packages include BMW Navigation, BMW ConnectedDrive – Assist and Online and Voice control. The Dynamic package includes 19-inch alloy wheels, Sport seats, Anthracite headlining, Sport leather steering wheel and High-gloss exterior trim. The Visibility package includes Adaptive headlights, Xenon headlights, High-beam Assist and headlight wash.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Coming to a City Near You: Aston Martin DBS Carbon Black Edition  
If you've been waiting patiently – even not so patiently – to get your hands on the new Carbon Black edition of the Aston Martin DBS, you'll still have to wait until the summer to take delivery. Oh, and a trunk full of hundred-dollar bills. But if all you want is to catch a glimpse, we've got good news for you. Because no matter where you are in the continental United States, chances are there's a DBS Carbon coming to a city near you.

In a special demonstration organized by Aston's exclusive audio partner Bang & Olufsen – which furnishes the 13-speaker, 1000-watt sound system in the DBS – a pair of the special Carbon Black editions will be touring America. Along their route, they'll be hitting New York, Washington, Miami, Dallas, Chicago, San Francisco and LA. So unless you live in Oregon, you're covered.

If you do swing by a local Aston dealer when the Carbon Black editions are in town, you'll see a pair of DBS coupes with a special-process black flick paint and an interior with carbon-Kevlar seats covered in black leather with silver stitching, along with special wheels and badging.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Automoblox enters racing on Highcroft wing, debuts new racer  
Our favorite purveyor of heirloom quality toy cars, Automoblox, has partnered with Highcroft Racing to enter the world of toy (and real) motorsports. The company's logo will be displayed on the wing of Highcroft's HPD ARX-01c car being campaigned in the 2010 season of the American Le Mans Series. The season opening 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race occurs this weekend, and Automoblox is celebrating its association with Highcroft Racing by announcing a new model to its extensive lineup of toy cars.

The new car is a Highcroft-branded version of the C9-R sports car. Not only is it decked out for racing duty, but the new model also comes with a color-coordinated version of the heavy duty T900 truck and a trailer to tow the race car to each event. And by "event" we mean the imaginary 12 Hours of Sebring in your living room and the 24 Hours of Le Mans that goes from your spare bedroom into the home office and down the very famous Mulsanne Hallway.

Curiously, these two companies got together when a member of the Highcroft Racing team bought an Automoblox car for his kid. They reached out to Automoblox and found a partner that, according to them, shares their values of "professionalism, precision, high performance and striving to be better than the opposition." So keep an eye out for the Automoblox logo whizzing by the cameras on the wing of Highcroft's HPD ARX-01c this weekend at Sebring, and if that gets you hankering for some toy racing of your own, the Highcroft-branded Automoblox racer will be available in April (price TBD).

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Report: U.S. market Fiat 500 to get upgraded platform  
We're all very excited that the cute little Fiat 500 will be making its way Stateside next year, and if new reports are to be believed, it turns out that the U.S.-spec 500 will actually be better than the one already on sale in Europe. Inside Line reports that when the Americanized 500 starts production in Mexico this December, it will be built on the automaker's new baby car A platform, which will also underpin the 2011 Fiat Panda and Lancia Ypsilon.

So, how is this an improvement? The new platform will provide improved crash protection (meeting the strict U.S. standards), along with reductions in noise, vibration and harshness over the current 500. Other markets will not get this update, however, because the cost of switching platforms simply isn't feasible for a car that isn't receiving a complete overhaul (sorry, Europe).

Additionally, Fiat is still deciding what the official name of the U.S.-spec 500 will be when it goes on sale next year. The obvious decision is to leave the numeric 500 name in place, though the automaker is considering using the Italian spelling, Cinquecento, instead. Honestly, we don't care what they call it – we're just glad the little guy is coming our way soon.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Nissan Keeping Titan Options Open  
During the recent launch of the 2010 Nissan Patrol in Abu Dhabi, Motor Trend caught up with Patrol program manager Carla Bailo and asked her a few questions about Nissan's SUV plans in North America.

Motor Trend: Have you killed the Armada?

Carla Bailo: Right now it is still TBD. We are going to continue building the current Titan-based model as long as it is physically possible -- meaning as long as it meets all the necessary requirements: emissions, safety, etc.

2010 Nissan Armada Front View Click to view Gallery MT: Where are you going to build it?

CB: In the U.S. at Canton.

MT: I thought NV [Nissan's commercial vehicle designation] was replacing it there?

CB: We are putting commercial vehicles there, but there are two separate lines so fundamentally, we have the capacity to continue to build and we still have demand. So as long as we have the demand, we are going to continue.

Nissan NV200 Front Click to view Gallery If you remember, we were going to make our next Titan off of the Chrysler. When Chrysler was bought by Fiat, that deal was suspended and we are not continuing with that. We are looking at doing another in-house design and we are keeping our options open as to whether we work with someone else.

That new generation may or may not include an SUV, it really depends on what we see in terms of the market segment itself, if there is going to be demand or an opening or if we believe that segment is going away.

Source : http://www.motortrend.com (3/16/2010)

Dodge Viper ACR-X V10 glows red hot on the dyno  
There's something about glowing hot metal that gets our hearts racing here at Autoblog. Whether it's disc brakes on a racing prototype during an endurance night race or an exhaust manifold at redline during dyno testing, there's something about metal resisting the forces of incredible heat that appeals to the gearhead in us. That's why we took particular interest in this video of the new 2010 Viper ACR-X that shows Dodge's engineers going through final testing of its 8.4-liter V10.

Because it's built for the track and not the street, the ACR-X gets a few tweaks compared to the stock Viper V10. Gone are the catalytic converters and in go forged pistons, a modified calibration and long tube headers good for 640 horsepower and 605 lb-ft torque. Those headers not only look fantastic when the engine is off, they glow bright orange when the V10 is strapped to the engine dyno and revved to redline for sustained periods.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Review: 2010 Honda Element with Dog Friendly package leaves tails wagging  
How does an automaker take a model that's been largely unchanged since inception and give it a little juice seven years into its life cycle? If you're Honda, you go to the dogs. Literally. After unveiling it as a "concept" at the 2009 New York Auto Show, the Dog Friendly Honda Element accessory package has made the transition to production. The theory is that if you're a dog lover, you might consider buying an Element geared specifically toward those needs.

The Big H has plenty of experience in this department. As we showed you earlier today, in Japan there's a dedicated Honda Dog website (it's incredible, really) loaded with info about transporting pups in basically every JDM Honda offering. Naturally, there are "Travel Dog" accessories that drivers can purchase for each car as well. In fact, in Japan, there's also a dedicated model, the Vamos Travel Dog, which is specifically outfitted with dog owners in mind – much like the Stateside-market Elements kitted out with the new Dog Friendly gear. As luck would have it, I have two dogs. Hence, I, and they, will be your humble 2010 Honda Element (Dog Friendly!) evaluators.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Autoblog Podcast #170 - The Hooniverse Visits  
Jeff Glucker and Tim Odell of Hooniverse.com join Chris, Sam and Dan for Episode #170 of the Autoblog Podcast. The first stop is the Autoblog Garage, and the Hoons have their own garage, awesomely occupied by much better hardware than ours.

Items plucked from the news include the Ford Police Interceptor, 2011 Kia Optima, rumored Porsche Panamera convertible, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, and the return of Lotus and Cosworth to Indy. Wade through that, and get rewarded with a few terrible answers to good questions.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Ferrari World roller coasters pull into the station in Abu Dhabi  
If you thought it took a long time to get to the top of the list and take delivery on a newly-assembled Ferrari supercar, that's nothing compared to the time that has gone in to building the brand's first theme park. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has been under construction for two years now, and is finally set to open its doors to the public sometime later this year. And when it does, it will be not only the first theme park in the region, but the first of its kind in the world.

The major attractions at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will comprise some 20 rides, including two roller-coasters: one based on an F1 car, running at speeds at upwards of 200 kilometers per hour (125 mph) and shooting straight up through the massive scarlet roof structure 62 meters into the air.

The second is what you see pictured here, the GT Racing Coaster. That attraction will run two four-seat cars (styled after the F430 Spider) on parallel tracks in a race to the finish line. This is the first image we've received of the coaster car, and we can't help but wonder why they don't go with a 458 Italia-inspired car at this point.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Toyota counts rising cost of recall woes  
TOKYO: A massive global recall, mounting legal bills and a battered reputation add up to a very expensive problem for Toyota.

How expensive? Depends on who you ask. With new developments emerging almost daily, predicting a final pricetag for the Japanese automaker is a daunting calculation that only some analysts have attempted.

The sole figure from Toyota itself came on Feb. 4 along with the company's October-December earnings results. It estimated that the worldwide recall, now involving some 8.5 million cars, could cost up to 180 billion yen ($2 billion), with 100 billion yen for repairs and 80 billion yen in lost sales. It said the recalls may dent global demand for Toyota models by 100,000 vehicles.

Analysts with their own estimates say the total is bound to climb higher.

JP Morgan's Kohei Takahashi expects Toyota to take a one-time 500 billion yen ($5.5 billion) hit, including recall-related costs and litigation settlements. He has lowered his estimate for operating profit next fiscal year starting April to 540 billion yen ($5.9 billion) from 760 billion yen, as higher profit margins in emerging markets soften the blow of recall expenses.

Deutsche Securities estimates a 290 billion yen ($3.2 billion) impact to earnings in the coming fiscal year, though analyst Kurt Sanger acknowledges that any attempt to quantify the impact involves an almost certain degree of error.

``We expect Toyota to respond aggressively to win back much of its lost market share, but it will come at a cost,'' he said in a recent report.

Usually stingy with incentives, Toyota announced new deals recently to bring shoppers back into its showrooms in the U.S., a key market and the eye of the current storm. Existing Toyota owners who buy another vehicle from the company will receive two years of free maintenance. The automaker also is offering zero-per cent financing and low-priced leases to customers who buy or lease several of the recalled vehicles, including Corollas, Camrys and Avalons.

Since the fall, Toyota has recalled more than 6 million vehicles in the United States because of acceleration problems and braking flaws. Regulators have linked 52 deaths to crashes allegedly caused by accelerator problems, and the recalls were the subject of three recent congressional hearings.

At least 89 class-action lawsuits have been filed against the Japanese automaker, which could cost the company $3 billion or more.

The bad publicity will likely send Toyota's market share in the U.S. to about 13 per cent in the January-March quarter from 17 percent before the recalls began, according to Macquarie Securities. Analyst Clive Wiggins estimates that market share next year will drop 1.2 percentage points from its previous forecast of 17.9 per cent, translating to an implied 144,900 fewer cars sold and $3.3 billion in lost sales.

But often forgotten amid the recent bad news is what's going right for Toyota, analysts say.

It has done a good job cutting costs over the past year, and it is still a leader in environmental technologies. Most analysts predict robust profit growth next year as demand grows in emerging markets like China. Toyota's balance sheet remains strong, with cash assets of $23.6 billion as of Dec. 31.

Noriyuki Matsushima, an auto analyst at Citigroup Global Markets Japan, gives Toyota stock a ``buy/medium risk'' rating, describing the issue as ``attractive for long-term investors.''

``Toyota has announced plans to deal with the recalls, and is working to address the problems promptly,'' he said in a report this week. ``We think the recall story is likely to die down by April if its quality dealershps can quickly repair the problems while providing reassurance to customers.''

For now, the incentives appear to be working, with dealers reporting surging sales in the first week of the month after Toyota's sales fell 9 per cent in February.

Toyota still expects to post a net profit of 80 billion yen ($885 million) in the fiscal year ending March 31, a massive turnaround from a net loss last year of 437 billion yen.

In trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Toyota shares were up 1.7 per cent at 3,565 yen, beating a slight decline of the benchmark Nikkei 225 stock index. The issue has lost about 14 per cent of its value over the last eight weeks.

Source : http://economictimes.indiatimes.com (3/16/2010)

Renault-Nissan to continue with multi-partner strategy for India  
Mr Carlos Ghosn, the CEO of Renault and Nissan, today gave sufficient indications to the effect that the multi-partner strategy of Renault-Nissan for India, would continue.

Renault-Nissan, the alliance of the French and Japanese car majors (Renault has 44 per cent stake in Nissan) has several partners in India – with Mahindra & Mahindra (the joint venture produces the Logan car), Bajaj (to produce a ultra-low cost car), Ashok Leyland (for light commercial vehicles, power trains, R&D and a possible small car) and with Hover Automotive (for marketing).

Mr Ghosn was quoted a few months ago as saying that Renault-Nissan might review its multi-partner strategy for India.

At a press conference here today, he, however, said that all the alliances would continue, because “we are doing different things with different partners and there is no overlap.”

Moreover, multiple partnerships with Indian companies “allows us to learn more about India”, especially in “frugal engineering”, he said.

He said that Renault was well on the way to producing the ultra-low cost car in collaboration with Bajaj and Renault is negotiating the terms of the contract with Bajaj. “I don't want you to think, because we are not telling anything, that there is a problem,” he said.

He replied in the negative when asked if there was scope for one more car in collaboration with Bajaj, as Bajaj has “told us that their hands are full.”

Logan woes

On the Logan, Mr Ghosn said that while Renault was “obviously not satisfied” with the performance of the car in the Indian market, the French major was in discussions with Mahindra & Mahindra about how to reposition the car to make it more successful in India. (Logan has been selling about 400 units a month.)

He said that the partners were discussing about making the organisation “more nimble and fast to the market,” but no conclusion has been reached so far.

However, he stressed that the Logan will “stay in the Indian market and the Indian consumers will continue to enjoy the product and the services around the product.”

“It is too early to go about what is going to be the decision,” he said, without amplifying that point. On the joint venture with Ashok Leyland to make light commercial vehicles, Mr Gilles Normand, Nissan's Corporate Vice-President, Africa, Middle East and India, said the alliance had decided on two products – one of which would be manufactured from Ashok Leyland's plant and would roll out in 2011-12.

The second would be made by Nissan at its Oragadam plant. The joint venture initially planned to set up a greenfield facility, but had to re-cast the plans due to the global economic slowdown.

