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California Autos Examiner

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Americans getting back to work: Chrysler's Warren Truck Assembly reopens


Chrysler assembly line workers report back for duty as Warren, Michigan plant reopens

Certainly there are mixed feelings about the bailout of automakers, but no matter your opinions, seeing these folks able to get back to work is a feel good moment.

This edited feature highlights workers returning to the Chrysler Warren (Michigan) Truck Assembly Plant on June 29, 2009. This video features assembly line scenes, soundbites from plant manager Ken Brune, head of North American assembly operations, Frederick Goedtel and team leaders Jud Corby and Kim Parrish.

The Warren facility has not made any trucks since May 1, 2009.




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NUMMI no more! General Motors decides that Fremont, CA facility does not fit with 'New GM'


I think GM is going to leave me!

Recently GM announced that Pontiac Vibe production was ending by no later than August of this year. At the time of the announcement, GM stated "GM and Toyota remain in active discussions regarding potential future production at NUMMI." Today GM announced that there will be no future GM products produced at New United Motor Manufacturing Incorporated. Toyota has not yet issued a statement on what it plans to do with the extra capacity.

The Fremont plant, NUMMI, was a joint venture between Toyota and GM. In the past, NUMMI has assembled the 1985-1988 Chevrolet Nova and the 1989-1997 Geo / Chevrolet Prizm for GM.

"As part of its long-term viability plan, General Motors has decided that its ownership stake in the New United Motor Manufacturing Incorporated (NUMMI) joint venture with Toyota will not be a part of the 'New GM’. After extensive analysis, GM and Toyota could not reach an agreement on a future product plan that made sense for all parties. Accordingly, NUMMI will end production of vehicles for GM in August, and there are no future GM vehicles planned for the joint venture at this time.Given that, GM believes it is in the best interest of the ‘New GM’ and its stakeholders that we place our ownership interest in NUMMI in 'Old GM’. We have enjoyed a very positive and beneficial partnership with Toyota for the past 25 years, and we remain open to future opportunities of mutual interest.”

Anyone remember when Elaine tried to sweet talk Newman into something by calling him Newmie (or NUMMI in this case)? I'll admit that it is a stretch, but it is Monday, when not have some fun with it?

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Monday, June 29, 2009

When filling up your gas can, don't forget about your car

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Photos from military deployment




There pictures were posted by an old high school acquaintance. I have have selected a couple of the photos to share because I thought they were quite impressive. Much respect to all those serving in our armed forces!

photo source: kevin ginter/facebook

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Aston Martin lowering its iQ?


There is nothing swan-like about the Aston Martin Cygnet

Bleary eyed and without caffeine, I stare at the morning Twitter and RSS traffic. What great automotive news has developed overnight? Then I see this nugget: Aston Martin and Toyota team up on micro car. Yeah, right...Nice one. I suppose that Jeff Goldblum really is dead as well, right?

I Google the story and lo and behold, WSJ has picked it up.

There are even quotes from Aston Martin officials such as Aston Martin Chief Executive Ulrich Bez, "Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this first bold step to embark on this special project -- made possible with the support of an organization of Toyota's stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ."

Further digging reveals a press release on Aston Martin's website. That seals the deal for me, now I have to report on it.

I suppose the Cygnet would be like fitted luggage for an Aston Martin owner: you buy a DBS, DB9 or Vantage and tick a box to add a Cygnet to your order (no a la carte orders of the Cygnet will be allowed). However, this story still seems like the ultimate April Fool's joke.

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Sunday, June 28, 2009

Fiat 500: Will four versions on offer sell Americans on small car?


Fiat 500 is being cute enough?

For years, small cars have been like bran cereal for most U.S. buyers: They'll buy them when then really have to, but as soon as they get regular again, it's buh, bye!

As an example, Honda sold 53,299 Civics in May of 2008 and only 17,302 in December of 2008, that's around a 67% drop. Granted there were other factors at play, but the economic meltdown doesn't explain the entire drop, lower gas prices had a lot to do with it.

As I reported yesterday, Fiat will offer at least four versions of its 500 for American buyers to choose from. Will that kind of selection prevent a rapid rise and fall like smart has experienced? Fiat would much rather emulate MINI which has cultivated a profitable niche for its relatively expensive, small cars here in the USA.

If Fiat can position the 500 as a lower cost MINI competitor, its stand to reap tremendous benefits: Not only through direct sales, but also through dealership traffic. A small car like the 500 is never going to sell in huge numbers here in the States, but it can act like a drop of honey attracting buyers that will ultimately drive off with another Chrysler product.

If nothing else, the Fiat 500 will signal to Americans that the reinvention of Chrysler has begun. Even though the 500 won't be labeled as a Chrysler, it will be the first obvious mark of the company's new Italian overlords. For that reason alone, the importance of the Fiat 500 in America cannot be overstated.