Chennai plant

Mr Ghosn, who is here for the formal inauguration of the Renault-Nissan's car plant at Oragadam near Chennai, said that the plant would start producing the Micra cars from May.

Its capacity in the first stage would be 200,000 cars and would reach full capacity production “at the latest” by 2012. By 2015, the plant will be manufacturing 400,000 cars. More than half of the production from Chennai would be exported, Mr Ghosn said.

He said that unlike most small cars, which sacrifice functionalities to achieve low cost, the Micra would be a feature-rich car offered at a low price.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (3/16/2010)

Nissan-Leyland car to target the mass market  
The car that could come out of a joint venture between Nissan and Ashok Leyland would be positioned to address the mass market — below the ‘Micra', but above the ultra low-cost car that Renault (Nissan's partner) is expected to produce in partnership with Bajaj.

Disclosing this at a press conference here today, Mr Carlos Ghosn, CEO of Nissan and Renault, said that below the ‘B' segment car, Micra, which Nissan will start manufacturing at its Chennai plant from May, there is a huge range of vehicles. (The Micra is expected to be priced between Rs 4 lakh and Rs 5 lakh). These vehicles account for about half the Indian car market (currently, two million vehicles).

Observing that Renault-Nissan has “nothing in these segments”, Mr Ghosn said that while one of the products in this space is the ‘ultra low-cost' car of Renault-Bajaj, there is room for another product.

Global hub for small cars

These small cars also represent a big percentage of the markets in most developing countries, not just India, he said, indicating that India would be Nissan's global hub for the production of small cars.

Mr Ghosn did not think that there would be any overlap of projects between Renault-Nissan and the multiple partners that it worked with. Renault-Nissan would not do the same things with each partner, he added. Mr Ghosn described Ashok Leyland as an “active partner” with whom Nissan is “discussing many projects”, but said he would “not tell what we are discussing because we have not come to any conclusions.”

The Indian car market would grow to five million over the next 10 years. “Somebody will have to bring in the additional three million,” he said, adding that Renault-Nissan would like a fair share of this market.

The Chennai plant would reach a capacity of two lakh cars in 2012, half of which would be exported, and four lakh by 2015. (See also Page 3)

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (3/16/2010)

Toyota casts doubt on 'runaway' Prius claim  
WASHINGTON/SAN DIEGO: Toyota Motor Corp said on Monday it had found no evidence to support the driver's account of a widely publicized "runaway" Prius incident in California that overshadowed the company's attempts to restart sales after a punishing series of recalls.

U.S. safety investigators said separately that they had yet to pinpoint any evidence to support or disprove the claim that a 2008 Prius sped out of control near San Diego a week ago.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration engineers drove the hybrid in an effort to recreate the episode reported by the driver, James Sikes, but failed to do so, the agency said in its first statement on a hurried and high-profile analysis.

"We would caution people that our work continues and that we may never know exactly what happened with this car," NHTSA said.

Sikes, 61, had reported in a call to emergency telephone operators that his Prius was racing out of control for some 20 minutes before he could slow down the vehicle and bring it to a safe stop with coaching from a California Highway Patrol officer who pulled alongside him.

Highway patrol spokesman Brian Pennings said on Monday that the initial findings of Toyota and NHTSA did not constitute sufficient grounds to reopen an inquiry into the incident.

"Up until now, they've presented no physical evidence that's like a smoking gun to disprove Mr. Sikes' statement," Pennings told Reuters. "We have to take Mr. Sikes at his word until there's evidence to discount his statement."

Pennings added that observations of the highway patrol officer who came to Sikes aid supported his claim. When the state trooper caught up with Sikes' Prius on the freeway, the car was traveling at 90 mph with the brake lights illuminated and the smell of burning brakes in the air, he said.

Pennings said that even when Sikes managed to slow the car by following the officer's instructions to apply the footbrakes and emergency brake simultaneously, the driver appeared to be "literally standing on the brakes."

Had the brake override system been working correctly, as Toyota says it was, that "should have killed the engine," Pennings said.

Toyota said it had found no evidence that Sikes had been applying the brake forcefully and said he should have been able to stop the Prius by doing so, or by shifting into neutral or turning off the electronic power switch.

The March 8 incident came at a crucial time for Toyota. The automaker has been struggling for almost two months to reassure a jittery public it has turned a corner in dealing with safety issues that sparked a recall of 8.5 million vehicles.

Although Toyota's March U.S. sales have been up sharply because of cash rebates and zero-percent financing offers, some analysts have said the long-term commercial damage from the automaker's safety crisis remains harder to assess.

Scrutiny of the Prius, a vehicle the automaker considers its most important, has also raised the stakes for the automaker in ongoing U.S. investigations of unintended acceleration.

Toyota plans to cut output of the Prius by 10 percent starting this month due to a sales slowdown, a source with knowledge of the plans told Reuters.

The 2010 Prius was the subject of a February recall for braking problems, and the 2004 to 2009 model-year Prius hybrids were included in an October recall for loose floor mats.

But the San Diego case was the first to trigger a federal examination of the Prius for unintended acceleration, something U.S. consumers have complained about in a range of other Toyota models, including its top-selling Camry.

'THE HUNT FOR THE GHOST'

California police have said they had no reason to doubt Sikes based on the burning brakes in his car and observations of the officer who helped him.

Toyota, which convened a news conference in San Diego to question Sikes' account of events, declined to comment directly on whether Sikes might have misled investigators.

But Toyota said an examination of his Prius showed that the car was being driven with the brakes lightly and repeatedly applied -- some 250 times over the period of the incident.

The brake override in the Prius would have cut engine power to the vehicle had the driver applied "moderate to heavy" pressure on the brake pedal as Sikes had claimed, it said.

Sikes could not be reached for comment. The San Diego-based law firm representing him said it would not comment until NHTSA had completed its investigation.

Toyota has said it has not been able to identify a cause for cases of unintended acceleration consumers have reported beyond ill-fitting floor mats and sticky accelerator pedals. The automaker has recalled more than 6 million vehicles in the United States for that pair of problems since October.

Commentators have focused on the prospect that drivers could be making mistakes -- hitting the accelerator instead of the brake -- or that Toyota vehicles could be subject to a software glitch or other problem that is hard to replicate.

Toyota said again on Monday that there is no evidence for that latter possibility -- a hypothesis that some critics have dubbed "the ghost in the machine."

"The hunt for the ghost seems to ignore or fly in the face of known facts," Toyota spokesman Mike Michels said outside a San Diego sports stadium where the automaker demonstrated the safety systems on the Prius for reporters.

"There's no evidence that the system heals itself mysteriously," Michels said.

Kelley Blue Book analyst James Bell said Toyota needed to do more than discredit one report of unintended acceleration to reassure consumers. "Until they have a more definitive answer, the elephant stays in the room," Bell said in an email.

RECALLS HURTING IMAGE

ALG, a Santa Barbara, Calif-based firm that tracks vehicle resale values, said Toyota's recalls had damaged the brand. It said its survey of consumer attitudes showed Toyota had dropped to No. 6 from No. 1 in perceived quality.

In response to weaker demand, Toyota will probably need to extend aggressive discounts through June, ALG said.

Sikes had told police and reporters he was driving the car on a freeway when it unexpectedly surged forward and reached speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour.

Two NHTSA investigators joined Toyota experts to examine his Prius, including an on-board diagnostic system designed to record information about the car's various systems.

NHTSA has been criticized by Congress for not aggressively investigating complaints against Toyota.

Authorities believe floor mat problems in Toyota and Lexus vehicles are linked to five U.S. crash deaths since 2007. Another 47 crash fatalities reports over the past decade have been reported due to unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles, according to NHTSA.

There are 59 reports of fatalities linked to episodes of unintended acceleration for other automakers over the same period, NHTSA says.

Source : http://economictimes.indiatimes.com (3/16/2010)

European car sales up in February  
New car sales in Europe rose by 3.2% in February compared with the same month a year earlier, but fell almost 30% in Germany as its scrappage scheme ended.

A total of 1,000,754 new passenger cars were registered in the 28 countries monitored by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).

Slumping sales in Germany were offset by gains in countries such as Italy and the UK which still have stimulus plans.

Toyota saw its European sales fall 20% after a massive recall hurt the brand.

After negative publicity over reports of problems with acceleration and braking in some models, the firm sold just 42,234 cars in February, compared with 53,233 the same month a year ago.

The decline in car purchases in Germany meant that Volkswagen saw sales drop by 2.2%.

In the UK, overall sales rose 26.4%, while they added 18.2% in France, 20.6% in Italy and 47% in Spain.

But sales in several eastern European countries saw a sharp fall.

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk (3/16/2010)

Volkswagen R In The Starting Blocks  
WOLFSBURG, GERMANY -: The Volkswagen R GmbH will be the specialist for sporty exclusive models from Volkswagen in the future. Volkswagen AG has bundled the responsibilities and competencies for development, implementations and sales of individualised vehicle offers into Volkswagen R GmbH. For example, its portfolio includes the two new top models, the Scirocco R and the Golf R as well as the dynamic R Line design packages and luxurious Volkswagen Exclusive items.

“Our vehicles contribute to the emotionalisation and growth of Volkswagen brand,” explained Ulrich Riestenpatt gt. Richter, General Manager of Volkswagen R GmbH.

The company’s name, Volkswagen R GmbH, responds to the increased global demand for individualised vehicles with contemporary sportiness and exclusivity. The sporty positioning will be reflected more intensely in the programme of Volkswagen R in the mid and long term. The company has its headquarters in Warmenau near Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen R GmbH employs a staff of more than 350.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Vauxhall Gives New Expression To Lower Pricing  
LUTON, UNITED KINGDOM –: From today, Vauxhall is introducing new models in its line-up that substantially undercut the list pricing of current entry-level models in each car range.

Five new Expression models, plus new ES models in the Insignia and Astra ranges, will provide customers with a more attractive entry point into each range, and give them the opportunity to consider cars that were previously out of their budget. Company car users will also reap benefits via reduced tax, based on lower P11D values.

In addition to the entry level Insignia ES and new Astra ES, five Vauxhall ranges will benefit from the lower-priced Expression models: Corsa, New Astra, Astra Sports Hatch, Zafira and the Astra Twin Top. The savings mean that a Corsa Expression costs £9,995 – over £1,000 less than the current entry model – and the new Astra Expression is just £13,995 – more than £2,000 below where the current Exclusiv range starts.

Moving up a class, tempting savings can also be found for Insignia buyers, with the Car of the Year-winning model tumbling in price by nearly £1,700 to £17,120 thanks to the introduction of a new ES model, replacing the current Insignia S. Yet despite its more competitive price, the ES is actually better equipped than the outgoing model, featuring standard 17-inch Structure wheels and a CD400 CD player with MP3 format.

Better still, Vauxhall buyers won’t have to sacrifice its traditionally generous equipment levels on Expression models. While the Corsa and Astra Sports Hatch Expression have slightly revised specification lists, the new Astra Expression trades no kit or cosmetics for its lower price compared with the S model, other than using the 87PS version of the 1.4-litre petrol engine.

And while the £14,995 Zafira Expression slashes £3,675 off the price of the UK’s favourite 7-seat compact MPV, it loses no kit apart from roof rails and air conditioning compared with the current Life model.

“With the government’s Scrappage Scheme almost finished, we recognise that our customers will still be looking for the best offers around on new cars,” said Andy Gilson, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director. “With the Expression and ES ranges, we’re reducing the entry-level list price of all key models, while still offering generous specification levels on each car.’

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Toyota On Course With Recall Programme  
EPSOM, UNITED KINGDOM: Just one month on from the launch of Toyota’s accelerator recall campaign, work has been completed on more than half – 90,000-plus – of the cars that have been identified as requiring attention.

An even larger proportion of recalled Prius models have received adjustment to their braking software programme with 58 per cent of the affected vehicles updated.

More than 200 Toyota service centres around the country are pulling out all the stops to ensure the recalls are carried out as quickly as possible with the least inconvenience to customers, with hundreds of technicians and other staff putting in extra hours and cancelling leave. Toyota’s strategy and the commitment shown at local level are being appreciated: Toyota’s survey of around 600 owners who have had their cars attended to shows that 96 per cent are satisfied with their experience of the recall process.

As well as fixing cars that are on the road, Toyota has carried out the required work on all its new cars affected by the issue, which means no delay in deliveries to new owners. Buoyed by a record for February new car sales, Toyota is confident motorists will be keen to take advantage of Toyota’s impressive and extensive range of models through the March registration plate change and beyond.

Miguel Fonseca, Toyota GB Managing Director, said: “Our thanks go to our customers who continue to be supportive and have confidence in the Toyota brand, and to everyone in the Toyota family, from head office to the workshops, who have all worked together to maintain a high level of service quality as we address the challenges of the recall programme.”

"We would also like to thank the customers that continued to show their confidence in Toyota, leading to a new retail sales share record in February. The Toyota Prius February sales total was comfortably more than double the previous best for the month, further proof that UK motorists have faith in Toyota quality and reliability and acknowledge the real-world benefits delivered by Hybrid Synergy Drive.”

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Honda recalls 412,000 US vehicles on 'soft' brakes  
CHICAGO: Honda announced the recall of some 412,000 vehicles in the United States because of problems with "soft" brakes in the latest major blow to the embattled Japanese auto industry.

Honda said the problem can be result from air accumulating in a "vehicle stability assist modulator" which causes the pedal to get closer to the floor than normal before the vehicle stops.

This latest action comes a month after Japan's second-biggest carmaker recalled more than 437,000 vehicles worldwide to fix airbags that it said can explode and spray out potentially deadly metal shards.

In January, some 646,000 Honda Fit and Jazz vehicles were recalled worldwide because the power window switch could short out and cause a fire if a lot of water got into the door handle.

Honda's recalls come as Toyota is struggling to rebuild its once stellar reputation for quality and safety after a series of mass recalls due to faulty accelerator and brake systems.

Toyota has insisted that it has found a solution to defects that triggered the recall of more than eight million vehicles worldwide, including six million in the United States, and have been blamed for about 50 US deaths.

But critics have accused Toyota of intentionally hiding deadly defects from consumers and ignoring potential problems with its electronics.

The top Japanese automaker has been called to Washington to answer a congressional investigation and faces scrutiny by securities regulators and a US federal grand jury investigating whether there is sufficient evidence for criminal charges related to problems with Toyota's brakes and accelerators.

It has also been slapped with scores of civil lawsuits, including one last week from a California prosecutor alleging that Toyota ignored the reports of problems with its vehicles and deliberately misled the public.

Honda's latest recall affects 2007-2008 model years of the Odyssey minivan and boxy Element sport utility vehicle.

Honda said some accidents involving brakes were reported to safety regulators in the vehicles covered under the recall but that it was unlikely the soft pedal problem was a factor.

"There are three injuries reported to NHTSA for vehicles in this range but it's tough to link those injuries to this cause," Honda spokesman Chris Martin told AFP.

That's because the brakes continue to function long after they begin to soften and the softening process takes a long time to develop.

"It's a very slow progression because it's a tiny, tiny amount of air that gets in -- it's smaller than a drop of water," Martin said.

"Customers get a lot of warning."

Honda will be sending letters out to owners next month asking them to schedule an appointment to have the modulator sealed to prevent air intrusion.

Source : http://economictimes.indiatimes.com (3/17/2010)

New Market Report: 2010 U.S. Automobile & Motor Vehicle Mfg. Industry Report  
(live-PR.com) - The Automobile & Motor Vehicle Mfg. Industry report, published annually by Barnes Reports, contains timely and accurate industry statistics, forecasts and demographics. The report features 2010 current and 2011 forecast estimates on the size of the industry (sales, establishments, employment) nationally and for all 50 U.S. States and over 900 metro areas. New to the report this year are: financial

ratios, number of firms and payroll estimates. The report also includes industry definition, 5-year historical trends on industry sales, establishments and employment, a breakdown of establishments, sales and employment by employee size of establishment (9 categories), and estimates on up to 10 sub-industries, including car bodies and chassises (not engines) of passenger cars, trucks and buses.

Since 1998, the Barnes Reports, a division of C. Barnes & Co., has been publishing market research and analysis reports for its clients. Barnes Reports provide the most current and cost-effective demographic data and market reports for the largest U.S. and World industries. Their reports are estimates and forecasts based on Their proprietary economic model which provides data that is timely, accurate and cost-effective (as compared with more expensive primary research and survey information.)

Source : http://www.live-pr.com (3/16/2010)

New diesel for Nissan Murano  
Nissan's Murano 4x4 will be available with a 2.5-litre diesel engine, but no prices and few performance details have been revealed so far.

Although Nissan promises the four-cylinder dCi, which is currently used in its Pathfinder 4x4, will be upgraded and enhanced for the Murano, it has given little information besides output figures of 188bhp and 332lb ft of torque.

That's more torque than the engine offers in the Pathfinder, and is an increase of 80lb ft over the petrol Murano, which costs £32,848.

First deliveries of the diesel version are expected this September.

Source : http://www.whatcar.com (3/16/2010)

Fiat 500C Pink Goes Topless  
LONDON — Fiat can't stop tinkering with the 500. This time, the Italian automaker rolls out the Fiat 500C Pink convertible for the U.K.

The convertible version will be a limited run of just 300 units and carry a price tag that's the U.S. equivalent of $20,454. Fiat said the 500C Pink convertible is spun off the 1.2 Pop specification and features 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome trim, body-colored door mirrors, a leather steering wheel, a Pink key cover, split-folding seat and a Blue&Me infotainment system.

Fiat describes this latest model as "one of several limited-edition Fiat 500 models planned for 2010."

The convertible has its genesis in the shocking-pink Fiat 500 created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Barbie doll last March. Britain's Top Gear described the one-off as "an all-time low for taste and decency."

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

2010 Toyota Tundra Is Focus of a Strange Little Recall  
WASHINGTON — In a strange little recall of the 2010 Toyota Tundra that may go down as one of the smallest in an era of massive Toyota recalls, just two of the four-wheel-drive model of the truck are being recalled for a defect in the front propeller shaft.

"There is a possibility that an improper weld exists at the union of the propeller shaft and yoke," according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in its recalls summary of the problem. "Due to this improper weld, this joint may separate and the separated shaft may come into contact with the road surface.

"This may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash."

Toyota has come under fire in Congress and other quarters for being slow to address the problems associated with the unrelated recall of 8.5 million vehicles in the U.S., Europe, Asia and other regions.

In other documentation filed with the federal government, Toyota said about 500 2010 Tundra trucks had been held at the factory in late October once the problem with the front propeller shaft was discovered. It said the defect in those trucks "has been corrected or is being corrected."

"Toyota determined that only two vehicles containing potentially suspect parts were delivered to Toyota dealers and sold," the automaker reported to NHTSA. It said it is in the process of "contacting both owners."

Toyota dealers will replace the front propeller shaft in those two trucks. The recall is expected to begin sometime in March.

The 2000-'03 Tundra has been the subject of a more extensive recall to fix part of the truck's frame that could corrode. Excessive corrosion of the rear crossmember could cause spare tires or the gas tank to drop off the vehicle. The original recall was announced last November and covered 110,000 trucks sold in 20 cold-weather states in the U.S. But Toyota recently expanded that Tundra recall to cover all trucks in the remaining 30 states.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

Ferrari Previews the GT Roller Coaster  
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — Bizarro, Millennium Force, Nitro and other attention-grabbing roller coasters need to watch their backs. Ferrari has previewed its Ferrari World Abu Dhabi GT roller coaster, and it promises to be one of the most memorable amusement park rides on the planet.

"The GT roller coaster is a racing coaster, which will send two competing roller coaster carriages sprinting along twisting parallel tracks on a race to the finish line," said Ferrari in a statement. "Each coaster car is a replica of a Ferrari F430 Spider."

It is the second of two roller coasters that will anchor the amusement park. The other is billed as the world's fastest roller coaster, with a speed of up to 125 mph that is intended to simulate the feeling of driving a Ferrari F1 racing car.

The roller coasters are two of 20 rides and attractions set for the amusement park, which opens on Yas Island here later this year. The Ferrari GT theme is not only carried on via the roller coaster, but also in the roof of the enclosed theme park. The roof is inspired by the "classic double-curve side profile" of the Ferrari GT.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

2007-'08 Honda Element and Odyssey Recalled  
TORRANCE, California — Honda on Tuesday said it will recall 344,000 of its 2007-'08 Odyssey minivans and 68,000 Elements to fix the vehicle stability assist modulator in response to customer complaints about brakes that feel "soft" or that "gradually exhibit a pedal height that gets lower before the vehicle stops," the automaker said.

It is the latest recall in a string of high-profile recalls from Japanese automakers, most notably the 8.5 million vehicles globally recalled by Toyota recently.

Honda said in a statement that some of the modulators on the affected vehicles were assembled in a way that allows "air intrusion."

"While only a minuscule amount of air can enter the system during each check, over a period of months or years, the air will accumulate and can result in the 'soft brake pedal' or 'low brake pedal' condition symptoms associated with this issue," the automaker said. It has not yet described the fix for those vehicles.

Customer notification of the recall will start in late April. Honda said owners can also check if their vehicle requires repair by going online or by calling (800) 999-1009 and selecting option 4.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

Kia Models Going Into Production in Kazakhstan  
UST-KAMENOGORSK, Kazakhstan — Asia Auto, one of the largest auto plants in Central Asia, will start assembly of three Kia models by the second quarter of 2010, according to company President Yerzhan Mandiev.

He said the plant will build the Kia Cerato sedan, the Mohave — designed for the North American market, where it is sold as the Borrego — and the 2010 version of the Sorento SUV. Specialists from Asia Auto are currently being trained at Kia's South Korean auto factories.

In addition to the Kia models, Asia Auto also plans to strengthen cooperation with its long-term business partners Skoda Auto and General Motors through assembly of new models such as the Skoda Yeti crossover and the new-generation Cadillac SRX. Finally, the company is also going to launch production of UAZ SUV in cooperation with the Russian Sollers auto holding company.

It is reported that the new models will be positioned as midprice products, with prices for the Kia Cerato starting at $14,200.

Asia Auto's Kazakhstan plant was established in 2003. Currently it produces such models as the Lada Niva, the Skoda Octavia and Superb, the Chevrolet Captiva, Lacetti and Epica and the Cadillac Escalade, and its products sell for a wide range of prices from $9,000-$100,000.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

GM Recalling Chevrolet Captiva SUVs in China  
SHANGHAI, China — General Motors has announced it will recall 2,065 imported Chevrolet Captiva sport-utility vehicles in China to fix defects in the steering system. The affected vehicles were made by GM's South Korean unit, Daewoo, between September 18 and December 31, 2007.

GM said the connection between the steering column and the steering intermediate shaft on the affected SUVs may loosen and, under some extreme conditions, affect the handling of the car.

The recall, which started yesterday, will run until the end of October. GM said so far no accidents or injuries have been reported in China and the solution is to reconnect the two parts.

China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said yesterday that it has suspended imports of all Chevrolet Captiva SUVs made by GM Daewoo. It added it also has started inspections of all vehicles made by the company that are imported into China.

The quality watchdog has told Captiva owners to contact dealerships if they have any questions regarding safety. The Captiva, which entered the Chinese mainland in late 2007, marked GM's first foray into the rapidly growing SUV market on the mainland.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

Lexus LFA Special Edition Is Revealed  
LONDON — Lexus is ramping up to the production launch of its LFA supercar by entering two vehicles in the Nurburgring 24 Hours and, according to U.K. publication Autocar, planning the release of an LFA Special Edition.

Two production LFAs, prepped by Gazoo Racing, will contest the Nurburgring endurance race in May, in what will be the first full-fledged competition for the two-seater. While Toyota previously had entered preproduction development versions of the car, this year's event will feature the LFA "in standard production car guise," the company says.

In the meantime, Lexus is planning to release the LFA Special Edition, according to Autocar and other Web sites. Rumored earlier as the LFA Nurburgring Edition, the Special Edition reportedly will get a 10-horsepower bump in output, a recalibrated transmission that slices 0.2 second from shift speeds, a stiffer suspension, new alloy rims with semi-slick tires, a larger fixed rear wing and a new front splitter, according to Autocar, which adds that the car will be available in four colors — Black, Matte Black, Whitest White and Orange.

No word yet on pricing or on whether the Special Edition will be part of the regular production run of 500 cars.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

NUMMI, UAW Reach Tentative Shutdown Agreement  
FREMONT, CA -: NUMMI announced yesterday that the United Auto Workers and NUMMI have come to a tentative shutdown agreement including a retention package which is subject to a ratification vote of the bargaining unit team members. No details about the agreement will be publicly discussed until the Union has had the opportunity to present the terms of the agreement to its membership. The time and date for a ratification vote has not been determined at this time, but the vote will probably take place later this week.

About NUMMI: NUMMI is an award winning auto manufacturing venture that was formed by General Motors and Toyota 25 years ago. It will end vehicle production on April 1, 2010.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Pennsylvania Insurance Department: Auto Policy Premiums Likely Unaffected by Vehicle Recalls  
HARRISBURG, Pa -: Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario addressed how auto recalls may impact insurance coverage and urged consumers to respond to recall notices from vehicle manufacturers.

"Each week, we learn more about safety problems with certain vehicles, raising many consumers' concerns about how that might impact their own auto insurance," said Ario. "Insurance companies cannot cancel coverage or deny a claim because you drive a recalled vehicle. However, consumers are encouraged to respond to recall notices by having your car serviced."

Vehicle recalls occur fairly regularly and auto insurance companies know how to manage these events. While insurance policies are unlikely to change due to a recall, if consumers fail to respond to a recall notice and do not have the vehicle serviced, an insurance company may consider that negligence and a contributing factor to an accident. The insurer could also surcharge or refuse to renew a policy based on the claims pay-out.

When setting rates, most insurance companies use vehicle model rating as one component of a premium. This allows companies to track performance and safety aspects of vehicles, such as the cost to repair, how well the vehicle performs in safety tests and how easily the vehicle could be stolen, to name a few.

It is possible for an insurance company to re-file with the department their model ratings based on a vehicle recall. To date, that has not occurred for the recently recalled Toyota vehicles. Also, if Toyota successfully replaces all the parts in all the affected cars, then nothing may change at all. If rates did change, it would affect only the comprehensive and collision parts of a policy.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Cadillac stores make up bulk of reinstated GM dealerships  
When General Motors entered bankruptcy last spring, the automaker announced the closure of 1,350 dealers and another 650 dealerships that had more than one brand. Recently, The General announced that it planned to reinstate 661 dealers of the 1,161 that applied for a stay of execution, though GM was short on details surrounding why those dealers were chosen. Many of those dealers never actually left the GM dealer group when the automaker gave dealers until October, 2010 to wind down their stores.

A report from Automotive News quotes multiple sources who say that a large percentage of reinstated dealers carried the Cadillac brand. While GM hasn't publicly announced any brand breakdowns of which dealerships were reinstated, 55 of the 75 dealers AN spoke to that were given a new lease on life were of the Wreath and Crest variety.

When GM sent out notices to dealers around the country informing owners that their dealerships were being phased out, a large portion of those stores were reportedly rural Cadillac outlets. AN reports that The General was looking to decrease the dealer footprint of Cadillac from 1,422 U.S. stores to closer to 500. The idea was to more closely mimic the urban-centric model used by Lexus and BMW; a plan that AN says GM has now ditched.

Still, GM reportedly earmarked 922 Cadillac stores for closure. Even if the majority of reinstated stores sell Cadillacs, we're thinking The General has still managed to significantly shrink the retail footprint of its luxury marquee.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Report: GM temporarily restarts Saturn Outlook, Hummer H3 production  
Even though both the Saturn and Hummer brands are being phased out, General Motors has reportedly revived production of both the Outlook crossover and H3 SUV to meet consumer demands.

Last month, GM assembled 1,037 Outlooks at its Lansing, Michigan facility, which is where the crossover's Lamda platform stablemates (Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia) are built. A spokesperson for GM states that production was reinstated to utilize the rest of the Saturn-specific material at the facility, and that the automaker will continue to assemble the Outlook for a few more weeks.