For more info: Read the author's other posts on Fiat.
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Win a Honda Civic Si Coupe (6/30/09)


Have you ever heard of the band All-America Rejects? I haven't, but that didn't stop me from entering their sweepstakes for a new Honda Civic Si Coupe. The band has tricked out the coupe to their "specifications," so I'm a bit nervous about that, but a free car is a free car!

Click here to enter the Honda Civic sweepstakes.

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Saturday, June 27, 2009

Obama tries to sell the Buick Enclave



President Obama tried his hand as at comedy at Radio & Television Correspondents Dinner and I have to say, he has pretty good delivery. Fast forward to the 10 minute mark to catch this zinger "I have no ambition to run an auto company. I'm not the salesman in chief and GM will rise or fall on the quality of its products like the taut, athletic design of the new Buick Enclave. Its French-seamed leather and warm wood tones make the Enclave more than transportation, it's a modern driver's retreat. C'mon work with me here, I've got cars to move people!"

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Quattro Cinquecento! Fiat to sell four versions of 500 in North America starting in 2011


Eccellente!
The hot Fiat 500 Abarth looks to be headed to the U.S.

Chrysler will offer not just one, but four versions of the Fiat 500 starting in 2011: a hatchback, convertible, station wagon and the sporty Abarth version of the hatchback. If that wasn't enough for you, a fifth model, an AWD crossover, is also a possibility. This information comes from Automotive News reporter Luca Ciferri who confirmed the plans with Roberto Giolito who is head of styling for the Fiat brand.


Bella lina! The 500C is a beauty!
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Ford Fiesta Movement agent meets Eleanor


Agent 21 behind the wheel of a Ford Fiesta

I am continually impressed with the quality of work that Fiesta Movement agents are pumping out. For little more than the price of a car rental, Ford is getting expansive social media coverage of its 2011 Fiesta produced by very creative people. What's not to like?

You might recall my interview series with San Francisco Fiesta Movement agent White Menace that I conducted last month. Today I highlight another agent, Burbank's Brittani Taylor (AKA Agent 21). In the embedded episode below, Brittani takes her Fiesta over to Cinema Vehicle Services to check out the life of a Hollywood car coordinator.

The embedded clip below doesn't really focus on the Fiesta (no pun intended), but it does keep it the back of your mind. In this clip, Jerry Bruckheimer's Shelby GT500 Eleanor from the movie 'Gone in 60 seconds' makes an appearance. Overall the clip is pretty silly, but I enjoyed it. In my opinion this is grassroots marketing done right!








For more info: Check out my interview with the Fiesta's brand manger.

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Friday, June 26, 2009

Do you have $24,995? How about a GMC Terrain


2010 GMC Terrain ponders its options in life

If you have a bumper sticker that says "Boxy does it best!" then this is the crossover for you! General Motors has taken pains to separate the Terrain from its sister vehicle, the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, but as your high school synchronized swimming coach may have told you: different doesn't mean better.

“The Terrain allows us to build on the evolution we started with the Acadia, applying the distinctive styling and capabilities that have always been a part of the GMC DNA to smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles that customers are seeking in today’s rapidly changing market,” said Susan Docherty, GM North America Vice President, Buick-Pontiac-GMC. “We think Terrain is a bold statement of GMC’s key role within the reinvented General Motors.”

Both the Terrain and Equinox present a lot of value for the money with a nice compliment of standard features. The Terrain comes with a backup camera as standard on all of its models, a commendable decision and one that I wish all manufacturers would follow . Besides the camera, is the Terrain's unique styling worth a $1,810 premium over the Equinox? That is a question only you can answer.

For more info: Visit gmc.com

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Thursday, June 25, 2009

Farewell Farrah



Here's a classic Farrah Fawcett commercial for the 1975 Mercury Cougar!

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Festivus for your Soul? Foster your inner Seinfeld with the 2010 Denim Kia Soul


2010 Denim Kia Soul

Who can forget the classic 'The Strike' episode of Seinfeld with the 'two face' girlfriend, Festivus and the 'Denim Vest' character who took Elaine sub sandwich punch card? Relive those memories with the special edition 2010 Denim Kia Soul!

Kia Motors America today rolled out the first all-new special edition for the Soul model line, the 2010 Denim Kia Soul, a unique iteration of the popular urban passenger vehicle that further emphasizes Soul’s cutting edge style and youthful, fun character. Matched with impressive fuel economy and safety features standard on all models, the special-edition Denim Soul provides consumers with even more personalization options.

“Denim Soul incorporates edginess and confidence,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. “It illustrates our commitment to fresh design, even on a vehicle that’s been in the marketplace only a few months, and it’s the first of more special editions to be offered in 2010 for the recently introduced Kia Soul.”

Exclusive to the Denim Soul is a unique denim exterior color, striking white side-view mirrors with matching white 18-inch alloy wheels, front fender turn signal indicator lights, a wing-type rear spoiler and a bold off-set white racing stripe completing the rally-inspired look. The Denim Soul is based on the Soul+ model and is fully loaded with the Audio Upgrade Package (center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music), an iPod connection cable for full functionality via the radio head unit and steering wheel controls, carpeted floor mats, moonroof and fog lights all included for this special edition.