Hummer, on the other hand, will produce 849 H3 and H3Ts to fulfill an order placed by a fleet company. GM's Shreveport, Louisiana plant will commence production of these vehicles on April 12, and the automaker says that this order will be completed no later than May 13. After that, the Shreveport plant will continue to only produce the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickups, though the fate of those vehicles is rather shaky, as well.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Yet Again: Dealer accused of failing to honor eBay deal for new car and this time it's a Dodge Challenger  
It's like déjà vu all over again. Fact: Dude wins an eBay auction for a 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 with 250 miles on the odometer. Fact: Usually a new (or in this case, new-ish) SRT8 sells for about $41,000. Fact: Winning bid was $29,100. Opinion: Sweet deal, bro!

Of course there's the small matter of the people selling it not wanting to let it go for that price. The seller, Glenn E Thomas Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Signal Hill, CA near Long Beach, has apparently made the same mistake that Glenn Hyundai of Lexington, KY made with the Genesis Coupe. Meaning that somebody at Glenn E Thomas forgot to set a reserve on the auction, and they just sold a car for much less than they'd planned.

There's a 20+ page "discussion," raging over at Challengertalk.com. Opinions are slightly mixed, but it seems that the overriding sentiment is that the buyer (named Hitman) won the auction fair and square and that once again, a novice dealer has wandered into the minefield that is selling a new car for less than they intended via eBay. Last we heard, Hyundai of America stepped in and helped settle the Genesis Coupe debacle. Good luck to Hitman, that (possibly) lucky SOB.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Honda recalling 410,000 Odysseys and Elements for brake problem  
Honda has announced a recall for some 410,000 vehicle due to a defect with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) module. According to the automaker, 344,00 Odysseys and 68,000 Elements (MY 2007-2008) are affected by the problem and owners will be notified via mail this April to take their vehicles into dealers.

The issue with the VSA results in a softening sensation through brake pedal and a longer pedal travel that requires owners to apply more pressure to bring their vehicles to a halt. The condition worsens over time as the stability control system lets a small amount of air into the braking system.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Mopar also planning high lift Ram 1500 for Jeep Safari, Raptor put on notice  
Answering the question of whether Mopar's Ram Power Wagon concept is meant to be a competitor to the awe-inspiring Ford SVT Raptor (that'd be a 'no,' it would seem) is a report courtesy of our friends at PickupTrucks.com that Chrysler's go-fast division is also planning to release a long-travel version of the Ram 1500 at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah.

Adding credibility to Mopar's off-road-ready Ram "research project" is the presence of veteran Baja racer Kent Kroeker, who's KORE company is already the go-to expert for aftermarket Dodge truck goodies (see photo above of his Ram 2500 racer). Being based on the Ram 1500 means that Chrysler's Raptor-fighter will feature independent suspension at all four corners coil rear springs. We should also expect plenty of suspension travel. Oh, and could this be a hint at the future?

While it's not necessarily expected that the Ram brand will offer such a high-lift, long-travel model in dealerships right off the factory floor, there is a decent chance that the components developed for this concept could end up in a Mopar accessory or KORE catalog (or both?) sometime soon. And you can count us firmly among those looking forward to that.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

BorgWarner sets up Rs 30 cr facility near Chennai  
CHENNAI: BorgWarner Inc, a US based $ 4 billion( 2009) auto component and systems manufacturing company with presence in 18 countries, has established its Indian manufacturing facility at Sipcot industrial park at Sriperambadur near Chennai.

Set up on a 6.3 acre campus at a cost of Rs 30 crore, the plant will have an annual capacity of three lakh assemblies. It will make viscous fan drives, fans and a few other thermal management products.

Optimum cooling of the engine under all conditions, lowering the noise levels, and increasing fuel economy are some of the beneficial features of the fan drive developed by the company. The plant has sufficient room for expansion.

It began Indian operations in 2001 through the subsidiary, Borgwarner cooling systems India. It imported products which helped in thermal management of engines used in SUVs and heavy vehicles. In 2004, it set up an interim manufacturing facility at Aynambakkam in Chennai.

With the current Indian market at Rs 100 crore and expected to grow at 10 to 12%, BW decided to set up a full fledged plant. Indian subsidiary’s MD, Umashankar said ," With out expertise, product leadership and a good understanding of the market, the new facility will only enhance our capability to attain higher standards to meet the market requirements and enhance our market leadership position".

It is hoping to clock a turnover of Rs 65 crore this year against Rs 49 crore in 2008-09. It services companies like Tata Motors, Tata Cummins, M & M, ALL, Force Motors, Volvo, Eicher, Asia Motor works and Kirloskar. BW has plans for launching a slew of India specific products. It is also proposed to use the facility to tap the export potential in the neighbouring countries.

Source : Economic Times (3/16/2010)

Two Years on From its Wheels Car of the Year Win the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Continues its Winning Ways  
MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA: Mercedes-Benz has celebrated the sale of its 15,000th W204-model C-Class in Australia by announcing a number of significant upgrades to the award-winning range.

The car that won Wheels magazine’s coveted car of the year award now gains a number of important enhancements - which include direct-injection turbocharged power and substantial standard equipment additions.

The result of ongoing customer feedback and the federal government’s import duty reduction for 2010, these enhancements cover the complete C-Class model line-up - including the fire-breathing C 63 AMG.

The Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Mr Horst von Sanden said “In outselling its nearest rival by more than 17 percent since launch and maintaining that sales scorecard during 2009’s challenging market is a fine achievement for our brand.

“Our C-Class Estate has established itself with a very comfortable niche in the market and the two-model bahn-storming C 63 AMG range outsold its rival’s range of three models by 28 percent in 2009.

“For 2010 we have added $3,000 worth of new standard equipment right across the four-cylinder C-Class with no price increase – but with significant improvements in power, emissions and fuel economy. The six-cylinder C-Class gains almost $8,000 worth of equipment in addition to new nomenclature,” said von Sanden.

First shipments of the value-rich 2010 C-Class have now arrived in Australia.

All upgrades to each model in the C-Class range are detailed below.

Mercedes-Benz C 200 CGI Sedan and Estate The Australian Mercedes-Benz C-Class now starts with the new C 200 CGI. This petrol-powered model (available in both Sedan and Estate) replaces the well-known entry-level C 200 KOMPRESSOR.

The major powertrain-related differences are: # The C 200 CGI uses a single exhaust gas-driven turbocharger to enhance torque and fuel efficiency whereas the C 200 KOMPRESSOR used a crankshaft-driven supercharger;

# The C 200 CGI uses state-of-the-art direct petrol injection to maximise combustion efficiency, thereby reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions

At Mercedes-Benz, CGI denotes direct in-cylinder fuel injection. This process of fuel delivery achieves much higher thermodynamic efficiency. The CGI engine’s ability to achieve near-total combustion of the fuel delivered for each power stroke means less fuel is required to achieve the same output of an engine using conventional fuel injection.

The resulting performance differences are significant. Not only does the maximum torque increase by eight percent, combined-cycle fuel consumption is improved by almost nine percent and exhaust emissions fall by just under ten percent.

The new C 200 CGI Sedan has the same Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP) as the outgoing C 200 KOMPRESSOR - $57,900; but, compared to the outgoing C 200 KOMPRESSOR, the new C 200 CGI gains the following equipment as standard. # 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels # Avantgarde-style grille and bonnet badge # Double cup holders # Split-folding rear seats (1/3 : 2/3)

Combined, these additional features amount to more than $3,000. And given the car’s price remains the same, it clearly represents great value for Australian customers.

The C 200 KOMPRESSOR Estate is replaced by the new C 200 CGI Estate, which retains the same price of $59,790 (MLP). Like the Sedan, it gains the same new standard equipment, listed above.

The popular C 220 CDI Sedan and Estate (four-cylinder turbo-diesel) also receive the same new standard equipment (listed above) and their prices, too, remain unchanged – $61,400 (Sedan MLP) and $62,805 (Estate MLP).

Mercedes-Benz C 250 CGI This is an all-new model in the C-Class. Its addition has been the result of customers seeking a little more from the dynamic and efficient C 200 but without having to move up to a V6-powred model. It is available in both Sedan and Estate.

The C 250 CGI uses the same fuel-efficient turbocharged direct-petrol-injection engine as the C 200 CGI but its more powerful tune offers higher performance.

This all-new model is also more efficient than the outgoing C 200 KOMPRESSOR – almost four percent more fuel efficient with around five percent lower CO2 output – yet with eleven percent more power and an impressive 24 percent more torque.

The all-new C 250 CGI has an MLP of $65,900 for the sedan and $67,790 for the estate. It comes fitted with the following standard features: # COMAND APS (entertainment and navigation system) with single-disc CD/DVD player # 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels # Split-folding rear seats (1/3 : 2/3) # Avantgarde model line # Double cup holders

C 300 Sedan and C 350 CDI Sedan The V6-powered models in the 2010 C-Class (C 300 – petrol; C 350 CDI – turbo-diesel) also come with even greater value.

Their prices remain unchanged but they both receive more than $7,900 in additional standard equipment, listed below: # Vision Package (comprising Bi-Xenon headlights with Intelligent Light System, Harmon/Kardon® LOGIC7® 450W surround sound system, and glass electric sunroof with tilt/slide functions) # 18-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels # Split-folding rear seat # Double-cup holder

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Saab Automobile Appoints New Sales Director  
DETROIT -: Saab Automobile announces the appointment of Adrian Hallmark as Executive Director, Sales.

Hallmark joins Saab's senior management team from Volkswagen, where he was Executive Director of Asia, responsible for operations in 50 markets, including China and Japan. He takes up his new position with immediate effect and will be based at Saab's headquarters in Trollhattan, Sweden, where he will report directly to Saab Automobile President and CEO, Jan Ake Jonsson.

Hallmark assumes responsibility for Saab's global sales operations from Knut Simonsson, who retains the position of Executive Director, Brand and Marketing.

"Saab is embarking on a new era as an independent company and I am delighted to be joining the management team at such an exciting time," said Hallmark. "With three new products about to be launched and a re-energized dealer network in place, I look forward to building sales volumes and reinforcing the brand's presence in major markets around the world."

Announcing the appointment, Jan Ake Jonsson said: "I am very pleased to welcome Adrian to our senior management team. His broad range of experience makes him ideally suited to this role and I am confident he will add significant value as we start to regain our position in various markets and further grow the Saab business." He continued: "Over the next 16 months we will be launching three new products - the 9-5 Sedan, the 9-4X and the 9-5 SportCombi - Adrian's contribution will be vital in optimizing the sales of these exciting new products."

Hallmark is a former Managing Director of Porsche Cars GB Ltd and has also been responsible for Bentley's global sales, marketing and PR activities. He served as Executive Vice President Volkswagen of America Inc, based in Detroit, before taking up his position as Executive Director of Asia.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

First Solo Tour of 2010 Draws Record-Breaking Numbers  
CECIL,: The 2010 Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Tour officially opened this past weekend, with record-breaking participation headlining the Dixie National Tour.

Nearly 300 entries arrived at South Georgia Motorsports Park to open the Solo National Tour on a pair of courses designed by Dixie Region member Robert Lewis.

The Lewis-designed course blended transition maneuvers, including slalom sections and offset gates, with hairpin turns and a fast sweeper. The courses made use of the available space in the South Georgia Motorsports Park paddock, a multi-use facility that hosts drag races and oval track events, in addition to its fourth year hosting a Solo National Tour event.

While the weather was cool and breezy for most of the weekend, it was clear that competitors were ready to break the winter doldrums and get back behind the wheel. Among the Southeast Division participants in their home event were competitors from New York, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Ohio, Missouri, Texas and Washington, which helped the Dixie Tour event become the largest Solo event in the history of the Southeast Division.

After a Friday night barbecue, timed sessions began on Friday morning. Not only was H Stock the largest class, but it had the closest margin of victory on the weekend. Jack Burns, of Hamilton, Ohio, drove a brand-new 2010 JB Racewheels Mini Cooper to a 0.045-second win over 17 competitors, including fellow Mini driver Joe Austin. Burns earned the win after Austin ever-so-lightly bumped a cone near the end of his run, resulting in a two-second penalty which covered the final gap.

The Street Touring® Sport class featured 16 drivers and was capped by Dave Montgomery, of St. Louis, Mo., in a 1988 Honda CRX Si. Montgomery topped co-driver Marc Osgood, of Simpsonville, S.C., by 0.166-second.

Multi-time National Champion Matthew Braun, of Northville, Mich., won the Super Stock class by 3.398 seconds in his 2007 PowerPlug Lotus Elise. Past champion Elliott Harvey, of Wesley Chapel, Fla., won the C Street Prepared class with the oldest car competing in the class, his 1966 Bos Dynotune and Chassis Shop Datsun 2000 – proving once again that Harvey and the Datsun are a formidable driver/car combination.

The newest SCCA Solo class, Street Touring R, was launched at the Dixie Tour as a national supplemental class to 13 competitors, making it one of the largest classes in the field. Veteran national competitor Tommy Pulliam, of Duluth, Ga., won the class by 1.975 seconds in his 2006 WJCo Honda S200. While the S2000 appears to be the base line for the class, claiming the top three positions, the hunt is already on for a competitor. Included in this weekend’s event was a stock Mazda MX-5 that is being developed for the class through a partnership with Tire Rack and Grassroots Magazine. Chris Harvey finished eighth in the car, which was picked up on Friday with less that 500 miles on the odometer to serve as the baseline for modifications.

Preparations are already underway for the Texas National Tour, which takes place this weekend at Mineral Wells Airport.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Indy Racing League Statement On Versus-DirecTV Agreement  
INDIANAPOLIS,: The Indy Racing League, the sanctioning body for the IZOD IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights, issued the following statement from its Chief Executive Officer Randy Bernard regarding the carriage agreement reached today between VERSUS and DIRECTV:

"I would like to thank Derek Chang (executive vice president of content strategy and development of DIRECTV) along with Jamie Davis (VERSUS president) for working diligently to getting this deal done. Everyone wins - DIRECTV, VERSUS and most importantly the fans of the Indy Racing League."

VERSUS is the cable home to the IZOD IndyCar Series, broadcasting 12 races this season. A re-airing of Sunday's season-opening IZOD IndyCar Series event - the season opening Sao Paulo Indy 300 - will air tonight at 10 p.m. EDT on VERSUS.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

BMW 5 Series Touring in full  
BMW has revealed pictures and images of the 4th generation 5 Series Touring.

The car is based on a newly developed vehicle architecture also used for the BMW 7 Series luxury saloons.

The latest revisions to BMW's large estate bring it in line with the 5 Series saloon, and newly-added 5 Series Gran Turismo.

It has a long bonnet, short overhangs, and - perhaps most importantly for a practical car - the longest wheelbase in its segment.

The luggage compartment has a capacity of 560 litres, which can be increased in capacity to a maximum of 1,670 litres by 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.

It may be practical, but in keeping with the company ethos, the BMW design team has strived for sportiness, too.

Optional Dynamic Driving Control enables drivers to set the suspension individually to their personal requirements.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring features as standard pneumatic suspension on the rear axle, including automatic self-levelling.

Adaptive Drive and Integral Active Steering are optionally available.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring is making its debut with a choice of two straight-six petrol engines as well as a four-cylinder and a six-cylinder diesel.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (3/16/2010)

Lotus returns to IndyCar  
Lotus-Cosworth has returned to the U.S. IndyCar Series.

The legendary duo entered into a new technical and commercial partnership with established IndyCar competitors KV Racing Technology.

Lotus competed for a number of years in the IndyCar Series in the 1960s, winning the Indianapolis 500 race outright in 1965.

That was the year of the pioneering Lotus Type 38, driven by Jim Clark. Previously, the team narrowly missed victory to come second in 1963.

The latest Lotus-Cosworth IndyCar wears the classic Racing Green and Yellow livery used on Lotus Racing cars in the 1950s and 1960s.

This new livery debuted yesterday at the first USA round of the IndyCar Series.

Dany Bahar, CEO of Group Lotus plc said, "Racing has always defined Lotus and on many occasions in motorsports history Lotus' numerous innovations have re-defined racing.

"It's only fitting that as the Lotus Racing name re-enters Formula 1, we will also race and innovate again in IndyCar."

Lotus and Cosworth recently announced plans for a strategic partnership looking at the opportunity to develop high performance engines for Lotus cars.

The 2010 IndyCar Series began yesterday with the Sao Paolo Indy 300.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (3/16/2010)

Nissan Murano going diesel  
Nissan Murano will enjoy diesel performance A diesel version of the Nissan Murano crossover SUV is being offered for the first time.

The introduction of the diesel version coincides with the launch of Nissan's fourth crossover, the Juke, and soon after the introduction of the revised Qashqai.

An enhanced version of Nissan's 2.5 dCi four cylinder engine, has been fitted to the Murano.

This YD25 engine from Nissan's range has recently benefitted from comprehensive upgrades in advance of its use in the Murano.

In the latest guise, the engine produces 190PS and 450Nm of torque, with smooth performance thanks to the torquey nature of the engine.

The changes made to the engine include a new direct injection system which operates at 2000 bar, up from 1800 bar.

This increase in pressure means the fuel spray is atomised to an even finer degree resulting in more complete combustion.

A new cylinder head with parallel ports increases the swirl efficiency of the combustion process, smoothing the intake and exhaust flow.

The engine is equipped with a diesel particle filter (DPF), helping the car to achieve Euro5 emission standards.

The engine is offered as a single powertrain with a six-speed automatic gearbox, providing smooth, discreet gear shifts.

Furthermore, the gearbox is equipped with ASC (Adaptive Shift Control), which will modify shift patterns according to the prevailing driving style.

Power is transmitted to the road via Nissan's advanced ALL MODE 4x4-i technology, which sends power to the rear-wheels when a loss of stability or traction is detected.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (3/16/2010)

NTEA Report: Navistar, Nissan, FCCC shine  
ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- Never-seen-before vehicles from Navistar, Nissan, and Freightliner Custom Chassis were key highlights amongst the 70 new products at The Work Truck Show, part of the 46th annual National Truck Equipment Association convention.

As well, both the new 2011 Ford Super Duty and 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD chassis cab trucks were put in front of commercial users for the first time.

Nissan’s introduction, attended by a huge crowd of excited dealers as well as the press, was perhaps the most significant because it marks the company’s first foray into the commercial market.

The new NV2500 van aims at both the Mercedes Sprinter and the more traditional full-size offerings from Ford and General Motors. With a body-on-frame design with big V6 or V8 gasoline engines – no diesel is contemplated – it comes in normal or raised-roof versions, making it a serious contender for tradesman and parts-van use.

Significantly, Nissan is not offering its van through every dealership. A seemingly rigorous application process – including the requirement of a detailed business plan – means that there are only about 18 qualified outlets in Canada right now, with about 30 anticipated when the roster is full.

The new International truck is the class 4-5 TerraStar, which could well find serious favor in a market that’s not really full of competition any longer after the departures of both Sterling and GM. Ford leads the fray in that weight class.

The TerraStar is powered by the all-new 300-hp, 6.4-litre MaxxForce 7 V-8 engine delivering 660 lb ft torque. Features include a compacted graphite iron block and “Advanced EGR” emissions control. It’s matched with an Allison 1000 transmission.

FCCC's offering was an all-electric walk-in van chassis developed in partnership with Enova Systems, which specializes in electric and hybrid-electric drive systems for OEMs. It's built on the FCCC MT-45 platform and uses lithium ion batteries from Tesla Motors. It's 100 percent electric -- HVAC system included -- and custom-built from the ground up. Shown with the typically boxy body, it will sport a more modern, curve-laden look later this year.

Nissan’s entrance to the commercial van market, the NV2500

Over at Ford, show visitors saw the 2011 F-Series Super Duty and its all-new powertrains, led by the Ford-designed/built 6.7-litre Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine. It puts out 735 lb ft of torque at just 1600 rpm, plus 390 hp at 2800 – 85 lb ft and 40 hp more than its predecessor. A new 6.2-litre V-8 gas engine is its running mate, replacing the current 5.4-litre V-8. Both new engines are mated to the new 6R140 TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission. Towing capability is 24,400 lb, payload 6,520 lb.

GMC’s 2011 Sierra 3500HD chassis cab trucks sport an increased gross vehicle weight rating of up to 13,200 lb and a gross combined weight rating of up to 27,500 lb on dual-rear-wheel models. They go on sale this summer, along with commercial 2500HD- and 3500HD-based box-delete models.

All models feature a new front suspension with a 25 percent better axle weight rating that expands the range of upfit capabilities – including a new ambulance prep package – and enables snow plow use on all 4WD models. Also new for chassis cabs are 2WD and 4WD crew-cab configurations.

Source : http://www.todaystrucking.com (3/16/2010)

Special Edition - New Volkswagen Beetle BlackOrange  
BOTANY, AUSTRALIA –: Volkswagen Group Australia is now offering a limited special edition of the New Beetle Range – the New Beetle BlackOrange.

The BlackOrange editon is available on each of the existing model and engine variants – New Beetle in petrol and diesel as well as the New Beetle Cabriolet.

The New Beetle BlackOrange picks up features such as 17” alloy wheels with sports suspension, leatherette seat upholstery, cruise control and front fog lights. The rear side and rear windows come standard with 65% light absorbing tinted glass. Additional styling features include the aluminium finish clutch, brake and accelerator pedals as well as the leather steering wheel and gearshift knob.

The Cabriolet version benefits from a removable and foldable windbreak behind the front seats, 17” alloy wheels, leatherette seat upholstery and the same aluminium highlights as the New Beetle BlackOrange.

The New Beetle BlackOrange is available in two colour combinations. One offers a Black gloss exterior with silver exterior mirrors, silver alloy wheels and lower body side decals in silver. The alternative combination is a Red Rock Metallic exterior with black roof and exterior mirrors as well as black alloy wheels and lower body side decals in Black.

The New Beetle BackOrange is available from $27,500*, just $800 above the equivalent New Beetle model. The New Beetle Cabriolet BlackOrange price is unchanged from the regular cabriolet at $37,700*. The auto transmission is a $2,500 option.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Conor Daly Sponsorship Package for 2010  
Noblesville,: It was announced today that Conor Daly’s 2010 sponsorship package will include INDECK Power, The College Network, Merchant Services LTD and Tom Lange Company. Conor will also have additional support from Alpinestars, Arai Helmets, Electric Visual and St. Vincent Sports Performance.

INDECK, the most diverse boiler manufacturer in the world, is a long time supporter of motor sports and will support Conor for the fourth consecutive year. The College Network is an Indianapolis, Indiana based publishing company that provides home study guides for nurses. The College Network is committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. The College Network founder, Gary Eyler, a former competitor in the Ferrari Challenge, also sponsored Conor’s Dad, Derek Daly at the Indianapolis 500 in 1987.

Merchant Services LTD is one of the fastest growing credit card processors in the country with offices in Miami, New York and Asia. Merchant Services LTD founder, Chapman Ducote, has been a regular competitor in the American Le Mans Series.

Tom Lange Company, a distributor of fruits and vegetables, has been involved in motor sports for many years through partner, Phil Gumpert. Gumpert owns and races a variety of club and historic race cars from Formula Atlantic to Formula 1.

Conor’s 2010 plans include the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear and a European test program which is due to start in late April.

In 2009 Conor was one of six race winners in the Star Mazda championship presented by Goodyear. As a member of the MAZDASPEED driver development ladder system, he finished third in the championship. In 2008 Conor won the Walter Hayes Formula Ford Trophy in England for Team USA, the Ontario Formula Ford Rookie of the Year title driving for Brian Graham Racing and the Mazda Skip Barber National championship.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Chrysler Group's New and Improved Certified Pre-owned Vehicle Program  
AUBURN HILLS, Mich.,; As clocks move forward this weekend, Chrysler Group LLC's Certified Pre-owned Vehicle (CPOV) program springs ahead with improvements that bring customers "certified" peace of mind. The program helps customers enjoy more of their daylight hours with a new Web site, more features they want, more Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram dealers selling certified pre-owned vehicles and more inventory from which to choose.

Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram certified pre-owned vehicles offer many benefits, including peace of mind to consumers in the market for a pre-owned vehicle. Chrysler Group CPOV program vehicles have less than 65,000 miles and are less than six model years old. Among the many benefits for consumers purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle are:

--A 125-point vehicle inspection with upgraded reconditioning using MOPAR® parts exclusively. MOPAR parts are engineered to the same standard as the original equipment part --A Carfax vehicle history report --A three-month/3,000 mile Maximum Care Warranty that covers virtually all operational components --A six-year/80,000 mile transferable Powertrain Limited Warranty with 24-hour/365-day "sign and go" roadside assistance --A three month complimentary SIRIUS satellite radio subscription on equipped vehicles --A $35 rental vehicle allowance if the vehicle needs to be in for overnight service --A full range of service contracts, including lifetime warranty upgrades (Chrysler Group LLC is the only manufacturer to offer this option)

"Now is the perfect time to benefit from a certified pre-owned vehicle purchase," said Fred Diaz, President and Chief Executive Officer-Ram Brand and Lead Executive for the Sales Organization, Chrysler Group LLC. "Chrysler Group LLC's Certified Pre-owned Vehicles take the uncertainty out of purchasing a pre-owned vehicle," added Diaz. "Our program offers consumers 'certified' peace of mind with benefits like a Carfax vehicle history report, 125-point inspection, and some of the best warranty options in the business."

Certified Pre-owned vehicle sales are growing, and participating Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram dealers have increased their inventories resulting in customers having a better selection of vehicles for customers. Customers purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle reap many of the benefits that new vehicle purchasers receive, such as the ability to service and maintain vehicles at the same point of purchase, and the peace of mind that comes with a 125-point inspection and some of the best warranty options in the industry.

"We are excited about, and believe customers will appreciate, the improvements to the program," said Diaz. "The new Web site, www.certifiedpreowned.chrysler.com, offers a number of features that help customers easily find a vehicle that fits their lifestyle."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

U.S.-Market Fiat 500 Will Be Upgraded  
TURIN, Italy — The Fiat 500 that is coming to the U.S. market in 2011 will ride on a different platform from the European version but look exactly the same externally. It will be built around Fiat's new-generation baby car A platform, which will also be used on the 2011 Lancia Ypsilon and Fiat Panda.

The latest version is slated to debut a few months after the U.S. 500 goes into production in Mexico in December of this year.

The main benefits of the new platform are improved crash protection, reduced noise, vibration and harshness and a lighter body-in-white, all areas in which the U.S. 500 will be slightly superior to the European version. Europe will not be getting the update because the sizable cost of switching platforms is not justified by the gains. But the change-over makes sense in the U.S. because the 500 is being produced at a new plant on new machinery.

Fiat is also in the process of deciding what to call its baby in the U.S., the choice being either the numeric 500 or the Italian version of the number, Cinquecento. The company believes that the Italian spelling of the number has some value in the U.S.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

Ragan And Edwards To Attend Boys and Girls Clubs Fundraising Dinner  
CONCORD,: The Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County will hold their annual “It Just Takes One” fundraising dinner on Tuesday, March 23rd. This year the event will be highlighted by two very special guest speakers from Roush Fenway Racing. David Ragan, driver of the No. 6 UPS Ford and Carl Edwards, driver of the No. 99 Aflac Ford Fusion will make a special guest appearance and be the keynote speakers for the dinner.

David Ragan’s sponsor UPS is very involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America through their “Road Code” teen safe driving program. Through the partnership Ragan has had the opportunity to visit various Boys & Girls Club locations throughout the country and talk to teens about safe driving. Ragan ran a special Boys & Girls Club paint scheme in Texas last fall on his UPS Ford and a piece of that car will be shown off in the front of the Club on the night of the event.

“I’ve really enjoyed the time I’ve gotten to spend at a few different Boys & Girls Clubs over the past year,” said Ragan. “It’s a great organization and you can tell the kids who are there really enjoy being there. Encouraging kids to live healthy lifestyles at a young age is important and anything I can do to help support that I will.”