The special edition Denim Soul starts at $17,300 with a five-speed manual transmission, and $18,250 with an automatic.

Denim Soul builds from the Soul+ model, which offers standard keyless remote entry, privacy glass on the rear and rear side windows, body-color door handles and dual body-color power side mirrors along with 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55R16 tires. Soul+ offers additional standard features including cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth® hands-free connectivity, dual 12-volt power outlets and tweeter speakers, all enhancing creature comforts on the road, as well as a covered upper storage bin, dual visor vanity mirrors with covers and dual map lights. Black cloth seats are adorned with Soul logo inserts, further personalizing the cabin.

About the Kia Soul

Designed by Kia Motors’ Southern California-based design team, Soul is currently on sale at dealerships across the United States and has already been recognized as a “Best Value” by the Texas Auto Writers Association and by Ward’s Autoworld for its “Interior of the Year” list. Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,300 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950. Enhancing to the Soul! or Soul sport offers a price beginning at $16,950.

A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is paired with either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission and is standard on Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport models. The engine produces 142 horsepower with 137 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy offers a thrifty, fuel-sipping 24/30 mpg for both the automatic and manual transmissions², better than the Scion xB.

Offering plenty of standard features, the Soul trim offers a chrome-accented grille, clear lens auto-off headlamps, solar glass, black door handles and side mirrors, body-colored front and rear fascias with black inserts, black bodyside molding, rear wiper/washer, variable intermittent windshield wipers and 15-inch steel wheels fitted with P195/65R15 tires.

Passengers will find comfort in the Soul’s roomy cabin that offers 40.2/39.6 inches of headroom (front/rear), shoulder room of 55.2/55.1 inches, 42.1/39.0 inches of legroom and a passenger volume of 102.3 cubic feet, more spacious than the Scion xB.

Soul’s interior design is decidedly influenced by the car’s highly specified audio system.

An uncluttered dashboard with a three-dial instrument cluster, LCD illumination and floating center stack design is the key visual feature and offers enticing access to the AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service³. Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks also are in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable.

Additional standard interior features include air conditioning, tilt steering column, power door locks, power windows with driver’s side auto-down, external temperature display and digital clock in the radio, an upper storage bin, dual-level glove box, 12-volt power outlet, rear window defroster, cargo area light and a dome light with delay out. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat offers multiple seating and cargo arrangements depending on driver and passenger needs.

Standard Kia Safety Features

Soul continues to offer the same high level of standard safety equipment as all Kia vehicles, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags. An Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) also are standard. Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard on all Soul models, making for a comprehensive list of standard safety features.

For more info: Visit kia.com

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Wednesday, June 24, 2009

2010 Mustang opens the eyes of blind man


Roger Keeney behind the wheel

With the warm Arizona wind pelting his forehead and his entire body vibrating from the mighty roar of the engine, Roger Keeney took a brand new 2010 Ford Mustang convertible on an amazing ride, doing donuts on the pavement and amassing speeds of up to 90 mph.

This would be a thrill for anybody but what makes this truly remarkable is that fact that Keeney has been blind for the past 20 years.

Sixty-two-year-old Keeney, who lives in Athens, Ga., won the chance to drive the new 2010 Mustang by participating in "The '10 Unleashed" promotion, which asked people to describe their ultimate Mustang dream experience in 250 words or less. A video diary chronicling his extraordinary ride will be featured starting today at www.the2010mustang.com.

"When I got the phone call from Ford saying that I had won, I thought someone was playing a joke on me," said Keeney, who lost his sight in a farming accident.

It was definitely not a joke, says Ford Car Communications Manager Patricia Piedrahita.

"Without a doubt, his essay caught our attention," she said. "His submission hinted that he may be blind, so we had to talk to him to learn more. Upon speaking to him we knew he would help us see the Mustang from a different point of view."

On May 7, 2009, Ford flew Keeney down to the expansive Ford Proving Grounds just outside of Phoenix, Ariz. With safety their number one concern, the Mustang team arranged for former professional racer Tommy Kendall to ride shotgun in the car.

"Tommy said, 'When you were a teenager, did you ever do donuts?' And I said, 'Yeah.' So I got it rolling a bit in first gear, cranked it hard to the left and revved it up and popped it and did three donuts before we stopped. When we stopped, we could hear the camera crew cheering from clear across the field. I was in awe of both the car and the experience, it was truly a dream come true."

"The most life-changing thing you can do for folks with disabilities is put them in a situation that everyone else has told them is impossible. The experience for me in the Mustang with Tommy Kendall next to me and driving that wonderful automobile was really great," Keeney added.

For more info: The rush and exhilaration of Keeney's dream come true is brought to life through the video chapters available for viewing at www.the2010mustang.com.
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Live shots of pre-production Chevrolet Volt


Pre-production Chevorlet Volt with Chief Engineer Andrew Farah
Chevrolet Volt Vehicle Chief Engineer Andrew Farah takes the first pre-production Chevrolet Volt for a drive Tuesday, June 23, 2009 in Warren, Mich.