“This is an honor, it means a lot to me to see a worth-while organization encourage our youth to be physically and mentally active. I hear their sports programs are second to none. I hope this dinner affords more opportunities for their continued success,” said Edwards.

With the addition of NASCAR drivers David Ragan and Carl Edwards the Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County expects this year’s dinner to generate more revenue and exposure for their program than in years past.

“We are thrilled to have such talented athletes agree to participate in our event,” said Development Director of the Boys & Girls Club, Mike Blackwelder. “It has been increasingly difficult to raise money in the current economy. We are confident that this event will help bring additional revenue to the Club to help support its vital programs.” The dinner is scheduled to start at 5:30p.m., with the formal program beginning at 6:15 p.m. The night’s message will focus on healthy life styles for children, something that Carl Edwards, David Ragan and the Boys & Girls Club feel strongly about.

The It Just Takes One Dinner generates a significant amount of revenue for Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County. The event begins with a buffet-style dinner served with help from Keystone Club members, followed by a program featuring guest speakers, updates on the Club, and entertainment from Club members.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Lexus LFA to Take on the 'Ring  
EPSOM, UNITED KINGDOM: Lexus is heading back to the legendary Nürburgring this spring to challenge for glory in the 24 Hours endurance race with its LFA supercar.

It will be the first time the production LFA is seen in full-blooded competition, taking on one of the world’s most challenging circuits in a marathon test of speed, handling and durability. In two previous outings in the event, development versions of the LFA were raced primarily to help hone performance and handling. This time the LFA will line up as a prime challenger in standard production car guise.

It’s a formidable proposition: with its advanced, lightweight composite construction and 552bhp mid-mounted V10 engine, it will reach 62mph in just 3.7 seconds and race on to a top speed beyond 200mph.

Gazoo Racing will prepare and field the two LFA in the event, which takes place from 13 to 16 May. Led by Toyota master test driver Hiromu Naruse, the team will include four Japanese and three German drivers who between them boast outstanding GT and endurance racing experience.

Takayuki Kinoshita is a six-time winner of the Super Taikyu Endurance Series and has competed more often and finished higher (fifth overall) at the Nürburgring 24 Hours than any other Japanese driver. Akira Ida was overall winner of the Tokachi 24 Hours in 1995 and 2007, and both Juichi Wakisaka and Kazuya Oshima have recorded consistent success in Japanese Super GT 500 and GT 300 competition.

The German team members are Armin Hahne, winner of the Spa 24 Hours in 1982 and 1983; Jochen Krumbach, who finished second overall in the 2008 Nürburgring 24 Hours; and Andre Lotterer, Super GT 500 champion in 2006 and 2009.

Lexus SC 430 and IS 350 return to Japanese Super GT series Lexus will defend its clean sweep of driver and team championships in Japan’s premiere racing series this year.

The SC 430, powered by a 3.4-litre V8 engine, will again contest the GT 500 class, fielded by five teams and piloted by an international line-up of drivers. These include Richard Lyons from Northern Ireland, who will pilot one of the Lexus Team Zent Cerumo cars. A single IS 350 will contest the GT 300 competition.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Honda Recalling 410,000 Minivans and Trucks  
More than 410,000 Honda Odyssey minivans and Element pickups could have a braking problem and are being recalled, the automaker announced Tuesday.

The recall includes 2007 and 2008 model vehicles.

In a statement, Honda urged motorists who own the affected cars to take them to a dealer for repair, saying failure to do so could lead to problems stopping the vehicles.

Officially, the recall is to modify the Vehicle Stability Assist modulator. Honda said it has received customer complaints of brake pedals that feel "soft" or that gradually exhibit a pedal height that gets lower (closer to the floor) before the vehicle stops. In affected vehicles, this condition tends to very slowly increase over time.

"Some VSA modulators were assembled in a manner that could allow air intrusion, making it possible for air to enter the modulator during the VSA self-check mode.," Honda said in a statement. "While only a miniscule amount of air can enter the system during each check, over a period of months or years, the air will accumulate and can result in the soft brake pedal or low brake pedal condition symptoms associated with this issue. Although not all vehicles being recalled are affected by this issue, we are recalling all possible units to assure all customers that their vehicles will perform correctly."

Honda said it is announcing this recall to encourage all owners of these vehicles to take their vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification from Honda that their vehicle is affected. Notification to customers will start at the end of April.

Once owners of these vehicles receive written notification of this recall from Honda, they should contact their authorized Honda dealer to schedule an appointment for repair.

Source : http://www.consumeraffairs.com (3/16/2010)

Lexus LFA to take on the 'Ring  
Two production Lexus LFA supercars are to compete in Germany's legendary Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race this coming May.

The LFA will take on one of the world's most challenging circuits in a marathon test of speed, handling and durability.

It will be the first time the production LFA is seen in full-blooded competition.

In two previous outings in the event, development versions of the LFA were raced primarily to help hone performance and handling.

This time the LFA will line up as a prime challenger in standard production car guise.

With its 552bhp mid-mounted V10 engine, the car can reach 62mph in just 3.7 seconds and race on to a top speed beyond 200mph.

Gazoo Racing will prepare and field the two LFA cars in the event, which takes place from 13 to 16 May.

Led by Toyota master test driver Hiromu Naruse, the team will include four Japanese and three German drivers with significant endurance racing experience.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (3/16/2010)

Honda takes this whole dog thing very seriously  
Honda Japan's oddly compelling and inherently fascinating Honda Dog website includes useful consumer tidbits such as a visual guide to how well your poodle will fit in the CR-Z's front passenger seat. (Before you start yelling how it's the only passenger seat, know that in Japan, the CR-Z is a 2+2.)

That's not all, however. There's stuff to entertain as well, including a whole page of desktop wallpapers featuring Hondas with various dogs that you can find below. Seriously. Vintage stuff, too. Civic RS with a Corgi? Prelude with a Doberman? All present and accounted for. Check out a few samples in the gallery below, and head to the Honda Dog wallpaper site for even larger sizes.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

BMW Adds Lifestyle and Exclusive Editions to Enhance the Benchmark 3 Series Sedan and Touring Ranges  
MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA: BMW again lifts the benchmark for the premium compact sporting class with the announcement of two new model grades for the outstanding BMW 3 Series Sedan and Touring.

For customers of the four-cylinder 320i, 320d Executive and straight-six cylinder 323i, the standard specification model becomes the 320i Lifestyle, 320d Lifestyle or 323i Lifestyle.

For customers opting for the 325i or 330d, the standard specification is now the 325i Exclusive or 330d Exclusive.

Similarly the 335i Sedan or Touring becomes the 335i M Sport, while customers of the incomparable V8-powered M3 Sedan gain the option of the new Competition Package to further enhance their Ultimate Driving Machine.

Customers of all variants except 335i M Sport and M3 may option the Exclusive Innovations Package, or the M Sport Innovations Package to further tailor their purchase to meet their specific needs.

The Lifestyle editions add new features valued at up to $3,000 for a very modest actual pricing increase of $800, while the Exclusive Edition additions are valued at $500 but attract no price premium.

Lifestyle For the BMW 320i, 320d and 323i Lifestyle variants the additional equipment comprises: 17-inch light alloy wheels V-spoke 338, door sill finishers with “Edition” motif, Chrome Line Exterior package, and a chrome-finished decorative bar in the lower front apron.

The Manufacturer’s Recommended List Price for the new BMW 320i Lifestyle starts from $55,300, and both the 320d Lifestyle and 323i Lifestyle from $59,100. All prices are exclusive of dealer delivery and on-road costs.

Exclusive For the BMW 325i and 330d Exclusive variants, the additional equipment comprises: 17-inch light alloy wheels Star-spoke 339, door sill finishers with “Edition” motif, Chrome Line Exterior package, a chrome-finished decorative bar in the front apron, fine wood trim in Bamboo Grain, anthracite, and steering wheel inlay in Pearl Grey. For the Touring model the roof rails now have an attractive aluminium satin finish.

The Manufacturer’s Recommended List Price for the new BMW 325i Exclusive starts from $76,150 and the 330dExclusive from $90,150. All prices are exclusive of dealer delivery and on-road costs.

Exclusive Innovations Package For the 320i, 320d and 323i Lifestyle variants of the BMW 3 Series range, the optional addition of the Exclusive Innovations Package brings the same equipment as the Exclusive package added to the 325i and 330d, with the addition of Bi-Xenon headlights including headlight washer system, High-Beam Assist and Navigation System Business.

For the 325i Exclusive variant, the Exclusive Innovations Package adds the exterior mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function and electric folding, Bi-Xenon headlights including headlight washer system, High-Beam assist, Navigation System Professional and Voice Control. For the 330d Exclusive, the Exclusive Innovations Package adds Adaptive headlights and the harman/kardon Surround Sound System in addition to the features offered on the 325i Exclusive.

The Exclusive Innovations Package for all Sedan variants is priced at $4,100 and $4,300 for the Touring variants.

M Sport Innovations Package The BMW M Sport Package is now combined with the Innovations Package and for the first time is available on the BMW 330d Sedan or Touring.

For the 320i, 320d and 323i variants, the M Sport Innovations Package adds Bi-Xenon headlights including headlight washer system; High-Beam Assist and Navigation Business in addition to the usual M Sport trim features.

For the 325i, the M Sport Innovations Package adds the exterior mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function and electric folding, Bi-Xenon headlights including headlight washer system, High-Beam assist, Navigation System Professional and Voice Control.

For the 330d, the M Sport Innovations Package adds Adaptive headlights and the harman/kardon Surround Sound System in addition to the features offered on the 325i M Sport.

The BMW M Sport Innovations Package is priced at $8,700 for 320i, 320d, and 323i based variants and $8,900 for the 325i and 330d based variants.

Paint choice Alpine White is the sole non-metallic offering of the new range of BMW 3 Series Sedan and Touring models, with a selection of metallic finishes available, comprising: Titanium Silver, Black Sapphire, Bluewater, and Space Grey available across all models.

Montego Blue, Platinum Bronze, Deep Sea Blue, Tasman and Vermillion Red are not available with the M Sport Innovations Package, while Le Mans Blue is exclusively available with the M Sport Innovations Package.

Interior Trim All models are finished in Dakota Leather available in a variety of colours: Grey, Beige, Oyster/Black, Red Brown/Black, Saddle Brown/Black or Black.

Standard dash and door trims are Black high gloss for the Lifestyle variants and Fine-wood trim Bamboo Grain, Anthracite is standard for the Exclusive variants.

Trim options comprise Fine-wood Burled Walnut (not Lifestyle), Fine-wood Walnut, Light, and Aluminium, Fine.

335i M Sport The new standard specification for the BMW 335i Sedan and Touring models now includes the M Sport Package.

The MRLP of the new BMW 335i M Sport rises by $3,000 compared to the discontinued variants, and is now $110,800 for the Sedan and $115,200 for the Touring. All prices are exclusive of dealer delivery and on-road costs.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Toyota being sued for full refund of recalled vehicles  
"When we talked with Toyota owners, they all voiced the same desire – to drive the car back to the lot, hand them the keys and pick up a check." So says Steve Berman, a lawyer from Seattle who has filed a class action lawsuit against Toyota on behalf of "dozens" of owners in Arizona and Washington. Fat chance, right?

Not so fast, answers Berman. "Fortunately, we think the law allows for exactly that solution, and we are asking the courts to make it happen." While this isn't nearly the first class action suit filed against Toyota since revelations of the car's possible tendency to accelerate out of control, it is the first such case that seeks a full refund for each car sold.

According to The San Francisco Chronicle, most such suits are only seeking to get back around $500 per owner, or roughly the amount Kelley Blue Book believes the average Toyota has lost in resale value due to allegations the vehicles are unsafe. That would equal more than $3 billion. Berman's suit, though, could add up to many times that amount if successful.

Even if Berman's would-be class action suit fails, Toyota may be in for more rough times courtesy of the Attorneys Toyota Action Consortium (ATAC), which is adding racketeering claims to a number of its lawsuits. Northeastern University law professor Tim Howard, who is coordinating the ATAC, says, "It's become increasingly apparent that Toyota profits were not built on quality products, but on a willful pattern of deception, fraud and racketeering."

In any case, a group of federal judges in San Diego will meet in one week to determine whether the 110 or so class action suits against Toyota should be combined into one single case and whether that case should proceed to trial. We'll be watching.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Bajaj Electricals to focus on ‘energy efficiency'  
Bajaj Electricals hopes to cash in on the security and energy consciousness of commercial establishments.

The company has a distribution agreement with Securiton, a group company of Securitas of Switzerland. Most Swiss banks, army installations, airports have Securitas products such as fire alarms and security systems.

Bajaj Electricals also has a marketing and tie up with Delta Controls of Canada for its integrated building management systems (IBMS) and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

“The focus is on energy efficiencies and optimising utilities usage. Delta Control is a company which is very strong in IBMS and HVAC,” said Mr R. Ramakrishnan, Executive Director, Bajaj Electricals.

Moreover, Delta products are based on vacnet technology, whose software allows “communication” among building utilities, irrespective of the make of each one of them. It is an open source that does not tie down a client with a single integration module. If the services rendered by a chilling plant vendor are unsatisfactory, the plant can be replaced with another manufacturer's product.

Bajaj will be competing with majors such as Siemens, Honeywell and Johnson Controls in this segment. The distribution deal is structured in such a way that it allows Bajaj to localise some accessories at a later date. In three years, this segment has the potential to rake in Rs 100 crore, he said.

New Chain

The company has commissioned a new compact fluorescence lamp (CFL)-making machine at Nashik-based Starlite's plant in which Bajaj has 32 per cent stake.

Starlite has a CFL-making chain from GE Hungary, which produces 2400 CFLs per hour. With the second machine, Bajaj, which makes T3 CFLs – the slimmer and energy efficient range of CFLs – is exploring opportunities to export lamps to Europe.