Pre-production Chevorlet Volt with Chief Engineer Andrew Farah

Chevrolet Volt Vehicle Chief Engineer Andrew Farah takes the first pre-production Chevrolet Volt for a drive Tuesday, June 23, 2009 in Warren, Mich.


Plug it in! Chevrolet Volt's charge port
Chevrolet Volt Vehicle Chief Engineer Andrew Farah plugs-in the first pre-production Chevy Volt after a test-drive Tuesday, June 23, 2009 in Warren, Mich.

Fitting of the battery pack into the Chevrolet Volt

The first production-intent Chevrolet Volt is fitted with a lithium-ion battery pack at the General Motors Pre-Production Operations (PPO) building in Warren, Michigan Wednesday, June 3, 2009. The battery pack is a technologically-advanced component of the vehicle with more than 200 lithium-ion cells, sophisticated computer controls, liquid cooling system and other components. About 80 production-intent Chevy Volts will be assembled at PPO, which serves as the birthplace of all GM pre-production vehicles before they are manufactured in a plant.


Command in Chief gets a tour of the Volt

General Motors President and CEO Fritz Henderson and other GM executives get a closer look at the first pre-production Chevrolet Volt Wednesday, June 24, 2009 in Warren, Mich.


Everyone gathers around the Volt!
General Motors President and CEO Fritz Henderson and other GM executives get a closer look at the first pre-production Chevrolet Volt Wednesday, June 24, 2009 in Warren, Mich.
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Lexus pays for 'Friends' Therapy


Kudrow in character as Fiona Wallice

Lexus, via its broadband channel L Studio, is launching another season of Lisa Kudrow's "Web Therapy." In the series Kudrow plays Fiona Wallice, an online therapist of unspecified credentials, who operates a three-minute therapy practice as a way to “cut to the chase.”

In season two, Fiona Wallice returns to face the dissolution of her marriage and two potential criminal investigations. While offering the same self-indulgence and snap judgments portrayed in season one, Wallice deals with a cast of patients including Alan Cumming, Steven Weber, Julie Claire, Dan Bucatinsky, Victor Garber and Friends alumna Courteney Cox.
Kudrow, who recently won a Webby Special Achievement Award for her outstanding comedic performance in “Web Therapy,” once again teamed up with her partners at Is or Isn’t Entertainment - Dan Bucatinsky, (“The Comeback”, “All Over the Guy”), and Don Roos, (co-writer of “Marley and Me”, and director of the upcoming feature, “Love and Other Impossible Pursuits” starring Natalie Portman).
“‘Web Therapy’ allowed me to work with some incredibly talented people on a project that provided rare creative freedom,” states Kudrow. “The ability to write, produce and act in a Web series with such high production value is incredibly rewarding. I’m thrilled to partner with Lexus again to deliver a second season to our LStudio.com fan base and a new audience through additional online channels.”
All of season one’s 15 unique webisodes can now be viewed on LStudio.com, YouTube and Hulu and will also be available with season two on iTunes June 29.
“We’re very proud to premiere the second season of this award-winning series on LStudio.com,” states Dave Nordstrom, Lexus vice president of marketing. “LStudio.com is an ongoing initiative to create an online media destination that showcases high-quality, thought-provoking content. We’re now happy to announce a greatly enhanced site, as well as a new initiative to share content with an even broader audience through YouTube, Hulu and iTunes.”
For more info: Visit L Studio's website.
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Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Cha-Ching! Ford, Nissan and Tesla expected to receive advanced technology government loans


According to Associated Press sources, the Energy Department will announce on Tuesday that Ford, Nissan and Tesla will be receiving loans from a $25 billion fund setup to help the development of fuel-efficient vehicles. GM and Chrysler have been excluded from the first round of funding because of a stipulation that the loans only go to "financially viable" companies. Although the program is not limited to electric or hybrid technologies, all three companies have electric vehicles either in production or in the works.

The loan program was created in 2007 legislation but not funded until last fall. According to the official rules of the application process, the loans are intended to help with the costs of reequipping, expanding, and establishing manufacturing facilities in the United States to produce advanced technology vehicles, and components for such vehicles. These vehicles must provide meaningful improvements in fuel economy performance.

Energy Secretary Steven Chu is scheduled to make an official announcement on the loans in Dearborn, Michigan.

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Monday, June 22, 2009

Remember me? Toyota Prius commercial ranks number one in most-liked new TV spots


Third generation Prius commercial is a hit with TV viewers.

Toyota's “Harmony Between Man, Nature and Machine" marketing campaign for its third generation Prius has yielded a winner. In the number one ranked spot, a white Prius drives through landscape of people dressed as plants, water, and clouds. Nielsen IAG ranked the commercial number one as the "most-liked" new TV advertisements. Only new ad executions, aired during the weeks of May 4 to 31, 2009, were considered. The Prius commercial was about 70 percent better-liked than the average new commercial.

If you like the song, "Let Your Love Flow," featured in the commercial, you can download the full length version by clicking here.

You can watch the winning commercial in this YouTube clip below. Beneath the commercial video is another segment that shows a "behind the scenes" look at how they made the innovative spot.













For more info: Read this Advertising Age article.

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Chat with GM executives about quality


2009 IQS chart provided by J.D. Power and Associates.

If you have the time to check it out, GM will be offering the opportunity to join Vice President of Quality for GM North America Rick Spina on Monday, June 22 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time for a one-hour live chat to discuss quality and GM’s results in J.D. Power and Associates’ 2009 Initial Quality Study. Two of GM's brands, Cadillac and Chevrolet, ranked above the industry average for problems per 100 vehicles.

You can join the chat by clicking on this link. If you miss the live chat, you can read a transcript after the event is over at the same link.

Please note: This article is only a link to the live chat. Questions posted in the comments section of this article will not be read by GM officials and will only result in your frustration. If you have specific concerns about your GM car, here are the phone numbers to call:

Buick: 1.800.521.7300, Cadillac: 1.800.458.8006, Chevy: 1.800.222.1020, GMC: 1.800.462.8782, Hummer: 1.866.486.6376, Pontiac: 1.800.762.2737, Saab: 1.800.955.9007, Saturn: 1.800.553.6000

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Sunday, June 21, 2009

Finally a ray of light: GM recalls 900 workers back due to increased demand


Buick Enclave

General Motors has taken its lumps as of late, but GM told about 900 workers today that they were headed back to work due to rising demand for the Buick Enclave, Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia crossover vehicles. The large crossovers have proven to be very successful for GM as they arrived into a burgeoning segment. The company correctly sensed that demand was dropping for minivans, a product it never excelled at making, and put its efforts behind the crossovers. In addition to the trio of models made at the Delta Township plant in Lansing, Michigan, GM also manufactures a sister vehicle called the Chevrolet Traverse at its Spring Hill, Tennessee facility (which formerly manufactured Saturns). The company has decided not to shut down the Spring Hill plant the week of August 8 because of an increase in demand for the vehicle. However, GM will be shuttering the Tennessee plant and moving production for the Traverse to Michigan as part of its cost cutting measures.

For more info: Read this Detroit News article.

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Saturday, June 20, 2009

How does Chrysler / Fiat solve the Avenger / Sebring problem?


The stunning Chrysler 200C EV concept

I remember when I first saw the Dodge Avenger: It was at the Paris auto show. I was in town to visit my mother-in-law and couldn't resist the opportunity to catch a major international exposition. After a few minutes of looking at the Avenger, it became clear that I could easily resist this mid-size sedan. Where the 300C had made waves on the show circuit, the Avenger couldn't manage a ripple. A drive in the Avenger months later would confirm things, the Avenger and Sebring were not competitive cars. One automotive scribe went so far as to say that the new Sebring was actually a step backwards from its predecessor. No manufacturer wants to hear criticism like that!

Enough about the past. So much has happened since these sedans were released that its not even worth trying to write a recap. We're at the dawn of a new era and it is time to think about the future. Fiat does have offerings in Europe, the so-called "Evo" platforms, that could spawn new Chrysler models. However, as many a manufacturer can tell you, European models don't always play well to American crowds. Just ask Ford about its Contour or Mazda about its previous generation Mazda6. Most European designs have to be pulled and stretched like taffy to enlarge them to American standards. Fiat simply isn't sure that its platforms, even if enlarged, can satisfy Americans. What to do? Well, using an Opel platform now appearing to be off the table, so the product teams must continue to rummage around the corporate cupboards to find something else.

According to Automotive News, one idea on the table is to manufacture a variant of the 200 C EV show car from this year's Detroit show. In case you are not familiar with that design, it is a stunning sedan based on a shortened version of the Chrysler 300's RWD LX platform. I remember my first encounter with the 200 C EV. It was on the last press day of the Detroit show. I was walking around in my usual last day stupor when all of a sudden my eye caught a glimpse of a stunning sedan. I felt like Jack Nicholson's Joker in the Batman movie when he saw Vicky Vale, "Stop the presses! Who is that?"

Could a rear wheel drive mid-size sedan compete with a herd of front wheel drive competitors? With looks like the 200 C EV, priced competitively and with an AWD entry, I say absolutely! Hopefully Chrysler and Fiat product teams can see the wisdom of such a unique entry and will not be tempted to meddle with its design.

For more info: Check out my January post on the 200C EV

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Friday, June 19, 2009

Schwarzenegger's plane makes unscheduled stop

Apparently the Governator's plane had some smoke coming from the cockpit. Gov. Schwarzenegger played down the issue, tweeting that it was "A little adventure."