Starlite's annual production capacity is 40 million CFLs. “This year we expect CFL turnover to touch Rs 70 crore and in the next fiscal Rs 110 crore,” he added.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (3/16/2010)

Renault-Nissan hints tie-up with Ashok Leyland for new car project  
CHENNAI: Renault-Nissan strongly hinted on Tuesday that it might partner with commercial vehicle major Ashok Leyland (ALL) to produce a new passenger car which will be positioned between its ultra-low-cost car project (ULC) with Bajaj and the v-platform ‘Micra’ car.

The alliance has been engaged in discussion with the ALL team, among other partners, earlier in the day. Renault-Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn said his company is working with ALL on the evolution of some common projects. He is in Chennai to inaugurate Renault-Nissan’s maiden greenfield car plant in India at Oragadam on Wednesday.

On the new car, Mr Ghosn said it has not reached any conclusion yet with its active "alliance partner" ALL. However, he ruled out any tie-up with Bajaj for this project as the latter had its "hands full" with the ULC car project.

When contacted by ET, Bajaj Auto MD Rajiv Bajaj said "I don’t know what’s on their mind as we haven’t discussed the project."

On the ULC tie-up with Bajaj, Mr Ghosn said "it will not be assembled in Chennai plant," he said, noting at every emerging market (India, Russia, China and Brazil) had an entry point as far as pricing is concerned. It is yet to reach negotiation stage at the contract level but the two were working together to develop this car.

The car derivative would not only be for India market but also for other emerging markets, Mr Ghosn said in response to a query.

Seeking to point out that Micra is coming at a "very important" segment, the B+ market, which constitutes over 50% of the Indian market, he said below Micra, there is room for many other products (in the B, A and A- categories).

On Logan and its pact with Mahindra & Mahindra, the Renault-Nissan CEO said it is not satisfied with the evolution of Logan. This input has been shared with Mahindra and both are now working towards "repositioning" Logan and making it a success in India. "We have to be a bit more nimble and faster in the market," Mr Ghosn said, adding it had not yet reached any conclusion with its partnership with M&M.

"Logan will be competitive and stay in the Indian market and consumers will be served," he said, adding the product would sustain its "normal life-cycle."

Asked about an equity-swap deal with Germany’s Daimler, Mr Ghosn dismissed it as speculation.

India, in our opinion, is one of the largest markets in the world, with a potential to cross 5 million to 6 million mark. Considering this huge potential, the car industry is also moving globally from West to East and North to South to India. "We will use Indian resources to be competitive in the global market by producing products that are performance driven," he said, adding such products would be fine-tuned to the local market.

To a question on the introduction of new cars, he said the Chennai plant would have a capacity to produce 2 lakh cars, which would be put to use "latest" by 2012. The next step would be to reach the 4 lakh mark by 2015, for which the infrastructure is being built, Mr Ghosn said, highlighting the significance of local manufacturing, local sourcing and introducing extremely competitively priced products suited for the market.

On equity tie-ups, his response was trust was the crucial factor to collaborate. "We are not in favour of a casual encounter between two car manufacturers. We are open to anything that would be of service to our strategy.. and work on a way to solidify for long-term relationship," he said, adding apart from serving the Indian market, the multiplicity in partnerships offered it scope to learn frugal engineering and churn out big output with small investments.

Source : Economic Times (3/16/2010)

European new-car registrations up 3% in February  
FRANKFURT (MarketWatch) -- New passenger car registrations in the European Union rose 3% to 974,346 in February compared to the same month a year ago, the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association said on Tuesday. Registrations in Germany tumbled 30% in February, but were offset by gains in other major markets. Under the continued influence of government fleet renewal incentives, France recorded 18.2% more registrations in February, Italy posted an increase of 20.6%, the U.K. -- 26.4%, and Spain -- 47%. New registrations of cars made by Volkswagen AG /quotes/comstock/11e!fvow (DE:VOW 75.40, 0.00, 0.00%) /quotes/comstock/11e!fvow3 (DE:VOW3 70.13, 0.00, 0.00%) dropped 2.2% in February, while those of PSA Peugeot Citroen /quotes/comstock/24s!e:ug (FR:UG 21.88, +0.35, +1.60%) rose 18%. Registrations of cars made by France's Renault SA /quotes/comstock/24s!e:rno (FR:RNO 34.33, +0.76, +2.26%) surged 30%. GM Group registrations fell 7.5%.

Source : http://www.marketwatch.com (3/16/2010)

Tuner Special: Abt R8 GT R  
GENEVA — Abt Sportsline has an exclusive tuning treatment for the Audi R8 V10 that adds an impressive 95 hp to the stock R8.

Officially called the Abt R8 GT R, the vehicle is loaded with 620 hp. Performance enhancements include a sports exhaust system, a suspension with adjustable dampers and a ceramic brake system with upgraded brake pads. Thanks to those modifications, the Abt R8 now sprints to 60 mph in less than 3.2 seconds (down from 3.9 seconds) and tops out at an impressive 201 mph.

The tuner cut weight with the use of a carbon-fiber hood, front and rear bumpers, adjustable rear wing, mirrors, door panels and even the trim outline on the rear end. The side windows are made of a lightweight polycarbonate called Makrolon. The look is finished off with a set of 19-inch Abt CR Superlight wheels wrapped in Michelin Sport Cup tires.

Interior goodies include Recaro racing seats, a four-point seatbelt system, a stainless steel roll bar, a handheld fire extinguisher and an Abt steering wheel made of carbon fiber. The tuner will also throw in a pair of Abt driver overalls, a helmet, racing shoes and gloves.

Abt plans to build only 25 units of its R8 GT R.

Source : http://www.insideline.com (3/16/2010)

Zero Motorcycles Launches 2010 Product Line With Four Industry Leading Electric Motorcycles  
SANTA CRUZ, CA: After a breakthrough year in which it became the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, Zero Motorcycles announced today the highly anticipated launch of its 2010 product line, including the Zero S, DS, X, and MX. With added power, increased acceleration, and enhanced power pack technology, Zero Motorcycles is continuing the innovation it's known for and taking electric motorcycle technology to the next level.

The street legal models are equipped with performance enhancements that allow for higher top speeds and greater acceleration. The entire lineup also features improvements in power pack technology and color graphics for the first time. The 2010 product launch makes Zero Motorcycles the first and only electric motorcycle company to launch four distinct models worldwide.

"Zero Motorcycles continues to blaze the path for electric motorcycle technology. Our engineering team has revamped, redesigned and tested four models that have considerable improvements for 2010. The result is more power on the street, a new look and an unparalleled riding experience," said Gene Banman, CEO, Zero Motorcycles. "Demand in 2009 pushed us to aggressively expand our presence across the United States and around the world. The enhancements to this year's models will resonate with both serious riders and casual motorcycle enthusiasts on a global level."

Among the most significant advances on the 2010 Zero S and DS is the revolutionary Z-Force(TM) Air Induction System. A platform for performance, this system allows Zero to produce more horsepower from lighter and more compact motors by increasing the airflow through the heart of the motor. Zero is also introducing a new throttle technology that modulates the increased power to provide riders with exacting control over the acceleration. All 2010 motorcycles are powered using Z-Force(TM) power pack technology with new and more precise cell monitoring. The cumulative result of all this technology is a longer power pack life, more power, greater acceleration off the line and superior handling.

In addition to the increased performance capabilities, consumers now can choose between color graphic packages or Zero's classic white on all four models, allowing riders to express themselves through personalized styling. New seat configurations are also an option for the 2010 Zero S and DS. Specially designed by Corbin, the new seats provide a more comfortable and performance-oriented ride. Those interested in reducing the stand over height of the motorcycle can now select a Corbin low seat option. The entire product line continues to be built from the ground up using Zero's signature exposed aircraft grade alloy frame.

Zero S Instant torque and power from a standstill, plus smooth acceleration as you race out of turns -- all without ever needing to stop at a gas station. Developed to aggressively take on urban environments and encourage the occasional detour, the Zero S electric motorcycle integrates revolutionary technology with innovative motorcycle design. Built from the ground up using Zero Motorcycles' proprietary Z-Force power pack and aircraft grade alloy frame, the Zero S features an industry leading power-to-weight ratio that increases its range and maneuverability. At 270 lbs, the Zero S has a range of up to 50 miles and a GPS verified top speed of 67 MPH. The Zero S is designed for optimal performance off the line, in sharp turns and while navigating obstacles. Instant acceleration and lightweight design enable the Zero S to take on any city street, hill or obstacle, combining exhilaration with efficiency.

The Zero S is priced at $8,995 (after a 10% U.S. federal tax credit). Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero S comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

The Zero DS combines innovation with passion to deliver the world's most versatile electric motorcycle. Created to be agile in the dirt and quick on the street, the Zero DS represents a new kind of freedom. Tough when you demand it and distinguished when required, the Zero DS has an edgy, yet sophisticated appearance highlighted by an eye catching twin spar frame that is both rigid and lightweight. Powered by the most advanced drive train in the industry, the Zero DS is a fully electric motorcycle that can handle any surface you can throw at it. Navigating obstacles and maintaining control is assured using a specially developed suspension system and a rugged wheel set. During technical maneuvers an optimized direct drive gear system delivers astonishing responsiveness with the twist of your wrist.

The Zero DS is priced at $8,995 (after a 10% U.S. federal tax credit). Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of April. The Zero DS comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Zero MX The Zero MX takes Zero's revolutionary electric motorcycle technology to the track. Designed for bigger jumps and smooth landings, the Zero MX uses a newly-developed suspension system to absorb aggressive terrain. Incredibly tough and lightweight, the Zero MX combines the state-of-the-art Z-Force(TM) battery technology with an ultra-light frame design, making it agile and fast where it counts most. The custom suspension system makes the Zero MX highly responsive while maintaining an industry leading power-to-weight ratio, allowing for controlled landings and total control. An individual power pack provides up to two hours of track riding time. Easily swappable, riders can purchase an additional power pack to extend their riding. Incredibly powerful, while almost completely silent, the Zero MX opens up a whole new world of riding possibilities.

The Zero MX starts at $8,295. Some countries or states may offer incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero MX comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Zero X With instant acceleration and a total weight of 151 pounds, the Zero X is a high performance electric motorcycle that takes technical trail riding to the next level. Using Zero's patented Z-Force(TM) technology and boasting 50 ft-lbs of torque, this stealthy motorcycle will send you racing up hills, flying over jumps, and cutting through streams. The Zero X is built from the ground up for quick handling and maneuverability. Custom valved suspension, direct drive gearing and weight optimized components allow riders to master demanding terrain. Lightweight, silent and quick, the Zero X opens up trail riding possibilities that would otherwise be out of the question. To extend ride times customers have the option to purchase an extra power pack that can be swapped with a quick pit stop.

The Zero X starts at $7,495. Some countries or states may offer incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero X comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

The Zero S and DS models are eligible for a 10% federal tax credit and tax rebate. Some states offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available for those who qualify.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

IRS Grants $4,000 Tax Credit for Ford Focus CNG Car  
ASHEVILLE, NC: Altech-Eco Corporation of Asheville, North Carolina announced today that they have obtained an approval from the Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service for the first Year-2010 Ford Focus ever to receive a $4,000 Federal Income Tax Credit designation to those who purchase it, because it operates exclusively on compressed natural gas (CNG) and meets the most stringent exhaust emissions standards.

“The EPA has already issued a Certificate of Conformity for this “dedicated”

“The EPA has already issued a Certificate of Conformity for this “dedicated” (all natural gas) vehicle, and now the IRS has approved a $4,000 Federal Tax Credit to be immediately available to any purchasers of this exciting alternative energy vehicle”, said Miles George, Vice President of TransEco Energy, the parent of Altech-Eco Corporation, who received the approval notice.

“Households, municipalities and businesses alike love the 2010 Ford Focus, and now Americans looking to help the environment by purchasing this all natural gas version can be rewarded with an IRS-approved $4,000 Tax Credit, meaning they can lower their 2010 Federal Income Taxes by $4,000 just by purchasing it”, George stated. “To date, no company in the world has ever received a $4,000 Federal Tax Credit designation from the IRS for an all natural gas passenger vehicle except for one Honda model. Today we are proud that an American owned-American operated company like Altech-Eco has achieved this extremely rare designation”, stated George.

The 2010 Ford Focus natural gas vehicle is converted from gasoline to all natural gas operation by Altech-Eco Corporation, an EPA-Designated Small Vehicle Manufacturer (SVM). The company is not yet a publicly traded company. The vehicle can be purchased directly through participating Ford dealerships, or through Altech-Eco and selected vendors.

Altech-Eco has previously announced that it has already received the EPA certification for its 2010 Ford Focus bi-fueled (gasoline and natural gas) conversion, and its 2010 Ford Transit Connect bi-fueled and dedicated conversion. By using Altech-Eco’s EPA approved CNG alternative fuel conversion system, citizens in the United States will have the option not only to help the environment but also to significantly reduce dependency on foreign oil, and simultaneously receive a $4,000 Tax Credit from the IRS through their purchase of the Altech-Eco converted 2010 Ford Focus CNG car. Those interested in Altech-Eco’s already EPA-certified conversion systems, its 2010 Ford Focus CNG conversion, or the Tax Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Seoul Unveils Wirelessly Charged Electric Vehicle  
SEOUL -: A wirelessly charged electric vehicle went into service March 9 at the Seoul Grand Park in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology President Suh Nam-pyo attended a ceremony unveiling the vehicle held at the Park.

Known as on-line electric vehicle (OLEV), the vehicle powered by electricity from an electrical charging strip planted about 5cm under the road surface, is in pilot operation at the theme park. The Seoul Grand Park has replaced the shuttle trains (called "elephant train") that run on diesel with the eco-friendly OLEV.

The OLEV developed by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) is charged wirelessly over a 400-meter long stretch of electrical strip and runs an additional 400 meters on the charged battery. The special electrical strip creates a magnetic field that generates magnetic force. The magnetic force is sent wirelessly to the vehicle and converted into electricity, which is then used to power the vehicle. At the Seoul Grand Park, the OLEV will service a 2.2 kilometer-long circular route.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government made the decision to deploy OLEV at the Seoul Grand Park last August even as KAIST was developing the prototype of the electric vehicle. The first OLEV was built and the electrical strips were laid in January. Numerous safety evaluations and test runs to improve efficiency have been conducted since then.