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General Motors loses its Vibe: Pontiac Vibe a goner by the end of August 2009


2009 Pontiac Vibe

The Toyota Matrix will soon lose a sister as GM will cease production of the Fremont, CA assembled Pontiac Vibe by no later than the end of August. The Fremont plant, NUMMI, is a joint venture between Toyota and GM. In the past, NUMMI has assembled the 1985-1988 Chevrolet Nova and the 1989-1997 Geo / Chevrolet Prizm for GM. GM and Toyota are not yet commenting on what vehicle might replace the Vibe.

Direct from the GM press office:

As part of its long-term viability plan and recent decision to phase out the Pontiac brand, General Motors has decided to discontinue production of the Pontiac Vibe by the end of August 2009. The Vibe is produced at the New United Motor Manufacturing Incorporated (NUMMI) facility jointly operated by GM and Toyota in Fremont, California. While no replacement for Vibe production has been determined, GM and Toyota remain in active discussions regarding potential future production at NUMMI.

For more info: Visit Pontiac.com
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Thursday, June 18, 2009

Would proposed NHTSA tire labeling rules unfairly ding high peformance tires?


If tires are graded on categories where high performance tires usually do not excel, how would this impact sales? My full report over at TopSpeed.com.

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Ford interviewed by 'a Lexus'


Yes, folks, I played a little trick with the headline. Bill Ford Jr is interviewed by Alexis (not a Lexus) Glick of Fox News channel. We don't get any shocking revelations here, but Ford is certainly has the upper hand on his hometown competition when it comes to public perception and it shows in his interviews.

Ford talks about his current ride, a 2010 Taurus, and his hopes for a more certain future for gasoline prices. Ford also reiteratives the belief that his company has enough liquidity to ride out this economic maelstrom.

Ford has made a commitment to being a fuel economy leader in every segment in which it competes. In each interview that I have had with Ford staff, fuel economy is always on the tip of their tongue. If Ford can continue work its magic with EcoBoost, PowerShift and fledgling technology like the ethanol boosting Bobcat engine then things certainly look bright.

As covered in many previous posts, Ford has the Fiesta arriving next year and a new Focus will be appearing shortly as well. Both of these cars promise to be attractive, fuel efficient and sporty. My concern for Ford is its Lincoln division (Mercury is a non-starter right now). I simply have not seen any stand out models from that division as of late and that's a crime because the RWD LS showed such promise. The FWD/AWD MKZ has never properly replaced the LS and I find the brand's signature bow-wave grille to be heavy handed.

Enjoy the interview!



For more info: Visit Ford's website.
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Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Want to test drive a Mahindra diesel pickup?


2009 Mahindra four-door truck

Pickups and diesel engines go together like donuts and coffee. Sure you can enjoy them separately, but aren't they better together? In the U.S., your diesel pickup options have been limited to full-size trucks with full-size price tags.

Indian manufacturer Mahindra wants to shake things up with a small, diesel powered pickup that will be as easy on your wallet as it is easy on fuel.

Now you can get a sneak peak by signing up for Mahindra's cross country tour. Before you even ask, the website does not list where the tour stops will be. Also, and perhaps more troubling, there is no privacy statement on the site, so all bets are off when it comes to your information. One would hope that they'll do the right thing and not spam you to death, but to be safe I'd recommend caution. Note that all they require is your name, e-mail and zip, so don't give them more than they demand. More than likely they will use early hand raisers to plan the tour route, so it does make sense to sign up.

While the exterior might look funky, the interior is supposedly being reworked to suit American tastes. The pickup is supposed to be available in the U.S. by the end of the year and the diesel WILL be 50 state legal.

For more info: Thanks to Truck Trend and Pickuptrucks.com for the heads up.
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Louisiana vehicle plant confirmed as V-Vehicle Co. Will use former Guide plant in Monroe

More details to follow. As reported on the News-Star Twitter page, we now know that the new Louisiana plant is going to manufacture cars for a company called V-Vehicle. The News-Star goes on to report that Tom Matano, who designed both the first and second generation Miatas, will be design director at Monroe plant.

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Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Good egg? Koenigsegg Group AB looks to purchase Saab


Koenigsegg CCX and Saab Aero-X Concept

General Motors sent out a press release today stating that a planned acquisition of Saab by a a consortium led by Koenigsegg Automotive AB would secure Saab's future, is expected to close by the third quarter of this year, includes an expected $600 million funding commitment from the European Investment Bank (EIB) guaranteed by the Swedish government and includes plans to launch several new products that are in the final stages of development.



Koenigsegg CCX and Saab Aero-X Concept

This last piece of the press release is very critical. Saab is about to replace its ancient 9-5, launch a 9-3 variant called the 9-3x and produce a new crossover called the 9-4x. If Saab is to maintain any momentum, it must continue with this launch schedule reasonably intact. While it is safe to assume to the 9-5 and 9-3x will arrive in the not so distant future, less has been said about the 9-4x although presumably it is still set for production.


Koenigsegg CCX and Saab Aero-X Concept

“This is yet another significant step in the reinvention of GM and its European operations,” said GM Europe President, Carl-Peter Forster. “Saab is a highly respected automotive brand with great potential. Closing this deal represents the best chance for Saab to emerge a stronger company. Koenigsegg Group's unique combination of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and financial strength, combined with Koenigsegg's proven ability to create world-class Swedish performance cars in a highly efficient manner, made it the right choice for Saab as well as for General Motors."

Koenigsegg was founded by Christian von Koenigsegg in 1994. The company makes high-performance sportscars in very limited numbers. The company's headquarters is in Angelholm, in southern Sweden, using an aircraft hangar that once housed Swedish airforce Gripen fighter jets made by defense group Saab AB.

For more info: Check out Koenigsegg on Wikipedia. Visit Saabs Unlimited (where I found the above photos) for enthusiasts' take on the acquisition.

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Prius not enough? Take a tour of the Lexus HS 250h


2010 Lexus HS 250h

"They don't want people sitting inside the car, sir." So was my introduction to the new Lexus dedicated hybrid the HS 250h. Could they have gotten more h's in the name? Jeesh.

All kidding aside, the representative at the Detroit show was a nice enough guy. For some reason he didn't turn off the the motorized turntable display, so both the car and myself were spinning around like a Ronco Showtime rotisserie oven. To make matters worse, someone did a face plant on a similar rotating stage across the hall and made a loud thump. I didn't want to suffer the same fate, so I toddled along the side of the car like I was either new to my feet or eight drinks into things.

What did I think of the car? Well, I prefer a hatch to a trunk because you lose a lot of the car's functionality. I also happen to think the HS looks like a gussied up Corolla (which it isn't). The interior is classy, just what you'd expect from a Lexus. I have tried out the navigation system's controller, called Remote Touch, and it is quite intuitive to use.

I'm sure that the HS will attract buyers who either don't want to drive a "low-rent" hatch or are more comfortable in a Lexus showroom. Toyota has prepared a YouTube clip explaining some of the features of the HS 250h. Watch for Hollow Man's wife to make an appearance. Enjoy!

For more info: Visit Lexus' website.







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2010 Lexus IS C overview video


2010 Lexus IS C

You may have caught one of the new Lexus commercials for its new IS convertible on TV. If you have and are intrigued about the car, this YouTube video featuring Lexus Vice President Mark Templin gives a quick overview of the all-new 2010 Lexus IS C.

The IS C features a three-panel roof that opens in just 20 seconds and is primarily constructed of lightweight aluminum. The front doors that are 11.8 inches longer than the IS sedans while rear seat comfort is enhanced by shifting seat position inboard, providing improved headroom.

The 2010 IS250C will have a MSRP of $38,490 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission; the IS250C with a six-speed automatic transmission will be $39,660. The IS350C will have a MSRP of $43,940. Tack on another $875 for delivery to each on of those prices.






For more info: Visit Lexus.com

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Monday, June 15, 2009

John McCain chooses Ford Fusion hybrid as next car


2010 Ford Fusion hybrid

No Model T jokes, just the straight up news that, according to his Twitter page, Senator John McCain has chosen a Ford Fusion hybrid as his next car. The next question comes to mind, "At which of his many houses will John park the Fusion?"

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Insight into sales forecast: Honda Insight may miss goals


When American Honda originally set sales targets for its Insight hybrid, 90,000 units seemed to be a doable number. Now gasoline is cheaper, the new Prius is a very competent foe and the state of the economy isn't helping matters. Now Honda says that sales between 50,000 and 60,000, roughtly a 30 percent cut, is more likely. This jives with an overall drop of 37 percent for the automotive market and a 35 percent drop in gasoline prices

Hoping to buck this trend is Toyota which is forecasting sales of 180,000 units of its Prius in the car's first 12 months.

For more info: Read this Bloomberg story for full details.
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State by state count of General Motors dealers closing


GM dealer count by state of those who have received letters from GM

Up until now, all we had was a total count of dealers with which GM had notified of its intent to not to renew franchise agreements. The plot thickens with an accounting of dealerships closing on a state by state basis. The source of this list is a GM document provided to House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.

There are some shocking numbers, especially when you calculation on a per capita basis. For example, Pennsylvania (est 2008 population 12,448,279) loses 90 dealerships while California (est. 2008 population 36,756,666) loses "only " 65 dealers for the entire state.

GM has gone about reversing its decision on franchise agreements for about 41 dealers so far. However, those 41 are out of a total of 2,100 while only 1,323 are accounted for in this list.

Total U.S. count = 1,323

Ala. 33
Alaska 0
Ariz. 11
Ark. 17
Calif. 65
Colo. 15
Conn. 11
Del. 2
D.C. N/A
Fla. 35
Ga. 24
Hawaii 2
Idaho 8
Ill. 66
Ind. 48
Iowa 46
Kan. 29
Ky. 23
La. 10
Maine 14
Md. 21
Mass. 29
Mich. 58
Minn. 39
Miss. 14
Mo. 38
Mont. 16
Neb. 21
Nev. 3
N.H. 6
N.J. 33
N.M. 10
N.Y. 60
N.C. 36
N.D. 6
Ohio 79
Okla. 17
Ore. 21
Pa. 90
R.I. 3
S.C. 24
S.D. 16
Tenn. 30
Texas 55
Utah 6
Vt. 8
Va. 26
Wash. 18
W.Va. 25
Wis. 50
Wyo. 6

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Sunday, June 14, 2009

Barrel full of furniture?