Tests have shown that the magnetic field used in the system poses no health risks. By using segmentation technology that provides electricity in sections, the amount of magnetic field generated is minimized. During a month- long test run in February the magnetic field generated was measured at below the international standard of 62.5mG, the city said.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to introduce OLEVs as part of its public bus transportation system. With buses responsible for meeting about 30 percent of the transportation demand and median bus lanes in place in 25 areas totaling 90.2 kilometers, wirelessly charged electric buses are an attractive green alternative for Seoul.

The KAIST-developed OLEV is commercially viable because of the lighter battery required and because it does not require an extended standby time for charging. One of the achievements of the KAIST team is the highly efficient charging system despite the 13cm gap between the road surface and the vehicle. In fact, many countries have shown interest in the OLEV development as commercialization of similar vehicles failed in the United States and elsewhere.

The city, which is pioneering the use of green cars in the country, believes the OLEV is a solution to Seoul's traffic problems. The city government plans to lay the foundation for the introduction of OLEV this year. Projects for this year include deciding the routes and building charging stations. In an effort to improve air pollution and curb greenhouse gas emissions, the city plans to deploy green cars in all its public transportation systems, including taxis and buses, by 2020. The city government's fleet of official cars will also be replaced by green cars.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Rookie De Silvestro Impresses In Her Debut  
Indianapolis,: Team Stargate Worlds/HVM Racing rookie Simona De Silvestro was disappointed, yet upbeat after her debut on the streets of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The Swiss driver qualified 11th in her No. 78 Team Stargate Worlds/HVM car and narrowly missed the five-car wreck at the start. But her car suffered a flat right-rear tire after running over debris during the full-course caution.

She re-entered in 13th, and,by Lap 18, had been relegated to the 17th spot, as she had a full load of fuel to contend with. Her fortune would change when another yellow flag came out, allowing De Silvestro to gain the lead with the call to stay out.

She was the first to lead in a debut race since Graham Rahal at St. Petersburg in 2008. De Silvestro soon found herself fighting with Ryan Hunter-Reay and Dario Franchitti for the lead.

Their battle came to an end when the skies over Sao Paulo opened up, forcing all drivers back to their pits for rain tires. De Silvestro stayed out, but unfortunately the pits would close for another full-course caution, which forced De Silvestor to stay out on the racetrack for six laps.

After the half-hour red flag period, De Silvestro came back out but was once again bitten by bad luck. She began to experience rear suspension problems causing her to take a trip back to the pits for lengthy repairs. After losing three laps, she returned to finish in 16th place.

"Despite the rear braking problems and the different things that happened during the race, it was a real good experience," said De Silvestro. "I think we can be pretty competitive during the year. Now we just have to continue to work real hard and I'm sure we'll go in the right direction."

Team principal Keith Wiggins was satisfied, while sharing his driver's disappointment with the result.

"We started off pretty good, obviously, and we got into a pretty good position and looked very strong," he said, "but it went a bit against us when the rain came and the pits closed. It went downhill from there. It's a bit of a disappointing finish considering she was doing such a fantastic job."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

TruSpeed to Campaign Three Porsches In 2010 SCCA World Challenge GT Series  
COSTA MESA,: The competition in the World Challenge GT Championship heated up dramatically today when TruSpeed Motorsports announced that it will field three Porsche GT3 Cup cars in all 12 races this year. Rob Morgan of Ladera Ranch, Calif. and Patrick Lindsey from Santa Barbara, Calif. will drive 2008 Porsches while Charles Morgan, who hails from Dallas, Texas, will drive a 2010 model.

TruSpeed, the premier source for air-cooled Porsches in the United States, is the sponsor of Rob Morgan's car, while Charles Morgan's car will promote PrivacyStar, an application for Blackberries that provides users with a comprehensive privacy solution for unwanted calls. Patrick Lindsey's car will be sponsored by TruSpeed, Horton Autosport and Sloan Securities.

TruSpeed has been an important team in professional sports car racing for more than 30 years. The Morgans have owned two NASCAR teams and they each have class victories in the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona. Rob Morgan's name is also familiar to SCCA Trans-Am and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series fans. In IMSA GT, Charles Morgan is ranked third in the all-time driver point standings, and he has two class victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring too. He and his son also won Grand-Am's AGT team championship in 2002.

Patrick Lindsey is moving into the World Challenge GT series from its sister division, Touring Car. He ran a full season in Touring Car in 2008 and had four Touring Car starts in 2009, recording two top-five finishes and two top 10s in a Mazda prepared by Horton Motorsports. He also ran in seven NASA American Iron series races in 2009, scoring two victories and four podium finishes.

TruSpeed competed in a handful of World Challenge races last year before making the decision to field a multi-car team in the series in 2010.

"We liked the series and the format, and with some changes and adjustments, we're looking forward to the new season," said Rob Morgan. "Last year Toyo tires were new to us, so now we have learned how to adjust and make the most of them. We're also going with a new Penske shock package that we think will help us.

“We will also benefit from data sharing by bringing Patrick into the mix. Patrick and I are racing to win; our goal is to be in the top three in the point standings at the end of the year."

Lindsey was guardedly optimistic.

"This will be my first time in a Porsche and my first time in GT so we have some obstacles to overcome, but we do expect to do very well,” Lindsey said. “It's a very talented group, and I think we're going to work well together. The collaboration between Horton Autosport and TruSpeed will yield some good results."

The series consists of 12 races at eight venues. The team is especially looking forward to the Long Beach Grand Prix, April 16-18, since it's near its home base.

"The TruSpeed transporter will be featured inside the Convention Center, and we'll have a big display," Morgan said.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Computer Works to Sponsor Nemechek's Nationwide Entry at Bristol  
NEMCO Motorsports and Computer Works have agreed to a one-race deal to feature the Knoxville, Tenn. computer chain on Joe Nemechek's No. 87 Chevrolet in Saturday's (March 20) NASCAR Nationwide Series race at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.

Computer Works has two retail stores in the Knoxville area and can be found online at www.cworksonline.com.

In last year’s Nationwide event at Bristol, Nemechek led twice for 12 laps, en route to an 18th-place finish. This season, Nemechek is 22nd in the Nationwide points standings, coming off back-to-back top-25 finishes in Fontana, Calif. and Las Vegas.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)

Drink drive myths exposed  
One such example was the recent high profile case of rugby legend JPR Williams, who tried to get away with drink driving by putting a penny under his tongue.

Clearly, that didn't work. So breathalyser manufacturer Alco Sense has taken a look at the urban myths, to see if they have any scientific basis.

'Strong coffee to stay awake' is shattered first - only time will rid your body of alcohol. Caffeine in coffee cannot keep you alert and restore judgment.

While it's true that body size can affect in the rate alcohol is absorbed, individual metabolism, the amount of rest you had and when you last ate are key factors.

Holding your breath before the test will actually have the opposite effect and make your breath reading falsely high.

Likewise, hyperventilating before the test is out, simply because the Police are wise to it and will talk to you for a few minutes beforehand to make sure you haven't got the chance to do this.

And finally, swilling lots of water is a waste of time - a breathalyser measures the content of alcohol in the air in your lungs and contrary to popular belief has nothing to do with your stomach or urine.

Although water before bedtime should certainly help alleviate tomorrow's hangover.

Currently the legal UK drink drive limit is 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood (0.8%) or % 0.08 Blood Alcohol Content (BAC).

Only time will reduce a body's BAC. So other myths like cold showers, exercise, fresh air, vomiting, tablets or home remedies can be discounted.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (3/16/2010)

Officially Official: Volkswagen establishes R brand  
Ever since Volkswagen pulled the wraps off of the Golf R and Scirocco R, it was rumored that the automaker would be creating a separate R division, solely focused around creating new performance models, as well as special design packages. The new company, Volkswagen R GmbH, will take on the responsibilities of developing, implementing and selling R-badged products henceforth.

By making R GmbH its own separate division, we'd expect to see more R-badged products hitting the streets in the near future. The new Passat CC R-Line is already on sale in Europe, and the rumormill is buzzing about a possible Jetta R, previewed by the New Compact Coupe concept at this year's Detroit Auto Show. The Golf R is expected to arrive in North America next year, and we sincerely hope that R GmbH delivers more products our way shortly thereafter.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com/ (3/16/2010)

Are radioactive cosmic rays to blame for unintended acceleration?  
Could cosmic rays from space be to blame for Toyotas that uncontrollably speed out of control? Could such cosmic rays put you in danger of becoming a bright orange superhuman rocky man-Thing? These are the questions that a number of researchers are suggesting need a closer look to see if electronic glitches could be the root cause of Toyota's unexplainable rash of unintended acceleration.

Before you dismiss the cosmic ray theory, consider that the issue has been known since the 1950s, and airplane and spacecraft manufacturers design in safeguards that triple-check all data as a defense from such interference from space. Later, in the 1970s, researchers found that small amounts of this radiation does indeed make it down to the surface and can cause problems with small electronics like cell phones and computers.

For its part, Toyota responded to requests for comment from The Detroit Free Press that its electronics "are not the same as typical consumer electronics. The durability, size, susceptibility and specifications of the automotive electronics make them robust against this type of interference." Sounds like Toyota isn't buying the cosmic ray explanation.

Apparently, there's just one sure way to know if there's any legs to the issue of cosmic rays causing unintended acceleration, and it involves placing errant vehicles in front of particle accelerators and showering them with radiation. It seems that there are a number of firms that can perform such tests, but it remains to be seen if Toyota will make its vehicles available – and, we assume, write out a rather large check – for such testing.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Toyota's top NA exec reportedly declines invite to appear before Canadian gov't.  
It would seem that once was enough for Toyota North America President Yoshimi Inaba. Just weeks after the top Toyota executive went before a congressional hearing in the United States, The Globe and Mail is reporting that Inaba has turned down a similar invitation to appear before the Canadian government. The topic of conversation? Why, the massive Toyota recall efforts and safety, of course.

Officials for the Harper Administration in Canada are expressing a great deal of disappointment at the apparent snub, with Merv Tweed, the Conservative MP chairing the Toyota committee, going so far as to say that Inaba's no-show would amount to a slight to the Canadian government and people, suggesting that Toyota perceives that the "American market is more important."

The Canadian government reportedly plans to once again request that Inaba attend its hearings. If Toyota refuses the request, parliament could issue a subpoena to Inaba, though the Toyota executive neither lives nor works in Canada, meaning he could potentially avoid the summons by keeping out of the country entirely.

For its part, Toyota Canada claims it does not report to Inaba and notes that CEO Yoichi Tomihara and managing director Stephen Beatty will attend on behalf of the company.

UPDATE: Despite continuing to insist that Toyota North America President Yoshimi Inaba has no responsibility for matters regarding recall and safety issues in Canada, Toyota has relented and Inaba will appear before the Parliament of Canada today.

Source : http://www.autoblog.com (3/16/2010)

Vauxhall launches cut-price trims  
Vauxhall has launched cheaper versions of many of its models.

The new Expression and ES models are up to £3675 less expensive than the previous cheapest version.

The maximum headline saving is with the Zafira Expression, which now costs from £14,995 - a saving of £3675.

Most of the newcomers come with less equipment. You'll have to do without air-conditioning in the Zafira, for instance. The only exception to this is the new ES Insignia, which is £1700 cheaper, but comes with upgraded wheels and MP3-compatible stereo system.

All of the Expression and ES cars are available for a limited period in solid white or red.

Source : http://www.whatcar.com (3/16/2010)

Petrol prices to hit record high  
Petrol prices could reach a record high of £1.20 a litre in the coming weeks, according to the AA.

The big hike in prices has been blamed on increases in the wholesale price of fuel since January.

Darling urged to postpone duty increase Chancellor Alistair Darling has been urged to shelve a planned 3p a litre rise in fuel duty that's due to come in on April 1.

With the average price for a litre unleaded petrol currently at just over £1.15, next month's duty rise could push the cost at the pump to £1.20 – equivalent to £5.40 a gallon.

Families pay £50 extra a month Figures from the AA reveal that the average petrol bill for a two-car family has shot up by £52 a month over the past year, to £245 a month.

The AA's president, Edmund King, said: ' The UK is barely out of recession, yet petrol prices threaten to rise to record prices seen during the boom of 2008 - shortly before the collapse into recession.

'If families, drivers on fixed incomes and those on low pay were unable to cope with record prices then, they are even less likely to do so now.'

Petrol prices are a 'complete disgrace' While the wholesale price of oil has increased over recent months – it is currently around $80 a barrel – it is nowhere near 2008's record highs of $147, the last time that fuel prices nudged £1.20 a litre – and just before the economy crashed into recession.

Lindsay Hoyle, Labour MP on the House of Commons business committee, said: 'Crude oil has gone up this year, but nothing like the rise in petrol prices. Motorists are being legally mugged at the forecourt by petrol companies.

He called the price a 'complete disgrace'.

Source : http://www.whatcar.com (3/16/2010)

Seat's Dedicated Fleet Centre Is Open For Business  
MILTON KEYNES, UNITED KINGDOM: As part of its ongoing ambition to become a fleet manufacturer of choice, SEAT has just opened a national dedicated Fleet Business Centre.

The new facility, designed to work as an extension to the SEAT UK Fleet and Business field sales team and dealer network, has been established to further improve customers’ experience of dealing with the brand.

Promising a first class level of customer service while developing relationships with both new and existing clients, the new centre will help ensure that customers and prospective buyers feel confident that service is a top priority for SEAT.

Offering phone and online support, the new centre is also designed to make SEAT’s burgeoning fleet and business sales operation easily accessible. Operating as a first port of call, the centre lets SEAT fleet and business customers get the latest information quickly and simply.

Providing everything from brochures, pricing information and technical data to sales meeting appointments and demonstrator bookings, the investment in the new business centre is another clear indication of SEAT’s renewed focus on its fleet operations.

SEAT UK National Fleet Sales Manager, Sally Livingstone, said: ‘The opening of our new Fleet Business Centre is another major step forward for our fleet and business operation.

‘Our customers are, of course, our top priority and I firmly believe that this important investment should significantly enhance their experience in dealing with the team here at SEAT.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (3/16/2010)