So you've got some extra barrels just laying about..What to do? What to do? I know! Lawn furniture. Well, what passes for lawn furniture at the my friend's house.

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Saturday, June 13, 2009

Car headlights, stripping and a game called 'Sex Me': Okay, I'm interested


Photo courtesy of mag3737 on Flickr

Counting burned out headlights. I remember that game! What I don't recall is taking off an article of clothing after I saw a 'dead eye.' So it seemed like a brilliant move for 23-year-old Joshua N. Sizemore and 18-year-old Amanda L. Madison when they came up with this variation of a time honored time waster. According to the participants, if you see a car with a headlight out, and if you yell "sex me!" first, the other person has to take a piece of clothing off.

Where the couple went wrong is when they decided to hurl rocks off a trestle, hitting cars in the process. That is a serious party foul. Why would you want wreck nudity or the potential for nudity with an act that can hurt other people? Well, the fun is over and Madison is being held on $50,000 bail while Sizemore is being held on $40,000 bail. Nice goin' kids.

If it makes you feel any better, Sizemore has since publicly apologized.

Story source: KOMO News, via Asylum.com via Buzzfeed.

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'Beer Car' doesn't make a lot of sense, but 'Beer Bike' does?


Beer bike photo courtesy of dutchamsterdam.nl

It would never occur to us to drive around down with one hand on the wheel and the other hand on a glass of beer. Okay, maybe it would occur to some folks, but thankfully they are few and far between.

For the Dutch, beer and bikes seem to go together. Sure, sometimes they crash, but in general they are pretty safe. The actual steering is handled by a driver and the beer pouring is covered by a bartender. As a customer, all you have to worry about is guzzling and pedaling.

That hasn't stopped some folks from calling for a ban. Would a beer bike get me out of my car and pedaling about town? A younger me would have said "Absolutely." In fact, a younger me would have already been on a plane to Amsterdam to check it out. Age has a way of tempering such enthusiasm, so my visit to Flickr is probably about as close as I'll get to beer biking anytime soon.

For more info: Check out beerbike.co.uk
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Forcheap? smart offers financing deal on fortwo


When the smart first arrived in the U.S., the demand was such that some early reservationists were earning thousands by flipping their cars on eBay. If you wanted a smart, you paid big bucks or waited in line.

Fast forward to 2009 where smart USA has created a 'smart express' program to handle orphaned cars and is now offering 4.2% financing to boost sales.

The fortwo has always struck me as an "extreme niche" vehicle. It's cute and has personality galore, but it also carries a lot of baggage--but yet lacks the ability to carry luggage, what cruel irony. What is this baggage I speak of? There is the clunky transmission (somewhat better for 2009), a 24 month warranty instead of the usual 36 and let's not forget it can only carry two people.

So is 4.2% enough rope in those buyers?

For more info: Visit smartusa.com
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Scion announces pricing for xD Release Series 2.0


xD Release Series 2.0

Scion announced that its final limited-production vehicle for 2009, the xD Release Series 2.0 (xD RS 2.0), will be available at dealer showrooms later this month. The 2009 xD Release Series 2.0 comes exclusively in Electric Wasabi green exterior paint and is also distinguished with unique interior modifications. The xD features a touch screen Pioneer Audio Visual Navigation (AVN) head unit with flash memory, voice recognition, and Bluetooth. For media player flexibility, the AVN unit comes with USB, SD card, and iPod connectivity. The Pioneer AVN head unit is also satellite radio, rear view camera and HD Radio ready and will play iPod videos when the parking brake is engaged. In addition, users can select from over 32,000 colors to customize the 5.8-inch high-resolution WVGA LCD touch-panel display. The driver can plan the perfect roadtrip at home by downloading the freeware application AVIC Feeds to a computer, making a personalized destination directory and then transferring the data to the headunit using SD card or USB memory device.


Dora won't need her pal Map with this Pioneer unit installed
Electric Wasabi accents the xD’s interior with four-in-one interior lights, and “Release Series 2.0” door sills illuminated with white back lighting. Silver accented seat fabric and individually numbered badging add to the vehicle’s uniqueness.
Release Series wheel covers also distinguish this limited production xD. A color-keyed rear spoiler will be available as an option.

You either dig the Electric Wasabi paint job or you despise it
Scion will only build 1,600 units of the xD RS 2.0. The xD RS 2.0 model will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,270 over the base price of the xD. The base MSRP for the standard xD with a manual transmission is $14,650, while the standard xD with an automatic transmission model carries a MSRP of $15,450. The available Electric Wasabi spoiler has a MSRP of $285, not including installation.
The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.
For more info: Visit Scion online.
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